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New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips

It’s true: New York City ain’t cheap! Accommodation is notoriously expensive, and food can add up if you don’t know where to find cheap eats! But there’s good news: We’ve rounded up our top tips for traveling to NYC on a budget so you don’t come home from the Big Apple completely broke! Read up on money-saving advice, cheap places to eat and free things to do in New York City.

New York City is notoriously expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stick to a budget. There are plenty of free things to do in NYC and other ways you can save money during your trip.

We’ve put together our best money-saving tips for traveling in NYC so you don’t come home from vacation completely broke!

Whether this is your  first time visiting New York City  or The Big Apple feels like your second home, these tips will help you travel NYC for cheap!

Disclaimer:  There may be some affiliate links on this page, which means when you click we get a small percentage of the purchase at no extra cost to you. This allows us to keep sharing great travel tips, so feel free to click away!

1. Visit NYC at the Right Time

New York City is busy year round, but during peak tourist times, like the summer months and during the holidays, hotel prices will be ultra high. If you visit during a less busy season for out of town travelers, you’ll find much better rates.

Cheapest times to visit NYC:

• January – early April
• September – November (excluding holidays)

FIND THE CHEAPEST HOTELS ON BOOKING.COM

2. Find a cheap flight to NYC

Getting there doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are often times great flight deals to NYC because it is a major hub. Be sure to include both JFK and La Guardia, or even Newark, in your search.

Try seaching with Google Flights to come up with the best deal that suits your needs.

Here is an entire article dedicated to  finding cheap flights around the world !

3. Take the train to and from the airport

Whether you fly into JFK or La Guardia, you will be pretty far from the city when you land. Instead of hailing a taxi or Uber, which will cost you at least $40 – $50 (maybe even $65), take the shuttle to the metro. It is super easy to do and will save you a lot of money. 

Here’s how to do it:

For us, it was easiest to buy the 7-day metro pass (see tip #6), which allowed us to use the bus and metro unlimited times for our entire time in NYC. You can purchase the pass from the Metro Card vending machines which have very simple instructions to follow.

Once you have your card, simply use Google Maps and direct yourself to your hotel via public transportation.

Getting from La Guardia (LGA) to Manhattan:

From La Guardia Terminal B, take the Q70-SBS bus to Roosevelt Av/74 Street stop. Get off the bus and enter the metro at Roosevelt Av – Jackson Heights Subway Station. If you’re a little disoriented (I sure was), just ask the bus driver where the metro entrance is located. Once in the metro station, take the E line to 50 Street Subway Station toward World Trade Center, or connect a line leading you to your hotel. Total time is about 1 hour.

Getting from JFK to Manhattan:

Leaving from JFK Terminal 4, you have to purchase the $5 JFK AirTrain ticket which will take to Jamaica Station. From there you can connect to the NYC Metro and buy the 7-day Metro pass (tip #6) or a single ticket for $2.75 (plus $1 for the card). Then take the Long Beach line, Babylon line, or the E line into Manhattan and to your hotel. Total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

4. Find Cheap Accommodation

Hotels in New York City are notoriously expensive, even for low quality digs. So when we say “cheap accommodation”, we mean  relatively cheap.

Basically you have 2-ish options when it comes to finding cheap accommodation:

1) Go super cheap-o

Find the absolutely cheapest room you can find and be prepared for the worst. We paid $100 a night for the sh!ttiest hostel we’ve ever stayed at (pardon my language, but it has to be said). It was basically a closet with a window looking out to a wall and a dirty shared bathroom.

2) Pay a little more than you’d like

Alternatively, we stayed at a  hotel for the last 2 nights  of our trip that was a little more than double the price of aforementioned hostel (so it ain’t cheap!), but it was 1,000 times better. It was more than we’d typically spend anywhere else, but hey, it’s NYC.

5. Find Free & Cheap Things To Do

There are tons of things to do in NYC that will cost you absolutely nothing. Fill your days with free and cheap activities to save yourself some dough!

We’ve put together a pretty long list of  free and cheap things to do in New York City , but here are some of our favorites:

• Walk along the  NYC High Line
• Picnic in Central Park
• Explore the street art in the Bushwick neighborhood
• Watch the Today Show being filmed
• Take a Free Walking Tour
• Psst! If you’re spending some time in the neighborhood, make sure you check out this  extensive list of things to do in Brooklyn . Lots of them are free or cheap so you can stick to your budget!
• Get a great view of the city for free at  north 5th street pier and park

6. Get the Metro Pass

Getting an unlimited Metro pass saved us a ton of money during our trip to NYC. You can either get a 7-day unlimited pass or a 30-day unlimited pass.  We were only in the city for 4 full days, but even so, the week-long pass was a great deal. 

It costs $32 (plus $1 for the reusable card itself), but if you use the metro 11 times (which we definitely did in 4 days), it will pay for itself. 

Taking an Uber is another option in NYC (cheaper than taxis!) depending on where you want to go.

Insider Tip:  If you do want to take an Uber, the Uber Pool option is cheapest. This means the driver might pick up another passenger going on a similar route, but your total cost will be less expensive.

We would NOT recommend renting a car in NYC, as traffic is ugly and the cost of parking garages is insane!

7. Get the NYC CityPASS (maybe)

If it’s your  first time visiting New York City  and you want to see many of the major attractions, the  New York CityPASS  can be a good option. Starting at $132 per adult ($108 per youth), it’s not cheap up front, but it will truly save you money in the end if you want to hit all the major attractions (a 41% savings for an adult). Prices are from March 2019.

It gives you entrance to 6 activities throughout the city. Plus, at most attractions you will stand in a separate line, which in every single attraction we visited was much shorter than the line for purchasing tickets.

Go through the list of attractions included and mark the ones you definitely want to see to calculate if it makes sense for you to purchase.

CityPASS  includes admission to (prices are for adults):

• The Empire State Building (value $53.25)
• American Museum of Natural History (value $28)
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (value $25)
• Top of the Rock Observation Deck (value $39.20)  OR  Guggenheim Museum (value $25)
• Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (value $18.50)  OR  Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises (value $37)
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum (value $24)  OR  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (value $33)

Only interested in a few… There is another option:  You could purchase the  New York C3 pass , where for $83 per adult ($63 per child) and you get to choose any 3 attractions above to visit. It’s up to a 25% savings off the original price. If you’re  traveling in NYC with kids , this is a great option.

8. See the Statue of Liberty for Free!

If your budget is tight, skip the Statue of Liberty tour altogether. Instead, take the Staten Island Ferry (which is free!) and brings you right past the statue. Just check out the picture above to see the sweet view you’ll get — right next to the sightseeing cruises!

Insider Tip:  Be sure to grab a spot on the upper deck on the right side (west side) of the vessel as you leave Manhattan.

You can either get right back on the return ferry once you arrive in Staten Island, or wander around a bit and grab lunch at one of the affordable Sri Lankan restaurants in the area. The ferries depart every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour and are 100% free.

And even if your budget isn’t super tight, this is a good, less-touristy option.

9. Pay as you wish Museum Entry

Did you know that some of NYC’s most famous museums have pay-as-you-wish entry all the time?  Yes, even the American Museum of Natural History!  This makes these national treasures accessible to all.

And if a museum isn’t pay as you wish, there’s a good chance they have specific days or times that entry is free. Here are some examples:

• 9/11 Memorial:  FREE on Tuesdays from 5 – 8 p.m.
• Museum of Modern Art (MOMA):  FREE on Fridays from 4 – 8 p.m.
• New York Botanical Garden:  FREE all day Wednesdays, and from 9 – 10 a.m. on Saturdays

Take a look at  this list of free museum days  so you know when to plan your visit. Just know that on free entrance days, there is typically a longer queue.

10. Get Discount Broadway Tickets

Seeing a Broadway show is on most people’s Bucket List when visiting NYC. If you don’t do much research, you can expect to pay a hefty price for those tickets.

But luckily there are ways to score seats at a Broadway show for cheap! The most common way to get your tickets for cheap is to head to a TKTS booth where you can score same-day tickets that can be up to half-off! Or you can check  online at TodayTix  to find hot deals today.

Here’s everything you need to know about  getting discounted tickets to Broadway shows .

And if you can’t get a cheap ticket, but still want to be entertained, head to  Ellen’s Stardust Diner , order a milkshake and fries, and prepare to be wowed by the talented performers that are sometimes up-and-coming Broadway stars!

11. Know Where to Eat for Cheap

You can easily spend your entire budget on food in NYC. And while we definitely had some worthy splurges, like a $24 lobster roll at The Frying Pan, we tried our best to find some cheap eats.

You’ll have no problem finding cheap eats if you know where to look:

• You’ll find  Food Trucks  all around the city . Some are cheaper than others, but there are tons of intriguing options, from Korean BBQ to gyros.
• Dollar slices of pizza  are an NYC staple, and can be found all around town. Try Joes’ Pizza for the most famous $1 slice, or scout out one of the other 70 shops in the city that boast dollar slices (there’s even  an app for that !).  Good to know:  If you’re looking for the  best pizza in NYC , you might need to shell over a bit more than a measly dollar, but it’s still a pretty affordable option most of the time!

Insider Tip:  When looking for a meal, stay away from Midtown and other super touristy areas. The quality will be poor and the prices are high. Instead, head to nearby Chinatown, Greenwich Village or the Lower East Side for more affordable (and higher quality) bites.

• Head to Chinatown  for ultra cheap eats! 
• Don’t miss  Los Tacos No. 1 .  Their famous tacos are like little bites from heaven and start at $3.25.

• Bagels  filled with lots of toppings are usually a good budget option.
• Famous NYC hot dogs  at Papaya King or Gray’s Papaya.
• Mamoun’s  for quite possibly the cheapest (and best!) falafel you’ll find in the city!

Check out this  local’s roundup of cheap eats in NYC !

12. Cook & Picnic

If you really want to cut costs on food, choose an hotel or hostel with a kitchen so you can eat in for at least a couple meals, saving money (and calories!). You can easily make a cheap breakfast of fruit, yogurt, toast and eggs, and save the splurges for later in the day.

And if you’re really trying to pinch pennies, try packing a lunch for the day. There are plenty of perfect spots for picnicking around the city. Umm, Central Park anyone?! Just be sure to pack your  To-Go Ware utensils ! Pair your Central Park picnic with a stroll by the Belvedere Castle and you’ve got a pretty  romantic day in New York , and the best part is it’s free!

13. Hit up Happy Hour

Drinks in NYC can be pretty expensive, so if you want to indulge without cleaning your wallet, plan on hitting happy hour.

Here’s a round up of a ton of  happy hour options in NYC .

And order a couple appetizers to split for a light dinner that’ll have a smaller price tag than a regular entree.

Or buy your drinks at a liquor shop and enjoy them at your hotel before going out for the night.

14. Drink from the tap… err, fountain

It is totally safe to drink the tap water in New York City, so go ahead and drink up! You’ll find plenty of drinking fountains all around the city ( check out this map! ), especially in public parks. Fill up your reusable bottle to  save plastic waste  and cash.

15. Plan out your splurges

When you’re visiting NYC, you won’t want to miss out on those bucket list items you’ve been dreaming about. Make the most of your time here, plan ahead and budget accordingly.

If you want to get an iconic view of the city, there are many options. But do your research and choose only one. 

Insider Advice:  Our pick is the Top of the Rock instead of the Empire State Building, since you won’t be surrounded by glass and you get the iconic Empire State Building INSIDE your shots!

There are plenty of cheap eats in NYC (see tip #11), but there are also some of the best restaurants in the world here as well. Plan on one meal that you’ll splurge on instead of 10.

Or get the biggest bang for your buck and try a little of everything on a  New York City food tour .

Just be sure to research it ahead of time and plan it out so you don’t accidentally splurge on something unworthy.

For example, we split a $24 lobster roll at the Frying Pan, which was amazing. But we couldn’t justify ordering two, so we filled up on cheap slices of pizza as well.

16. Find Free Events

There is always something going on in New York City. Find out what free events and festivals are taking place during your visit on  Time Out NYC .

Examples of free events in NYC:

• Target First Saturdays:  First Saturday of the month, free admission to Brooklyn Museum with live DJ and art!
• free yoga classes
• free  Shakespeare in the Park  (summer only)
• food markets and festivals
• free concerts

No matter the time of year, there are always events going on in this city, so there’s a good chance your visit will overlap with at least one free event that interests you!

17. Set a budget and track your spending

All these tips are great, but they’re going to do you no good if you don’t track your expenses. New York City is a place where it is easy to overspend. A bagel here and an entry ticket there will add up fast. And if you aren’t writing them down, you’ll have no clue how over-budget you’ve gone.

Here’s what I want you to do: Figure out what your total budget for your trip to NYC is, and hold yourself accountable.

There are plenty of apps out there that let you set daily budget goals and show you how much you have left to spend.

Save this article on Pinterest!

We want to hear from you! 

What tip is most useful to you? Have you traveled to New York City on a budget? How did you save money? Share with us in the comments below!

Comments (25) on “ New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips ”

Beautiful blog post with very narrative information. Thank you for sharing

Just looked into the AMNH and the website clearly say the pay as you wish is only for NY, NJ and Connecticut residents:( can you explain why it’s on this list

I am hoping to take my fam to NYC this summer, and this article is sure to be revisited more than once before then! Thanks!

I want to take my 13 year old grandson there in June 2021. I will be coming back to this post for more insight & help to get the best experience for our budget. I have not been to NYC in decades………….

I have yet to visit but am incredibly interested in going to NY city. This article is very inspiring, making me feel that this is actually possible sooner rather than later. If anyone knows of a good place to stay that is in a optimal location and reasonably priced (for NY), I’d appreciate any tips or advice. I can see the value of having a comfortable place to come back to but am definitely on a budget.

I have to tell you I’ve been planning my trip for awhile. If you book in advance hotel Edison is nice. We are staying there with taxes for 850 For 5 nights BUT it is within walking distance to 90 percent of things we are doing. However , we wanted to stay for a week , so on the weekend we are staying at a cheaper place , for the 2 nights we are staying at the US pacific hotel right when we get there for 98.00 total . It’s cheap but near Chinatown and little Italy. Because we will be on that side of the town first , we can visit that and also 911 memorial , one World Trade Center And Statue of Liberty. That’ll be a good start for the fly in day and the next day. Then move to the hotel Edison to a nice comfy bed . Most other places like Empire State and top of the world grand central station park etc etc etc etc is less that a 17 minute walk !!!!! Y’all about saving money and time !

Go in June ?. If you’re going in summer. Cheaper

I was in New York, but definitely not on a budget, the next time I’ll go there will try to follow these steps 😀 Thanks

Thanks for an amazing blog’s best budget travel I feel!

YOU ARE SO AMAZING GUYS!! I am planning to travel to the states on December and your blog guide is so helpful!! Thank you very much!!

Thanks for giving a complete guide to New York City. I really appreciate that you have covered the airport areas as well. We are recently planning to visit New York and this blog is definitely a saver of money and time. I would surely follow the tips you have given. thanks!

Ha, I should’ve read this years ago! I’ve just been saving money by walking everywhere, whoops– those passes look so handy, though!

Ahh, this brings back good memories! Finding affordable yet clean accommodation in New York is not always easy. Luckily when I visited we managed to find a hotel with a great deal. They were right by Times Square too – it might be period we visited. In any case, I loved NY and hope to go again. I didn’t go to Central Park nor tried a food truck so I will them on my things to do lists.

Going to New York on a budget sure is a must! There is so much to explore and see that it makes it hard not to spend a fortune while you are there. We love to see Broadway shows so usually we splurge on that. Saving on food costs sure does help. I am going to look for that Taco stand as it looks yummy!

I’ve been to New York twice before and I’m wanting to go back a third. It’s such an amazing place with so much to see and do! Some great tips here, thanks for sharing!

This is a great list! I grew up less than two hours from NYC and have been to the city dozens of times, but still have never done most of the proper tourist things because they’re so expensive. Really need to do that citypass for a weekend someday. And the cost of accommodation is really insane. Buuut, you totally can eat super-cheap — even in Manhattan, but some of my favorite places to eat are in Jackson Heights, where you can get a huge plate of food for about $6.

These are wonderful tips! I’ve definitely wanted to go back to New York as an adult, but everything about it screams expensive. But I’d love to revisit the idea of going with these budget tips in mind!

OMG – that hundred-dollar hostel room is DIRE! NYC is definitely one of those places where it’s worth it to save money on activities (by doing great free stuff, obviously) so that you can afford to come home to a room that is at least semi-comfortable!

Ahh New York! I have been there twice, once in the summer and once in the winter. Both times I absolutely loved it….pricey though so these tips will surely come in handy next time I go. Thanks for sharing!

NYC is always a good idea! True that it isn’t cheep, so very helpful tips you have here. I got the city pass when went there, it was very useful! I’ll save your tips for my next time 🙂

Great tips! NYC can be very expensive, especially the hotels; we usually stay across the river, somewhere in NJ and take the train into the city… you’re right, once in the city, there are plenty of free things to do, including museums at times.

Ummm….Airbnb is illegal in NYC unless the homeowner is in the apt with the guests. Airbnb will never tell you this. But if fellow tenants in the building get sick of their apt buildings being used as a hotel, police may come knocking and ask you (the “guests”) to leave. Airbnb has encouraged NYC rents to climb because renters subsidize ridiculous rents by charging for short-term visits and basically turning every building into a hotel, ruining neighborhoods and communities. As aware as you seem to be about “green” travel to other countries, you should be aware of this.

Hi Anna, we have warnings in the article about Airbnb’s in NYC because they are illegal. Thank you for reiterating this in the comments section for others to read about. Since you seem to be a local, if you have any other tips on how to travel cheaply in New York, we would love to hear your reply. Thanks!

The Big Apple does take a big bite out of your pocket once you are here. I have been a victim myself and ended up exceeding my budget on my last trip. I am glad I reached your blog. I’ll be using some of your trips on my next NYC trip and I think I would definitely recover some of the money I lost last time, ha-ha.

Glad you found it helpful! It’s certainly a city that is easy to overspend it! You’re not the only one 😉

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The Best New York Itinerary: Visiting NYC On A Budget

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Planning a New York Itinerary is no easy feat. Choosing from the copious number of NYC sights, incredible things to do and endless options of delicious food can be overwhelming. And, as New York City is ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, visiting NYC on a budget can add even more anxiety to the planning process. No need to fret. Our New York City Itinerary is packed with everything your need for your budget trip to NYC!

Best Trip to New York on a Budget

For our trips to New York City, we challenge ourselves to experience NYC on a budget. Even for a short stay, costs can add up quickly when paying for expensive admission to sights, pricey meals and high-dollar accommodations.

However, thrifty travelers need not worry. There is plenty to do and see (and eat!) in New York without breaking the bank. We’ve created a Budget NYC Itinerary that includes iconic sights, a ferry ride, neighborhood walks and classic, cheap eats.

We believe this is the Best New York Itinerary for budget travelers, as we focus on the free things to do in NYC. In fact, it might be the absolute cheapest way to visit New York. However, we also happen to think that these are some of the absolute best things to do in New York City! 

Planning a New York Budget Itinerary

When we decided to visit NYC on a budget, we found multiple resources offering suggestions of what to do in New York on a budget, but nothing that wrapped it all up into an easy-to-follow itinerary. 

After spending hours planning our trip to NYC on a budget, we came up with the perfect way to visit the city without going broke. We are sharing our detailed outline of how to spend 4 days in NYC on a budget so that fellow travelers can easily plan their trip. 

In addition to our day-by-day New York City itinerary planner, we include detailed tips for a New York budget trip – such as where to find an affordable place to stay, how to get there and what to pack. 

Just like the city itself, this New York DIY Trip Plan is humungous . It contains absolutely everything you need for planning a trip to New York on a budget.

Pro Tip: We suggest using our Trip Planning Templates to research and organize your NYC vacation!

How Many Days to Spend in New York

We are detailing a day-by-day plan for a New York 4 Day Itinerary – but what if you have more – or less time in NYC? No problem! We provide NYC itinerary planner tips on how to spend your time in the city.

Whether you have 1 day in New York or are planning 7 days in New York, you can use our sample New York itineraries, which we feature at the end of the post.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our NYC Trip Plan to create your best itinerary for New York City!

NYC Budget Trip: New York Itinerary Planner Tips

Before we dive into our incredibly comprehensive New York City Itinerary, we have some essential tips that will help you prepare for a trip to NYC on a budget. 

NYC on Budget: Subway and Shoes

Our suggested itinerary for New York covers some ground; up to 10 miles a day! In order to keep up, you will need two things: comfortable travel shoes and a MetroCard. An unlimited weekly MetroCard costs $34, plus $1 for the card. More info about using the subways and the MetroCard are included at the end of the article.

NYC Sightseeing Map

We provide a New York itinerary map link for each day’s adventures. But if you are visiting New York City for the first time and are unfamiliar with the area, a paper NYC map may help. In fact, we recommend getting a New York City Map in advance and spending a little time studying it. Having a separate NYC Subway Map is also helpful.

Sightseeing in New York City on a Budget

The big (not so) secret tip on how to do NYC cheap is to skip the expensive, ticketed attractions. In our 4-day New York trip plan, we include many free and cheap attractions. However, our New York trip itinerary does not include visiting any museums or skyscrapers. Don’t worry, there are plenty of great things to see and do in New York City without paying for pricey tickets!

That said, our NYC sightseeing route passes by many of those high-dollar attractions, so they are easy to visit if within your budget. Now, we have a few tips for how to balance New York on the cheap with expensive admission to top attractions. 

Top Tips for Sightseeing NY on the Cheap

Soaring to the top of skyscrapers (like the Empire State Building , Top of the Rock or One World Observation Deck ) is expensive. Rather than going to the top of all 3 buildings, choose just one. Or, if you are really trying to see NY on the cheap, eliminate them altogether.

Instead, take in the city skyline views from a free vantage point – like the Staten Island Ferry, The High Line, the Brooklyn Bridge or Roosevelt Island.

Likewise, spending time at a museum (like The Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Natural History ) requires ticket. If one of the pricey museums is high on your New York travel itinerary must-sees, pick just one. 

The New York Botanical Garden is another top attraction that charges a steep admission price. We suggest skipping it in favor of the free NYC parks and green spaces. Swap out visiting the NY Botanical Garden with other outdoor things to do in NYC cheap – like Central Park, Prospect Park and the Hudson River Greenway.

Top Tip : We chat more about ticketed sights and money-saving NYC Sightseeing Passes later in the article!

About Our New York Itinerary 4 Days

With 4 days in NYC, you can see the major attractions, feel the distinct vibe of New York neighborhoods and get a taste of some of the city’s best food. Our robust and easy-to-follow NYC itinerary will help make your trip planning simple!

Budget Itinerary for NYC: Sights, Info and Directions

For each sight in our New York tour itinerary, we include information, facts and (if applicable) a link to more info. To help you better navigate, we indicate which is the closest subway station to the first sight of the day. We also include a link to Google Maps so that you can get directions from wherever you are. 

When visiting New York on a budget, the best way to get around is on your own two feet. In our NYC trip itinerary, we group sights together on self-guided walking tours. However, if public transportation is required, we have included the recommended subway route. 

Bathrooms and Water Fountains

Our New York Itinerary includes long stretches of being outdoors and eating on-the-go, so we’ve indicated where there are convenient public bathrooms along the route. With so much walking in our budget New York trip plan, it is important to stay hydrated. There are numerous public drinking fountains where you can fill up water bottles along the way. 

NEW YORK BUDGET TRAVEL ITINERARY

Now that we have covered the important details of planning a trip to NYC on a budget, we are ready to share our best New York trip plan!  

Day 1 of your New York Vacation on a Budget

On the first day of your 4-day trip to New York City, see the city’s top sights. Start in Lower Manhattan to get a view of the Statue of Liberty; then embark on a self-guided walking tour through Midtown to the most iconic NYC buildings and sights. Start at Subway Station: South Ferry or Whitehall St .

LOWER MANHATTAN

Lower Manhattan is the district located on the southern tip of Manhattan that is often referred to as Downtown. The district is both historic and modern – and it is the perfect place to kick off your budget New York trip!

Statue of Liberty via the Free Staten Island Ferry

There is no doubt that Lady Liberty is one of New York’s most recognizable sights. Every visitor should get a look at her – which is why we include it as the first thing to do on your budget NYC trip. 

Expensive Statue of Liberty Tours allow visitors to get up close and personal, but the cost may exceed your New York travel budget. No worries – there is a free way to get a fabulous view: The Free Staten Island Ferry. In fact, we think riding the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things to do in New York City on a budget. 

The free ferry transports passengers from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island. The route passes by Ellis Island and Liberty Island, providing a stunning view of the Statue of Liberty…and the ride doesn’t cost a dime! In addition to the views of Lady Liberty, passengers also get a phenomenal view of the NYC skyline. 

Taking the Staten Island Ferry

To catch the ferry from Lower Manhattan, simply go to the Whitehall Terminal, get in line, get on the ferry and get a spot on the starboard (right) side. Ferries make the journey at least every half hour; get the full schedule on the official website .

When you arrive at Staten Island, you must disembark and circle around to the entrance to ride back. Once back in Manhattan, spend time exploring the NYC Financial District in Lower Manhattan on foot. 

Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

The best way to see the sights in Lower Manhattan on a New York Low Budget Trip is on a self-guided walking tour. The district is highlighted by historic places, iconic buildings and poignant memorials. The 1.5-mile walk begins at The Battery and ends at The Oculus – and should take about 1-2 hours. U se this Map for walking directions. 

The Battery

The Battery (previously known as Battery Park) is the reserved green space at the southern tip of Manhattan. The name dates to the time when the area housed a fort and artillery batteries for defense purposes. 

Charging Bull on Bowling Green

The iconic Charging Bull sculpture was created by artist Arturo Di Modica in 1989 (following the stock market crash of 1987) as a nod to the self-determined (some might say bullish ) spirit of America to prosper. Weighing 3.5 tons, the bronze sculpture made its first appearance in front of the New York Stock Exchange, left there mysteriously by the artist in the middle of the night. It was quickly removed and relocated to nearby Bowling Green, where it stands today.

It is estimated that 1,000 tourists stop to see the sculpture each day, many posing with it for a photo and then rubbing its nose, horns and genitals (no joke) for good luck. 

Wall Street and the New York City Stock Exchange

Wall Street is at the center of Manhattan’s Financial District. Standing at the corner of Wall Street and Broad Street is the New York Stock Exchange, one of the world’s top financial markets. Even travelers who visit New York City on a budget should check out the famous Financial District.

Running 8 blocks to the East River, Wall Street is also home to the Museum of American Finance, Old Stonington Custom House and Federal Hall (where George Washington was sworn in as the first United States president in 1789). 

New York City Trinity Church

The first Trinity Church was built on the location in 1698, but was destroyed by the Great New York City Fire of 1776. The second Trinity Church was built in 1790, and was the place of prayer for President Washington. The current Trinity Church with its soaring spire was built in 1846 and, at the time, was the tallest building in the US. 

The Sphere in Liberty Park

Opened in 2016, Liberty Park is located south of One World Trade Center. The raised park provides an elevated view of the National September 11 Memorial. At the center of Liberty Park is The Sphere.

The 25-foot-tall sculpture once stood in the plaza between the Twin Towers. After the 9/11 attacks, The Sphere was recovered from the rubble at Ground Zero, surprisingly intact. Left in the condition in which it was found, The Sphere was first placed in Battery Park, but was relocated to Liberty Park, closer to its original location. 

9-11 Memorial

The National 9-11 Memorial honors and remembers the nearly 3,000 people who were killed on September 11, 2001 – and is a must-see on every itinerary planner for New York.

In place of where the Twin Towers once stood are now two reflecting pools. Etched in the railing surrounding the pools are names of the victims in New York, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon, as well as those who died in a World Trade Center bombing in 1993.

Among the many trees at the monument is The Survivor Tree, which was discovered in the wreckage but still lives. It serves as a reminder of resilience and rebirth. The 9-11 Memorial Museum offers additional detailed information. 

One World Trade Center

Also known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center was built from 2006 to 2013 on the north side of the 9/11 Memorial. The building stands at 1,776 feet (the year of US independence), which makes it the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the 7th tallest building in the world.

The One World Observatory , which offers a birds’ eye view over the city, is located on the 102nd Floor. However, when you visit New York on a budget, you can simply stand at the base of the tower and look up at it. 

To the east of the 9/11 Memorial is The Oculus, which was designed to look like a dove in flight. The unique building, which serves as a memorial and houses both a train station and a mall, cost an astounding $4 billion to build (most certainly NYC’s most expensive train station ever). From The Oculus, walk to the Cortlandt Street station and take the subway to East 23nd Street Station.

  Map of Sights in Lower Manhattan for Day 1

NYC Midtown marks the middle of Manhattan – and it is the district you will explore in the afternoon of Day 1 of your New York trip on a budget. Walking among the classic skyscrapers is one of the best things to do in NYC – and it’s absolutely free!

LUNCH – Shake Shack at Madison Square Park

Before you set off on your discovery of Midtown, stop for a budget Manhattan lunch at Shake Shack. In 2001, Shake Shack was just another food cart in Madison Square Park. By 2004, they transformed from a cart into a permanent residence, grilling up hot dogs and burgers for long lines of waiting customers. Today, the popular fast-food chain has more than 400 locations…but nothing beats the original!

Midtown Walking Tour

Our self-guided Midtown Manhattan walking tour passes by the best buildings in NYC. The route starts at the Flatiron Building and ends in the Broadway Theater District. The walk covers about 3 miles and should take 2-3 hours to complete. Use this Map  for walking directions to Midtown sights.

Flatiron Building

The 22-story, triangular Flatiron Building was completed in 1902 – at the time, it was one of the tallest buildings in the city. The name comes from the design resembling a clothes iron. Stand with your back toward the pointed tip of the Flatiron Building for a great view of the Empire State Building!

Empire State Building

The Art Deco Empire State Building has been a symbol of New York since it was completed in 1931. It’s total height, including the antenna, is 1,454 feet and it reigned as the world’s tallest building from 1931 until 1970.

For many visitors, a trip to the 86th and 102nd story observation decks is a must-do in NYC. However, the ticket is a bit pricey, so you will need to determine if you can squeeze it into your New York travel budget. 

New York Public Library

The main branch of the New York Public Library opened in 1911 and is an important NYC landmark. At the entrance, two stone lions (named Patience and Fortitude) guard the doors. However, the real gem of the library is the Rose Main Reading Room, which is lined with thousands of books. 

Bryant Park

Behind the library is Bryant Park. Designated a park in 1847, in the 1970s Bryant Park was the site of unruly rallies and drug deals. In 1988, the park was completely renovated, including the bathrooms, which had been closed for 35 years.

Today, the bathrooms are an odd highlight of the park, as the public toilets are said to be the nicest in the entire city (complete with floral arrangements and an attendant). Bryant Park is also home to one of the best NYC Christmas Markets!  

New York City Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Station has been a hub of NYC transportation since the year 1913. Today 750,000 people pass through GCT every day, not only to hop a train, but also to visit the shops and restaurants within the terminal.

First time visitors, however, will want to walk through the Main Concourse to look up at the impressive zodiac ceiling and the classic opal clock perched above the information booth. Public Bathrooms. 

Chrysler Building

Built in 1930 for the Chrysler car corporation, the Art Deco Chrysler Building features a ‘crown’ of steel (not a crown of hub caps, which is a popular urban myth). The building held the title as tallest building, but only for 11 months, until the Empire State Building was completed. The observation deck has been closed for decades, but fans of Art Deco and historic places might want to take a peek inside the lobby, which is the only portion open to the public. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Build between 1858 and 1878 (and replacing Old St. Patrick’s in Little Italy), St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic church in North America. Main features include the 330-foot spires, the stained-glass Rose window, the Tiffany & Co altars (of St. Louis and St. Michael) and as well as the manger scene during Christmas. 

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 buildings, originally designed and developed between 1930 and 1939 by the Rockefeller family. The Art Deco structures were declared both a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark in the 1980s. Among the most popular buildings are the Top of the Rock and Radio City Music Hall.

The two most recognizable statues at Rockefeller Center are Prometheus (a glittering statue in the Lower Plaza fountain) and Atlas (a 45-foot-tall sculpture across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral). The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink are main attractions during wintertime in NYC. 

Top of the Rock Observation Deck: The observation deck at Top of the Rock is another amazing viewpoint. In fact, we prefer the view from Top of the Rock over the Empire State Building. If you can fit the admission price into your NYC trip budget, we suggest heading up!

Radio City Music Hall

Home of The Rockettes dance company, Radio City Music Hall opened in 1932 featuring (at the time) the world’s largest auditorium. In 1978, the building was designated a New York City Landmark. Today, the 7-story-high neon signs glow bright and the theater is still used for performances and shows. 

Times Square

Nicknamed “The Center of the Universe,” Times Square is part of the entertainment district in NYC. It is probably the busiest, most congested area of the city (an estimated 330,000 people walk through Times Square each day). However, it is not a square at all, but two triangles created by the crisscrossing of 7th Avenue and Broadway.

Electronic billboards featuring advertisements light up the square – day and night – and brand name shops line the streets. Consider popping into the Hershey’s Store for a free mini-chocolate bar. The Times Square Ball that drops annually at midnight on December 31 to mark the new year occurs at One Times Square on the southern end.

Broadway Theater District

Although there is only one Broadway Theater, there are actually 41 theaters in New York’s Theater District that are collectively known as Broadway. Highly regarded as the top theater performances in the world, tickets are extremely expensive.

However, even on a cheap NYC trip, you might be able to get more affordable entry to Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway shows – and TKTS sells deeply discounted tickets the day of the show.

Besides seeking out the one-and-only Broadway Theater, others that may be of interest are the famous 1970s disco, Studio 54 and Concert Hall, Carnegie Hall. 

DINNER IN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

Now that you have discovered how to see New York on a budget and taken in some of the top sights, you have undoubtedly worked up an appetite! The good news is, we have two Midtown dining recommendations where you can eat in NYC on the cheap. 

The Halal Guys Food Cart

The Halal Guys is a classic New York success story. What began in 1990 as a hot dog cart transformed into filling a void in the Halal food market – and now they have more than 200 franchised locations. However, the original cart at West 53rd and 6th Avenue still operates, cranking out platters and sandwiches of chicken or gyro (or mix) topped with their secret ‘white’ or ‘red’ sauce starting at $9. Reviews for The Halal Guys .

Xi’An Famous Foods

Xi’An Famous is another well-known budget food stop in Midtown. The menu features a combination of Chinese and Middle Eastern fare, which is found in the city of Xi’An, China. The ‘cheap’ option is their Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger, but for a little more, the dumplings are even better! 

Map of Sights in Midtown for Day 1 

Day 2 of your NYC Trip on a Budget

On the second day of your 4-day trip to New York, wander the city’s most-loved and largest park and explore two often-missed neighborhoods: Roosevelt Island and East Harlem. Start at Subway Station: Cathedral Pkwy

CENTRAL PARK

Every New York Itinerary should include a visit to Central Park – and with four days in New York, there is ample time to see the many attractions. While the museums charge a fee to enter, the park itself is free to visit – so it is easy to include in a budget trip to New York!

Even if you plan a trip to NYC on a budget, you may want to splurge for entry into one of these museums. While there are many museums in or near Central Park, the top two are The Met and the American Museum of Natural History . 

Central Park Walking Tour – Part 1

Start your exploration of the west side of Central Park on a self-guided walking tour from north to south visiting some of the most features. The route extends 3.5 miles and should take about 2-3 hours. Use this Map for directions.

1. North Woods, 2. The Ravine, 3. The Loch

One of the most secluded and natural sections of Central park, North Woods, The Ravine and The Loch are also the most beautiful part of the park. The wooded area features ponds, streams and waterfalls.

4. North Meadow

The North Meadow is comprised of 23 acres of open space, which is most often used for organized sports in the summertime.

5. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Built as a temporary water supply for New York City in the 1860s, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir holds one billion gallons of water. That would only last the city 4 hours today!

6. Great Lawn

Located in the center of Central Park, the Great Lawn has been the site of many concerts, like Simon and Garfunkel, Bon Jovi and the New York Philharmonic. Public Bathroom at south end.

7. Belvedere Castle

Built in 1869, the fairytale Belvedere Castle provides fabulous views to the north (over Great Lawn) and to the south (over the Ramble). Weather instruments are hosted on the castle’s tower, allowing weathermen around the world to report the current weather in Central Park.  

8. The Ramble

Designed as a natural landscape, the Ramble is one of the popular places to visit in Central Park. The 38 acres of woods features several intertwining paths.

9. Strawberry Fields (and 10. The Dakota)

Dedicated to famed Beatles member John Lennon – and named after one of his songs, “Strawberry Fields Forever” – the tear-shaped garden (designed by Yoko Ono) is classified a Quiet Zone for meditation. At the center is a black-and-white tiled mosaic, spelling out “Imagine,” the title of the best-selling song.

The Dakota, or The Dakota Apartments, is a historic Renaissance structure on the northwest corner of 72nd Street and Central Park West. The building is where John Lennon lived from 1973 until he was fatally shot in front of it in 1980.

11. Tavern on the Green

A restaurant since 1934 (and a sheep fold for the 700 sheep that grazed in Central Park’s Sheep Meadow before that), Tavern on the Green is an NYC landmark restaurant serving upscale cuisine and classic cocktails. While a meal there isn’t for a trip to New York City on a budget, we do recommend at least stopping to take a look (especially during Christmas in NYC !).

12. Central Park Carousel

The carousel first opened in Central Park in 1871 (when it was powered by a mule and horse that were hidden below the ride). In total, there have been four carousels on the site; today’s carousel dates to 1908 and was restored for the park in 1990. 

13. Wollman Rink

The Wollman Rink, with NYC’s incredible skyline as a background, was opened in 1950 and has been featured in several films (like Serendipity and Love Story).

14. Gapstow Bridge

The picturesque Gapstow Bridge was built in 1896 and provides stunning NYC skyline views. It’s also a good spot for photo ops in Central Park. 

LUNCH AT CENTRAL PARK

Central Park is the perfect place for a picnic lunch – whether you are traveling to NYC on a budget or not! There are grocery stores and corner delis nearby where you can pick up picnic items. On the other hand, indulging in a famous New York City hotdog is a top tip for how to visit NYC cheap!

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart

At the southeast corner of Central Park, seek out the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart by the William Tecumseh Sherman Monument. Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart was started in 1916 by a Polish immigrant with a secret spice recipe. The original stand was on Coney Island and, back then, hot dogs only cost a nickel. Today, they are a bit more expensive, but may still fit into your New York trip budget. 

ROOSEVELT ISLAND

Roosevelt Island is a slender, 2-mile-long island in New York’s East River. In the 1800s, the area was used to conceal the ill and poor from the rest of society. A smallpox hospital, almshouse, penitentiary and asylum were built on the small spit that was renamed Welfare Island. Today, high-rise apartments are clustered here, but a few historical structures remain – along with a memorial. 

Exit Central Park from the southeast corner and walk east on 59th Street. Pass Bloomingdale’s and continue another block to the Roosevelt Tramway Plaza. The roundtrip walking distance is about 2 miles (including Roosevelt Island sights) and will take about 2 hours. Use this Map for the detour to the Tramway; Use this Map for Roosevelt Island.

Roosevelt Tramway

The 3,100-foot-long Roosevelt Island Tramway is an aerial commuter tram connecting to Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Opened in 1976, the tramway has two capsules, each of which can carry 125 passengers on the 3-minute ride. The cost of the ride is included with the weekly unlimited MetroCard – so it is essentially free to ride! 

Explore Roosevelt Island

There is an inexpensive bus that makes a loop around Roosevelt Island, but we think the best part of the island is the southern end, which is just a short walk from the Tramway station. The area hosts a memorial dedicated to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the remains of a hospital. Additionally, there are fantastic views of the NYC skyline. Public Bathroom. 

Walking Tour of Central Park – Part 2

Re-enter Central Park where you exited on the southeast corner. Start your discovery of the east side, traveling all the way to the far northeast corner. This 3-mile walk should take about 1-2 hours. Use this Map for walking directions.

18. Balto Statue

Balto is the famous Siberian husky that in 1925 led a team of sled dogs from Anchorage, Alaska to the town of Nome with the necessary medicine to stop a deadly epidemic. The dogs were considered heroes and Balto’s statue in Central Park commemorates their efforts.

19. The Mall

The Mall is a wide pedestrian path (not a shopping center) that is canopied by towering American Elm trees. The Literary Walk begins at the southern end of The Mall, featuring famous writers of the past. Follow The Mall to the north, which ends at Bethesda Terrace.

20. Bethesda Terrace, Fountain and Arcade

The grand and opulent Bethesda Terrace is a highlight of Central Park. The terrace overlooks The Lake and Bethesda Fountain. Beneath the terrace is the tiled arcade where musicians perform and wedding couples are photographed. Paddleboats can be rented nearby and The Loeb Boathouse restaurant is a popular spot to stop for an afternoon refreshment.

21. Hans Christian Andersen Statue

Author of The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid, Hans Christian Andersen’s statue is a favorite for children visiting Central Park – and it’s one of our favorite spots, too!

22. Conservatory Water Pond

Conservatory Water is a well-known Central Park pond that is used mostly for navigating model sailboats.

23. Alice in Wonderland Statue

In 1959, the bronze cast of characters from Alice in Wonderland was installed at the park, including Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter.

24. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or just The Met, is New York City’s most popular museum. The Met opened in 1880 and features major artworks from around the world. While The Met is not one of the cheap places to visit in New York, it is a top city attraction. You will need to determine if you want to include it in your 4 Days in New York Itinerary. 

25. Cleopatra’s Needle

The Obelisk, often called Cleopatra’s Needle, dates to the year 1450 BC, which makes it the oldest object in Central Park. It stands at 69-feet, weighs 220 tons and was erected in 1881. A matching Obelisk stands along the Thames River in London .

26. Conservatory Garden

The formally-planned Conservatory Garden features flowers, manicured hedges and fountains. It is a beautiful and peaceful place to relax in the middle of the hustle and bustle of NYC.

27. Duke Ellington Circle

At the northeastern tip of Central Park is Duke Ellington Circle. A statue of the famed jazz musician stands in the center of the plaza. ( Public Bathroom behind the statue. )

Map of Sights in Central Park and Roosevelt Island

EAST HARLEM

End the second day of your New York City trip on a budget in East Harlem. The neighborhood, which is also called Spanish Harlem or El Barrio, is the district that lies between the Upper East Side and Harlem.

Once settled primarily by Italians (and earning it the nickname Italian Harlem), the area saw an influx of Puerto Rican and Latin American immigrants in the mid-1900s. Today, it’s a diverse neighborhood filled with bodegas, inspiring street art and a variety of Latin American restaurants. Use this Map for East Harlem sightseeing.

East Harlem Sights

East Harlem is a district to be experienced, not necessarily explored with a checklist in hand. We recommend wandering freely, keeping an eye out for intriguing street art along the way. 

Graffiti Hall of Fame

East Harlem is a hotbed of street art. The walls of the Jackie Robinson Educational Complex Playground are covered in paint; the spot is now known as the Graffiti Hall of Fame. 

Street Art in East Harlem

However, the Graffiti Hall of Fame isn’t the only spot to find murals and messages in El Barrio. While the East Harlem Street Art is ever-changing, a few of our favorite murals when we were there were Tito Puente Oye Como Va (at 110th and 3rd Avenue); Angel Wings under the tracks (at Park Avenue and 111th); and a sketch by local street artist, James De La Vega (at 111th and Lexington Avenue). 

DINNER IN EAST HARLEM

One of the things we love best about East Harlem is that there are a variety of restaurants in a range of prices – which is fantastic if you are traveling to New York on a budget!

Drinks in East Harlem

Drinking at bars and restaurants in NYC is expensive. However, seeking out Happy Hours can definitely assist in keeping the budget in check. In East Harlem, we found a couple of places offering great happy hour prices for drinks.

Craft beer enthusiasts should head to East Harlem Bottling Co for a great selection of innovative brews. For those craving a Latin-inspired cocktail, go to Cascalote for happy hour margaritas. If you’re enjoying the vibe, consider staying for dinner – as the prices are fairly affordable for the modern Latin fare. 

Restaurants in East Harlem

If you want to keep your New York City trip cost to a minimum, check out the food options in East Harlem. We recommend eating cuchifritos, popular Puerto Rican soul food, at the aptly named Cuchifritos on 116th Street.

Meals of whole roasted chicken with sides and a large drink cost less than $25 and are enough to feed at least 4 people! Don’t need so much food? Sample an array of the fried Latin goodies displayed in the restaurant window; each nugget costs about $1.

If you are interested in dining at a historic establishment, try one of the Italian restaurants still operating in the neighborhood. For a truly classic place, go to Patsy’s Pizzeria . Opened in 1933, Patsy’s legendary regulars included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra and Francis Ford Coppola (who used the restaurant as inspiration for The Godfather films).

Map of Sights in East Harlem for Day 2 

Day 3 of your Budget NYC 4 Day Itinerary

Day 3 of this NYC trip itinerary is all about visiting the diverse districts of New York. Enjoy a scenic view, take a walk on an elevated park, then immerse yourself in a few of New York City’s best neighborhoods.

Use this Map for Day 3 NYC Sightseeing. Start at Subway Station: 34th Street-Hudson Yards

The Hudson Yards Vessel

Opened in 2019, The Vessel is a unique architectural structure of intertwining staircases and viewing platforms. As one of the best Free NYC attractions, tickets are required and need to be booked in advance. UPDATE: Closed indefinitely, but still a cool sight to see on your cheap New York trip. 

High Line Park

The High Line is NYC’s elevated-tracks-turned-park – and one of our favorite spots in the city! Visiting the park is free – so it won’t add a dime to your New York trip cost, either. 

The High Line Park – similar to the Promenade Plantee in Paris and Chicago’s Bloomindale Trail –  hovers above the Meatpacking District in Chelsea. From 1934 until the 1980s, trains ran along the tracks on Manhattan’s west side transporting meat and other goods from the industrial zone.

When the use of the trains became obsolete, the tracks were set to be demolished, but residents took up the cause to turn the relic into usable green space.

Throughout the modern park are art installations, amazing viewpoints and a few remaining railway tracks, which can be seen running through flowerbeds. Walk the length of The High Line from north to south – but detour at 16th street, taking the stairs to Chelsea Market.

Chelsea Market

The upscale fare at the uber-hipster Chelsea Market (which is essentially a fancy food court) is most likely over-priced for budget NYC travelers, but it is still worth a walk through. Check for free samples on the counter at Li-Lac Chocolates, which claims to be the oldest chocolate house in the city. After walking through Chelsea Market, return to The High Line and continue walking south.

Hudson River Greenway

The Hudson River Greenway is just steps from The High Line and a fantastic place to walk along the Hudson River. Part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway that follows almost the entire shoreline of Manhattan, strolling south on the Greenway offers fantastic views of the Hudson River and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Walk for a couple of blocks and then take West 11st Street to explore a favorite NYC neighborhood, Greenwich Village. 

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Greenwich Village – or simply The Village – is known as the artsy, bohemian district in Manhattan. The Village is home to NYU and Washington Square Park and the neighborhood is best explored with wonder. 

LUNCH IN GREENWICH VILLAGE

If you have already worked up an appetite, you are in luck because three of the best cheap places to eat in New York are located in atmospheric Greenwich Village. 

Percy’s Pizza

Hands-down our favorite cheap pizza in the city is Percy’s Pizza. It’s not just the crispy crust and ample cheese used to top each slice that gets us excited about this former NYC $1 slice pizza (even though now it’s $3!), but also the friendly neighborhood vibe and shake-it-yourself Parmesan. TripAdvisor Reviews Percy’s Pizza.

Mamoun’s Falafel

Mamoun’s Falafel has been serving up their signature Falafel sandwich  from the original Village location since 1971. The tasty sandwich gets bonus points for having heaping amounts of fresh veggies! TripAdvisor Reviews Mamoun’s Falafel.

Saigon Shack

Craving an amazing Banh Mi sandwich for a great price in NYC? Be sure to save room for a stop at the Saigon Shack. Crispy bread and fresh ingredients make this an absolutely tasty and inexpensive bite…the best Banh Mi we’ve had outside of Saigon ! 

Washington Square Park

Before leaving Greenwich Village, walk through Washington Square Park. It has the most interesting history of any NYC park. The area was originally marshland, then farmland, and then a graveyard (20,000 bodies are said to still be buried below!). After a brief period as Military parade grounds, it’s been a public park since 1950.. The notable features are the Washington Square Arch and the large fountain. ( Public Bathroom ) 

NEW YORK SOHO

From Washington Square Park, it is just a short walk south to Soho. Top-end retailers and art galleries line the streets of Soho, but history buffs and fans of architecture will enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood without ever stepping foot in a store.

The Cast Iron Historic District is a sub-district of Soho, which consists of more than 200 buildings featuring cast iron design. The area has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Fun Fact : The name Soho comes from it’s location; South of Houston…pronounced House -ton.

LITTLE ITALY NYC

New York Little Italy, which has dwindled to just 3 blocks on Mulberry Street, sits east of Soho. Although not the flourishing district it once was, we still think visiting the area is a NYC-must-see. In 1910, 10,000 Italians lived in this neighborhood – including many Mafia members. 

The shops and restaurants mostly cater to tourists who are enthralled by the tales of NYC’s crime families and the feeling of stepping into scenes from The Godfather. Follow this useful self-guided tour what on see in Little Italy NY. 

NEW YORK CITY CHINATOWN

This wouldn’t be the best NYC Itinerary on a budget if we didn’t visit Chinatown! Walk down Chinatown’s Pell Street, where neon signs display Chinese symbols and dried fish products overflow from markets. Known for a high concentration of Asian restaurants and street vendors hawking knock-off merchandise, a stroll through the neighborhood is truly a feast for the senses. 

Top Tip : Follow this self-guided tour of Chinatown for tips on what to see in NYC Chinatown.

Want a Guide to lead the way to Top NYC Neighborhoods? Take a Free Walking Tour! To join a FREE (tip-based) Guided Tour of Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown, make a reservation . 

DINNER IN CHINATOWN

One of the best things about NYC Chinatown is the food! And, with so many affordable restaurants in Chinatown, even travelers planning a cheap trip to NYC can eat in Chinatown without over extending the budget.

Our favorite way to feast in Chinatown is to grab mini take away meals from numerous establishments. To start, get a cheap portion of pork dumplings from Fried Dumpling . Then, make your way to Mei Li Wah Bakery for delicious baked pork buns ($1.50). Finally, pop into a noodle shop for more fantastic fare.

Map of Sights for Day 3 of our NYC Itinerary

Final Day of your New York City Itinerary

To wrap up your amazing 4-day trip to New York City, spend time in Brooklyn before ending your stay with a classic NYC deli meal. Start at Bedford Avenue Station

The Brooklyn borough is three times larger than compact Manhattan and quite a bit more time consuming to travel around. The once inexpensive area has seen a sweep of gentrification. Still, there are many interesting enclaves in Brooklyn to check out that will fit into a cheap New York trip budget.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is the original hipster district in Brooklyn, known for its incredible nightlife and trendy brunch spots. Note, however, that eating in Williamsburg is not one of the things to do in New York on a budget!

Instead, on cheap trips to New York, take a stroll around the stylish neighborhood (you can even use this self-guided Williamsburg Walking Tour ) then continue on to The Bushwick Collective via subway from Bedford Avenue Station to Jefferson Street Station . 

Bushwick Collective Street Art

Unlike Williamsburg, which is being polished clean, Bushwick is a gritty industrial neighborhood. The buildings’ exterior walls are perfect for artists to use as canvases for street art murals.

In now what is known as The Bushwick Collective, artists have livened up the district with colorful and contemplative art. One of the fun things to do in NYC on a budget is to peruse the neighborhood in search of the latest and greatest street art. 

Top Tip: Find the best street art in the neighborhood using this self-guided tour  complete with helpful map.

CHEAP LUNCH IN BROOKLYN

There are so many things to love about Brooklyn – and the food scene is most certainly one of them. From classic American eats to the best New York bagels to international fare to legendary markets, Brooklyn food is divine. While many Brooklyn restaurants will test the budget for a cheap trip to New York, there are still many affordable places to eat in Brooklyn, too.

Top Tip : After lunch, we head to Prospect Park, so you can grab a bite to go and eat in the park picnic-style.

Tina’s Place

An American greasy spoon, Tina’s Place cranks out cheap breakfast sandwiches and classic breakfast platters – but get there before 11am for the best deals. The diner is located in Bushwick – so you can walk there after (or before) seeking out street art. 

A&A Bake and Doubles Shop

Typical Trinidadian fare that is soft on the budget, but big on the taste buds, A&A is an absolute gem! Grab a couple of doubles (curried chickpeas in fried dough) – they start out at $2 each. To get to A&A, use the subway to Nostrand Ave Station . 

Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe

The bagels in NYC are out of this world – and they are one of our favorite things to eat in New York City on the cheap!

A bagel with schmear (that’s cream cheese) is a perfect affordable lunch. There are several bagel shops in Brooklyn where you can get your fix, but we recommend popping into Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe, where they make fresh bagels on site. 

Smorgasburg Market

If it’s a summer Sunday, head inside Prospect Park and the Smorgasburg Market , an open-air market with 100 food vendors dishing out delectable fare.

Prospect Park 

Designed by the same duo who laid out Central Park, Prospect Park features open fields, ample paths, a zoo, amphitheater and several lakes. Wander through the park from the Prospect Park subway station to the northwest to the Grand Army Plaza. ( Public Bathrooms in park. ) 

Brownstones of Park Slope

The Park Slope Brownstones are quintessentially Brooklyn. The term ‘brownstone’ comes from a type of sandstone building material used in many structures in NYC. However, it also refers to the architectural element of a staircase rising from street level to the front door on the second level.

There are a high concentration of brownstones in Brooklyn, with some of the most beautiful buildings in Park Slope. Head south on 8th Avenue from Grand Army Plaza and zigzag through the neighborhood or follow part of this walking tour .

Then take the subway from the 7 Av Subway Station to York Street Subway Station to DUMBO.

DUMBO, which stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” was once an industrial district. Today, the warehouse buildings are being used as galleries by artists and as offices by tech firms. The riverside park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

Brooklyn Bridge

After visiting the sights in DUMBO, it is time to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge – one of the best free activities in NYC! Taking 14 years to complete, the Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883 to connect Manhattan to Brooklyn over the East River. At the time, the 1,595-foot-structure was the longest suspension bridge in the world and an instant icon of the city. Often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World, the bridge is crossed by an estimated 150,000 vehicles and 4,000 pedestrians every day. Those who walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan are treated to the most spectacular Manhattan skyline views!

New York City Hall 

At the west end of the Brooklyn Bridge is City Hall Park. At the center of the park is the landmark New York City Hall, which was completed in 1812 and is the oldest city hall in the United States. The Office of the Mayor of New York and city council chambers are still located inside the building.

From City Hall Park, walk north on Center Street and take the subway from Chambers Street Subway Station to the Essex Street Station . Walk north to Katz’s Deli.

Katz’s Deli

A lot of a splurge on a low-budget New York trip, we think a meal at Katz’s Deli is worth it! With a history that dates to 1888 – and meat that takes 30 days to cure – Katz’s Delicatessen is legendary in New York City. Many movies and TV shows have filmed scenes at Katz’s Deli, including a famous scene from When Harry Met Sally.

Pastrami on Rye is the thing to order, but it’s a bit of a budget-buster, costing more than $25. However, it can easily be shared with two people and is oh-so tasty!  

Pro Tip: If the prices at Katz’s Deli push the budget for your New York trip, opt instead to eat at Veselka. The nearby Ukrainian restaurant is a favorite NYC diner for hearty yet inexpensive eats. Established in 1954, the restaurant is open 24/7!

McSorley’s Old Ale House

The final stop on our NYC travel itinerary is a classic and much-loved New York bar, McSorely’s Old Ale House. Claiming to be NYC’s oldest continuously operated pub, McSorely’s was opened in 1854. The historic boozer, which was a “men’s only” bar until 1970, has been visited by many famous people, including Abe Lincoln, Dustin Hoffman and the New York Rangers hockey team after they won the Stanley Cup in 1994!

Inside the cozy tavern, newspaper articles and old photos cover the walls, sawdust covers the floor and classic bartenders pour the beers. They keep it simple with just two choices of house beer, light or dark, and it’s cash only!

Map of Sights on Day 4 for our New York Itinerary

Best New York Itinerary Suggestions

Whether you are trying to see New York in a day or have a week, we can help! Using our New York City Itinerary 4 Days as a base, we have created alternate NYC itineraries that can fit into your timeline.

1 Day in NYC Budget Trip Plan

Trying to see NYC in a day is a huge challenge – but it is possible to get a sweeping overview in a single day using our succinct New York One Day Trip Planner. 

NYC Itinerary 1 Day

The best way to create a NYC 1 Day Itinerary is to simply follow Day 1 of our New York City 4 Day Itinerary. If time permits, add a visit to Central Park to the end of your day, strolling through the southern end of the park after sightseeing in Midtown. 

2 Days in NYC Itinerary

Planning 2 days in New York on a budget? Whether you are visiting mid-week or trying to create a Weekend in NYC Itinerary, there are numerous ways to plan your time in the city. 

NYC Itinerary 2 Days

Don’t stress about what to do in New York for 2 days – we’ve got it covered! We recommend following Day 1 from above – then combine Days 2 and 3 to create an optimal NYC 2 Day Itinerary. For example, on the second day, spend the morning in Central Park and in the afternoon, explore Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown.

3 Days in NYC on a Budget

The choice of things to do in New York in 3 days are almost endless – but we have designed a great 3 Day Itinerary NYC for you! 

NYC Itinerary 3 Days

Using our NYC Itinerary 4 Days as a guide – we’ll optimize for the best sightseeing. For a great 3 Days in New York City Itinerary, follow our tips for Day 1 (Lower Manhattan and Midtown), then on the second day, use Day 3 (High Line and NYC neighborhoods). On the last day, combine Days 2 and 4 (spending the morning in Central Park and the afternoon in Brooklyn). 

5 Days in New York

Our tips for what to see in New York in 5 days includes more district discovery and a possible spurge in the budget. 

NYC Itinerary 5 Days

Spending 5 days in NYC? Incredible! Use our New York in 4 days, then a bit more! For example, add in Hell’s Kitchen and/or Harlem. Alternatively, you could create a New York Itinerary 5 Days that includes one day of splurging on experiences, like Top of the Rock or The Met .

7 Days in New York

Looking for a 1 week in New York Itinerary? We just happen to have one of those! Check out our suggestions in our New York City One-Week Itinerary .

How To Plan a Trip To New York on a Budget

When we talk about how to visit NYC on a budget, we are not only talking about sightseeing and attractions, but how to plan every aspect of the trip. So, we have a few more budget-saving tips that apply to the overall cost of a trip to New York, too. 

Trip to New York Cost and Money Saving Tips

As outlined above, our only costs while sightseeing were the MetroCard and meals. However, there are other expenses involved in a trip to New York City. We are sharing our advice on how to plan a trip to New York on the cheap when searching for hotels and transport. 

Finding Cheap Places To Stay in New York City

Accommodations can easily account for the biggest cost of a trip to NYC. We wont’ lie: booking cheap accommodation in NYC is quite the task! Cheap hotels in NYC don’t really exist, and you wouldn’t likely want to stay in the absolute cheapest places anyway.

Budget Accommodation New York

If you are searching for where to stay in NYC on a budget, then we have a few recommendations. 

First, start your search as early as possible, as the best value hotels get booked the quickest. 

Second, consider looking outside of Manhattan. Brooklyn, Harlem and even Jersey City are where to stay in NYC for cheap. Although, finding anything less than $200 might still be a struggle (especially on weekends). 

Third, if you do stay outside of Manhattan, be sure to choose accommodations that are close to subway access! This will save heaps of time when transiting into the city for sightseeing. 

Finally, be flexible about your accommodation choice. For example, the Nap York Capsule Hostel is a great budget option for travelers looking for an affordable bed in the heart of the city. The hostel gets rave reviews for being quiet, clean and offering privacy for each bunk. 

Start your search on Booking.com – but first read our tips for Finding Top Hotels at the Best Price .

Airbnb in NYC

For more affordable accommodations, consider staying in an Airbnb Apartment . We have found that staying in apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms – with the added benefit of a kitchen and, usually, more space. While there’s been a lot of changes on how Airbnb can operate in NYC, there are still private rooms in Queens, Harlem and Jersey City that start at about $100.

NYC Housesitting

On our budget trip to New York, we were house and pet-sitting , so our accommodations were free. Yep, free . Sound interesting? Find out more about how to become a house sitter in our article, International Housesitting . 

Getting Around NYC for Cheap

One of the top tips for travel to New York City on a budget is to avoid taxi cabs! Cabs in NYC are notoriously expensive – not to mention, the traffic is horrendous. Uber is a better option, but still expensive. We do not recommend driving in NYC for any reason.

For our outlined 4 Day New York City Itinerary, we suggest using the subway, buses and walking – it’s the cheapest way to travel in New York! The unlimited weekly MetroCard is one of the best New York City travel trips for budget travelers. 

MetroCard: How To Travel Cheap in New York

A weekly unlimited MetroCard allows access to the subway, buses and the Roosevelt Tramway for seven days. The 7 day unlimited pass becomes financially beneficial if used for at least 12 rides. Our 4 Day New York itinerary includes 16 rides.

For the best, up-to-minute NYC public transportation options, we recommend using Google Maps. Just make sure to carry a portable power bank , as we needed the extra boost for our phones by the end of each day!

Tips for using the NYC Subway

• Before entering the subway, check for a direction on the station sign. Some stations are direction-specific, but not all.
• Swipe your card at a steady pace. Going too fast or too slow won’t work. 
• When a train approaches, check the sign on the front and side of the cars to ensure it is the train you want (several trains use the same platform).
• Forget what you’ve heard about attitudes – most New Yorkers are actually incredibly nice and helpful, especially when it comes to assisting with the subway. If you are unsure where to go, just ask a fellow passenger!
• For more tips on using the NYC subways and buses, go to the official MTA Website . 

Getting To NYC

New York City is well connected to…everywhere. The metropolis can be reached by plane, train, boat and car. However you arrive, you should include the cost in your vacation budget for New York City. 

Finding Cheap New York Flights

There are three major airports that serve NYC: John F Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark International (EWR). When you travel to New York on a budget, your flight will likely account for a big portion of your overall trip cost. We start our search for the best deals on airline tickets and cheapest flights to New York on Skyscanner.

Trains to NYC

New York City is connected to major US cities by train, too – like Boston , Philadelphia and Washington DC . Although train travel in the US can be slow and expensive, short train trips from destinations on the east coast can be one of the ways to travel to New York cheap. 

More Tips for New York Travel on a Budget

We have shared some of our best tips on how to visit New York on a budget, but we have a few more pieces of advice for planning a cheap New York trip. 

Cheap Eats in NYC

Eating at sit-down restaurants in NYC is expensive, which is why we chose takeaway food for our NYC Budget Itinerary. However, if you have a week in NYC, pop into one of the many New York grocery stores, corner markets or delis, where you can buy more affordable food.

Cheap Sightseeing in NYC

Our itinerary includes incredible free sightseeing in NYC that doesn’t cost a single cent. However, if visiting some of the iconic New York sights is high on your list, buying a New York Sights Pass might be financially beneficial.

New York Sightseeing Deals

Top NYC sightseeing passes promise to save you time and money – and they certainly can if you choose the right one! Some offer unlimited sights for a specific number of days (1 to 10 days), while others offer a number of sights (2 to 12 attractions) that can be visited over a certain time period.

• The New York Sightseeing Pass offers both types, one for a specific number of days and another for a specific number of sights. 
• The New York Pass is a great way to visit New York on a budget – as it offers access to more than 100 attractions and tours for time periods of 1 to 10 days.
• New York CityPass is another fantastic sightseeing card for a cheap trip to New York City. The card features the top city attractions at one low price.
• You can also save money with discounts of up to 40% on New York City tours and Activities with Viator .

Shopping in New York on a Budget

New York City is one of the premier shopping destinations in the world. However, many budget travelers skip shopping on New York cheap trips…but you don’t have to! Rather than shop at the luxury stores on posh 5th Avenue, seek out top thrift stores – they are the best places to shop in NYC on a budget! Top picks for thrift threads on Cure Thrift, Beacon’s Closet and AuH20. The Bloomingdale’s Outlet on the Upper West Side is another great place to find clothes for cheap in NYC.

Travel to NYC on a Budget: Packing Checklist

Use our free New York trip planning checklist and our trusted packing hacks for your budget NYC vacation!

Walking Shoes for New York

A good pair of walking shoes are a must for your 4 day trip to New York City! I like lightweight shoes, like these by Columbia , and Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes. Read our top tips for the Best Travel Shoes !

NYC Weather Gear

Nearly all of the sights on our 4-Day NYC Itinerary are outdoors. Make sure you are prepared with appropriate gear. In the summertime, make sure to pack sunscreen , your sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat . If rain is in the forecast, bring a travel umbrella and travel rain poncho – or a better raincoat . 

Travel Camera for NYC Photos

New York is a stunning city! We recommend using a proper travel camera with a zoom lens for your trip to NYC. We travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens , which takes amazing photos. We also carry a Canon PowerShot ELPH , which is small enough to fit into a zippered pocket and an ideal budget camera for city sightseeing.

Day Bag for New York

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you will certainly want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your essential travel items .

Start planning your trip to NYC, USA ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Need Ideas for Quick US Trip Destinations?

We highlight some of our favorite locations in The Best Weekend Getaways in USA . Also check out our top Underrated US Destinations !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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NYC On A Budget: 15 Tips For Cheap Travel To New York

Sure, New York City can be expensive (it was recently named one of the world’s 10 priciest cities to live in). But here’s the thing—a vacation to NYC really doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are a lot of ways to keep your trip to super affordable. Seriously! Here are 15 ways to travel to New York City on a budget.

Questions after reading our *two cents* (sorry, bad joke)? Send us a message !

#1: Don’t stay in Manhattan

If you’re wondering where to stay in New York that won’t consume your entire travel budget, here’s a tip: don’t limit yourself to Manhattan. You’ll find much better deals on hotels and Airbnbs in other boroughs—without sacrificing your experience.

Brooklyn neighborhoods like Park Slope and Williamsburg are full of New York charm (not to mention tons of awesome restaurants, bodegas, bars, and parks). A three-star hotel in Brooklyn or Queens can save you around $100/night compared to one in Manhattan. Cha-ching! That means more cash for Broadway tickets (or hot dogs, we don’t judge).

Maybe  you'll opt for the ultimate money-saving accommodations by camping upstate. Our locals in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills can help any camping or hiking you want to do in their backyard.  Learn more . 

#2: Use the subway to get around

Knowing how to use New York’s public transportation is crucial, since the subway is hands-down the best and cheapest way to get around. It’s safe, easy to use, and extensive. We get it can be intimidating for first time users—but it’s so worth it. A single ride is less than $3, which is pennies in comparison to the $30–$60 you may spend on an Uber or taxi.

Our friends at  Two Wandering Soles suggest getting the 7-day unlimited pass. Check out their other budget tips ! 

#3: Eat like a local

One of the best ways to keep your NYC trip under budget is to eat like a local—by indulging in the city’s incredible cheap eats! We’re talking breakfast cart bagels , $1 pizza slices, halal food , and more. Our advice: chat with New York local about their favorite places for dollar dumplings, cheap falafel, and the best happy hour deals around.

#4: Take advantage of museum deals

Lots of frequently asked questions about NYC concern its museums. Which ones are the best? What’s absolutely worth seeing? Do I have to go to the Met and the MoMA? (answer: yes.) Are they expensive?

Here’s the truth: in New York, no one pays the full price at museums. That’s because most museums in NYC have free days as well as pay-as-you-wish days—so do a bit of research and you’ll have no trouble staying under budget! Psst—the Brooklyn Museum and the American Museum of Natural History are always pay-as-you-wish. And they’re both awesome!

#5: Don’t spend $ chasing the best views—check out these free vistas instead

Speaking of free, don’t overspend for views at the Empire State Building or 1 World Trade Center. There are free ways to get awesome panoramic views of NYC—and some are even better than the ones you have to pay for.

• The Staten Island Ferry: The Staten Island Ferry is free to take, and it provides incredible views of the Manhattan skyline as well as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (it sails right by both). It’s also a wonderful way to cool down on a summer day. Plus, they sell beer on board!
• The High Line: The High Line is an impressive way to see the city from an unusual perspective. Once an elevated railroad, the High Line is now a park filled with greenery and public art.
• Brooklyn Heights Promenade: For a killer Manhattan view, check out the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The gorgeous, serene view of the skyline across the water will make your Instagram followers so jealous.
• The one exception: The view from the Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) is pretty phenomenal—plus, you get to actually *see* all the famous buildings. So if you’re going to pay for a view in New York City, pay for a view there.

#6: Walk or bike between activities and sights

New York City is so walkable. Manhattan is largely designed as a grid, making it easy to navigate even for the most directionally-challenged among us. Plus, Citi bikes are everywhere .

#7: Plan your trip for the winter

New York travel prices can be steep, especially during peak travel seasons. If you’re looking to design a budget trip to New York City, think about visiting in the winter.

Will it be cold? Yes, probably. But New York City in the winter is a magical place. Between ice-skating, hot chocolate, and holiday decorations, it’s an enchanting time of year to visit (and you’ll save some major bucks by traveling in the off-season).

#8: Find cheaper (and more authentic) versions of typical tourist destination

Avoid the tourist traps and see New York like a local . There are tons of ways to experience classic NYC activities (like comedy shows and bakery crawls) on the cheap—and without the tourist crowd. These tips are just the ‘tip of the iceberg’ though— talk to an NYC trip planner for a boatload of 1:1 personalized recs.

• Instead of the Comedy Cellar, go to an open-mic night: There are so many bars and theaters around New York that have free live comedy! The comedy may be more hit-and-miss, but you’ll definitely stumble upon some gems. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (UCB) is a local favorite.
• Instead of Little Italy, go to Arthur Avenue: New Yorkers know that Little Italy hasn’t been the best place in town for Italian food in almost a century. Instead, head north to the Bronx. Arthur Avenue has some of the best Italian eats in town.
• Instead of Magnolia Bakery, go to Molly’s Cupcakes: Sure you could visit the bakery made famous by Sex in the City, but to satisfy a sweet tooth without the crowds, opt for a cupcake at Molly’s Cupcakes or a cookie at Levain Bakery (it’s a local favorite).

#9: Explore the city’s amazing parks

Don’t get us wrong, Central Park is breathtaking. It’s full of great trails, a zoo, beautiful lakes (look out for the hot duck !) and plenty of green space. But the New York City park scene is way more than just Central Park.

• Prospect Park: Nestled alongside the fantastic Brooklyn Museum and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens you might like Prospect Park even more than Central Park. Full of green space, gorgeous lakes, and beautiful shady bridges, you can spend an entire afternoon exploring the nooks and crannies of this magical part of Brooklyn.
• Washington Square Park : There’s always something happening in Washington Square Park. The center of the vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood, Washington Square is home to New York University—making it a youthful, lively spot. There are always people around—lounging in the grass, listening to live music, or challenging each other to a game of chess.
• Riverside Park : One of the less-frequented parks in New York City, Riverside Park runs along the Hudson River parallel to Columbia University’s campus on the Upper West Side. We suggest walking north through the park and then looping back toward Columbia—there, you can check out President Ulysses S. Grant’s tomb .

#10: Make sure to get discount Broadway tickets

Obviously, catching a Broadway show is one of the things to do in New York City. And yes—you can do it on the cheap!

Here’s what you do: check out the TKTS Booth in Times Square (there are also locations in Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan). There, you can find theatre tickets with steep discounts: sometimes up to 50% off! Get there early in the day to grab tickets before they’re gone.

Pro tip : If you do choose to pick up tickets in Times Square, be on your guard. Although New York City is safe , Times Square is a tourist hub, and pickpockets (and scam artists) know it. For more info on common scams, talk to someone who lives in New York .

#11: For phenomenal views on the cheap, walk across the bridges

You could spend a precious subway swipe to get to Brooklyn. Or, for free, you could simply walk across one of the incredible bridges that connect Brooklyn to Manhattan. This is an awesome, free activity: not only does it offer some amazing views, but it’s also an excellent way to traverse the city.

• The Brooklyn Bridge: The iconic Brooklyn Bridge is the top walking choice for many visitors—historic and easily accessible, it provides awesome views of lower Manhattan. Plus, there are no trains, which (aside from the chatter of other people) makes it a quieter walk.
• The Manhattan Bridge: One of the best parts of crossing the Manhattan bridge is the view it provides of the Brooklyn Bridge! And since most tourists opt to cross the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan bridge is a good way to avoid the crowds.
• The Williamsburg Bridge: Williamsburg is so hip, and what’s more hipster than using an alternative form of transportation? The perk here is the double view of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. As trains run across the Williamsburg Bridge and Manhattan Bridge, they can get loud, however.

#12: Check out all the awesome, free historical sights

If you love history, you’re in luck: New York City is bursting with historical landmarks, monuments, and memorials. As public spaces, they’re totally free to check out. Some of our favorite places to visit in New York involve history (like Alexander Hamiton’s grave at Trinity Church, the Civil War arch north of Prospect Park, and that Grant tomb we mentioned earlier).

Check these sites out for sure, but for total immersion in New York’s history ask a local history buff to make you a custom walking map that hits the spots you want to see. 

#13: Sign up to be in the audience of a live show

Do you love late night TV? Great news—you can attend your favorite late night shows for free . It just takes some advance planning. Shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and the Daily Show with Trevor Noah offer deals on free tickets.

#14: Cheers! Take a free brewery tour

Craft beer is having a  moment in  New York. There are a lot of awesome breweries around town—and many of them offer tours! The Chelsea Brewery , Brooklyn Brewery (the basic tour), and The Bronx Brewery all offer free * tours.

*Of course, we can’t guarantee that you won’t spend a few bucks after the tour.

#15: Get insider recommendations from a New York local

When it comes to things to do in New York, you could rely on Google articles from three years ago—or you could ask a trip planner who actually *lives* in New York for recommendations.  They know all the best stuff to do, see, and experience at any budget—because New York is their city! Plus, since your local creates a custom itinerary just for you, you’ll get to see all the stuff you want without a bunch of boring filler activities. No fiddling with annoying logistics! And who knows—you might even become best friends.

You’re totally prepared to enjoy the best of New York City—without emptying your savings for the trip! For even more budget tips, be sure to talk with a local NYC travel expert . They’ll help design a custom itinerary that hits everything you want to see, plus all the insider secrets you could ever need. Even better, they’ll be around with 24/7 phone support to help if you run into any issues. Any questions? Feel free to send us a message ! And don’t forget to check out:

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• NYC Travel FAQ 2024
• Prices in New York—A Guide to Spending Money
• Places to Stay in New York City
• The Dos and Don'ts of New York Travel
• Things to Do in NYC 2024
• Transportation in New York City—A Guide

Looking for more info?

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo on a Budget in New York City: 50+ Tips to Make NYC Affordable

March 1, 2024 by Janice Waugh

Is it possible to travel solo to New York City on a budget?

Yes. But, it will take some planning.

While New York City can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable things to do and see. There are always free events going on, off-broadway theater, and, of course, the energy of this amazing city. I've been many times and I never get tired of New York or stop finding new places to eat, visit, and explore.

Compared to most people, I do New York on a shoestring. So, I have advice for you.

The companion post to this is Best Places to Stay in New York City for Solo Travelers .

Table of Contents

A Fabulous Solo Trip to New York on a Budget

It's true that New York City is expensive.

It's also true that you can have a great time visiting the city without spending a fortune.

The key, I think, is to take your time and dig in a little deeper than the average tourist. Travel a little more slowly. Take public transit. Go to events that locals attend. Eat at smaller restaurants rather than those of celebrity chefs. The bottom line is, don't focus on the high ticket tourist activities that eat up your time and your budget. And, if there are things like going to the top of the Empire State Building that you think are a must, list them all and see what is truly important to you. Then cut the rest off your list and take advantage of some of the tips below.

So that the Big Apple doesn't take a big bite out of your wallet, here's my take on the best of budget New York City for solo travelers.

Getting Around New York City on the Cheap

Balancing safety with your budget is important when you travel solo. The New York transit system works well and is generally very safe. Yellow cabs are more expensive but safe. Uber and Lyft are a slightly more expensive option to cabs and have their safety system built in through the rating process. I don't recommend ever getting into an unmarked cab, though I have often been offered one in New York.

Here are options for getting into, out of, and around the city.

• From the airport to the city: take your pick. This article gives you information on traveling from all NYC airports via public transit . In some cases the GO Airlink Shuttle is a better deal in terms of time and money.
• Get a MetroCard.  The bus and subway system in New York City is a really efficient way to get around. The MetroCard costs $1 and you can load money onto it and swipe as you go, or you can tap your contactless debit or credit card or smartphone digital wallet. Most fares are $2.90. You can check out all the options here .
• Take the people's ferry . The Staten Island Ferry is free and offers such a great view of the city. It runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with more frequent service during rush hour on weekdays (when it is packed, so you might want to avoid commuting hours to enjoy a more leisurely experience). You can get free Wi-Fi on the ferry and in the ferry terminals. Here's a post that gives you great information on a Staten Island tour . Pro tip from a local: Christine says, “Make sure you are on the starboard side, and preferably on the deck outside when you leave from the Battery.”
• Take a bus tour. A Hop On, Hop Off tour is great if you're short on time or want to get an overview of the city before you dig into its specifics. If I only have a couple of days in a city I generally take one.
• Explore New York City by bike. Like most large cities, New York has a bike sharing service. City Bike has stations around the city where you can rent a bike for $4.79 per trip to a 30 minute maximum or $19 for unlimited 30-minute rides for 24 hours. There are hundreds of stations where you can rent a bike and a map to confirm availability at a station near you. Here's a link to some of the best cycling routes in NYC.
• Walk and soak up the city.  Budget New York City definitely includes walking, which is great because there are so many wonderful areas to explore. As you walk, listen to the city as well. It's quite unique.

Our Solo Travel Society readers give walking a big thumbs-up for those who are solo on a budget in New York City:

• Sandra – I had a great day exploring Harlem for next to nothing. It's easy to get to on the Metro and great if you want to explore Black history & music plus some wonderful architecture.
• Tracy – Staying in the city can be expensive but being there doesn’t need to be. There are tons of free things to do if you can walk. Walking around the park, the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is fun, and the Highline is fabulous. Cut through Chelsea Market while walking it and pick up a picnic lunch which will be cheaper than a restaurant meal.
• Ian – The 9/11 memorial is a nice walk, then onto Battery Park. Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is nice to walk around, after walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. There's a nice food hall next to the merry-go-round. Also, if you are in Dumbo, walk along the promenade on the other side of the bridge. They have turned the old piers into floating parks and there are also sports venues with waffleball, roller hockey, basketball, etc.

Where to Eat Cheap in New York City and Feel Comfortable Solo

• Go to Arturo's for a slice and some jazz . A New York City institution in the West Village, Arturo's has been serving up coal oven pizza and nightly jazz since 1957. They also offer a wide choice of Italian food and gluten-free options. I had the arugula salad with shaved parmesan and a 13″ pizza that I could only eat a third of. The service is great. Eating at the bar, which is a social option when you're traveling solo on a budget in New York City, is fun here.
• Enjoy Beatnic vegan restaurant . By Chloe has been renamed to Beatnic. There are four New York City locations . Healthy and yummy! They also take good care of gluten-free patrons. A casual atmosphere makes Beatnic great for solo travelers.
• Check out a little bar called  George Keeley . Located at Amsterdam and 83rd it offers local beers and exceptionally good “everything bagel fries”. Grace went here after her run. See Grace’s Nerdy New York City Adventure .
• Eat at a food truck. Food trucks can be a big part of a budget New York City experience but where do you find them? Food trucks are always on the move. Here's a site that will tell you where and when the most popular food trucks are in NYC .
• Get your free pizza . The Alligator Lounge offers free pizza with the purchase of a drink every day of the week along with karaoke, trivia, comedy, or whatever's going the night you're there.
• Consult a local guide . Check out TimeOut New York's cheap eats guide for their latest recommendations. Also, Eater NY has a list of 40 dining options for under $20 across the city.

Top Things To Do in New York City Traveling Alone

• Big Apple Greeter . Whatever your interests, with luck, you'll get a volunteer tour guide who shares them and will show you their beloved New York.
• New York By Foot . Pay-what-you-wish, with no set fee. Think about how much a 2-hour tour would cost you otherwise and tip generously if you enjoyed yourself.
• Tour Grand Central Station . These range from free or pay-what-you can walking tours, to GPS guided tours for $2.99, to guided tours of variable prices.
• High Line Tour: From Freight to Flowers . Hear the story behind New York City’s park in the sky. Free tours are led by High Line Docents, knowledgeable volunteer guides who offer you an insider’s perspective on the park’s history, design, and landscape.
• Brooklyn Literary Audio Walking Tour . Created by the Brooklyn Public Library, this audio tour guides you from neighborhood to neighborhood, telling you about the literary sites along the way: fictional places where novels have been set, real apartments where the authors once lived, and the libraries they visited.
• Flatiron NoMad Walking Tour . Learn the fascinating details and scandalous tidbits of the past that make this area integral to New York and U.S. history. It includes some of the city’s most notable landmarks, including the New York Life Building, the MetLife Clock Tower, the Appellate Courthouse, and the famous Flatiron Building.
• Get the New York City Discount Pass . There are three options: the New York CityPASS ticket, which includes admission to 5 Big Apple attractions; the New York C3 ticket, a three-admission pass designed for shorter-stay visitors; and the New York C-All pass, which offers one-time admission to 10 attractions over 9 days. Have a look and see if the New York CityPASS will save you money on what you want to do in New York.
• Visit museums . Watch for free times for visiting the many museums in the city. Here is a list of free museum entrance days . Note: The Museum of Modern Art is free for New York State residents only.
• Go to Cathedral of Saint John the Divine. Located on the upper west side,  Saint John the Divine  is a massive cathedral and a major attraction in the city. Bonus: down the block is the diner featured in the Seinfeld series.
• Go shopping and get a deal . Here's a guide to shopping deals in New York City. You can also check out the NYC Sample Sales Calendar on The Stylish City website.
• TodayTix . This is an app for getting discount theater tickets in New York City, London, Toronto and other major cities. The last time I was in New York, I tested it on tickets to see a show. The seat I got sells for $109 online. On TodayTix I chose the lottery option. If I had won, I would have got my ticket for $25. I received an email that said I didn't win but I could buy a ticket for $30, which I did! Before buying, I looked at reviews of the service to make sure they were legitimate and I turned on my VPN as I was going to use my credit card on public Wi-Fi (for more on this, read Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations ). I picked up my ticket from a TodayTix customer service person outside the theater.
• Upright Citizens Brigade Theater. This is a great deal though their theaters have closed. They are planning to continue in a pared-down format. I'm leaving it on the list in hopes that it becomes possible to attend their performances again.   Founded by Amy Poehler and others, UCBT also offers classes. You can join their mailing list to find out when performances resume.
• Buy discount Broadway tickets . Shows on Broadway are expensive, but, if you're willing to stand in line, you can buy tickets for 20%-50% off on the day of the show. There are a couple of places you can do this but go to the  TKTS Discount Booths (their flagship location is in Times Square) and you'll be supporting the non-profit Theatre Development Fund.
• Off-Broadway productions . Off-Broadway is cheaper than on, so check out The New York Theatre Guide to Off-Broadway shows.
• Go to a Poetry Slam in Brooklyn . The iconic BRIC Arts Media Center hosts exhibitions, concerts, performances, and screenings year-round. Many events are free.
• Get your Shakespeare on. Normally, from late May to mid-August you can enjoy Shakespeare under the stars in Central Park. In 2024, things are going to run a little differently, while the open-air Delacorte Theater is under construction. The Public Theater will be taking the show on the road, offering free programming in a variety of locations around the city. Get all the details here .
• Danielle –  “For free and/or cheap stuff to do, check out  the skint . It's the absolute best. “
• Karla  uses  playbill.com  to get discounted tickets in advance.
• Kim – “If you want to see a Broadway show, look into the Theatr app for last minute cheaper tickets.” (This app connects people who have tickets they're not using with people who want to buy or exchange for face value or less.)
• Christopher recommends going to small indie theaters instead of Broadway shows. “Go see bands at dive bars in Alphabet City instead of concerts at Madison Square Gardens.”
• Denise recommends 1ota for information on getting tickets to a taping of your favorite television show while you're in the city.

Live Like a Local in New York City

• Go to Chess Forum . Chess lovers must go to Chess Forum . If you want to learn chess you must go. If you want to see a Greenwich Village institution, go. Chess Forum is “located at the original site of Grandmaster Nicolas Rossolimo's Chess Studio. Bobby Fischer was a frequent visitor to the studio and so were art and film greats Marcel Duchamp and Stanley Kubrick.”
• Go to local art galleries . On the recommendation of Imid from Chess Forum, I went to the Pomegranate Gallery where I had the great fortune of meeting Oded Halahmy, the artist and gallery owner. “Oded Halahmy was born in Iraq, moved with his family to Israel in the 1950s, was educated at St. Martin's School of Art in London, taught sculpture, and is in the collection of the Guggenheim Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum, and the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, as well as many other public and private collections worldwide.”
• Join a local running group . The  North Brooklyn Runners  is just one of the groups you can join for a run and a coffee afterwards. Here's a list of running groups in NYC.
• A calendar of free events.  You can see what's free at  DoNYC.com and Free NYC events on eventbrite . There are plenty of entertainment options to be found when you're traveling solo on a budget in New York City.
• Check out Meetup.com . Hiking, architecture, technology, wine: there are groups for people interested in every subject imaginable. Find a Meetup in New York City and go to meet locals who have similar interests as you.
• Go to an Open Mic . In a city with as much talent as New York you know that the Open Mic scene has to be a good one. And where there's an Open Mic there are always friends (locals) out to support the artists. Here's a list of Open Mic events in the city.
• Go kayaking on the Hudson. What a city! The Downtown Boat House promotes public access to the waterfront for all and offers free kayaking from May to October. Don't know how to kayak? Take one of their free classes.
• The drama of chess. Go to the southwest corner of Washington Square and watch the drama as people try to beat the regulars. You can also test your own skills at $5 a game.
• Take a beer tour and tasting.   Brooklyn Brewery hosts tours and tastings  are offered Monday to Friday. Check for details.
• Bookstores worth browsing.   Spoonbill Books ,  Berl's Brooklyn Poetry Shop ,  Housing Works Bookstore Cafe . Here is a list of 15 of the Best Bookstores in NYC .
• Visit the local chapter of your favorite organization . Are you a member of a service group or association? If so, plan to go to a local chapter meeting and see the city through a local's eyes – and maybe find yourself a volunteer tour guide! Read Take Your Membership Benefits on the Road: 11 Ways to Save for more ideas to save through organizations you already belong to.

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This is how you visit New York City on a budget

Mar 22, 2024 • 8 min read

A day exploring Central Park won't cost you a thing © Image Source / Getty Images

It's time to face facts – the magnificent metropolis of New York City has never come at a cut price and the global cost-of-living crisis hasn't helped matters.

But as any native New Yorker knows. cut-price experiences are still to be found around town if you know where to look. Some of the city’s most iconic attractions charge no fees at all, while many museums offer free or reduced admission on certain days.

With a little guidance, discount tickets to see world-class performing arts are easy to score. And people-watching in parks, along sidewalks or on the subway? That doesn’t cost a cent. Here are a few ways to stretch your dollars further in one of the world’s most expensive cities.

Give your wallet a break with these free things to do in New York City .

Daily costs

• Shared hostel dorm room: from $50
• Basic hotel room for two: from $200
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from $200
• Subway and bus ticket: $2.90
• Coffee from a street cart: $1.50
• Slice of cheese pizza: $3
• Restaurant dinner for two: from $80
• Beer/pint at the bar: $8 to $10

Look for lodging outside of Manhattan

Similar properties have sprouted across the East River, too. You’ll get slightly better rates than in Manhattan at hotels such as TownePlace Suites by Marriott and the Nesva in Long Island City, Queens – a neighborhood only minutes from Manhattan by subway. The nearby Local Hostel offers even better budget options.

Choose your airport wisely

New York JFK and Newark Liberty airports both have train connections to Manhattan – though each requires the purchase of a separate ticket to get from the terminal to a connecting subway line. LaGuardia, on the other hand, requires just a single $2.90 tap. The free Q70 bus (labeled the “LaGuardia Link”) takes about 10 minutes to connect from the airport terminals, via dedicated highway lanes, to the Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Ave subway station. From here it’s just one fare required on the subway to wherever you go.

Hotels in Koreatown and upper Chelsea offer great value

Simple hotels from international brands have proliferated in recent years to meet ever-growing demand. A cluster of properties in Koreatown, around W 32nd St, and the north end of Chelsea offer especially good value. Rooms at the Hotel at Fifth Avenue usually come in at under $200 per night; options like the Fairfield Inn Suites , DoubleTree by Hilton , Hilton Garden Inn  and others on W 28th and 29th Sts combine great value with a central location.

Take advantage of the free subway-to-bus transfer

If you time it right, you can hop on the subway to run an errand uptown, then take the bus back downtown, for just one fare. A transfer between any subway and bus line is free within two hours of the first MetroCard swipe or credit-card tap, providing a two-for-one deal – if you move fast. Consider this money-saving tactic if you have a last-minute gift to buy before you depart, or need to check the availability of rush tickets at a Lincoln Center box office.

Don’t pay full price for a Broadway show

With the exception of red-hot hits, just about every show on Broadway has seats for below face value. If you’re picking shows in advance of your trip, look for discount codes to use at the box office or online at sites like BroadwayBox.com or Playbill . If you're flexible with what shows you'd like to see, you can score seats through Broadway Roulette for $49-59 – just be sure to reserve your date in advance.

If you’re in a more spur-of-the-moment mood, the TKTS booths in Times Square and Lincoln Center are a one-stop shop for same-day tickets at reduced prices. January and February offer the best discounts, as shows hustle to stay open between the holiday rush and the Tony Awards in late spring.

Research rush tickets

Many Broadway shows offer same-day rush tickets that cost well below even the lowest presale discount; Playbill.com is a reliable source for the latest policies , which vary by production. Hear thrilling music for just $22 with the New York Philharmonic’s same-day rush seats , offered for select concerts. The Brooklyn Academy of Music sells rush tickets to students, seniors and veterans. And perhaps the best offering in town is at the city’s grandest venue – the Metropolitan Opera. Pre-register online, then log on at 12 sharp each day to score orchestra seats to that day’s performance for just $25 each . Now, that’s something to sing about.

Plan ahead and visit museums for less

Admission fees to New York’s stupendous museums – all private institutions – have increased over the years, with $30 for an adult ticket becoming the new normal. Yet the major players all offer times when visitors can pay what they wish, or nothing at all.

• The Guggenheim has weekly pay-what-you-wish hours on Mondays and Saturdays from 4pm to 5:30pm. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
• Friday evenings are the slot for free admission to the Whitney Museum of American Art , between 5pm and 10pm. Although admission is free, you need to book a ticket in advance.
• The National September 11 Memorial Museum is free to enter every Monday between 5:30pm and 7pm. Log on at 7am sharp on the Monday that suits you to claim your free ticket.

Plan the ultimate museum tour of NYC.

Consider a multiple-attraction pass

Visitors looking to see marquee attractions have several pass options that bundle admission to shave costs. The best value depends on how much you want to pack in, and for how long.

The best-known option, CityPass , will get you discounted admission to up to 10 famous attractions, from the Empire State Building and the Circle Line to the American Museum of Natural History . Choose any three with the C3 pass, or do the full circuit with the “C All” option.

Competitors like Go City’s New York Pass and the New York Sightseeing Pass include even more options for the truly ambitious. Start by mapping out which sights you can’t miss, then pick the best option for you.

Buy a Citi Bike day pass to cover some ground

The minute you set out in New York, you’ll see blue Citi Bikes everywhere you look. New York’s wildly successful bike-sharing program offers the best deal for full-time residents via annual memberships – yet visitors can cover a lot of ground for less with a $19 day pass. Plan an ambitious day of exploring Central Park , the Hudson River shoreline and even neighborhoods in Queens and Brooklyn by mapping out 30-minute trips between them all – and consider that the day pass is far cheaper than even a single taxi ride between these far-flung pleasures. Download the app for seamless access as you bop around town.

Grab a tasty meal for less at a food truck

Some of the city’s tastiest dishes can be had curbside. Despite ongoing issues with permitting and conflict with brick-and-mortar establishments, the city’s food truck scene is booming – and these mobile kitchens offer the best flavor-to-price ratio around.

Head to Brooklyn for divine Mexican bites at Tacos El Bronco. Greek fare doesn’t get tastier than from King Souvlaki ’s trucks, and it’s hard to resist waffles heaving with sweet toppings from Wafels & Dinges . These are but three of the limitless options – the bottom line is that if you see a queue in front of a truck, join it.

Get fine dining for less during happy hour

Eating out is a hallowed New York City tradition – and these days, an increasingly expensive one. But if you do your homework on happy hours around town, you can sample the city’s fabulous restaurant offerings for much less than a full dinner out. For example,  Mermaid Oyster Bar in Greenwich Village  offers delicious seafood in a stylish dining room and the oysters are $2 each between 4pm and 5:30pm. Uptown, Vinatería offers a range of wines and cocktails for $15 and under, plus a delicious sampling of its Spanish-Italian menu.

Save on major baseball games

New York has two Major League Baseball teams and spending an afternoon at the ballpark is a great way to get a taste of the city’s sporting culture. Ticket pricing is dynamic for the Yankees and the Mets, which means buying early will save you money on games. Daytime games are always less than evening ones (you’re on vacation, after all), while a varying number of $10 Grandstand seats are offered for every home game at Yankee Stadium . If you’re really keen to watch a Mets game batter by batter, buy cheap Promenade seats at Citi Field – then head to a “standing room only” lookout for excellent views of the field.

Should you go to a Mets or a Yankees game? Two local experts weigh in .

Embrace urban greenery in the city's parks

You could plan a week-long itinerary just exploring New York’s superb parks and still only scratch the surface. These free-to-visit marvels offer up superb views, bucolic landscapes and a true taste of city living. Pack a picnic and lie out in the sun at Sheep Meadow at Central Park. Hop the A train for a beach day to remember in the Rockaways. Go bird-watching at Inwood Hill Park or in wild Forest Park in Queens. Then treat yourself to a nice dinner out as a reward for a wonderfully frugal – and just plain wonderful – excursion.

Which park is more your vibe? These are NYC's best .

Avoid chain drugstores and restock at dollar stores instead

Chain drugstores like Duane Reade, CVS and Rite Aid are everywhere in New York – and though they stock an astonishing amount of merchandise suited to city living (or touring), they’re notoriously pricey. If you happen to need toiletries, office supplies, cleaning products or even staple groceries during your visit, the savings will add up fast at ultra-discount stores like Lot-Less or Jacks.

Keep planning your trip to NYC:

Find out which  NYC neighborhood  fits your vibe Find the  best time of year to visit Getting around NYC is fairly straightforward,  find out how in our full transportation guide Even better, read on for top tips to  see New York on two wheels

This article was first published September 2023 and updated March 2024

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Strategies for Visiting New York City on a Budget

New York City is expensive. But strategies for visiting New York City on a budget can save you quite a bit of money on lodging, dining, transportation, and attractions. 

Our money-saving strategies start with your transportation to New York City and take you through a stay full of touring and entertainment.  

Getting To NYC

New York has several airports to choose from and budget airlines  take advantage of having this choice. This makes  shopping for a low airfare a bit easier. Check all of the possibilities before you book a flight. Sometimes booking directly with the airline is the cheapest way to go.

And be prepared. Things included in a more traditional airfare such as meals, movies, or even a printed boarding pass often come at an additional fee on a budget carrier.

With all that traffic, there is also a downside. Delays are common at most airports in the New York City area, and you might find connections tough to catch. Building in plenty of time for connections and arrival home is a smart idea.

Finding a Room

Thousands of visitors come to New York expecting to pay $350 or more for a hotel room. They might be willing to pay that median price, but they want good value for the money.

Unfortunately, many times that ordinary price brings an ordinary room. For years, finding a budget New York hotel room meant risking cleanliness, safety, or a very long train ride. Nowadays, business and leisure travelers expect clean, safe accommodations in the heart of the city.

There are strategies for finding budget, middle, and full-service rooms.

For shoestring budgets, scan the  Ny.com  list of budget offerings. They also suggest Airbnb and VBRO , both sites where individuals host guests in rooms, apartments, and homes on a by-the-night and short-term basis. You can always watch for a Groupon money-savings coupon for NYC digs. 

Apple Core Hotels  offers five centrally-located, mid-range Manhattan properties beginning at about half the going Manhattan rates. Children under 13 stay free with their parents. 

For upscale properties, visit the hotel website and look for seasonal package deals. Websites such as Tripadvisor will pull up the best room rates for you.

Finally, if you're willing to bid on a room, there are sometimes  Priceline bargains  to be found.

Getting Around

It is generally  not  a good idea for visitors to drive in Manhattan. New Yorkers often don't even own a car.

Subway and Buses

New York, like other great world cities, has built a subway system over the years that will take you from place to place in the city. The network of routes and stations is so extensive, it's likely a stop exists not far from where you want to go.

Consult an  MTA map  and make note of which stations are closest to your hotel and the places you'll visit. Don't be intimidated by all the detail. It's really fairly easy to decipher after a moment or two. If you'll take three or more rides in a day, it's a good idea to investigate MTA's  passes .

For longer trips, outside the city, consider railroads. The  Long Island Rail Road  offers reasonable fares to far-flung places like the Hamptons and Montauk. Try to travel off-peak (any time other than 6-10 AM or 4-8 PM), when fares are one-third cheaper. Purchasing online or from machines prior to boarding is cheaper than paying the conductor for a ticket.

If you choose one of the city's iconic yellow cabs, expect to pay for the privilege of getting in, and know that charges accrue for each fifth of a mile traveled. You also pay for every idle minute in traffic, and a surcharge at night. Conventional tips are in the 15 percent range.

Ride-Hailing

Like most cities, New York City has ride-hailing services although the city has started to regulate these businesses. 

One of the great New York experiences is riding the world-famous  Staten Island Ferry . A round trip is free. 

Ferries also run to a variety of other locations. Check the  NYDOT  website for schedules and prices.​

Enjoying Free Things to Do

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

New York can be an expensive city, with pricey admission fees and tours that will challenge your travel budget. Yet, there are free opportunities for sight-seeing and visiting museums and attractions. Some of the best New York experiences won't cost you a dime.

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is always fun to do in mild weather. And when it's chilly head to a museum on a free museum day.

Central Park is full of gardens to wander. Buy lunch-makings at a New York deli and picnic on the lawn in the park. 

Anyone visiting New York City will need to bring walking shoes. Walking the neighborhoods, along the rivers and from building to building downtown can be hard on the feet, but cost nothing.

It's possible to tour New York and eat very expensive food during your entire visit if you stick to the tourist haunts. But most of us want to experience the destination we've spent time and money to visit, and that includes sampling the traditional foods. It can be done with some careful planning. 

If you're a vegetarian (or if you enjoy a good meatless meal sometimes), check out  Happy Cow's Vegetarian Guide , an excellent compendium of places and prices that will suit most tight budgets.

ChowHound.com  provides links to restaurants in a fairly wide area of New York and New Jersey. A message board shows diner impressions of various establishments.

Groupon money-savings coupons can be found for a range of restaurants. Another way to save money is to seek out restaurants in the neighborhoods of the city like Chinatown and Little Italy, the most well-known. 

New Yorkers are fans of take-out food and that's an inexpensive way to get some excellent food without the high cost of restaurant service. Grand Central Station has a market full of mouth-watering fresh foods that you can take out. Gourmet products found there include 160 types of seafood, 400 types of cheese and meats, and various breads baked on the premises. Grand Central Station also has a food concourse where you'll find everything from burgers to steaks to desserts.

Then, of course, there is the  food cart scene with everything from traditional hot dogs to grab-and-go Jamaican dinners.

Sight-Seeing and Entertainment

Just when most visitors recover from hotel room sticker shock, they confront the cost of sightseeing in New York. It can be daunting, but there are ways to skip the ticket lines and save some money on the key attractions.

The bright lights of network television and Broadway call many visitors, and there are ways to save money on those experiences, too.

The best way to find deeply discounted tickets is to wait in line, on the day of the show, at one of the TKTS Discount Booths . There are several locations but you'll find one under the red steps in Duffy Square (47th Street and Broadway) that is close to the theaters.

It's important to spend time outside theaters and studios during your visit, so consider a free walking tour that will keep you entertained and informed.

The New York CityPASS offers free admission to more than 100 of the city's most popular attractions for two- to 10-days, making it the most straightforward of the New York City admission passes. If you're planning to go to four or more of the included attractions (like the Empire State Building or the 9/11 Memorial Museum), you'll find that the pass offers value and convenience.

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New York City Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

Famous for….well, everything, New York City is the beating heart of the world — which is why I call it home. Every culture, language, and food is represented here. You could spend a lifetime exploring the city and never really see it all.

Unsurprisingly, there is a never-ending list of things to do here. No amount of time you spend in NYC will be enough so don’t worry about running out of things to do. Whatever you like, you can find it in NYC. There’s everything here and I don’t have to really “sell” the destination to you. It’s NYC! You’re already in love.

As a budget traveler, visiting NYC can be tough, especially when you don’t know the hidden gems that make living here affordable. There are plenty of things to do that won’t cost you an arm and a leg — if you know where to look!

This travel guide to NYC can help you make the most of your visit without breaking the bank!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on New York City

Top 5 Things to See and Do in New York City

1. Meander through Central Park

It’s free, there are lots of little paths to walk, and, since it spans over 40 blocks, it’s easy to spend hours upon hours wandering around or having a picnic. During the summer months, there are often free concerts and theater productions here too. From the spring to the fall, there are free guided walks on Saturdays as well. Personally, I’m a big fan of laying out in Sheep’s Meadow on a hot, sunny day with a book, some food, and a bottle of wine. If you want to take a guided tour around the park to learn more about the statues and sculptures, ponds, parks, and famous filming sites, take a guided tour with Get Your Guide ($26 USD). It will really give you a good understanding of the park.

2. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

On September 11th, 2001, almost 3,000 people were killed in a series of terrorist attacks in NYC and elsewhere. Visit this somber memorial and take in the view from the Freedom Tower. On the elevator up, you can see pictures of the historical development of the city and how it’s changed over the years. To get a deeper understanding of 9/11 and the events that unfolded, visit the museum. It’s home to moving exhibits that illuminate the scope and significance of the tragedy. The memorial is free to visit; museum entry is $26 USD (free entry Mondays from 3:30pm-5pm but tickets must be booked online). Get tickets beforehand so you can skip the line and save time!

3. Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is one of the foremost collections of fine art in the world. If you only see one museum in New York, make it this one. It has a wide array of art, artifacts, photographs, and other exhibits. I like its expansive Impressionist and Greek exhibits. It’s chaotic and filled with people, especially on the weekend, but since it is so big, you can usually find some quiet spots away from the crowds. Budget at least a half-day here as a few hours won’t do this place justice. Admission is $25 USD and you can buy tickets in advance.

4. See the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty is a massive Neoclassical statue gifted to the USA from France. It was dedicated in 1886 and stands 305-feet tall (95 meters). It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi though its metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame). It’s spectacular to see up close and is as big as you imagine, but the real highlight of this combo is Ellis Island. Here, you can learn about the immigrant experience and get a sense of the people who helped build NYC (you’ll even find my family’s name inscribed on the wall). There’s such a great sense of history there that you can’t help but be impressed. Admission is $24 USD.

Here’s an overview of what the tours are like .

5. Walk the High Line

Other things to see and do in new york city, 1. take a walking tour.

A great way to orient yourself to the city is with a walking tour. You’ll learn some history, see the main sights, and explore all the city’s nooks and crannies. I think free walking tours are a wonderful activity in any city (I always take them when I arrive somewhere new). If you’re on a budget, I recommend Free Tours by Foot. For paid tours, go with Take Walks . They have specific tours in the city that focus on art, food, and history, and they are pretty affordable too. (I wrote a whole blog post about New York City walking tours that you can check out here. )

2. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

That two-hour-long line to see the Statue of Liberty not appealing? Walk a few blocks to the Staten Island ferry. This free ferry takes you across the harbor and offers a nice view of both the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline. You won’t get to stop at Ellis Island but you’ll get a nice (and free) view. The ride takes about 20 minutes each way.

3. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to get a picturesque view of the New York skyline and harbor. It’s a long walk, but good food and drinks await you on the other side. Stopping to take in the view and meandering along the way makes the walk about 40 minutes. I enjoy doing this walk at night when downtown Manhattan is all lit up. Otherwise, come early to beat the crowds. It’s a super popular spot for taking photos so be sure to bring a camera (or you can hire a NYC photographer if you really want to snag some impressive pics).

If you want a more nuanced experience, take a guided tour across the bridge . Not only will you learn some fascinating history but your guide can show you all the best spots to take photos.

4. Museum hop

While the MET is in a category of its own, New York City has dozens of museums worth visiting. The Natural History Museum, the MoMA, and Guggenheim are just three of the big ones. There are a handful of museums on the museum mile near Central Park that would take days to really explore. Pick the ones you want to see the most and visit those unless you have weeks in New York to see them all. Admission varies, but expect to spend around $25 USD per person per museum.

5. Visit Radio City Music Hall

Is there a more American theater than Radio City Music Hall? This timeless testament to entertainment has captivated visitors since the 1930s (at the time, it was the largest auditorium in the world). It’s the home of the precision dance company The Rockettes, who have been performing here since 1932. It’s also been the venue for all kinds of award shows, including the Tonys and the Grammys.

6. Take in the theater

You can’t come to NYC and not see a Broadway show. There are tons of amazing shows here from grand musicals to traditional Shakespeare to offbeat shows. There’s nothing better than witnessing NYC theater, and it’s such an integral part of life here you should check it out. Current highlights include Wicked, The Book of Mormon, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, The Lion King, and more. Visit the TKTS booth in Times Square to get half-price tickets. To see what shows are playing during your visit, check out broadway.com.

7. Wander Times Square

No matter when you go to Times Square, it will be packed with people (usually other tourists). There are pedestrian areas where you can sit and hang out and tons of (overpriced) restaurants and stores. If you aren’t shopping or eating or seeing a show, there isn’t much to do in the area (and no New Yorker hangs out there), but it’s still a fabulous place to people-watch for a few minutes from the top of the red steps of the TKTS kiosk. Try to come at night when it’s all lit up. That’s when it looks the best!

8. Experience the Prohibition Bars

I love the 1920s. One of the reasons I love NYC so much is because there are tons of other people here who love the Jazz Age. There are lots of Prohibition-style bars serving classic drinks and hosting live jazz and swing music. While the fancy cocktails they serve may not be cheap ($15–20 USD), I’m hooked on the atmosphere. Stepping into these bars with the music playing, people dancing, and everyone dressed the part transports me to an era when things were classy, carefree, and fun. Some of my favorites are The Back Room, Apotheke, The Dead Rabbit, and Bathtub Gin.

9. Visit the Lower East Side Tenement Museum

This museum highlights how immigrants from around the world lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s as they tried to make it in America. It’s a good follow-up to what you see on Ellis Island. You can only visit this museum via guided tours, and they need to be booked in advance. I like that live actors are used to portray and share the stories of newly arrived immigrants as it makes the experience much more memorable. Admission is $30 USD.

10. Visit Trinity Church

Built in 1698, the original Trinity Church was a small parish church constructed by the Church of England. When the British seized New York after George Washington’s retreat, it was used as a British base of operations. After the war, George Washington and Alexander Hamilton regularly worshipped here. The graveyard dates back to the 1700s and holds many a famous Americans, including Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth, Francis Lewis (signatory on the Declaration of Independence), John Alsop (Continental Congress delegate), Albert Gallatin (founder of NYU), and Horatio Gates (Continental Army general).

11. Head to Top of the Rock

This area is always filled with hustle and bustle. Wander around Rockefeller Center to see where they film The Today Show , shop, snack, and then take the elevator to the “Top of the Rock” for a bird’s-eye view of the city (I personally think the view is better than the Empire State Building since you get the Empire State Building in your pictures). Tickets cost $40 USD.

12. Just wander

Walk from the east side to the west side and marvel at the beautiful New York City architecture such as Grand Central Station, Union Square, the New York Times building, the Chrysler Building, the Flat Iron building, and more. There are so many historic buildings in New York City that just wandering around and looking at them is a fun afternoon activity for every budget traveler.

13. Relax in Battery Park

Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, this park is where the Dutch built Fort Amsterdam in 1625 to defend their settlement. The British took the area over in 1664 and eventually renamed it Fort George. While the fort was mostly destroyed during the Revolution, the battery was expanded after the war’s end. Today, there are over 20 monuments and plaques in the park, covering everything from the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 to immigration and much more. You can wander around the fort and then stroll through the surrounding park and take in the beautiful waterfront views of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.

14. Visit Wall Street

Take a photo with the famous charging bull statue (which was created in 1989) and then walk to Wall Street and see where all those bankers destroyed the economy. There’s heavy security in the area, but you can sit and watch people whiz in and out of buildings on their way to cause some other financial disaster. Guided tours around Wall St with Get Your Guide cost $35 USD and cover the highs and lows of the (in)famous finance hub, highlighting the lives of famous elites from John D. Rockefeller to Warren Buffet. I found the tour really interesting!

14. See Federal Hall

One of the most overlooked museums in the city sits across the street from the NY Stock Exchange (NYSE). Federal Hall, built in 1700, is where George Washington took his oath of office (you can see the Bible he was sworn in on). It was the site of the US Customs House in the late 1700s and the first capitol building of the US. Though the original facade was rebuilt, it’s one of my favorite attractions in the area. I especially love the old vaults. I highly recommend you visit. Admission is free.

16. See Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is the city’s historic train station. It was going to be torn down in 1975 but was saved by Jacqueline Kennedy, who raised money for its preservation. I love coming to the main concourse and looking up at the “stars” in the ceiling as everyone races to and fro. There’s also an amazing eatery in the basement called the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant. And for fancy (and expensive) cocktails, visit The Campbell and step back into the 1920s (dress code enforced). It was once the office of John W. Campbell, a member of the New York Central Railroad’s board of directors and finance tycoon from the 1920s.

17. Visit The Cloisters

Few people make it up to the Cloisters (it’s up near 204th Street), a branch of the Met devoted to medieval Europe. It took me years to finally see it, and I kicked myself for waiting so long. It was built with Rockefeller money from parts of five European abbeys between 1934 and 1939. (They even stipulated that the land across the river would forever remain undeveloped so the view would be unspoiled!). The building and its stunning cloistered garden are very, very peaceful, and beautiful. It’s one of the best things to do in the city. There are free tours each day that explain the history of the museum and the paintings and exhibits. Admission is $25 USD (which includes same-day entrance to the Metropolitan Museum of Art).

18. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Head over to the MoMA for lots of beautiful (and weird) modern art and some vivid impressionist art. Personally, I dislike modern art. I just don’t “get” it. How is a shovel on a wall art? While I’m not a fan, this museum does have Van Gogh’s Starry Night as well as other post-impressionist art, so I can’t hate it completely. If you love modern and contemporary art, this (I’m told) is one of the best in the world. Admission is $25 USD. The MoMA’s Sculpture Garden is free of charge to the public daily from 9:30am–10:15am.

19. Hang out in Prospect Park

Get out of Manhattan and explore Brooklyn’s version of Central Park, which spans almost 600 acres. While you’re here, don’t miss the nearby Brooklyn Museum. Spend the afternoon discovering its vast collection of both historical and contemporary art and artifacts (there are over 1.5 million items in its collection). It has art exhibitions highlighting ancient Egypt, Medieval Europe, colonial USA, and more. Tickets are $16 USD.

20. Visit the Bronx Zoo

Head north for a look at one of the oldest and biggest zoos in the United States. Opened in 1899, the zoo spans almost 300 acres and sees over 2 million visitors each year. Home to over 650 different species, it’s a great place to visit with kids. Gorillas, birds of prey, bison — there is a huge assortment of animals here and you’ll definitely learn a lot during your visit! Admission is $41.95 USD ($26.95 if you just want access without admission to any rides or extra attractions). Tickets are $17.95 USD on Wednesdays.

21. See a Yankees/Mets/Rangers/Knicks game

Like sports? NYC has some world-class sports teams. I’m not a big sports fan (the Yankees play soccer, right?), but games are fun when you have friends to share the experience with. If you have a chance and the desire, don’t miss a sporting event, because New Yorkers are serious about their local teams!

22. Attend a taping

TV shows like Saturday Night Live , The View , The Late Show with Stephen Colbert , The Daily Show , Last Week Tonight , Late Night with Seth Meyers , and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon offer free tickets to their tapings (although they must be reserved well in advance). See each show’s website for details and to make reservations.

( Hey there! Wait one second! Did you know I also wrote an entire guidebook to New York City filled with – not only even more detailed information on the things included on this page but also itineraries, practical information (i.e. hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, prices, etc.), cultural insights, and so much more? It has everything you want in a guidebook – but with a focus on budget and cultural travel! If you want to go into more depth and have something to take on your trip, click here for more about the book! )

For more information on other cities in the United States, check out these guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• San Francisco Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

New York City Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at $140 USD per night. They don’t fluctuate much between off-season and peak season either. Expect basic amenities like TV, AC, and coffee/tea makers. For a three-star hotel without breakfast included, prices start around $200 USD per night. They’re double that if you want a property with breakfast or a pool.

There are lots of Airbnb options in New York City. Private rooms start at $65 USD per night but average closer to $120-150 USD. For an entire home/apartment, prices start at $120 USD but average closer to $330 USD. Make sure to book early if you want to find the best deal.

Food – New York has every kind of cuisine you can think of — and at every price range too. Pizza slices can be found for as little as a dollar, though typically they cost about $3 USD. A bagel with cream cheese or a hot dog is usually around $3-5 USD. There are plenty of street vendors with meals between $5-10 USD. Sandwich shops, kebabs, salad shops, and cafe meals generally are less than $10 USD.

You can eat a mid-range restaurant for $15-25 USD per main course. Appetizers can range from $8-15 USD. Dinner for two with drinks usually averages around $100 USD.

Prices just go straight up from there as NYC has some really fancy and expensive restaurants. I mean, you can pay upwards of $350 USD for a prix-fixe dinner! But you can find main courses at many high-end restaurants for about $50 USD each, or $125 USD for a few courses and drinks.

A latte/cappuccino is $5 USD while bottled water is $2 USD. For drinks, you’ll find beer for around $8 USD, wine between $12-15 USD, and cocktails for between $15-20 USD. (For tips on how to get cheaper drinks, see the money saving section below.)

If you cook your own food, expect to pay between $65-80 USD per week for groceries that includes basic staples like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat. Go to Fairway for inexpensive groceries.

Backpacking New York City Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking New York City, expect to spend around $80 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, a few subway rides, cooking your own meals, and free attractions like the High Line and the Staten Island Ferry. If you plan on drinking, add $10-20 USD more per day.

A mid-range budget of about $195 USD covers staying in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eating cheap street food for most meals, enjoying a couple of cheap drinks, taking the occasional taxi, and doing more paid activities (like museum visits or paid walking tours).

On a “luxury” budget of $395 USD or more per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out at casual sit-down restaurants, go out for drinks, take more taxis, and do as many paid tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

New York City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

New York City can easily drain your wallet. It is expensive and your money really, really quickly if you aren’t careful. Prices for everything have dramatically increased post-COVID. Luckily, this is the city of starving artists so there are always deals and ways to save.here are some ways to save money in New York City:

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to the city. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Get a MetroCard – You’ll be taking the subway a lot and fares can add up. Get one of the Unlimited MetroCards and save yourself a bundle during your trip. 7-day unlimited cards are $33 USD.
• Get cheap theater tickets – Broadway tickets can easily run hundreds of dollars, especially for new and popular shows. The TKTS stand in Times Square offers 40-50% off select shows. You need to arrive at the counter the same day to see what they have but it’s usually a wide selection. Be prepared to wait in line for about an hour. TKTS also has offices at the South Street Seaport and in Brooklyn.
• Visit the museums for free – NYC is full of some of the best museums in the world. In addition to the MoMA, many offer free entry on certain days of the week: the Whitney Museum of American Art is pay-what-you-wish on Thursday afternoons, the Solomon R. Guggenheim has pay-what-you-wish between 4-6pm on Saturdays, the Cooper-Hewitt National Museum of Design has a pay-what-you-wish policy on Saturday nights. 
• Visit the tourism website – New York City’s tourism website has a great list of free activities, museums, and shows. Visiting their website can help you figure out what is free in the city. While NYC is expensive, there’s always free things going on. The tourism board’s website is a great place to find those things.
• Eat on the cheap – Between the food carts, dollar slice shops, kebab places, and cheap eateries (Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai are some of the cheapest places in the city) you can eat really cheap in NYC. Some of my favorite places to eat cheap are The Dead Rabbit (oyster happy hours), Percy’s Pizza, Noodle Q (Chinese food with big portions), and Gray’s Papaya (cheap hotdogs).
• Hit the happy hours – Happy hour is the best time to get discounted food and drinks in the city. We NYers love happy hour because it’s one of the best ways for us to save money while still going out. Drinks will be about 50% of what you normally find. I love the happy hour at The Gray Mare. For current best happy hours, try Eater. They have a good list!
• Consider getting the New York Pass – This sightseeing pass allows you free entry to over 115 attractions. If you plan on seeing a ton of attractions, this can save you money. A one-day pass is $134 USD per person while the two-day pass is $179 USD.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in big cities like NYC. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car, and adjust your budget accordingly.
• Hit the oyster happy hours – Love oysters? Eat them during the happy hours that happen all over the city where they cost around $1.50-2 USD.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in NYC and, with few hostels, there aren’t many options for a budget traveler. Use a hospitality website like Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. There is a huge network in the city with tons and tons of hosts. To increase the chance of success, request as far in advance as possible!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in New York City

Accommodation is very expensive in New York, and there aren’t a ton of hostels in the city. If you stay outside Manhattan or come during off-season, accommodation costs drop significantly. Here are some places to stay in NYC:

• HI New York City Hostel
• Heritage Hotel NYC
• The Local NYC
• Pod Brooklyn
• Chelsea International Hostel
• The Marlton

For more hostel suggestions, check out my complete list of the best hostels in New York City.

How to Get Around New York City

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the subway, the fare is $2.75 USD, but an express ride is $6.75 USD (you can’t use a regular Unlimited Ride MetroCard for express rides).

The Staten Island Ferry is a staple of morning commuters. It operates 24/7 and is free. The NYC Ferry Service is also a reliable way to commute and connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx along the East River. The ferries make many stops along the East River and are the same price as the subway.

Taxis – Taxis are definitely not the cheapest option for getting around New York City. The minimum fare starts at $3.90 USD and goes up another $3 USD per mile. Skip them if you can. However, during peak times, they are cheaper than Uber since they have set fares.

Ridesharing – Uber, Lyft, and Via are way cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. The shared/pool option (where you share a ride with other people) offers even better savings.

Bike rental – You can bike just about anywhere in New York City, especially if you want to explore big parks like Central and Prospect. Citi Bike is a bike-sharing system, starting from $3.50 USD per 30-minute ride, or $15 USD for 24 hours. There are about 10,000 bikes all over the city, so one is always within reach!

When to Go to New York City

Anytime is the best time to visit New York! Each season offers visitors plenty of reasons to visit. Early fall offers crisp breezes, bright sun, and comfortable temperatures while late fall and winter make merry with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and holiday decorations.

Deep winter – January and February – is cold, with temperatures ranging between 18-23°F (-7 to -5°C). But coming in winter means better hotel rates, ice skating, and hopping around cozy cafes and bookstores.

Spring is glorious and New Yorkers celebrate the thaw by taking to the streets, shopping at outdoor markets, frolicking in Central Park, and dining outside. Summer is hot, with average daily temperatures around 77-86°F (25-30°C).

Personally, I think the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) offer the best experience: there are fewer crowds and the weather is more bearable, averaging around 56-63°F (13-17°C) in the spring and 53-78°F (11-25°C) in September and October. Walking around snapping photos is a great way to see the city, but doing so when it’s sweltering can be challenging. If you love the heat, however, then summer is the time to visit!

How to Stay Safe in New York City

New York City is a safe place to backpack and travel. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas. Petty crime, like theft, around popular tourist landmarks and on the subway will be your biggest concern. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

While post-COVID, crime went up for a bit, NYC is “back” as they say and there are very rarely instances of violence or crime in any place you’d want to go as a visitor. In Manhattan, most of Brooklyn, and Queens, the city is really safe and you’re unlikely to encounter any real problems. In all my years living in the city, I don’t know anyone that has had something really bad happen to them.

As a general rule, always watch people pour your drinks, keep an eye out for pickpockets, don’t flash your valuables when out and about, and stay vigilant if you’re using the subway late at night.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply. For specific safety tips, consult one of the many solo female travel articles on the web.

Beware of anything that seems too good to be true in Times Square — it probably is. Try not to buy any tickets, massages, facials, or experiences from hawkers in the area. They prey on tourists here. If you do, you risk getting your credit card charged multiple times, getting less than you paid for, or getting ripped off altogether. Also, if you want to take a photo with the life-sized costumed characters in Times Square, they will demand money from you.

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

New York City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to New York City!

While I have a lot of free tips on New York City, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorites restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of New York City that I got from living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go.

New York City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 24 Hours in Raleigh, North Carolina

The 6 Best Hotels in Austin

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

How to Explore New York on a Budget

NYC is a world-class destination, so is it possible to experience New York on a budget? Absolutely! And we’re giving you over 50 tips to help you do it.

New York City is top-tier in every facet! The restaurants are world-class. The art scene is second only to Paris … maybe. It’s a close call! It’s the center of world fashion and finance, and one of the most visited cities in the world. There is no way you can cover all that NYC has to offer, even if you spent your whole life trying. With all that said, it’s understandable why NYC isn’t typically a budget-friendly destination. But, can you visit New York on a budget? Yes, of course!

We’re not going to tell you that you can visit the “City That Never Sleeps” for the same price as a Florida beach vacation or a trip to Branson, Missouri. It is not going to be your cheapest road trip ever, but you can make it manageable. In this guide, we are going to cover the best free (or cheap) things to do in the city, affordable food options, budget accommodation areas, and how to get around the city for cheap, plus some general money-saving tactics. We are confident you can fully enjoy a trip to the “Big Apple” without breaking the bank by following some of these budget New York City travel tips!

Need an inexpensive way to tour the best attractions?

We know what it’s like to travel on a budget, so we’ve created over 400 city tours that won’t break the bank! Each of our sightseeing scavenger hunt experiences can be done for about the cost of a movie ticket! Enjoy photo and trivia challenges as you make your way from one stop to the next. You’ll learn a lot about the local area and have a terrific time doing it!

Iconic New York Sights On a Budget

NYC is hard for a budget traveler, especially if it is your first time. You really want to see all the big-ticket items, and there are some that you really should see! We recommend that you budget for a hand full of the top attractions and intermingle them with some of the free sights on the list. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed in any of these choices, and one of the freebies may end up being your favorite New York activity. Another good suggestion is not to splurge on your accommodation (more on that later) and your food, as NYC has excellent cheap eats.

Before we get started, we need a COVID preamble. Due to the dense population and the devastating hit that NYC took early on in the pandemic, it has some of the strictest COVID-19 rules and regulations in the country. The rules change pretty quickly, so check every website to see if you need a mask. Make sure you don’t need to be vaccinated to enter and make sure that each activity is open and running on schedule. Many museums are still running at lower capacity, and you may need reservations for things that you would not have needed in the past. Check and double-check, and when you can, book your spot early.

1. Stroll through Central Park.

Central Park is epic. It is one of the largest parks in the world and is larger than the nations of Monaco and Vatican City! It’s been the host of countless concerts and has been featured in hundreds of films. Central Park is an outdoor museum, a retreat from the hectic city, and the backyard of every New Yorker. Because of this local love, there are several free things to do in the park. 

You can take a guided tour of the cultural sites. There are free walking tours during the warm months on Saturdays at 11. In the summer, you can sign up for free swimming lessons. There are also frequent free concerts and theatre productions in the warm months. Ice-skating and sledding are popular in the winter. There are yoga and fitness classes you can join, as well as popular sports games that are free or cheap to join. 

Spend some time meandering the small paths or have a picnic by one of the many water features. Go bouldering or bird-watching. Rent a gondola to put around the lake, or rent a bike (which might even allow you to see even more). If you prefer free, just let your feet take you where you want to go in the park.

2. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

There are a few things in NYC that you need to do, even if they cost money. For less than $30, you can visit some of the prime attractions in New York City. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum should give free admission to Americans, but, unfortunately, it doesn’t. Bummer. Anyway, it doesn’t cost too much for you to pay your respects to those who lost their lives, and others who sacrificed theirs trying to save them, on the worst day in the history of the USA. 

If you were alive when the World Trade Center fell, then it is certainly something you have never forgotten. You can probably remember exactly where you were and what you felt. It was a traumatizing day, to say the least, but it produced a comradery that we hadn’t seen in a long time in our nation. Everyday citizens turned into soldiers who stepped up to care for and rescue their neighbors, and the rest of us watched in awe at their bravery, as the Twin Towers crumbled around them.

Today the tallest building in the United States towers over Lower Manhattan. One World Trade Center, previously known as the “Freedom Tower,” stands proudly in the vicinity of the Old Twin Towers, and it’s quite a sight. Learn all you can about 9/11 and those who rose above terror and became superheroes that day. 

3. Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

This is another one that you should just pay for, but don’t worry—we’ll get back to the free stuff soon. The MET is one of the finest art collections in the world. The museum boasts over 2 million pieces of art and artifacts. You can explore an Egyptian tomb, try to make something out of the expansive Impressionist section, and wander naked Greek sculptures until your legs wear out! If you still need some more culture, check out our guide to “ The Best Museums in NYC. “

4. Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty is probably the most recognizable symbol of not only New York City, but the United States in general. She is a symbol of freedom and tolerance and is definitely work a visit. America is a nation of immigrants, and Ellis Island is the place to educate yourself on the massive waves of immigrants that built our country and maybe even find out a bit about your own history. From 1892 to 1954, Ellis Island processed for more than 12 million immigrants!

Right now, for less than $30 you can get your ferry ticket and pass to climb to the top of Liberty’s crown. 

5. Ride the Staten Island Ferry.

If you don’t want to endure the two-hour ferry ride to the step foot on Liberty Island, you can still get an up-close view of Lady Lib from a 20-minute ferry ride. The Staten Island Ferry is a free service provided by the city, so be careful of scammers trying to sell tickets. It runs seven days a week and is 40 minutes round trip.

6. Wander the High Line.

The Highline is an open-air art museum and walking path created from an old train track. It’s on the west side of NYC and is free to visit. It is an extremely popular site, so prepare to share it with lots of other visitors. The High Line is one of New York’s free activities, and you can do your own walking tour daily. Free guided tours are available on certain days of the week (currently Wednesdays and Saturdays) on a first-come-first-served basis. You could easily spend most of your day here perusing the food stalls, admiring public art, and checking out all the overlooks!

7. Cross the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Brooklyn Bridge is pretty iconic in its own right, and it’s free to cross on foot! The bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, crossing over the East River. It was built in 1883 and was the first connection between the two boroughs, which at the time were separate cities. 

The walk provides an excellent view of the Manhattan Skyline. You can see the Statue of Liberty off in the distance, the Empire State Building, and Freedom Tower from the bridge. It’s a great place to take photos of the city and get a little exercise. The crossing will take you about 45 minutes. We suggest you either do it at night or early in the morning to avoid the massive crowds. 

8. Enjoy a Broadway Show.

You must see a broadway show in NYC. It is part of the culture here, and it is a must! Performances range from huge productions to indy, off-beat stuff, and you can score half-price tickets from the TKTS booth in Times Square. 

If seeing a broadway show is a tier-2 attraction for you, you could also enter the Broadway lottery. Anyone can enter online, and if you win, you get super cheap tickets. The only caveat is that you won’t know if you have won until probably the day before the show, and you have to pick up your tickets in person. This works for some people and is too unorganized for others, but if you have a loose itinerary, it might be the best way for you to score great seats at a super low price.

9. See the Brooklyn Museum.

The Brooklyn Museum is awesome. Not only does it have many free days throughout the month, but it’s also free to active military and healthcare workers with ID, and general admission is on a “pay what you wish” system for everyone. The general admission suggestion is $16, making it much cheaper than many other New York Museums.

Currently, you can peruse huge exhibits on the fashion of Christian Dior, the works of Andy Warhol, and incredible selections of ancient Egyptian, Assyrian, and Asian art in the permanent collection. Plus, the museum itself is a beautiful architectural structure to spend some time admiring.

10. Don’t forget the other museums!

As discussed in the intro, New York is world-famous for its art scene. Some of the best museums on earth are in this city, and they deserve your attention. The American Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), and the Guggenheim house permanent collections that rival those of Paris, Florence, and Cairo. Museum Mile has almost a dozen museums that you could spend a week exploring.

Most of the museums have an admission fee of around $25, but you should check each museum’s website that you are interested in and see when they offer free days! Free days are often crowded, but they’re free, so you have to take the bad with the good. We think it’s worth it!

11. Take in Times Square.

Times Square is overkill in every sense of the word. It is packed at all hours of the day and night, every day of the year. It is loud, bright, squished, and kind of smelly. But, it is Times Square, and you have to see it right?

You won’t often see New Yorkers hanging out there. The restaurants and shops are crazy overpriced. You have to go there to get your half-price broadway tickets though, so take a few minutes to people watch and snap a couple of photos to say you were there, and then get the heck out before someone snatches your purse. 

12. Kick it up at Radio City Music Hall.

Home to high-kicking Rockettes, Radio City Music Hall has been entertaining the masses since the 1930s. It has been, and still is home, to some of the greatest shows on earth. Snag a ticket to one of them, or you can take a guided tour.

13. Visit the Lower East Side.

One of our favorite museums in New York is the Lower East Side Tenement Museum . The collection highlights the daily struggles and living situations of immigrants from the 1860s through the 1930s. As you can imagine, it makes for a good pairing with Ellis Island, as you can trace the experience of early Americans from their entrance to settled life. The Tenement is unique because it is a living museum with live actors, and it makes the whole situation really easy to identify with. You can follow the life of a Chinese Immigrant family or a Holocaust refugee. 

The museum is located in two old tenement buildings (hence the name) that were derelict for 50 years until they were repurposed as the museum. It is only available by guided tour, so you need to make a reservation. Tickets are well worth the cost!

14. Explore the Waterfront Barge Museum.

The Waterfront Barge Museum was founded in 1986 and is a must for anyone interested in maritime history. A former dumping area in Red Hook, Brooklyn was transformed into a wonderful space of open waterfront access and a museum within a 100-year-old barge. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Place, and best of all, it is free every Saturday from 1-5 pm. 

15. Tour the Brooklyn Brewery.

This lovely microbrewery offers free tours! Yep … free ! At the present time, the hour-long tours are available Sunday evenings from 1-6 pm, but check the Brooklyn Brewery website for updated info. Learn all about beer history and the science behind brewing, complete with ample tastings. These events are informative, fun, and one of the few chances to have free beer in NYC.

16. Experience a speakeasy.

The 1920s were a weird time in American history. Liquor was outlawed but consumed more than ever, and Jazz was all the rage. It still is in New York City. Several bars in the city host jazz nights with live swing music and dancing. The cocktails certainly aren’t cheap, but you can buy one and just enjoy the incredible atmosphere. Get dressed up in 20s garb (as everyone else will be), and enjoy a carefree night.

The Back Room and The Dead Rabbit are two great spots, amongst the many great bars in NYC !

17. See Trinity Church Wall Street.

Trinity Church was built in 1698 and was just a small guy, sponsored by the Church of England. It was unfortunately burned down during the Great Fire of New York in 1776. The spot is now home to the third Trinity Church, as the second one’s roof collapsed under heavy snow. The current church opened in 1846 and is still going strong. George Washington and the family of Alexander Hamilton worshipped here, and the Hamilton’s are buried in the church North graveyard, along with several other prominent New Yorkers. 

18. Make your way to the Top of the Rock.

Top of the Rock is not cheap, but it has one of the best views in New York City. There are three indoor and outdoor observation decks providing a 360-degree view of NYC. You can snap excellent pics of the skyline and the Empire State Building from here.

At the time of writing, a ticket for the 70-story elevator to the deck is $38 for adults, but we would actually suggest that you get the combination pass. The “ Rock Pass ” is nearly $20 more, but before refusing, note that it gives you access to the Top of the Rock and a guided tour through Rockefeller Center, including the gardens and the Associated Press Building, where the TODAY Show is filmed.

19. Visit Federal Hall.

Federal Hall is the location where George Washington was sworn in as the first President of the United States. The bible used in the ceremony is on display in the collection. Built in 1700, it was also home to the first Congress, Executive Branch offices, and Supreme Court. It later served as the US treasury, as well. It’s a pretty important space, and the collection is now dedicated to the life and memory of our first president and the beginning of the United States government. Best of all, admission is free. 

20. Use your feet!

One of the best things to do in New York City is just to wander around. The city is beautiful with gorgeous green spaces, lots of public art, and wonderful architecture. Stroll through Grand Central Station. Walk around the Chrysler Building and the Flat Iron Building. Take a trip through Union Square or explore the war memorials and plaques of Battery Park or Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. There are years worth of exploring to do by foot in The Big Apple. 

21. Go medieval at the Cloisters.

The Cloisters are a less-visited division of The MET devoted to Medieval Europe. Pieces of five European abbeys were transported to NYC and reconstructed between the years 1934 and 1939. The building and the surrounding gardens are incredibly beautiful and a joy to tour. It’s a much-appreciated, peaceful break from the hustle of most of the city.

We recommend you see the Cloisters on the same day as you visit The MET because your entrance fee covers both places for a day . Once inside, there are free tours available daily!

22. Check out Little Island.

In 2012, Hurricane Sandy hit Pier 54, part of the Hudson River Park, and destroyed the beloved, historic pier. The next year Barry Diller and the Hudson River Park Trust came up with an ingenious space to revitalize the pier and create a work of public art. Little Island was born, and we are so grateful. The island is part park, part art installation, and it is completely free to visit. There are even frequent free concerts in the little amphitheater on the island, along with great food stands, and a waterslide!

23. Experience the urban art scene.

Not only does New York City have some of the best traditional art museums in the world, but it has a healthy street art scene as well. There’s amazing urban art all over the city, but some of our favorites are in Brooklyn.

The Bushwick Collective is an art collective in (you guessed it!) the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn. You can easily spend hours marveling at the talent on these walls. They throw a pretty rocking block party every year too with live music, tons of great food stalls, artisan wares, and a vibrant atmosphere.

For more great New York street art, take our “ Murals in Manhattan ” art walk and check out our guide to “Finding The Best Street Art in NYC.”

24. Be amazed by the New York Public Library!

The main branch of the New York Public Library is a city landmark, hailing from 1911. Free tours of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building and the famous Rose Main Reading Room are available daily (check for COVID-related cancellations). The building is stunning and of the best free structure to tour in NYC.

25. See the gorgeous St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is huge and gorgeous. Built between 1858 and 1878, the Neo-Gothic stunner is the largest of its kind in North America. It takes up a whole city block and features 330-foot spires, the famous stained-glass Rose window, and a super-impressive organ. The church is free to visit and makes for a great budget stop on your NYC itinerary.

New York City Sightseeing On a Budget

26. take advantage of free museum apps..

Many of the museums in NYC have their own apps with free audio tours. It is a great substitute for costly guided tours and can save you big bucks. In addition to checking for free days on your designated museum website, keep an eye out for links to download their apps. 

27. Invest in a New York CityPASS.

If you plan on seeing several major sites while on your trip, then consider the New York CityPASS . The pass can save you up to 40% on tourist sites. The cost is currently $136, but that covers 9 consecutive days and you have one year from the date of purchase to activate the pass. It covers some of NYC’s top attractions, including:

• The Empire State Building Observation Deck
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty
• American Museum of Natural History
• Your choice of The Guggenheim Museum or Top of the Rock
• Your choice of Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum or the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

Visiting each of these sites separately would cost you $100 more than the pass, so it’s a pretty significant savings.

28. Get yourself a New York Pass.

The other major tourist pass for the city is the New York Pass . It is great too, but it works a little differently. The New York Pass is similar in price to the CityPASS, but it covers way more sightseeing destinations— over 100 attractions , to be more specific The drawback is that it’s valid for a shorter period.

The two-day pass is $149 right now, and the price just goes up incrementally, based on the number of days, until you get to 10. Before you make a decision, it might be best to lay out your itinerary for your trip. Figure out which attractions are must-sees for you, and then decide on the appropriate pass.

29. Utilize the free walking tours.

New York City has an incredible amount of free walking tours. Some are led by trained guides. Some are just local volunteers who come out to guide you around their neighborhood. Food tours, cultural tours, architecture, and street art tours are all available via a quick Google search. Take advantage of them. They are a great way to get to know the city!

Eating in New York On a Budget

Oh man, NYC has some incredible eats. You can spend an absolute fortune on sit-down meals in this city. We recommend you book at least one fancy-ish meal to splurge on, but keep them limited because New York has lots of great cheap eats. Remember, street vendors are your friends!

30. Enjoy the $1 Pizza!

New York is famous for its pies, forever at arms with the Chicago Deep Dish in the battle for the best pizza. Keep your eye open for pizza by the slice stands. These guys offer up cheese pizza for about $1 a slice, and 2-topping slices for a couple of bucks. Popular options in Manhattan include Dollar Slice Pizza on Broadway, $1 Pizza Slice on Lexington, and Joey Pepperoni’s Pizza, also on Broadway.

Don’t worry about your figure! You’re going to walk so much on your NYC trip that you can eat pizza every day for lunch, no problem.

31. Pay a visit to the Halal Guys.

The Halal Guys are pretty dang popular. Their selections don’t cost $1, but if you love falafel and gyros, then you might be ecstatic to snag a good-sized portion for under $10.

The platters are hearty, and so are the sandwiches. For most people, it’s enough food for dinner, and they have carts all over the city, including one right outside Radio City Music Hall. 

32. Eat at Joe’s!

Joe’s Pizza is a New York City institution. With locations in Midtown, Williamsburg, and Greenwich Village, plus many more, you can snag slices from almost anywhere in the city. They are very cheap, and the joint has been frequented by pretty much every major celebrity worth their weight. Just check out the picture wall of fame, for proof!

33. Find a taco truck.

Let’s take a moment to honor the amazingness of Los Tacos No. 1. The original and most popular Los Tacos is in Chelsea Market, but you can now find the popular taqueria all over the city. It’s seriously good! It’s one of the best street tacos you can find anywhere, and that is from a street taco connoisseur. 

34. Take advantage of oyster happy hour.

Jeffery’s Grocery and The Dead Rabbit have $1 oysters during happy hours! Places like this are all over the city, so be on the lookout if you love oysters!

35. Go ethnic!

NYC has every international cuisine you can think of, and some of them are dirt cheap! Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, and Indian food are often some of the cheapest meals in the city, and you get huge portions, perfect for sharing with your crew! Noodle Q on Broadway has hand-pulled Chinese noodle dishes, with huge portions, for cheap!

36. Have a hot dog.

Yet another food item that New York and Chicago fight over, the perfect hot dog. We have to say that NYC might take the lead on this one. Cheap hot dogs are found all over the city, but we love Gray’s Papaya in Uptown. 

37. Make your way to Tina’s Place.

Tina’s Place is a good old greasy diner serving up cheap sandwiches and huge breakfast plates. For the best deals, you should go for breakfast before 11 am. The diner is in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn, so hit it up before you head on the street art walk!

38. Bet on a bagel.

Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe is our favorite place to snag a famous New York bagel. It makes for a hearty breakfast if you get the bagel breakfast sandwich, and a classic with a schmear of cream cheese makes for the perfect light lunch. They will only set you back a couple of bucks, and they are incredibly tasty. This shop makes them fresh, on-site, every day, and they are delectable. 

39. Enjoy a free pizza!

Alligator Lounge on Metropolitan Ave. serves up a free personal pizza with every drink you order! We love this bar for its vibrant and fun nightlife with pinball machines and tons of arcade games. It’s a popular place, but they give away free pizza! 

40. Try an old-school diner.

Diners are classic Americana, and they serve us really filling meals at low prices. We love Pearl Diner on Water Street in the Financial District and Westway Diner in Midtown/Hell’s Kitchen. Both have been going strong for well over thirty years and the food is the reason. Westway even has free coffee refills, so if you love black coffee, this is your place to get your fill for cheap!

41. Bring your own drinks.

It sounds a bit weird, but several restaurants in town do not have a liquor license, so they will allow you to bring in your own drinks. Considering that a glass of house wine or a craft beer can easily run you $10 in the city, it can be a real money-saver. Aba, Wondee Siam, Bhatti Indian Grill, and Tartine are just a few of the awesome spots where you can pull this trick.

42. Carry a water bottle.

The tap water in NYC is drinkable, and there are plenty of refilling stations around the city. You are going to be doing a lot of walking and staying hydrated is important. Stopping in and buying drinks all day is a drain on your wallet, so carry your own bottle and save big bucks so you can spend more on hot dogs!

Getting Around New York On a Budget

Should you hail that famous yellow New York City Cab … No, bad! We know, taxis are convenient, but they are the most expensive way to get around the city, so if you want your NYC trip to stay on budget, then you go with public transportation. Here are some options.

43. Use your feet!

New York City is meant to be walked. It is the best and often fastest way to get around, and it is the most rewarding for sightseeing. Plug your destination into Google Maps and get to steppin’.

44. Try Citibike.

Citibike is New York’s bike-share program. There are bikes all over the city, and they are easy to use. Download the app and pay for a single ride, about $3.50, or buy a multi-day pass to cover your whole trip. We love the bike option as it is faster and easier than your feet, but still way cheaper than a taxi or Uber. 

45. Get a MetroCard.

The subway is the most efficient way to get around the city, as you get to avoid that horrendous traffic. Buy an unlimited multi-day pass and get rides for a bit cheaper. The average ride on the subway is $2.75 right now, so it’s thrifty and quick.

The subway system is pretty easy to use, and if you have a prepaid pass, you never have to worry about it. Just swipe and go. The 7-day metro card costs around $33 at the moment, so it pays for itself in about 12 trips. If you’re planning to visit several sights, you’ll definitely take more trips than that!

46. Use rideshares.

Uber and Lyft aren’t the cheapest options in NYC, but they are still better than traditional taxis, and you can pay for everything beforehand in the app. Most travelers are more comfortable with this, as it decreases the amount of hassle.

47. Beware of the airport.

Transportation to and from the airport will always be your most expensive transit, in any city, worldwide. If you have a public transportation option, always take it. Whether you fly into La Guardia, JFK, or Newark, New Jersey, you are a long way from the tourist sights of Manhattan, so that is going to be an expensive car ride. 

If you’re flying into La Guardia, hop on the Q70-SBS bus to Roosevelt Av/74 stop. You can get on the metro here and get to wherever you need to go. You’ll probably be getting on the E-line toward the World Trade Center, but just make sure you map out the route to your hotel before you land. 

From JFK, you’ll have to pick up the JFK AirTrain ticket, which will drop you off at Jamaica Station. Here, you can hop into the metro, grab your 7-day pass, and whichever line heads towards your hotel. 

48. Use the bus.

Another perk of the Metrocard is that it gets you onto the city bus. The price is the same as the subway per ride, and the buses are convenient for places that the metro can’t get you to. We suggest you download a transit app like Citymapper to help you map out the best routes and have updated timetables for all NYC public transit. 

49. Utilize the waterways.

We have already discussed the Staten Island Ferry, but the NYC Ferry Service is also nice to use. It connects Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx along the East River. The ferry costs the same amount as the subway and is a much prettier ride!

New York Accommodations On a Budget

Let’s just start by saying—there is no cheap real estate in New York City. If you want to stay in the worst of the worst hostel in Manhattan, it will still cost you at least $100 per double occupancy, per night, and that is dependent on the season. This is especially true if you don’t plan ahead.

We recommend that you not overspend on your hotel because you aren’t going to be spending much time there. Pick a clean, moderately priced place that you can live with, in a safe and convenient area. Save your money for the sights and food!

49. Book early .

Airbnb and Vrbo are your best ways to snag good rooms, at a decent price, in NYC, but you need to book as early as you can. The good rooms go fast, and if you want the best deals, you should book your room right after you book your flight! Searching about 3 months in advance might get you a room for around $75 on Booking.com, or a studio apartment on Airbnb for around $50, before fees.

50. Don’t stay in Manhattan.

You’ll get much more bang for your buck in Brooklyn, the Bronx, or Harlem. Brooklyn is probably the easiest and more efficient for Manhattan sightseeing. Just make sure to book a place that is a quick walk to the subway system to save yourself time and irritation.

51. Use Airbnb.

Budget hotels are okay, but in New York, you can get a whole furnished apartment with your own kitchen for the same price or less. If you book outside of Manhattan and book early, you may be able to score an apartment for as little as $50/day. You can save on your food prices by snagging some cheap groceries and alcohol to have a “home” instead of buying expensive meals out.

52. Couchsurf or Housesit.

Couchsurfing is a method of travel where you exchange a free stay with a local for cultural exchange, cooking a few meals, or helping with things. Technically there is no payment required, but it is highly encouraged that you spend some time with your host and at least buy them a meal or a round of drinks! We love Couchsurfing because it not only encourages cultural and ideological exchange but also helps travelers to really see a place. You will learn how New Yorkers actually live, where they hang out, and all the best places to eat!

Housesitting is where you exchange a free stay for taking care of someone’s home or pets while they are away. You will still have time to get out and explore, but you will have to feed the dog first. Just be careful with these and read the descriptions very carefully. Some homeowners expect way more than others, so you need to hold up your end of the deal, which could interfere with your travel itinerary.

Both Couchsurfing and Trusted Housesitters require a fee to use their platform. It’s pretty minimal and worth it if you travel regularly, but just know you will have to pay to join the system.

53. Utilize your credit card points.

If you want to stay in a nice spot in Manhattan, then start condensing your spending onto one travel rewards card. If you don’t have one, we suggest you sign up for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or the Capital One Venture Card for beginners. They are easy to use, and by the time you pay for your flights and some bills in the interim to your trip, you may earn enough points to score a free hotel room for a night or two. 

Closing Thoughts

The Big Apple doesn’t generally come cheap. There’s no way around that, but the expense is worth it! The city did not earn its reputation without merit.

It’s a beautiful place—a vibrant city that truly never sleeps. NYC is the heartbeat of the world when it comes to finance, boasts some of the finest theatres in the world, and is at the center of the world art scene. The city is historic and modern, glamorous and gritty. It’s a people-watchers paradise, home to all the weirdness you could ever ask for.

The long and short of it is that New York is special. There’s no other city in the world like it, and it deserves to be seen! Plus, if you follow our tips and plan ahead, you can visit this amazing place on a moderate budget, without missing out on any of its momentous spirit. 

One of the best things to do in New York City is to wander around looking up at all the incredible skyscrapers (just beware of busy New Yorkers on their way to work). For all the best architecture to gawk at, check out our informative list of “ 32 Famous Buildings in New York City ,” and there are plenty of other ideas for your New York City itinerary in “ Your Guide to the Big Apple: The Best Things to do in NYC .”

Happy planning!

Frequently Asked Questions

NYC is an expensive city, no doubt. Popular sights often cost upward of $30 to visit, accommodations run at least $100/night, and then there’s the cost of food. Tips to see New York on a budget can help!

New York City will never be a cheap vacation, but you can visit NYC without breaking the bank . Consider unconventional accommodations, use the subway system for cheap transit, and eat street food!

Let’s Roam offers over 50 ways to see New York on a budget , including sightseeing tips. App-guided scavenger hunt tours in New York will lead you to the best attractions without emptying your wallet!

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• There are loads of types of vacations in New York and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $538; Family vacation $473; Romantic vacation $595; Luxury vacation $650; Budget vacation $309.

Why should you book a vacation package to New York City?

When should you book a vacation package to new york city.

The best time to visit New York City is in the fall, when the weather is cooler and there are several big American traditions which see floats and parades taking to the streets. Some of the most popular events include Thanksgiving Day Parade in June, ice skating at Rockefeller Plaza, and the infamous New Years Eve Countdown in Times Square.

Where should you stay in New York City during your vacation?

For any vacation type in new york city:.

The Knickerbocker Hotel is a NYC landmark in the heart of Times Square with bespoke furniture, sweeping midtown views, and an electric rooftop bar. Take the Jamaica Train and connect via NYC Subway for the most authentic transport between JFK Airport and the Knickerbocker Hotel.

Conrad New York is an unpretentious 5-star hotel near Battery Park which offers daily connections to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. A taxi ride to this east side NYC hotel will cost you approximately 60 dollars and take up to 30 minutes.

For family vacations in New York City:

Novotel New York Times Square is a great central choice to match your the high-paced energy of your kids. Consider pre-booking your airport shuttle through the hotel's reception for a smooth transition from JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

Adjacent to Central Park, the Quin Hotel commissions local graffiti artists to decorate the interior of the building for a truly one-of-a-kind experience in the Big Apple. Take a combination of the Jamaica Train and NYC Subway to show the kids a more authentic angle on New Yorkers.

For romantic vacations in New York City:

Gramercy Park Hotel shoulders one of the most secluded parks in all New York City and also boasts famous iconic artworks from Andy Warhol and Keith Haring in an ever-changing selection. A taxi ride from JFK to Gramercy Park will cost you approximately $60.

The Langham New York on 5th Avenue encompasses all your needs with comfortably intimate rooms, a fitness center, and comprehensive spa treatments. For even more freedom while you travel, consider renting a car at JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

For luxury vacations in New York City:

The London NYC will have you feeling like you've visited two cities in just one trip! It features all-suites accommodation. You can travel in comfort to your midtown hotel like the locals do in an iconic NYC taxi from JFK Airport.

Refinery Hotel puts other accommodation options to shame with a 360 degree rooftop lounge and minimalist modern décor. Just a few blocks from Grand Central Station, it boasts a swanky bar and stunning downtown views. Consider taking the train for a classic experience when traveling in and out of New York City.

For budget vacations in New York City:

The Redbury New York is a 4-star hotel in the NoMad district which features a café, bar, and restaurant onsite so you don't get overwhelmed with choices on your next trip to the Big Apple. The Jamaica Airtrain is the fastest and least expensive way to transfer from midtown to JFK Airport.

Ameritania Times Square's location sets you in the heart of New York City's famous district, also within easy walking distance of the spacious Central Park. The most straightforward way to Times Square is via taxi from JFK Airport, which will cost approximately $60.

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38 Things to Do in NYC on a Budget: Attractions & Tips

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Looking to visit NYC on a budget and don’t know where to start?

It isn’t a city known for being affordable, but if you know what you’re doing, it isn’t so hard to explore NYC on the cheap.

Hotels will take up most of your New York vacation budget, but remember that you’ll most likely not do much more than sleep in the hotel, so prioritize a clean place in an ideal location, and you’ll be just fine. 

It might not seem at first, but there are tons of things to do in New York on a budget, especially if you’re visiting when the weather is nice and not around any major holiday weekends.

This guide has many ideas for planning your NYC trip on a budget, from free museum days to cheap eats to where to stay to get Broadway tickets for a discounted price.

For free things to do in NYC, read this guide .

Or check out our ultimate New York bucket list guide .

Sightseeing in New York City on a Budget

There is so much to see and do in NYC for cheap; sometimes, there’s nothing more thrilling than sitting on a park bench and watching the craziness of the city unfold.

But if you want to interact more, you can travel by ferry or aerial tram for both the ride and destination, spend an hour rowing on Central Park Lake, or take a food walking tour.

In fact, even the most modest New York travel budget could accommodate all three of those things and probably a lot more. 

For more fun things to do in NYC, check out this guide .

Central Park

Central Park doesn’t need much explanation; it is an 843-acre space in NYC with free admission and endless amazing things to see and do.

There’s monuments, ponds, running routes, and ample space for people watching!

Explore by foot or bike for the cheapest options.

This is also a popular spot for those looking for romantic things to do in New York City .

Central Park Rowboats

Central Park’s rowboats at Loeb Boathouse (Park Drive North, E 72nd St) are one of the best-kept secrets in the city.

For an affordable price, you can row with three other people for an hour on the iconic Central Park Lake.

The rowboats at Central Park are also included in our NYC bucket list .

American Folk Art Museum 

American Folk Art Museum (2 Lincoln Square) always has free admission and is the leading institution shaping the understanding of art by the self-taught through its exhibitions, publications, and educational programs.

Not only are there are a number of exhibitions but this museum also puts on live music sessions.

The most common option for more affordable tickets to Broadway is TKTS , a discount booth that offers options to various Broadway and Off-Broadway shows.

Note that they will always sell the most expensive seats first but you can always find tickets for more popular Broadway shows available from a 20% to even 50% discount.

The TKTS store is located under the red steps at Times Square.

Broadway Week

Broadway Week , which happens twice a year, usually in autumn and winter, actually runs for two weeks at a time and offers 2-for-1 ticket options to most Broadway shows.

Tickets will be issued at a 50% discount from their original price.

Rush/Lottery/Standing Room Only

Most shows offer a “rush” option in which you either go to the theater the day of the show to get a limited number of heavily discounted tickets or try your luck online.

For the more popular shows, people start lining up several hours before the box office opens, so plan accordingly, or you’ll miss out.

Lottery options are almost exclusively online, unlike rush; they aren’t first come, first serve, and you usually have to enter the lottery several days before the date you’d like to see the show.

If selected, you can purchase a heavily discounted ticket.

Standing-room-only tickets can usually only be purchased on the day of once a show is sold out 

See the list of which shows offer rush/lottery tickets here .

Moxy Times Square

Moxy Times Square (485 7th Ave) is the largest all-season indoor/outdoor hotel rooftop lounge in New York City and a great way to get a city view without paying the hefty entry fee.

Grand Central

Grand Central (89 E 42nd St) is much more than one of the busiest train stations in the world.

It is especially popular for the mesmerizing celestial ceiling, which was painted nearly a century ago.

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is filled with activities year-round, including outdoor summer films, juggling, ice skating in the winter , yoga classes, chess games, Broadway performances, and even a reading room.

This park is used by both locals and tourists — it’s one of our top recommended parks in NYC .

Roosevelt Island Tram

The Roosevelt Island Tram (E 59th St & 2nd Ave) is an aerial tramway that connects Manhattan to Roosevelt Island, and you can ride it for the cost of a subway ride.

It’s a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the city and also to check out Roosevelt Island, which was once mainly filled with hospitals, asylums, and a prison, and much of that history is still visible today.

Smalls Jazz Club

Smalls Jazz Club (183 W 10th St) is an intimate space (reservations are recommended) and is consistently rated as one of the best jazz clubs in NYC.

It states “Our mission is to subsidize the operation of our venues, recording projects, tours and educational initiatives.”

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park always has street performers, people picnicking, buskers, avant-garde artists, and more gathering around the iconic fountain and arch.

Free Outdoor Movies

NYC parks offer free outdoor movies in the warmer months throughout the city. 

Make sure to pack a picnic and get there early and grab a good spot, though, and they’re usually pretty popular events. 

The Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry (Whitehall Ferry Terminal) is not only a free way to get to Staten Island but also a great way to get a free view of the Statue of Liberty as the boat passes by it.

You can either hop back on the Ferry to get back to Manhattan or, if you hang around Staten Island, check out the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden (1000 Richmond Terrace), which has free admission.

Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tour 

While tickets for the bus tour aren’t cheap, if you use the tour effectively, it’s almost like having a chauffeur service taking you to all of the top spots in the city.

If you want reasonably priced bus tour tickets that combine with an entry to many NYC attractions, check them out here .

New York: CityPASS

A CityPASS will come in handy if you want to see lots of famous NYC attractions like the Empire State Building, the American Museum of Natural History, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and more.

Get a discounted ticket here .

Brooklyn Bridge

Walking Brooklyn Bridge (Tillary Street and Adams Street) is a time-honored NYC tradition and one of the best things to do in NYC on a budget, especially if you’re looking to soak in the views.

The Brooklyn Bridge also features in our guide to outdoor activities in NYC .

Dumbo Archway

Dumbo Archway (Water St b/t Adams St and Anchorage Pl, Dumbo) is underneath the Manhattan Bridge and brings performances, events, lunchtime vendors, and more to passersby.

Cheap Eats in NYC

Dine out without spending too with our following suggestions for cheap food in NYC!

Walking Food Tours

A food tour is a two-in-one option. 

For the cost of your ticket, you get guided around and learn some insider info while getting to try some of NYC’s best food, get a ticket for a Little Italy walking food tour here . 

If you’re looking to find great food in NYC on a budget, check out more places you should visit below.

Bodega Breakfast

While it may not be glamorous, getting your breakfast from the local bodega is a staple for anyone living in NYC on a budget.

For a couple of bucks, you can get the NYC classic – a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich and cup of coffee – to start your day off right in New York City on the cheap.

Empanada Mama

Empanada Mama (200 W 40th St, New York, NY) is a great spot for fresh, home-cooked comfort food that won’t break the bank. 

Plus, they’ve got so many flavors you could go back again and again and still have something new to try.

Brooklyn Bagel

Brooklyn Bagel (286 8th Ave) has everything you could ever want for a cheap and delicious breakfast in NYC, and they also offer non-dairy cream cheese and gluten-free bagels so everyone can find something to eat.

Vanessa’s Dumpling House

Vanessa’s Dumpling House (118A Eldridge St) is a top spot for New York City cheap eats, the dumplings are the most popular, but the entire menu is delicious – and at such low prices, you could order as much as you want. 

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria (1 Front Street) puts the pizza making on show at their coal brick-oven pizzeria that’s been making mouths water for decades with their “secret recipe” sauce and a 100-year-old dough recipe.

Holey Cream

Holey Cre a m (50 Greenwich Ave) serves over 40 flavors of ice cream and an ever-changing selection of fresh, delicious donuts, put the two together and add some toppings, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind dessert.

Johnny’s Bar

Johnny’s Bar (90 Greenwich Ave) is a classic dive bar with no frills and no fuss – if you want to get a feel for an old-school NYC bar, this is the place to go.

Cocu (26 Carmine St) combines fast food with fresh, seasonal, healthy ingredients, all centered around rotisserie chicken with a French twist.

Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget

NYC is a treasure trove just waiting to be explored, and the best way to do that on a budget is by checking out all of the flea markets, vintage shops, and secondhand stores.

Plus, it’s the best way to get some one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs that will be the perfect keepsake for your day out shopping in New York on a budget.

More places for shopping especially during the holidays are featured in our guide to New York in December .

Beacon’s Closet

With locations in Brooklyn and in Manhattan, Beacon’s Closet is one of the most well-known thrift stores, and their mix of vintage and modern items means you can find just about anything there.

Buffalo Exchange

Buffalo Exchange also has several locations around NYC and is particularly popular for its buy/sell/trade options.

Trade in some of your items for store credit and walk out with an outfit practically for free.

Housing Works

Housing Works (126 Crosby St) is a charity with several thrift shop locations that have incredible clothing finds, bric-a-brac, decor, furniture, and more – plus all of the proceeds go towards fighting the dual crisis of homelessness and AIDS. 

Grand Bazaar NYC 

Every Sunday, the Grand Bazaar NYC (100 W 77th St) has over 100 artisanal food, antique/vintage, artists, designers, craft-makers, and more at the city’s biggest curated weekly market.

Hester Street Fair

Hester Street Fair (Pier 17 in The Seaport) has a regular market most Saturdays with occasional Sunday events with vintage sellers, craft makers, boutique wares, food and drink, and live music.

Brooklyn Flea

Brooklyn Flea (29 W 25th St) is open every weekend year-round with furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles and antiques, jewelry, art, and crafts by local artisans and designers, as well as food and drink.

NYC Hotels on a Budget

Finding an affordable hotel is a tricky one, a lot of the pricing has to do with the time of year.

Even the most affordable hotels will be a lot more expensive around holidays or other big NYC events.

The smartest way to find the best place to stay in NYC on a budget is to come when there aren’t any major festivities, book in advance, try to book mid-week, and opt for a place that’s small and clean with fewer amenities – you’re really only going to sleep there anyway. 

Pod 51 (230 E 51st St) was the very first pod-style hotel in NYC.

Its affordable rates and rooftop access, and very quirky and colorful style will make you never want to leave this East Midtown spot.  

The Jane 

The Jane Hotel (113 Jane St) is located in the West Village and has all of the old-world charms you could ever want, and its different pricing tiers make it one of the most affordable hotels in NYC.

The Harlem Flophouse

The Harlem Flophouse (242 W 123rd St) is an 1890s Victorian townhouse in West Harlem that makes you feel like you’ve slipped back into a bygone era and its inexpensive rates mean you can stay for an extra day in NYC.

Carlton Arms Hotel 

Carlton Arms Hotel (160 E 25th St) is one of the quirkiest hotels in NYC, it is an independent art hotel, and all of the rooms, bathrooms, and walls in this Flatiron spot are covered in murals. 

ROW NYC (700 8th Ave) is perfectly situated in West Midtown and offers seven different types of rooms, all with a very chic Manhattan theme to suit any sort of budget.

The Cheapest Way to Travel in New York

Below are some of the cheapest options to travel around NYC if you’re on a budget.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is by far the best way to travel in NYC on a budget. 

The subway might seem a little overwhelming at first but give yourself a little bit of extra time to get to where you need to go, and just remember to differentiate between the uptown and downtown tracks, and you’ll be fine! 

When you look at the map, you’ll see a colored line with the subway line’s corresponding letter/number next to it; for example, the A, C, and E trains run along a blue line. 

The Manhattan Transit Authority (MTA) operates all buses and subways, any ride on a bus or subway has a fixed base fare regardless of the length of travel or the departure/destination.

There are also money-saving options available so be sure to check their site.

If you’re visiting for a week or less, you can purchase a weekly unlimited MetroCard or utilize the new OMNY system.

Both of them offer a worth of subway/bus rides which equals out to 12 trips. 

If you want to use a MetroCard, a new one costs around a dollar (and makes for a very affordable souvenir) and allows you to ride the subways and buses as much as you need.

OMNY doesn’t use a MetroCard, just tap your debit/credit card or any contactless device at the turnstile.

Once you take 12 trips between Monday and Sunday, all remaining rides for the week are free; just make sure you use the same device to pay for all 12.

When the weather is nice, you can also opt to use a Citi Bike if you want to explore NYC at your own pace.

They offer monthly plans as well as reasonably-priced day passes and single-ride plans.

How to Travel to New York on a Budget

Traveling to New York on a budget isn’t completely impossible.

Although it isn’t very glamorous, you can get several bus lines to NYC, like Greyhound , Flixbus , Megabus , and more. 

For a slightly more costly but much quicker option, you can take an Amtrak train, and of course, the most expensive option is to fly. 

3 Days in NYC on a Budget

Below, you can find a simple 3-day itinerary if you’re looking to explore NYC without breaking the bank.

• Start the day early and get a quick Bodega breakfast for bacon, egg, cheese (or whatever you choose), and a hot coffee.
• Head to Times Square to wait in a rush line until the box office opens at 10 am to get a cheap ticket to a Broadway show.
• Once you have tickets, hop on the 1/3 train uptown to the 72nd street stop and head into Trader Joe’s to pick up a picnic lunch, and make your way west through Central Park until you get to Loeb Boathouse (Park Drive North, E 72nd St).
• Enjoy your picnic on the grassy fields outside the boathouse and when you’re finished, rent your rowboat and spend an hour lazily rowing around Central Park Lake.
• Once you’re back on dry land, head back west through Central Park to wander the American Folk Art Museum (2 Lincoln Square) for an hour or two.
• Take the 1 train downtown or walk to Empanada Mama (200 W 40th St, New York, NY) for a quick but delicious and cheap dinner before you head to your Broadway show.
• If you’re not ready for the night to end, you can walk to Moxy Times Square (485 7th Ave) to get a cocktail or two and get an incredible view of the city all lit up at night.

Day 2 

• Your morning in NYC should start with a bagel, and Brooklyn Bagel (286 8th Ave) is one of the best.
• Then it is only a short walk to Chelsea Flea (29 W 25th St), where you can hunt for treasures to bring home to loved ones or a few unique souvenirs for yourself. 
• From there, you can walk to the F/M train at 23rd street downtown to Broadway-Lafayette St to explore Housing Works (126 Crosby St) and get some designer threads for a fraction of the cost.
• From there, it is only a short walk to Little Italy for a guided food tour and once you’ve had your fill of cannolis, wander around Chinatown and definitely grab dumplings and a bubble tea from Vanessa’s Dumpling House (118A Eldridge St).
• Then take the 6 train from Canal Street downtown to Brooklyn Bridge – City Hall (or walk 15-20 minutes) and watch the sunset as you walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into Dumbo.
• Check out the Dumbo Archway (Water St b/t Adams St and Anchorage Pl, Dumbo) for free music, performances, art, or whatever else is going on, and don’t forget to snap an iconic pic on Washington Street with the view of the Manhattan Bridge behind you.
• If you’re hungry, head under to the bridge to stop by Grimaldi’s Pizzeria (1 Front Street) for a slice (or two) of their famous thin-crust pizza.
• Take the F train uptown from York St to W 4 St- Washington Sq and get a late-night sweet treat at Holey Cream (50 Greenwich Ave) and sit and people-watch in Washington Square Park while you enjoy your dessert.

Day 3 

• Head to the Grand Bazaar NYC (100 W 77th St); grab some breakfast here and try to restrain yourself from blowing your budget on all the cool and interesting vendors.
• Take a stroll through Central Park, where you can pick up some Citi Bikes to the E 59th St and 5th Ave exit to drop off the bikes, then walk the rest of the way to the Roosevelt Island Tram (E 59th St & 2nd Ave).
• Roosevelt Island is pretty small, so get a coffee and spend an hour or so wandering around until you head back to Manhattan on the tram.
• Take the 4/5/6 line from 59 St-Lexington Ave to Grand Central – 42nd St to check out the iconic building, and once you’re done staring at the ceiling, take the shuttle to Times Square and transfer to the downtown 1 train to Christopher Street station.
• Experience the best rotisserie chicken in NYC at Cocu (26 Carmine St) and then settle into an evening of smooth listening at Smalls Jazz Club (183 W 10th St).
• Finally, if you’re not exhausted, get the last moments of NYC life at a local dive bar like Johnny’s Bar (90 Greenwich Ave).

New York City at Christmas on a Budget

The most magical time to visit NYC is also one of the most expensive but since many of the things to do in winter are outside, a budget trip is doable.

Wander the Christmas markets, check out the store windows, and ice skate, for free!

Check out our guide to NYC in December for more.

Final Thoughts

A cheap trip to New York City is definitely possible with the right planning and a little organizing. 

Plus, taking advantage of free things to do in New York, like visiting the parks, walking the bridges, and watching outdoor films, means you can spend more of your New York trip budget on visiting a pricier attraction or splashing out on fine dining if you want to.

Hopefully, this guide has shown you many things to do in NYC on a budget.

Let us know in the comments which ones you tried.

Our NYC Travel Guides

• NYC Bucket List
• Best NYC Observation Decks
• NYC Activities at Night
• Unique Things to Do in NYC
• Free Things to Do in NYC
• Romantic Things to Do in NYC
• NYC at Christmas
• All Our NYC Guides

Nicole is a freelance writer and loves everything from quaint seaside towns to big shiny cities. She is a New Yorker at heart but grew up in Delaware.

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How to Travel to New York City Cheaply: Our Top 35 Tips

Yes, you can experience New York City on a budget. Here are 35 ways to save money on an NYC vacation. 

By Pauline Frommer

June 20, 2023

New York City has more billionaires  than anywhere else on earth. But that doesn’t mean you have to be a one-percenter to visit. There are ways to do the city affordably, provided you’re savvy about it and willing to be flexible.

What follows are 35 helpful tips for planning an affordable trip to New York City, whose great riches—and I mean cultural riches such as Broadway shows, world-class museums, extraordinary architecture, innovative restaurants, top-tier dance and music, engaging literary events, and much, much more—still make NYC one of the most rewarding vacation destinations in the United States.

By the way, I’m the author of Frommer’s New York City 2023,  so if you like what you read here, consider getting the guidebook for even deeper intel on planning a great trip. 

Timing Accommodations Getting Around Sightseeing Entertainment Food Shopping Getting There

Visit in January, February, or March .   This is the most important tip on this list. During the chilly winter months, New York goes on sale—there are often promos for discount theater tickets and restaurant meals, as well as lower airfares into the city’s hubs. Most important, hotel prices drop an average of 66% compared to other times of year. I’ve seen rooms at very nice hotels sell for $129 per night in February; that same unit goes for $399 between September and the end of December. And that huge spread in costs is the rule, not the exception.

Fortunately, it’s not much of a sacrifice to come to New York in deep winter, since most of the city’s top sights and experiences are indoors. Because of climate change, snowy days and bitterly cold temperatures are few and far between in any case.  

Stay a Sunday night . One legacy of the pandemic is that New York has turned into more of a long weekend destination than a center for business travel. Consequently, Sunday nights are very quiet as other travelers head back home—and you can get a February-style deal if you just want to dip into the city for a night (or two—Mondays are the week's second-least expensive night at the moment).

Accommodations

Book reservations you can cancel .   This may not be the case in other markets, but in New York   last-minute hotel deals are almost always better than pay-in-advance rates. Do reserve a room when you first make plans to ensure you have a backup bed, but then undertake a search in the week leading up to your trip. Unless a major event such as the New York City Marathon is scheduled, you’ll almost always find that rates have dropped. Cancel your original reservation and opt for the lower price instead.  

Use a club to find a hotel . How you do that search is also important. I've found that those who book through private clubs such as  @Hotel   on Instagram, Travel + Leisure Go , and  Room Steals get better rates. For an explanation of why their rates are lower and a rundown of the pluses and minuses, click here . 

Or try Priceline . Especially if you want to find a deal on a hotel in Manhattan—Priceline has options for a number of midrange chains there. The online travel agency's Express Deals offer unusually low rates for overnighters willing to book without knowing the name of the hotel (though we know a free and easy hack for figuring out the name before booking).

Stay in Long Island City . Despite the name, this is a neighborhood in Queens that’s just one or two subway stops from Manhattan, making it a convenient area for sightseers. Until recently, Long Island City was mostly industrial, so the many chain hotels here charge less than they would in Manhattan or Brooklyn, because you'll likely have to travel to reach some of the restaurants and bars on your must-see list. 

This is one of the few affordable NYC neighborhoods for hotels. These days, most Brooklyn properties are as pricey as those in Manhattan—with the exception of hotels (like the one pictured above) in less touristed neighborhoods such as Red Hook. Decent hotel options are lacking in the rest of Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

Despite what you read elsewhere, I can't recommend booking an Airbnb for one simple reason: Almost all short-term rentals are against the law in New York City, which doesn’t allow rentals of under 30 days except with a rarely issued special license. Though the city has delayed enforcement of the law, an Airbnb crackdown could leave you bedless. 

Opt for a New Jersey hotel—but only if there's a rail link . New York City has one of the country's worst commutes—not to mention horrifically high parking prices—so I don’t recommend staying in New Jersey and driving into the city using your own vehicle or riding a bus. However, there are a handful of hotels situated near the PATH train  in Jersey City, Hoboken , and Newark that could work. Only use this tip if the above strategies don’t pan out .  

Getting Around

Just walk . That’s what New Yorkers do! Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the fascinating parade of fellow pedestrians as well as the endless varieties of restaurants, shops, and pocket parks. Manhattan, the borough where most visitors spend the bulk of their time ('cause that's where the densest concentration of important museums and historic sights is), has a grid system for the majority of streets, so it's simple to avoid getting lost. Going uptown? Look for numbers going up. Going east? Fifth Avenue is the dividing line between east and west for most of the island. 

Rely on subways and buses . If you have to go a considerable distance—say, a mile and a half or more—hop on a bus or the subway. At $2.75 per ride, this is the most cost-effective way to get around, beyond strolling, and the subway will often get you where you’re going far faster than a taxi, thanks to perennially gridlocked streets. Buses get their own lanes on many avenues and are therefore more efficient than taxis and Uber rides much of the time. 

For tips on navigating New York for those with accessibility concerns, consult the Metropolitan Transit Authority's accessible transit guide  or the guide to accessibile transportation compiled by New York City's official tourism office .

Sightseeing Savings

Take a free harbor cruise for up-close views of the Statue of Liberty .   There’s no cost to jump aboard the Staten Island Ferry , and while I don’t recommend tourists spend much time in Staten Island (simply take the ferry back; other boroughs have more items of interest), getting into New York Harbor and seeing the city and Lady Liberty from that viewpoint is a splendid experience.

See incredible NYC views without paying a dime . Yes, going to the top of the Empire State Building is a classic tourist experience. And the new SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a hoot with its all-glass interior, floating mirrored balls, and fab Midtown views. But at $42 to $79, those skyline-skimming experiences are not cheap. You can see spectacular cityscapes for free from these spots: 

• • the top of Little Island
• •  Domino Park
• •  Brooklyn Heights Promenade
• • the walkway of the Brooklyn Bridge
• •  Belvedere Castle in Central Park
• •  Governors Island
• • the upper levels of the Shops at Columbus Circle  for Central Park views (pictured below)
• •  Brooklyn Bridge Park

Or, for really high views for the cost of a cocktail, head to Overstory , Manhatta , or Dear Irving .

Be part of the studio audience for a free TV taping . Yes, you can watch Saturday Night Live , The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon , The Drew Barrymore Show,  and  The   Late Show with Stephen Colbert for free at home. But seeing tapings in person introduces you to the effort and artistry that go into making a TV show. It’s a fun and fascinating look behind the scenes. To learn how to snag free seats to those shows and others taped in NYC, click here .

Head to one of the city’s free museums . Alas, such marquee museums as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History no longer have “pay what you wish” policies (except for citizens of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut). But many smaller, stellar cultural institutions do. These include the Museum of the City of New York , African Burial Ground National Monument , the  National Museum of the American Indian , the  Museum at FIT , El Museo del Barrio , Federal Reserve Bank , Hamilton Grange National Memorial , BLDG 92 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard , the New York Public Library (which has excellent exhibits at its 42nd street branch) and the American Folk Art Museum .

Visit other museums when they’re free . Though entry fees have risen in the past 2 years at pretty much all of New York City’s museums, most still have weekly get-in-free periods.  Here's a quick summary of where and when entry fees are waived at some of the city’s top cultural draws.

And it's important to remember that visiting art galleries is always free. New York City has more of those than any other city on earth, meaning the variety of art you'll see here is mind-blowing. Click here for more info on that.

Get a CityPass . If you plan to see the city’s most famous sights during your vacation, buying a CityPass will save you a good amount of money. Take a look at  this article  to find which attractions are covered and how much you’ll save by getting the pass. 

Sign up for a Big Apple Greeter tour . This personalized tour, led by a local volunteer who is well versed in the area you'll be exploring, is absolutely free and can be scheduled at the most convenient time for you. Here’s a Frommer's report  on the wonderful Greeter program.

Join a free walking tour . Truth be told, these are free in name only, because participants are expected to tip at the end. But what you tip is up to you, and because guides are working for tips alone, there’s a self-selection process, with only the most entertaining guides sticking with the job. I recommend Free Tours by Foot .

Wander through a park .  Central Park (pictured below) was the first landscaped public park in the United States, influencing thousands of other municipal green spaces across the country. Central Park is still a wonder, but you'll also be wowed by the elevated High Line , the floating  Little Island , the transformed sugar factory  Domino Park , and many other innovative, artistic parks across the city. Bring a picnic and enjoy.

Kayak on the Hudson for free . Thanks to the all-volunteer nonprofit Downtown Boathouse at Pier 26 , anyone can take a kayak for a spin on the Hudson River at no cost. There are also free lessons available for those who’ve never kayaked before. Visit HudsonRiverPark.org for more info. (Obviously, this is strictly a warm-weather activity.)

Entertainment

Get discounted Broadway theater tickets . The majority of shows on Broadway (and Off-Broadway) sell cut-rate tickets either through discounters or lotteries, or to playgoers willing to stand rather than sit throughout the show.  See our detailed advice  on the many ways you can save on live performances. 

Soak up the scene in Times Square .   If you’re in Times Square for a Broadway show, hang out a bit longer for some free nighttime entertainment. The pedestrianized square becomes an impromptu stage for talented performers every night. And at 11:57pm, the lights around the square dance in a choreographed 3-minute light show that’s been heralding midnight—and delighting visitors—for the past decade.

Try to snag tickets for Shakespeare in the Park . In summertime, there are few better ways to spend an evening than at this festival held in Central Park and starring some of the biggest stars of stage and screen. Meryl Streep, Denzel Washington, Natalie Portman, and Al Pacino are just a few of the celebs who've trod these boards. Tickets are free and available via lottery or by waiting in line at the theater. Good luck—er, break a leg!  Click here  for more details.

Attend a book reading or lecture .   Because the city is the media capital—home to major TV and radio networks, publishing houses, and journalism outlets—top minds know that New York is the preeminent soapbox for telling a story, explaining a concept, or otherwise broadcasting one's yawp to the world, to paraphrase the New Yorker Walt Whitman . Held at bookstores, universities, and cultural centers, literary events are usually free to attend, though some require the purchase of a book. They happen every night of the year—simply search online for “book readings NYC” to see what’s on.

Find a festival . In the warm-weather months, the city hosts numerous free or low-cost festivals that bring symphonic music, opera, dance, jazz, and other types of performance to the city’s parks and outdoor stages. The work on display is often stellar since the quality of the talent in New York City is so high. Again, a quick online search will show you what’s happening while you’re here.

Share dishes and under-order . Restaurant prices have gone up across the United States, but so have portion sizes. Of course, you won’t learn that from the server. Waiters across Gotham have been trained to say, “We recommend 3–4 dishes per person.” Don’t believe it—under-order and share dishes. You can always order more if you're still hungry.

Go with the city’s starchy specialties .   I’m talking bagels and pizza, two staples NYC does better than any other city in the USA (sorry, Chicago). You can craft serious meals from both, and many of New York's pizza restaurants have handsome décor, potent potables, and other trappings of a night on the town. Or you could just grab a slice and keep sightseeing. Up to you. To see a list of Frommer's-recommended NYC restaurants—including bagel joints and pizza parlors— click here .

Make a meal of happy hour specials .   If you’re willing to dine before 6pm—and at the bar—you can make a nice meal out of the happily priced happy hour specials offered at many of the city’s top restaurants. These include a tasty meatball sandwich at Portale ; flatbread pizzas at Iris ; cheap beers (just $4!) and oysters, shrimp, and corn dogs at Sidney’s Five ; curried mussels and seafood fritters at Kokomo ; and so on.

Go upscale for lunch .   If you want to try one of the city’s top restaurants but don’t want to spend your child’s college fund doing so, make a lunch reservation. Such temples of gastronomy as Ai Fiori , Aquavit , Iris , Le Pavillon , Le Bernardin , and others offer tasting menu lunches for 25% to 50% less than what you’d pay at dinner.

Eat in Queens . The most recent U.S. census found that 47.2% of the people who live in Queens were born outside the United States. They are from all over the world, and that diversity is reflected in the borough's smorgasbord of authentic, inexpensive restaurants showcasing the culinary heritage of an astonishing roster of nations.

Some of these cuisines are next to impossible to find elsewhere in the United States, or in such wide variety. For instance, in the neighborhood of Flushing—one of the largest Chinese enclaves outside of Asia—it’s possible to try Hakka, Korean, Taiwanese, Shanghainese, Hunanese, Sichuanese, Cantonese, Fujianese, Mongolian, and Uyghur fare, all within a few blocks. Also in the borough: restaurants serving food from Venezuela, the Czech Republic, Greece, Ecuador, Sri Lanka, and on and on and on.

Want to try a variety of different cuisines all in one place? Head to the awe-inspiring Queens Night Market , where most dishes cost just $3–$4 apiece.

Get your souvenirs in Chinatown . In the market for a Statue of Liberty hat, an I Love NY sweatshirt, or a snow globe containing a yellow taxi and a skyscraper? Wait until you get to Manhattan’s Chinatown to buy. The neighborhood has dozens of souvenir stores selling the same goods you’ll find in Times Square or near the Empire State Building, but at a fraction of the cost.

Visit a discount haven . The city has a number of top-notch outlet stores that sell all kinds of goods at deep discounts. At the forefront are B&H Photo Video (for electronics and cameras), Century 21 (for designer fashions), and Empire Outlets on Staten Island (for savings on big box brands).

Getting There

Ditch your car . Please don’t drive into New York City. Your costs will rise exponentially if you do, thanks to nightly parking rates rivaling the cost of a hotel stay in other cities. If you must drive, park your car in one of the bedroom communities that has train access into the city, and use public transportation while in New York itself.

Hop a cheap bus. If you’re coming in from Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, Providence, or other relatively nearby spots, there are inexpensive buses that will get you into the heart of NYC.  Wanderu.com is an excellent resource for finding these types of fares.

Do a smart search for airfares .   In Frommer’s most recent study , we found that Skyscanner  returned the lowest rates on airfares most consistently. Start there.  

Search for and book flights on the right day of the week .  According to another study  examining tens of millions of booked airfares (not just airfare searches) done by the Airlines Reporting Corporation, passengers who buy tickets on Sundays can save a good amount, statistically speaking. It’s also important to purchase roughly 4–6 weeks before travel. That’s the sweet spot for getting a good rate.

Now come and enjoy the Big Apple. We look forward to welcoming you to the greatest city on earth!

Related : The Best Cheap Hotels in New York City for 2023

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Feel rich living within your means

New York City on a Budget: 10 Tips for a Cheap Trip

By Eden Ashley MintNotion.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on this site, we will earn a commission at no added cost to you. This helps keep the content on this website free for everyone to enjoy. Disclosure Page

How to travel to New York City on a budget. Whether you’re planning a girls weekend or a family trip to NYC, follow these tips on where to stay, shop, and eat in New York on the cheap.

I’ve met people that told me they want to visit New York City, but haven’t gone because they think it’s too expensive. That’s a shame because New York City is one of the best cities in the world and it can be affordable on even a tight budget.

Yes, that’s right! Even when I was a broke student, I found plenty of ways to do New York on the cheap.

So whether you’re planning a family trip to New York City on a budget or want to go shopping in New York with your friends, this post can help you get the most bang for your buck!

Here are my favorite ways to visit New York on a dime!

Related Post: 

• Visiting NYC for the first-time: 10 tourist mistakes to avoid making
• New York CityPASS vs. New York Pass – Which is better?
• My honest New York pass review – is it worth it?

Table of Contents

1. Save money with the New York Pass

New York is a big city and there’s lots of fun things to do and see. It can be challenging to plan an itinerary and determine which attractions to spend your money on.

Getting the most bang for your buck is my #1 priority when planning a vacation and the New York Pass was rated the #1 NYC city pass by TripAdvisor.

They’re also recommended by Expedia and the New York Pass currently have a TrustScore rating of 4.1/5 on Trust Pilot (23,000+ reviews).

Over 3.5 million travelers have used the pass and 9 out of 10 customers recommend the New York Pass to their friends.

With the New York Pass, you can save time, money, and enjoy stress-free sightseeing. But don’t just take my word for it. Check out these reviews.

PRO TIP:  Buy the pass online to save time and hassle. Plus, you’ll save extra money off  the retail price. To buy the New York Pass, click here to go to the official website.

Here’s what’s included in the New York Pass:

✓ Pick from over 100 NYC attractions ✓ Valid for up to 10 days ✓ Save up to 50% compared to purchasing tickets at each attraction ✓ Visit unlimited amount of NYC attractions each day

The New York Pass is a prepaid sightseeing card that can be used to get FREE fast-track entry to over 100+ attractions , museums, and tours in the city.

Below are some of my favorite attractions included in the New York Pass.

Observation decks in NYC:

• Edge NYC ($43.55 value)
• Empire State Building ($47.91 value)
• Top of the Rock Observatory ($43.55 value)

Museums in NYC:

• 9/11 Memorial & Museum ($28.00 value)
• American Museum of Natural History ($23.00 value)
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) ($25.00 value)

Tours in NYC:

• Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off tour ($59.00 value)
• Statue of Liberty Ferry and Ellis Island Immigration Museum ($24.00 value)
• Best of NYC Cruise by Circle Line ( $44.00 value)

Plus, you can use the New York Pass to get free entry to  100+ other attractions , museums, and tours in the city. Once you’ve bought the New York Pass, you can visit as many attractions as you want.

The more sights you visit, the more money you save! Think of it like an all-inclusive holiday. This is one of the best ways to save money visiting NYC.

How to get your New York Pass:

Step 1: Choose which pass duration you want to buy (1, 2, 3, 5, 7, or 10-day). You can click here to purchase your New York Pass from their official website.

HURRY! Save up to $170 off the New York Pass . Offer ends April 14th. You have 2 years to activate the pass.

Why you should consider buying the pass online:

• When you buy the pass online, you can take advantage of online discounts .
• They offer a 365-day money-back guarantee , so you can get a full refund just in case your plans change.
• You can activate your pass anytime within two years from the date of purchase.

Step 2: Download your mobile pass instantly using the New York Pass app.

If you prefer a physical pass, simply print your pass and guidebook at home. Links and easy-to-follow instructions for both options will be in your confirmation email.

Step 3: You now have FREE access to any of the 100+ top NYC attractions included for the duration of your pass.

How to activate the pass : It will activate once you visit your first attraction and can then be used on consecutive calendar days for the number of days purchased. 

You’ll also receive a free guidebook , which is included with your purchase. Use this book to help you easily plan your itinerary.

Read Next: What is the best New York sightseeing pass?

2. Use the New York Metro

What is the cheapest way to get around New York? Ride the local metro. This is the fastest way to get to all the must-see attractions on your itinerary.

When I first visited New York City, I was overwhelmed by the subway system. It looked like a big spider web to me. But once I rode the metro, I quickly learned that it was easy to use.

Grab a MetroCard at one of the MetroCard ticket machines in the airport or at most subway stations.  

This is a thin plastic rechargable card that you can use to pay-as-you go on the different types of public transportation in New York City. If you plan on riding the subway in NYC, then you NEED to get a MetroCard.

You can buy:

• a Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard. The minimum value is $5.50.
• a 7-Day or 30-Day Unlimited MetroCard
• a 7-Day Express Bus Plus MetroCard

Below are some helpful tips for riding the metro :

• Make sure you enter the correct station Some stations may only go Uptown or Downtown, while some offer both lines. Read the sign before entering the station and paying your metro fare.
• Be aware of which train stops at which station Express trains bypass some stations while local trains stop at each station on the line. You can check a map at any metro station for help.
• Download a map of the subway system on your phone There are also maps posted in each station too if you need assistance.

For New York Pass holders , you can take the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour . This is a fun and convenient way to explore all the top attractions on your sightseeing itinerary.

3. Should you fly, drive or take the train?

There are many ways to get to New York City.  Flying is the fastest and most convenient option  for many, but sometimes driving or taking the train is more affordable.

Driving to New York

If driving, you won’t need your car to get around NYC. Instead, find a garage to park your car for the duration of your stay. If going with a group, this is the best value because you can divide the cost between everyone.

Flying to New York

When flying, there are three major airports close to Manhattan:

Compare flight prices and select the one with the best price.

Depending on where your accommodation is located, travel times from the airport to your hotel may vary. I always sign-up for email alerts on Skyscanner . This lets me know when it’s the best time to book.

I usually fly into LGA or EWR since it has offers the best price for me. You can take the bus into the city for only a few dollars. This is much more affordable than taking a taxi.

If you’re flying into JFK Airport, which is the closest airport to the city, consider taking a private transfer from the airport to your hotel.

When traveling with a small group, splitting the cost can be affordable and more comfortable than waiting in long lines for a taxi. This is also great for travellers who have a lot of luggage.

PRO TIP : If you take a taxi from the airport to your hotel, be aware of the fares. There are flat rates from the airport to most locations in Manhattan, so don’t let your cab driver overcharge you!

When is the cheapest month to fly to New York?

The cheapest month to fly to New York is in February. This is also when hotel rates are affordable and there are less tourists. Winter is cold in New York, however February can be a great month to visit if you’re dressed appropriately.

When is the best month to visit New York?

The best time of year to visit New York is in the spring (April through June) and fall (November to December). The weather is mild in the spring and there are fewer tourists than the summer months and Christmas season.

4. Compare hotel rates

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it’s no surprise that New York City hotels can be extremely expensive (starting at $200+ per night).

My number one tip is to start checking hotel prices early and on a daily basis. Checking prices in advance can give you more hotel options and figure out where to stay in New York on a budget.

Best place to stay in New York on a budget:

After visiting New York City several times and staying in different neighborhoods, I recommend staying in one of these 5 areas:

• Midtown – The BEST neighborhood for first-timers
• Times Square – The heart of Manhattan. You can’t beat its location.
• Upper East Side – Ideal for museum lovers and close to Central Park
• Lower East Side & Soho – Ideal for shopping
• Greenwich Village & Chelsea – Lots of great restaurants
• Brooklyn – Ideal for travellers on a budget

Best hotels in New York City for every budget :

If you’re traveling on a budget, these are the best budget hotels in NYC:

• CitizenM New York Times Square
• Hotel Scherman (Midtown)
• Artezen Hotel (Minutes from the National September 11 Memorial & Museum)

If you have some more wiggle room in your budget, below are some of the best mid-range hotels in New York:

• Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan/Midtown East
• Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Midtown Manhattan/Penn Station
• AC Hotel by Mariott New York Times Square

If you want to splurge on your accommodations, below are some popular luxury hotels:

• The Standard, High Line
• The Beekman A Thomspon Hotel
• New York Marriot Marquis (Time Square)

AVOID staying at Airbnbs in New York since they are illegal . You’re better off booking a hotel for the ease and comfort of your trip.

Besides using Booking.com to find affordable hotels, I’ve also had good luck using Hotwire to score 4 or 5-Star hotels for cheap.

Read Next: Where to stay in NYC: Neighborhood guide for first timers

Should you stay outside of Manhattan to save money?

No, I don’t recommend staying outside of the city.

I’ve stayed outside of Manhattan (in New Rochelle) before and it was such a hassle to commute to and from the city.

You’re reliant on the train schedule and round-trip tickets from New Rochelle Station to Grand Central were $20+ per person during peak hours ($15+ off-peak).

When traveling with a group, the price of train tickets can add up fast. This may not make the savings on your accommodations worth it.

5. See Broadway shows at a discount

One of the most popular things to do in New York City is to see a show on Broadway. But tickets can be very expensive.

I found the best way to save money on show tickets is to look for deals on Get Your Guide . This website offers lots of discounted tickets to shows, concerts, sports, and more.

For same-day tickets, visit one of the TKTS ticket booths in New York to get discount Broadway tickets. You can save from 20% to 50% off regular prices.

6. Consider visiting during the off-season

New York City is a major domestic and international tourist destination year round.

A visit during the off-season doesn’t really exist; but if you’re looking for less crowds and reduced hotel prices, the best time to go is between January and March .

New York City can get quite cold during the winter months, so keep this in mind if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities; summer tends to be hot and humid.

I have found great deals on hotels during both of these times with patience and daily price checking on Booking.com .

When time of year are hotels cheapest in New York?

The cheapest time to visit New York City in the winter months (January through March).

The second best time of year to find cheap hotels in New York is during the summer months (July through August).

The busiest and most expensive time of year to visit New York is during Christmas.

7. Check out free things to do in New York City

While the city can be expensive, there’s lots of things to do in New York on a budget.

I also like searching for discounts Get Your Guide . This website offers discounts on cheap attractions in NYC, sightseeing tours, day trips, Broadway show tickets, and more.

Below are some of my favorite free things to do in New York:

• Walk along the High Line
• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset
• See the Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry
• Have a picnic in Central Park
• Visit Grand Central Terminal
• People watch in Bryant Park
• Visit the New York Public Library
• Explore Times Square
• Check out Coney Island
• Go on free walking tours
• Go inside Trinity Church

Take advantage of free museum days

You can free admission to select New York City museums by visiting on free days, which makes this a great option to save money.

The only down side is free museum days are always busy . This is why I recommend arriving BEFORE the museum opens to avoid long wait times.

Side Note: For New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut residents ONLY , some museums (such as The Met) offer “pay what you wish” admission. A valid form of ID is required.

Read Next: 7 best free skyline views in Manhattan

8. Skip the New York souvenirs

Manhattan is a shopper’s paradise. From high street to luxury finds, there’s no end to the spending you can do in the city. While many visitors come to New York specifically to shop, I recommend setting a budget for yourself and sticking to it.

Skip the cheesy souvenirs and budget for something important to you. If the locals aren’t wearing “I ‘heart’ NYC” fashion, you probably shouldn’t either.

9. Eat dinner during happy hour

Happy hour is popular in New York City and offered seven days a week at some restaurants.

Happy hour can be found throughout Manhattan and is great for drink and food specials.

It usually starts at around 4:00pm and goes until 8:00pm (or closing). If you’re not sure where to go, you can check for deals online. Most restaurants also advertise with signs outside.

Food specials can include pre-fix menus or up to 50% off appetizers. New York restaurants can be expensive and eating during happy hour can be a great way to save money.

Below are some more tips on how to eat in New York City for cheap:

• For breakfast , stop by a local deli for a quick and delicious breakfast or grab a bagel at one of the many food stands on the street.
• For lunch , have a slice of pizza from Joe’s Pizza or head to one of the popular food trucks. If you’re not sure which one try, just look for one with a long line-up of locals.
• Look for bottomless brunch – Many spots offer a flat price to get unlimited drinks or cocktails with your food. This is only offered on the weekends and can be a good deal if you like to drink at brunch.
• Eat dumplings in Chinatown – This is one of the best deals in town and they are super filling.
• Grab dinner in the Lower East Village – This is a great spot for nightlife, old-school bars, and affordable restaurants.
• Instead of Little Italy, head to Arthur Avenue – New York’s Little Italy is geared towards tourists. Instead, go to Arthur Avenue where you’ll find the best Italian eats in the city.

PRO TIP : For cheap easts, head to Chinatown or the Lower East Side neighborhood.

10. Spend time outdoors

Finally, a great way to stay on a budget when visiting New York City is to spend time outdoors. People watch in Central Park , take a stroll on The High Line or walk across the Brooklyn Bridge are some of my favorite outdoor activities to do in the city.

Another great thing to do is to walk through the different neighborhoods in Manhattan. I love the architecture in Soho and walking through Greenwich Village. Check to see if there are any free events or walking tours happening outdoors when visiting.

During the winter months, walking around the city can be a bit cold so make sure to dress for the weather and stop inside a local cafe to warm up with a hot beverage.

Ready to plan your NYC vacation? See what hotel deals are available in the area thanks to Booking.com

New York City on a Budget FAQs

Below are some common questions about how to visit New York on budget.

How much money do you need per day in New York City?

Your daily budget should be around $239 per person for your vacation. Based on the expenses of other visitors, this is the average daily price. (Price are in USD).

As you can see, a vacation to New York for one week will cost an average of $1,676 per person. ( Source )

How much money to take to New York for 4 days – Depending on your interests, you’ll want to take around $959 per person for your four day trip to NYC.

How much is a trip to New York for 2? A vacation to New York for one week will cost an average of $3,351 for two people.

What is the cheapest month to visit New York?

The cheapest months to visit New York are January and Februrary. You can also find affordable hotel deals during April to June and September to early November. This is when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

What is there to do in NYC on a budget?

• Explore Central Park on foot or by bike.
• Walk the High Line.
• Ride the Staten Island Ferry to see the Statue of Liberty.
• See the 9/11 Memorial.
• Walk through Times Square at night.
• Walk or bike across the Brookyln Bridge.
• Check out Grand Central Terminal
• Save on the city’s top attractions with the New York Pass .
• Walk the boardwalk at Coney Island in the summer.
• People watch in Washington Square Park.

Can you travel to New York on a budget?

Yes, it’s possible to have an amazing vacation to New York on a budget. Even though New York is an expensive city, there are many easy ways to save money.

Money-saving tips for getting around New York :

• Ride the subway – The subway is the fastest and cheapest way to get around New York City. If you’re spending a week in NYC, your best option is to get the 7-day unlimited pass.
• Walk – New York is a very walkable city. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Riding the metro and walking is the best way for tourists to get around NYC.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – If you’re planning to purchase the New York Pass, you can get around to all the top sights for free by riding the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus.

Money-savings tips for sightseeing in New York :

• Free attractions and events – There are plenty of free things to do in New York. Some museums offer free days for New York residents or tourists.
• Get a New York Sightseeing Pass – If you want to visit all the top attractions for 70% off the regular price, consider getting the New York Pass . This can be a good option for first-time visitors. If you only want to visit a few popular attractions, check out the New York CityPASS or New York Explorer Pass instead.

Money-savings tips for cheap hotels in New York :

• Compare prices – I like to compare hotel prices on Booking.com . This is my go-to site for finding cheap hotel accommodations.
• Last-minute deals – Find last-minute hotel deals on Hotwire . This can be a great site to save up to 60% off hotel rates.

Money-savings tips for cheap eats in New York :

• Eat dinner during happy hour – This can also be a great time to enjoy cheap drinks.
• Check out local street carts – There are lots of local food trucks and street carts available in New York. Enjoy donuts, bagels, hotdogs, tacos, sandwiches and more.
• Eat New York pizza – Try New York style pizza by the slice. This is usually great for a cheap lunch.
• Picnic in the park – Grab food from the local grocery store or NYC deli and have a picnic in Central Park.
• Chinatown – This neighborhood is home to some of the best cheap eats in New York.

How many days in New York is enough?

3-5 days is the perfect amout of time to do New York. If you’re visiting for the first time and plan to check out a lot of attractions, stay 5 days. If you’re just in town to see a Broadway show and a couple of attractions, then 3 days is enough.

Which airport is cheapest to fly into NYC?

New York LaGuardia Airport is the cheapest airport to fly into New York. Although prices will vary based on each traveller.

Is eating out in New York expensive?

Yes, New York is known to be one of the most expensive cities in the world for dining. Check the menu before going to make sure that it’s in your budget. For cheaper options, consider street food, ethnic restaurants in Chinatown and Lower East Side, and eating during Happy Hour.

About Eden Ashley

Eden has an MBA and a degree in Psychology. As a new mom (and homeowner), she knows the importance of having a budget that works. She's helped thousands of women get good with money using the same strategies she used to save $100,000 by age 25. Click here to learn how to create a better budget!

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Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget

Oct 30, 2018

Craig Nelson

Welcome to  New York , one of the top tourist destinations in the world. It’s home to the bright lights of Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and not surprisingly, some of the most expensive prices on the planet.

Whether you want to visit one of the world’s top museums, grab a bite to eat, or catch a Broadway show, the city that never sleeps will also never let go of your wallet. It’s easy to blow through your budget here in a “New York minute” if you’re not careful.

More New York tips: • The best budget hotels in New York City • 10 easy ways to save on a trip to the Big Apple • The best cheap eats near Times Square

How to visit New York on a budget

But don’t cancel your vacation plans or scream, “Fuhgeddaboudit!” just yet. Along with all of the high-priced pleasures also come plenty of low-cost fun. In fact, despite the city’s reputation of prices as high as the Chrysler Building, if you plan your trip right, New York can be a very affordable vacation destination.

And that’s where we come in. Although EuroCheapo is primarily focused on ways to save in Europe, we’re based in New York and have plenty to say about ways to save on your trip here. Read on to learn our secrets to keeping your Big Apple budget in check.

How expensive is it?

Quick answer: Very, if you’re not careful. Things are just bigger, bolder and pricier in New York. This is especially the case in tourist-friendly neighborhoods like Times Square and SoHo or upscale areas like Tribeca or the Upper East Side. If you don’t have a strategy to save when you’re exploring the city, then you can easily spend hundreds of dollars a day during your visit.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in 2018 for a few sample items:

• Average hotel per night: $275 ( EuroCheapo recommended hotels : $150) • Taxi ride from Times Square to Greenwich Village: $16 + tip • Typical attractions : $25 and up • “Nice” meal for two (with tip and drinks): $100 and up • Beer : $6-8 • Coffee : $3-5 • Bottle of water : $2-3

The Mayfair Hotel offers affordable rooms in the heart of the city. Photo: Courtesy of Mayfair

Saving on hotels

When it comes to searching for affordable hotels in New York, things can sometimes seem impossible for budget-conscious travelers. Unless you’re searching for a Sunday night in February, you’ll probably immediately see several rates for $400 and up on most popular booking sites. And yes, that’s per night!

Then, when you drill down into the cheaper sleeps, you will most likely find some much less expensive options, but most will be far away from Manhattan in the far reaches of the outer boroughs or across the water in New Jersey.

However, there are still several affordable and central accommodation options that offer a good value, and that’s where EuroCheapo can help. Almost all of our New York City hotels clock in at $150 per night or less and many of our favorite picks come in at under $100  during low season. Even if some of the rates seem expensive for a one- or two-star hotel, remember, we only recommend hotels that have central locations, so you won’t have to spend half of your vacation on the subway.

And with so many well-located hotels to choose from, your hardest decision might be picking which NYC neighborhood is right for your visit .

Some of our favorite budget hotels in central New York include:

• The Mayfair in Times Square (Doubles from $120)

• The Jane Hotel in Greenwich Village (Singles from $88)

• The Carlton Arms Hotel in Gramercy Park (Doubles from $90)

• SoHotel in SoHo (Doubles from $129)

• Hotel 31 in Murray Hill (Doubles from $96)

• Seafarers & International House in Union Square (Doubles from $115)

• The Pod Hotel in Midtown (Doubles from $94)

Other options

Renting an apartment: Searching on apartment rental sites like Airbnb, Homeaway, and others, can turn up some great deals, and these rentals have the extra benefit of including a kitchen or small kitchenette. Just be sure to pay attention to location, as many of the most affordable rentals are not located in central Manhattan, but in farther reaches of the outlying boroughs. Also pay attention to check-in / check-out policies, as you don’t want to be locked out on a city sidewalk without access to your rental.

Youth hostels: Cheapest of all the options is staying in a dorm or private room of a youth hostel. New York offers several, although our favorite in the city is the Hosteling International New York City Hostel , located in a gorgeous turn-of-the-century brick building on the Upper West Side near Central Park. Doubles from $46.

Connecting from the AirTrain to the subway at JFK is easy. And a lot cheaper than a taxi. Photo: Matthew R.

Affordable ways to get in from the airport

New York City has an excellent (well, most of the time) public transportation network that runs 24 hours a day. All three of New York’s main airports are connected to Manhattan by rail or bus, although some of these trips are easier than others.

To/From JFK Airport you can take the AirTrain and subway ($7.75 total trip, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to/from Midtown).

To/From Newark International Airport you can take the AirTrain to NJ Transit trains , which go directly to Penn Station ($13 total trip, approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour)

To/From LaGuardia (LGA) you can take the new Q70 express bus that makes limited stops and connects to the subway ($2.75, approximately 45 minutes from Midtown).

All of the options above are much cheaper than a taxi, which, granted can be quicker (if you don’t hit rush hour traffic), but will easily top out at over $50 with tip and tolls. Estimated taxi costs to/from Midtown Manhattan to:

LaGuardia: Metered ride $30-40 (depending on traffic) + tolls & tip

JFK: $52 flat fee + tolls & tip

Newark: Metered ride $50-75 + tolls & tip

Airport buses

A more budget-friendly solution is to take an airport shuttle bus directly to Midtown. There are several companies such as NYC Airporter ,  Super Shuttle , Go Airlink  and  Newark Airport Express   that offer service from $15 to $24.

Tickets are generally not required in advance; just head outside the terminal and follow signs for “buses to Manhattan.” However, you could save a few dollars by booking tickets in advance through the websites above.

Saving on getting around town

Once you arrive, plan on taking the subway and walking a lot if you really want to see the city and save on transportation costs. Walking is a budget traveler’s best friend, and New York is no exception. Especially if you plan on spending most of your time in Manhattan, it’s not that difficult to get nearly everywhere on foot, mixing in an occasional subway trip to cover longer distances. (This is especially the case if staying in a centrally located hotel.)

Just be sure to pack a comfy pair of walking shoes — but don’t wait to break them in until you arrive! (Seriously, if you’re packing a new pair of shoes, start breaking them in a few days before arriving.)

Along with 24-hour service, the MTA subway and bus system is still very affordable.

Subway prices: One ride: $2.75; 7-day unlimited pass: $33

Should you buy an unlimited pass? That depends. If you plan to walk everywhere, it may not be worth the investment, but if you plan to take at least 12 rides over the course of the week, it pays for itself. The more you ride, the more you save!

Taxis vs subways

Public transit is almost always cheaper for a single traveler than taking a taxi, Uber, or other private cars. One ride in a taxi or Uber might cost you the same amount as a seven-day MTA pass ($32), good for unlimited rides on all subway and bus lines.

Check out which MetroCard might be right for your trip . That said, if you’re traveling in a group, add it up. Sometimes a short ride in a taxi might actually be cheaper than paying for multiple Metro fares (at $2.75 each).

Citibike bike share program

Intrepid travelers might want to hop on a bike during their New York adventure. There are a surprising amount of bike lanes in the city, and you can’t beat a cruise along the Hudson or through Central Park.

New York’s bike share program, Citibike , is a good alternative to bike rentals with docking stations all over Manhattan below 59th Street. Note that short-term members (one week and one day passes) may take unlimited 30-minute rides, while annual memberships allow unlimited 45-minute rides. The new-ish electric bikes cost a little more, but you can cover much more ground on a ride around Central Park or along the Hudson River.

Citibike prices (for unlimited 30-minute rides): Single ride: $3.50; One-day pass: $15; One year pass: $179 ( more pricing info )

Attractions and sightseeing

There’s simply no way around the fact that tickets to many of the city’s most popular sights are expensive. For example, you’ll have to shell out some serious cash to ride up to the top of the Empire State Building (starting at $42), One World Observatory  (starting at $43) and Top of the Rock  ($36).

But there are some attractions that will never cost a dime. These include:

• Staten Island Ferry: Enjoy a free skyline view from the Staten Island Ferry, which runs between Battery Park and Staten Island 24-hours a day and is always free. It’s also a lovely (and free) way to float past the Statue of Liberty, instead of paying for a pricey harbor cruise.

• Free admission to the museums. Keep an eye out for free nights at the museums.  MoMA is usually free on Friday nights but that is suspended due to COVID-19. The Guggenheim is free on Saturday evenings from 4 to 6 pm. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is pay-what-you-wish for New York State residents only.

• Brooklyn Bridge: Strolling over the historic wooden walkway of this famous bridge is a rite of passage for many tourists — and for good reason with incredible views of New York. Go in the evening when the crowds are a little smaller and the city lights start to glow.

• Times Square: The self-proclaimed “Crossroads of the World” can be a bit dizzying and dazzling. You can feel the energy of the city all around you as the gigantic signs light up the streets and all sorts of characters (and plenty of tourists) roam around. This is free entertainment at its zaniest. (Just don’t expect to pose for a photo with Elmo without paying.)

• Central Park: Perhaps New York’s most visited attraction, Central Park is free to roam, meander, picnic, jog, cycle and doze. The park is also home to free events throughout the year, including its popular Summerstage and Shakespeare in the Park performances (see under “Entertainment” below).

• Walking Tours:  Do you love history? To see a side of the city you might miss on your own, we suggest taking a tour with Bowery Boys Walks . Explore the history of Broadway, Central Park, Greenwich Village, 19th-century NoHo, and the World’s Fair site in Queens. They also offer virtual tours , so you can visit NYC without leaving your couch.

Should you get a tourist pass?

If you prefer to be bused about with other tourists from one iconic sight to the next, buying a tourist sightseeing pass could be a good deal. However, if you prefer a more relaxed schedule, with time to stroll around town with a few attractions thrown in here or there, it will probably be better to pay-as-you-go.

The New York Pass is not cheap, but you can easily get your money’s worth if you plan on visiting several popular sites like Top of the Rock, MoMA or a Circle Line Cruise in one day. It gives you admission to 80 New York attractions and allows you to jump to the front of the line for some of them. However, with a price tag of $117 (1 day), $180 (3 days), $234 (5 days) $270 (7 days) for adults, you really need to stay busy in order to get your money’s worth. (For a bit more, the New York Pass also offers a hop on/hop off bus service.)

Saving on meals

Eating out in New York on a budget is getting trickier with each passing year. Even a classic New York diner can set you back a quite a bit if you’re not careful. Once you throw in drinks and the expected 15-20% tip , the bill can be quite a shock.

As a general rule, try to avoid dining in the touristy neighborhoods, especially Times Square. This part of town is filled with overpriced chain eateries, many of which you can find in Anytown, USA. Escape Midtown and head instead to more residential neighborhoods to find budget-friendly eats. Some suggestions:

• Chinatown is packed with budget eateries. Follow your nose, heading south of Canal Street on Mott and Elizabeth Streets.

•  Hit up one of the city’s famous pizzerias . A “pie”, salad and carafe of wine won’t set you back that much, and you’ll get a taste of real New York. (See John’s of Bleecker, below.)

• Bagel shops make for incredibly cheap and delicious breakfasts or lunches that you won’t find anywhere else. (See Ess-a-Bagel, below.)

• And don’t overlook the street carts . While many sell mediocre pretzels and hot dogs, others offer tasty meat over rice dishes that are filling meals for around $7. Don’t know which one to buy from? Hint: If you see a long line of office workers, that’s always a good sign!

Favorite budget-friendly restaurants

Some of our favorite authentic New York dining experiences that won’t break the bank include:

John’s of 12th Street East Village (202 E 12th St) Old-school Italian dining at its best with atmosphere, good prices, and great food.

Veselka East Village (144 2nd Ave) Classic 24-hour diner serving authentic (and delicious) Ukrainian food since 1954.

John’s of Bleecker Greenwich Village (278 Bleecker St) Making tasty coal oven pizza since 1929 in a no-frills space. No slices!

Ess-a-Bagel Midtown (831 3rd Ave) The bagels are the real deal at this Midtown shop with long lines and low prices.

Margon Times Square (136 W 46th St) Heaping plates of homemade Cuban food for under $10.

Nom Wah Tea Parlor Chinatown (13 Doyers St) Oldest dim sum restaurant in New York with fantastic dumplings and a vintage feel.

Papaya King East Village / Upper East Side (3 St. Mark’s Place/ 179 E 86th St) New York staple dishing out grilled hot dogs with onion relish and sauerkraut.

Sylvia’s Harlem (328 Malcolm X Blvd) Famous soul food spot with affordable bills and a gospel Sunday brunch.

Taim NoLita / West Village (45 Spring St / 222 Waverly Pl) Fancy falafel shop with unique and tasty flavors plus wallet-friendly prices.

Entertainment

Want to see the hottest hit Broadway show or a world-class artist in concert? Well, you’re coming to the right city! Here’s how to save:

• Broadway : There’s no need to pay full price for those seats. The TKTS discount ticket booths (at Times Square, South Street Seaport and Downtown Brooklyn) offer same-day discounts of up to 50% for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. If you’re a bit more flexible, you can also try your luck with a show’s lottery or standing room ticket, or book in advance through a site like Broadway Box with discount codes. (Read more about these, and several other tips for saving on Broadway tickets .)

• Off-Broadway : Also, why not stray a bit from the big theaters in Midtown? Opt for an off-Broadway performance instead for a more affordable and sometimes more interesting experience.

• Opera : The Metropolitan Opera releases rush tickets online for $25 and cheap standing room tickets at the box office on the day of the performance.

• Music clubs / Jazz : There are also lots of music clubs hosting shows with no cover. Pick up a copy of Time Out New York (free every Wednesday) for full listings.

• Summer events : There are plenty of free shows and concerts to enjoy around the city during the balmy summer nights. From Shakespeare in the Park performances to Central Park’s Summerstage concerts and outdoor movie screenings at Bryant Park , there’s something free going on almost every night.

Your tips for saving in New York

Have a tip to share for saving on your trip to New York City? Tell us how you save in the comments section below!

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About the author.

Craig is a New York-based writer and tour guide who has worked with many travel publishers including Not For Tourists, Frommer's, and Google. Now he is an editor for EuroCheapo and manager of Bowery Boys Walks . When he's not out exploring the five boroughs for his blog , he's dreaming up plans for his next trip across the pond.

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4 thoughts on “Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget”

Lov u sight just got thru readin tips on cheap eats off time square and looking @ hotels thank u from H-Town plan on goin in December 😎

I went to New York on a budget last year and I saved a lot on accommodation since I stayed in a hostel. New York City may be known as the most expensive city in USA, but there’s also no shortage of free things to do. I already visited some museums, Time Square and Statue of Liberty. I also went to a lot of diners and clubs and I watched free concerts at Central Park after checking out the NYC Parks website. By the way, I found a website listing free events in New York which is great because I didn’t have much of a budget. I think FreeEventFinder.com might be useful to people also visiting New York who are looking for free things to do.

Crag, This is a great guide to NY. I love it and you have mentioned all we need to know to travel to NY. I didnt even realize that the hotel price per night would be like $300. Yikes, What about Airbnb?

Hi Marc, Thanks for the compliments! Airbnb is definitely an option and I use it sometimes when traveling, but it can be hard to find private rooms in central locations in NYC (like Midtown, etc) for under $200/night, unlike some of the independent hotels we recommend. It all depends on what kind of experience you are looking for. If you are going to be touring around the city a lot, a good location is key to saving time and money. If you want to stay farther out in the neighborhoods of the five boroughs, then yes, you can find some good deals on Airbnb. Just be prepared to spend a bit more time traveling on the subway. We also like having the convenience of a hotel front desk check-in, luggage storage, and the city right outside your door.

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The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

Our new york travel tips for first time visitors.

Are you traveling to New York for the first time and want to get an overview of what you should pay attention to? Here, I show you step by step the most important information you need to know for your New York trip. There’s a lot to see and do in New York, from world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building to a wide selection of unique museums and New York-style foods that you should definitely try.

You may also like:

Where in new york should you stay.

• The 33 Absolute Best New York Attractions
• New York on a Budget

Now, sit back and enjoy our New York Travel Guide to help you have a wonderful time in New York City!

By the way, we now have over 1,600 spots in the city on our site. So, if you’re looking for suitable tours, bars, restaurants, and awesome spots to visit, then you’re in the right place!

Everything you need!

Hello you 👋 Here you will find everything you need for your New York trip!

These are our best New York Travel Tips for first time visitors:

Table of Contents

New York at a Glance

Best time to travel to new york.

Visiting New York is worthwhile at any time of year, but I personally like the warm months best. Summer in New York can be very hot and humid. So, for many, the best times to visit New York is April and June, and September and October.

Spending Christmas in New York or enjoying the pre-Christmas season in New York City is also a wonderful experience.  The ice rinks are open, the city is beautifully decorated, and, if it snows, the dream vacation at wintertime is perfect!

Paying in New York

You can pay for almost everything with your credit card, even the smallest amounts. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, stores, restaurants, and bars. Don’t have one yet? Then, check out the best credit card to have in the USA here.

New York for First Time Visitors: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip (70+ pages)

Best Way to Travel in New York

Finding your way around New York is quite easy, even if it doesn’t look like it at first. The streets’ checkerboard pattern makes finding your way around easy. These are the best ways to get around New York:

Metro / Subway: If you have longer distances ahead of you, then the Subway is your friend, because here you can travel really cheap. It’s easy to use! The MetroCard is available at every Subway station. You can buy single rides or the popular MetroCard for 7 days; that way you can travel for a week in New York at a fixed price. You can learn more about using the  Metrocard in New York here.

Taxi:  In New York, you can choose between the Yellow Cab and Uber. You can check out our tips and all the information you need to know in our following blog:  Taxi in New York City .

By bike: With many of the New York sightseeing passes (you can find out more about this budget tip in my New York Pass comparison ), the bike rental is included. We ourselves really love using New York’s Citi Bikes. This city bike program has over 1,000 stations throughout New York City, and it’s super-cheap. We’ll show you how it works in the Citi Bike New York article.

On Foot: You’ll be surprised how much walking you’ll do in New York. After all, there’s something to see on every corner. So be sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Where to Stay in New York?

Which neighborhood is best for you depends on several things: your interests, how close you want to be to the attractions and what your travel budget is. In the image below, I’ve drawn you my favorite neighborhoods of New York including the main attractions nearby.

And, on the subject of safety: In all of Manhattan, the Bronx , Brooklyn, and large parts of Queens, you don’t have to worry about being out and about in the evening. New York City is one of the safest cities in the world!

More than 100 hotels and over 70 neighborhoods to choose from –and after just 4 quick questions, I’ll show you which hotels in New York are best suited for you!

Where Should you Stay in New York?

Manhattan – it doesn’t get more central than this: Manhattan is the most famous borough of them all. Plus, it contains 95% of all the attractions New York is known for. Everything is within easy reach, and you are right in the middle of it all. On the other hand, the hotels are a bit more expensive than in Brooklyn or Queens .

Here, you can find my 33 hotel tips for Manhattan .

Brooklyn – urban and relaxed: For a long time, Brooklyn was the insider’s tip: now it’s “completely” normal neighborhoods. However, you’ll quickly notice one thing: life is much more normal, because it’s more of a residential area. It’s super relaxed, pleasant, and just as diverse as Manhattan. Above all, you can enjoy the Manhattan skyline from here!

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Brooklyn .

Queens – the new trendy neighborhood: Queens is a bit more “normal” than Brooklyn is, but, lately, we’ve noticed that it is getting more and more gentrified. The hotels in Long Island City (not to be confused with Long Island!) are especially popular because they are cheaper compared to Manhattan—and they have a perfect connection to the Subway, which makes Queens a great alternative to Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Queens .

What to See in New York?

One thing to know in advance: just because there is so much to see in New York, a little planning makes absolute sense. For highlights like the Empire State Building ( here ), the Edge Hudson Yards observation deck ( here ) or the One World Observatory ( here ), I recommend buying the tickets online in advance. This will not only save you waiting time on site, but you can also be sure that you will actually be able to visit your desired sights.

👉 These are our 33 best attractions in New York .

These are my tips after more than 20 visits to New York:

• Observation decks:  New York City has no less than five (!) major observation decks to offer, and each one is a dream in itself. My two favorites are The Edge Hudson Yards and the One World Observatory , because from here you have a sensational view of New York from above and you can see the Empire State Building . From the end of 2021, another cool option will be added with the glass One Vanderbilt . One more thing about the Empire State Building: It’s the most visited observation deck in New York, so it’s always busy. Avoid the crowds in the morning – and if you really want to go to the Empire State Building in the evening, choose Thursday, Friday or Saturday. During those times, a saxophonist plays on the observation deck. Important: book the Skip-the-Line-Tickets (you can do that here). Then, you can easily save 1-2 hours of waiting time!
• Visit the Statue of Liberty : The trip from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty is super-popular. To save yourself long waiting times, make sure you take the first ferry of the day. Here, you can find the best Statue of Liberty Cruises right now.
• Definitely take a boat tour , because seeing New York from the water is like being on vacation. Choices range from the free Staten Island Ferry or the NYC Ferry ($2.90 each way) to sailing tours (gorgeous) and the classic sightseeing tours that are included with all major New York passes.
• Walk along the High Line from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards .
• Visit Times Square in the evening – that’s when it’s at its most impressive.
• Relax in Central Park or Bryant Park .
• Plan a maximum of three attractions per day . After all, you don’t want any sightseeing stress.

The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

10 FREE Things to Do in New York City

The 36 Absolute Best Museums in New York

The 9 best observation decks in new york city, new york budget tip.

With the right New York sightseeing pass , you can easily save a lot of money on up to 100 tours and attractions. To find out if a New York Pass is worth it (or not), check out our free New York Pass Advisor to find out which New York Pass is best for you.

And on this page you’ll find our New York Pass comparison .

Itineraries in New York

You don’t know where to start? Then let us inspire you! We have some suggestions for you. By the way, the most popular is the 1 week New York itinerary .

The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

What to Do in New York?

For me, an unforgettable New York trip includes the following things in addition to visiting the main sights:

Go Shopping

New York is also really good for shopping. There are many small shopping spots and addresses, but also the big brands can often be found with flagship stores. If that’s not enough, you can go shopping in one of the outlets and flea markets of New York.

The best shopping areas in New York are Broadway, SoHo , Chelsea, the Meatpacking District, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. And, of course, 5th Avenue!

Avoid Times Square for shopping!

A real tourist trap are the stores around Times Square – they are not only overpriced, but also the quality is not right in most cases!

Here you can find our Guide to Shopping in New York  with everything you need to know!

Shopping in New York: The Ultimate Guide 2024

The Best Outlets in NYC – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

The 15 Best Flea Markets in NYC – Shop Vintage and Rare to Find Items

Shopping in SoHo NYC: The 25 Best Stores Right Now

Visit a rooftop bar.

I love the rooftop bars of New York . You can sit and relax, enjoy a sensational view of the city and listen to relaxing music. All this mixes with the so-typical sounds of the city in the background, and if you have something delicious to drink or eat on top of that, it can’t get any better! You can see where we like to go in our article on the 43 best rooftop bars in New York .

By the way, if you want to experience the view of New York when you get up early in the morning, check out my list of the 26 best New York hotels with a view !

Visit a Broadway Show

New York is known for its many musicals and Broadway shows – most of which are performed in the Theatre District around Times Square. Here are our tips on the  best Broadway Shows in New York . If you already know which Broadway show you want to see, I recommend ordering the tickets in advance ( here ). If you’re still flexible, you can buy leftover tickets at TKTS in Times Square, for example.

Attend a Parade or Special Event

OK, hotel is booked, attractions are on the list, the myNY itinerary is ready, shopping spots are sighted and the first restaurants and bars are also noted. Now comes the last step on the list to the perfect travel planning for New York: the events, parades, and holidays.

They are the icing on the cake of every New York vacation and, therefore, could not be missed in our New York Travel Guide! Just check out our monthly specials that are relevant to you:  January , February , March , April , May , June , July , August , September , October , November and December .

Enjoying the Gastro Scene (in the Evening)

Now comes one of my favorite parts of planning our New York trips: the city’s many bars, restaurants, rooftop bars, and food markets. In our travel guide and insider guides on the website, we put a lot of emphasis on finding the best gastro spots and rooftop bars. So, feel free to browse through them, and if you like something, just add it to your myNY itinerary. Just click on the heart symbol, and you’re done!

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

The 12 Best Food Markets in NYC

The 23 Best Waterfront Restaurants & Bars in New York Right Now

The Best Burger in New York City

Marvel at grand central station.

Be sure to take the time to see Grand Central Station . Not only is it the setting for many series and movies set in New York, it’s also very impressive and has a fantastic ceiling!

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Walking through DUMBO and Soho

The neighborhoods of DUMBO in Brooklyn and Soho in Manhattan are among the most iconic neighborhoods in the city and are fascinating for their combination of old New York with new New York.

Things to Do in DUMBO

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

What to eat in new york.

What should I start with first? With the New York pizza slice, the New York cheesecake, the wonderful pastrami sandwiches at Katz’ Delicatessen, or at the Pastrami Queen? In addition, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Luger are two really good steak restaurants waiting for you and if you want to eat really good burgers: go to J.G. Melon, the hidden Burger Joint or Shake Shack!

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

I hope my New York Travel Guide helped you plan your first trip to New York. Was there anything missing? Feel free to write it in the comments!

I wish you a wonderful time in New York City!

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

7 Tips to See New York City on the Cheap

Whilst dreams of visiting afar are often highest and most frequent on any travellers list, some of the world's most spectacular and adventure-filled cities lie right in our own backyard. New York is the poster child for such a description, and is one of our favourite cities to explore. Whether you've come here before or are tickled to add the Big Apple to your wish list, New York never disappoints.

Here the vibe seeps in excitement. NYC is a city where people flock to chase their dreams, whether acting on the big screen or simply chasing a more eclectic life. Without further ado, here's tips to exploring one of the world's most interesting mega-cities: New York City!

1. Cut flight and accommodation costs

Flights and accommodation are the biggest expenses on any New York City visit. Fortunately, there are international domestic airline sales as well as error fares on websites like Airfare Watchdog . and Secret Flying . You can also easily use Skyscanner to search for flights from your own city (select whole month for dates to visualize cheaper fares in green). For more tips on cheap flight booking, check out our article How to Book the Cheapest Flight Possible to Anywhere .

Here's what we recommend for finding cheap accommodation in the big apple:

• Great for authentic-feeling travel
• Much cheaper than most hotel options
• Private rooms often cheaper than hostel dorms if 2+ people
• $25 sign-up coupon available here
• Mystery deals are great for big savings on high-end hotels
• Downside: it's a mystery what you'll actually get
• Tip: Mystery deals can often be figured out before booking via BetterBidding

Take note, if you're two or more people, hostel dorms often aren't your cheapest option . You can get a private room in an apartment via services like AirBNB (or even a private room in a hostel) for fairly cheap, so it pays to research in advance. When you can, book ahead. NYC is an expensive city – do not try the “wait and see” approach on accommodation!

Note : we've done both Hotwire mystery deals and AirBNB and had great experiences with each. We loved sharing an apartment with our AirBNB hosts (a dancer & a model – does it get more NYC than that?!) in a gorgeous high-ceiling apartment in a neighbourhood oozing with character. We've also scored a great hotel in the financial district downtown. Both very different and fun NYC experiences!

2. Visit the city's free attractions

If you're dropping dollars in New York on attraction after attraction, you're doing it wrong . There are SO  many free iconic sights to enjoy here, that you needn't bleed cash just to “see” the city. Not to mention, it is quite walkable, though when your legs tire, simply give 'em a rest and enjoy its quintessential public transit.

For free activities happening daily, weekly, monthly and on the regular, check out Time Out's listings . Here's a few attractions that are always free :

• Central Park (often has free events going on & great for picnics)
• Times Square – be sure to go at night to take in its neon buzz!
• Staten Island Ferry – a great way to get water views of the Statue of Liberty for FREE! Not to mention, you'll skip waiting in long lines & security scans to enter it
• Markets – there are plenty of food, farmer's, artisan, craft & flea markets which are free to wander (we loved the Brooklyn Fleas & Artists and Brooklyn Night Bazaar)
• Take the  Governor's Island ferry  (offers great city skyline views)
• Learn about America's history in the  National Museum of the American Indian
• Do a free city walking tour (you “pay what you wish” at the end)
• Do a free brewery tour – several NYC breweries offer free tours, some even give free beers (heck yes!)
• New York Public Library (truly stunning, it's no wonder many movies have been filmed there!)
• Brooklyn – riddled with quirky shops, cafes & bars, this part of NYC is just great to explore by foot (it also gives great water views of the skyline)
• Walk the Brooklyn Bridge (great city views)
• High line park (a park built on an old train track – awesome for pictures!)

3. See shows on the cheap

If you're flexible with which shows you see and when, you can save as much as 50% off on same-day tickets both for on and off broadway shows. Simply show up at the official Last Minute Ticket booths to see what is playing that night. We've done this on two visits, the first time we saw Avenue Q (AWESOME!) and the classic Chicago.

4. Visit galleries & museums on free or discount days

Many galleries and museums in NYC have free entry on certain days & times. A few of the most popular attractions with free entry days include:

• Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) ( FREE Fridays 4-8PM)
• New York Botanical Garden ( FREE all-day Wednesdays, 9-10AM Saturdays)
• Museum of Moving Image ( FREE Fridays 4-8PM)
• 9-11 Memorial Museum ( FREE Tuesdays 5PM-close)
• Bronx Zoo ( FREE all-day Wednesdays)
• American Museum of Natural History ( FREE in its last hour, otherwise always pay-as-you-wish)
• Brooklyn Museum ( FREE first Saturday of the month with DJs & wine from 5-11PM)

Note: free days/times subject to change – check attraction websites to confirm free days/times before your visit. 

A comprehensive list of museums that are always free or have discount days can be found here .  Current free exhibitions and show listings that are temporary can be found here .

5. Get activity discounts with a city pass

6. Find cheap or free events

TimeOut is my favourite resource for current free events and shows. Throughout the year there's always  festivals and events going on. Be sure to check and see what's happening on your visit, or you could be missing on some serious fun – NYC is ALL about arts, creativity and events!

On our last visit we stumbled on this epic party under the Brooklyn Bridge – completely free and filled with pumping tunes and affordable beer on tap.

7. Eat cheap!

Cheap eats in nyc.

You are in the good ol' USA, so cheap food isn't all that hard to find. Here's some quick options for dining cheap in NYC:

• Groupon  and Travelzoo are GREAT for bargains when you do want to dine out for a nicer meal. We did this multiple times for a nice pizza & beer dinner and other meals out, I highly recommend at least checking.
• 99 cent pizza (plentiful!)
• Hot dog stands are common throughout the city, though I don't recommend this (or pizza!) as a staple sustenance on your trip. (Papaya King is  a definite mentionable though).
• After something fancier? The Big Apple even has affordable Michelin Star restaurants – check our list of cheapest Michelin dining spots here !
• Food trucks offer fairly cheap, filling snacks from kebabs to hamburgers to gourmet ice cream. There are many higher-end ones popping up about the city, we had some epic homemade tacos at one in Brooklyn
• NYC super-stuffed bagels are a good budget-friendly brunch option
• Do a  DIY $1 Chinatown eating walk   – we did this & it was a great way to tour and “sample” an array of Chinatown's $1 snacks!
• Time Out  and Eater have comprehensive city-wide lists of NYC's cheap eats, I highly recommend sifting through them (it's how I discovered the $1 Chinatown eats!)

Thrifty tip : If going out for a big meal, g o out for lunch instead of dinner  where possible, as it will be cheaper & lunch specials are common.

DIY Food Options

Even if you don't have access to a kitchen (or simply don't want to cook, understandable for short trips!), make a pitstop for ready-to-eat goods such as sushi rolls or premade grocery sandwiches for picnic or on-the-go goods.

Breakfast:  we always bring a coffee filter , portable mugs , and a small bag of coffee so we can brew our own java each morning. We also try to buy room-temp foods like fruits or muffins that we can keep in our room & eat each morning if we don't have a fridge.

Lunch:  we usually carry a small utensil set or spork , so we can easily pop into grocery stores and grab foods like yogurts, sandwiches, hummus & carrots, cheeses, breads and such on the go. It at least leaves the option of a picnic anytime. We bring refillable Platypus bottles to curb waste and senseless dollars on water bottles. Fountains are plentiful in NYC, in fact someone has even mapped them out here  and the city has a free fountain locator app !

And there you have it, some quick tips for seeing this epic city on the cheap. This is a city that should most certainly be on any wanderluster bucket list. Happy saving!

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New York Flights

New york airports.

Looking to sink your teeth into the Big Apple? Book flights to New York and choose between three nearby airports: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and John F. Kennedy Intl. Airport (JFK) . Newark Airport is located in nearby New Jersey, roughly 18 miles southwest of Manhattan. This airport includes three terminals with a variety of food options and shops, along with several charging stations. Meanwhile, LaGuardia sits just east of NYC. It features four terminals with cafes, restaurants, and concession stands. As for JFK airport, it’s located in Queens, 18 miles southeast of New York City. With eight terminals, JFK airport provides cafes, bars, restaurants, and retail shops.

Airport Transportation

There are a number of ground transportation options when you have flights to New York. At Newark Airport, the Newark Airport Bus services the terminals, while AirTrain connects Newark Airport to the NJ Transit and the Amtrak train. JFK airport also relies on the AirTrain, and LaGuardia Airport offers the NYC Airporter shuttle. Several MTA New York City buses have routes to JFK and LaGuardia Airport, too.

Regardless of which airport you’re flying into, you can reserve New York car rentals right here, and have a vehicle waiting upon your arrival. Alternatively, all three of these NY airports also provide taxi, limousine, and shuttle service.

New York Activities

You’ll never run out of things to do in New York . From the dazzling performances on Broadway to the stoic statue of Lady Liberty, this enchanting city offers it all. While you’re in town, picnic in lush Central Park, gobble down some of the city’s famous pizza, and explore the captivating masterpieces at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Marvel at the bright city lights in Times Square, view the cityscape from Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, and watch the sunset from the Brooklyn Bridge. Then after a day of city adventures, rest your head at one of the best hotels in New York .

Planning Your Trip

It’s always a good time to book New York flights. Summer brings balmy weather and sunshine, while winter dusts the city with snow. September and November bring comfortable temperatures between the 60s and 70s F, but Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade does attract the crowds. March through May tends to be slightly cooler and wetter than autumn, but, nonetheless, it’s still a pleasant time to visit the city.

Whether you decide to travel to the city when the lights twinkle during the holiday season or when July 4th fireworks illuminate the Hudson River, allow Expedia.com to match you up with the hottest discounts. We provide nonstop cheap tickets to New York, so you can spend more on your activities and less on your flight. Check out our mobile booking app, where you can browse our travel arrangements and score exclusive deals. Book your cheap flights to New York with us, so you can “wake up in a city that never sleeps.”

Frequently asked questions

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you’ll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don’t forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.
• Check carefully that you don’t have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your clothing choices. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets chilly. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you for it.
• It’s likely you’ve heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are many ways to reduce your risk. Wear compression socks or tights, stay hydrated and keep your legs and feet moving. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.
• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass close by. They’re the first things you’ll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won’t be allowed in the cabin.

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Cheap flights to Niagara Falls, NY from $153

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a cheapflights user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight departing on 5/15. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., flights to niagara falls, ny in 2024, find the latest flights to niagara falls in 2024, with up-to-date prices and availability. in the last 7 days, cheapflights users made a total of 3,125,290 searches and data was last updated on april 14, 2024., cheap flights to niagara falls, ny in april & may 2024, discover affordable flights and deals to niagara falls in april and may 2024. in the last 7 days, cheapflights users made a total of 3,125,290 searches and data was last updated on april 14, 2024., niagara falls, ny 2024 flight deals, explore flight deals for niagara falls, ny in 2024, offering the best prices and options to suit your preferences. in the last 7 days, cheapflights users made a total of 3,125,290 searches and data were last updated on april 14, 2024., one-way flights to niagara falls, ny, explore one-way flight options to niagara falls, ny for greater flexibility in your travel plans. find up-to-date pricing and availability for one-way flights. in the last 7 days, cheapflights users made a total of 3,125,290 searches and data was last updated on april 14, 2024., find flights to niagara falls within your budget, locate flights to niagara falls that fit your budget, with regularly updated fares and availability. in the last 7 days, cheapflights users made a total of 3,125,290 searches and data was last updated on april 14, 2024..

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Chicago O'Hare Intl Niagara Falls

Chicago O'Hare Intl

1 stop 11h 59m

1 stop 28h 06m

3 stops 30h 15m

2 stops 14h 41m

2 stops 47h 37m

2 stops 30h 22m

3 stops 28h 14m

2 stops 21h 01m

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Average price of flights to Niagara Falls by month

Plan your trip to niagara falls by taking into account the cheapest months to travel. the average price of a one-way flight to niagara falls is currently $206 while a round-trip flight costs $374. price data was last updated on april 7, 2024., temperature and rainfall in niagara falls by month, plan your trip to niagara falls by taking into account the average temperature and rainfall totals by month..

If weather is an important factor for your trip to Niagara Falls, use this chart to help with planning. For those seeking warmer temperatures, July is the ideal time of year to visit, when temperatures reach an average of 71.6 F. Travelers looking to avoid the cold should look outside of January, when temperatures are typically at their lowest (around 23.0 F).

When is the best time to book a flight to Niagara Falls?

Use this chart to determine the optimal time to book a round-trip flight to niagara falls. price data was last updated on january 28, 2024., booking 29 days in advance of your planned departure date is, on average, the best time to get cheap flights to niagara falls. the general trend is that the closer you book to the departure date, the more expensive your flight will be., when is the cheapest time to fly to niagara falls, use this chart to determine the cheapest time to fly round-trip to niagara falls. price data was last updated on april 7, 2024., reviews of airlines servicing niagara falls, get insights into the airlines that provide service to niagara falls. read reviews, discover amenities, and learn about the overall travel experience offered by airlines. use this information to make informed decisions when choosing an airline for your flight to niagara falls. reviews last updated april 14, 2024..

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Delayed because of crew missing stuck on tarmac at arrival for a full hour this delayed my trip 8 hours this caused me to miss my rental car they were closed for the day when I got there worst flight experience of my life

The two primary airports for visiting Niagara Falls are Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) and Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG). BUF, just 30 minutes away, provides a wide array of domestic and international flights, making it a convenient hub for travelers. IAG is closer to the falls and offers a more localized option with limited but growing flight services. Both airports provide easy access to the natural. Choosing which airport to use depends on your preferences regarding flight options and travel priorities.

Bringing your passport to Niagara Falls is a good idea for a more flexible travel experience. The falls straddle the US-Canada border, allowing you to explore both countries seamlessly. A passport ensures you can cross the international border, providing access to attractions on both sides. You can visit the American Falls and Horseshoe Falls. Having your passport also opens up the opportunity to explore the charming Canadian town of Niagara Falls and its unique perspectives of the falls and other attractions. With a passport in hand, you maximize your options for exploration of this iconic natural wonder.

For efficient business travel to Niagara Falls, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck to speed up security checks and opt for a carry-on to save time at baggage claim. Prearrange transportation using hotel shuttles if available. Ensure your devices are charged, and pack the necessary chargers and adapters.

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What should i pack for a trip to niagara falls.

Niagara Falls experiences four distinct seasons, so consider the time of year and your intended activities when packing. Include weather-appropriate clothing, like coats, hats, and gloves, in the winter and lightweight clothing in the summer. Layers are a good idea for varying temperatures in the fall and spring. Waterproof jackets and comfortable shoes for walking ensure you are prepared for outdoor adventures. Pack personal items like toiletries, medications, and any necessary documents. Remember a camera to capture the beautiful waterfall views. If you plan on exploring the falls up close, consider a poncho to stay dry. Pack snacks, a reusable water bottle, and a small first aid kit. Research specific attractions and their requirements, ensuring a well-prepared and enjoyable trip to Niagara Falls.

What things are there to do in Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls offers a variety of activities, whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family vacation. Take in the awe-inspiring falls from different viewpoints, such as the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour or the Journey Behind the Falls excursion. Explore Niagara Parks that feature botanical gardens and hiking trails. Enjoy the vibrant Clifton Hill entertainment district, home to casinos, arcades, and unique attractions. Discover the Niagara SkyWheel for panoramic views, or visit the Skylon Tower observation deck. Wine enthusiasts can explore nearby vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Immerse yourself in history at the Niagara Falls History Museum or try zip lining or Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours. The area offers a blend of natural wonders, entertainment, and cultural experiences for all.

Can I take public transportation from the airport to Niagara Falls?

If you arrive at Niagara Falls Airport (IAG), you’ll be less than 10 miles from the center of town. You can reach the city by taking the line 155 bus from the airport stop towards downtown. The journey will take about 35 minutes. If your flight arrives at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), your trip will be longer. You can take the #24 Genesee Metro Bus from Buffalo Airport's Arrival level (turn left at Crosswalk 1b) to Downtown Buffalo. From the Metropolitan Transportation Center at 181 Ellicott St., take the #40 Downtown Niagara Falls Metro Bus to Niagara Falls. This budget-friendly transportation option allows you to travel conveniently between Buffalo, downtown, and Niagara Falls, providing easy access to the iconic destination at an affordable cost.

What does IAG mean?

This is just an IATA (International Air Transport Association) code. IATA codes are used in aviation to identify and differentiate airports. That’s why a Niagara Falls Airport flight would often be abbreviated as a IAG flight.

What airport do you fly into for flights to Niagara Falls?

Booking a flight to Niagara Falls (IAG) is your only option if you intend on flying to Niagara Falls. It is only a 5.7 mi journey from Niagara Falls to Niagara Falls’s city center.

Can I find cheaper flights to Niagara Falls if I am willing to have layovers?

Yes, flights with layovers are often cheaper than direct flights. Keep an eye out for flight deals to Niagara Falls on Cheapflights that require 1 or 2 stops for potential cost savings.

What is the best airline to fly to Niagara Falls?

Based on reviews from Cheapflights users, JetBlue is rated the highest out of the airlines that fly to Niagara Falls.

What is the cheapest airport to fly to in Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls Airport is currently the cheapest airport to fly to in Niagara Falls. One-way flights to Niagara Falls Airport typically cost $81, while round-trip flights cost around $97.

How much is a round-trip flight to Niagara Falls?

A round-trip flight to Niagara Falls will typically cost around $161, however they can be found for as little as $97.

Where does the fastest flight to Niagara Falls depart from?

For those looking to save time traveling to Niagara Falls, Detroit offers the quickest one-way flight (8 hours 5 minutes).

Which airport is closest to Rockaway Beach?

If being close to Niagara Falls is important to you, you’ll want to land at New York John F Kennedy Intl Airport.

Does Niagara Falls Airport have rental cars?

Yes. Those touching down at Niagara Falls Airport can take advantage of the rental car services offered upon their arrival.

Are there hotels close to Niagara Falls Airport?

Yes. Niagara Falls Airport has hotels nearby for those requiring accommodations. Budget Inn & Suites at the Falls - Niagara is the closest property to Niagara Falls Airport (0.0 mi away from Niagara Falls Airport).

Browse thousands of different options on Cheapflights for your next trip

Toggle through the tabs below to find thousands of options on cheapflights for your next trip., popular flight searches, check out other popular destinations found by fellow travelers in 2024, search flights to niagara falls by cabin class, find flights to niagara falls, based on your preferred cabin class, be it economy, premium economy, business, or first class., book a flight to one of these trending destinations, user searches for flights to these destinations increased 20% or more in the past 90 days compared to other destinations, book with flexibility, travel smart.

More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

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Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here, using the exchange rate on the date of publication of 1.26.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.51 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

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Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.48 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.140) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $74.43 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.56) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.51
• Cape Town, South Africa - $68.48
• Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
• Tokyo, Japan - $74.43
• Algarve, Portugal - $75.33
• Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.36
• Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.73
• Kuta, Bali, Indonesia - $79.79
• Marmaris, Turkey - $83.27
• Paphos, Cyprus - $92.49
• Penang, Malaysia - $93.98
• Phuket, Thailand - $97.97
• Delhi, India - $98.05
• Costa del Sol, Spain - $102.67
• Montego Bay, Jamaica - $109.76

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10 Of The Absolute Cheapest Places To Retire In New York State

• Retirees can find affordable housing and a low cost of living in cities like Massena, Olean, and Dunkirk in New York State, allowing them to downsize their lifestyles without sacrificing amenities.
• These cities offer a range of amenities such as waterfront views, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and walkable downtowns, making them ideal for retirees seeking a comfortable and active retirement.
• With their natural beauty, community feel, and convenient locations, cities like Watertown, Jamestown, Corning, Hornell, Batavia, and Norwich provide affordable and attractive options for retirees looking to make the most of their retirement budgets.

New York State's most livable cities provide many affordable havens for retirees looking to make the most of their retirement savings. From quaint small towns to historic cities, the Empire State offers numerous cozy towns where retirees can settle down comfortably on a budget. With home prices and rents below national averages, plus low day-to-day living expenses, retirees can easily downsize their lifestyles without giving up amenities.

Whether visitors desire mountains and nature, walkable downtowns, cultural attractions, or just peace and quiet, there are many affordable New York retirement spots that have much to offer. Read on for an overview of amenities, costs, and convincing reasons to spend your golden years in the cheapest places to retire in New York State.

Related: Go Underground: 10 Caves & Caverns You Should Explore In New York State

Located in upstate New York along the northern border with Canada, Massena is one of the most affordable places to retire in New York. Home or rental prices are cheap, providing an opportunity for retirees to buy a nice house without tapping too much into retirement savings.

Massena is located on the St. Lawrence River, which connects the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean. The town offers beautiful riverfront views and water recreation like boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming during the warm months.

In addition to affordable housing, Massena’s cost of living is lower than the national and New York averages. Healthcare is available locally through Massena Hospital and various clinics and medical centers. The downtown area features shops, restaurants, and services, many along Main Street and Broad Street near the riverfront.

The Massena Senior Citizens Center provides activities and resources specifically for retirees and St. Lawrence Centre Mall is another spot to shop, dine, and socialize. The Massena Public Library is a nice community resource as well.

Massena hosts community events like their annual Olde Home Days and Blues Festival. With its natural setting, low costs, and small-town community, Massena is an ideal place to retire affordably.

• Population : 10,109
• Amenities : Riverside park, marina, downtown shopping district, hospital, library
• Average Cost of Living : 10% lower than national average

Situated in Cattaraugus County in western New York, Olean offers small-town living and outdoor recreation along the Allegheny River at an affordable price. With a quaint walkable downtown, impressive architecture, and a prominent university, Olean has cultural and intellectual offerings beyond typical small towns.

Median rental home prices are very reasonable, making Olean one of the cheapest places to retire in New York State, housing-wise.

The overall cost of living is also lower than average here. The Olean General Hospital provides convenient health services with an emergency room, cancer center, and outpatient clinics. The Cattaraugus County Department of the Aging connects seniors with resources on nutrition, transportation, healthcare, and other needs.

For entertainment, Rock City Park is a unique local spot with rock formations, walking paths, and concerts during summer. Griffis Sculpture Park displays over 250 sculptures with hiking trails and woods.

Retirees will appreciate the walkable mix of shops, restaurants, a movie theater, and other businesses in downtown Olean. The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts at St. Bonaventure University hosts performances and exhibits open to the public.

With a small-town feel combined with cultural offerings, outdoor activities, and affordable living, Olean provides great value for retirement in New York. The community is easily accessible, located right off Interstate 86 between Buffalo and Erie, PA.

Olean’s mix of amenities and low cost of living make it attractive for retirees looking to make the most of their retirement budget.

• Population : 13,557
• Amenities : Walkable downtown, university, Allegheny River recreation, performing arts center, senior apartments
• Average Cost of Living : 12% lower than national average

For retirees looking for an affordable lakeside community in western New York, Dunkirk is a great option. Rents and home prices are very low, prices that make it possible for retirees to buy or rent a nice home here without too large of a financial burden or mortgage.

Dunkirk sits right on the shores of Lake Erie, where one can go shipwreck diving and enjoy other aquatic adventures. Sunset views over Lake Erie make for a peaceful backdrop to evenings here.

Dunkirk Pier extends out into the lake, offering space to walk, fish, and watch the sunset. Wright Park has lakefront beaches, playgrounds, tennis courts, hiking trails, and space for community events. Retirees can enjoy walks along the waterfront and activities in the park throughout the year.

Fishing charters are available to take retirees out on Lake Erie for excellent fishing. The grape vineyards in the area allow retirees to enjoy local wines.

In addition to its lake setting, Dunkirk has a revitalized downtown with shops, restaurants, a performing arts center, and a weekly farmers market during summer. The Dunkirk Senior Center provides meals, recreation, and educational programs to keep retirees active and engaged within the community.

Healthcare needs can be met at Brooks Memorial Hospital and various medical offices around town. With extremely affordable housing costs combined with natural beauty and local amenities, Dunkirk allows retirees to make the most of their retirement budgets in a lakeside New York town.

• Population : 12,446
• Amenities: Lakefront beaches and fishing, lighthouse, naval museum, wineries, performing arts center
• Average Cost of Living : 8% lower than national average

Related: 10 Free Things To Do This Fall In New York State

Nestled in western New York’s Cattaraugus County within the Allegany State Park, Salamanca provides a small-town atmosphere amid natural beauty at very affordable prices. With the area’s low cost of living and affordable housing, retirement savings and benefits can be stretched further in Salamanca.

Outdoor recreation and scenic beauty abound in Salamanca’s location within the Allegany State Park (one of the least-crowded state parks for leaf-peeping ). Retirees can enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, hunting, and mountain biking throughout the park.

The park’s 65,000 acres hold forests, trails, streams, and the winding Allegheny River. In town, Rock City Park and Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge also provide outdoor spaces to appreciate nature.

The town itself has a compact, walkable downtown area along Main Street, home to shops, restaurants, and other businesses catering to day-to-day needs. The Seneca Nation of Indians has a strong presence here, with opportunities to learn about Native American heritage and festivals like the annual Seneca Art & Culture Center.

The Salamanca Rail Museum commemorates the area’s history as a major rail hub. Activities tailored to seniors are offered through the Office for the Aging's Salamanca Senior Center. Ellicottville, Olean and other small towns nearby provide additional amenities within a short drive.

Between the affordable housing prices and cost of living plus natural beauty and small-town charm, Salamanca is a desirable yet affordable place for retirees to settle down within western New York’s rolling hills.

• Population : 5,793
• Amenities: Casino, Allegany State Park recreation, downtown shops and restaurants, arts center
• Average Cost of Living : 20% lower than national average

Located in Jefferson County in the northern reaches of New York, Watertown sits along the Black River with a historic downtown and affordability that appeals to retirees. Costs of rentals and median homes are relatively cheap, significantly lower than in many parts of New York, making Watertown one of the cheapest places to retire in New York State.

Watertown offers ample amenities and character for its small size. The quaint downtown has a nice mix of shops, restaurants, and museums showcasing the area's history. The Flower Memorial Library and the North Country Arts Council both provide enriching and engaging programming.

Outdoor recreation abounds nearby, with hiking, fishing, and boating available in the Adirondack Mountains and the underrated and attraction-filled Thousand Islands region . Golf courses, tennis courts, and other facilities provide options right in town as well.

Health systems like Samaritan Medical Center ensure retirees' medical needs can be met locally. Resources for seniors are offered through the Jefferson County Office for the Aging. With a low cost of living and excellent healthcare, Watertown makes it easy to retire comfortably here. The town provides accessibility as well, located right along Interstate 81 just an hour north of Syracuse.

Between the affordability, amenities, and character, Watertown emerges as an appealing retirement destination for those looking for small city living in the northern portion of New York.

• Population : 24,541
• Amenities: Shopping malls, museums, performing arts center, minor league baseball, 1000 Islands recreation.
• Average Cost of Living : 13% lower than national average

Situated in Chautauqua County within western New York’s rolling hills, Jamestown offers retirees historic small-town charm at affordable prices. Rental and median homes cost low, and a favorable housing market helps make Jamestown a bargain option for retirement.

Jamestown is located on the Chadakoin River and is centered around a walkable downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and other businesses. Lucille Ball, one of America’s most iconic actresses, was born here and there is a museum dedicated to her legacy.

The 1891 Victorian-style Fenton History Center provides glimpses into the region’s heritage. The Reg Lenna Center for the Arts and Northwest Arena are local spots to take in performances and events. The Chautauqua Mall and several wineries are located just outside downtown.

Outdoor recreation like boating, fishing, and hiking can be found in nearby Chautauqua Lake and Allegheny National Forest. Healthcare needs can be met through UPMC Chautauqua, an excellent regional hospital.

Between WCA Hospital and UPMC Chautauqua, Jamestown provides high-quality medical care. Resources for seniors are available through the Office for the Aging. Jamestown’s affordability and abundance of local activities make it appealing for active seniors looking forward to an engaged retirement. At the same time, its location adjacent to the New York State Thruway provides easy access.

• Population : 28,024
• Amenities: Walkable downtown, Lucille Ball museum , Chautauqua Lake recreation, performing arts center
• Average Cost of Living : 16% lower than national average

Nicknamed “Crystal City,” Corning is most famous as the home of Corning Glass Works and the amazing Corning Museum of Glass. More than just a factory town, this community in the Finger Lakes region of New York offers natural beauty and affordable retirement living.

Prices for rental homes are low making housing affordable and Corning one of the cheapest places to retire in New York State.

The Corning Museum of Glass is an impressive attraction allowing visitors to learn about glassmaking history and admire contemporary art pieces. The Rockwell Museum of Western Art and the Corning Museum of Gaffering are interesting local museums as well. Corning has a revitalized downtown full of shops, restaurants, cafes, and weekly farmers markets in the summer. The tree-lined Chemung River runs through town, providing lovely walking paths, and the area boasts numerous famed wineries along Seneca Lake to visit.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Corning’s proximity to the Finger Lakes National Forest with hiking, boating, and fishing. Local parks like Denison and Stewart offer more outdoor recreation options.

Guthrie Corning Hospital meets local healthcare needs with top-notch services and specialties. Resources and activities for seniors are provided by the Corning Senior Community Center.

Between the cultural attractions, natural beauty, amenities, and affordability, Corning is a desirable location for active retirees looking for small-city living at a reasonable price. The town's location also provides easy access to Elmira, Ithaca, Rochester, and the rest of the Finger Lakes.

• Population : 11,065
• Amenities : Glass museum, Rockwell museum, Gaffer District downtown, Finger Lakes wineries
• Average Cost of Living: 9% lower than national average

Located in Steuben County nestled between the Finger Lakes and Western New York, Hornell offers comfortable living and affordability. The low cost of housing makes Hornell an extremely cheap place to retire within New York.

Hornell’s downtown area provides amenities and entertainment with its mix of shops, restaurants, and a bowling alley. Museums like the Railroad Museum and Museum of Memories showcase the region’s rich history. The PAST building hosts concerts and theater productions.

Hornell sits along the Canisteo River, which offers fishing and boating opportunities. The Crosby Creek State Park located just outside town provides hiking trails with beautiful views. Local golf courses offer retirees a chance to get some fresh air and exercise. Healthcare services are available through St. James Hospital, part of the University of Rochester system.

For shopping and healthcare, Hornell provides easy access to nearby Corning and Elmira. The area is located along Interstate 86 between Rochester and the Pennsylvania state line. Steuben Senior Services Fund assists local seniors with needs.

With extremely affordable housing, recreation options, and convenient amenities, Hornell has much to offer retirees seeking value within New York. The natural beauty, community feel and convenience of the area make Hornell an appealing retirement destination.

• Population : 8,016
• Amenities : Canisteo River recreation, downtown shops and restaurants, senior wellness programs
• Average Cost of Living : 14% lower than national average

Batavia offers retirees affordable living in Genesee County, halfway between Buffalo and Rochester. Hotels and Rentals are on a great deal here. Also, there is an affordable housing market which helps make Batavia a cheap place to retire in New York.

This western New York community has a walkable downtown along historic Main Street with lots of local shops and eateries. The Holland Land Office Museum provides insights into early settlers in the region. Theatre 56 hosts shows and entertainment. Local parks offer pleasant walking trails, sports facilities, and scenery along Tonawanda Creek through the center of town.

The roughly 5,000-acre Genesee County Park and Forest provides ample outdoor recreation with hiking trails, campgrounds, and fishing access.

UPMC Genesee Hospital meets the healthcare needs of residents. Batavia’s convenient location right off the NY-33 and I-90 allows easy access to Rochester, Buffalo, and beyond. Nearby Le Roy provides additional amenities and charm. Resources and community programming for seniors are available through the Genesee County Office for the Aging. Between affordability, coziness, and location, Batavia hits the sweet spot for active retirees seeking an affordable lifestyle.

• Population : 15,394
• Amenities : Shopping malls, performing arts center, minor league baseball, Letchworth State Park
• Average Cost of Living : 11% lower than national average

Related: 10 Absolutely Magical Winter Destinations To See In New York State

Tucked away within the rolling hills of Central New York along the Chenango River, Norwich offers natural scenery and small city living on a budget. Rentals and median homes are affordable, and the cost of living is lower than average here as well, helping retirees stretch their retirement funds.

Downtown Norwich has a lively mix of shops, restaurants, breweries, and entertainment venues that provide a taste of city amenities amid a small town. Museums such as the Northeast Classic Car Museum and the Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival showcase local culture. The Norwich YMCA and Midtown Parks provide recreational facilities and green space. The 18-hole Canasawacta Country Club offers scenic golfing.

The natural landscape around Norwich provides plenty of places to get outdoors and hike, fish, camp and boat. Within town, the tree-lined Chenango River threaded with walking paths makes for idyllic views.

The hospital in Norwich along with medical clinics and offices meet healthcare needs so retirees don’t have to travel far for care.

Community resources for seniors are available through the Chenango County Area Agency on Aging. Conveniently located at the intersection of Route 12 and Interstate 88, Norwich connects easily to surrounding towns and cities like Oneonta, Binghamton, and Cooperstown. With its blend of nature, culture, and affordable lifestyle, Norwich is an appealing retirement destination in New York’s southern tier for active seniors.

• Population : 6,595
• Amenities : Downtown shops and restaurants, performing arts center, nearby hiking and fishing

Here are the places The New York Times just recommended people visit in Toronto

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The New York Times just published the latest in their series of '36 Hours' travel articles and this time the city they've written about is Toronto.

While normally I wouldn't trust a non-local for suggestions on how to spend your time in the city, the Times does a better job on these articles than most publications, detailing the best ways to spend a day-and-a-half in a city, and their recommendations for Toronto are actually not bad.

Here's everywhere New York Times writer Ingrid K. Williams  recommended you visit while in Toronto (even if you live here).

Detailing the best-of-the-best, the most-un-skippable of all Toronto experiences, Williams suggests exploring Trillium Park (even though part of it is fenced off ), eating at Kensington Market's Sunny's Chinese , visiting MOCA  in the Junction Triangle and grabbing a drink at Crybaby Gallery  near Dundas and Dufferin.

Sunny's Chinese is a go-to spot for dinner in Kensington Market. Photo by Fareen Karim.

Attractions

Once you've exhausted the key stops, Williams suggests Massey Hall , Evergreen Brick Works , the Gardiner Museum , UofT's Philosopher's Walk, the Bata Shoe Museum , the Beach (as in, the neighbourhood), the McMichael and Zaal Art Gallery as must-see attractions.

White Lily is a popular brunch spot in Riverside. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Restaurants

Choosing a small selection of restaurants to be decreed as the "best" is kind of like picking a star in the sky and calling it the most beautiful. While not wholly wrong, it's also not entirely right.

In any event, Williams' list of Toronto's must-visit restaurants and food spots includes Patois , Bad Attitude Bread , Milky's Coffee , Taverne Bernhardt's , Bowie , Bathurst Local and White Lily Diner .

A smaller selection of small businesses made it onto the list (presumably because NYT readers will be busy visiting all those museums), but leading the charge are Easy Tiger Goods , Issues Magazine Shop and Etc Home .

If you're looking for more recommendations, I suggest Tusk for trendy womenswear, The Apartment Life for vintage decor and furniture and Acadia Art & Rare Books — a favourite of Guillermo del Toro's .

Ode is an under-the-radar lodging spot on Dundas West. Photo by Fareen Karim.

Williams also recommends a selection of hotels to stay at, like the Ace Hotel , the Drake Hotel , Ode or finding a vacation rental — specifically in or around Trinity Bellwoods.

Herman Wong at Milky's

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Frugal Traveler

Standby Cruising: A New Option for Bargain Seekers

Are you a flexible traveler? Holland America’s standby cruises may be for you. The cost: $49 a day, excluding fees, taxes and extras. The catch: It might be a hair-raising, last-minute scramble.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

In February, Barb McGowan took a seven-day cruise on Holland America Line, visiting the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic for just $343, or $49 a day, excluding taxes, port fees and extras. By comparison, Holland America currently lists a seven-day Caribbean itinerary in October from about $700.

The catch: She had just 48 hours’ notice.

Ms. McGown, a 64-year-old from Naples, Fla., who runs a restaurant franchise, took one of the line’s new standby cruises , which are aimed at travelers who live near departure ports and intended to fill ship vacancies.

“I look for deals, and this was an especially good experience,” Ms. McGowan said, praising the food and entertainment. “I was impressed enough to put down a deposit on a future cruise.”

A way to keep ships full

Holland America introduced its standby program last August to maximize ship occupancy, knowing that cancellations are inevitable. So far, the rest of the cruise industry has not followed its lead.

“If cancellations are within a week or two of sailing, it’s difficult to resell that space in the open market,” said Dan Rough, the vice president of revenue management at Holland America.

In the same way that airlines oversell seats, cruise lines may compensate for cancellations by overselling staterooms. Filling in with standbys, however, reduces Holland America’s reliance on overselling, which runs the risk of bumping passengers to distant departures or potentially offering generous cash incentives to coax volunteers to cancel.

Though the company does not heavily promote the new practice, it has attracted a following among the thrifty by dangling a bargain rate — $49 a person, whether sharing a cabin or traveling solo, before taxes and fees — on a web page that lists available departure dates to attract flexible travelers. Standbys should expect an inside cabin, according to the company, though ocean-view and veranda cabins have been assigned. (The company declined to say how many standby cabins it has offered.)

“Forty-nine dollars per person, per day is pretty exceptional,” said Colleen McDaniel, the editor of CruiseCritic.com , a website that reviews cruises, noting that the price covers all meals and entertainment. “You can’t find a cheaper rate at a land resort for what’s included.” (In 2023, the average nightly rate for a hotel room in the United States was nearly $156, according to STR, a data analytics firm that monitors the hospitality industry.)

To participate, travelers choose an itinerary from the standby list on the website — current embarkation ports include Boston; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Montreal; Quebec City; San Diego; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Whittier, Alaska — and pay for the trip in advance by calling Holland America or booking through a travel adviser.

There are no refunds for standby cruisers who want to back out. However, if the gamble fails to pay off, and the cruise line cannot offer a cabin to someone on the standby list, it issues a refund.

The company says standby offerings are added on a rolling basis and usually lists itineraries within two to three months of departure. Current offerings include seven-day sailings in Alaska’s Inside Passage from April through September and seven-to-11-day trips cruising the coast of New England and Canada’s Maritime Provinces between May and October.

Proximity is a bonus

Standby cruisers don’t learn of their acceptance or denial until a week to two days before departure, complicating transportation arrangements.

“Last-minute airfare could offset the savings on a cruise,” wrote Crystal Seaton, the owner of Road to Relaxation Travel , a travel agency based in Raleigh, N.C., in an email. Though she has not booked a client on a standby sailing yet, she surmised that it is intended for travelers who can drive to a port.

“We were lucky; we found out Tuesday we were going on a Friday 3 p.m. sailing,” said Sheila Valloney, 66, of Clermont, Fla., who with her husband spent nine days aboard a Holland America ship in the southern Caribbean in February by going standby.

Before being cleared, she reserved a parking spot near the ship dock in Fort Lauderdale, which would have set her back about $6 if she canceled. She also kept their vacation clothes ready to go at the last minute for the three-and-a-half-hour drive to port.

Booking a refundable airline ticket — or at least one that guarantees a credit in loyalty points or cash in the event of cancellation — is one way travelers who must fly can take advantage of the deal.

For her standby sailing, Ms. McGowan drove 90 minutes from her home to the ship in Fort Lauderdale. But her travel companion was coming from Indiana, so when she joined the standby list a few months before the departure date, she booked her friend a Southwest Airlines flight using frequent flier points that would be refunded if the last-minute cruise didn’t come through.

Avoiding extra charges

Once on board, charges for extras like cabin upgrades, Wi-Fi, alcohol and shore excursions can inflate the bill, though the thriftiest travelers try to avoid them.

Ms. McGowan sprang for the $17.50-a-day charge for an upgraded drink package (basic nonalcoholic drinks are included in the cruise) and took one shore excursion, focused on coffee growing, which she deemed a good value at $89.

On their Caribbean cruise, the Valloneys asked around for recommendations for good beaches, where they went to relax on port days, and waited until they were on land to check emails, in order to avoid paying for Wi-Fi on the ship.

“We didn’t miss it at all,” Ms. Valloney said. “For beverages, we would wait until happy hour, when it was buy one, get one free.”

Will other companies follow suit?

To date, no other cruise lines have adopted standby programs.

Princess Cruises said it did not plan to offer cabins on a standby basis, but noted that it already offers last-minute deals , which tend to run about $50 to $60 per passenger per day. For example, a seven-day Alaska sailing from Vancouver to Anchorage departing on May 8 is listed at $399 a person in a double-occupancy cabin.

Several other major cruise lines did not respond to inquiries about potentially adopting standby programs, though operators like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer last-minute deals on their websites.

“We would be surprised to see many mainstream cruise lines begin to adopt a similar model” to the standby system, wrote Kimberly Coyne, the head of sales and content strategy for Cruiseline.com , a cruise review site, in an email. She said the standby fares might be financially unsustainable for cruise lines and cited the potential that travelers might become too accustomed to late-booking deals.

More ways to save

With the recent surge in cruise bookings, companies are discounting less, said Ms. McDaniel of CruiseCritic.com.

She identified more reliable ways to get a deal compared with going standby, such as booking during “ wave season ,” a sales period that generally runs January through March, or taking a repositioning cruise, in which a ship relocates from one region to another seasonally. A repositioning itinerary might sail in the fall from Alaska to the Caribbean via the Panama Canal.

“It’s not unusual to see a repositioning cruise at less than $75 per night,” Ms. McDaniel, said, noting that other expenses such as an airline itinerary into one city and returning from another may cost more than a standard round-trip ticket.

Repositioning cruises tend to stop at fewer ports and add more shipboard enrichment programs, such as lectures and activities like cake decorating classes and craft spirits tastings.

“For a lot of people the ship is the destination and this is the perfect activity for people who like to be on the ship,” she said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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