Tight on money, but still want to have a great time in the city? Here are 8 possible adventures to take that cost little to almost nothing. Grab your friends or a special someone and head out for a fun day in one of the greatest cities in the world.
Spend the day in Central Park
Cost: Free!
From Strawberry Fields to the archway where Chuck and Blair got married, there is so much to see at Central Park. No matter what time of year, be prepared for the beautiful sights of this manmade park nestled in Upper Manhattan.
Walk around the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Cost: Free to $
The MET steps may be where Blair ate her lunch everyday, but you could be walking those same steps heading to one of the most culturally-intriguing places in the city. See the relics of the Ancient Egyptians or Monet’s The Water Lilies. Bonus is they offer a “pay as you want” option so technically you can get in for free. However, a student ticket is only $12.
Walk around Rockefeller Center
Cost: Free!
You can watch the ice skaters in the winter or all the tourists in the summer. Plus, seeing those historical world flags everywhere is a sight you just cannot miss. If you feel like splurging a bit, you can get a ticket to visit The Top of the Rock, which will cost you $34. Here’s a tip, go right before sunset for the prettiest views of Central Park and the Empire State Building. The pictures will definitely be worth posting on your Instagram.
Go window shopping in Soho
Cost: Free! (unless you buy something of course)
With stores like Steve Madden and Kate Spade just waiting to be walked in, any broke college student who loves to go shopping would want to avoid Soho at all costs. However, there is no harm in a little window shopping! Plus, when you do get a little extra money, you will know exactly how you want to spend it.
Visit the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Museum
Cost: Free!
All fashion lovers should take advantage of this opportunity ASAP! To see what exhibits are currently going on, head over to FIT’s website for more information: fitnyc.edu/museum
Take a stroll on the High Line
Cost: Free!
The High Line offers city goers the perfect opportunity to break away from the hustling and bustling of the city. With nature all around you and picture-perfect views of the Chelsea area, you’ll be in the best of both worlds. Just be cautious if you go during the warmer temperatures, you might run into nude sunbathers!
See the animals at the Bronx Zoo
Cost: $ (Free on Wednesdays though!)
Cute animals are great and being able to see them for free? Even better. On Wednesdays, the Bronx Zoo follows the same policy as The Met with their “pay as you want” concept. Seeing lions, tigers and bears for such a low price? Oh my! (but the good kind of surprise of course)
Read a book at the NY Public Library
Cost: Free!
Delve into your quirkier side by spending the day in the library. Walk past Patience and Fortitude and the lion statues in front, as you head into this historical landmark. For days when the weather outside is kind of dreary, nothing is better than settling down with a good book.