NYC on the Cheap

While many people think of NYC as an expensive place to visit there is actually a lot to do on the cheap and even for free- especially in the summer.  With so many NYC hotels offering reduced rates, the start of NYC Restaurant week upon us, and so many free arts and cultural events you can spend a few days in the city without breaking the bank.  The team at Best Travel Deals has put together a list of free and low cost things to do in NYC to help you plan your trip.

New York City Restaurant Week

 July 12th is the start of NYC Restaurant week, which runs through July 31st.  Over 250 restaurants throughout the city participate and offer low prices and prixe fix menus.  You can get some amazing meals at great restaurants for low prices.  Combine these great deals with a hotel offering free breakfast and grabbing a light lunch on the go you can eat well for little money.  You can book reservations in advance by following the NYC & Co. twitter stream.

Things to Do

NYC is the arts and cultural capital of the world.  There are so many museums, historical sites, and events you can find something free to do everyday of the week. 

During the summer months many of NYC parks and landmarks host free concerts and performances.  One of the most popular events is Shakespeare in the Park.  This year’s series features Academy Award Nominee Anne Hathaway starring as Viola in the Twelfth Night and has gotten rave reviews.

On Thursday nights the Brooklyn Bridge Park hosts Movies with a View.  Watch movies under the stars and enjoy a breathtaking view.

If a Broadway performance is more your speed, you can spend Thursday evenings in Bryant Park instead.  The most popular shows perform some of their biggest hits in the park.   

If you love to dance or are a beginner who just wants to have fun July 7-25th Lincoln Center hosts a MidSummer Nights Swing showcasing some of the finest musicians and DJ’s from this country and abroad.

Many museums offer free admission or pay what you wish days.  It is possible to see a different museum everyday for free.  On Tuesdays and Saturday the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens offers free admission.  You can easily spend the afternoon strolling through thier many beautiful gardens.  Or take a free ride out to Staten Island on the Staten Island Ferry and visit the Staten Island Museum, located only 2 blocks from the ferry terminal.   On Wednesday the Bronx Zoo offers pay what you wish with suggested donations for kids starting at $11.  Thursdays its pay what you wish at the Children’s Museum of Art from 4- 6pm.  Fridays from 4-8 pm you can visit the Museum of Modern Art for free.  Saturdays check out the Guggenheim Museum in the evening for free admission.