The Ultimate New York City Budget Travel Guide
New York City is one of the most visited cities in the United States and home to many delicious restaurants, entertaining Broadway shows, and famous landmarks. It is very easy to spend a large chunk of change when visiting the city, so here are my top tips and tricks to staying on a budget while getting the full NYC experience.
1. The Vessel
The Vessel is one attraction you do not want to miss. This large art piece is a stunning work of art with bronze mirrored walls and waved layers. The Vessel is completely FREE to view from the outside, there is a $10 ticket price if you choose to visit the inside.
2. Walk Along High Line
The High Line is a great place to escape the city and enjoy some greenery. This 1.45 mile-long walking path was once an old railroad, and still has some of the old tracks. The High Line trail is absolutely FREE and a great place to run, walk, and enjoy the sunshine.
3. Enjoy the New York Style Buildings
New York has a wide variety of building, all are stunning in their own unique way.
4. Little Island at Pier 55
Little Island is a man-made artificial island with a large park and views of the Hudson River. On the island you will find a large amphitheater, food stands, and maybe on a clear day, you can spot the Statue of Liberty. This is a FREE place to visit and a quick walk from the nearby Chelsea Market.
5. 99¢ Pizza
The famous 99¢ pizza is everywhere in New York. You can find small shops on almost every other corner. This is the perfect cheap late-night snack.
6. Little Italy
If you are looking for a bit more Italian food head over to Little Italy. This Italian-filled neighborhood will surely fulfill your craving. In the middle of September, there is a two-week festival that takes place every day called The Feast of San Gennaro. Decorated red, white, and green booths line the streets offering traditional Italian bites
7. China Town
If you are looking for a cheap, delicious, authentic bite to eat then head over to China Town for some homemade dumplings. My favorite place for dumplings is Shu Jiao Fu Zhou. They are full of flavor, tender, and delicious. One small portion (6 dumplings) will run you a whopping $2.75. Make sure to bring cash!
8. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
You cannot visit New York City without seeing the Brooklyn Bridge. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is absolutely FREE and a great way to see the city from a distance.
9. Time Square
This top tourist destination is a must-see during your visit to the big city. You will be surrounded by tall buildings, flashing lights, popular stores, and more!
10. Levain Bakery
Levain Bakery is a staple with their well-known sinfully delicious cookies. With a variety of locations, you cannot miss these tasty treats. One cookie will cost you $4.00, which sounds a bit high for a cookie but this one cookie will change your life!
11. Oculus
Oculus is a shopping mall in the southern part of NYC. This large sculpture is a gorgeous piece of art that is FREE to enter. This stunning building is also the World Trade Center’s transportation hub.
12. 9/11 Memorial
After visiting Oculus, head on over to the 9/11 Memorial. This is one thing you must see when visiting NYC. These historical sites are stunning and make you take a step back from the bustling city and remember the major event. Two large water features sit where the twin towers once stood with a metal perimeter with the many people that were lost. This open area is FREE to the public.
13. Ferry to Astoria or Coney Island
Take the NYC Ferry to Coney Island for a fun-filled day trip. Along the way to Coney Island, you will get to see the Statue of Liberty. If you do not have time for a day trip to Coney Island then take the NYC Ferry to Astoria at night. This is the cheapest way to see the skyscrapers lit up. You can make it a romantic date night by bringing some snacks and drinks. A one-way trip to either location is an easy $2.75 per adult.
14. Discounted Broadway Tickets
Get same-day Broadway tickets at the TKTS ticket booth located in the heart of Times Square. These tickets are up to 50% off the original ticket price making Broadway an easy visit. I know I love a good deal, and if you do too, make sure to get there early in the morning because they will sell out. Tickets are only sold in person and cannot be purchased online.
15. Yankees Game
A Yankees game is a fun thing to do that can be done at a very low cost. We purchased our tickets for $4.00 each and had a fantastic time rooting on the Yankees.
16. Central Park
Amongst the many skyscrapers lies Central Park. This vast park stretches 843 acres and is home to endless running paths, a zoo, many ponds, and open fields of green grass.
17. New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is not your ordinary library. The tall stone walls and the intricate ceiling is stunning. The public library is FREE to enter.
A Foodies Guide to NYC
