A visit to New York City can be the adventure of a lifetime but it can also be an enormously expensive proposition. It is, perhaps, the most expensive city in the world to get around in and visit but there are some strategies you can use that can prevent you from totally destroying your budget.
Grab a tourist pass and hit all of the free tours
One thing about NYC is their tourist pass. It will let you gain entry to over 80 sights and attractions in the city. It is called The New York Pass and it was invented by the people of New York so that tourists can see as much of the city as they can for free. Another strategy is to show up around 20 minutes early at a theater before a show is scheduled to begin. Often, the theaters will have a “student rush” or other spontaneous discounts for those looking to see a show without sacrificing next month’s rent.
Tours are everywhere and they are pretty cheap but many can be found for free. Don’t forget to surf the discount sites on line for the best deals. Buying them from a scalper in the street will be too expensive. In addition, there are tons of bike and walking tours that can be had for free. Sure, NYC is gigantic, but much can be seen while traveling on foot. You can even walk across the Brooklyn Bridge!
Free entertainment is everywhere
Just sitting on the curb watching the world go by can be one of the greatest of entertainments in a city the size of NYC. In Times Square you will find many places offering free entertainment especially the comedy clubs. But a quick FYI and make sure there are no drink requirements before you venture in. Also, if in Brooklyn or Times Square, you can great discounted tickets at TKTS booths as well as at Goldstar.
Also, grab a subscription to Free New York City Concerts. It will let you know what free things are happening wherever you happen to be in the city. Spend a day at a museum. There are many to choose from and many offer free admission. Also, there is always some kind of fair or festival happening in the city. They are usually free to get in and you just never know what you will find. Don’t forget Coney Island and there is always a happening in Union Square.
Forget shopping and visit the parks and the street vendors
Avoid shopping for their are few cities more expensive than NYC. The parks are a free and wonderful place to hang out and, who knows, you may even catch some Shakespeare with Free Shakespeare in the Park and there is kayaking to be had at many of the public boat houses. There is no shortage of food in New York but the street vendors can offer the best prices and there is a huge variety of fare to be had.
PHOTO SOURCE: CBS, filmvz.com, urban75.net