Contrary to popular belief, New York isn’t all pop-ups, shows, and restaurants where the only thing more outrageous than the wait is the tab you wrack up on the other side of it. In fact, you could pack a full itinerary with all the free things to do in New York City. You just need to know where to look. Craving a breath of fresh air? Head to one of the Upper East Side’s most beautiful, locally-frequented parks for pristine river views and perfect hidden corners for picnicking—or cross into the borough of Queens for an even more off-the-beaten-path outdoor experience. Looking to check out what’s new in the art world? Hit this downtown neighborhood to peruse the latest galleries, which also promise far less crowds than the city’s popular museums.
Whether scoping out the latest art exhibits or soaking up some sun by the ocean are more your thing, New York’s got a free-of-charge activity for every type of traveler out there. Curious? We’ve rounded up the best gratis activities that the city has to offer, here.
Read our full New York City travel guide here, which includes:
Every review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that activity. When choosing things to do, our editors consider landmarks and experiences that offer an insider’s view of a destination, keeping authenticity, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
