A few weeks ago I took a trip to New York City to visit my daughter who works and lives there. Though I often wish she lived closer to home, I must admit that having an excuse to visit the Big Apple on a regular basis comes with fantastic perks. My son joined me for the trip and I had such an enjoyable time exploring the city that never sleeps with both of my children. There is so much culture to explore around every corner and for one weekend every year the Bushwick Block Party serves as a centralized hub for some of the elements that make New York so lively. The Bushwick Collective’s annual event boasts live music, terrific local vendors, delicious food trucks, and an impressive roster of artists painting graffiti live for all in attendance. On top of all of this, admittance into the block party is completely free! As we were walking around the party, taking in all it offered, I began thinking about all the other entertaining things one can do in New York for free. There is an abundance of history and art right at your fingertips! Below are my top picks for free fun in New York City. Next time you find yourself in this vibrant city, be sure to keep these suggestions in mind for an amazing trip!
Due to a grant from the Shelley & Donald Rubin Foundation, admission into this New York staple has been completely free for all ages since 2012! The Bronx Museum has seen massive expansion since initially opening in 1971. In 2006 the square footage doubled due to the addition of a larger entrance, improved facilities for education, and a new gallery. In addition to the Museum’s rotating array of amazing exhibitions, weekly events such as outdoor film screenings, open houses, and guided bike tours ensure that you will have a variety of options to fill your free time with!
If you are seeking a place that offers fantastic live music, then search no further than Arthur’s Tavern. Arthur’s is home to live R&B, jazz, and blues every night of the week and there is never a cover charge! The doors opened in 1937 and since then Arthur’s has been providing music to West Village for over six decades! This tavern dwells in one of the city’s designated historic buildings and you may find yourself astonished when you think about all the talent that has passed through the doors over the years. Arthur’s Tavern is a one stop shop for anyone wanting to hear incredible live music while experiencing a piece of New York City history.
When it comes to breathtaking architecture, the New York Public Library surely reigns supreme. With an interior as grand as the outside, it is truly a sight to behold. The second largest public library in America, only behind the Library of Congress, has reached iconic status and sits on top of the list of recognizable buildings in the country. Through various appearances in film and literature, the New York Public Library has become a fixture in pop culture. It costs absolutely zero to step inside this historic building for a peek around!
Federal Reserve Bank of New York
One of the 12 Federal Reserve Banks of the United States calls New York City home, and offers free tours Monday through Friday! On the guided tours offered to the public, visitors will learn about the responsibilities and roles of the New York Federal Reserve Bank. This stop is a must for any history buffs that you may be traveling with. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York has been in its current location since way back in 1924, and the building itself has become a part of New York’s fabric just as much as the bank has.
The Sony Wonder Technology Lab, or SWTL for short, is a free four story museum that will appeal to children of all ages in addition to any tech enthusiast traveling with you. The SWTL is 14,000 square feet and consists of 20 exhibit areas and over 60 interactive stations! Visitors of the SWLT interact with the cutting edge technology of today while also getting exposure to the technology of years past. In addition to all of the unbelievable exhibitions, SWTL offers a plethora of workshops and film screenings to satisfy the tastes of almost anyone who visits!
A trip to New York City isn’t complete without a stop at Central Park. Made up of 843 acres, there is no shortage of attractions in this historic park. For the architecture fans in your group, getting to take an up close and personal glimpse at Cleopatra’s Needle is surely something they will never forget. Central Park is also home to truly beautiful lakes and various wildlife, in addition to astonishing geographic features. Leisure tours, live music, and open-air theater productions are just a taste of the numerous items on the long list of things to do in Central Park. While some of these events will require money, taking a quiet stroll or having a picnic with friends and family is completely free!