Photo: Washington Square Park
I was asked to write a post on affordable things to do in NYC, as most people think it can only be done in a super expensive fashion. Living here for 4 years now, I can say we have a ton of fun things to do that are either free or inexpensive. Here are some of my personal favorites:
Cheap Eats:
Shake Shack- If you know me, then you know I love a good burger. This is the East Coast version of In and Out Burger. Upscale fast food featuring yummy burgers, french fries, amazing shake concoctions and even a Chicago dog. I like the one in Madison Square Park, where the squirrels will come to your table and snatch a fry.
Marmoun’s- The best falafel and shawarma EVER. I love the location on St. Mark’s Place. Quick, easy and delicious.
Prosperity Dumpling- This is literally a hole in the wall and a NYC staple, with amazing dumplings. 4 for a dollar!
Street Trucks- I started a food truck obsession back in LA, and it is a whole other ballgame here in NYC. Not only do you have your hot dog stands, falafel, shawarma and other NYC Staples, you can find American BBQ, Korean BBQ, Grilled Cheese, Tacos, Pizza, Lobster Rolls and so much more.
Culture:
Aimlessly wander the streets and explore the culture of city life. I have been to known to do this (sometimes not on purpose) and found such incredible hidden gems all over New York. A handful of places to wander: Central Park, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Time Warner Center, Little Italy, Chinatown, The High Line, Chelsea Market and West Village.
Seek out one of the many free museums in New York, or attend free days at some of the majors like Museum of Modern Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.
Check out discounted show tickets from insider app like Today Tix. See the most popular Broadway shows for much less.
Love art? Chelsea is known for its art galleries, and all exhibits are free. Check out westchelseaarts.com for exhibits and times. One of my favorites? The Emmanuel Fremin Gallery at 547 W 27th St #510.
Take a walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Once you get to the other side, explore Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Fun:
Love beer? Take a free tour of Williamsburg’s Brooklyn Brewery. On the hour from 1-5pm Saturday, 1-4pm Sunday. 79 N 11th St, Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Love TV? You can be part of a studio audience for free, and see some of your favorite stars up close and personal. Some shows taped in New York? Saturday Night Live, The Late Show with David Letterman, Jimmy Fallon and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Check http://www.nycgo.com/tv-show-tapings for all listings.
Love water? You can ride the Staten Island commuter ferry for free. Take in the views and do some exploring when you get to the other side.
History:
Want to learn a little about NYC history for free? Check out the Grand Central Partnership Walking Tours. The 90 minute tours are lead by two historians at 12:30pm every Friday. 120 Park Ave, at 42nd St, Midtown East.
Over 5 million tourists visit the gorgeous St. Patrick’s Cathedral each year. Check out the neo-gothic architecture and serene interior.
What to see the Federal Reserve? Take a guided tour, but make sure to plan in advance.
Transportation:
The subway system in NYC is really amazing, and you can go almost anywhere for the mere price of $2.50. During rush hour or rainy days, it is super hard to find a cab, so make sure you download Uber on your phone. They come right to you, have nicer cars and the drivers are super-friendly. Uber saved me my first year in New York from having a mental breakdown!
Hopefully this list will help keep you occupied in the big apple. If you have any others you would like to add, leave a comment below!
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