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One of the best times of year to visit New York is in the summer months when you can make the most of the outdoors and you don’t have to spend a fortune to do so. Whether you’re in the city for a day or visiting for a couple of weeks, there is plenty to do all over the city that won’t cost you a single cent.

But what are the best free things to enjoy in the Big Apple this summer? 

Walk the High Line 

The Highline is one of the city’s newest parks, located on an elevated former rail line. The park's location offers unique views across the city and the Hudson River. It is the perfect place to take an afternoon stroll, enjoy a picnic, or explore the art installations within the park - completely for free. 

Explore Central Park 

No trip to New York is complete without a trip to Central Park - perhaps the most famous park in the world. Visit iconic landmarks like The Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and Strawberry Fields, or simply take a stroll through one of the many trails in the park. While it isn’t free, bike hire is relatively cheap in the park, starting at $11 an hour. 

Attend a Free Concert or Movie in the Park 

One of the best things about visiting New York in the summer is the free concerts and movies in the park. Catch a film or watch a concert at the free weekly events in Bryant Park, Prospect Park, and Central Park. You can find out more about the schedule here.

Visit the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges 

The Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges are the city’s most famous bridges, and both can be crossed on foot. For a great free activity, walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn on the Brooklyn Bridge, and back across the Manhattan Bridge. Both bridges offer amazing views across the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines - especially at sunset. 

Explore Museums During Free Hours

New York is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the world - but costs can quickly add up if you intend to visit them all. However, many of New York’s museums and galleries offer free admission during certain hours or on certain days. For example, the MoMA is free on Friday evenings, while the Brooklyn Museum is free on the first Saturday of each month. 

Tour the New York Public Library

The New York Public Library has a handful of locations across the city, but perhaps the best is the main branch at Bryant Park. Visit the reading rooms and the rotating exhibitions entirely for free. 

Discover Street Art in Bushwick 

If you’re a big fan of street art, don’t miss a trip to Bushwick in Brooklyn. The area is well-known for its vibrant street art scene. Visit the area around the Bushwick Collective for the best murals and graffiti. 

Take a Ride on the Staten Island Ferry 

The Staten Island Ferry is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan Skyline for free. The commuter ferry runs every half an hour, 24 hours a day, all year round. For the best views of Lady Liberty, head to the right side of the boat, and for the best views of the skyline stand at the back of the ferry.  

Visit Roosevelt Island 

Roosevelt Island is located on the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn. While it’s not free, you can take the aerial tramway to the island for the same price as a subway ride. The views from the tram are some of the best in the city and once you reach the island you can enjoy a great view of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines. 

Watch the Sunset at DUMBO 

The Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is one of the best places to catch the sunset in the city - entirely for free. Pebble Beach, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and Water Street all offer unique views and great photo opportunities. 

Are you planning a trip to New York? The Hotel Beacon is located on the Upper West Side in the heart of the city - the perfect base for your next stay in the city.