Budget-Friendly Family Fun in Downtown Manhattan

Sometimes you and the kids just need to get out of the apartment and do something, even if the budget is extremely tight. Being active is always good for the health and well-being of any family unit, and the TV can't ever replace the good old family outing. There are a few great spots to hit, some for little to no money, which will give your family some quality time together and keep you from overspending.

On Manhattan's west side between Gansevoort Street and 20th Street sits the first finished section of the High Line, an elevated park developed on a retired raised railroad that, when completed, will float above Manhattan's Meat Packing District, West Chelsea and Clinton/Hell's Kitchen neighborhoods. Artistically conceived concrete pathways line natural garden landscapes and interesting lounging areas. Meander through the inspiring architectural feat and take in some amazing views of the city. The park is open every day from 7 am to 8 pm.

For an inexpensive cultural family experience head down to 235 Bowery at Prince Street for new American and international art at the New Museum . From painting and sculpture to video and installation pieces, the museum has something to offer for the whole family. Current exhibitions include a 28 foot contemporary sculpture by artist Isa Genzken and a creative look into how we describe we describe the world around us in the exhibition The Last Newspaper. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays but is open from 11 am to 6 pm the rest of the week, with extended hours until 9 pm on Thursdays. General admission is $12 for adults but free for anyone 18 years old and under.

For a special family treat after a day of adventure stop by Stand restaurant 24 East 12th Street between University Place and 5th Avenue. With reasonably priced gourmet burgers, most around $10, and a hip and modern diner atmosphere, it's a great finish to a day in NYC's Village. Their offering of milkshakes cannot be ignored and at least one member of your party needs to order the toasted marshmallow milkshake. There is also a less expensive kid's portioned meal for $8 that's great for keeping the meal's cost and waste on the lower end. Stand is open noon to midnight seven days a week.

Raising a family requires a great deal of time, energy and budgeting. Spending quality time outside of the house or apartment is necessary though and, even in an era of tight budgets, it's possible to create an interesting adventure and avoid emptying your wallet. NYC can be an expensive place to live and play, but if you look hard enough there are some great experiences that don't have to cost an arm and a leg.

Sources:
The High Line, http://www.thehighline.org/about/park-information.
New Museum, http://www.newmuseum.org/about/.
Stand, http://www.standburger.com/tostay.html.