Central Park. Lucía Vázquez

NYC on a Budget

Enjoy free and affordable attractions, events and activities in the City.

People relax on a grassy park overlooking a river, with a sailboat and the illuminated New York City skyline in the background at dusk. Trees frame the view in the foreground.
Article

19 Fun Things to Do in Brooklyn Bridge Park

This waterfront attraction has everything you need: magnificent views, cultural activities, lots of nature and plenty of spaces for relaxing.

Exterior or NBC Studios
Article

TV Show Tapings

Want to join the live audience of TV shows taped in New York City? Use our guide to find free tickets.

Group of People walking in Central Park
Article

Explore New York City with Big Apple Greeter

This free NYC service shows off a different side of the City while making lasting connections between visitors and volunteers.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Article

A Look into the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC

Begun in 1924, this holiday tradition has become a local—and national—institution that could be held nowhere else.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, at night,  in Manhattan
Article

Complete Guide to the Rock Center Tree

Become an instant expert on the Midtown holiday icon.

People walk around Bethesda Fountain in Central Park in Manhattan
Article

28 Fun Central Park Activities

Find the top sights, activities and locations in New York City's best-known green space.

Exterior of MoMA PS1
Article

Free NYC Museums

These NYC museums, monuments and art-filled attractions are either free today, on specific days or at certain times during the week. Find one near you.

Article

Best Pizza Slices

Who makes the best slice of pizza in the five boroughs? Read an expert’s roundup of New York City pizzerias to find out.

view of governors island, within the New York City borough of Manhattan
Article

Things to Do on Governors Island

There are plenty of ways to explore this mid-harbor oasis in NYC.

New York Vintage
Article

Top Vintage, Thrift and Flea Market Shopping

Explore the best in preloved fashion, vintage finds and artisanal wares.

People buying fruits and vegetables at Corona Farmers Market
Article

Best Farmers’ Markets in NYC

Shop for farm-fresh produce at these open-air greenmarkets in NYC.

Roosevelt Island Tram against a blue sky
Article

Roosevelt Island Itinerary

Take the tram to this Manhattan neighborhood for historic ruins, scenic parks and waterfront views.

A group of people stand up inside the ocean at Brighton Beach in Brooklyn.
Article

Get to Know 3 NYC Beaches

New York City’s beaches are not-so-hidden gems. Here are some of our favorites.

The Book of HOV exhibit at the Brooklyn Public Library
Article

NYC Arts and Entertainment on a Budget

Find the best free and low-cost things for culture lovers to do in NYC.

people shopping at, the Brooklyn Flea in Brooklyn
Article

5 Great Outdoor Markets

As the weather warms up, find food, fashion and fun at outdoor markets across the boroughs.

FREE SEASONAL EVENTS

At all times, there are performances, festivals and other chances to experience NYC for free. Find a selection of top upcoming and ongoing events below.

Dec 21, 2025
Music
Citywide

Make Music New York (Winter)

Don’t miss this winter solstice music festival, filled with parades, performances and gatherings.

Photo: Diane Bondareff
Dec 3, 2025 - Jan 11, 2026
Attractions & Tours
Midtown West

Rock Center Tree Lighting

Don’t miss the lighting of the world’s most famous Christmas tree.

Grand Army Plaza. Photo: Julienne Schaer
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 22, 2025
Attractions & Tours
Prospect Heights

Lighting Hanukkah Menorahs

Brooklyn and Manhattan light their Hanukkah menorahs with accompanying festivities.

Three Kings Day Parade
Jan 6, 2026
Events & Festivals
East Harlem

Three Kings Day Parade

Celebrate the tradition with a parade, live music and gift giveaways.

OUTDOORS IN NYC

A string of green spaces across the boroughs offers endless walking opportunities.

People stand on a ferry, looking at the New York City skyline featuring tall buildings and the distant view of One World Trade Center. The scene captures a warm, late afternoon light.
Article

Guide to the Staten Island Ferry

Come sail away on the popular free commuter boat—which also makes for a good sightseeing cruise.

People walk at the urban farm on Governors Island, with views of Manhattan in the background
Article

The Family Guide to Governors Island

Explore scenic views, outdoor activities and family-friendly fun just a ferry ride away in New York Harbor.

Brooklyn Bridge at sunset
Article

Guide to the Brooklyn Bridge

Find everything you need to know about walking, biking or just admiring the Brooklyn Bridge right here.

Concert Grove Pavilion. Photo: Yael Malka
Article

Prospect Park Secrets

Visit Brooklyn’s beloved green space with an eye toward its hidden features and lesser-known history.

Pink and red flowers during the sunset in the middle of Washington Square Park in Manhattan
Article

Five NYC Parks, One Summer Weekend

Photographers capture the best of summer at parks across the boroughs.

A lifeguard at South Beach,  Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in the background, in Staten Island
Itinerary
Citywide

NYC Beach Guide

Enjoy sun, sand and surf at these NYC beaches.

People walk around Bethesda Fountain in Central Park in Manhattan
Article

28 Fun Central Park Activities

Find the top sights, activities and locations in New York City's best-known green space.

NYC TOURISM PRESENTS

Save during these upcoming programs.

NYC Hotel Week

Book now for stays between Jan 2–Feb 12, 2026, and enjoy this epic city your way. From reunions to romantic weekends, group trips or solo escapes, you’ll find the perfect spot to rest and recharge in the City.

A stylized illustration of a plaid-patterned steak on a plate with two leaves, next to a cutting board holding a yellow and an orange tomato, all on a red background.
Page

NYC Restaurant Week

We’ll be back in winter 2026. Craving more? Check out Savor NYC and explore even more culinary finds citywide.

A stylized illustration of a man in a suit and bow tie dancing with a cane in one hand and holding a top hat in the other, set against an orange background with stars and a spotlight effect.
Page

NYC Broadway Week

Broadway Week returns this winter with 2-for-1 specials on tickets to beloved shows on the Great White Way. Reservations open January 7, 2026, and Winter Broadway Week runs from January 20 to February 12, 2026.

A stylized illustration of a yellow hand holding a "2 for 1 Tickets" flyer against a teal background with icons of music notes, a city skyline, a microphone, and stars.
Page

NYC Must-See Week

From January 20 through February 12, discover the best of NYC for less. Enjoy 2-for-1 tickets to attractions, museums, performing arts and tours across all five boroughs. Reservations open January 7.

NYC Off-Broadway Week

Intimate venues. Larger-than-life performances. Catch all the excitement and book your 2-for-1 tickets today with code OBW25. Ends 3/9.