Free Things to Do in New York City

Carrine Guillaume
New York City is expensive. Eating out is expensive, rent is VERY expensive... but it is also one of those fabulous cities with so much to do. And the good news is, a good number of these amazing things are 100% free!

On any given day, there is at least one fun cultural experience to be had in New York City, at absolutely no charge for its participants. Sometimes they are organized by companies trying to promote their services and others by individuals who want to spread the word about something. These free activities range from pilates classes in the park, kayaking in the Hudson river, historic tours of some of New York's oldest neighborhoods... and again I tell you, it's free!

Especially during the summer, almost every weekend there is some concert to attend, completely free of charge. Sometimes these are held in the parks and others in large venues. There are a number of websites that list these free events, such as www.clubfreetime.com.

If you prefer to spend your time alone or with family relaxing, then crowded events are not for you. Another great free thing to do in New York City is to picnic at the park. Buy or make some kites or maybe bring a soccer ball, and laze around on the great lawns of Central Park, Mc Carren Park, or the grand Prospect Park. People watching in New York City is another great free thing, and there is plenty of opportunity for this at the park!

The vast range of people and cultures in New York City is an amazingly interesting thing to observe. You can do this for free from any bench on any sidewalk. Just make sure you're not staring!

Also, if you're good at Chess, may I suggest you try and play one of the many folk that gather in Washington Square Park, or Tompkins Square Park? There are some savants to test your skill, no money for entering a tournament required.

You can also find free group dance classes, free theater shows with well-known actors (Shakespeare at the Park is amazing), and incredible street fairs to spend the afternoon perusing. Flea and antique markets are also great, and these are usually around on the weekends.

Bottom line is, New York City is expensive, but finding free things to do is easy. Not everyone has the money to be spending as if it were going out of style, and there is something for everyone, no matter their budget!

Sources:

www.clubfreetime.com/new_york.asp

http://www.nytix.com/ThingsToDo/thingstodo.html

Published by Carrine Guillaume

Human encyclopedia with a penchant for complete truth and honesty, (attempts at) fairness, and respect for humanity, no matter how little it deserves such observation sometimes. "...each one, teach one..."  View profile

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