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New York City is known for its energy and vibrancy, and the best part is, you don’t always have to spend money to enjoy it. Whether it’s winter, spring, summer, or fall, there’s something exciting to do in each neighborhood. Here’s a guide to free things you can experience in the different seasons throughout the year in NYC.
Unlock The Best Free Things to D0 in NYC This Season via Top Tiktok Videos
Here are some seasonal ideas for free things to do in NYC, inspired by popular TikTok videos. These videos provide a sneak peek into the best free activities around the city.
Winter in NYC
1. Ice Skate at Bryant Park
During the winter, Bryant Park offers a free ice skating experience. Although skate rentals cost money, you can bring your own skates. Afterward, stroll through the Winter Village and enjoy holiday shops.
@bryantparknyc A day at The Rink 🌇⛸️. We hope to see you skating at Bank of America Winter Village soon 💚❄️. Click our #linkinbio for more information and to reserve your tickets today 🎟️. What’s your favorite time to skate 🌞🌚? #iceskating #iceskatingtiktok #wintervillage #bryantpark #christmasinnewyork #christmas #nyc #nycwinter #wintervibes #wintervibe #nycchristmas ♬ original sound – Gigi Perez
2. Visit the Brooklyn Bridge Park
Winter walks along the Brooklyn Bridge Park are stunning. The view of Manhattan’s skyline and the bridge is breathtaking. This scenic park also offers a calm, peaceful atmosphere during winter months.
@ultimatefoodtours Walking the Brooklyn Bridge? Be prepared! Here is our Ultimate Guide to the most famous bridge in the United States #ultimatefoodtours #brooklynbridge #nyctravel ♬ original sound – Ultimate Food Tours
3. Walk Through Central Park’s Snowy Trails
Central Park looks magical when covered in snow. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while walking through its trails. You can also photograph the snowy landscapes for beautiful memories.
@nyc.ny.nyc Share with a friend you would go with 🫶🏻 #nyc #newyork #newyorkcity #fyp #nyctiktok ♬ this is what winter feels like – JVKE
4. Explore Winter Markets in Union Square
Union Square’s Winter Market is filled with unique sights. You can window shop and take in the festive atmosphere. Though it’s tempting to buy, walking around is free and enjoyable. Also, check out 14 holiday bucket list ideas in NYC for other free ideas.
@chewyorkcity Rounding up everything I ate at the Union Square Holiday Market ✨⛄️(you can also find my complete list of holiday eats and everything NYC holiday on my Substack!) #unionsquareholidaymarket #nycholidays #nycfood ♬ original sound – christmas sounds 🎄
5. Attend a Free Winter Concert at Lincoln Center
The Lincoln Center offers several free winter concerts. These performances can be an excellent way to enjoy culture without spending. Check their schedule to find free events that fit your schedule.
Related Podcast Ep: My NYC Itinerary Plus Holiday Bucket List Ideas
Spring in NYC
6. Stroll Through the High Line in Chelsea
The High Line is an elevated park offering unique views. You can see the city bloom as flowers start to bloom. It’s a perfect spot to relax while enjoying the spring weather.
@jeffreyinnyc The Chelsea High Line Tour #nyc #NewYork #visitnyc #nybucketlist #travelnyc #Chelsea #HighLine ♬ Relaxing Japanese-style piano song inviting nostalgia – Akiko Akiyama
7. Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Spring brings vibrant cherry blossoms to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The garden is free on certain days of the week. Stroll through the peaceful pathways and immerse yourself in nature.
@r_chhetri The most perfect spring day at the 📍Brooklyn Botanic Garden 🪴🌸🥀! The garden is in full bloom so go before its too late !! #brooklynbotanicgarden #cherryblossom #spring #nycspring#nycthingstodo #flowers #nyc #fyp ♬ original sound – 🌆 – Cancer ♋️
8. Attend Shakespeare in the Park in Central Park
Shakespeare in the Park is a free cultural event. Enjoy stunning performances under the stars in Central Park. It’s a classic New York experience, particularly in the spring season.
9. Walk Around the New York Botanical Garden The New York Botanical Garden showcases beautiful spring blooms. While admission is usually required, free days are available throughout the season. Don’t miss out on the seasonal exhibits when they’re free.
10. Explore the Green-Wood Cemetery Green-Wood Cemetery is a hidden gem with beautiful spring scenery. It offers serene walks among ancient trees and historic monuments. This peaceful cemetery is perfect for an afternoon escape from the city buzz.
@uppereastsideandbeyond Must-Do Activity in NYC This Spring: The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden #nybg #nyc #newyorkcity #nycthingstodo ♬ Just a Cloud Away – Pharrell Williams
Summer in NYC
11. Enjoy a Free Movie in Bryant Park
Summer evenings in Bryant Park are perfect for outdoor movies. The park hosts free screenings of classic films under the stars. Pack a picnic and relax while watching a movie in the heart of Manhattan.
12. Walk Through the Brooklyn Flea Market
The Brooklyn Flea Market is an iconic New York experience. While browsing the booths is free, be prepared for plenty of tempting items. It’s the perfect way to soak in the local culture.
@theprintuplist Its pretty amazing and I walked away with some gems! #shoppingfun #hiddengems #shoppinghaul #thrifting #fashiontiktok #thriftingfinds #fleamarket #brooklyn #nyc #bqflea #nyctips #nycshopping #nycfleamarket ♬ original sound – ThePrintupList
13. Visit Governors Island
Take a free ferry ride to Governors Island in the summer. Enjoy the historic landmarks, art installations, and open spaces. This island getaway offers a unique view of New York City. Also, think about packing a picnic.
@jenna.moorman a perfect summer sunday in new york for just $26. and the ferry is free before noon! #governorsisland #nyc #budgetfriendly ♬ Could You Be Loved – Bob Marley & The Wailers
14. Attend Summer Stage Concerts in Central Park
Summer Stage brings free music concerts to Central Park. With a variety of genres, these performances are fun and accessible. Bring your friends to enjoy a live concert in a beautiful outdoor setting.
15. Walk Along the East River Esplanade
The East River Esplanade provides a scenic walking path along the water. It’s an excellent place to enjoy the warm summer breeze. The views of the bridges and skyline are fantastic for photography.
Related Podcast Ep: New York City Bucket List: Find Fun Things to Do in The Big Apple
Fall in NYC
16. Visit the Fall Foliage in Prospect Park
Prospect Park in Brooklyn is beautiful during the fall season. The changing leaves create a colorful landscape perfect for photography. You can walk, run, or relax while taking in the crisp autumn air.
17. Attend the Village Halloween Parade
The Village Halloween Parade is a one-of-a-kind event. It’s free to watch, and you can see creative costumes. This festive event brings the neighborhood together with energy and excitement.
@littlekidbigcity What to Know – NYC Halloween Parade The Village Halloween Parade is the World’s LARGEST Halloween parade. Every year, more than 60,000 ghouls, witches, monsters and giant puppets take to the NYC streets for a wild night of fun. Here’s what to know! Parade Path + Time The parade starts at 7pm at Canal St & 6th Ave, and ends at 15th St & 6th Ave. The route is 1.4 miles long. The parade typically lasts until 11pm. March in the Parade Anyone can march IN New York’s Village Halloween Parade, and it is FREE. You MUST be in costume to join. Simply line up at the corner of Canal & 6th Ave between 6:30pm and 9pm. Watch the Parade Spectators gather on both sides of 6th Ave, between Canal & 15th streets to watch the parade. Get there early to stand in the front! The parade is also televised on NY1. Crowds Crowds are fierce, and with the warm forecast this year – it will likely be the largest ever. The parade will have 60,000 costumed participants & over 2 million spectators. It’s Not for Kids The parade is a celebration of creativity, and ANYTHING goes. There will be (many) costumes that leave little to the imagination, and themes that are not appropriate for small children. #nychalloween #halloween #thriller #villageparade #halloweenparade #nycparade #nyc #newyorkcity ♬ original sound – mjfangirl07
18. Explore the New York Public Library
In the fall, the New York Public Library offers free tours. Discover the rich history behind the iconic building and its collections. Fall is a great time to enjoy the library’s quiet atmosphere.
19. Take a Fall Ferry Ride to Staten Island
The Staten Island Ferry ride is free and offers great views. In the fall, you can see the changing colors along the waterfront. It’s an ideal way to explore New York Harbor with a scenic backdrop.
@boboandchichi Free things to do in New York City: ride the Staten Island Ferry! We share how to ride the Staten Island Ferry like a pro plus a few tips and tricks! #nyctips #newyorkcity #freethingstodoinnyc #statenislandferry ♬ son original – The King of funk
20. Check Out the Open Houses at City Hall
City Hall offers free tours where you can learn about NYC’s history. During the fall, these tours are especially enjoyable as the weather is cooler. Discover the building’s architecture and significance in the city’s past.
Conclusion for Free Things to Do in NYC Throughout The Year
In conclusion, NYC offers endless free activities year-round. Therefore, make the most of these accessible and fun experiences. Ultimately, these free options ensure unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. Also, save your money for spectacular shows like seeing The Rockettes or visiting an observation deck.