As one of the most expensive cities in the world, New York can be a pretty difficult place to enjoy yourself without too much spending cash. Living in the city and constantly hearing about Time Square can get quite annoying and as all New Yorkers know, Time Square is a place for tourists. Living in one of the most toured places in the world can get quite boring unless you have this list of 10 free different and fun things to do all across the 5 boroughs, in which case it's really quite fun!
1. Be Part of a Television Studio Audience
Ever wanted to be on TV? Well, NYC is the place for that. Countless TV shows are shot in New York, many even before live studio audiences. Tickets go fast for these shows, but if you plan well in advance you are likely to get free tickets to see your favorite stars. Some of my favorites include "The View," "The Daily Show," "The Colbert Report,", "Saturday Night Live," "The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon," "Dr. Oz," “Live! With Kelly and Michael," "Good Morning America," "The Early Show" and "Today”. You can also see Jerry Springer, Maury and Steve Wilkos by taking a free shuttle to Connecticut. Just visit their websites for ticket information.
2. National Puerto Rican Day Parade - June 12
The parade up Fifth Avenue celebrates the Puerto Rican community and culture, which connects the millions of Puerto Ricans living in New York City and across the United States with their compatriots in the Caribbean. "Lively" doesn't even begin to describe this event, which attracts tens of thousands of marchers and millions of spectators every year and includes energetic musical performances, floats and a host of Puerto Rican celebrities. For more information, visit nprdpinc.org.
3. The Bronx Zoo - Wednesdays
The Bronx Zoo offers free admission on Wednesdays. A donation is suggested, but if you can't afford it, that is totally fine because admission to New York’s largest zoo is totally free. With nearly 4,000 animals on 265 acres, there’s plenty for you to see. Remember to bring money for food and souvenirs.
4. Staten Island Ferry
Ever wanted to see the statue of liberty up close? Well now you can! The Staten Island Ferry is free all day every day. The five-mile, 25 minute ride gives you majestic views of New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island plus the skyscrapers and bridges of Manhattan. You can check http://www.siferry.com/schedules.html for departure times.
5. African Burial Ground
This is one of the most historic but least talked about landmarks in New York City. Between the 16th and 17th century, over 15,000 free and enslaved Africans were buried in an area in Manhattan. The interactive visitor center, specially commissioned artwork, and outdoor memorial offer an in depth understanding of how, when, and why enslaved and free Africans were using the African Burial Ground during the 17th and 18th centuries.
6. The Bronx Museum
In this museum, contemporary art from cultures around the world is showcased at the Bronx museum. Admission is always free. Check out their website for what events they host weekly.
7. Summer Salsa Saturdays - June 11
Just down the street from the Bronx Museum, join Lorenz Latin Dance Studio for some fun in the sun at the Target Bronx Community Garden where professional dancers will lead a FREE salsa class from followed by a performance by salsa band "Retumba!"
8. Yoga!
This one is for all those that are still trying to get that summer body. Every Sunday morning, Lululemon Union Square hosts its very own free yoga classes, even including mats at no charge. There are different instructors on a monthly basis, representing a variety of studios and styles. Classes begin at 9:30am. For more information, visit lululemon.com.
9. Beach Volleyball
From 8am-7pm, feel the sand beneath your toes as you race to spike the ball over the net at the three regulation-sized courts on Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park Just make sure to keep your eye on the ball and not the beautiful lower Manhattan. For more information visit http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/activities/volle...
10. Central Park
Last and definitely not least, my personal favorite, Central Park!! This is one of New York City's most breathtaking and celebrated attractions, Central Park is a definite must-see for anyone visiting the five boroughs this summer. Whether you want to hang out with old or new friends or you just want to take a long walk by yourself, this is the park for it. There are a range of outdoor activities you can enjoy there, from hiking and biking to simply lounging on a picnic blanket and listening to a live concert. During the summer, there is a series of free concerts, too! For more information, visit centralparknyc.org.
