Free Things to Do in New York City

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in New York City

Best Free Things to Do in New York City

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    Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.
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    Highest rated attractions on Tripadvisor, based on traveller reviews.
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What travellers are saying

  • GreigM78
    2 contributions
    Just a fabulous place in a city that never stops. We spent a whole day just meandering through the park taking in the Woolmer Rink, Bethesda Terrace and the lake, all the way up to the reservoir and the oddly random Belvedere Castle.

    The park is bright and vibrant (and this was very early Spring) with musicians and artists dotted around, people and families just out for a walk in the air.

    All the while surrounded by the buildings and sky scrapers of an international city that is never out of eyeline but certainly out of earshot.

    The only downside is the horse/cart rides, they absolutely reek both as they stand at the park entrances and when they slowly pass you in the park!
    Written 21 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • charleyboy1955
    Nerja, Spain165 contributions
    This was a walk down memory lane for my wife and a first time for me. A great way to get some gentle exercise and fresh air. There was some maintenance going on which meant we could do the full walk but this did not lessen our enjoyment of the time. We saw guided tours although we chose to do it ourselves. We ended up near the City Winery on the Hudson so a great walk followed by lunch, a simple yet thoroughly enjoyable experience.
    Written 21 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Irina
    United States10,272 contributions
    Always fascinating, Manhattan Skyline has that powerful magnetism of a large, modern city architecture, rising up to the skies. That feeling usually doesn't depend on the weather -- the skyscrapers and high-rises just look more colorful in the sunshine, and darker on the overcast days.

    Regardless, they dominate the cityscape and stand out, symbolizing if you will, a strong character of New York City in general, and its fabulous Manhattan area, in particular. Even at a distance of dozens of miles, I could still see some famous historic sites - city landmarks, business and residential high-rises.

    Fantastic images, strong impressions, long-living memories.
    Written 17 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Wander53199833841
    3 contributions
    For me the most beautiful Sight in New York. Yes it is packed with tourists and little souvenirshops, but the view makes up for it! I even walked it twice in one day, one time during the sunny day, one time by night. I couldn´t choose which one i liked best!
    Written 21 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Rose R
    15 contributions
    If you're close, drop by Grand Central Terminal. It's a beautiful, functional place. But, don't go out of your way....
    Written 20 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Carlo Vazquez
    El Paso, TX5 contributions
    Broadway shows are a must-see when visiting New York City! The talent and energy on stage are truly electrifying, and the productions are a feast for the senses. From beloved classics to modern hits, there's a show for everyone. Our family was blown away by the performances we saw, and we loved the variety of shows available. Theaters are conveniently located throughout the city, making it easy to plan a night out. We also appreciated the safety measures in place to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Broadway shows are an iconic part of New York City's culture, and we highly recommend adding a show to your itinerary when visiting the city.
    Written 19 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jen B
    Olathe, KS59 contributions
    I feel like Times Square is something that everyone needs to see at least once. I took my college-aged daughter for a NYC trip and we went once during the day and once at night after a show. Practice your resting bi!tchy face and ignore everyone wanting money. I agree with other reviewers about legalized pot as well. It stinks everywhere. I really don't care if someone chooses to do it but I don't want to smell it at every turn. It is pretty disgusting and almost as bad as cigarette smoke.
    Written 15 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Traveller2023
    York, UK93 contributions
    Free ferry ride across the river. Floated as an alternative to the Statue of Liberty tour for views of the the statue, it doesn’t really go past close enough for that. The highlight is the view of Manhattan skyline. Not busy and way to get a good view.
    Written 19 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Joan A
    3 contributions
    From the second we walked in, we were greeted by Jo and Steven at the front desk......by name! It was my Granddaughter's Birthday, and she was presented with balloons, along with a couple special gifts from Jo and the staff. We were then escorted by Jo to our beautiful upgraded Jr Suite. Our room overlooked Bryant Park, which is my most favorite park ever. Bed was so comfy, large bathroom with a tub and shower and the room could not of been cleaner. Heater and hot water work great, no issues at all.
    We decided to have breakfast at KOI restaurant downstairs, which is a sushi place for lunch and dinner, but serves an amazing American breakfast. Marcos, our server both mornings, was wonderful and the service couldn't of been better. He even taught my Granddaughter how to fold the fancy napkins. He was absolutely fabulous. One morning we had breakfast a few doors down at Le Pain Quotidien. Food was ok, but the coffee was amazing.
    We were greeted every day by Rowan, the doorman. He also referred to us by name and my Granddaughter just loved him. He was always interested in what we did that day and what our plans were for the next.
    Hotel is walking to distance to just about everything. We did take a taxi to Battery Park which was sooooo expensive, but because I was with my 10 year old Granddaughter, I didn't want to take the subway.
    It's simply amazing how a wonderful Hotel staff can make or break a trip. This was a special get a way for us, and the way we were treated by Steven, Rowan, Marcos and especially Jo, we will never, ever forget it.
    Bryant Park Hotel, I will be back.
    Written 20 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BathHolidayfun
    Bath, UK84 contributions
    From start to finish this was excellent. It was a cold but sunny psi the views were superb. All the staff were friendly. My daughter was wearing a Birthday Girl headband and everyone wished her a Happy Birthday. Stayed up there for an hour enjoying the views . We went at 9.30am so it was not busy .
    Written 13 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Divmercy
    Naples, FL52 contributions
    We took a tour of this library that is free. Check out their website to find out details on how to get tickets. We learned so much history and details about the library and what it contains inside. I don’t want to ruin some of the details, so take the tour. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and funny.
    There is a great exhibit going on at this time that is also free to tour. The library also has a fantastic store and coffee shop.
    Written 19 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Melaney68
    Chesapeake Beach, MD9,482 contributions
    The staff did a very good job of monitoring and welcoming visitors. Large bags were checked as we entered and it was fairly easy to then visit and take in the beauty of the church. Bathrooms were on site, but the line was long.
    Written 19 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • NatliaCM91
    Bangor, UK67 contributions
    Chelsea market is such a vibe!! Cool, quirky and unique!! Lots of lovely places to stop and eat!! Stop by if you get a chance
    Written 19 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Bryce S
    New Hope, PA1,715 contributions
    Fifth avenue is one of the greatest shopping streets in the world. It features store after tire, most New York flagship store locations. Examples are Tiffany’s, Cartier, Saks Fifth Avenue and Louis Vuitton.

    The sidewalks are wide. There are other sights to see that do not involve shopping. Two examples are St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Rockefeller Center.

    This is a great place for shopping, people shopping and people watching.
    Written 12 February 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • ldjs
    Fort Lee, NJ617 contributions
    Interesting and certainly memorable architecture, clean and modern space, a pleasure to walk and shop. Maybe a bit too sterile in somewhat shocking contrast in esthetics to old New York subway stations. Very airy and spacious.
    Definitely worth stopping by..
    Written 10 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.