New York City is among the most expensive in the world, but visiting doesn't have to break the bank. There are countless cheap things to do in New York City. Finding them isn't always easy, but the city is definitely set up for budget travel. Consult local publications like Time Out New York to determine free or low-cost events that are happening while you're in town, and enjoy the tried-and-true methods of exploring the city on a strict budget.
Instead of going to Macy's, visit New York City's famous flea markets. The Hell's Kitchen Flea Market on West 39th Street (between 9th and 10th Avenues) sells clothes, luggage, jewelry, artwork and various trinkets. Getting your souvenirs on Canal Street instead of Times Square is also a surefire way to save money while shopping.
Street food in New York City is world-famous and cheap. Hot dogs and kabobs cost only a few dollars per person, and even the locals swear by them. Avoid eating at touristy spots like Little Italy, and stick with mom-and-pop shops that are on nearly every street corner.
Every budget traveler visiting New York City should take the free Staten Island Ferry, which gives people great views of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the "Met," as it's known to the locals, has a world-class art collection. A little-known fact is that the admission fee is actually not set: You can pay any "donation" of what you can afford. In 2009, the recommended donation was $20, but visitors can choose to pay as little or as much as they'd like. Check Time Out New York for information on "art walks," where visitors enjoy free admission to art galleries and free or reduced admissions to museums.
Central Park is a historic part of New York City and should not be missed by anyone visiting the city. There is no admission to the park, so it's the perfect place to take a walk or have a picnic by one of the small lakes.
