How to See New York City Free

Visiting New York City doesn't have to be expensive. You can visit many of New York's attractions and landmarks at no cost. If you're not sure where to start or you don't want to go it alone, Big Apple Greeters can help. This volunteer organization teaches you how to use the public transit system and can show you New York City though the eyes of a veteran New Yorker.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

See New York City With a Big Apple Greeter

1. List the attractions you would like to see in New York.

2. Make arrangements to meet a Big Apple Greeter by visiting the group's website. You will get a tour of the city and a day's pass for the subway or bus.

3. Tell your Big Apple Greeter which section of New York City interests you and he or she will make sure you are able to visit and learn about it.

See New York City Free Without a Tour Guide

4. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge. You'll get terrific views of the New York skyline as you explore the structure of the bridge.

5. Sail the harbor on the Staten Island Ferry. This is free and takes you to and from Staten Island and by the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Governor's Island as well as many other sites.

6. Visit Times Square. This place is busy day or night and offers many entertaining sights.

7. Stroll through Central Park. There are usually art displays and street performers for your entertainment. You may even see the filming of a commercial, movie or television show.

8. Take in a show. It doesn't have to be a Broadway show. Talk shows such as Saturday Night Live, Late Night with David Letterman, The Today Show and Good Morning America are free.

9. Enjoy an outdoor concert at Lincoln Center or Central Park. Many of them are free.

10. Tour an art museum. The Steuben Gallery, the Museum of American Folk Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim offer free exhibits. Others offer "pay what you wish" and free nights.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to attend a talk show, you may be better off requesting tickets in advance. Instructions for how to request tickets are usually included on the show's website.
• Do not tip your Big Apple Greeter. They are not allowed to accept tips.

Resources

• Find a Big Apple Greeter.