7 Free Things for Families to Do in NYC
New York City or NYC is a globally known economic and cultural powerhouse, and is one of the most expensive cities in the United States and the world. NYC is also unquestionably one of the most famous cities to travel to, attracting tens of millions of visitors every year.
With social media becoming a ubiquitous part of life, NYC has garnered even more attention. A feature on how social media impacts spending habits by Upgraded Points discusses how influencers nowadays affect consumer’s travel decisions, and most of these decisions look great but they are super expensive. It comes as no surprise then that New York City’s dazzling sights and rich atmosphere are the subject of many influencers’ posts enticing people to come visit.
However, enjoying the Big Apple does not have to cost an arm and leg. The city has a lot of places and activities that are easy on the wallet. If you are thinking of traveling to NYC with your family, here are some things to check out!
Explore Central Park
There is much to explore and enjoy at the expansive, world-famous Central Park. Head to the park after taking in the city sights. Try some of Generation Wild’s ideas for 20 minutes of outdoor play for kids, such as going on a color scavenger hunt or making tree rubbings. You can also see the visitor-favorite areas such as the Belvedere Castle, the Carousel, or the Bethesda Terrace.
Visit Grand Central Terminal
The largest train station in the world is a sight to behold for kids and adults alike, especially those obsessed with trains. Climb to the top of the steps in the Main Concourse and indulge in some people-watching or go and see the iconic Information Booth Clock. Watch the trains coming in and out of the terminal. You can also learn a little about science by testing out the Whispering Wall.
Watch for Free Museum Days
The NYC-ARTS museum schedule guide showed that a lot of the city’s museums have free days or pay-what-you-wish admission promos. Try the Brooklyn Children’s Museum free Thursdays at 2-5pm or pay what you wish at the Guggenheim on Saturdays from 6–8 pm. For residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, the American Museum of Natural History does donations-only admissions.
Enjoy Bryant Park
If you were planning on watching a basketball game at Madison Square Garden, check out the nearby Bryant Park. This town square is full of events and activities kids can enjoy for free such as Art Cart, kids camp, magic shows, and board games. The park also has seasonal activities such as free movies in the summer, or the Bank of America Winter Village where you can bring your own skates and skate for free.
Visit the Library
On a cold or rainy day, or if you just want a calmer activity for kids, the New York Public Library is a great free option. Check out the famous Rose Reading Room and Children’s Center in the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building in Midtown. Older kids can enjoy the teen zone in the nearby 53rd Street Public Library.
Play Indoors
If Rockefeller Center is already on your list, make sure to visit the toy stores there. You don’t have to purchase anything to enjoy some of the interactive displays and activities. Visit the three-level FAO Schwarz store with attractions such as the floor piano and a 27-foot rocket ship. Have some innovative play and see exclusive displays in the LEGO store. Let the kids immerse themselves in the interactive Nintendo NY store.
Wait for Seasonal Activities
Although New York City is full of fun year-round activities, changing seasons in the city also come with a vast array of seasonal displays and events. Plan your trip in time to see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade or the Fourth of July fireworks. Wait for annual special performances such as Broadway Under the Stars or Shakespeare in the Park.
