From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the Big Apple offers a plethora of budget-friendly attractions. Whether you're a savvy traveler on a shoestring budget or a local looking for wallet-friendly fun, you’ll find cheap seats or discount tickets right here. Some of the best attractions are even free.
Outdoor Art
NYC is full of free outdoor art that you don’t even have to go to a museum or even pay to see. Explore the city and discover the sculptures, murals, and photographs that adorn it around every corner.
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Groundswell Murals
Thanks to Groundswell’s collaborative art-making, 500 murals adorn NYC across all five boroughs. Hundreds of community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, and government agencies joined with students and teaching artists to create these public works of art. Groundswell believes that art creates community and community creates change. The murals explore themes of social justice and activism to amplify diverse voices.
Read More
Socrates Sculpture Park
This accessible community arts space is a cultural anchor in Queens, where you can view exhibitions of contemporary public art and take part in classes and activities. Exhibits feature both internationally renowned artists and up-and-coming creators and encourage unfettered ambition in scale and subject matter. The vast majority of artworks exhibited at Socrates are built on-site in the outdoor artist studio space, which gives Park visitors the unique opportunity to witness the often labor-intensive art-making process.
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The Welling Court Mural Project
In the neighborhood of Welling Court, a remarkable fusion of art and community has been unfolding since 2009. Stretching out like spokes from a center point, Welling Court's residential streets are a canvas for over 150 local and international artists which showcases a diverse array of contemporary street art. From iconic figures like Lady Pink and Tristan Easton to emerging talents, the project has become a must-see destination for art enthusiasts seeking vibrant urban expression. The Welling Court Mural Project bills itself as “one of the best collections of contemporary street culture on earth” for good reason.
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A night of laughs: comedy clubs and improv
New York is home to some of the oldest and most culturally significant comedy clubs and establishments in the nation. Even better, some of them are free! So many famous comedians got their start in NYC performing in these clubs and many regularly return to perform drop-ins while working on new material. Spend an evening at one of these shows and you never know whether you’ll see the next rising Netflix star or a set from a world-famous comedian.
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Williamsburg Comedy Club
"Comedy On The House" on Tuesday nights is the best free comedy show you'll see in NYC. The Comedy Club of Williamsburg presents some of the funniest and most talented professional standup comedians touring the country today. They feature veteran comics working out new bits along with budding up-and-comers who perform all over the city. You might get surprise pop-ins from some of the most popular comics in the country; past pop-ins include Che Durena (Just For Laughs,17 million TikTok followers), Colum Tyrell (The Tonight Show w/ Jimmy Fallon), Mark Normand (We Might Be Drunk), Todd Barry (Comedy Central), Graham Kay (Conan), Mario Adrion (America's Got Talent) and many, many more recognizable faces. With an intimate setting and excellent cocktail selection, it’s sure to be a night of fun and laughter.
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Arthur Avenue Comedy’s Fordham Stand-Up Wednesday
If you want to hear top comics from TV and NYC’s major clubs, you don’t need to leave the Bronx. Arthur Avenue Comedy’s Fordham Stand-Up Wednesday features the long sets that other shows don’t give them the time to perform. Past performers include comedians from HBO, Netflix, Colbert, SNL, the Daily Show, Letterman, the Tonight Show, Comedy Central, and more. Wednesday’s at Arthur Avenue Comedy is your chance to watch comedians flex their muscles and hit their stride on an intimate stage at Clinton Hall. Enjoy delicious craft food and beers on tap, and make it an evening. The show is always free.
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Live entertainment
Free Concerts at Bryant Park
Bryant Park is home to a series of live music, dance, and theater events that are sure to be a hit. They’ve included headliners like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert bandleader Louis Cato; trumpeter Steven Bernstein playing the music of James Bond with Arturo O’Farrill and The Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra; the NYC premiere of Ghanaian highlife band Gyedu-Bly Ambolley; Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE dance company; South African world pop star Thandiswa Mazwai and many more. There’s even a performance curated especially for kids. Forgot your picnic blanket? No problem. There will be more than 700 picnic blankets for audience members to borrow and chairs available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Concerts in Central Park
You can attend a wide variety of concerts and performances in Central Park in the summer. On Friday mornings Good Morning America concerts bring a star-studded line-up to the park for early birds. The New York Philharmonic provides an evening of classical music under the stars, and the Met brings opera to the park. The Naumburg Orchestra has been bringing free classical music concerts to Central Park since 1905—the oldest concert series of its kind. Events like the Global Citizen Festival, the Harlem Meer Performance Festival, and Great Jazz on the Great Hill provide something for everyone.
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Free Concerts at Hudson Yards
You can catch dozens of free movies, concerts, and shows at Hudson Yards in the summer, enjoying free entertainment next to some of the most exclusive shops and restaurants in the city. The concerts are curated by Bowery Presents and bring in well-known acts like Keke Palmer, David Archuleta, Brynn Cartelli, Chayce Beckham, and Ray Bull. On the 30-foot big screen, watch outdoor screenings of movie blockbusters and live sports. Special events include free classes with fitness influencers and silent reading parties, or entertain the whole family with Mozart for Munchkins, storytime with the NY public library, and puppet shows.
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Summerstage: Groove to an outdoor concert
Who doesn’t love a free outdoor concert in some of the most iconic parks in the world? This New York City outdoor arts festival spans Central Park and 13 neighborhood parks with more than 80 free performances. It showcases both emerging and well-known artists from around the world, in diverse genres like jazz, hip-hop, indie rock, salsa, reggae, Afrobeats, soul, pop, global and contemporary dance. Local parks are transformed into dynamic and accessible performance spaces. There truly is no better place to experience music than amongst the trees. Watch a legendary artist or discover your new favorite performer.
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Get outdoors
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
You might not expect to find one of the largest bird habitats in the northeast in Queens. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a sprawling sanctuary that offers a wild escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore winding trails, spot migratory birds, and marvel at the stunning marshlands that provide a habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. With over 12,000 acres of salt marshes, freshwater, and brackish ponds, upland fields and woods, and open bay and islands, it provides sanctuary to both migrating species and local birds. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just looking for a serene retreat, you’ll enjoy strolling the trails or paddling the many waterways.
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Wave Hill
You won’t believe you’re still in the city when you venture into this part park, part public garden oasis. From the viewpoint of this 19th-century estate, you can take in the Hudson River below and the Palisades in the distance. Shady trails pass by gazebos and flower beds, and a fragrant herb garden tantalizes your senses. This city-owned escape is so peaceful you’ll think you’ve found your own secret garden.
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Queens County Farm Museum
Discover a pastoral oasis at Queens County Farm Museum, where history, agriculture, and community converge on 47 acres of farmland. Founded in 1697, this living museum preserves Queens' rich agricultural heritage and offers a taste of rural life for urban dwellers. The sprawling grounds are dotted with historic farm buildings, lush orchards, and gardens teeming with seasonal crops. Meet the barnyard sheep, chickens, and goats, or hop on a hayride to claim your prize Halloween pumpkin. The farm offers workshops and seasonal events for visitors of all ages. Be a volunteer farmer and tend the fields alongside farmers; you’ll get some exercise and fresh air, and learn what it takes to grow your own food. Queens Farm is open to the public seven days a week with free admission.
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Queens Botanical Garden
Queens Botanical Garden evolved from the 5-acre “Gardens on Parade” exhibit showcased at the 1939–1940 World’s Fair. Local residents saved and expanded the original exhibit, which was later moved to its current location on Main Street in Flushing. Original plantings were incorporated from the 1939 site such as two blue atlas cedars that frame the iconic tree gate sculpture at the Garden’s Main Street entrance. Queens Botanical Garden is a 39-acre oasis in one of New York City’s most bustling and diverse neighborhoods and is unlike any other botanical garden in the world. Admission is free Wednesday afternoon and Sunday morning, plus it’s free every day from December 16-March. If you miss the free days, don’t worry, admission tops out at a mere six bucks.
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Wave Hill
You won’t believe you’re still in the city when you venture into this part park, part public garden oasis. From the viewpoint of this 19th-century estate, you can take in the Hudson River below and the Palisades in the distance. Shady trails pass by gazebos and flower beds, and a fragrant herb garden tantalizes your senses. This city-owned escape is so peaceful you’ll think you’ve found your own secret garden. Plus, it’s free on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
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Valentino Pier
Where can you find a view of the Statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, Manhattan’s skyline, Staten Island, and the New York Harbor? This little-known park is a gem along Brooklyn’s waterfront. Though it’s now surrounded by industrial, residential, and historic buildings, Valentino Pier was once the site of an active shipping industry that formed after the Red Hook district was settled by the Dutch in the 1600s. The pier was constructed in 1996 to commemorate the shipping industry that once occupied the waters of the Buttermilk Channel and the Upper New York Harbor. The park is also home to a collection of street art, and there’s a waterfront lawn and a kayak boat launch.
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Inwood Hill Park
Inwood Hill Park is a slice of New York eons before people were there. Glaciers shaped its prehistoric caves, valleys, and ridges that are now lush forests and salt marsh, the last such habitat in Manhattan. Ongoing discoveries reveal the history of Native Americans who occupied this swath of ground. Today, the park is a haven of natural beauty with hiking trails, bike paths, and even a chance to spot a bald eagle. You’ll also find modern amenities like athletic fields, playgrounds, dog runs, and picnic areas.
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Van Cortlandt Park
Play a round, learn cricket, go horseback riding, or just wander through the 7.5-mile loop trail. With over a thousand acres to explore, Van Cortlandt Park is the city's third-largest park, and it boasts everything from playing fields to playgrounds. Tibbets Brook creates a haven of water sound as it weaves through dense forests. You'll find the nation's first public golf course, the oldest house in the Bronx, and the borough's biggest freshwater lake.
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Orchard Beach
Bring your sun hat and your beach towel. Orchard Beach is the Bronx’s only public beach, and at 1.1 miles long, there’s room for everyone. This ambitious public space was proclaimed “The Riviera of New York” when it was created in the 1930’s. Now it features two playgrounds, two picnic areas, and 26 courts for basketball, volleyball, and handball.
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Culture and sophistication: museums and art galleries
New York City has more museums than several entire states combined, and many of them offer cheap or free times to visit. All of them are worth visiting, and a trip to a museum can be a great way to start your day or to spend an evening with friends, your partner, or by yourself. Whether you want to visit a massive art gallery or a smaller museum dedicated to a specific subject or historical identity, you should consider exploring the options for visiting museums in NYC.
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Salvator Mundi Museum of Art
The Salvator Mundi Museum of Art takes its name from an infamous work of art that was purportedly a lost masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci. Rediscovered in 2005 under multiple layers of overpainting, and torn and decayed by wormholes, the painting was restored and shattered auction records with a sale price of over 450 million dollars. This niche museum houses a private collection of art and ephemera surrounding the Salvator Mundi story.
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Center for Italian Modern Art
Italian and modern are the operative words for this space specializing in exhibitions of important, historical works by members of Italy’s 20th-century avant-garde. Visits have to be scheduled in advance but admission is only $10, and what you receive in return is the chance to get up close and personal with masterpieces by such greats as De Chirico and Morandi.
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The Met: Admire works of art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (or the Met, as locals prefer) is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves art, architecture, landscaping, or history. Plus, there are several ways to visit for free or cheap. The museum is open to all at no cost during the Museum Mile Festival. Other days, admission is free for children, teens, or military service members. If you have a Bank of America account, the Museums on Us program provides select free admission. Every day, NY residents can enter with the “pay as you wish” price. This expansive museum includes two separate collections, making it easy for guests to tailor their visits to their unique interests. The Met Fifth Avenue contains world art and clothing spanning over 5,000 years, with unique riches from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Oceania. Meanwhile, The Met Cloisters is devoted to European art, architecture, and landscaping from the Medieval period.
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Bronx Museum of the Arts
Explore more than,000 works of art by talented creators who are either Bronx-based or of African, Asian, or Latino ancestry. The museum strives to offer opportunities and representation for the community, and especially for youth, through immersion in visual arts, culture, and community. Its striking 2004 addition not only expanded the capacity for programs and outreach, it was awarded the “Excellence in Design” prize by The Art Commission of the City of New York. Admission to the museum is always free, as are all programs and exhibitions.
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Museum of the Moving Image
Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) features a free 15,500-square-foot community space called Open Worlds where you can experience new media technologies. A variety of free programs explore technology with themes of content creation, Pride, accessibility, science on screen, special effects, video gaming, and much more. Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) is the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to exploring the moving image in all its forms. MoMI focuses on moving images like film, television, video games, and digital media, and how they shape our perceptions of the world. You can take in an exhibition, catch contemporary and classic films from around the world, join in discussions with leading figures in film and television, explore their unique collection, or sign up for a class. MoMI offers free admission to all exhibits on Thursday afternoons.
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El Museo de Barrio
While you’re exploring New York City's historic Museum Mile, don’t miss El Museo del Barrio. It’s the nation’s leading Latinx and Latin American cultural institution and it’s bursting with Latino art and heritage. Colorful exhibits showcase the richness of Latin American and Caribbean cultures, events celebrate music, dance, and community. Admission is pay-what-you-wish, so you everyone can enjoy the feast for the senses.
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Queens Museum
The Queens Museum is a cultural hub nestled in the heart of Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The first thing you see when you enter is the iconic Panorama of the City of New York, a sprawling miniature model that captures the city in intricate detail. Beyond this centerpiece, the museum boasts exhibitions that celebrate local and international art, history, and culture. From contemporary masterpieces to thought-provoking installations, each display invites guests on a journey of artistic discovery. Pay-What-You-Wish admission makes the museum accessible to all community members.
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MoMA PS1
Originally a public school building, MoMA PS1 is now a vibrant space showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art, installations, performances, and exhibitions. The museum's sprawling courtyard hosts summer parties and events, while its galleries and experimental spaces inside provide a platform for emerging artists to push boundaries and challenge conventions. You can expect bold, thought-provoking exhibits that break down boundaries. Plus, admission is free for all New Yorkers, and a low requested fee for others.
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National Museum of the American Indian
Explore the famed collections of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum complex, without leaving NYC. The National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) cares for a vast collection of Native artifacts, including objects, photographs, archives, and media from the entire Western Hemisphere. You can purchase genuine Native American merchandise in the museum store, grab a bit to eat at the Mili Kàpi Cafe, or enjoy the interactive imagiNATIONS Activity Center with the whole family. Entrance to the museum is always free.
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Outdoor Art
NYC is full of free outdoor art that you don’t even have to go to a museum to see. Explore the city and discover the sculptures, murals, and photographs that adorn it around every corner.
Read More
The Welling Court Mural Project
In the neighborhood of Welling Court, a remarkable fusion of art and community has been unfolding since 2009. Stretching out like spokes from a center point, Welling Court's residential streets are a canvas for over 150 local and international artists which showcases a diverse array of contemporary street art. From iconic figures like Lady Pink and Tristan Easton to emerging talents, the project has become a must-see destination for art enthusiasts seeking vibrant urban expression. The Welling Court Mural Project bills itself as “one of the best collections of contemporary street culture on earth” for good reason.
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Socrates Sculpture Park
This accessible community arts space is a cultural anchor in Queens, where you can view exhibitions of contemporary public art and take part in classes and activities. Exhibits feature both internationally renowned artists and up-and-coming creators and encourage unfettered ambition in scale and subject matter. The vast majority of artworks exhibited at Socrates are built on-site in the outdoor artist studio space, which gives Park visitors the unique opportunity to witness the often labor-intensive art-making process.
Read More
Groundswell Murals
Thanks to Groundswell’s collaborative art-making, 500 murals adorn NYC across all five boroughs. Hundreds of community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, and government agencies joined with students and teaching artists to create these public works of art. Groundswell believes that art creates community and community creates change. The murals explore themes of social justice and activism to amplify diverse voices.
Read More
See the sights: landmarks, tours and vistas
Sometimes, you just want to spend a nice evening outside, exploring the natural beauty and architectural wonder of NYC. Whether you want to visit Central Park, explore Times Square, or see some of the amazing hundred-year-old buildings, there is no shortage of places to explore.
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Visit the High Line: See a unique urban park
High Line is a one-of-a-kind outdoor park built on a raised freight rail from the 20th century.
Awash with wildflowers, plants, and outdoor art installations, the park offers 360-degree views of the Hudson River and surrounding city. High Line is a fabulous place to take a scenic evening walk, with a trail that runs from the Hudson Yards to the northern perimeter of Chelsea. The park is situated on the west side of Manhattan and is wheelchair accessible through several entrances.
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Tour Wall Street: Take a picture with the bull
Wall Street is an impressive space to explore in its own right. Not only can you visit some of the impressive architectural wonders, like the NYSE, the Woolworth Building, or Trinity Church, you can also see some of the famous art that adorns the streets, like the Bull of Wall Street and the Fearless Girl. Follow a free walking tour guide to take in the famed financial center of the country.
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Explore Times Square: See the lights at night
Known across the world for its enormous outdoor screens, Times Square’s mesmerizing digital displays are even more impressive at night when every screen syncs up for Art at Midnight. Outside of its Cyberpunk-esque appeal, the square is filled with evening arts events, from pop-up art shows and ice sculpture galleries to classic Broadway shows. Visitors will also find no shortage of options when it comes to shopping and dining, with dozens of Michelin-star restaurants like Le Bernardin and Café Mars. Each year, Times Square turns festive before hosting the New Year’s Eve countdown, an event made all the more magical for in-person attendees.
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Ride the Ferry: See NYC from the water
Experience NYC's waterways for free when you ride the Staten Island Ferry. You can bask in the breathtaking views of the iconic skyline, Statue of Liberty, and bustling harbor as you journey between Manhattan and Staten Island. Once you arrive in Staten Island, venture to the nearby Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden; it’s only five bucks for adults and free for kids. Or, opt for an affordable adventure aboard the NYC Ferry for just $4. You’ll traverse waterfront communities like DUMBO, Williamsburg, Astoria, and Battery Park City along six scenic routes covering over 60 nautical miles throughout the city.
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Central Park: Experience the outdoors
Created in 1858, Central Park is one of the best-known city parks around the globe and is the site of numerous Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings. This beautiful, grassy park is situated in the heart of Manhattan and is the perfect place to people-watch, stroll, or picnic in the dark. Central park offers a diverse landscape including a lake and over 18,000 trees which house more than 300 bird species. In addition to 800+ acres of nature, the park also contains a variety of other attractions, from art installations to the remains of a pre-civil war African-American village. Visitors can explore the park for free year-round with varied accessibility.
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Tour the Grand Concourse
Everyone in the Bronx knows the Grand Concourse. It was once the swankiest address in the city, known as the Park Avenue of the Bronx. Conceived as a rival to France’s Champs-Élysées, its 5.2-mile course was built on an elevated ridge so it would rise above the surrounding city. The boulevard is home to one of the largest collections of Art Deco apartment buildings in the world, along with iconic buildings like the Concourse Plaza Hotel, Yankee Stadium, and Loew’s Paradise Theater. Today, the portion stretching from 153rd Street to 167th Street was designated as the Grand Concourse Historic District by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. You can take a walking tour or hop on the bus to explore this slice of the Bronx's history.
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Brooklyn Bridge: Walk the iconic bridge
Built in the 19th century, the Brooklyn Bridge was the first bridge in history to make use of steel as cable wiring and is one of New York’s finest industrial landmarks. At the time, this gothic suspension bridge was the longest ever built, measuring a mile that can be walked in roughly 30 minutes for an inspiring view. As one of the surest symbols of NYC strength, the bridge has been an important subject in the works of painters as well as poets like Walt Whitman, Marianne Moore, and Hart Crane. In addition to admiring the city from the bridge, visitors can explore 85 acres of riverwalk and splendid gardens in Brooklyn Bridge Park. The park also offers a variety of paid activities, including indoor roller skating, kayaking, pickleball, basketball, and soccer.
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Rockefeller Center
While the magnificent view from the Top of the Rock isn’t cheap, there are other ways to enjoy the Rockefeller Center, a historic shopping center in the center of Midtown. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and art in the Rockefeller Center Plaza, including the iconic Prometheus statue and the Channel Gardens. Catch the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony or browse TV-inspired merchandise at the NBC Studios Store. The stunning lobby of Radio City Music Hall is open to the public to admire the architecture and historic artifacts. Free public art pop-ups take place in unique and unexpected locations throughout the center, with installations inspired by the New York City landscape and contemporary life. A haven for shoppers, Rockefeller Center includes a wide range of stores at all price points along with plenty of delicious eats in Koreatown.
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Roosevelt Island: Walk the boardwalks
The small island protruding from the East River in Manhattan is full of fun evening activities that range from free to paid. In addition to a variety of parks, Roosevelt Island is home to historical landmarks such as the Renwick Ruin (site of a historic smallpox hospital), the Octagon Tower (once an insane asylum), and a beautiful 19th-century lighthouse that offers sweeping views of the city. Other fun activities available on the island include outdoor movie nights, arts festivals, and fireworks. Since boating to the island isn’t an option for everyone, Roosevelt Island provides convenient tramway transportation across the river.
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Explore NYC history
City Island Nautical Museum
A visit to City Island is like stepping back in time. Access to the island is limited by a small bridge which has kept much of this nautical hub from development. The island is famous for its ties to the ocean and its yacht-building past. Photographs, stories, and exhibits showcase the rich maritime history in this cozy homage to the past. You can explore the iconic shipyards, meet the skilled craftsmen, and uncover the secrets behind the construction of legendary sailing and motor yachts. Get an insider's look at the military vessels built during wartime and the sleek 12-meter sloops that dominated the America's Cup. The City Island Nautical Museum is housed in a school building designed by C.B.J. Snyder in 1897 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places and a designated New York City landmark. It’s open on weekends, and admission is free.
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Harbor Defense Museum
Nestled within the historic Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, the Harbor Defense Museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the maritime military history of New York Harbor. As the only military museum in New York City, it showcases the strategic significance of coastal defense throughout the nation's history. Exhibits ranging from weaponry and uniforms to interactive displays detail the evolution of harbor defenses. The museum takes you through the role New York Harbor played, from the Revolutionary War era to modern-day maritime operations, in shaping the nation’s defense strategies.
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Underground Bunkers: Explore the Past
Tucked away at the farthest edges of Queens, a quiet strip of land reaches out into the Atlantic Ocean alongside the vibrant vibes of Coney Island and Brighton Beach. Fort Tilden is a fascinating slice of history that was bustling with activity during World War I. Now, it’s your private beach, part of the 26,000-acre Gateway National Recreation Area, surrounded by the echoes of a bygone era. Feel the thrill of exploration as you wander through its abandoned nooks and crannies, now reclaimed by nature with sandy dunes and lush greenery. It's like stepping into a forgotten adventure, an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Admission is always free to this slice of the past.
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American Museum of Natural History
Find the answers to the universe in this 150-year-old NYC institution. There are wonders at every turn, from a massive grizzly bear to a 94-foot-long blue whale and a prehistoric Barosaurus skeleton. Four floors are packed with wonders from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, so there's something to spark your curiosity at every turn. Admission to permanent exhibitions is pay-what-you-wish for locals.
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Center for Brooklyn History
Learn about the 400-year history of Brooklyn at an institution that was part of it. The Center for Brooklyn History was founded in 1863. It’s located in a landmark four-story Queen Anne–style building that was designed by George B. Post. The center houses numerous permanent and ongoing exhibits, including "It Happened in Brooklyn, " highlighting local links to crucial moments in American history. This freshly renovated landmark building—home to the Othmer Library's magnificent reading room—is a trove of special collections, archives, ephemera, art exhibits and programs that bring the city's rich history to Brooklynites of all ages. There are also weekend and after-school programs for the kids.
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Edgar Allen Poe Cottage
See where Edward Allen Poe wrote some of his best-known works, including “Annabel Lee, ” “Eureka, ” and “The Bells.” Poe retreated to this working-class cottage in 1944 with his wife, Virginia, and Virginia’s mother, Maria Clemm. He hoped that the quiet cottage, set among fields and orchards far from the polluted city, would help Virginia recover from tuberculosis. After Poe’s death, the cottage became a literary landmark and was saved from demolition and moved across the street by the New York Shakespeare Society. The restored cottage is open to the public on Saturdays or by appointment.
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TWA Hotel
Time travel to the early days of flight with a visit to the TWA Hotel. Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 TWA Flight Center’s futuristic curvacious design is a swinging blast from the past. It’s an operating hotel connected to the JFK Airport, but the exhibits and dining are open to the public. Enjoy a cocktail in a vintage a vintage Lockheed Constellation “Connie” L-1649A jet that’s been transformed into a bar, or ice or roller skate on the tarmac. A flight attendant’s log detailing five years of airborne adventures, vintage furniture from the TWA headquarters, and in-flight amenities like gilded playing cards and silver serving ware are just some of the items showcased at the TWA Hotel. A Food Hall near the hotel’s entrance offers grab-and-go options that are easy on the wallet.
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Theatre on the cheap
Queens Theatre
For a fraction of the price of a show on Broadway, you can catch a Broadway-style production, a contemporary play, a dance production, or a music concert at the Queens Theatre, situated in the New York State Pavilion designed for the 1964 World’s Fair. The venue holds three performance spaces, including a 464-seat main stage, a 99-seat studio theater, and a 75-seat cabaret space, for hosting a diverse range of performances. Queens Theatre also hosts family-friendly performances and has a reasonably priced kids' series and birthday party packages. Beyond just stage productions, Queens Theatre hosts educational programs and workshops for aspiring performers.
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La Guardia Performing Arts Center
Get cheap tickets for great shows at this college-based theatre on the campus of LaGuardia Community College. Calling itself an “artistic hub for vital, innovative storytellers, ” the center welcomes a diverse array of emerging and mid-career performers and new artistic voices. The center also offers classes for students and community members, including workshops, masterclasses, and artist residencies, that foster creativity and artistic exploration.
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Cheap eats
NYC is a foodie mecca for cheap eats. From hole-in-the-wall eateries to bustling food markets, there's no shortage of cheap dining options for you to discover across the city. Whether you're craving authentic street food, international cuisine, or classic New York staples, read on to find some of the best budget-friendly meals in NYC.
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New World Mall
Though merchandise abounds in the shops, what this huge Asian mall is really known for is the food. A J Mart Asian supermarket fills two levels, and on the third floor is one of the largest Chinese dim sum restaurants and banquet halls in the Tri-State areas, with a capacity of hosting 1,500 patrons. The sprawling basement food court is one of the famous dining destinations in the neighborhood—known for its diversity of Chinese and other Asian cuisines and its affordability. Slurp some noodle soup, sample dumplings, or try a delicious dry pot.
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Grow your own food
What’s more fun and satisfying than buying your food directly from the farmer? You can be the farmer, even in the middle of NYC. Classes show you how to grow food in containers, rooftops, and vertical gardens that fit right into the concrete jungle of the city. You’ll learn about the best plants for your urban garden and how to prepare your soil so they’ll thrive.
Cheap Beer
When all you want is a cold, frosty brewsky, these bars deliver. Here’s a list of the best dive bars, beer bars, and beer gardens that sling beer at any hour, for cheap.
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Happy Hour
Start your night out early or sample the best of NYC bars at discounted prices. Happy Hour is a winning starter for date night or any night.
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The NY Hot Dog
Hot dogs are a class NYC quick and cheap meal, and you can’t go wrong with one of these dogs. This tube of meat handed out from under a red and yellow umbrella is the quintessential treat. Check out the best hot dogs in the city, from curbside carts to burger joints to fine dining. Grab the mustard and your fave toppings (sauerkraut or chili?) and go for a stroll.
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Visit an outdoor market
Outdoor markets come to life with fresh eats, live entertainment, and an explosion of local culture and cuisine. Here are some markets you don’t want to miss.
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Bronx Night Market
The Bronx Night Market isn't just any food event. It’s the longest-running series in the borough, and it's transformed the food scene and become a part of the Bronx's identity. A remarkable lineup of 50 local vendors offers a diverse range of cuisines and draws over 4,000 guests each time. You don’t want to miss this bustling hub of community and gastronomic bliss. But it's more than just food; the Night Market celebrates the borough's unique identity in a fusion of flavors, cultures, and people. If you want to experience the true essence of the borough, the Bronx Night Market is the place to be.
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Queens Night Market
The Queens Night Market is NYC’s first and most affordable night market. This large, family-friendly open-air night market features over 100 independent vendors selling merchandise, art, and food and featuring small-scale cultural performances, all celebrating the rich cultural diversity and heritage of NYC and Queens. The foodie festival runs on Saturday nights through the summer at the New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
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Uptown Night Market
Uptown Night Market is a foodie mecca in the heart of Harlem. Over 80 vendors serve dishes and libations from all corners of the world, bringing unmatched authenticity and passion to your meal. From mouthwatering Mexican-style hot dogs to tantalizing tacos and everything in between, there's something for everyone at this epic street bash. You don’t need a ticket to catch all the excitement here.
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Latin Night Market
Celebrate the cuisine and culture of the Latin diaspora in Uptown. The Latin Night Market shows off South and Central American cuisine from over 50 vendors. Sample Latin and Caribbean food, and catch live performances featuring genres like Salsa, Reggae, Rumba, Jazz, Latin Pop, and Hip Hop. Enjoy activities for the whole family, art shows, raffles and giveaways, and more.
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Brooklyn Night Market
Sample cuisines from around the world while you listen to live music at this foodie festival in Industry City. The Brooklyn Night Market is hosted against the backdrop of a stunning sunset and between two iconic city blocks. You’ll get a taste of the best of Brooklyn here, with a fusion of flavors, cultures, and community spirit.
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Vegan Market
Find your plant-based mecca in Central Park. From die-hard vegans to curious folks, to “I got dragged here by my partner but it’s actually pretty good, ” everyone will discover something that pleases their palate. This market leads the way in plant-based foods and broader plant-based living. Innovative vegan entrepreneurs deliver not just cruelty-free cuisine and share a broader cultural shift toward sustainable and compassionate choices.
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Find unique treasures shopping in NYC
Using shopping and cheap in the same sentence doesn’t have to be a contradiction. Check out these venues for great deals on one-of-a-kind items.
Brooklyn Pop-Up
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop to discover new small businesses and support local brands, look no further than Brooklyn Pop-Up. This woman-owned business is your go-to for a diverse selection of makers representing the best of Brooklyn and beyond. From contemporary fashion and accessories to home goods, beauty products, and artisanal distillers, you'll find it all here. Rotating storefront and outdoor retail events at Brooklyn Museum and Fort Greene Park keep the finds exciting and ensure there's always something new to explore. Join in this celebration of local craftspeople, sustainable design, and handmade wares—you never know what treasures you'll uncover.
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Brooklyn Flea
Find one-of-a-kind treasures at this quirky outdoor market. Brooklyn Flea has become one of New York City’s top attractions, operating flea markets every weekend of the year across different neighborhoods. The Fleas feature hundreds of top vendors of furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles, and antiques, as well as a tightly curated selection of jewelry, art, and crafts by local artisans and designers. Travel + Leisure, Country Living, Budget Travel, and Fodor’s have ranked the Flea one of the best markets in the U.S. and the world; and Time Out NY named the Flea one of New York’s Essential Pick-Up Spots. You’re sure to find that special tchotchke or quirky trouser suit right here.
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Unique attractions
NYC is a tourist's dream, and even if you are from the city, there is no shortage of fun ways to spend your evening in unique—and cheap!—ways.
Dave and Buster’s $5 happy hour
With seven locations in NYC, including a flagship location in Time Square, Dave and Buster’s is a perfect place to go with friends or a date. Famous for taking the barcade concept to the next level and appealing to adults who want to eat, drink and play games, Dave and Buster’s is essentially designed as an arcade that is also an excellent fast casual restaurant and a full-service bar, making it a great place to spend an evening if you want to escape from your troubles and just have fun. They also host team-building events, birthday parties and other get-togethers, making them the perfect place to host a social function. Sip a glass of wine, have a boozy lemonade or Long Island iced tea, or choose your favorite domestic draft—it’s just five bucks at happy hour.
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Queens Zoo
For less than a ten-spot, you can explore the wild wonders of the Queens Zoo, where paths meandering through 13 acres feature North American wildlife in their natural habitats. Visitors can see American bison, mountain lions, California sea lions, American bald eagles, and Roosevelt elk. Don't miss the aviary; once the iconic Winston Churchill Pavilion at the 1964-65 World's Fair, it’s now a breathtaking spiral walkway where vibrant birds flutter freely. The ornate Gates of Life by Albino Manca and Clarke and Rapuano adorn the zoo's entrance, celebrating the beauty of nature.
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Movies in the Park
Grab a blanket and bring your friends to enjoy free movies under the stars. Bryant Park features a lineup of new features and perennial favorites that all ages will love. There’s nothing like a big screen against the city skyline. Mark your Thursday summer evenings for Movies With a View at Brooklyn Bridge Park. There’s no better place to be on a hot summer night than watching a film and enjoying the breeze off of the East River with the dazzling Manhattan skyline before you.
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Baseball: Cheer on the Brooklyn Cyclones
Remember when baseball was affordable and played just for the fun of it? For the cost of change in your pocket, you can cheer for this single-A minor-league farm team for the New York Mets play at Maimonides Park. Enjoy a beautiful summer evening in the city and grab a hot dog and beer to complete a perfect night out.
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Get a Pass to Savings
Some of NYC’s best attractions accept discount cards that let you enter for cheap, or even free. Check out these cards for some of the best deals in the city.
Culture Pass: Free admission with your library card
You can visit some of NYC’s most popular attractions for free if you have a library card from the Brooklyn Public Library, Queens Public Library, or New York Public Library (serving the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island). The Culture Pass allows you to reserve free passes to 95+ cultural institutions across NYC. Dozens of organizations participate in Culture Pass, from children’s museums and public gardens to historical societies and heritage centers.
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Cool Culture: Family access to cultural partners
Do you have children in preschool or kindergarten? The Cool Culture Family Pass allows participating families free general admission to 90 participating cultural institutions in New York City. To receive a pass, sign up through your child’s school or childcare program that is enrolled with Cool Culture.
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New York CityPASS
If you're looking for the best things to do in New York, you'll love the simplicity and convenience of New York CityPASS® tickets. For a flat price, you receive admission to the Empire State Building Observatory and the American Museum of Natural History, plus three more attractions of your choice from the following: Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Ferry Access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, Intrepid Museum, or Guggenheim Museum. The pass is valid for nine days after your first use, so this is a great way to save money on the cost of admission if you’re planning to do some sightseeing.
The New York Pass by Go City
The New York Pass® discounts admission to over 100 NYC attractions and activities, including favorites like the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock®, American Museum of Natural History, and Guggenheim Museum. You purchase a pass for your chosen number of days, ranging from one to ten, and use the accompanying app to purchase unlimited admissions for free.
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The New York Sightseeing Pass
When you purchase a New York Sightseeing Pass, you’ll have free admission to over 150 favorite NYC attractions, including Central Park Zoo, Bronx Zoo, and NY Aquarium. Plus, you can enjoy one day one the Downtown and Uptown loops of the Big Bus NY Classic Tour, the perfect way to get a spectacular overview of Manhattan. You choose the duration of your pass, from one to ten days, and then show your pass to enter your chosen attractions.
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Go City
Go City is another pass option that lets you see the best of NYC at a discount. With the All-Inclusive Pass, you can visit as many attractions as you wish over consecutive three days. If you’d like to spread out your visits, opt for the Explorer Pass. You can visit your choice of three attractions any time during 60 days. Once you’ve purchased your pass, your admission is free.
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