Free Things to Do in NYC: Top List 2024

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Related reading: Top 10 Things to do in New York City

If this is your first time to New York, chances are you will be awed by the sheer magnanimity of the Manhattan skyline, its frenetic sight, and sound too. But dont let this get in the way to soak the grandeur of this Big Apple. We have curated a must-do list of star attractions of Manhattan that will let you embrace every New York minute on your first visit here.

Free things to do in NYC

Attracting over 42 million visitors every year, The Central Park is undoubtedly the first on our must-do list for Manhattan. The 843 acres of lush greenness, located at the heart of the Big Apple is considered a template for all big parks around the world. While there are unlimited possibilities of to-do in Central Park, we have a couple of fun activities for you and your familia. The best way to cover this massive Park is to take a pedicab tour around it. You will appreciate the breath of things you include during this ride while your guide explains the different landmarks you come across in the ride. Do stop by and soak in the scenes of the Ramble and the Lake as well as the Central Park Zoo. The Park is open from 6 A.M. to 1 A.M. There are 18 gated entrances to the Park. Do collect Park information, maps, and souvenirs at the entry of your choice to make the most of the visit.

Things to do in manhattan

This 1454 feet iconic skyscraper in the center of Mid-town Manhattan offers mesmerizing 360 degrees view of the New York City and beyond via its 86th and 102nd-floor observatory. Get a glimpse of one-of-a-kind views of Central Park, East River, and The Hudson River, The Brooklyn Bridge, The Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and many more. Whether you are in town for a year or a day, you cannot return without making a trip to the Empire State Building. The newly opened 2nd-floor interactive Museum will take you on a journey of the building construction to the present day. Also, don't forget to stop by to take a picture with King Kong. Do stop at the 2nd floor for a curated selection of gifts at the Official Store. You can buy tickets to this exhibit and the observatories through their official website or mobile app. The Empire State Building is open every day from 8 A.M. to 2 A.M.

[Ticket] Check the Empire State Building 86th Floor Observation Deck Ticket from $36.96

Free things to do in NYC

Time Square is not only one of the best location to welcome the New Year, but is also a buzzing crossroad that is often referred to as the crossroad of the world. Take a stroll through the busiest street of New York where at least 330,000 walks every day. Brightly adorned with advertisements and digital billboards, this Neon-lit iconic landmark of Mid-town Manhattan lies on the junction of Broadway and 7th Avenue. Don't forget to pitstop at the M&M and Hershey's stores here. The store is one of its kind around and offers giagantic side candies that are hard to resist. If you happen to be in the City around the new year, don't miss the Ball drop event that attracts over a million visitors every year.

Things to do in manhattan

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must-visit if history fascinates you. The Museum depicts over 5000 years of art collection from across the world. The Museum has 3 locations across New York, and a single ticket will let you visit all the three sites within 5 days. The vast collection of over 2 million artifacts here is spanned over 17 curatorial departments. Find anything and everything from Medieval Art, Roman Art, Eygptian Art, Asian Art, and much more in its 5th Avenue location. The other two museums are The Met Cloister and the Met Breur. While you are here, also pay a visit to the store to discover hundreds of art inspired finds that includes jewelry, textiles and holidays must-haves. Adult admission ticket for the Museum costs $25, and student admission costs about $12.

[Ticket] Check the Metropolitan Museum of Art Highlights and Guided Tour

Free things to do in NYC

Who hasn't heard about the Brooklyn Bridge in New York? One of the most significant structures of the New York Skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge attracts millions of visitors every year. This impressive bridge spans along the East River between Brooklyn and Manhattan and is about 1.8 km. Long. Also, stop by for a photo-op at The most noticeable feature of the Brooklyn Bridge, the two masonry towers to which the many cables are attached. The elevated pedestrian path of the bridge allows you to walk from end to end without being bothered by thousands of vehicles that cross the bridge each day. You can also enjoy a perfect and uninterrupted view of the Manhattan skyline from this historic bridge.

For more info for first time visitor in NYC: Top Best Things to do in NYC

All of these 5 Manhattan attractions can be covered in a single day if you follow the right course. Start your day by visiting the Empire State Building around 8 A.M. and end it with a walk at the Time Square. Book your trip on a hop-on and Hop-off tour to derive maximum mileage from your first visit to this happening City. There are several single-day tours that you can book and cover all these places.

You could take the New York City All Around Town Hop-on Hop-off Tour for the attractions above.

This most northern region of the borough of Manhattan is considered to be the wealthiest neighborhood in the whole of New York by many. If you happen to be in this area, do not miss covering the following areas:

Central Park Zoo & Conservatory Garden: Central Park Zoo has animals pertaining to several environmental zones such as a tropical zone and polar circle. The most popular celebrities here are the polar bears, snow leopards, red pandas, and cutest penguins. Take your little one little further north to the Tisch Children's Zoo for touch and see the experience of domestic animals. Don't forget to stop by the Conservatory Garden in Central Park. This 6 acres formal man-made garden on the North-eastern side of the Park is manicured in French, Italian and English styles and prove to be a real feast for the eyes.

Things to do in manhattan #Upper Manhattan NYC

When you are done roaming in the Central do stop by for a perfect shopping time at the Columbus circle at the southwestern side of the Park. This New York City's prime shop and dining destination at Manhattan is actually a large traffic circle with the statue of Christopher Columbus. The Shops here feature the latest in fashion, home décor, health and technology, and the restaurants put up a delectable lineup of mouthwatering cuisines like the Michael Lomonaco's new Center Bar. So, while you are here, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, stay in a five-star hotel, shop till you drop —all under one luxurious roof to give you a great time!

Things to do in manhattan #Upper Manhattan NYC

If you are in Upper Manhattan, then this is your best chance to see the Met Cloisters. Located in the beautiful Fort Tyron Park, will leave you amazed with its medieval charm. Opened in the year 1938, the Museum has a few not to be missed windows. The Seven Unicorn Tapestries, The Treasury fine collection, The Belles Heures of Jean de France, Duc de Berry manuscripts and The Cloisters Cross are only a few of the magnificent exhibits here at Cloisters that cannot be missed. If you have already taken a ticket to the Mets, you do not require a separate ticket to the Mets Cloisters when you are visiting within 5 days.

Free things to do in NYC #Upper Manhattan NYC

While you are visiting the Met Cloisters, do stop by the neighboring Fort Tyron Park. Located on a cliffy terrain in the Hudson Heights area, the 67-acre massive park great view of the surrounding landscape and the Hudson River too. The 3 acre Heather Garden with magnificent terraces and pedestrian paths is a must-see here.

Things to do in manhattan #Upper Manhattan NYC

There is no better place to test your Salsa skills than at the many Latino nightclubs in Upper Manhattan. After a long day, the uptown clubs like LAVO night club, Iguana Restaurant, and Dance Lounge are a great way to wind down with foot-tapping music. So, put on your dancing shoes and cut a rug at these great joints.

If you happen to be in the region of Harlem in Manhattan, you will have a great time realizing its African American Culture, intimate Jazz clubs, trendy eateries and hip bars that is synonymous with a great nightlife. The area showcases a mix of 19th-century brownstones row houses along with modern-day high rise buildings. A trip covering its main artery, the 125th streets will be exciting.

Free things to do in NYC #Harlem NYC

Have you read the 1942 children's book The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge? This is the same lighthouse and is a great spot to visit for any age. Breathtaking sights of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge along with paved path through Fort Washington park. The lighthouse is not always open to the public, but you could register for a free tour when it's open.

Things to do in manhattan #Harlem NYC

If you haven't tried one of these then you have not tried the best food in Harlem. Immortalized in rap videos like Harlem rapper Cam' ron's video the "Child of the Ghetto," and by Rapper Audubon in his album called "Chopped Cheese" the born chopped cheese sandwich is championed by residents of Harlem. This real New Yorker sandwich is the secret handshake of NYC's bodega cognoscenti and is available at any deli in Harlem like Hajji's, Blue Sky Deli.

Things to do in manhattan #Harlem NYC

If you love Jazz music, then this place is a temple for you. Pay a visit to one of the most important shrines in the history of Jazz, The Minton's Playhouse in Harlem. This Playhouse is where Bebop was born. This is the place where the foundation for modern Jazz was established. Founded in the year 1938 by the saxophonist Henry Minton, The Minton's Playhouse became the setting for a revolution in Jazz. Enjoy a gourmet menu over the classic live jazz performances from the in-house band. As for the chef Banks White's food, you can choose between $90 and $55 Prix fixed southern-inspired, great-tasting menu.

Things to do in manhattan #Harlem NYC

The Apollo Theatre has played an integral role in the history of Jazz, swing, gospel,blues, and soul music, and is also one of the top things to do not only in Harlem but in New York too. It all started when the theatre first introduced its famous Amateur Nights in the year 1934. Since then, the theatre has been host to many prominent artists like James Brown, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Lauryn Hill and served as a launchpad for their stardom. Explore the legendary history of this theatre and gain behind-the-scenes access to its iconic and enduring music halls when you go on a tour in this theatre that connects the past, present and future in the entertaining voice of Billy "Mr. Apollo" Mitchell.

The cozy Upper West Side is a great place to be and visit. The area showcases many historical architectural buildings, traditional, small local shops and a wealth of famous cultural institutions. Added to this is the proximity to two of the City's significant parks, making it a must-visit destination. Here is an Upper West Side exciting things to do curated list for you.

Free things to do in NYC #Upper West Side NYC

This Museum of Natural History is undoubtedly a New York pride. The Museum showcases of development of the entire planet and presents a panorama of the world's cultures. The American Museum of Natural History is open from 10 A.M. to 5.45 P.M. every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Dinosaur wing and life-size model of Blue Whale is a must-see if you are visiting the Museum with kids.

[Ticket] American Museum of Natural History Ticket from $ 15

Things to do in manhattan #Upper West Side NYC

Popularly known as the Mets Opera is the world's grandest stage showcasing renown artists of different genre, live in the heart of Lincoln Centre. Performances and classic shows run six days a week, every September to May. There is no dress code to see the shows, but a night here at the opera can be a great excuse to get dressed up! Try and go on one of the backstage tours during the Met Opera season for a closer look at the carpentry shops, rehearsal rooms, dressing rooms, and even the stage area. Tickets to the Metropolitan Opera House start as low as $25.

Free things to do in NYC #Upper West Side NYC

When bored, make a trip to the Upper West Side local markets. The local markets here features a host of local produce, and also some featured markets go much beyond local produce, like the Grand Bazaar NYC. This is one big, an original, diverse, unique local market that has everything, from the hand made to hand-picked. The market is held every Sunday, year round at Columbus Ave. Manhattan from 10 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. Apart from providing much needed retail space for the local artisans and dealers, the market also helps the local schools by sharing profits with them.

Related Reading: 10 Fabulous Culinary in Chelsea Market, Manhattan

Free things to do in NYC #Upper West Side NYC

The streets of Upper West Wide showcase the traditional brick houses. It is a pleasant sight to see the uniform brick color of these houses. Walk by the streets while sipping a Latte and admire the cozy look of these apartments.

Things to do in manhattan #Upper West Side NYC

Right at the heart of the Rose Center for Earth and Space, you will find an 87 feet diameter sphere afloat inside a glass cube. The upper half of this sphere is the Hayden Planetarium. This 429 seater space theatre was opened in the year 2000, and since then it remains pivotal in Astrophysics education. The Planetarium uses high-resolution full-dome video along with customized Zeiss Star Projector system to project its space shows. The bottom half-sphere showcases Big Bang Theater that depicts the birth of the universe in a four-minute program.

This posh, residential Upper East Side of Manhattan attracts many visitors like you to have a good time at the area's wealthy denizen, designer stores, and fancy restaurants along its iconic Madison Avenue. Another popular must-see place here is the Museum Mile that has a lineup of museums. The Upper East Side speads between Central Park, Fifth Avenue and East River, 96th Street and is a great place to keep you entertained if you happen to be in the neighborhood. Here are a few activities that you can try while you are here:

Free things to do in NYC #Upper East Side NYC

Nothing can beat the feeling of a bike round around Central Park during the early morning. The City's iconic Central Park has many entrances along its perimeter. When you are around Fifth Avenue side of Manhattan, you can enter the Park from among the more than 20 entrances between 60th and 110th Streets. Once, you are here, go for a jolly good bike ride around the perimeter of the Park. The ride typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour is feels best during the early morning. The bikes are available on rent in the Park and remember, the first 30 minutes of the ride is included in the day pass price, and any additional time is charged for $4 for every 15 minutes.

Things to do in manhattan #Upper East Side NYC

If you are in New York City for a short stay and plan on cramming in lots of sightseeing, Museum Mile is a must. The stretch has 8 museums and Metropolitan Museum of Art, National Academy Museum and School of Fine Arts, Museum of the City of New York, El Museo del Barrio being some of them. The tree-lined walk along the street is an excellent sight.

Free things to do in NYC #Upper East Side NYC

The 5th Avenue and Madison are one of the most luxurious stretches of retail in the US and, also is the main artery of New York City's shopping scene for over 100 years now. This section of Upper East Side that stretches between 49th and 60th streets offers something for everyone with its brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Victoria's Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch, upscale stores such as Bergdorf Goodman and even multinational retailers like Zara and Uniqlo. Each of these high-end stores has its own ornamental display window, drawing many visitors for a perfect window shopping time.

Free things to do in NYC #Upper East Side NYC

If reading is your favorite pass time, you are in the right place for a feast. Make a trip to the Strand Book Store, located just off Union Square for an overwhelming collection of books. The store has every kind imaginable book, from art books to historical tomes, from novels to memoirs, at a great discounted price. The Strand Bookstore showcases 18 miles of 2 million new and used books, and also a rare-book collection in a connected building for all book worms.

What If you find yourself in need of a caffeine fix between museum visits or window shopping? Well, you are in the right place!! The Upper East Side has a sprawling network for wonderful coffee shops. Stop by at Bluestone Lane, an excellent Australian Coffee place with even a brunch menu and patio seating. Oslo Coffee Roasters is another local favorite for an excellent Americano, Cold brew or its famous Cortado.

The heart of Manhattan, the Midtown area of Manhattan, is home to some of the most iconic buildings of the United States. It is also the largest Central Business District and is home to the iconic Skyline. Apart from the Empire State Building and the Time Square that we covered in the first section of this guide, here is a list of few more not to be missed thing around here:

Free things to do in NYC #Midtown NYC

In this expensive area, where everything comes at a high price, the High Line walk is absolutely free! The Park is built on a historic freight rail line that is elevated above the streets of Manhattan is a hybrid public space flanked by colorful plants on both sides. Enjoy the winter color of this beautiful foliage when you walk the distance. There are several ledges to sit and enjoy nature, art, and view.

Free things to do in NYC #Midtown NYC

Even if you don't have train travel in your cards, a visit to the iconic transit hub is a must in your Manhattan visit. There are even tours that walk you through the history of this building. Enjoy this massive structure that has a lot to offer, from quick bite delicacies to free art events in Vanderbilt hall. The cathedral shaped terminal has 60 shops, 35 eateries, and a full calendar of events all under one magnificent roof! Cover them all!

Free things to do in NYC #Midtown NYC

The United Nations Headquarters is located in the heart of Manhattan. Get a guided tour of this world organization. The guided tour is for a duration of 1 hour and is carried out in all official languages on the United Nations. The tour mainly focuses on history and working of the UN and also takes you to see the General Secretary hall as well as the Security Council Chamber. Please make a note that children under 5 years of age are not allowed to the tour.

Things to do in manhattan #Midtown NYC

The Broadway Musical is the center of attraction of the New York art scene. No visit to New York is complete without experiencing the Broadway Musical shows like Chicago, Frozen, Alladin and Phantom of the Opera available in Midtown Manhattan's Theatre District. Here, dozens of historic venues stage bold new musicals, long-running hits, and classical dramas every night of the week. Make sure you catch atleast one show here for that enigmatic experience.

[Tickets] Frozen Broadway Musical Ticket in New York

Free things to do in NYC #Midtown NYC

Manhattan night is magical. To catch a glimpse of the world-famous Manhattan Skyline in the night. Walk by the streets of the Skyline and walk on the pavements of iconic buildings of the Skyline like the Empire State Building, Bank Of America Tower, One World Trade Center, and the Chrysler tower. One World Observatory, Old Pier One, and Brooklyn Bridge also have excellent vantage points to see the Skyline.

Upcoming: Manhattan skyline 2019 and top 8 best view points

The East Village of Manhattan is popular for its vibrant nightlife. Vintage bars, musical nights, and performance spaces along with lots of eateries define this place at night. During the day, you can browse through the many boutiques and stores here and stop by the tattoo parlors here, if inking interests you. Make sure you make a pit stop at Veselka, a Ukrainian restaurant that's been around since 1954 and serves best-cornered beef hash in the region. Here is a list of things you can do in the East Village parts of Manhattan:

Free things to do in NYC #East Village NYC

The St. Marks Place is an East Village neighborhood that is aruguably the most happening street around here. The street is known for its bursting cultural origin and also has many vintage retail shops, street vendors, restaurants as well as nightlife. Some of the street's most famous landmarks like the Gem Spa, St. Mark's Comics and St. Mark's Hotel are still around spreading the gritty and authentic feel of the area. Walkthrough the streets here and spend some time at the night scene here listening to the stories of St.Mark Church in the Bowery.

Things to do in manhattan #East Village NYC

What is so special about the Merchant's House Museum? Well, this is the only 19th-century house that has been persevered intact to give us a glimpse into the lifestyle at that time. Built-in the year1832, the house depicts the domestic life of a wealthy merchant family and their Irish servants during the pivotal Colonial era. The house has complete original possessions of the owners, making it a unique time capsule of the affluent families of that time. Take a peek into their lives!

Free things to do in NYC #East Village NYC

Tried of large brands, chain stores, and their apparel? Well, its time to try something new and unique at East Village. The 9th street of the East village offers one of its kind stores that prove to be a great place for vintage shopping. This is the right place to shop for all fashionistas and for people who crave for a unique style. This reputed hub of small businesses has stores like the Cobblestones. The Cobblestones has a rare collection of separates,shoes, hats, and accessories that gives you the retro feeling of stepping into the classic New York City Era. Fabulous Fanny is yet another store here that has spectacles styles and frames dating as far back as the 1700s. You can also shop for vintage sunglasses here.

Things to do in manhattan #East Village NYC

The East Village also boasts of its Asian dining options. It all began in 1980 when the many Asian restaurants began to simmer in the East Village, all thanks to Global community and low rental prices here. Your options for a hearty homestyle Asian dining experience here is provided by many Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Filipino, and Asian fusion restaurants. The nearby student community from the university are their main patrons, and David Chang's Momofuku Noodle Bar is the most famous restaurant around here.

Things to do in manhattan #East Village NYC

Bad Hangover from last night's party? No worries, the East Village has a perfect natural remedy. Try a Russian and Turkish Bath place around here. Sweat, relax, meditate and unwind at the many sauna's here in the East Village's Russian and Turkish Bath place. These baths offer refreshing and rejuvenating experiences like massages, salt and mud treatments, detox, and the world-reknowned platza. The bath is open 365 days a year during different times of the day. Please note that the place is open for only men or for only women on certain days. Refer to their official website for all the information.

The Lower Manhatten is the most happening place when it comes to history and trade. The must-see list here includes South Street Seaport, Century 21, the famous New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall. The area is also home to the 9/11 memorial.

Free things to do in NYC #Lower Manhattan NYC

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum which is also known as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a site developed commemorating the September 11, 2001 attacks. The attacks killed 2996 people, and the twin towers came down during the devastating attacks. This memorial is built on twin town area that came down. The Memorial and Museum is underground and has incredible displays narrating the whole incident, including the Pentagon attack and the plane that crashed in Pennsylvania through interactive exhibits. The 110,000 square feet of exhibits is a must-visit! The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is open to the public since May 21, 2014, and is accessible daily from 7:30 A.M. to 9 P.M. Visitor passes are no longer required.

Brookfield Place is a fantastic destination to shop, dine, and even enjoy some water sports. The mall features dozens of high-end luxury stores and a variety of well-known restaurants, all under one roof. There is no other place like the Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan's Battery Park City. Many food courts overlooking the sea is a place not to be missed. Stop by on your way to 9/11 Museum & Memorial for a scrumptious lunch. The BFPL is open 6 days a week from 10 A. M. to 8 P.M., and on Sunday, it is open from 12 P.M. to 6 P.M.

Free things to do in NYC #Lower Manhattan NYC

We have all seen and heard about the Charging Bull Bronz sculpture at Bowling Green in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. Well, now its time to take a picture with the same. The Bull, created by Sicilian artist Arturo Di Modica, reminds many to keep charging inspite of bad times after a market crash. This massive bull is a celebrity till date, and hundreds of people strike a pose with the Charging Bull of Wall Street every day.

Free things to do in NYC #Lower Manhattan NYC

When you sit at the shores of Battery Park, you can catch a clear glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, the American Iconic colossal Statue. No trip to the City of New York is complete without seeing the Liberty statue. If you cannot go all the way to the liberty island, get a glimpse of the State from the far off of the shore. In case you decide to visit the island, you can take ferries that start from areas, to reach Liberty Island. One ferry starts from the Battery Park of the Lower Manhattan, and another one begins from the New Jersey side, from the Liberty State Park.

Things to do in manhattan #Lower Manhattan NYC

Looking for old world charm in the heart of Manhattan? Well, you got it! Nothing beats Stone Street when it comes to scrumptious meals and cocktails. The street earned its name as it was the first street to be paved with stone back in the year 1658. The restored lofts and warehouses from that time have been converted to restaurants. Get ready for delicious eats and lovely hot drinks that you can enjoy in winter.

Things to do in manhattan

There are few other things that you can enjoy if you have extra time, like visiting the Rockefeller Center, St. Patricks Cathedral and Intrepit Sea, Air and Space Museum. Download the official app of the City for updated information on the attractions. We hope this guide will be helpful for you to have a great time in Manhattan and in New York. Finally, to get around the City, the Subway is a great way. There are also hundreds of cabs available to take you around. Get used to swiping your subway card and hailing a cab. Carefully plan your itinerary to make the most of your Manhattan. Happy holidays!

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