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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636 places sorted by traveller favourites
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.
Showing results 1-30 of 636

What travellers are saying

  • hsasmith
    Newcastle upon Tyne, UK848 contributions
    I love this park and still don't feel like I've seen everything in it. It's very quite and peaceful and a great place to get away from the noise of times square etc
    Written November 26, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • hsasmith
    Newcastle upon Tyne, UK848 contributions
    This was a great walk. It was peaceful and enough space to people watch. Was busy but didn't feel rushed, and still very pretty with the autumn colours
    Written November 26, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Travel R
    Rochester, MN1,709 contributions
    Nice area and while there is a homeless presence I think rates we never felt unsafe.ots of people around and well lit and fun atmosphere.
    Written November 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • hsasmith
    Newcastle upon Tyne, UK848 contributions
    Loved walking across the bridge. Great views of the city. Lots of people selling souvenirs and it was very busy in places.
    Written November 26, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • CColumbus
    Jacksonville, FL662 contributions
    Just the architecture alone is worth the visit. It’s really a beautiful train station in the heart of Manhattan. Best place to ride the subway lots of different routes from here and direct to Jersey 👍
    Written November 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Diana F
    3 contributions
    Manhattan skyline is not just a bunch of buildings. It's like a beautiful piece of art that shows what people can do when they work hard. It proves that people can bounce back from tough times, and it reflects the strong and determined attitude of the city that always encourages others. Whether you're a newcomer or someone who knows the city well, the special feeling you get from the Manhattan skyline is like a timeless magic that stays with you forever. It leaves a lasting mark on your heart, no matter who you are.
    Written November 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Travel R
    Rochester, MN1,709 contributions
    Very crowded but never felt unsafe. Is some homeless presence but they were not aggressive and there was likewise a police presence. Best seen at night.
    Written November 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Wanderer581490
    113 contributions
    This is a fantastic way to see the Statue of Liberty without any extra cost. New York can be so expensive, so this is great. The ferry service was used by locals as well as tourists. There wasn’t a great demand for outside seating but that could be because it was a cold time of year. As a result, I had ample opportunities both ways to take plenty of pictures. Highly recommend!
    Written November 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • KK78
    Bay Shore, NY677 contributions
    Came here on Black Friday to stroll around the winter/Christmas Village. Wow, was it crowded! There were lines for everything and it was hard to walk around and enjoy it. Shame because it was really cute and I would have loved to try some of the food vendors - some had lines of 15-30 people and there was no where available to sit in eat. I would suggest you come with your patience, pocketbook and not on an empty stomach!
    Written November 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Travel R
    Rochester, MN1,709 contributions
    Iconic area especially in the winter but always something going on. Lots to do nearby in so far as shopping and eating…..
    Written November 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • hsasmith
    Newcastle upon Tyne, UK848 contributions
    Lovely church. Visited on a Sunday when Mass was taking place which was very interesting. The stain glass windows were amazing
    Written November 26, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ralph Wilhelm
    Carmel, IN765 contributions
    The Primary, Main New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue and 42nd street (backs up on the east side of Bryant Park) is extraordinary and special. It would take all day to view the various collections and rooms and exhibits that are there. Of course, a few rooms are blocked off for use only by scholars and those doing research but the collection of rare books and manuscripts is truly special. Further a significant wall exhibit with thirty to fifty photographs of the history of the Equal Rights Amendment is really quite something to walk through, read, and learn. Also the Gutenberg Bible from the mid-1400s with its hand-inked initials is quite mind-blowing (most likely the oldest book in their collection.) And be sure to take the free audio tour and digital guide...truly special. This is one extraordinary place to spend time in NYC.
    Written November 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Adventure Diva
    Manchester, CT2,111 contributions
    This former Nabisco factory complex invented and produced the famed Oreo cookie . The old building was gutted out in the 90s and transformed into a market that is alive and well. It can get crowded quickly so try to go on the off hours when they open in the morning or after lunch.
    Written November 15, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • therichastill
    Stevenage, UK2,521 contributions
    Sting did a song called "Englishman in New York" which I believe is about Quentin Crisp. In the song he talks about walking down 5th Avenue so I was keen to check it out.

    The road stretches from the Upper East Side south through Midtown and onwards.

    There are a few swanky shops on the road including Bloomingdales and Saks. There is also St Patrick's Cathedral and Rockerfeller Plaza.

    Worth checking out on your visit to the city.
    Written October 22, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jack
    Old Bethpage, NY760 contributions
    Iconic and futuristic mall. The Oculus is a must visit in downtown. It is full of stores, restaurants, and more. I highly recommend!
    Written November 19, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.