Think New York City is only for big spenders? Think again. While it’s famous for Broadway lights and pricey rooftop bars, the Big Apple also hides a treasure trove of experiences that won’t cost a dime—or barely more than a MetroCard swipe. From peaceful riverside parks on the Upper East Side to quirky art galleries tucked downtown, you’ll find cheap things to do in NYC that are just as memorable as the bucket-list attractions.
Whether you’re after ocean breezes, street performances, or skyline views, this city offers fun cheap things to do in NYC for every kind of explorer. And if you crave a local’s-eye view, Queens and Brooklyn will surprise you with hidden gems far from the tourist crush. Get ready to picnic, explore, and wander without worry—because we’ve curated the best cheap things to do in NYC that prove fun doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.
1. Skyscraper Dreams & Skyline Scenes
A trip to New York isn’t complete without heading up the iconic Empire State Building—an absolute bucket-list experience and one of the best cheap things to do in NYC (especially with a sightseeing pass!). Completed in 1931, this 1,250-foot marvel reigned as the world’s tallest building for 40 years. Located on West 34th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue, it’s easy to find and even easier to love.
The main observation deck on the 86th floor offers incredible panoramic views—and at $48 USD, it’s the better-value option over the pricier 102nd-floor deck. If you’ve snagged a Go City, New York Pass, or CityPASS®, your entry’s covered! We recommend allowing 2–3 hours to fully soak up the views, snap unforgettable photos, and simply enjoy the moment. It’s the kind of fun cheap thing to do in NYC that feels far from budget. Iconic, cinematic, and unforgettable, it’s a shining symbol of the city—and of cheap things to do in NYC that still feel rich.
2. Explore NYC on Foot—for (Almost) Free
Free walking tours are one of the smartest ways to explore NYC’s diverse neighborhoods while uncovering local tips for food, shopping, and hidden gems. Popular tours include the downtown route (Wall Street, 9/11 Memorial, Battery Park) offered at 10 am on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Harlem tour dives into civil rights history and jazz roots, featuring landmarks like the Apollo Theater and top soul food stops; a $3 online booking fee is optional.
For pop culture lovers, the SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown tour runs Fridays, Saturdays, and daily in summer at 9:45 am, revealing immigrant history and iconic film locations. Or try the 3-hour Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights, and DUMBO tour (9 am daily) for stunning views and about 2.5 miles of scenic walking. Tipping your guide $5–$10 USD is customary and well-deserved. Each tour offers a unique slice of New York and is a fantastic way to see a lot without spending much—just don’t forget comfy shoes!
3. A Powerful Tribute at Ground Zero
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors the lives lost during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The Memorial is free to visit and features two large reflecting pools in the footprints of the Twin Towers. Each pool is surrounded by bronze panels engraved with the victims’ names.
The Museum, located beneath the Memorial, holds over 70,000 artifacts and emotional multimedia exhibits. Standard entry costs $33 USD. Lines can be long, so it’s best to buy tickets online in advance.
For a deeper understanding, consider the walking tour led by guides personally connected to the attacks. The tour includes the Memorial Garden and St. Paul’s Chapel—miraculously unharmed during the collapse and used as a rescue center.
The walking tour alone costs $39 USD, or $79 USD with skip-the-line museum access. Visiting this site is a sobering, emotional experience that brings history to life through personal stories and powerful displays. It’s also one of the best cheap things to do in NYC for a meaningful day.
4. Scenic Stroll Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is a classic New York experience—and completely free. The bridge stretches 1.1 miles (1.8 km) and takes about an hour to cross at a relaxed pace.
From Midtown, it’s around an hour’s walk to the bridge, or you can take the subway to Chambers Street Station or Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall.
It’s one of the most fun cheap things to do in NYC, offering stunning skyline views and photo-worthy moments along the way. While the walk is easy, it can get crowded, especially in summer—so go early if you can.
Vendors are often set up along the path, making it easy to grab a cold drink or snack. Enjoying breakfast with views of the East River is a great way to start the day.
Once you reach Brooklyn, explore the nearby neighborhoods or take the subway back from High Street–Brooklyn Bridge Station. Either way, it’s a refreshing and memorable experience.
Related Read: 15 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn with Kids That’ll Spark Joy and Adventure
5. Wander Through Central Park’s Hidden Corners
Central Park is one of New York’s most iconic spots—an escape into nature right in the heart of Manhattan. Covering 1.3 square miles (3.4 sq km), it’s too big to explore in one go, so plan ahead.
Start with a walk down the Central Park Mall, relax at Sheep Meadow, or enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Conservatory Garden—all completely free. If you’re short on time, allow at least 3 hours for a solid visit.
Traveling with kids? The Central Park Zoo is a great stop. For just $20 USD, you can see snow leopards, sea lions, and exotic birds. Book tickets online to skip the line.
Want to see more without walking too much? Try a guided pedicab tour for $50 USD per hour. It’s a fun way to discover famous spots like Strawberry Fields, Bethesda Fountain, and the bridge from Home Alone.
Exploring Central Park ranks among the best cheap things to do in NYC, and a pedicab ride adds charm to one of the most fun cheap things to do in NYC.
6. Free Art and History in the City
New York is packed with incredible museums—and many offer free entry if you go at the right time. It’s one of the best cheap things to do in NYC, especially on a rainy day.
Start with the National Immigration Museum on Ellis Island, which is included in your ferry ticket to Liberty Island. Arrive early to visit both the museum and the Statue of Liberty. The exhibits here bring immigration stories to life in a powerful way.
The 9/11 Museum is another must-visit. General entry costs $33 USD, but on Mondays from 5:30–7 pm, you can get in for free. Bookings open at 7 am that same day, so set a reminder.
Love books and history? Visit the Morgan Library and Museum on Fridays between 5–7 pm with a reservation. The Bronx Museum of the Arts is always free, and the Guggenheim has pay-what-you-wish entry on Saturdays from 5–8 pm.
Visiting museums on their free days is one of the most fun cheap things to do in NYC and a great way to enjoy culture without overspending.
Related Read: Here Are 20 Must-See Museums in NYC That Are Truly Worth Your Time
7. Taste Your Way Through NYC
Food tours might seem pricey at first, but they offer great value. You’re getting a full meal and a guided city tour in one. It’s one of those cheap things to do in NYC that feels like a splurge.
In Greenwich Village, we joined a 3-hour food tour that cost $95 USD. It included stops at 7 different spots—from cozy cupcake shops to famous pizzerias. Our guide also shared stories about historic places like the Stonewall Inn, adding depth to the experience.
For something more diverse, try the Chinatown and Little Italy food tour. It costs $99 USD per person and includes four family-owned eateries. It’s a small group tour, so it feels personal, and the guide really knew the neighborhoods well.
We left both tours feeling completely full and way more connected to the local culture. If you love food and history, this is a tasty and satisfying way to explore the city.
8. Catch a Yankees Game in the Bronx
Seeing the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium is a classic city experience. Even if you’re not into baseball, the energy in the stadium is contagious.
Games run from late March through October. Ticket prices start at $39 USD, but costs can vary depending on the teams playing and where you sit.
The stadium is in the Bronx and has its own subway stop, making it super easy to reach. Once inside, you’ll find plenty of food vendors. A hot dog costs about $6 USD, and a large beer runs around $15 USD—but it’s part of the experience.
The crowd, the music, and the iconic pinstripes make for a fun evening out. Watching a Yankees game is one of the best cheap things to do in NYC that gives you a true taste of American sports culture without breaking the bank.
9. Step Back in Time at McSorley’s Old Ale House
McSorley’s Old Ale House has been around since 1854. It’s the oldest pub in New York City and still holds onto its gritty, no-frills charm.
Founded by Irish immigrant John McSorley, it even stayed open during Prohibition by serving watered-down “near beer.” Legend has it the beer was brewed in bathtubs!
Famous guests include Abraham Lincoln and Harry Houdini—whose handcuffs still hang from the rafters. You’ll also spot a real “wanted” poster for John Wilkes Booth on the wall.
The bar still tosses sawdust on the floor, just like in the old days. And when it comes to drinks, you’ve got two options: light or dark beer. No cocktails, no fancy mixers—just old-school tradition.
A round costs $8 USD, but you get two beers at once, making it one of the best cheap things to do in NYC for beer lovers and history buffs alike.
You’ll find it on East 7th Street, just 3 minutes from Astor Place subway station.
10. Sky-High Views from The Edge or Summit One
For jaw-dropping city views, head to either The Edge or Summit One. You only need to pick one, as both are unforgettable.
The Edge is on the 100th floor of 30 Hudson Yards. It has angled glass walls and a glass floor section that lets you look straight down—great for thrill-seekers. Tickets cost about $42 USD. The elevator ride takes less than a minute, and there’s an indoor/outdoor bar and a lounge on the 101st floor. It’s open from 10 am to 9 pm, and you’ll need to book in advance.
Summit One, on the other hand, is a high-tech experience across three floors of One Vanderbilt. It has floor-to-ceiling glass and incredible Empire State Building views. There are glass boxes, VR zones, and mirrors for interactive art fun. Tickets range from $46–$58 USD depending on the day, with entry from 9 am to 10 pm.
Both offer unforgettable skyline moments and easily count among the best cheap things to do in NYC. For tech lovers, Summit One stands out as one of the most fun cheap things to do in NYC.
