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Best 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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Travellers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travellers across the globe.
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637 results sorted by traveller favourites
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
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Showing results 1-30 of 637

What travellers are saying

  • BoMama
    Southern Pines, NC59 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Walked from SE corner to Tavern On The Green. Lots to see and do. Took photos of the bridge. Rode the carousel. Outdoor ice skating rink looked popular. Trails walkable and safe. Central Park is for all seasons!
    Written January 22, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Christophe B
    Quebec City, Canada1,029 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Easily my favorite free activity and urban walk in NY. I started up north the path all the way to Chelsea. A 30min, easy walk with great views of the buzzing city. Well worth your time.
    Written January 14, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Anson Q
    Lugoff, SC7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We were swept away by the lively nightlife, with dazzling lights and the buzz of excitement all around us. We wandered hand in hand, soaking in the energy of street performers and the aroma of delicious food carts. From catching a glimpse of a Broadway show to dancing in the streets, every moment felt exhilarating. Times Square is a feast for the senses, and we left with our hearts racing and smiles plastered on our faces. What a night to remember!
    Written January 19, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kassia Lisa
    Valdosta, GA9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Entering Grand Central felt like stepping into a timeless masterpiece. The stunning architecture took our breath away! We wandered through the iconic concourse, sharing whispers and laughter. The celestial dome above us made it feel like we were in a dream.
    Written January 19, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Bailey-Hogg
    London, UK79 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great iconic place to visit and is beautiful and free. Best time to visit for pictures would be very early morning for sunrise before 7am.
    Written January 21, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sonsli U
    12 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    If i was rich, I’d live there. Superb? I felt as if Fred Astaire were on my arm, or Gene Kelly dancing me down the street—just dancing, or singing in the rain.
    Written January 14, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Hospitality Mystery Shopping
    Sunderland, UK199 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Statem Island ferry is a great way to see lower manhattan. Free to use. Easily accessible from South ferry train station located next to Pearl St. Broad St and water St
    Written January 19, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Free Spirit
    Bearsted, UK104 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had a good time in Chelsea market, good food options for everyone including vegan and vegetarian. Our teens loved the food options.
    Written January 21, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • CarolusvL
    The Hague, The Netherlands213 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A classic building with interesting artifacts in a free exhibit, all displayed with care and clear informational texts.
    Written January 20, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Travelozzy
    Bicester, UK1,096 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our second journey to the Top of the Rock and it was great - brilliant views and great photo opportunities

    My favourite observation deck in NYC because of the history and that view over Central Park
    Written January 10, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Fire Island Limo of Long Island NY & NYC
    Freeport, NY14 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great day with this Special Family enjoying there time in New York City visiting all the Holiday Christmas Lights with Limousine Transportation included. Call us anytime for a Holiday Tour Package at (631)-567-3333
    Written January 21, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jack M
    Welwyn Garden City, UK33 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Impressive, whether you look at it during the day or at night it is definitely worth having a look at the Manhattan Skyline.
    Written January 7, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Hospitality Mystery Shopping
    Sunderland, UK199 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Lovely building in financial district located right next to World trade Centre. Has own train station with runs the 1 train from South ferry via WTC up to midtown manhattan. Loads of shops ample seating which look like giant pearls loads of police and national guard around. Nice place to visit
    Written January 19, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Moochie-La-La
    Calgary, Canada741 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Catholics and non-Catholics alike are welcome to visit this incredible Cathedral, right downtown Manhattan. The majesty and detail in every corner is impressive. Really gorgeous structure!
    Written January 19, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Thomas V
    Oakland, CA18,946 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Always fun to come here as there are so many charming tree-lined streets. You will find many good restaurants and fun bars. it's an area well-served by public transit. It's used to be very much a village, a special corner of the city. Over-gentrification changed that, lots of unique businesses got priced out. But the area retains its charm and is still a lot of fun.
    Written August 24, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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