Free Things To Do In NYC This Weekend
Wondering what free events, free shows, free art exhibitions or free tours are happening in NYC this weekend? Also this week there will be many great events and tours that are completely free. Here I have put together the most important activities that will thrill visitors and New Yorkers alike.
My tip: Here you find even more free things to do in NYC (looong read!).
Best Free Things To Do In NYC This Weekend
These are my recommendations for Friday, Saturday and Sunday – enjoy!
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01
Do a FREE Brooklyn Brewery tour every Sunday
Bar in Williamsburg
One of the city’s most iconic breweries, the Brooklyn Brewery has been a staple of the craft beer scene for over 30 years. Located in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, this brewery is known for its innovative and flavorful beers, as well as its welcoming and communal atmosphere.
What sets Brooklyn Brewery apart is its commitment to quality and consistency. They use only the finest ingredients and follow traditional brewing techniques to create some of the most delicious and well-respected beers in the city. If you’re lucky enough to stop in, check out the flagship Brooklyn Lager, it’s a balanced and flavorful brew that’s perfect for any occasion. And if you want a unique flavor experience, opt for the beloved Sorachi Ace Saison, which features hints of lemongrass and a crisp, refreshing finish.
When?
- Sundays – hourly 1:00 – 6:00 PM
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02
The Jewish Museum is FREE on Satrudays
Museum in Upper East Side
The Jewish Museum is more than 100 years old and contains an impressive collection of art and religious exhibits from the past 4,000 years. With 27,000 exhibits, the museum’s significance is the most unique in the United States for the Jewish community and people of all cultural backgrounds.
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03
Queens Botanical Garden is FREE on Sundays
Park in Flushing
The Queens Botanical Garden is a wonderful place to escape especially in May when everything is in bloom. During the colder months from November to March, you do not have to pay any entrance fee. Many gardens here display a collection of roses, bees, and herbs. There’s even an art gallery as well.
When?
- Sundays, 9:00 – 11:00 AM
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04
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Building in DumboOur Highlight
The Brooklyn Bridge is used by over 120,000 vehicles across its 6 lanes, 4000 pedestrians, and 3000 bikes, per day. The views of NYC from the Brooklyn Bridge are spectacular and it is an absolute necessity that you walk across the bridge during your trip to NYC. Especially at sunrise and sunset this is one of NYC’s most photogenic spots. Just be prepared to be surrounded by a bunch of people.
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05
Visit Bryant Park
Park in Midtown Manhattan
Bryant Park is located right in central Manhattan and is a quiet oasis between 40th and 42nd Street. Bryant Park is right in the cetner of Midtown Manhattan between 40th and 42nd Street, yet it still lends you the peace and quiet you need to get away for a few moments from the bustling city. Withg many small cafés dotted throughout the park this is the perfect place to unwind or relax when the weather is nice.
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06
Take the Staten Island Ferry for FREE Skyline Views
Cruise in Staten Island
One of New York’s most popular tourist attractions is the Staten Island Ferry, which commutes between the southern tip of Manhattan and Staten Island. The crossing is free of charge! The 5 mile journey takes about 20-25 minutes and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the skyscrapers and the Statue of Liberty.
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07
Central Park
Park in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
Central Park spans from Midtown Manhattan all the way up to Harlem. There are about 340 hectares of land and is a popular meeting place for New Yorkers. With about 35 million visitors per year, the man-made park is an attraction not only for tourists. New Yorkers love Central Park and its tranquility. Many events are held here such as the NYC Marathon. There are also tons of green spaces, walking lanes, and bike lanes. Central Park is home to Sheep’s Meadow, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo, and many other things as well.
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08
Union Square Greenmarket
Food Market in Gramercy
The Union Square Greenmarket in Manhattan is home to numerous local vendors where you can purchase fresh produce, meats, and seafood.
When?
- Fridays & Saturdays – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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09
Do the FREE High Line Tour: From Freight to Flowers
Walking Tour in West Village
The High Line Park takes you along the old tracks of the elevated railway to the Meatpacking District. Thanks to the initiative „Friends of the High Line“ the park exists at all because originally the construction was supposed to be torn down. And the best thing? They offer free tours!
When?
- November – April: Saturdays, 12:00 PM
- May – October: Saturdays, 10:00 AM
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10
FREE Admission to the Whitney Museum on Friday
Museum in Meatpacking District
Newly opened in 2015, the Whitney Museum in New York shines in a whole new light. The Whitney Museum has one of the most spectacular collections of contemporary art that focuses on American art of the 20th and 21st centuries. Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Edward Hopper, Jackson Pollock, and Robert Rauschenberg are just a few of the names whose paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, and installations are part of the exhibits at the Whitney Museum. More than 21,000 works of art are permanently showcased here. The museum is located in The Meatpacking District in Manhattan.
When?
- every Friday, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
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11
Enjoy free entry to El Museo del Barrio
Museum in Upper East Side
El Museo del Barrio NYC is right at the north end of the Museum Mile and exhibits everything to do with art and culture from Latin America. After its expensive renovation in 2009, the museum is better than ever and offers its visitors a collection of over 6500 artifacts, as well as many permanent and special exhibitions alike.
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12
Take a picture of the Charging Bull
Other Attraction in Financial District
The Charging Bull of Wall Street was created by the 1998 artist Arturo Di Modica. The 3,200 kilogram “bronze statue” symbolizes the optimism and strength of the people after the stock market crash of 1986 (in English: Charging Bull). For his work Arturo Di Modica has received the famous “Ellis Island Medal of Honor”.
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13
Visit the famous Grand Central Terminal
Other Attraction in Midtown Manhattan
Grand Central Station is probably the most famous commuter station in the world. Every single day, thousands of locals and tourists walk through this busy and fast-paced terminal. This New York City commuter rail terminal has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows and is an iconic location within the city. Tourists that visit NYC make sure that Grand Central is part of their itinerary.
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14
Enjoy FREE Skyline Views at Pier 57 Rooftop
Pier in Chelsea
Right next to the beautiful Little Island is the Pier 57 Rooftop NYC. As the name suggests, you can go up to the roof of this huge pier and enjoy a sensational view of the city skyline.
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15
Tudor City Bridge gives you a beautiful View of 42nd Street & Chrysler Building
Other Attraction in Murray HillThe Tudor City Bridge is a small bridge over 42nd Street and it is just a short walk away from Grand Central Terminal. The bridge itself is not that exciting, but the view over 42nd Street to the west including the Chrysler Building is even more beautiful. Definitely a great photo opportunity – and completely free.
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16
Enjoy the amazing Skyline Views from Squibb Park Bridge
Other Attraction in Brooklyn HeightsSquibb Park Bridge serves as a remarkable and essential gateway to the park, providing visitors with a convenient and breathtaking route to Brooklyn Bridge Park. As you stroll across this iconic bridge, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of Lower Manhattan. With its unique design and engineering, the Squibb Bridge offers a captivating journey, meandering from Squibb Park in Brooklyn Heights to the Greenway in Brooklyn Bridge Park at Pier 1.
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