Comprehensive Guide to Visiting New York City for Budget Travellers

Visiting New York City for Budget Travellers

New York City, the bustling metropolis known as the Big Apple, is a dream destination for many travellers worldwide. With its iconic skyline, diverse neighbourhoods, rich cultural scene, and endless attractions, NYC offers an unparalleled experience. However, the city’s reputation for high costs can be intimidating for budget travellers. Fear not! With careful planning, savvy strategies, and a sense of adventure, exploring New York City on a budget is entirely possible. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to the Big Apple without breaking the bank.

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Accommodation

Finding affordable accommodation in New York City can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here are some budget-friendly options to consider:

Hostels:

• Hostels are a popular choice for budget travellers, offering dormitory beds or private rooms at reasonable rates.
  
• Look for hostels in Manhattan or Brooklyn, which tend to be more centrally located and offer easy access to public transportation and attractions.
  
• Popular hostels in NYC include HI New York City Hostel, The Bowery House, and Pod 51.
  
  I have personally stayed at the HI New York City Hostel (in fact it was the first hostel I have ever stayed in) I loved the community feel and it was super close to Central Park and public transport. I found it annoying that the bathrooms were down a corridor so to go to the toilet and shower can be a trek and can be annoying if you need it in the middle of the night.

Airbnb:

• Consider renting a room or apartment through Airbnb, especially if you’re travelling with a group or looking for a more home-like experience.
  
• Look for listings in neighbourhoods like Harlem, Washington Heights, or Astoria, which tend to be more affordable than Manhattan.
  
• Keep an eye out for discounts and special offers, and consider booking well in advance to secure the best deals.
  

Budget Hotels and Motels:

• While hotels in New York City can be expensive, there are some budget-friendly options available, especially if you’re willing to sacrifice amenities and luxury.
  
• Look for budget hotels and motels in neighbourhoods like Long Island City, Queens, or Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
  
• Consider booking through budget hotel chains like Red Roof Inn, Days Inn, or Comfort Inn for affordable rates.

Couchsurfing:

• Connect with locals through Couchsurfing and stay with them for free. It’s a great way to meet new people, experience NYC from a local perspective, and save money on accommodation.
  
• Be sure to read reviews and references from previous guests before making arrangements, and always communicate clearly with your host about your expectations and plans.

Transportation

Getting around New York City on a budget is easier than you might think, thanks to its extensive public transportation system:

Subway and Bus:

• The New York City subway system is one of the most extensive and efficient in the world, with trains running 24/7 throughout the city’s five boroughs. You can use your contactless card or Apple/Android pay in New York City and you only need to tap it. To exit you simply walk out (if you do tap it will charge you another unnecessarily single journey)
  
• Purchase a MetroCard for unlimited rides on the subway and buses. Opt for a 7-day or 30-day unlimited pass if you’re staying longer, as it offers the best value for frequent riders.
  
• Familiarize yourself with the subway map and schedule, and use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper to plan your routes and track real-time arrivals.

Walking:

• Many of New York City’s top attractions and neighbourhoods are within walking distance of each other, especially in Manhattan.
  
• Put on a comfortable pair of walking shoes and explore the city on foot. Not only is it a budget-friendly way to get around, but it also allows you to soak up the energy and atmosphere of NYC streets.

Cycling:

• Rent a bike or use a bike-sharing service like Citi Bike to explore the city’s bike-friendly neighbourhoods and waterfront paths.
  
• Citi Bike offers affordable day passes and monthly memberships, with docking stations located throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

Ferries:

• Take advantage of NYC’s ferry system to explore waterfront destinations like Governors Island, Staten Island, and Red Hook, Brooklyn.
  
• The Staten Island Ferry offers free rides between Manhattan and Staten Island, providing stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline along the way.

Visiting New York City for Budget Travellers Food and Dining

Eating out in New York City doesn’t have to break the bank if you know where to look:

Street Food:

• New York City is famous for its street food vendors, offering a wide variety of affordable eats like hot dogs, falafel, pretzels, and pizza slices.
  
• Look for food carts and trucks in popular areas like Midtown Manhattan, Central Park, and Union Square for quick and tasty meals on the go.

Ethnic Eateries:

• Explore NYC’s diverse culinary scene by dining at ethnic eateries in neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Jackson Heights.
  
• You’ll find delicious and budget-friendly dishes from around the world, including dumplings, tacos, curry, and noodles.

Cheap Eats:

• Look for budget-friendly dining options like diners, delis, and fast-casual chains scattered throughout the city.
  
• Popular spots for cheap eats include The Halal Guys, Joe’s Pizza, Gray’s Papaya, and Shake Shack.

Grocery Stores:

• Save money by shopping at grocery stores and preparing your meals. Stock up on essentials like bread, cheese, fruits, and snacks to fuel your adventures around the city.
  
• Look for supermarkets like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods Market, and Key Food for affordable groceries and convenience items.

Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Discovering the best of New York City doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Take advantage of these free and low-cost attractions:

Central Park:

• Explore the vast green oasis of Central Park, where you can picnic, bike, or simply relax amidst nature.
  
• Don’t miss iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir.

Museums with Suggested Donations:

• Visit museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The American Museum of Natural History, and The Brooklyn Museum, which have suggested admission fees. This means you can pay as much or as little as you want.
  
• You can pay what you wish to explore their world-class collections, making them accessible to budget travellers.

Free Walking Tours:

• Join free walking tours offered by organizations like Free Tours by Foot or New York Tours. Explore neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village, Lower Manhattan, and Brooklyn Heights with knowledgeable guides.
  
• Learn about the history, architecture, and culture of NYC while getting insider tips and recommendations from locals.

Public Parks and Gardens:

• Spend time in public parks and gardens like the High Line, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Bryant Park, which offer free admission and beautiful landscapes.
  
• Enjoy scenic views, seasonal blooms, and cultural events throughout the year in these urban green spaces.

Street Art and Murals:

• Discover vibrant street art and murals in neighbourhoods like Bushwick, Williamsburg, and the Lower East Side.
  
• Take a self-guided walking tour to admire the creativity of local artists and discover hidden gems around the city.

Discount Passes and Deals

Maximize your savings with discount passes and deals designed for budget travellers:

New York Pass:

• Consider purchasing the New York Pass, which offers access to multiple attractions and tours for a discounted price.
  
• Choose from 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, or 10-day passes based on your itinerary and save money on admission fees.

CityPASS:

• CityPASS is another option that provides discounted admission to popular attractions like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
  
• Save up to 40% on combined attraction tickets and skip the lines at select venues with CityPASS.

Groupon and LivingSocial:

• Check Groupon and LivingSocial for deals on attractions, dining, and activities in New York City.
  
• You can find discounted tickets, restaurant vouchers, and special offers on guided tours, sightseeing cruises, and more.

Free Events and Entertainment

Experience the vibrant culture of New York City without spending a dime by attending free events and entertainment:

Concerts and Performances:

• Enjoy free concerts, dance performances, and theatre productions in parks, public spaces, and cultural venues throughout the city.
  
• Check out websites like NYC Parks, Time Out New York, and The Village Voice for event listings and schedules.

Outdoor Movies:

• Watch free outdoor movies in parks and public spaces during the summer months. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy classic films under the stars with friends and family.
  
• Popular outdoor movie series include Bryant Park Movie Nights, Movies Under the Stars, and Rooftop Cinema Club.

Street Festivals and Parades:

• Attend street festivals, parades, and cultural celebrations happening year-round in NYC.
  
• Experience the diverse traditions and flavours of different communities while enjoying music, food, and entertainment.

Tips for Saving Money

Make the most of your budget trip to New York City with these money-saving tips:

Plan Ahead:

• Research free and low-cost attractions, events, and dining options before your trip to New York City.
  
• Create a budget and prioritize your must-see experiences to make the most of your time and money.

Use Student Discounts:

• If you’re a student, take advantage of student discounts offered at museums, attractions, and restaurants.
  
• Always carry your student ID with you and inquire about discounts wherever you go.

Avoid Peak Times:

• Visit popular attractions during off-peak hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds and long lines.
  
• You’ll have a more enjoyable experience and save time waiting in line for your favourite attractions.

Bring Reusable Water Bottle:

• Stay hydrated while exploring the city by bringing a reusable water bottle with you.
  
• Fill up at water fountains and refill stations in parks and public spaces to save money on bottled water and reduce plastic waste.

Must See Things to do visiting new york city for budget travellers

Here is a list of my top things to do in New York City. I was very fortunate to live in New York City for 3 months.

Ellen’s Stardust Diner

If you are a Theatre lover this is the dream place to eat Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner. The food itself is okay but the novelty of this diner is that all the waitressing staff sing to you as you eat. Some of the actors performing have been in Broadway or are auditioning and the talent is insane. Sometimes you may get a duet or trio.

I would advise getting there as early as possible. I’ve been for both breakfast and dinner (although not on the same day) and have had a lengthy wait both times, although breakfast I would say is the less busy option.

See the Statue of Liberty for FREE

As previously mentioned above you can in fact get pretty close the Statue of Liberty and you don’t need to pay a dime. Simply hop on the free Staten Island Ferry and stand (or sit) on the right of the boat. You can see the Statue of Liberty in all her glory.

Do bear in mind that when you reach Staten Island you need to get off the boat to then get on the same boat to get to Manhatten. There was not an option to stay on. You just need to get in line and hop on again or if you want to check out Staten Island that is also an option.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Alternatively, you can pay to see the Statue and it also includes a trip to Ellis Island. You can get a free audio guide here and learn about the Statue and how it was built and made history. You can also get tickets for the pedestal (I was very lucky to get such a ticket) where you can go into the Statue and take some amazing photos. The best part was it was the same price as the normal ticket.

Times Square

Probably the most famous part of NYC and a must for any first-timers visiting New York City. It is very much like Piccadilly Circus in London with huge screens promoting various brands and shows. This place is incredibly busy.

Note: There are a lot of costume characters here ie Disney characters, Simpsons etc who want money if you take a picture with them. One actually got in my selfie without permission and then demanded I pay them. Just something to be aware of.

See a Broadway Show

To get cheaper tickets to see a Broadway Show head to the famous steps in Times Square. Behind the steps, you will find a tkts station where you can find cheaper tickets to see a Broadway show. Try and avoid the weekends as tickets can be more expensive. I managed to snag Mean Girls Tickets for £50 which is pretty good for Broadway.

Visiting New York City for Budget Travellers NYC Museums

Some museums including the Natural History Museum have suggested admission fees. This means say a museum is saying the suggested is $24 you can by all means pay this but you can actually pay as little as you want. The person before me paid $1 to go into the Natural History Museum! I think this is taking the mic a little bit but you get the drift.

9/11 Museum

The 9/11 Museum is very popular and is a must see for anyone who remembers this tragic attack that happened in 2001. The museum itself is underground and shows the remaining structure of the stairs and buildings. Be sure to take tissues with you as you will go on an emotional rollercoaster in this museum. You can find distressing images and even real life video calls from the victims.

You can book 9/11 museum here.

9/11 Memorial Pools

If you do not wish to enter the museum I would definitely recommend seeing the 9/11 memorial where you will find all the people who died in this attack etched onto what was the two towers. If you see a flower on someones name it means it was their birthday on that day.

Visiting New York City for Budget Travellers Must See Views of NYC

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building observation deck is on the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. You can also get a combination ticket and reach the 102nd floor with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Before you visit I would double-check the weather as if it is cloudy you won’t be able to see a thing.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Another great one for the views and you can see the Empire State Building and Central Park from here. Rockafeller Centre where you can find top of the rock is very touristy and therefore incredibly popular. If you would like to visit try and pick early in the morning for best availability and beating the crowds.

Rockafeller is also a great viewing platform at night will all lights switched on.

You can book tickets for Top of the Rock here.

Summit One Vanderbilt Experience

Take in the thrilling view of New York City with the Summit One Vanderbilt Experience. You get to explore immersive art and take some awesome photos with transparent glass boxes high in the sky. Just be sure to dress appropriately, I’d advise trousers over skirts as it is rather reflective. Some people were even wearing sunglasses.

Although this isn’t the cheapest activity I think it is worth it for the 360 views.

You can book tickets for the Summit One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket here.

The Edge

Another one for great views is The Edge. Here you can view Central Park and the Statue of Liberty in the distance. It is 1100 feet above ground so this isn’t for the faint-hearted. You really are on the edge of the world.

You can book tickets for the Edge here.

Visiting New York City for Budget Travellers

Visiting New York City for budget travellers on a budget is entirely feasible with careful planning, savvy strategies, and a sense of adventure. From affordable accommodation and transportation to free attractions and entertainment, there are plenty of ways to experience the best of the Big Apple without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, embrace your inner budget traveller, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the city that never sleeps!