Welcome to New York! The city that never sleeps is world-famous. Almost everyone grew up with the sight of New York seen on TV. So it’s hard not to expect something, and while some of them are real, the city still has plenty of surprises to amaze you.
Best Things to Do in Manhattan, New York
The pace of Manhattan is fast, and you’ll soon be caught up in the hustle and bustle of New York’s busy streets and subway cars. Attractions are everywhere – think Wall Street, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Broadway is lined with theaters and extends into the surrounding streets. Then there are museums and galleries that showcase various aspects of this unique urban environment.
There are countless places to explore in Manhattan, but here are some of the best places to visit for free.
Battery Park (Statue of Liberty)
Battery Park is located at the southernmost point of Manhattan. It’s a long stretch of parkland with stunning views of New York’s Upper Bay, with the Statue of Liberty clearly visible in the distance. If you want to see it up close, take the Staten Island Ferry to and from Staten Island. It’s free and you don’t need a ticket. Beware of tour sellers located near ferry and subway stations. They are usually overpriced or just scammers. If you would like to visit the Statue of Liberty, please book online in advance.
9/11 Museum
The 9/11 Museum opened in May 2014. Inside there are many exhibits surrounding the events before, during, and after the September 5 terrorist attacks. There are artifacts from the day, video clips, recorded newscasts and personal accounts. There is also a memorial room dedicated to the memory of the dead. It’s an informative and somber exhibit that anyone who wants a broader look at the most important events in recent American history should visit.
The 9/11 Museum generally charges a $24 admission fee, but admission is free after 5 p.m. on Tuesdays. You will need a special ticket, which is valid for a specific entry time. Some tickets can be purchased online and can be booked, but most tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum. If you pick up your ticket at the entrance, it is recommended that you arrive early as it is busy.
United Nations Headquarters
Entry to UN Headquarters is always free, and you can see their latest exhibits in the main foyer and see the sculptures in the garden near the entrance. But the most interesting thing is the General Assembly. The UN General Assembly has been featured in countless films, but nothing really prepares you to see representatives of every country seated and discussing world issues in real life.
As safety requirements are very strict, please be prepared before you go. Bring your passport for identity verification and make sure you’re not wearing anything with a political message (a gentleman turned away for wearing a Donald Trump t-shirt). Only carry a small bag and leave anything that will not be brought on board the accommodation at the accommodation.
Central Park
Central Park is always free and open from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. The park covers a large part of downtown Manhattan and is large enough that you can always find a quiet place. There are many walking trails throughout the grounds, dotted with statues of famous personalities. The park is also a great place to eat ice cream and watch the comings and goings.
Grand Central Station
Grand Central Station is an underrated free place to visit in New York City. I recommend going to the main square and seeing people hurrying by. To take great photos, head to the Apple Store on the top floor and stand in the middle of the stairs.
Best Things to Do Outside of Manhattan, New York
Coney Island
Coney Island is often affectionately referred to as the “National Playground,” and most New York natives have childhood memories of this seaside paradise. There are plenty of adult-friendly activities here too, so if you have a free day in New York, it’s definitely worth a visit. You can take the subway from Manhattan or Brooklyn to Coney Island, and Coney Island Station is right next to the venue.
Luna Park is a famous theme park that runs parallel to the beach and is separated only by the Coney Island Boardwalk. The theme park is full of rides and games, with a giant Ferris wheel for a bird’s eye view of the park and beach.
The boardwalk is a wide boardwalk that runs along the edge of the beach. If you have time, you can sit on the bench here and watch people walk by. The area attracts a wide variety of people, so it’s an event in itself!
The sand on the beach is soft, perfect for walking, boating or stretching on a towel. Some people hang hammocks from under the boardwalk to the east side of Marina Beach, which is also a great backdrop for photos. If you prefer to swim in the bay and there are patrol officers on the beach, it is recommended that you swim in one of these patrol areas.
Before you go, make sure you buy a hot dog at Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs. Coney Island is home to their original store and has been supplying world-famous hot dogs for 100 years.
Staten Island
The Staten Island Ferry boarding area is located above the South Ferry subway station at the southern end of Manhattan. The tour is free, no tickets are required, and the boat arrives on board. The ferry will take you directly past the Statue of Liberty, so make sure you are on the right so you have a good view.
Upon arrival at Staten Island, you must disembark. If you want to return directly, you cannot stay on board, but will need to disembark and re-board. But why go back when there are so many attractions within walking distance of the ferry terminal!
Walking west from the ferry terminal, you can see Manhattan across the Upper New York Bay. Along the way, you’ll next come to the Staten Island 9/11 Memorial, which commemorates those killed in the September 9 attacks. The silhouette of each person is carved into stone, which has two wings built into it and is designed like a postcard. If you look directly down at the center of these two buildings, you will see the original location of Manhattan and the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center.
To the south of the monument is the Richmondshire County Bank Baseball Stadium in St. George, home to the minor league Staten Island Yankees. If given the chance, you should experience one of Americans’ favorite past times by watching a baseball game. They are played regularly, just check the schedule online.
How to Get Around New York
Subway
The subway is the best way to get around Manhattan and Brooklyn. Stations are frequent and unlimited rides for 7 days with an MTA card for $31. Otherwise, it costs $2.75 per ride, and an MTA prepaid card is worth your time so you can avoid the hassle of finding the elusive ticket booth.
Taxicab
Tour the busy streets of New York in a famous yellow cab. Avoid traveling during peak hours or be prepared to pay high fares.
Best Things to Eat in New York
Hot dog! Pizza! Pretzels! Need me to say more? Try the hot dogs and pretzel stands on the street. They are not as scary as they seem, and they are very cheap. If you’re worried, see where the locals go. Pizzerias are scattered all over the city, and pizza is purchased by the slice. Slices are large, so you usually don’t need more than 1 or 2.