20+ Free Things to Do in NYC That Don’t Feel Like Tourist Traps

New York City is full of spots that can drain your wallet faster than you can say “Times Square.” But what if I told you there are plenty of free things to do in NYC that don’t feel like tourist traps? Yep, you can enjoy the Big Apple without feeling like a postcard. From quirky art exhibits to peaceful parks, tons of local hangouts will let you experience the city like a true New Yorker. Forget the crowds and high prices—let’s explore the hidden gems that won’t cost you a dime.

Free Things to Do in NYC That Don’t Feel Like Tourist Traps: Local-Approved Spots Worth Exploring

Watch the sunset from Hunter’s Point South Park

Head to Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City for a perfect sunset view. As the sun sets behind the towers, the orange glow spills between the buildings, creating a spectacular sight. If you’re in the area, it’s a peaceful way to wrap up the day.

• Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/hunters-point-south-park 
• Location: Center Blvd, Long Island City, NY
• Phone: 1 212-639-9675

Catch a free movie screening at Bryant Park in summer

During the summer months, Bryant Park hosts free outdoor movie nights. Grab a blanket, a friend, and enjoy classic films under the stars. The lawn opens early for picnicking, so make an evening of it. The movies start at sundown, and the vibes are always great.

• Website: https://bryantpark.org 
• Location: New York, NY
• Phone: 1 212-768-4242

Walk the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for skyline views

The Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers some of the best free views in NYC. A 1/3-mile walkway along the East River gives you a perfect spot to admire the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. The best part? It’s open to everyone, all day long.

• Website: www.nycgovparks.org 
• Location: Montague St &, Pierrepont Pl, Brooklyn, NY
• Phone: 1 212-639-9675

Check out street art in Bushwick Collective

For a truly vibrant experience, head to Bushwick in Brooklyn. The Bushwick Collective is an open-air street gallery where you’ll find murals from local and international artists. If you’re a street art fan or not, this area is worth a visit.

• Instagram: @thebushwickcollective
• Location: 427 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY

Join a free yoga session at Prospect Park

If you’re in Brooklyn, don’t miss Prospect Park’s free outdoor yoga classes. These sessions, led by some of Brooklyn’s best yoga teachers, happen regularly in the park. It’s a great way to unwind in a beautiful, relaxed setting.

• Website: www.prospectpark.org 
• Location: Brooklyn, NY
• Phone: 1 718-965-8951
• Email: info@prospectpark.org 

Visit the Socrates Sculpture Park in Queens

Located in Astoria, Queens, the Socrates Sculpture Park is an outdoor museum that’s perfect for anyone interested in contemporary art. Walk around the park and enjoy the large-scale sculptures and rotating art exhibits—all for free.

• Website: https://socratessculpturepark.org  
• Location: 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Queens, NY
• Phone: 1 718-956-1819

Relax in Greenacre Park, Midtown’s secret waterfall garden

Take a break from the hustle and bustle at Greenacre Park, a hidden oasis in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The park is small but offers a peaceful atmosphere with its beautiful waterfall and lush greenery.

• Website: https://greenacrepark.org  
• Location: 217 E 51st St, New York

Watch skateboarders and street performers at LES Skatepark

Located in the Lower East Side, the LES Skatepark is one of NYC’s most iconic skateboarding spots. It’s a fun place to watch both professional and amateur skateboarders in action, all without spending a dime.

• Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/coleman-playground/facilities/skateparks  
• Location: Coleman Playground, 62 Monroe St &, Pike St, New York
• Phone: 1 212-219-0258

Peek inside the New York Public Library’s Rose Main Reading Room

The Rose Main Reading Room in the New York Public Library is one of the most awe-inspiring spaces in the city. While anyone can access the library, this iconic room is especially worth a visit for its grand architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

• Website: www.nypl.org/about/divisions/general-research-division/rose-main-reading-room  
• Location: Public Library, 476 5th Ave, New York
• Phone: 1 917-275-6975

Spot wild parrots in Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn is home to wild Monk Parakeets, which nest atop the cemetery’s Gothic Revival arches. It’s a quirky and unexpected spot to see these colorful birds and a great way to enjoy some peace away from the city’s noise.

• Website: www.green-wood.com 
• Location: 25th St, Brooklyn, NY
• Phone: 1 718-768-7300

Browse the free exhibitions at Japan Society’s lobby gallery

For a taste of art and culture, visit the Japan Society for free exhibitions. Located in the Upper East Side, their lobby gallery features rotating exhibitions, often showcasing student work from local art schools.

• Website: https://japansociety.org 
• Location: 333 E 47th St, New York
• Phone: 1 212-832-1155

Check out the Vessel at Hudson Yards

While you can’t climb the Vessel at Hudson Yards anymore, you can still visit this futuristic structure for free. The views from the ground are impressive, and it’s a cool photo spot right in the heart of the city.

• Website: www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/vessel  
• Location: 20 Hudson Yards, New York
• Phone: 1 332-204-8500

Explore Little Island

Little Island is a new, unique park built on a floating pier in the Hudson River. Admission is free, and it’s a peaceful spot to relax, enjoy the views, and even catch some live performances or art installations.

• Website: https://littleisland.org 
• Location: New York, NY

Walk across the Williamsburg Bridge

If you’re looking for a great way to explore the city, walking across the Williamsburg Bridge is a must. The pedestrian walkway is free, and you’ll be treated to amazing views of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

• Website:  www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/infrastructure/williamsburg-bridge
• Location: 70 Williamsburg Bridge Bicycle Path, Brooklyn, NY
• Phone: 1 800-221-9903

Find the “Alice in Wonderland” statue in Central Park

The Alice in Wonderland statue in Central Park is a popular spot for photos. The bronze sculpture, featuring Alice and her fantastical friends, is located near Conservatory Water and offers a nice break from the usual park activities.

• Website:  www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/infrastructure/williamsburg-bridge
• Location: 70 Williamsburg Bridge Bicycle Path, Brooklyn, NY
• Phone: 1 800-221-9903

Hang out in Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village is a classic hangout spot. More than just a park, it’s a space filled with history, street performances, and plenty of people-watching. If you’re relaxing or enjoying a free event, it’s a place that never gets old.

• Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/washington-square-park 
• Location: New York, NY

Catch the Staten Island Ferry

Riding the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best free things you can do in NYC. It’s a quick, scenic ride that offers fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline without costing you a penny.

• Website:  https://siferry.com 
• Location: St. George Ferry Terminal, 1 Bay St, Staten Island, NY
  • Whitehall Terminal, 4 Whitehall St, New York
• Phone: 1-888-692-7233
• Email: siferrypics@hotmail.com 

Tour the Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is a food lover’s paradise. Even if you’re not in the mood to eat, strolling through the market is free and enjoyable. From fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses, the market’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot in the Meatpacking District.

• Website: www.chelseamarket.com 
• Location: 75 9th Ave, New York
• Phone: 1 212-652-2111

Climb the granite steps at DUMBO for skyline photos

The Granite Prospect in DUMBO, Brooklyn, offers one of the best spots for skyline photos. From here, you can capture the Brooklyn Bridge with the Manhattan skyline in the background—one of NYC’s most iconic views.

• Website: https://brooklynbridgepark.org/places-to-see/granite-prospect 
• Location: Brooklyn Bridge Park, New York
• Phone: 1 718-222-9939

Wander the Oculus and its hidden corners

The Oculus is a striking architectural gem located at the World Trade Center. While it’s mainly a shopping mall, wandering through this unique structure is free and fascinating. The design is a work of art, and it’s a cool spot to reflect on the events of 9/11.

• Website: www.explorewtc.com/en/local/things-to-do/shopping  
• Location: World Trade Center, 185 Greenwich St, LL3110, New York

Join a free kayaking session on the Hudson River

If you’re looking for something a little more active, you can join a free kayaking session on the Hudson River. Volunteers run these sessions, and it’s a great way to experience the city from a unique perspective.

• Location: New York, NY

More…

• https://www.westgateresorts.com/blog/free-things-to-do-nyc
• https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/alternatives-to-touristy-new-york-attractions
• https://jessieonajourney.com/non-touristy-things-to-do-in-nyc 
• https://www.overherenewyork.com/where-to-take-first-time-visitors-in-nyc