10 Must-Try Things to Do In New York For Free with Family

New York City is famous as “The City That Never Sleeps” and it’s true. It is home to the lush beauty of picturesque landmarks, vibrant culture, iconic sites, and a countless attraction that cater to all ages of visitors. We all love New York City but it’s expensive living makes visitors drag.

On the flip side, the beautiful city offers plenty of free things to do in New York with family. It’s a golden chance to experience numerous things without breaking the bank. In this post, we will discuss ten must-try things to do in New York for free with your family.

1. Explore Central Park

Central Park is a green oasis that is located in the heart of Manhattan. It offers tons of activities for families. No need to worry if you are in New York City without family, there are still plenty of things for solo travelers and couples too. 

The beautiful park is spanning over 843 acres. It is rich in vast playgrounds, picturesque walking trails, and open areas perfect for picnicking and spending quality time.

Highlights

• Playgrounds for kids

 The park contains almost 21 playgrounds scattered throughout the park and kids can play different games.

• Central Park Conservatory Garde

Conservatory Garde is a stunning yet peaceful place that offers beautiful flowers and fountains to mesmerize visitors.

• Central Park Zoo

 Although the zoo is the main spot to visit in the central park. There is an entrance fee, but you can view wildlife animals from outside the zoo gates.

2. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge is famous for its breathtaking views and is one of the best places to visit with your family. So, if luckily you are in New York City, take a stroll around the Brooklyn Bridge. No doubt, this iconic spot is more than a marvel of engineering. it considers a fantastic way to connect with the NYC’s history.

Highlights

• Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park is totally free, you can stroll in the surrounding play & enjoy in park’s playgrounds, and picnic areas, and capture waterfront views with cameras.

• Jane’s Carouse

Jane’s Carousel is a beautiful 48-horse carousel in Brooklyn, this historic carousel costs only a few dollars to ride with family and friends.

3. Discover the American Museum of Natural History

In New York, many renowned museums offer free admission to visitors during special hours or specific days. is one of them. It is located on the Upper West Side, and offers a “pay-what-you-wish” The American Museum of Natural History admission policy.

This policy makes it accessible for families on a budget and enjoy the beauty of NYC. You can explore exhibitions on dinosaurs, space, and natural wonders from around the world with your loved ones.

Highlights

• Dinosaur Draughts

At the museum dinosaur draughts and awe-inspiring exhibits capture the attention of children and adults, making their trip memorable.

• Butterfly Conservatory

 You can experience Butterfly Conservatory season and ticketed both, but a wonderful thing to see if visiting in the right season.

4. Visit the New York Public Library

The most famous architectural masterpiece in New York City is “The New York Public Library”. It is located in Bryant Park on Fifth Avenue. Here you and your family found plenty of things to do with no money. Overall, a fantastic place to spend a few hours peacefully.

Highlights

• Wide Reading Rooms

You can visit the wide and quiet reading rooms and experience the reading session with your family free of cost.

• Activities at Bryant Park

At Bryant Park, you can get a chance to see movie nights, summer yoga classes, and ice skating in winter seasons.

5. Explore the High Line

The High Line is a unique park built on a historic shipping rail line. It is spread over 1.45 miles, offering beautifully landscaped gardens, art installations, and remarkable views of the city and the Hudson River.

Highlights

• Chelsea Market

 You will find a massive range of dining options in Chelsea Market (not free but reasonable to families).

• Art Installations

Spinning and stunning exhibits provide cultural development for all ages of visitors.

6. Experience Times Square

If you are in New York City and have not yet visited Times Square, your travel is not complete without experiencing the dazzling lights of Times Square. This bustling area is popular for its digital commercials, romantic yet cheap weekend gateway for couples, street performers, and the famous TKTS booth.

Highlights

• Street Performers

With family, you Can enjoy the costumed characters and talented artists in different performances.

• Broadway Shows

TKTS booth offers some discounted same-day tickets, so Visit the time square to see the show It is not totally free, but you can experience it at a low cost.

7. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is a free service offered by the City of New York. It is free to ride a ferry every day around the year to experience the stunning views of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and more. What makes it a flexible option for families? Well, nonstop service, the ferry runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of year.

Highlights

• Sights of the Statue of Liberty

Staten Island Ferry is a great way to take plenty of photos with family without paying the cost of a cruise.

• Staten Island Charms

Although the Staten Island Museum or the nearby attractions are highlights of New York City like Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden few of them may charge for admission.

8. Go to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in New York City. It is the best family park that offers admission on certain days and times.

You and your family can spend quality and relaxing time and escape from the city’s rush. You can explore greenhouses, lush foliage, natural beauty, themed gardens, and seasonal exhibits.

Highlights

• Cherry Esplanade

Cherry Esplanade is the best tourist spot to experience with family during the cherry blossom season.

• Children’s Garden

The children’s garden offers Interactive exhibits that are specially designed for young visitors, they can enjoy and collect memories without breaking the bank.

9. Visit Grand Central Terminal

If your family loves transpiration, Grand Central Terminal can be their favorite place.  it’s an architectural marvel with a rich history that is considered more than just a transportation hub. With family, you can experience every inch of the terminal with no fee or cost.

Highlights

• Whispering Gallery

 The whispering gallery is a fun spot where you can whisper and be heard clearly on the opposite side. It is an amazing place to visit and gather memories.

• Free Tours

Grand Central Terminal offers free tours on Wednesdays and chances to discover the terminal’s history and architecture.

10. Walk the Museum Mile

Museum Mile is one of the most renowned museums in the city of New York. It is a stretch along Fifth Avenue. While admission can be pricey, yet many museums offer free hours or days.

So, before visiting check the special hours that free of cost allow visitors entry.

Highlights

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art

A policy followed the Pay-what-you-wish policy for residents of New York State for the extremely remarkable Metropolitan Museum of Art.

• El Museo del Barrio

In El Museo del Barrio, visitors can get free admission on every month’s third Saturday.

Final Thoughts

New York City is a place that you can explore with your family without breaking the bank. From iconic landscapes and lush green foliage, picturesque sites and themed parks offer free things to do in New York for free with family.

So, no need to worry about expenses, book your tickets, pack a picnic bag, gather family members, and get ready to discover the magical world of New York City without spending a dime.

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Discover 10 must-try things to do in New York for free with family. Enjoy plenty of exciting activities without breaking the bank in New York City!