The New York City Traveler

10 Free Things to Do in New York City

by Heather on April 21st, 2008

New York City is known as one of the priciest cities in the world, but there is a huge selection of fun activities that don’t cost a thing!  Here is a list of 10 free finds in the city– in no particular order.

1. Staten Island Ferry  Why pay for a harbor cruise when you can do like the New Yorkers and take the Staten Island Ferry. 
2. Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology  While The Metropolitan Museum of Art may charge an arm and a leg, this hip joint is always free.
3. New York Public Library  Branches all over the city offer free author readings, art exhibits, Internet, and film screenings.  Or just relax and enjoy the ambiance in The Rose Room at the Main Branch.
4. Attend a T.V. taping  New York isn’t Hollywood, but it still has its share shows taped in the city.  The Daily Show, The Colbert Report, The View, Saturday Night Live, and Live with Regis and Kelly, just to name a few.
5. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge  See the bridge up close and check out amazing views of Lower Manhattan.       
6. Central Park  This 843 acre park is the crown jewel in the sometimes-hectic city.  Take a stroll by Turtle Pond, Strawberry Fields, Bethesda Fountain, or join a game of Frisbee at The Great Lawn.
7. Take a tour with a Big Apple Greeter  Explore New York’s unique neighborhoods with your very own local tour guide, a “real” New Yorker.  Two hour tours are free and there is a “no tipping” policy.
8. Go to church Check out the architecture of St Patrick’s Cathedral or head out to Brooklyn for a Sunday gospel service at Abyssinian Baptist Church.
9. Visit art galleries  Stop by one of the over one hundred art galleries in Chelsea for some of the most avant-garde art ever seen.   
10. The New York City Downtown Public Boathouse  Free kayaking and other activities are offered.  You need only to know how to swim.

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