Fun Free Stuff to do in Manhattan

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Ranked #52 in Travel, #2,073 overall

Everyone talks about how expensive New York is, but there are plenty of free activities to choose from! Here's a list of fun, free activities to check out while you're in the city.

Sites to Check Out

CitySearch- New York: Guide to restaurants, bars, shopping, events and more. Includes tons of visitor reviews!
Craig'sList Event Calendar: Free public listings to tons of current events in New York.
Free NYC Events: Calendar of all free events happening in New York.
Yelp!: Reviews of NYC's Best Restaurants, Bars, Salons, Spas, & More!
Manhattan User's Guide: A great resource. Includes Articles; Arts & Entertainment; Food & Wine; Leisure & Sports; Services; Shopping. Subscribe for a free monthly e-newsletter.

Free Annual Events & Everyday Activities

...did I mention they are all free?

Parades:

1. The Art Parade- Held annually in September. Started in September 2005, this small, funky parade travels along West Broadway, and is sure to entertain. There are all types of floats, sculptures, kites, and performances, so be sure to bring your camera!

2. Chinese New Year Parade- Held annually every February in Chinatown. This street festival and parade features elaborate costumes, lion dances, floats, and cultural events.

3. Macy's Thanksgiving Parade

Summers Only:

Catch a free classic movie in Bryant Park every Monday night, and arrive early to mark your spot!

Central Park- Explore everywhere from Sheep's Meadow to the Reservoir, and enjoy the free music at Summerstage.

Holiday Season:

Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, window shopping along 5th Avenue, and watch the ice skaters in Central Park at Wollman Rink, Bryant Park, or Rockefeller Center.

All year-round:

Staten Island Ferry- Always free and a great view of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

MoMA- Although normally $20 for adult admissions, on Friday afternoons from 4-8pm, MoMA is free for everyone!

Walk around- Exploring the city is usually visitors' favorite thing to do. Walk through Chinatown, SoHo, East Village, Financial District, Chelsea, and more- you'll feel like you're in different cities!