Visiting New York City with kids can feel like a nonstop game of โWait, how much is that?!โ
But hereโs the good news…not everything in NYC comes with a hefty price tag.
This ultimate guide to free things to do in Manhattan (created by a local!) is packed with unique, family-friendly fun thatโll keep your crew entertained…and your wallet breathing easy.
Iconic Free Things to Do in Manhattan
Start your New York City adventure with these quintessential activities that are uniquely New York and totally free!
Ride the Staten Island Ferry
The best (and cheapest) cruise in NYC.
A budget-friendly boat ride with unbeatable views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
Location: 4 Whitehall St, New York, NYย
What to Know: Staten Island Ferries run every 15-30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Sit on the right side of the boat, heading out for the best view of the Statue of Liberty.
Try the Whisper Wall at Grand Central
Where secrets travel faster than a subway train.
Stand in the arched alcove outside the Grand Central Oyster Bar, whisper into a corner, and your voice will travel to the opposite side.
Magic? Nope. Acoustics. (but don’t tell them that)
Location: 89 E 42nd St, New York, near the Oyster Bar at Grand Central Terminal.
What to Know: With four corners, two pairs can test this eerie acoustic trick simultaneously without getting the messages mixed!
Pro Tip: Test out fun phrases or riddles – kids will be amazed when their secret message travels across the wall!
Get a Free Subway Map at Grand Central
You can grab a free NYC subway map (old school paper kind) at the Grand Central ticket counter.
Kids love these, and they can even double as fun (free) souvenirs or something to draw on at dinner.
Go to a Live Talk Show Taping
Live audience? Check. Big-name guests? Check. Price tag? Nope!
Catch your favorite TV hosts in action!
From late-night laughs to morning show buzz, these live talk show tapings in Manhattan offer a unique, behind-the-scenes experience perfect for older kids and teens.
Free Live Taping Options:
- The View
- Good Morning America
- The Kelly Clarkson Show
- The Drew Barrymore Show
- The Daily Show
- The Tonight Show
- Live with Kelly and Mark
- Late Night with Seth Meyers
- The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
- SNL (August ticket lottery)
Pro Tip: Scoring free show tickets takes strategy!
Some talk shows require booking in advance, while others have last-minute or even same-day standby spots. Check with each network for details. (most have a minimum age requirement of 16 or 18)
Get a Free Massage
A little self-care, no wallet required.
Treat yourself to a luxurious 20-minute hand and arm massage at Jo Malone London…it’s completely free! Itโs the perfect mini escape while exploring the city.
What to Know: Free massages are offered at Brookfield Place, Columbus Circle, Hudson Yards, and Upper East Side locations.
Pro Tip: Appointments are required, so book your free massage beforehand to secure your spot.
After a long day of exploring NYC, the last thing you want is to feel crammed in a tiny hotel room. These Spacious Stays in Manhattanย give you plenty of room to unwind while keeping you close to the action.
The Best Playgrounds and Parks in Manhattan
Explore the best free outdoor spaces in Manhattan where kids can climb, slide, and play.
Pier 26 Science Playground
A playground shaped like a fish? Only in NYC.
Climb nets, crawl through giant sturgeon sculptures, and get hands-on with Hudson River wildlife at this interactive science-themed playground along Manhattanโs waterfront.
Location: Hudson River Park
Pro Tip: After conquering the giant fish at Pier 26, take a short stroll to Pier 25 for mini golf, a skate park, and more waterfront fun.
Movie buff? The iconic Ghostbusters Firehouse is just a few blocks away!
Explore the 21 Playgrounds of Central Park
Nature, playgrounds, and endless energyโCentral Park is kid heaven.
Central Park is one giant playground for families. Whether climbing, sliding, or just soaking it all in, this NYC icon is a must-visit and 100% free!
Top Family Spots in Central Park:
- Heckscher Playground – The largest playground in the park, with epic slides, water play, and rock formations to climb.
- Billy Johnson Playground – Home to the famous granite slide and a charming, nature-inspired design.
- Ancient Playground – An Egyptian-themed adventure near the Met, with climbing pyramids and a splash area.
- Any of the 21 playgrounds (yes, 21!) ~ each with something different to explore.
Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and a ball for some classic NYC fun on the Great Lawn.
Hungry after all that play? These Fun Restaurants near Times Square turn mealtime into an experience the whole family will love.
Slide Down Battery Playscape
Who needs an amusement park when you have slides like these?
Battery Playscape takes playground fun to the next level with massive slides, climbable landscapes, and splash zones that make downtown NYC feel like an adventure course.
Location: 20 State St, New York, NY 10004
Pro Tip: Shade is scarce, so bring sunscreen and hats for sunny days. Afterward, stroll through Battery Park or hop on the Staten Island Ferry for a free skyline cruise!
The High Line
A park in the sky? Yes, and itโs free!
What was once an abandoned rail line is now one of the coolest walking paths in NYC. The High Line is an elevated 1.45-mile walkway packed with lush greenery, city views, and cool public art.
Location: Runs from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street on Manhattanโs West Side
Pro Tip: The High Line is stroller-friendly, but it can get busy. Head there early or on weekdays for a more chill vibe.
Free Things to do in Manhattan on the Waterfront
Manhattanโs waterfront is packed with free adventures waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re kayaking on the Hudson, hitting a skate park, or relaxing on a sandy beach in Manhattan, every adventure is fun and completely free!
Free Kayaking on the Hudson
Paddling with a view (and zero rental fees).
Enjoy free kayaking on the Hudson from May through October at two convenient spots.
No experience? No problem…just show up and paddle!
Free Kayaking Locations:
Pier 96: Manhattan Community Boathouse
Pier 26: Downtown Boathouse
What to Know: All equipment, including life jackets, is provided, and basic instructions are given before you paddle.
Sessions last about 20 minutes. Thereโs no age minimum, but kids must be able to swim, and those under 13 must ride in a kayak with an adult.
Pro Tip: Arrive early on sunny days as itโs first-come, first-served.
Have a Beach Day in Manhattan
Sand, skyline, and zero entrance feeโwelcome to Manhattanโs beach.
A beach in Manhattan? And, it’s free!
Swap the sidewalks for sand at Hudson River’s Gansevoort Peninsula, where kids can dig, explore, and soak up rare waterfront vibes…no subway ride to the shore required.
Location: Gansevoort Beach, along the Hudson River between Pier 51 and Pier 53.
Pro Tip: Bring a few sand toys and let the kids dig away while you kick back…because a beach day in Manhattan is too rare not to savor.
Pier 57 Discovery Tank and Rooftop Park
Skyline views, waterfront breezes, and a perfect sunset spot.
Indoor and outdoor adventures, all in one spot!
Hudson River Parkโs Pier 57 offers a double dose of fun. Theย Discovery Tank features hands-on marine exhibits inside, while the rooftop park serves up unbeatable Manhattan views.
Location: 25 11th Ave Pier 57, New York, NY 10011
What to Know: Pier 57โs rooftop park is free and open daily from 6 am to 1 am.
On the main level, Market 57, a food hall with a curated lineup of local vendors, is the perfect spot to grab a bite after your waterfront adventure.
Pro Tip: Hungry for more? Stroll over to nearby Chelsea Market for even more delicious foodie finds.
Visit a Skate Park
Whether your kids are beginners, seasoned skaters, or just love to watch, Manhattan’s skateparks along the Hudson River deliver fun for all skill levels.
Top Skateparks Along the Waterfront:
Tribeca Skatepark (Pier 25): A street-style park with plenty of ramps, ledges, and railsโperfect for ollies and grinds.
Pier 62 Skatepark: A California-style bowl ideal for mastering tricks and carving lines.
What to Know: Both skateparks are open and free daily from 8 am until dusk. Rollerbladers are welcome too!
Free Entertainment in NYC
Catch free shows, movies, and live music in the heart of New York Cityโbecause the best entertainment doesnโt always come with a ticket price.
Free Summer Concerts
Live music, city lights, and good vibesโall for free.
Manhattan brings the music…without the ticket price. From indie bands to full orchestras, free concerts pop up all over the city all summer long.
Hereโs Where Watch Free Concerts:
Central Parkโs Summer Stage: Rumsey Playfield near 5th Avenue and 72nd Street. (Summer Stage Line Up)
Bryant Park: Free live music takes over the Lawn Fridays and Saturdays at 7 pm from June through September. (Bryant Park’s Picnic Performances)ย
Rockefeller Center: Friday mornings outside of The Today Show (Citi Concert Series Line Up)
Hudson Yards: 8 weeks of free summer concerts in the Public Square and Gardens (Wells Fargo Summer Stage Lineup)
Free Outdoor Summer Movies
Watch family-friendly films under the stars with the New York City skyline stealing the show in the background.
Where to Watch Free Movies:
Bryant Park: Weekly Monday night movies on the lawn at 8 pm from June – August.
Intrepid Museum: Monthly Friday night blockbusters on the flight deck.
Pier 17 Rooftop: Monthly Monday night scenic waterfront screenings.
Oculus Outdoors: Select Fridays at 7 pm and Saturdays at 2 pm, enjoy modern vibes meet cinematic favorites.
Pro Tip: Bring blankets and snacks for a cozy movie experience, arrive early to snag a good spot!
Free Shakespeare in the Park
Experience one of the best free things to do in Manhattan…live theater under the stars at Central Parkโs iconic Delacorte Theater, where Broadway-worthy performances meet open-air magic.
What to Know: Tickets are free but limited. There are multiple ways to snag them –ย check out this guide for the best strategies.
Pro Tip: The best way to snag tickets is to line up outside the Delacorte Theater the morning of the show.
Die-hard fans arrive as early as 6 am, and if you roll up after 10 am, your chances arenโt great. Each guest can only claim two tickets, so plan accordingly!
Free Things to do in Manhattan For a Dose of Culture
Add a little learning and adventure to your day with these inspiring, and totally free things to do in Manhattan…because who says fun and education canโt go hand in hand?
Free Manhattan Museums
Art, science, and historyโwithout the admission fee
Add a little culture to your New York City adventure.
- Museum of the American Indian (always free)
- American Folk Art Museum (always free)
- Museum at FIT (always free)
- Museum of Jewish Heritage (Thursdays 4 – 8 pm)
- Whitney Museum of American Art (Fridays 5 – 10 pm, 2nd Sunday of the month and under 25 is always free)
- Japan Society (First Friday of the Month 7 – 9 pm)
- Museum of the City of New York (Every Wednesday)
- MoMA (NY residents, Fridays 5:30 – 8:30 pm)
- Neue Galerie (Fridays 5 – 8 pm)
- 9/11 Memorial and Museum (Mondays 5:30 – 7 pm)
- Poster House (first Friday of the month)
- Intrepid Museum (select summer Fridays)
- Museum at Eldridge Street (pay what you wish)
- South Street Seaport Museum (pay what you wish)
- Museum of Chinese in America (always free)
- The Morgan Library and Museum (Fridays 5โ8 pm)
Pro Tip: Many of these museums require advance registration for free tickets, so donโt expect to just walk in…plan ahead to guarantee your spot!
Canโt get enough of NYCโs amazing museums? Our list of the Coolest Museums in Manhattan has even more spots to explore.
Essex Market
Food, fun, and free classes! Essex Market offers weekly cooking and nutrition workshops for families, plus unique free events throughout the year.
What to Know: Classes are hands-on and great for families. Check Essex Marketโs website for schedules.
Pro Tip: While you’re there, explore the market stalls for foodie finds!
Free Things to do in Manhattan for Indoor Fun
Tap into your familyโs creative side with hands-on indoor activities that spark imagination…without spending a dime.
Itโs a fun and free way to stay entertained while keeping things cozy inside!
Where to Go For Storytime in NYC
When โonce upon a timeโ comes with a zero-dollar price tag.
Let someone else do the reading so you can focus on the snuggles! These Manhattan bookstores offer free story times that kids love.
Books of Wonder: Weekly, weekend story times filled with adventure and imagination. (Upcoming Events)ย
The Strand: Free story times by visiting authors.
McNally Jackson Books:
Soho: Tuesdays at 3 pm, Fridays at 11 am.
Rockefeller Center: Saturdays at 2 pm.
The Best New York Public Library Spaces
Free books, comfy reading nooks, and Whereโs Waldo watching over you.
With nearly 100 New York Public Library branches in Manhattan, these are the coziest spots for kids to read, imagine, and explore…perfect for a quiet (and free) indoor escape!
42nd Street New York Public Library Childrenโs Room: A magical space filled with books, puzzles, and kid-sized seating.
53rd Street New York Public Library Childrenโs Room: A bright, welcoming space with story times and activities for little readers.
Free Building Workshops at Home Depot
Head to Home Depot and let your little builders get hands-on with fun (and free) DIY projects they can take home.
Where: Home Depot located at 40 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10010
When: 9 am – 12 pm on the first Saturday of every month.
What to Know: Projects range from birdhouses to toolboxes, and all supplies are provided for free.
Pro Tip: Register in advance and arrive early…supplies are limited, and spots fill up quickly!
Nintendo Store Gaming Zone
Level up your Manhattan visitโno coins required.
Step into a world of pixels and power-ups at Nintendo New York, the ultimate gaming destination in Manhattan. With two floors packed with interactive gaming stations, nostalgic memorabilia, and exclusive merch, this is a must-visit for Nintendo fans of all ages.
Location: 10 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020
What to Know: Test out new games, dive into Nintendo history, and chat with Nintendo Ambassadors who know all the latest releases.
Pro Tip: Weekends can get crowded, so visit on a weekday for more hands-on time at the gaming stations.
Play with Toys at FAO Schwarz
FAO Schwarz is a legendary New York City toy store where kids can try out giant pianos, explore plush displays, and play with interactive toys – no purchase required. (โฆgood luck)
Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
What to Know: Located at Rockefeller Plaza, itโs a must-visit for families exploring Midtown.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds, especially if you want a turn on the iconic giant piano without waiting in line!
Hidden Midtown Oasis (Ford Foundation Atrium)
Yes, this jungle exists in the middle of Manhattan. No, you donโt need a ticket.
Step into this hidden indoor garden at the Ford Foundation Atrium in Midtown for a serene escape from the city buzz.
Location: 320 E. 43rd Street, New York, NY
What to Know: Check in with security before exploring this peaceful (free) oasis. It is open Monday through Friday from 11 am to 6 pm
Pro Tip: This is the only free public restroom in the neighborhood!
Cost-Saving Tips for Families Visiting NYC
โ Mix Free Fun with Splurges That Matter
Plan your day around free activities like exploring Central Park or riding the Staten Island Ferry, then save your spending for experiences your family will talk about for years, like visiting a Broadway show or a hands-on museum.
โ Make Meals an Adventure
Skip the fancy spots and turn meals into a fun NYC experience. Grab bagels from a local deli, share a giant slice of pizza, or visit a food market like Chelsea Market where everyone can pick their favorite dish.
โ Use Public Transport Like a Pro
Taxis and rideshares add up fast. Grab an unlimited MetroCard and take the subway or buses to get around quickly and cheaply. Itโs also a fun city adventure for kids to ride the subway like a local.
โ Book Attractions Wisely
If thereโs a must-see spot, book tickets online in advance to snag discounts or family bundles. For museums, check for free or pay-what-you-wish days to get the most out of your visit.
โ Think Outside the Tourist Box
Explore neighborhoods like the Upper West Side, Chinatown, or lower Manhattan for local gems, delicious eats, and fewer crowds. Itโs a great way to balance classic NYC with off-the-beaten-path experiences.
โ Keep Snacks on Hand, Always
Hungry kids can derail even the best-laid plans. Stock your bag with snacks from a local bodega and bring refillable water bottles to avoid pricey impulse buys.
โ Plan Around Free Events
NYC is bursting with free festivals, concerts, and outdoor movie nights. Do a quick search before your trip to see whatโs happening during your stay…itโs a great way to add something extra to your itinerary.
โ Give Kids (and Yourself) a Budget
Set a daily spending limit for things like souvenirs or snacks. Letting kids manage their own small allowance can make them feel involved while keeping costs in check.
Happy Travelsโฆ
