New York City is one of the most expensive cities in North America, but visiting the Big Apple for a family holiday can be cheaper than one might think. You can still stick to your budget by choosing worthwhile activities that won’t even cost you a dime. We listed down five and free things that you can enjoy with the family while visiting New York City.
Explore Central Park
Seeing the trees, grass and water features of Central Park is an invitation to relax and kick back in the heart of the city. Right inside the park, children can find recreational spaces that are designed for their absolute enjoyment. They will be mesmerized at the remote-controlled model sailboats stream across the pond in Conservatory Water, or Boat Pond as locals call it. The whimsical statues of Alice in Wonderland and Hans Christian Andersen can be found nearby. For more playtime, bring the kids to Billy Johnson Playground and Heckscher Playground.
Watch the Friday Fireworks on Coney Island Boardwalk
Summer in New York City will not be complete for the family without going to Coney Island. This amusement hub never goes out of style, with its host of attractions, eateries and beaches. Take a refreshing stroll along the boardwalk before watching the Friday Fireworks light up the night sky. Check out the schedule for the yearly Mermaid Parade for a quintessential Coney Island experience.
Drop by Books of Wonder for Storytime
Museums, libraries and popular bookstores have regular activities for children that are free of charge. One of New York City’s well-loved bookstores, Books of Wonder, welcomes kids during its weekly story-telling session called Storytime. The cozy store has scores and scores of children’s books, from the classic and mainstream to the rare and antique. Feel free to sit in one of the cozy places and leaf through books.
See beautiful New York City from the High Line
New York City has a multitude of parks, and one of them is the highly popular High Line, Manhattan’s elevated park. The innovative public park used to be a railroad track that has ceased operations back in the 1980s. Explore the lush green space while admiring some of the best views in New York City. Join park tours and learn more about the gardens and animals thriving in the High Line, all for free.
Visit the busy Grand Central Station
It’s a treat for children to watch trains come and go while you’re inside the Grand Central Station, one of New York City’s iconic attractions. Families can marvel at the stately architecture of the Beaux Arts structure while taking a tour of the train station. Kids can look up and do a bit of stargazing as well. The main concourse’s ceiling features a drawing of the constellations. There are free exhibits to be had, like the holiday train show organized by the New York Transit Museum. Also during the holidays, the starry ceiling becomes the backdrop for a free light and sound show.
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