The best thing about New York, unlike many cities, is most of the main sights are actually free. Ticking off the following should deliver a budget friendly, unforgettable 3 days.
Free Landmarks:
Times Square the neon studded intersection which should top your list. It’s mad, familiar and impressive. Tip- it may sound obvious, but go after dark. Plus, check out the TKTS booth for cut price tickets for Broadway and Off Broadway.
Grand Central Station – our favourite landmark. Don’t miss: the information booth clock; the whispering gallery (outside the Oyster Bar) to hear the whispers of a friend on the other side of the gallery due to clever acoustics; the food market packed with European vendors selling fresh produce and gourmet treats – enter from Lexington at 43rd; and the huge choice of fast food vendors in the basement. Tip – don’t forget to look up at the ceiling and if you visit in the Winter there are light show projections in the main concourse.
Central Park – a huge 843 acres bang in the centre of Manhattan with endless possibilities. Check out: the rowing lake, Strawberry Fields, the carousel, the Belvedere Castle; and if you’re active hire a bike or jog round the reservoir. Tip – if you go in winter it’s home to the best skating rink in Manhattan.
911 memorial – this beautifully, moving memorial honours the 2977 victims of the September 11 terrorist attack and the 6 people killed in the World Trade Center bombing of 1993.
Tip – don’t miss a visit to the nearby Oculus transport hub designed by Santiago Calatrava; and the historic Trinity Church on Wall St with a graveyard dating back to 1681 featuring Alexander Hamilton’s grave and a poignant exhibition on the church’s key role in the 911 rescue effort.
Free views:
Walk across Brooklyn Bridge for our favourite view of the city. It’s a good way to fight off early morning jet lag. Tip – it’s longer than you think.
The High Line – wander along this raised old railway line and take in unique views of some of NYC’s coolest districts. Tip – visit in Spring or Summer for the designer planting.
The Vessel – the latest addition to the Hudson Yards complex. Climb Thomas Heatherwick’s spiral structure for the best views. Tip – book your free ticket in advance.
Take the Staten Island Ferry for a free 25 min cruise past The Statue Of Liberty and a picture perfect view back at Manhattan. Tip – it’s free, but you do need to get off and then get back on again when you reach Staten Island.
And finally, don’t forget, to keep looking up as you can also see the outside of NYC’s skyscrapers for free – don’t miss The Empire State, The Chrysler and The Rockefeller Center.
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