New York City on a Budget

Free & Affordable Must-See Attractions 💸

A glass of money on a table.
New York / New York City on a Budget

This city already sounds expensive, without even being there. But there are plenty of budget-friendly options to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. We’ve made a list of the best things to do on a budget in New York City. Since we have lived here for a month we know some free and affordable options.

1. High Line Park

Location: Chelsea, Manhattan
Opening Times: Open daily from 7 am to 11 pm
Price: Free

The High Line Park is a unique elevated park built on a old freight rail line. It has great surrounding gardens, art walls, and seating areas making it a great place to relax. Most parks in New York are free for public.

2. Staten Island Ferry

A boat on the water in New York City. ferrt staten island

Location: Lower Manhattan
Opening Times: Operating 24/7, with departures every 30 minutes
Price: Free

For a budget-friendly way to see the Statue of Liberty and the skyline of Manhattan, hop on the Staten Island Ferry. This free ferry ride takes you across the New York Harbor, offering great views of the Statue of Liberty 🗽, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. Once you reach Staten Island, you can either explore this area or simply catch the next ferry back to Manhattan.

3. Museums

Guggenheim outside swirl museum new york

These amazing museums have pay what you wish options or even free access in some cases. Just visit the website and book in advance.

1. Guggenheim museum.

2. Whitey museum.

3. The Met for New York state residents.

4. 9/11 Memorial museum, Free Admission Monday tickets.

5. American Folk Art Museum.

4. Central Park

Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, central park free to visit in new york

Location: Manhattan, between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side
Opening Times: Open daily from 6 am to 1 am
Price: Free

Escape the concrete jungle and enjoy this green oasis, it will cost nothing. This park is filled with lakes, meadows and playgrounds. Rent a bike or have a picnic on the Great Lawn. Don’t miss all popular attractions.

5. Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn park bridge new york on a budget

Location: Connects Manhattan to Brooklyn
Opening Times: Open 24/7
Price: Free

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and enjoy the Manhattan skyline. As you cross the bridge, you reach DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) where you can (again for free ;)) relax at the park.

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Written by Niké

Going on a city trip is such an easy way to break away from the day-to-day life. I love to just wander around a city to feel its rythm and atmosphere. Each city has something unique to offer, whether its beautiful streets, museums or amazing food. In my city guides, I love to share some of my best tips to make your trip memorable.