Fun & Free NYC

Biking through Central Park is one of the best ways to explore its scenic beauty, with 6.1 miles of car-free loops, rolling hills, and iconic landmarks. Ride past Bethesda Terrace, glide around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, and take in the cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant foliage in fall. For a leisurely route, stick to the main loop, or venture onto winding paths like The Mall or Strawberry Fields. Bike rentals are available at multiple locations, and guided tours offer insider history and hidden gems. 

Catching free performances in NYC is a summer tradition, with Bryant Park and Shakespeare in the Park offering some of the best experiences. Bryant Park’s Picnic Performances feature live music, dance, and theater under the stars, while the Delacorte Theater in Central Park hosts Shakespeare in the Park, where you can watch world-class actors bring the Bard’s works to life—all for free! 

Kayaking on the Hudson River is one of NYC’s best free outdoor activities, offering stunning skyline views and a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle. Paddlers of all levels can launch from Pier 26, Pier 96, or Brooklyn Bridge Park, with free kayak rentals provided by local nonprofits like the Downtown Boathouse and Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse. Whether you're gliding past skyscrapers at sunset or enjoying a peaceful morning on the water, it’s a unique way to experience NYC from a whole new perspective—no experience (or wallet) required!

Once an abandoned railway, and now a lush urban escape, the High Line offers one of the most unique walks in New York City. Elevated above the streets, this 1.45-mile park weaves through Manhattan’s west side, blending art, architecture, and nature. 

Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, Governors Island is a peaceful escape from the city’s fast pace. With car-free paths, lush green spaces, and stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, this historic island offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. You can bike along the waterfront, lounge in a hammock, or explore art installations, all right in the New York Harbor. 

Upstate New York offers some of the best hiking in the Northeast. Whether you're chasing waterfalls at Kaaterskill Falls, wandering the scenic trails of Anthony’s Nose, or enjoying the sweeping Hudson Valley views from Bear Mountain, there’s a trail for every adventurer.

These hikes are accessible by public transit from NYC:

• Kaaterskill Falls – Take a Trailways bus from NYC to Hunter or Tannersville, then a short taxi or rideshare.

• Anthony’s Nose – Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Manitou (limited service) or Peekskill, then a short walk or taxi to the trailhead.

• Bear Mountain – Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Peekskill or Garrison, then grab a short taxi or weekend shuttle.

Tucked away in Fort Tryon Park, The Cloisters transports you to medieval Europe without leaving New York City. A branch of The Met, this hidden gem showcases stunning medieval art, serene gardens, and breathtaking Hudson River views. Wander through centuries-old architecture, admire the famous Unicorn Tapestries, and experience a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. 

Reminder: Admission follows The Met’s pay-what-you-wish policy for New York State residents and NY, NJ, and CT students with valid ID.

Nestled between Harlem and Morningside Heights, Morningside Park is a peaceful retreat with dramatic cliffs, winding pathways, and a scenic pond. Grab coffee at Cafe Amrita, and take a morning stroll, where you can spot turtles in the water, enjoy the vibrant community and a quiet escape from the city's fast pace. With playgrounds, basketball courts, and stunning views of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, it’s a local favorite worth exploring.

The Hungarian Pastry Shop offers a charming escape with a delightful selection of traditional pastries, aromatic coffee, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for its strudels, cakes, and rich Hungarian sweets, it’s the perfect spot to relax or catch up on reading while enjoying the rich flavors of Europe.

Looking to stay on the Upper West Side this weekend? Stock up on fresh produce at the 77/79th Street Greenmarket for a home-cooked meal or simply browse for unique items. Located just behind the American Museum of Natural History, this year-round market is open every Sunday from 9 AM - 4 PM. 

Located on the Upper West Side, the Grand Bazaar is a vibrant marketplace where vintage lovers, craft seekers, and antique enthusiasts can find hidden gems. With over 100 vendors offering everything from unique clothing and jewelry to artwork and home decor, it’s the ideal place to hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures. Open every Sunday, this eclectic bazaar is a must-visit for those looking to explore a mix of local artisans and quirky finds, all while supporting small businesses.

A cornerstone of the Lower East Side for over 100 years, Essex Market features many local vendors who sell fresh produce and global specialty foods such as gourmet coffee, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and spices. This eclectic market is open Monday through Saturday from 8 AM - 8 PM and Sunday from 10 AM - 6 PM.

Since 1976, the Union Square Greenmarket has been bustling with energy four days a week. This market is a must-visit for food lovers and fresh produce enthusiasts and has brought together regional farmers, bakers, and artisans, offering everything from just-picked fruits and vegetables to farm-fresh dairy, handmade bread, and treats. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere and stock up on seasonal ingredients to enjoy this true New York City experience.

A literary landmark since 1927, the Strand Bookstore is a paradise for book lovers in the heart of NYC. With 18 miles of books, including rare finds and bestsellers, it’s the perfect place to get lost in the stacks. Whether you’re searching for a vintage edition, browsing staff picks, or hunting for a bargain in the dollar carts, the Strand offers an unforgettable experience for every reader.

Williamsburg:

• Brooklyn Museum
  Featuring collections ranging from Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art, it’s one of the largest museums in the city, with a strong focus on diverse artists.

DUMBO:

• The Whitney Museum of American Art
  Recently relocated to a stunning building in the Meatpacking District, this museum showcases 20th- and 21st-century American art.

Prospect Park Area:

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden
  While not strictly a museum, the garden offers exhibits on horticulture, nature, and sustainability, alongside beautiful green spaces to explore.

Astoria:

• Museum of the Moving Image
  A great stop for film, TV, and video game enthusiasts, offering exhibits on film history, technology, and media culture.

• Noguchi Museum
  Dedicated to the works of Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi, this museum combines art, architecture, and design.

• Poster House
  New York’s first museum dedicated to posters, showcasing the art of graphic design and the impact of visual media.

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park:

• Queens Museum
  Known for the New York City Panorama (a huge scale model of the city), it also hosts exhibitions on global issues, social justice, and contemporary art.

Fordham:

• The Bronx Museum of the Arts
  A contemporary art museum with a focus on artists from the Bronx, Latin America, and the Caribbean. It frequently hosts cutting-edge exhibitions.

Bronx Park:

• The New York Botanical Garden
  Another garden that doubles as a living museum, this expansive site features botanical exhibits, seasonal displays, and a beautiful landscape.

Riverdale:

• Wave Hill
  A stunning public garden and cultural center offering views of the Hudson River and exhibitions on nature, horticulture, and environmentalism.

• Hike in Van Cortlandt Park – Wooded trails and historic sites in the Bronx.

• Explore Little Island – Floating park with gardens and performance spaces.

• Venture Along the High Line – Elevated park with art and views.

• Stroll Through Riverside Park – Hudson River views and quiet trails.

• Explore the Queens Botanical Garden – Seasonal blooms and gardens.

• Visit Poe Park – Home to Edgar Allan Poe’s historic cottage.

• Central Park – Endless trails, lakes, and hidden gems.

• Prospect Park – Brooklyn’s sprawling green oasis.

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden – Seasonal cherry blossoms and conservatories.

• Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge – Classic skyline views.

• Walk Across the George Washington Bridge – Connects NYC and NJ with stunning views.

• Walk the Williamsburg Bridge – Lesser-known but great for views of Lower Manhattan.

• Brooklyn Literary Walking Tour – Explore historic literary sites.

• See an Original Banksy Piece – Street art treasure hunt.

• Visit the Flatiron Building – Iconic triangular skyscraper.

• Admire St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Neo-Gothic masterpiece.

• Socrates Sculpture Park – Outdoor contemporary art exhibitions in Queens.

• The Met Cloisters – Medieval art in Fort Tryon Park.

• Storm King Art Center – Outdoor sculpture park with rolling hills.

• Palisades Interstate Park – Hiking trails along the cliffs of the Hudson.

A Levain cookie, arguably one of the best desserts in NYC, is just a few subway stops away. The bakery’s original Upper West Side location features fresh cookies, loaf cakes, breads, and pastries.

Smorgasburg, NYC’s longstanding outdoor food festival, returns this season with locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Tap the link for more details.
 

Harlem has become a go-to destination for incredible frozen desserts, offering everything from small-batch ice cream and gelato to over-the-top shakes and ice cream sandwiches. Whether you’re craving a classic scoop or a creative twist, these neighborhood favorites have you covered.

Sugar Hill Creamery

• ​East Harlem – 1642 Lexington Ave (between 103rd & 104th Sts)
• ​​​​​​​Central Harlem – 184 Lenox Ave (between W 119th & W 120th Sts)
• Hamilton Heights – 3629 Broadway (between W 149th & W 150th Sts)

The original Harlem spot for small-batch, inventive flavors like Hello New World (caramel cookies-n-cream with vanilla wafers and Oreos) and Chairperson of the Board (blueberry cheesecake).

Fieldtrip

• Central Harlem – 109 Malcolm X Blvd (between W 115th & W 116th Sts)

This rice-focused eatery serves up a tangy, refreshing raspberry hibiscus soft serve made with rice milk—yes, it's vegan!

Harlem Shake

• Central Harlem – 100 W 124th St & Lenox Ave

A retro burger joint with a shake menu worth the trip. From classic vanilla to the signature red velvet shake, every option is made with organic Blue Marble ice cream.

With two hidden locations in New York City, See No Evil Pizza is a must-try for pizza lovers seeking bold flavors and crispy crusts. You’ll find one location tucked away at 122 First Ave in the East Village, while the other is conveniently located at 50th Street and Broadway in Midtown. Both spots offer the same mouthwatering pies made with high-quality ingredients—from classic cheese to inventive specialties. Just look for the unassuming entrances, step down into the underground spaces, and get ready to enjoy some of the best pizza in the city!

The Heights is a lively cantina-style bar and grill near Columbia University, offering rooftop seating and a laid-back vibe. A neighborhood staple, it’s a go-to spot for Tex-Mex favorites, refreshing frozen drinks, and a fun, casual atmosphere. Grab a bite, enjoy happy hour, or take in the views with friends at this uptown favorite.

More than just a coffee shop, this Washington Heights spot, The Plug, is a community hub where great coffee meets good vibes. With a sleek, modern aesthetic and a focus on high-quality, ethically sourced beans, it’s the perfect spot to grab a rich espresso, a refreshing iced matcha, or a light bite. Settle in with your laptop, grab a quick caffeine fix, and meet some of the locals that keep coming back.

A cozy, no-frills café near Columbia University, perfect for a laid-back coffee break, a casual meal, or a relaxed drink. There's a treat for every customer, whether it's a quick breakfast, a study session, or a happy hour drink. Amrita delivers a comfortable and affordable spot just steps from Morningside Park.