Location photograph; not a current event image
Staten Island Ferry
Harbor air. Skyline views. Zero admission.
Free things to do in New York City
New York has plenty to enjoy without buying an attraction ticket. Begin with the genuinely free core of a plan, then decide whether to add food or other extras.
The High Line
Take your city walk up a level.
The Bronx location archive · event not pictured
The Bronx Museum
Contemporary art with a Bronx point of view.
Manhattan location archive · event not pictured
National Museum of the American Indian
Indigenous stories in Lower Manhattan.
Queens location archive · event not pictured
Socrates Sculpture Park outdoor art
Let your art walk come with river air.
Organizer archive · event appearance may differ
Bryant Park bring-your-own-skates session
A classic winter outing with a budget-friendly route in.
Organizer archive · event appearance may differ
Grand Bazaar NYC seasonal Sundays
A different Sunday theme, a new excuse to wander.
Free without a special offer
The Staten Island Ferry, High Line, public parks, and several galleries offer an outing without relying on a museum discount window. Verify access hours before choosing your route.
Free admission still has conditions
Whitney free sessions require tickets. Bryant Park skating is free with your own skates and a reservation; rentals cost extra. Free market entry does not include the food.
Before you go
Is the Staten Island Ferry really free?
Yes. NYC DOT operates the free service. It is separate from the paid NYC Ferry network and does not stop at the Statue of Liberty.
Does free mean no reservation?
No. Read the access conditions on each plan and reserve through the official organizer when required.