New York City. The city so nice they named it twice! Before we show you frugal, cheap, and free things to do and see in New York City let’s look at the first paragraph from Wikipedia:
New York City (officially The City of New York) is the largest city in the United States, with its metropolitan area ranking among the largest urban areas in the world. Founded as a commercial trading post by the Dutch in 1625, it served as the capital of the United States from 1785 until 1790, and has been the nation’s largest city since 1790. Located on one of the world’s finest natural harbors, New York is one of the world’s major centers of commerce and finance. New York also exerts global influence in media, education, entertainment, arts, fashion and advertising. The city is also a major center for international affairs, hosting the headquarters of the United Nations.
Pretty cool, huh?
NYC is made up of five boroughs – Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island – though many people mean Manhattan when they say NYC. All but the Bronx are islands.
So here are Frugal And Free Things To Do And See In New York City (in no particular order):
CENTRAL PARK
With 843 acres of gardens, open spaces, water and pathways, Central Park is a great place to escape from the tall buildings and chaos of New York City streets. The Central Park Conservancy's free walking tours are a great way to get acquainted with Central Park, but there are many other ways to enjoy Central Park, including having a picnic in Central Park and wandering around on your own with the help of Central Park Map.
GRAND CENTRAL STATION
First built in 1913, Grand Central was saved from destruction by New York's landmark laws and vocal New Yorkers, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Brendan Gill, who wanted to see Grand Central restored. Extensive efforts to restore and revive this National Historic Landmark lead to its re-dedication on October 1, 1998 when Grand Central Terminal had been restored to its original glory.
NEW YORK CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
The New York Public Library was the largest marble building ever built in the U.S. when it opened in 1911, using 530,000 cubic feet of marble.
This Beaux-Arts building was the largest marble building in the U.S. at the time of its construction in 1911. In addition to beautiful architecture and an impressive book collection, the museum is features temporary exhibits on a variety of topics.
FEDERAL RESERVE BANK
You'll get to see the gold vault, trading desk, and a multimedia trading exhibit when you visit this neo-Renaissance building erected in 1924. Tour offers a great introduction to what the Federal Reserve does and the role it plays in the economy. Access to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is available by guided tour and only with advanced reservations.
TIME SQUARE
Over 26 million people visit Times Square each year, some to attend the area's many Broadway shows, some to dine, and all to experience the glowing lights and energy of this famed area. The best Times Square experience is after sunset when the glowing lights and din are at their most impressive.
ROCKEFELLER CENTER
Built primarily during the Great Depression, the construction of Rockefeller Center provided much needed employment. Rockefeller Center has continued to be an important New York City complex and visitors can enjoy the Art Deco architecture and the art work integrated throughout the area.
CHRYSLER BUILDING
Built between 1928 and 1930, William Van Alen's art deco building is truly a New York icon. There's no observation deck, but the lobby of the Chrysler Building is worth a visit to see the ceiling mural.
ST. PATRICK'S CATHEDRAL
After over 20 years of construction, St. Patrick's Cathedral first opened its doors in May 1879. St. Patrick's Cathedral is the largest decorated Gothic-style Catholic Cathedral in the United States and seats 2200 people.
THE CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF ST. JOHN THE DIVINE
The largest Gothic Cathedral in the world, a visit to St. John the Divine is well worth the trip to Morningside Heights. Don't forget to explore the grounds to see the Peace Fountain and the Biblical Garden.
THE COPPER UNION
The only private, full-scholarship college in the U.S. educating students for the professions of art, architecture and engineering, The Cooper Union opened in 1859 with the goal of educating working-class men and women in New York City. Founder Peter Cooper, who was one of America's richest businessmen, had less than a year of formal schooling and couldn't spell. In the mid-1800's, he used his success to build The Cooper Union to give access to education to the children of immigrants and working class families.