Things You'll Need:
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen
- Perhaps a swimsuit
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Step 1
In Central Park, plan a picnic for the SummerStage program. Absorb an author's reading, stand up comedy, a dance concert, or a film festival. See one of the many free musical acts from salsa to African to ska. Events happen all throughout the week both in the afternoon and in the evening.
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Step 2
Free music is never ending in New York, no matter what your preference. The New York Philharmonic performs for free at different venues all throughout July. For something swanky and free, sip some chilled wine as The Metropolitan Opera performs at Prospect Park bringing opera to the masses.
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Step 3
Bryant Park is home to dozens of free events. You've probably seen the free concerts hosted in Bryant Park on Good Morning America. Every Monday night catch a free classic flick on the lawn at Bryant Park. The lawn opens at 5 pm for picnicking and socializing and films start between 8 and 9pm. There are also free yoga and tai chi classes, sunset knitting groups, kids programs, writers groups and more.
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Step 4
New York City and theater are synonymous. Check out free performances of "Ain't Supposed to Die a Natural Death" touring NYC parks through August. See "Hair" at Delacourt Theater in Central Park beneath the stars, also running through August.
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Step 5
Go for a swim. Free public pools can be found in all corners of New York. The coolest one by far is the Neptune Foundation's floating pool. The pool is built into a barge docked in the Bronx, admission is free and so are swimming lessons.
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Step 6
Take Justin Ferate's free walking tour of the Grand Central Station neighborhood. Tours gather at 12:30 every Friday. Meet on 42nd Street in front of the Altria/Whitney Museum across the street from Grand Central. Big Apple Greeters also offer free, personalized walking tours. They show you the ins and outs of public transportation and tipping is not allowed.
