New York City
New York City is one of the world's great metropolises, and while it has a reputation for being expensive, savvy travelers can experience world-class museums, iconic skylines, and legendary food scenes on a surprisingly modest budget. Free attractions, cheap eats in every borough, and a robust subway system make NYC accessible without breaking the bank.
Why go to New York City
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Sail to America's most iconic symbol and walk through the moving immigration museum on Ellis Island.
Central Park
840 acres of urban escape with rowboats, free concerts, and skyline views that rival any paid attraction.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the world's greatest art collections spanning 5,000 years, from Egyptian temples to Van Gogh masterpieces.
Empire State Building Observatory
The quintessential NYC panorama, 102 floors up with views stretching to five states on a clear day.
Brooklyn Bridge Walk
Stroll across this Gothic-arched marvel for free and soak in breathtaking views of Manhattan and the harbor.
Make it real
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Good to know in New York City
- Buy an OMNY card or use contactless payment on the subway, a 7-day unlimited MetroCard costs $34 and pays for itself after just 12 rides; avoid taxis which start at $3 plus $0.70/mile.
- Tipping is culturally expected in NYC: 18-20% at sit-down restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and $2-5 for hotel housekeeping per night, budget accordingly.
- NYC tap water is among the cleanest and best-tasting in the world, always refill a reusable bottle and skip buying bottled water entirely.
- Many world-class museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish entry: the Met is pay-what-you-wish for NY state residents, MoMA is free Friday evenings 5:30-9pm, and the American Museum of Natural History suggests a donation rather than a fixed fee.