For college students life myself there is an abundance of energy to go out and explore the world. However, since we're in college there's probably one restriction on our dreams: money. I know, I know, the typical "broke college student can't do anything fun" rant, but, I'm hoping that these few suggestions can help remedy the wanderlust and encourage you to go out and explore one of the largest cities in the world that happens to only be a few minutes away from northern NJ.
You don't have to go anywhere extravagant to have a fun time. If you live in the upper NJ/NY area near NYC here are a few things for everyone (especially college students) to enjoy.
1. How you're going to get there.
Ditch the car and bus. If you haven't already, take the Metro. It's a whole other world that in itself is an experience to try. For the common-folk who take it often, it may not seem all too special; but, for those who don't, it's quite the sight. The Metro is about $2.75 and you can have a card you can keep refilling for every visit.
If you are in NJ, there's particularly fun way to cross the river for an affordable price. I recently had a spur-of-the-moment experience and rode an extremely affordable ferry ride across the Hudson River from Exchange Place in Jersey City to the Manhattan World Center Area. For this terminal in particular, it's super cheap to get across ($6-$4). They have more terminals in Hoboken and Edgewater (but they're a little more costly). It's super fun and the views are spectacular.
2. Visit a college town.
The more I visit NYC and explore around I've noticed that the best shops and places to lounge around are particularly near major universities such as NYU, Pace University, FIT, Columbia, CCNY, and so on. If you're not into the touristy places (I don't blame you, sooo crowded), this is a great alternative. I found that because the shops cater to the college students nearby, their prices are generally cheaper, especially for food. This applies to novelty stores as well. Recently, I found this hidden gem of a comic book store who's owner is super nice and even gave me a great deal on a few Marvel comics. For you superhero/comic fans check out Mysterious Time Machine near the NYU area, its absolutely great.
3. MUSEUMS!
One of the best parts of NYC is that they have random museums dedicated to different likes and if you're a student they will most likely have cheaper rates! You have your popular museums like the MOMA (Students $14), the Met (Students $12) or the American Museum of Natural History ($17). Then, there are the smaller ones such as the Whitney Museum of American Art (Students $18), Museum of the Moving Image (Students $11), and the National September 11 Museum and Memorial (Students $18). ** If you're feeling super bold, there's the Museum of Sex (Students ~$17). Granted, the name is a bit off-putting, but I promise it'll really open your eyes to a whole other world that you'd never thought you would explore in such an informative way. Personally, it was one of my favorite experiences so far. Once you get past all the giggling.
4. Parks
(It's not just a Concrete Jungle). It doesn't seem like much to do, but on a great day, the atmosphere in a city park can be one of the best feelings in the world. There'sdogs everywhere, people just lounging around, maybe even picnicking, and sometimes a person here or there playing an instrument. While you're visiting you can even head over to the zoos which also inexpensive and super fun!
5. One word: Smorgasburg.
For all you foodies, this is probably one of the best places to visit to try different vendors at affordable prices. Located in Williamsburg at the East River State Park, it's a great view of the water encompassed with the tasty smells of the wonderful food around you. It's practically a flea market but for food. Affordable, tasty, and has a bit of everything for everyone.
6. Try random activities - maybe kayaking on the Hudson.
I mean, it is free kayaking season after all - at Pier 26 - until October 10.
7. Citibikes.
This is probably one of the coolest things that has recently been integrated in the metro area. For just $12 you can purchase a day pass to take out a Citibike for 30 minutes at a time for as many times as you want within 24 hours. I found this to be such a great activity because they have bike stations very close to each other all over New York City and Jersey City. Not only is it great exercise, but it is such a convenient way to get around the city. Definitely cheaper than an Uber or a taxi and way faster than walking.
I've had the privilege of living near the city all my life and each time I visit I'm always amazed at what I find whenever I go. So if you're not going on a huge vacation this summer you can still have tons of fun just a few minutes away! Hope these suggestions help you plan out your next adventure!
