new york city It is often seen as a city of extremely rich people, but guess what? You don’t need cash to have an unforgettable time in the Big Apple. From free cultural gems to wallet-friendly dining, here’s your guide to the best (and cheapest!) experiences NYC has to offer.

Take a free ferry ride to Staten Island (and see the Statue of Liberty)

Skip the expensive tours of the Statue of Liberty and hop on the Staten Island Ferry instead – it’s free and runs 24/7. As you travel across the harbor, you’ll have spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Bonus points if you time it with sunset because Instagram-worthy moments are priceless, right?

Pay what you want in world-class museums

Many museums in NYC offer pay-what-you-want or free admission on specific days. El Museo del Barrio and the Museum of the City of New York offer “pay what you want” every day, while the Print Center New York and the Staten Island Museum are permanently free to all travelers!

Walk the High Line for a skyline ride

For an easy day in NYC, you can stretch your legs on the High Line, a gorgeous elevated park built on an old train line. It’s free, full of public art and perfect for people-watching. While you’re in the area you can also stop by Chelsea Market for some window shopping or a cheap snack.

Explore Street Art in Bushwick, Brooklyn

Bushwick is like a living, breathing art gallery where the walls are the canvas themselves. The Bushwick Collective displays some of the most amazing street art in the city, and it won’t cost you a dime to wander in and take a look. Make sure you have your camera ready as every corner tells a story.

See a show in Central Park

If you haven’t purchased Broadway tickets, see a free (or very cheap) performance in Central Park, especially during the summer when Shakespeare in the Park takes center stage. Even if you’re not a Shakespeare fan, the experience of watching world-class actors under the shade of trees is pure magic.

Get the latest news live on Times Now with breaking news and top headlines from destinations, travel and around the world.