budget for trip to new york

How much money should you budget for a week trip to New York City?

Mis à jour le 04/04/2022. 204 commentaires

Determining a budget for a trip to New York is quite complicated. It would help if you considered various expenses, and some are more important than others. Anyhow, I’ll try to give you some clues. First, I will define three types of budgets (tight, average, and large) for a couple who decides to stay a week in New York (7 nights).

For each budget, I will consider the following elements: Flight + accommodation + food + departures + visits + shopping + extras

It is an estimate based on my own experience. At least I will try to give you an idea of how much your budget should be.

Factors to think about as you prepare your budget for a trip to New York City

Firstly, you must consider when you want to go to New York City. The flights and accommodation rates vary depending on the season. The cheapest season is from January to March. The seasons that attract more tourists are when there are school holidays (Easter, summer, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year).

The accommodation is another factor to care about. The place where you will stay and the comfort and services you want. You can start at around $90 a night up to $250-300 or a few thousand dollars for high-end hotels.

The lifestyle you want in New York also matters. You may don’t mind eating sandwiches, going out at night, or shopping; your budget may be more limited than a couple who wants to dine in restaurants, see a show on Broadway, and visit many places.

The 7 factors that seem most important to me are: – the flight (round trip) – accommodation (hostels, hotels, apartment…) – transportation (from the airport, taxis, metro…) – meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) – visits, attractions and shows – shopping – extra expenses (bars, cakes…).

How much does a flight cost to New York?

I know you read me from different countries, and I cannot easily compare the cost of a flight ticket from London, Sydney, or Berlin. For those who read me from the United States, the price categories that I will give below do not apply because domestic flights are usually much cheaper than international flights.

However, if you go on vacation outside school holidays, you will get cheaper rates. But still, you can review the fares of some airlines which propose offers throughout the year. The key is to check rates often. Sometimes it can be helpful to register for an airline’s newsletter and receive special offers notifications.

I prepared a list of airlines in this article . Do not hesitate to review it and compare the rates 😉

If you notice a promotion, you can also inform me, and I’ll publish it in this post .

I determine three types of budget:

How much does it cost to stay in New York?

Again, it is a bit difficult to give you a very precise cost.

New York City attracts a lot of tourists, the rates vary from month to month.

You can find a room at $150 off-season, and pay $250- $300 for the same room during the high season!

In addition, you have to take into account where you would like to stay, the number of travelers, comfort, and services.

How much does transportation cost in New York?

The first expense you will have in New York is the transfer between the airport and your accommodation ( JFK , Newark , La Guardia ). The cheapest way is public transportation with the Airtrain and subway because it is equivalent to $15.75person round trip, or $31 for a couple.

You can also book a taxi shuttle, about $ 23/person, or about $90 per couple, the round trip.

Another option is the taxi or a limousine. It can cost from $50 to $170 for a one-way trip.

Once in New York, if you stay a week, it is best to buy an Unlimited Metrocard . It costs $32 per person.

Yellow cabs can be very practical … and they are so mythical! They are available 24 hours a day in Manhattan. A trip can cost between $8 and $10, it obviously depends on the distance. There are also green taxis, I give you more information in this article . They cost the same, the difference is that they go to areas where yellow taxis do not.

I want to draw attention to those who decide to stay in New Jersey. They must add the price of the PATH (train from New Jersey to NYC), it costs $29 /person, unlimited travel for 7 days. If you don’t stay close to a PATH station, you can take a bus, rates vary depending on the distance.

How much money could you spend for meals?

It is another difficult point to determine. Some may be satisfied with a $3 hot dog, and others prefer $200 meals at a good restaurant. Breakfast at a Starbucks costs $5 to $6 per person (a simple coffee and pastry). You can spend less at a 7 Eleven, Dunkin Donuts, Prêt-à-Manger…

Eating at a fast-food restaurant varies from $8 to $10 for a main dish + drink + dessert. There are small restaurants or Deli’s, in which the main course (pizza, pasta, meat, …) costs from $10 to $12 per person. A full meal costs $20 – $26 per person.

As for restaurants, likewise any big city, some can be very expensive. But there are many with complete menus (entrees + main dish + dessert) between $50 and $60 per person.

Note: some hotels have breakfast included in the room rate, with a large selection of food.

For three meals per day (breakfast, lunch and dinner). dinner), my estimate is:

How much do visits, attractions and shows cost in New York?

First of all, I think that for a first visit of New York, the purchase of a Pass is very useful, like the New York CityPASS since it offers the main visits and attractions in NYC.

Then, if you want to see an NBA game, whether it’s the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets, you could find tickets at $26-40. For a baseball game, it’s starting at $20-25, a football game is starting at $40-50. You can read more information here .

If you like shows and plays , you can go see a musical on Broadway, starting at $ 65-90 per person.

One of the must-see activities in New York is a helicopter flight , starting at $215 per person. It is impressive and allows you to see the whole city from an extraordinary point of view.

In short, there are thousands of things that can be done in New York , not to mention concerts, museums, bus tours, boats, guided tours…

How much does a shopping session in New York cost?

It is one of the most difficult budgets to anticipate. Even if your not a regular shopper, the prices in New York are so attractive that one quickly falls into the shopping fever.

Most tourists buy souvenirs from $ 1 to $ 10 (key chains, I Love NY t-shirt …) but they also buy at least a pair of sneakers (Converse, New balance, Nike) from $40 to $50, a pair of jeans from $40 to $50, 2-3 t-shirts at $10 each…

You can save money going to one of the outlet stores near NYC . For nice souvenirs at “wallet friendly” prices, you can go to Cocoblues .

What are the other expenses that can be spent in New York?

Within these expenses I include going to a bar at the end of the day, passing by a bakery during the afternoon… expenses that are not necessary but are part of the vacations.

A cupcake, muffin or cookie, can cost at least 3 to 4 dollars, a beer costs $6-10, a cocktail is from 9 to 13 dollars, if it is on a rooftop (on the terrace of a building) it is at least $ 13…

In this category you can count the administrative expenses ( ESTA -$14 person- or visa, it depends on the countries in terms of price), the passport (the price depends on the countries), and are required to enter the American territory.

I prepared a table so you can better read the budgets calculated above.

As you can see, you can go to New York with your partner with a little over $2000, reserving the flight and accommodation as soon as possible and limiting your expenses in the city. However, I recommend that you go with a budget of minimum $2200 per couple, to truly enjoy your stay. I would say a minimum of $3500-$4000.

In this article, I am not talking about the agencies that offer flight-hotel packages. You can get a good deal on websites like Expedia .

To prepare your budget, you can also calculate how much money you spend per week when you are at home: meals, transportation to work, shopping, gas and electricity for example.

In conclusion, I hope I have helped you a little with this article, so you can prepare your trip to New York with ease.

My fist trip to New York was in 2007 when I was working for an airline company. I was born in the US, I lived in Mexico, in Europe in between Belgium, Spain and France… Well, let’s say I know about travelling! I bring my experience of NYC to the blog, to provide the best travel tips you could imagine!

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The Best New York Itinerary: Visiting NYC On A Budget

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Planning a New York Itinerary is no easy feat. Choosing from the copious number of NYC sights, incredible things to do and endless options of delicious food can be overwhelming. And, as New York City is ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, visiting NYC on a budget can add even more anxiety to the planning process. No need to fret. Our New York City Itinerary is packed with everything your need for your budget trip to NYC!

Best Trip to New York on a Budget

For our trips to New York City, we challenge ourselves to experience NYC on a budget. Even for a short stay, costs can add up quickly when paying for expensive admission to sights, pricey meals and high-dollar accommodations.

However, thrifty travelers need not worry. There is plenty to do and see (and eat!) in New York without breaking the bank. We’ve created a Budget NYC Itinerary that includes iconic sights, a ferry ride, neighborhood walks and classic, cheap eats.

We believe this is the Best New York Itinerary for budget travelers, as we focus on the free things to do in NYC. In fact, it might be the absolute cheapest way to visit New York. However, we also happen to think that these are some of the absolute best things to do in New York City! 

Planning a New York Budget Itinerary

When we decided to visit NYC on a budget, we found multiple resources offering suggestions of what to do in New York on a budget, but nothing that wrapped it all up into an easy-to-follow itinerary. 

After spending hours planning our trip to NYC on a budget, we came up with the perfect way to visit the city without going broke. We are sharing our detailed outline of how to spend 4 days in NYC on a budget so that fellow travelers can easily plan their trip. 

In addition to our day-by-day New York City itinerary planner, we include detailed tips for a New York budget trip – such as where to find an affordable place to stay, how to get there and what to pack. 

Just like the city itself, this New York DIY Trip Plan is humungous . It contains absolutely everything you need for planning a trip to New York on a budget.

Pro Tip: We suggest using our Trip Planning Templates to research and organize your NYC vacation!

How Many Days to Spend in New York

We are detailing a day-by-day plan for a New York 4 Day Itinerary – but what if you have more – or less time in NYC? No problem! We provide NYC itinerary planner tips on how to spend your time in the city.

Whether you have 1 day in New York or are planning 7 days in New York, you can use our sample New York itineraries, which we feature at the end of the post.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our NYC Trip Plan to create your best itinerary for New York City!

NYC Budget Trip: New York Itinerary Planner Tips

Before we dive into our incredibly comprehensive New York City Itinerary, we have some essential tips that will help you prepare for a trip to NYC on a budget. 

NYC on Budget: Subway and Shoes

Our suggested itinerary for New York covers some ground; up to 10 miles a day! In order to keep up, you will need two things: comfortable travel shoes and a MetroCard. An unlimited weekly MetroCard costs $34, plus $1 for the card. More info about using the subways and the MetroCard are included at the end of the article.

NYC Sightseeing Map

We provide a New York itinerary map link for each day’s adventures. But if you are visiting New York City for the first time and are unfamiliar with the area, a paper NYC map may help. In fact, we recommend getting a New York City Map in advance and spending a little time studying it. Having a separate NYC Subway Map is also helpful.

Sightseeing in New York City on a Budget

The big (not so) secret tip on how to do NYC cheap is to skip the expensive, ticketed attractions. In our 4-day New York trip plan, we include many free and cheap attractions. However, our New York trip itinerary does not include visiting any museums or skyscrapers. Don’t worry, there are plenty of great things to see and do in New York City without paying for pricey tickets!

That said, our NYC sightseeing route passes by many of those high-dollar attractions, so they are easy to visit if within your budget. Now, we have a few tips for how to balance New York on the cheap with expensive admission to top attractions. 

Top Tips for Sightseeing NY on the Cheap

Soaring to the top of skyscrapers (like the Empire State Building , Top of the Rock or One World Observation Deck ) is expensive. Rather than going to the top of all 3 buildings, choose just one. Or, if you are really trying to see NY on the cheap, eliminate them altogether.

Instead, take in the city skyline views from a free vantage point – like the Staten Island Ferry, The High Line, the Brooklyn Bridge or Roosevelt Island.

Likewise, spending time at a museum (like The Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Natural History ) requires ticket. If one of the pricey museums is high on your New York travel itinerary must-sees, pick just one. 

The New York Botanical Garden is another top attraction that charges a steep admission price. We suggest skipping it in favor of the free NYC parks and green spaces. Swap out visiting the NY Botanical Garden with other outdoor things to do in NYC cheap – like Central Park, Prospect Park and the Hudson River Greenway.

Top Tip : We chat more about ticketed sights and money-saving NYC Sightseeing Passes later in the article!

About Our New York Itinerary 4 Days

With 4 days in NYC, you can see the major attractions, feel the distinct vibe of New York neighborhoods and get a taste of some of the city’s best food. Our robust and easy-to-follow NYC itinerary will help make your trip planning simple!

Budget Itinerary for NYC: Sights, Info and Directions

For each sight in our New York tour itinerary, we include information, facts and (if applicable) a link to more info. To help you better navigate, we indicate which is the closest subway station to the first sight of the day. We also include a link to Google Maps so that you can get directions from wherever you are. 

When visiting New York on a budget, the best way to get around is on your own two feet. In our NYC trip itinerary, we group sights together on self-guided walking tours. However, if public transportation is required, we have included the recommended subway route. 

Bathrooms and Water Fountains

Our New York Itinerary includes long stretches of being outdoors and eating on-the-go, so we’ve indicated where there are convenient public bathrooms along the route. With so much walking in our budget New York trip plan, it is important to stay hydrated. There are numerous public drinking fountains where you can fill up water bottles along the way. 

NEW YORK BUDGET TRAVEL ITINERARY

Now that we have covered the important details of planning a trip to NYC on a budget, we are ready to share our best New York trip plan!  

Day 1 of your New York Vacation on a Budget

On the first day of your 4-day trip to New York City, see the city’s top sights. Start in Lower Manhattan to get a view of the Statue of Liberty; then embark on a self-guided walking tour through Midtown to the most iconic NYC buildings and sights. Start at Subway Station: South Ferry or Whitehall St .

LOWER MANHATTAN

Lower Manhattan is the district located on the southern tip of Manhattan that is often referred to as Downtown. The district is both historic and modern – and it is the perfect place to kick off your budget New York trip!

Statue of Liberty via the Free Staten Island Ferry

There is no doubt that Lady Liberty is one of New York’s most recognizable sights. Every visitor should get a look at her – which is why we include it as the first thing to do on your budget NYC trip. 

Expensive Statue of Liberty Tours allow visitors to get up close and personal, but the cost may exceed your New York travel budget. No worries – there is a free way to get a fabulous view: The Free Staten Island Ferry. In fact, we think riding the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things to do in New York City on a budget. 

The free ferry transports passengers from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island. The route passes by Ellis Island and Liberty Island, providing a stunning view of the Statue of Liberty…and the ride doesn’t cost a dime! In addition to the views of Lady Liberty, passengers also get a phenomenal view of the NYC skyline. 

Taking the Staten Island Ferry

To catch the ferry from Lower Manhattan, simply go to the Whitehall Terminal, get in line, get on the ferry and get a spot on the starboard (right) side. Ferries make the journey at least every half hour; get the full schedule on the official website .

When you arrive at Staten Island, you must disembark and circle around to the entrance to ride back. Once back in Manhattan, spend time exploring the NYC Financial District in Lower Manhattan on foot. 

Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

The best way to see the sights in Lower Manhattan on a New York Low Budget Trip is on a self-guided walking tour. The district is highlighted by historic places, iconic buildings and poignant memorials. The 1.5-mile walk begins at The Battery and ends at The Oculus – and should take about 1-2 hours. U se this Map for walking directions. 

The Battery

The Battery (previously known as Battery Park) is the reserved green space at the southern tip of Manhattan. The name dates to the time when the area housed a fort and artillery batteries for defense purposes. 

Charging Bull on Bowling Green

The iconic Charging Bull sculpture was created by artist Arturo Di Modica in 1989 (following the stock market crash of 1987) as a nod to the self-determined (some might say bullish ) spirit of America to prosper. Weighing 3.5 tons, the bronze sculpture made its first appearance in front of the New York Stock Exchange, left there mysteriously by the artist in the middle of the night. It was quickly removed and relocated to nearby Bowling Green, where it stands today.

It is estimated that 1,000 tourists stop to see the sculpture each day, many posing with it for a photo and then rubbing its nose, horns and genitals (no joke) for good luck. 

Wall Street and the New York City Stock Exchange

Wall Street is at the center of Manhattan’s Financial District. Standing at the corner of Wall Street and Broad Street is the New York Stock Exchange, one of the world’s top financial markets. Even travelers who visit New York City on a budget should check out the famous Financial District.

Running 8 blocks to the East River, Wall Street is also home to the Museum of American Finance, Old Stonington Custom House and Federal Hall (where George Washington was sworn in as the first United States president in 1789). 

New York City Trinity Church

The first Trinity Church was built on the location in 1698, but was destroyed by the Great New York City Fire of 1776. The second Trinity Church was built in 1790, and was the place of prayer for President Washington. The current Trinity Church with its soaring spire was built in 1846 and, at the time, was the tallest building in the US. 

The Sphere in Liberty Park

Opened in 2016, Liberty Park is located south of One World Trade Center. The raised park provides an elevated view of the National September 11 Memorial. At the center of Liberty Park is The Sphere.

The 25-foot-tall sculpture once stood in the plaza between the Twin Towers. After the 9/11 attacks, The Sphere was recovered from the rubble at Ground Zero, surprisingly intact. Left in the condition in which it was found, The Sphere was first placed in Battery Park, but was relocated to Liberty Park, closer to its original location. 

9-11 Memorial

The National 9-11 Memorial honors and remembers the nearly 3,000 people who were killed on September 11, 2001 – and is a must-see on every itinerary planner for New York.

In place of where the Twin Towers once stood are now two reflecting pools. Etched in the railing surrounding the pools are names of the victims in New York, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon, as well as those who died in a World Trade Center bombing in 1993.

Among the many trees at the monument is The Survivor Tree, which was discovered in the wreckage but still lives. It serves as a reminder of resilience and rebirth. The 9-11 Memorial Museum offers additional detailed information. 

One World Trade Center

Also known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center was built from 2006 to 2013 on the north side of the 9/11 Memorial. The building stands at 1,776 feet (the year of US independence), which makes it the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the 7th tallest building in the world.

The One World Observatory , which offers a birds’ eye view over the city, is located on the 102nd Floor. However, when you visit New York on a budget, you can simply stand at the base of the tower and look up at it. 

To the east of the 9/11 Memorial is The Oculus, which was designed to look like a dove in flight. The unique building, which serves as a memorial and houses both a train station and a mall, cost an astounding $4 billion to build (most certainly NYC’s most expensive train station ever). From The Oculus, walk to the Cortlandt Street station and take the subway to East 23nd Street Station.

  Map of Sights in Lower Manhattan for Day 1

NYC Midtown marks the middle of Manhattan – and it is the district you will explore in the afternoon of Day 1 of your New York trip on a budget. Walking among the classic skyscrapers is one of the best things to do in NYC – and it’s absolutely free!

LUNCH – Shake Shack at Madison Square Park

Before you set off on your discovery of Midtown, stop for a budget Manhattan lunch at Shake Shack. In 2001, Shake Shack was just another food cart in Madison Square Park. By 2004, they transformed from a cart into a permanent residence, grilling up hot dogs and burgers for long lines of waiting customers. Today, the popular fast-food chain has more than 400 locations…but nothing beats the original!

Midtown Walking Tour

Our self-guided Midtown Manhattan walking tour passes by the best buildings in NYC. The route starts at the Flatiron Building and ends in the Broadway Theater District. The walk covers about 3 miles and should take 2-3 hours to complete. Use this Map  for walking directions to Midtown sights.

Flatiron Building

The 22-story, triangular Flatiron Building was completed in 1902 – at the time, it was one of the tallest buildings in the city. The name comes from the design resembling a clothes iron. Stand with your back toward the pointed tip of the Flatiron Building for a great view of the Empire State Building!

Empire State Building

The Art Deco Empire State Building has been a symbol of New York since it was completed in 1931. It’s total height, including the antenna, is 1,454 feet and it reigned as the world’s tallest building from 1931 until 1970.

For many visitors, a trip to the 86th and 102nd story observation decks is a must-do in NYC. However, the ticket is a bit pricey, so you will need to determine if you can squeeze it into your New York travel budget. 

New York Public Library

The main branch of the New York Public Library opened in 1911 and is an important NYC landmark. At the entrance, two stone lions (named Patience and Fortitude) guard the doors. However, the real gem of the library is the Rose Main Reading Room, which is lined with thousands of books. 

Bryant Park

Behind the library is Bryant Park. Designated a park in 1847, in the 1970s Bryant Park was the site of unruly rallies and drug deals. In 1988, the park was completely renovated, including the bathrooms, which had been closed for 35 years.

Today, the bathrooms are an odd highlight of the park, as the public toilets are said to be the nicest in the entire city (complete with floral arrangements and an attendant). Bryant Park is also home to one of the best NYC Christmas Markets!  

New York City Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Station has been a hub of NYC transportation since the year 1913. Today 750,000 people pass through GCT every day, not only to hop a train, but also to visit the shops and restaurants within the terminal.

First time visitors, however, will want to walk through the Main Concourse to look up at the impressive zodiac ceiling and the classic opal clock perched above the information booth. Public Bathrooms. 

Chrysler Building

Built in 1930 for the Chrysler car corporation, the Art Deco Chrysler Building features a ‘crown’ of steel (not a crown of hub caps, which is a popular urban myth). The building held the title as tallest building, but only for 11 months, until the Empire State Building was completed. The observation deck has been closed for decades, but fans of Art Deco and historic places might want to take a peek inside the lobby, which is the only portion open to the public. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Build between 1858 and 1878 (and replacing Old St. Patrick’s in Little Italy), St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic church in North America. Main features include the 330-foot spires, the stained-glass Rose window, the Tiffany & Co altars (of St. Louis and St. Michael) and as well as the manger scene during Christmas. 

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 buildings, originally designed and developed between 1930 and 1939 by the Rockefeller family. The Art Deco structures were declared both a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark in the 1980s. Among the most popular buildings are the Top of the Rock and Radio City Music Hall.

The two most recognizable statues at Rockefeller Center are Prometheus (a glittering statue in the Lower Plaza fountain) and Atlas (a 45-foot-tall sculpture across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral). The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink are main attractions during wintertime in NYC. 

Top of the Rock Observation Deck: The observation deck at Top of the Rock is another amazing viewpoint. In fact, we prefer the view from Top of the Rock over the Empire State Building. If you can fit the admission price into your NYC trip budget, we suggest heading up!

Radio City Music Hall

Home of The Rockettes dance company, Radio City Music Hall opened in 1932 featuring (at the time) the world’s largest auditorium. In 1978, the building was designated a New York City Landmark. Today, the 7-story-high neon signs glow bright and the theater is still used for performances and shows. 

Times Square

Nicknamed “The Center of the Universe,” Times Square is part of the entertainment district in NYC. It is probably the busiest, most congested area of the city (an estimated 330,000 people walk through Times Square each day). However, it is not a square at all, but two triangles created by the crisscrossing of 7th Avenue and Broadway.

Electronic billboards featuring advertisements light up the square – day and night – and brand name shops line the streets. Consider popping into the Hershey’s Store for a free mini-chocolate bar. The Times Square Ball that drops annually at midnight on December 31 to mark the new year occurs at One Times Square on the southern end.

Broadway Theater District

Although there is only one Broadway Theater, there are actually 41 theaters in New York’s Theater District that are collectively known as Broadway. Highly regarded as the top theater performances in the world, tickets are extremely expensive.

However, even on a cheap NYC trip, you might be able to get more affordable entry to Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway shows – and TKTS sells deeply discounted tickets the day of the show.

Besides seeking out the one-and-only Broadway Theater, others that may be of interest are the famous 1970s disco, Studio 54 and Concert Hall, Carnegie Hall. 

DINNER IN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

Now that you have discovered how to see New York on a budget and taken in some of the top sights, you have undoubtedly worked up an appetite! The good news is, we have two Midtown dining recommendations where you can eat in NYC on the cheap. 

The Halal Guys Food Cart

The Halal Guys is a classic New York success story. What began in 1990 as a hot dog cart transformed into filling a void in the Halal food market – and now they have more than 200 franchised locations. However, the original cart at West 53rd and 6th Avenue still operates, cranking out platters and sandwiches of chicken or gyro (or mix) topped with their secret ‘white’ or ‘red’ sauce starting at $9. Reviews for The Halal Guys .

Xi’An Famous Foods

Xi’An Famous is another well-known budget food stop in Midtown. The menu features a combination of Chinese and Middle Eastern fare, which is found in the city of Xi’An, China. The ‘cheap’ option is their Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger, but for a little more, the dumplings are even better! 

Map of Sights in Midtown for Day 1 

Day 2 of your NYC Trip on a Budget

On the second day of your 4-day trip to New York, wander the city’s most-loved and largest park and explore two often-missed neighborhoods: Roosevelt Island and East Harlem. Start at Subway Station: Cathedral Pkwy

CENTRAL PARK

Every New York Itinerary should include a visit to Central Park – and with four days in New York, there is ample time to see the many attractions. While the museums charge a fee to enter, the park itself is free to visit – so it is easy to include in a budget trip to New York!

Even if you plan a trip to NYC on a budget, you may want to splurge for entry into one of these museums. While there are many museums in or near Central Park, the top two are The Met and the American Museum of Natural History . 

Central Park Walking Tour – Part 1

Start your exploration of the west side of Central Park on a self-guided walking tour from north to south visiting some of the most features. The route extends 3.5 miles and should take about 2-3 hours. Use this Map for directions.

1. North Woods, 2. The Ravine, 3. The Loch

One of the most secluded and natural sections of Central park, North Woods, The Ravine and The Loch are also the most beautiful part of the park. The wooded area features ponds, streams and waterfalls.

4. North Meadow

The North Meadow is comprised of 23 acres of open space, which is most often used for organized sports in the summertime.

5. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Built as a temporary water supply for New York City in the 1860s, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir holds one billion gallons of water. That would only last the city 4 hours today!

6. Great Lawn

Located in the center of Central Park, the Great Lawn has been the site of many concerts, like Simon and Garfunkel, Bon Jovi and the New York Philharmonic. Public Bathroom at south end.

7. Belvedere Castle

Built in 1869, the fairytale Belvedere Castle provides fabulous views to the north (over Great Lawn) and to the south (over the Ramble). Weather instruments are hosted on the castle’s tower, allowing weathermen around the world to report the current weather in Central Park.  

8. The Ramble

Designed as a natural landscape, the Ramble is one of the popular places to visit in Central Park. The 38 acres of woods features several intertwining paths.

9. Strawberry Fields (and 10. The Dakota)

Dedicated to famed Beatles member John Lennon – and named after one of his songs, “Strawberry Fields Forever” – the tear-shaped garden (designed by Yoko Ono) is classified a Quiet Zone for meditation. At the center is a black-and-white tiled mosaic, spelling out “Imagine,” the title of the best-selling song.

The Dakota, or The Dakota Apartments, is a historic Renaissance structure on the northwest corner of 72nd Street and Central Park West. The building is where John Lennon lived from 1973 until he was fatally shot in front of it in 1980.

11. Tavern on the Green

A restaurant since 1934 (and a sheep fold for the 700 sheep that grazed in Central Park’s Sheep Meadow before that), Tavern on the Green is an NYC landmark restaurant serving upscale cuisine and classic cocktails. While a meal there isn’t for a trip to New York City on a budget, we do recommend at least stopping to take a look (especially during Christmas in NYC !).

12. Central Park Carousel

The carousel first opened in Central Park in 1871 (when it was powered by a mule and horse that were hidden below the ride). In total, there have been four carousels on the site; today’s carousel dates to 1908 and was restored for the park in 1990. 

13. Wollman Rink

The Wollman Rink, with NYC’s incredible skyline as a background, was opened in 1950 and has been featured in several films (like Serendipity and Love Story).

14. Gapstow Bridge

The picturesque Gapstow Bridge was built in 1896 and provides stunning NYC skyline views. It’s also a good spot for photo ops in Central Park. 

LUNCH AT CENTRAL PARK

Central Park is the perfect place for a picnic lunch – whether you are traveling to NYC on a budget or not! There are grocery stores and corner delis nearby where you can pick up picnic items. On the other hand, indulging in a famous New York City hotdog is a top tip for how to visit NYC cheap!

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart

At the southeast corner of Central Park, seek out the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart by the William Tecumseh Sherman Monument. Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart was started in 1916 by a Polish immigrant with a secret spice recipe. The original stand was on Coney Island and, back then, hot dogs only cost a nickel. Today, they are a bit more expensive, but may still fit into your New York trip budget. 

ROOSEVELT ISLAND

Roosevelt Island is a slender, 2-mile-long island in New York’s East River. In the 1800s, the area was used to conceal the ill and poor from the rest of society. A smallpox hospital, almshouse, penitentiary and asylum were built on the small spit that was renamed Welfare Island. Today, high-rise apartments are clustered here, but a few historical structures remain – along with a memorial. 

Exit Central Park from the southeast corner and walk east on 59th Street. Pass Bloomingdale’s and continue another block to the Roosevelt Tramway Plaza. The roundtrip walking distance is about 2 miles (including Roosevelt Island sights) and will take about 2 hours. Use this Map for the detour to the Tramway; Use this Map for Roosevelt Island.

Roosevelt Tramway

The 3,100-foot-long Roosevelt Island Tramway is an aerial commuter tram connecting to Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Opened in 1976, the tramway has two capsules, each of which can carry 125 passengers on the 3-minute ride. The cost of the ride is included with the weekly unlimited MetroCard – so it is essentially free to ride! 

Explore Roosevelt Island

There is an inexpensive bus that makes a loop around Roosevelt Island, but we think the best part of the island is the southern end, which is just a short walk from the Tramway station. The area hosts a memorial dedicated to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the remains of a hospital. Additionally, there are fantastic views of the NYC skyline. Public Bathroom. 

Walking Tour of Central Park – Part 2

Re-enter Central Park where you exited on the southeast corner. Start your discovery of the east side, traveling all the way to the far northeast corner. This 3-mile walk should take about 1-2 hours. Use this Map for walking directions.

18. Balto Statue

Balto is the famous Siberian husky that in 1925 led a team of sled dogs from Anchorage, Alaska to the town of Nome with the necessary medicine to stop a deadly epidemic. The dogs were considered heroes and Balto’s statue in Central Park commemorates their efforts.

19. The Mall

The Mall is a wide pedestrian path (not a shopping center) that is canopied by towering American Elm trees. The Literary Walk begins at the southern end of The Mall, featuring famous writers of the past. Follow The Mall to the north, which ends at Bethesda Terrace.

20. Bethesda Terrace, Fountain and Arcade

The grand and opulent Bethesda Terrace is a highlight of Central Park. The terrace overlooks The Lake and Bethesda Fountain. Beneath the terrace is the tiled arcade where musicians perform and wedding couples are photographed. Paddleboats can be rented nearby and The Loeb Boathouse restaurant is a popular spot to stop for an afternoon refreshment.

21. Hans Christian Andersen Statue

Author of The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid, Hans Christian Andersen’s statue is a favorite for children visiting Central Park – and it’s one of our favorite spots, too!

22. Conservatory Water Pond

Conservatory Water is a well-known Central Park pond that is used mostly for navigating model sailboats.

23. Alice in Wonderland Statue

In 1959, the bronze cast of characters from Alice in Wonderland was installed at the park, including Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter.

24. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or just The Met, is New York City’s most popular museum. The Met opened in 1880 and features major artworks from around the world. While The Met is not one of the cheap places to visit in New York, it is a top city attraction. You will need to determine if you want to include it in your 4 Days in New York Itinerary. 

25. Cleopatra’s Needle

The Obelisk, often called Cleopatra’s Needle, dates to the year 1450 BC, which makes it the oldest object in Central Park. It stands at 69-feet, weighs 220 tons and was erected in 1881. A matching Obelisk stands along the Thames River in London .

26. Conservatory Garden

The formally-planned Conservatory Garden features flowers, manicured hedges and fountains. It is a beautiful and peaceful place to relax in the middle of the hustle and bustle of NYC.

27. Duke Ellington Circle

At the northeastern tip of Central Park is Duke Ellington Circle. A statue of the famed jazz musician stands in the center of the plaza. ( Public Bathroom behind the statue. )

Map of Sights in Central Park and Roosevelt Island

EAST HARLEM

End the second day of your New York City trip on a budget in East Harlem. The neighborhood, which is also called Spanish Harlem or El Barrio, is the district that lies between the Upper East Side and Harlem.

Once settled primarily by Italians (and earning it the nickname Italian Harlem), the area saw an influx of Puerto Rican and Latin American immigrants in the mid-1900s. Today, it’s a diverse neighborhood filled with bodegas, inspiring street art and a variety of Latin American restaurants. Use this Map for East Harlem sightseeing.

East Harlem Sights

East Harlem is a district to be experienced, not necessarily explored with a checklist in hand. We recommend wandering freely, keeping an eye out for intriguing street art along the way. 

Graffiti Hall of Fame

East Harlem is a hotbed of street art. The walls of the Jackie Robinson Educational Complex Playground are covered in paint; the spot is now known as the Graffiti Hall of Fame. 

Street Art in East Harlem

However, the Graffiti Hall of Fame isn’t the only spot to find murals and messages in El Barrio. While the East Harlem Street Art is ever-changing, a few of our favorite murals when we were there were Tito Puente Oye Como Va (at 110th and 3rd Avenue); Angel Wings under the tracks (at Park Avenue and 111th); and a sketch by local street artist, James De La Vega (at 111th and Lexington Avenue). 

DINNER IN EAST HARLEM

One of the things we love best about East Harlem is that there are a variety of restaurants in a range of prices – which is fantastic if you are traveling to New York on a budget!

Drinks in East Harlem

Drinking at bars and restaurants in NYC is expensive. However, seeking out Happy Hours can definitely assist in keeping the budget in check. In East Harlem, we found a couple of places offering great happy hour prices for drinks.

Craft beer enthusiasts should head to East Harlem Bottling Co for a great selection of innovative brews. For those craving a Latin-inspired cocktail, go to Cascalote for happy hour margaritas. If you’re enjoying the vibe, consider staying for dinner – as the prices are fairly affordable for the modern Latin fare. 

Restaurants in East Harlem

If you want to keep your New York City trip cost to a minimum, check out the food options in East Harlem. We recommend eating cuchifritos, popular Puerto Rican soul food, at the aptly named Cuchifritos on 116th Street.

Meals of whole roasted chicken with sides and a large drink cost less than $25 and are enough to feed at least 4 people! Don’t need so much food? Sample an array of the fried Latin goodies displayed in the restaurant window; each nugget costs about $1.

If you are interested in dining at a historic establishment, try one of the Italian restaurants still operating in the neighborhood. For a truly classic place, go to Patsy’s Pizzeria . Opened in 1933, Patsy’s legendary regulars included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra and Francis Ford Coppola (who used the restaurant as inspiration for The Godfather films).

Map of Sights in East Harlem for Day 2 

Day 3 of your Budget NYC 4 Day Itinerary

Day 3 of this NYC trip itinerary is all about visiting the diverse districts of New York. Enjoy a scenic view, take a walk on an elevated park, then immerse yourself in a few of New York City’s best neighborhoods.

Use this Map for Day 3 NYC Sightseeing. Start at Subway Station: 34th Street-Hudson Yards

The Hudson Yards Vessel

Opened in 2019, The Vessel is a unique architectural structure of intertwining staircases and viewing platforms. As one of the best Free NYC attractions, tickets are required and need to be booked in advance. UPDATE: Closed indefinitely, but still a cool sight to see on your cheap New York trip. 

High Line Park

The High Line is NYC’s elevated-tracks-turned-park – and one of our favorite spots in the city! Visiting the park is free – so it won’t add a dime to your New York trip cost, either. 

The High Line Park – similar to the Promenade Plantee in Paris and Chicago’s Bloomindale Trail –  hovers above the Meatpacking District in Chelsea. From 1934 until the 1980s, trains ran along the tracks on Manhattan’s west side transporting meat and other goods from the industrial zone.

When the use of the trains became obsolete, the tracks were set to be demolished, but residents took up the cause to turn the relic into usable green space.

Throughout the modern park are art installations, amazing viewpoints and a few remaining railway tracks, which can be seen running through flowerbeds. Walk the length of The High Line from north to south – but detour at 16th street, taking the stairs to Chelsea Market.

Chelsea Market

The upscale fare at the uber-hipster Chelsea Market (which is essentially a fancy food court) is most likely over-priced for budget NYC travelers, but it is still worth a walk through. Check for free samples on the counter at Li-Lac Chocolates, which claims to be the oldest chocolate house in the city. After walking through Chelsea Market, return to The High Line and continue walking south.

Hudson River Greenway

The Hudson River Greenway is just steps from The High Line and a fantastic place to walk along the Hudson River. Part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway that follows almost the entire shoreline of Manhattan, strolling south on the Greenway offers fantastic views of the Hudson River and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Walk for a couple of blocks and then take West 11st Street to explore a favorite NYC neighborhood, Greenwich Village. 

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Greenwich Village – or simply The Village – is known as the artsy, bohemian district in Manhattan. The Village is home to NYU and Washington Square Park and the neighborhood is best explored with wonder. 

LUNCH IN GREENWICH VILLAGE

If you have already worked up an appetite, you are in luck because three of the best cheap places to eat in New York are located in atmospheric Greenwich Village. 

Percy’s Pizza

Hands-down our favorite cheap pizza in the city is Percy’s Pizza. It’s not just the crispy crust and ample cheese used to top each slice that gets us excited about this former NYC $1 slice pizza (even though now it’s $3!), but also the friendly neighborhood vibe and shake-it-yourself Parmesan. TripAdvisor Reviews Percy’s Pizza.

Mamoun’s Falafel

Mamoun’s Falafel has been serving up their signature Falafel sandwich  from the original Village location since 1971. The tasty sandwich gets bonus points for having heaping amounts of fresh veggies! TripAdvisor Reviews Mamoun’s Falafel.

Saigon Shack

Craving an amazing Banh Mi sandwich for a great price in NYC? Be sure to save room for a stop at the Saigon Shack. Crispy bread and fresh ingredients make this an absolutely tasty and inexpensive bite…the best Banh Mi we’ve had outside of Saigon ! 

Washington Square Park

Before leaving Greenwich Village, walk through Washington Square Park. It has the most interesting history of any NYC park. The area was originally marshland, then farmland, and then a graveyard (20,000 bodies are said to still be buried below!). After a brief period as Military parade grounds, it’s been a public park since 1950.. The notable features are the Washington Square Arch and the large fountain. ( Public Bathroom ) 

NEW YORK SOHO

From Washington Square Park, it is just a short walk south to Soho. Top-end retailers and art galleries line the streets of Soho, but history buffs and fans of architecture will enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood without ever stepping foot in a store.

The Cast Iron Historic District is a sub-district of Soho, which consists of more than 200 buildings featuring cast iron design. The area has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Fun Fact : The name Soho comes from it’s location; South of Houston…pronounced House -ton.

LITTLE ITALY NYC

New York Little Italy, which has dwindled to just 3 blocks on Mulberry Street, sits east of Soho. Although not the flourishing district it once was, we still think visiting the area is a NYC-must-see. In 1910, 10,000 Italians lived in this neighborhood – including many Mafia members. 

The shops and restaurants mostly cater to tourists who are enthralled by the tales of NYC’s crime families and the feeling of stepping into scenes from The Godfather. Follow this useful self-guided tour what on see in Little Italy NY. 

NEW YORK CITY CHINATOWN

This wouldn’t be the best NYC Itinerary on a budget if we didn’t visit Chinatown! Walk down Chinatown’s Pell Street, where neon signs display Chinese symbols and dried fish products overflow from markets. Known for a high concentration of Asian restaurants and street vendors hawking knock-off merchandise, a stroll through the neighborhood is truly a feast for the senses. 

Top Tip : Follow this self-guided tour of Chinatown for tips on what to see in NYC Chinatown.

Want a Guide to lead the way to Top NYC Neighborhoods? Take a Free Walking Tour! To join a FREE (tip-based) Guided Tour of Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown, make a reservation . 

DINNER IN CHINATOWN

One of the best things about NYC Chinatown is the food! And, with so many affordable restaurants in Chinatown, even travelers planning a cheap trip to NYC can eat in Chinatown without over extending the budget.

Our favorite way to feast in Chinatown is to grab mini take away meals from numerous establishments. To start, get a cheap portion of pork dumplings from Fried Dumpling . Then, make your way to Mei Li Wah Bakery for delicious baked pork buns ($1.50). Finally, pop into a noodle shop for more fantastic fare.

Map of Sights for Day 3 of our NYC Itinerary

Final Day of your New York City Itinerary

To wrap up your amazing 4-day trip to New York City, spend time in Brooklyn before ending your stay with a classic NYC deli meal. Start at Bedford Avenue Station

The Brooklyn borough is three times larger than compact Manhattan and quite a bit more time consuming to travel around. The once inexpensive area has seen a sweep of gentrification. Still, there are many interesting enclaves in Brooklyn to check out that will fit into a cheap New York trip budget.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is the original hipster district in Brooklyn, known for its incredible nightlife and trendy brunch spots. Note, however, that eating in Williamsburg is not one of the things to do in New York on a budget!

Instead, on cheap trips to New York, take a stroll around the stylish neighborhood (you can even use this self-guided Williamsburg Walking Tour ) then continue on to The Bushwick Collective via subway from Bedford Avenue Station to Jefferson Street Station . 

Bushwick Collective Street Art

Unlike Williamsburg, which is being polished clean, Bushwick is a gritty industrial neighborhood. The buildings’ exterior walls are perfect for artists to use as canvases for street art murals.

In now what is known as The Bushwick Collective, artists have livened up the district with colorful and contemplative art. One of the fun things to do in NYC on a budget is to peruse the neighborhood in search of the latest and greatest street art. 

Top Tip: Find the best street art in the neighborhood using this self-guided tour  complete with helpful map.

CHEAP LUNCH IN BROOKLYN

There are so many things to love about Brooklyn – and the food scene is most certainly one of them. From classic American eats to the best New York bagels to international fare to legendary markets, Brooklyn food is divine. While many Brooklyn restaurants will test the budget for a cheap trip to New York, there are still many affordable places to eat in Brooklyn, too.

Top Tip : After lunch, we head to Prospect Park, so you can grab a bite to go and eat in the park picnic-style.

Tina’s Place

An American greasy spoon, Tina’s Place cranks out cheap breakfast sandwiches and classic breakfast platters – but get there before 11am for the best deals. The diner is located in Bushwick – so you can walk there after (or before) seeking out street art. 

A&A Bake and Doubles Shop

Typical Trinidadian fare that is soft on the budget, but big on the taste buds, A&A is an absolute gem! Grab a couple of doubles (curried chickpeas in fried dough) – they start out at $2 each. To get to A&A, use the subway to Nostrand Ave Station . 

Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe

The bagels in NYC are out of this world – and they are one of our favorite things to eat in New York City on the cheap!

A bagel with schmear (that’s cream cheese) is a perfect affordable lunch. There are several bagel shops in Brooklyn where you can get your fix, but we recommend popping into Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe, where they make fresh bagels on site. 

Smorgasburg Market

If it’s a summer Sunday, head inside Prospect Park and the Smorgasburg Market , an open-air market with 100 food vendors dishing out delectable fare.

Prospect Park 

Designed by the same duo who laid out Central Park, Prospect Park features open fields, ample paths, a zoo, amphitheater and several lakes. Wander through the park from the Prospect Park subway station to the northwest to the Grand Army Plaza. ( Public Bathrooms in park. ) 

Brownstones of Park Slope

The Park Slope Brownstones are quintessentially Brooklyn. The term ‘brownstone’ comes from a type of sandstone building material used in many structures in NYC. However, it also refers to the architectural element of a staircase rising from street level to the front door on the second level.

There are a high concentration of brownstones in Brooklyn, with some of the most beautiful buildings in Park Slope. Head south on 8th Avenue from Grand Army Plaza and zigzag through the neighborhood or follow part of this walking tour .

Then take the subway from the 7 Av Subway Station to York Street Subway Station to DUMBO.

DUMBO, which stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” was once an industrial district. Today, the warehouse buildings are being used as galleries by artists and as offices by tech firms. The riverside park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

Brooklyn Bridge

After visiting the sights in DUMBO, it is time to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge – one of the best free activities in NYC! Taking 14 years to complete, the Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883 to connect Manhattan to Brooklyn over the East River. At the time, the 1,595-foot-structure was the longest suspension bridge in the world and an instant icon of the city. Often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World, the bridge is crossed by an estimated 150,000 vehicles and 4,000 pedestrians every day. Those who walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan are treated to the most spectacular Manhattan skyline views!

New York City Hall 

At the west end of the Brooklyn Bridge is City Hall Park. At the center of the park is the landmark New York City Hall, which was completed in 1812 and is the oldest city hall in the United States. The Office of the Mayor of New York and city council chambers are still located inside the building.

From City Hall Park, walk north on Center Street and take the subway from Chambers Street Subway Station to the Essex Street Station . Walk north to Katz’s Deli.

Katz’s Deli

A lot of a splurge on a low-budget New York trip, we think a meal at Katz’s Deli is worth it! With a history that dates to 1888 – and meat that takes 30 days to cure – Katz’s Delicatessen is legendary in New York City. Many movies and TV shows have filmed scenes at Katz’s Deli, including a famous scene from When Harry Met Sally.

Pastrami on Rye is the thing to order, but it’s a bit of a budget-buster, costing more than $25. However, it can easily be shared with two people and is oh-so tasty!  

Pro Tip: If the prices at Katz’s Deli push the budget for your New York trip, opt instead to eat at Veselka. The nearby Ukrainian restaurant is a favorite NYC diner for hearty yet inexpensive eats. Established in 1954, the restaurant is open 24/7!

McSorley’s Old Ale House

The final stop on our NYC travel itinerary is a classic and much-loved New York bar, McSorely’s Old Ale House. Claiming to be NYC’s oldest continuously operated pub, McSorely’s was opened in 1854. The historic boozer, which was a “men’s only” bar until 1970, has been visited by many famous people, including Abe Lincoln, Dustin Hoffman and the New York Rangers hockey team after they won the Stanley Cup in 1994!

Inside the cozy tavern, newspaper articles and old photos cover the walls, sawdust covers the floor and classic bartenders pour the beers. They keep it simple with just two choices of house beer, light or dark, and it’s cash only!

Map of Sights on Day 4 for our New York Itinerary

Best New York Itinerary Suggestions

Whether you are trying to see New York in a day or have a week, we can help! Using our New York City Itinerary 4 Days as a base, we have created alternate NYC itineraries that can fit into your timeline.

1 Day in NYC Budget Trip Plan

Trying to see NYC in a day is a huge challenge – but it is possible to get a sweeping overview in a single day using our succinct New York One Day Trip Planner. 

NYC Itinerary 1 Day

The best way to create a NYC 1 Day Itinerary is to simply follow Day 1 of our New York City 4 Day Itinerary. If time permits, add a visit to Central Park to the end of your day, strolling through the southern end of the park after sightseeing in Midtown. 

2 Days in NYC Itinerary

Planning 2 days in New York on a budget? Whether you are visiting mid-week or trying to create a Weekend in NYC Itinerary, there are numerous ways to plan your time in the city. 

NYC Itinerary 2 Days

Don’t stress about what to do in New York for 2 days – we’ve got it covered! We recommend following Day 1 from above – then combine Days 2 and 3 to create an optimal NYC 2 Day Itinerary. For example, on the second day, spend the morning in Central Park and in the afternoon, explore Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown.

3 Days in NYC on a Budget

The choice of things to do in New York in 3 days are almost endless – but we have designed a great 3 Day Itinerary NYC for you! 

NYC Itinerary 3 Days

Using our NYC Itinerary 4 Days as a guide – we’ll optimize for the best sightseeing. For a great 3 Days in New York City Itinerary, follow our tips for Day 1 (Lower Manhattan and Midtown), then on the second day, use Day 3 (High Line and NYC neighborhoods). On the last day, combine Days 2 and 4 (spending the morning in Central Park and the afternoon in Brooklyn). 

5 Days in New York

Our tips for what to see in New York in 5 days includes more district discovery and a possible spurge in the budget. 

NYC Itinerary 5 Days

Spending 5 days in NYC? Incredible! Use our New York in 4 days, then a bit more! For example, add in Hell’s Kitchen and/or Harlem. Alternatively, you could create a New York Itinerary 5 Days that includes one day of splurging on experiences, like Top of the Rock or The Met .

7 Days in New York

Looking for a 1 week in New York Itinerary? We just happen to have one of those! Check out our suggestions in our New York City One-Week Itinerary .

How To Plan a Trip To New York on a Budget

When we talk about how to visit NYC on a budget, we are not only talking about sightseeing and attractions, but how to plan every aspect of the trip. So, we have a few more budget-saving tips that apply to the overall cost of a trip to New York, too. 

Trip to New York Cost and Money Saving Tips

As outlined above, our only costs while sightseeing were the MetroCard and meals. However, there are other expenses involved in a trip to New York City. We are sharing our advice on how to plan a trip to New York on the cheap when searching for hotels and transport. 

Finding Cheap Places To Stay in New York City

Accommodations can easily account for the biggest cost of a trip to NYC. We wont’ lie: booking cheap accommodation in NYC is quite the task! Cheap hotels in NYC don’t really exist, and you wouldn’t likely want to stay in the absolute cheapest places anyway.

Budget Accommodation New York

If you are searching for where to stay in NYC on a budget, then we have a few recommendations. 

First, start your search as early as possible, as the best value hotels get booked the quickest. 

Second, consider looking outside of Manhattan. Brooklyn, Harlem and even Jersey City are where to stay in NYC for cheap. Although, finding anything less than $200 might still be a struggle (especially on weekends). 

Third, if you do stay outside of Manhattan, be sure to choose accommodations that are close to subway access! This will save heaps of time when transiting into the city for sightseeing. 

Finally, be flexible about your accommodation choice. For example, the Nap York Capsule Hostel is a great budget option for travelers looking for an affordable bed in the heart of the city. The hostel gets rave reviews for being quiet, clean and offering privacy for each bunk. 

Start your search on Booking.com – but first read our tips for Finding Top Hotels at the Best Price .

Airbnb in NYC

For more affordable accommodations, consider staying in an Airbnb Apartment . We have found that staying in apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms – with the added benefit of a kitchen and, usually, more space. While there’s been a lot of changes on how Airbnb can operate in NYC, there are still private rooms in Queens, Harlem and Jersey City that start at about $100.

NYC Housesitting

On our budget trip to New York, we were house and pet-sitting , so our accommodations were free. Yep, free . Sound interesting? Find out more about how to become a house sitter in our article, International Housesitting . 

Getting Around NYC for Cheap

One of the top tips for travel to New York City on a budget is to avoid taxi cabs! Cabs in NYC are notoriously expensive – not to mention, the traffic is horrendous. Uber is a better option, but still expensive. We do not recommend driving in NYC for any reason.

For our outlined 4 Day New York City Itinerary, we suggest using the subway, buses and walking – it’s the cheapest way to travel in New York! The unlimited weekly MetroCard is one of the best New York City travel trips for budget travelers. 

MetroCard: How To Travel Cheap in New York

A weekly unlimited MetroCard allows access to the subway, buses and the Roosevelt Tramway for seven days. The 7 day unlimited pass becomes financially beneficial if used for at least 12 rides. Our 4 Day New York itinerary includes 16 rides.

For the best, up-to-minute NYC public transportation options, we recommend using Google Maps. Just make sure to carry a portable power bank , as we needed the extra boost for our phones by the end of each day!

Tips for using the NYC Subway

• Before entering the subway, check for a direction on the station sign. Some stations are direction-specific, but not all.
• Swipe your card at a steady pace. Going too fast or too slow won’t work. 
• When a train approaches, check the sign on the front and side of the cars to ensure it is the train you want (several trains use the same platform).
• Forget what you’ve heard about attitudes – most New Yorkers are actually incredibly nice and helpful, especially when it comes to assisting with the subway. If you are unsure where to go, just ask a fellow passenger!
• For more tips on using the NYC subways and buses, go to the official MTA Website . 

Getting To NYC

New York City is well connected to…everywhere. The metropolis can be reached by plane, train, boat and car. However you arrive, you should include the cost in your vacation budget for New York City. 

Finding Cheap New York Flights

There are three major airports that serve NYC: John F Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark International (EWR). When you travel to New York on a budget, your flight will likely account for a big portion of your overall trip cost. We start our search for the best deals on airline tickets and cheapest flights to New York on Skyscanner.

Trains to NYC

New York City is connected to major US cities by train, too – like Boston , Philadelphia and Washington DC . Although train travel in the US can be slow and expensive, short train trips from destinations on the east coast can be one of the ways to travel to New York cheap. 

More Tips for New York Travel on a Budget

We have shared some of our best tips on how to visit New York on a budget, but we have a few more pieces of advice for planning a cheap New York trip. 

Cheap Eats in NYC

Eating at sit-down restaurants in NYC is expensive, which is why we chose takeaway food for our NYC Budget Itinerary. However, if you have a week in NYC, pop into one of the many New York grocery stores, corner markets or delis, where you can buy more affordable food.

Cheap Sightseeing in NYC

Our itinerary includes incredible free sightseeing in NYC that doesn’t cost a single cent. However, if visiting some of the iconic New York sights is high on your list, buying a New York Sights Pass might be financially beneficial.

New York Sightseeing Deals

Top NYC sightseeing passes promise to save you time and money – and they certainly can if you choose the right one! Some offer unlimited sights for a specific number of days (1 to 10 days), while others offer a number of sights (2 to 12 attractions) that can be visited over a certain time period.

• The New York Sightseeing Pass offers both types, one for a specific number of days and another for a specific number of sights. 
• The New York Pass is a great way to visit New York on a budget – as it offers access to more than 100 attractions and tours for time periods of 1 to 10 days.
• New York CityPass is another fantastic sightseeing card for a cheap trip to New York City. The card features the top city attractions at one low price.
• You can also save money with discounts of up to 40% on New York City tours and Activities with Viator .

Shopping in New York on a Budget

New York City is one of the premier shopping destinations in the world. However, many budget travelers skip shopping on New York cheap trips…but you don’t have to! Rather than shop at the luxury stores on posh 5th Avenue, seek out top thrift stores – they are the best places to shop in NYC on a budget! Top picks for thrift threads on Cure Thrift, Beacon’s Closet and AuH20. The Bloomingdale’s Outlet on the Upper West Side is another great place to find clothes for cheap in NYC.

Travel to NYC on a Budget: Packing Checklist

Use our free New York trip planning checklist and our trusted packing hacks for your budget NYC vacation!

Walking Shoes for New York

A good pair of walking shoes are a must for your 4 day trip to New York City! I like lightweight shoes, like these by Columbia , and Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes. Read our top tips for the Best Travel Shoes !

NYC Weather Gear

Nearly all of the sights on our 4-Day NYC Itinerary are outdoors. Make sure you are prepared with appropriate gear. In the summertime, make sure to pack sunscreen , your sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat . If rain is in the forecast, bring a travel umbrella and travel rain poncho – or a better raincoat . 

Travel Camera for NYC Photos

New York is a stunning city! We recommend using a proper travel camera with a zoom lens for your trip to NYC. We travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens , which takes amazing photos. We also carry a Canon PowerShot ELPH , which is small enough to fit into a zippered pocket and an ideal budget camera for city sightseeing.

Day Bag for New York

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you will certainly want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your essential travel items .

Start planning your trip to NYC, USA ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Need Ideas for Quick US Trip Destinations?

We highlight some of our favorite locations in The Best Weekend Getaways in USA . Also check out our top Underrated US Destinations !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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Cost of a Trip to New York, NY, US & the Cheapest Time to Visit New York

The average price of a 7-day trip to New York is $2,057 for a solo traveler, $3,694 for a couple, and $6,926 for a family of 4 . New York hotels range from $74 to $506 per night with an average of $196, while most vacation rentals will cost $250 to $610 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to LaGuardia Airport ( LGA ) are between $688 and $1,170 per person for economy flights and $2,159 to $3,671 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $68 to $154 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit New York, NY, US

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to LGA and stay in a New York hotel:

• January 15th to March 11th
• August 6th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in New York is usually mid to late September .

Average New York Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit New York for a week is $1,697-$3,332 ($242-$476 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $68 to $154 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $417 to $1,030 for economy

Lodging : $134 to $143 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $167 to $204 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit New York for a week is $3,132-$5,720 ($447-$817 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $136 to $308 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $834 to $2,060 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit New York for a week is $4,976-$10,268 ($711-$1,467 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $272 to $616 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,668 to $4,120 for economy

Lodging : $268 to $286 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $234 to $306 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to New York

How cheap can you make a vacation to New York? The cheapest trip to New York is about $112 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $59.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit New York for a week is $781-$1,950 ($112-$279 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $34 to $68 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $59 to $74 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $61 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit New York for a week is $1,436-$3,456 ($205-$494 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $68 to $136 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit New York for a week is $2,812-$6,912 ($402-$987 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $136 to $272 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $118 to $148 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $32 to $85 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to New York cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury New York Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in New York.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit New York for a week is $3,095-$11,958 ($442-$1,708 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $122 to $339 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,005 to $2,997 for first class

Lodging : $206 to $506 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $610 to $1,098 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit New York for a week is $4,954-$17,328 ($708-$2,475 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $244 to $678 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,010 to $5,994 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit New York for a week is $9,908-$32,022 ($1,415-$4,575 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $488 to $1,356 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,020 to $11,988 for first class

Lodging : $412 to $1,012 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $854 to $1,757 per night for a preferred vacation rental

New York Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in New York is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in New York due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

New York Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on New York hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in New York.

Flight Costs to New York

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,170 average in late July to a low of $688 in mid to late September. Median flight price is $638. These prices are based on millions of flights. For New York our data includes 1,129 originating airports, and 152 airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to New York from an airport like Savannakhet ( ZYL ) in Sylhet (Bangladesh) for an average $10,541 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Ronald Reagan Washington National ( DCA ) in Washington, DC (the United States) at an average of just $146.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In New York, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $482, so you can easily save about 70% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around New York can easily cost $510 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $34 per person. Private tours can cost $1024 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other New York Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Midtown, NY, US
• NoMad, NY, US
• Flatiron District, NY, US
• Chelsea, NY, US
• Kips Bay, NY, US
• Union Square, NY, US
• Meatpacking District, NY, US
• West Village, NY, US
• Manhattan, NY, US
• East Village, NY, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Busan, South Korea
• Lake Eola Park, the United States
• Kandy, Sri Lanka

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

Anyone who’s considered a trip to New York City knows it’s notorious for being expensive. Not only is it one of the most costly cities in which to live, but just visiting can also cost a fortune. When you consider that the average hotel room is close to $300 nightly, the average cost of a restaurant dinner is over $40 per person, and then add in fees for transportation and sightseeing, it’s not hard to spend $500 per day in the city. Yet, most people don’t realize that you can visit New York City on a budget.

We’ve compiled a list of the best money-saving tips for anyone planning a trip to the Big Apple. It will answer:

How to travel to New York City on a Budget

Best areas to stay in new york on a budget, what to do in new york city on a budget, how to see new york city on a budget, best shopping in new york on a budget, where to eat on a budget in new york, how to do new york city on a budget, #1 you have to have a plan.

With a bit of planning (and ingenuity), you’re sure to have a great time in the Big Apple even without spending a fortune. You’ll be amazed at the number of famous sights that are absolutely free of charge. Take for example the Brooklyn Bridge , Central Park or Staten Island Ferry, which offers close-up views of the Statue of Liberty – you’ll be spoiled with choices. In this travel guide , we’ll be focusing on low-budget travel, telling you all about the best sight- seeing attractions, museums, tours and events that cost very little to nothing at all.

#2 Consider Alternatives for Arriving in New York City

Getting to New York City doesn’t have to be expensive. First, if you live on the east coast, consider taking the bus rather than driving. The bus ticket cost will be cheaper than paying for gas and parking once in the city.

If you aren’t fortunate enough to live on the eastern seaboard, it’s a good idea to consider alternate airports. The NYC area is home to three major airports: LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy, and Newark International . While the ones directly in New York tend to be more expensive, Newark is located only 15 miles from Midtown Manhattan and is usually cheaper. So it makes sense to check airline tickets through budget airlines before booking.

My Budget tip

If you find similarly low-cost flights destined for Newark or Queens and you plan to stay in Manhattan, opt for the one landing in Queens!

Why? Queens belongs to New York City, which means you can use the MetroCard on the subway for less than $3 per person. This is a fast and, above all, cheap alternative to the yellow cabs. A cab from Newark to Manhattan will cost you between $90 and 100, compared to $16 per person by train. So when considering your options, you shouldn’t just compare the flight prices, but the transfer costs as well!

Alternatively, if you decide to drive to the city, be sure to look for discounts on parking. Don’t settle for the high rates that hotels charge; instead, look for nearby parking garages as they tend to cost less, especially if you can find coupons. For instance, Icon Parking Systems notoriously offer coupons and feature garages all over NYC.

Best Time to Visit New York on a Budget

#3 plan your trip at a less busy time of the year.

Sometimes the timing of a trip is non-negotiable, but if your schedule is flexible, opt for a less busy time of the year. Yes, NYC is busy year-round, but during peak travel times such as the holidays and summer months, accommodations and flights are very expensive.

However, if you visit at a time of the year that’s less busy for tourists, there are deals to be found. These times are usually between the months of January and April and then again between September and November (so long as you don’t go around a holiday).

#4 Go for Queens & Brooklyn

Asking yourself “Where to stay in New York on a Budget”? NYC is known for exorbitant hotel prices for even the smallest of rooms. So, to visit New York City on a budget, it’s essential to shop around for places to stay. Just beware that for the cheapest rooms, you’ll probably end up with something a bit bigger than a closet with one window and a shared bathroom. While sharing a bathroom is not ideal for everyone, it is one of the most cost-effective ways to go.

Alternatively, you should check with economy hotel chains. And though these aren’t always that cheap, they are priced lower than other accommodations. Be sure to look at hotels such as the Ramada, La Quinta, Pod Hotel, and lesser-known independent hostels. Also, don’t limit yourself to staying in Manhattan. There are neighborhoods in Queens and Brooklyn that still offer the New York City charm but are usually 30% less expensive than rooms found anywhere in Manhattan.

The final option to finding less expensive accommodations in NYC is to consider renting an apartment or a room. Be sure to check websites such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO for good deals. You can also contact Manhattan Getaways, as they offer furnished rooms where some are private, and others are inside of resident’s apartments. The bonus to renting an apartment is that it cuts down on the cost of food, as you can shop at a grocery store and cook for yourself rather than go out to eat for every meal.

More than 100 hotels and over 70 neighborhoods to choose from –and after just 4 quick questions, I’ll show you which hotels in New York are best suited for you!

#5 Take A (Free) Ride on A Ferry

One of the most remarkable New York experiences is riding one of the celebrated ferries, such as the NYC Ferry. These are passenger ferries that are within walking distance to nearly anywhere in NYC. Some ferries, such as those that travel the East River, St. George, and South Brooklyn areas, only cost $2.75, which is the same as the subway.

The Ferry is the best Cruise to See New York City on a Budget!

However, the world-famous Staten Island Ferry is free to ride and runs 5.2 miles between the New York Harbor and the boroughs of Staten Island and Manhattan. The entire trip takes about 25-minutes and is a great way to take in many sights, including the Statue of Liberty !

#6 Sign Up to be an Audience Member at a Live Show

Are you a fan of late-night TV? Then save money by signing up to attend a taping of your favorite live show for free! This takes some advanced planning but shows such as The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver all offer free tickets.

#7 Look for Discount Broadway Tickets

Most people visiting NYC want to see a Broadway show. In fact, this is a popular bucket list item, and if you don’t research it, you can end up paying high prices for the tickets. Luckily, if you’re trying to visit New York City on a budget, there are ways to score deals on cheap tickets!

The most common way to go about this is to go to a TKTS booth where they sell same-day tickets for up to half-off regular price. You can also check online at places such as TodayTix to find great deals. These tend to sell out fast, so if you can’t find cheap tickets and still want quality entertainment, then head over to Ellen’s Stardust Diner . Here you can order some fries and a milkshake while being wowed by performers who are sometimes future Broadway stars.

#8 Free Guided Tours in NYC

It’s becoming increasingly popular to go on free guided tours of the city with genuine locals, who can lead you to all the attractions. With such a huge choice of tours available, you’re sure to find one that suits you. Before setting off, check out the websites of the people offering the tours, as there’s sometimes a change of plan due to bad weather.

The largest organization offering free walking tours is Free Tours by Foot . As in the case of the museums, these tours are offered on a “pay what you wish” basis. You have a choice of food tours, bus tours and bike tours. To be fair, it’s more accurate to say that these tours are free of charge if you choose not to pay anything. Free walking tours are therefore ideal whatever your budget.

Another group of people offering free walking tours are the Big Apple Greeters . The team consists of volunteers who show you around the most interest- ing places in the various neighborhoods. This allows you to experience New York through the eyes of a local – something we find particularly fascinating.

#9 Spend Time Outdoors at one of the many Parks in NYC

The first NYC park that comes to many people’s minds is Central Park . And while it’s a beautiful park full of trails, a zoo, and gorgeous lakes, there are many more from which to choose. The best part is these are great places to throw down a blanket and enjoy a picnic while people-watching.

So, while in New York City, be sure to check out the other parks such as:

• Brooklyn Bridge Park
• High Line Park
• Prospect Park : Located next to the Brooklyn Museum and Botanical Gardens, some people like this place more than Central Park. It’s full of lakes, green spaces, and shady bridges.
• Washington Square Park : This park always has something going on! It’s located in the center of Greenwich Village and is home to New York University. It’s a lively spot and an excellent location to meet locals.
• Domino Park : This is one of the lesser-known parks in NYC. It’s located along the East River in Williamsburg and offers amazing views of the New York Skyline.

#10 Take Advantage of Free Events and Historical Sights

The Big Apple is bustling, and there’s always something going on. Take time and find free festivals and events that are taking place during your trip. Some great examples are Shakespeare in the Park, concerts, and food festivals.

On the other hand, if you’re a history buff, don’t forget to check out all the free historical memorials, monuments, and landmarks. Such places include Alexander Hamilton’s grave at Trinity Church and Ulysses S Grant’s tomb that we discussed earlier. You can also take walks around Times Square, Coney Island, and The High Line.

#11 Visit one of the Museums of New York for free!

New York City is home to many of the country’s best museums. But did you know that some of the most famous ones offer what’s called pay-as-you-wish entry fees? It’s true! This option includes museums such as the American Museum of Natural History , Metropolitan Museum of Art, Bronx Museum, Sculpture Center, and many more.

Furthermore, the museums that don’t offer this option sometimes provide free entry on certain days or times during the week. These examples include the 9/11 Memorial, New York Botanical Garden, Museum of Modern Art , and the Queens Botanical Garden. Remember that you may want to allow additional time for these attractions because the lines are usually long.

Recommended article: The 27 Best Free Museums in NYC

#12 Save up to 70% with the New York City Attraction Passes

If it’s your first time visiting the Big Apple and you want to see all the major attractions on a budget, then the New York CityPASS is the way to go. The prices start at $136 per adult and $112 per child, so while it’s not cheap up front, it does save money if you plan to see NYC’s six biggest attractions.

Included in the price you can visit:

• American Museum of Natural History
• Empire State Building
• Ferry access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island OR Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum OR the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum
• Guggenheim Museum OR Top of the Rock Observation Deck
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The bonus is that you will wait in a separate line at most of these places, which is much shorter than the regular ticket line. When you consider that entering the Empire State Building costs $66.41 and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck costs $41.37, the New York CityPASS more than pays for itself by using it to see just three attractions.

Recommended budget tip: New York Pass Comparison – Which New York Pass should you buy?

What is the best pass for New York?

Currently, there are six major passes for New York City, making the task to find the best New York pass even harder. Most of the NYC sightseeing passes have a list of over 10 included attractions it can be difficult at times to compare them properly. Because we know how overwhelming the choice can be, we have created a tool that helps you to find the best New York Pass in three simple steps – ourNYC Attraction Pass Savings Calculator!

#13 Opt for More Authentic Versions of Common Tourist Places

See New York City like a local, rather than falling into the typical tourist traps. In other words, rather than going to the Comedy Cellar, attend a local open-mic night, or go to Arthur Avenue rather than Little Italy . Another idea is to visit Molly’s Cupcakes instead of paying more for Magnolia Bakery, which was made famous by Sex in the City.

#14 Invest in the Metrocard

Getting around the Big Apple can be a nightmare. Renting a car is usually not a good idea due to the sheer volume of traffic and the fact that parking garages get expensive over time. The best way to travel through NYC is by subway. If this is okay with you, be sure to invest in the Metrocard, as it will save you a ton of money. They offer an unlimited 7-day that costs around $32, and If you use it just 11 times, it’s paid for itself.

You may think that taking taxis is a cheap way to go, but think again! A better option is the Uber Pool. While the driver may pick up other passengers, the total cost is far less expensive than a regular Uber, Lyft, or taxi ride.

When traveling long distances or in bad weather, the subway is a good, cheap means of transport. A single-ride ticket for a one-way trip costs $3 from a ticket machine. If you buy yourself a MetroCard for $1, you can add credit to it. A single-ride ticket with the Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard then only costs $2.75. Therefore, it soon pays to use a Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard rather than single-ride tickets. What’s more, every time you add more than $5.50 to your card, you get a 5% bonus. However, this is only really worthwhile if you add more than $55 to your MetroCard (5% of $55 = $2.75 = a one-way trip).

You can save even more money on fares by purchasing a 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard. This costs §32 – equivalent to less than $5 per day over a seven-day period. The weekly card pays off after around twelve trips, even if you’re in New York for less than seven days. This is a particularly attractive option if you’re staying in one of the boroughs bordering Manhattan and want to commute into the city.

Recommended budget tip: Metrocard New York

Buying the Metrocard

We’re often asked whether it’s possible or advisable to buy the MetroCard in advance? Our answer is: no, definitely not! There are a few websites where you can purchase the MetroCard ahead of your journey, but we advise against it. They are simply overpriced and unnecessary, as MetroCards are readily available from vending machines at any subway station. You can pay by credit card or cash in US dollars.

#15 Don’t Waste Money on New York Souvenirs

You can literally buy anything in Manhattan, from luxury items to souvenirs. One thing you will have to do if visiting New York City on a budget is not get drawn into shopping at every store you see. The best thing you can do is set a budget and stick to it! And always skip the cheesy souvenir shops because the items are commonly overpriced, and if we’re being honest, no local will wear a shirt that says I ‘heart’ NYC!

Recommended article: Shopping in NYC

Clothing and shoes selling at less than $110 per item are exempt from sales tax in the Big Apple!

#16 Outlets in and around New York

New York is a shopping paradise. From the designer boutiques on Fifth Avenue, the hottest shops in SoHo to the hip second-hand shops in Williamsburg, you can easily shop your way through the entire city. Even though the city already offers you an eclectic amount of shops and malls, you will need to leave Manhattan if you want to snag the best shopping deals. The best way to do so is by visiting one of the many outlets in NYC and the surrounding areas.

At the shopping outlets in NYC, you’ll not only find a lot of trendy shops in one place but also significant discounts on designer clothes and your favorite brands. We have visited all the outlets in the area and are excited to share the best outlets in NYC for guaranteed bargains with you!

There are four major outlets in New York that can be reached from Manhattan within 2 hours or less: Woodbury Common Premium Outlet, The Mills at Jersey Gardens Outlet, Empire Outlets and Tanger Outlets.

Recommended article: Best Outlets in NYC

#17 Vintage Shopping in New York

There are lots of flea markets in New York . Apartments in the city are often small, so the locals are keen to declutter at every opportunity. Among the most popular flea markets in New York are Chelsea Flea Market (39 W 25th St), Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market (408-424 W 39th St), Hell’s Kitchen and Grand Bazaar (6902, 100 W 77th St). The stalls are packed with anything from vintage goods to jewelry, furniture, antiques, and bric-a-brac. New York’s flea markets are a real paradise for bargain hunters!

Good, affordable restaurants are a dime a dozen in New York. It’s just a question of knowing which ones are really worth a visit. As a general rule, you should steer clear of the tourist areas such as Times Square if you want to save money on eating out.

You’ll be overwhelmed by the choice – but sometimes by the prices as well! Don’t forget that tax (just under 9%) and tips (15 to 20%) have to be added on to the prices shown on the menu. And please don’t be stingy when it comes to tipping. This is considered extremely rude, and tips are an integral part of staff wages in the food industry.

And this is how to eat in New York on a budget:

#18 Eat Like a Local

Wherever there are many tourists, you pay more – that should be clear to everyone. Anyone who has ever paid $8 for a dry pretzel at the 9/11 Memorial knows what I’m talking about. That’s why I always give everyone the tip: Visit the real New York, get lost in areas like Brooklyn, Harlem or the Village. Here many small worthwhile restaurants with “for New York normal” prices lure you, without you paying the tourist flat rate on it. One of the best ways to visit New York City on a budget is to eat like a local. This means indulging in the city’s best and cheapest eateries. Think of breakfast at a bagel cart, halal food, $1 pizza slices, and more.

Recommended: One of my favorite option to eat in New York on a budget are the Food Markets .

#19 Eat Out During Happy Hour

Happy hour is common in NYC and is offered every day of the week in some places. Not only will you get good deals on drinks but food as well. In Manhattan, happy hours usually run between the hours of 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm. If you’re not sure where to find one of these places, just watch for signs out front or ask around among the locals.

You can also check out one of the many food trucks; usually, those with long lines are sure to signify that it’s a favorite among the locals. If all else fails, head to Chinatown or even the Lower East Side for food deals.

New York on a Budget

The bottom line is that visiting New York City on a budget may seem impossible, but it’s not. If you do some research and plan carefully, there are many ways to enjoy the city and save money. The most important thing to remember is that you should only splurge on necessities and don’t forget to always track your spending!

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

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New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips

It’s true: New York City ain’t cheap! Accommodation is notoriously expensive, and food can add up if you don’t know where to find cheap eats! But there’s good news: We’ve rounded up our top tips for traveling to NYC on a budget so you don’t come home from the Big Apple completely broke! Read up on money-saving advice, cheap places to eat and free things to do in New York City.

New York City is notoriously expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stick to a budget. There are plenty of free things to do in NYC and other ways you can save money during your trip.

We’ve put together our best money-saving tips for traveling in NYC so you don’t come home from vacation completely broke!

Whether this is your  first time visiting New York City  or The Big Apple feels like your second home, these tips will help you travel NYC for cheap!

Disclaimer:  There may be some affiliate links on this page, which means when you click we get a small percentage of the purchase at no extra cost to you. This allows us to keep sharing great travel tips, so feel free to click away!

1. Visit NYC at the Right Time

New York City is busy year round, but during peak tourist times, like the summer months and during the holidays, hotel prices will be ultra high. If you visit during a less busy season for out of town travelers, you’ll find much better rates.

Cheapest times to visit NYC:

• January – early April
• September – November (excluding holidays)

FIND THE CHEAPEST HOTELS ON BOOKING.COM

2. Find a cheap flight to NYC

Getting there doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are often times great flight deals to NYC because it is a major hub. Be sure to include both JFK and La Guardia, or even Newark, in your search.

Try seaching with Google Flights to come up with the best deal that suits your needs.

Here is an entire article dedicated to  finding cheap flights around the world !

3. Take the train to and from the airport

Whether you fly into JFK or La Guardia, you will be pretty far from the city when you land. Instead of hailing a taxi or Uber, which will cost you at least $40 – $50 (maybe even $65), take the shuttle to the metro. It is super easy to do and will save you a lot of money. 

Here’s how to do it:

For us, it was easiest to buy the 7-day metro pass (see tip #6), which allowed us to use the bus and metro unlimited times for our entire time in NYC. You can purchase the pass from the Metro Card vending machines which have very simple instructions to follow.

Once you have your card, simply use Google Maps and direct yourself to your hotel via public transportation.

Getting from La Guardia (LGA) to Manhattan:

From La Guardia Terminal B, take the Q70-SBS bus to Roosevelt Av/74 Street stop. Get off the bus and enter the metro at Roosevelt Av – Jackson Heights Subway Station. If you’re a little disoriented (I sure was), just ask the bus driver where the metro entrance is located. Once in the metro station, take the E line to 50 Street Subway Station toward World Trade Center, or connect a line leading you to your hotel. Total time is about 1 hour.

Getting from JFK to Manhattan:

Leaving from JFK Terminal 4, you have to purchase the $5 JFK AirTrain ticket which will take to Jamaica Station. From there you can connect to the NYC Metro and buy the 7-day Metro pass (tip #6) or a single ticket for $2.75 (plus $1 for the card). Then take the Long Beach line, Babylon line, or the E line into Manhattan and to your hotel. Total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

4. Find Cheap Accommodation

Hotels in New York City are notoriously expensive, even for low quality digs. So when we say “cheap accommodation”, we mean  relatively cheap.

Basically you have 2-ish options when it comes to finding cheap accommodation:

1) Go super cheap-o

Find the absolutely cheapest room you can find and be prepared for the worst. We paid $100 a night for the sh!ttiest hostel we’ve ever stayed at (pardon my language, but it has to be said). It was basically a closet with a window looking out to a wall and a dirty shared bathroom.

2) Pay a little more than you’d like

Alternatively, we stayed at a  hotel for the last 2 nights  of our trip that was a little more than double the price of aforementioned hostel (so it ain’t cheap!), but it was 1,000 times better. It was more than we’d typically spend anywhere else, but hey, it’s NYC.

5. Find Free & Cheap Things To Do

There are tons of things to do in NYC that will cost you absolutely nothing. Fill your days with free and cheap activities to save yourself some dough!

We’ve put together a pretty long list of  free and cheap things to do in New York City , but here are some of our favorites:

• Walk along the  NYC High Line
• Picnic in Central Park
• Explore the street art in the Bushwick neighborhood
• Watch the Today Show being filmed
• Take a Free Walking Tour
• Psst! If you’re spending some time in the neighborhood, make sure you check out this  extensive list of things to do in Brooklyn . Lots of them are free or cheap so you can stick to your budget!
• Get a great view of the city for free at  north 5th street pier and park

6. Get the Metro Pass

Getting an unlimited Metro pass saved us a ton of money during our trip to NYC. You can either get a 7-day unlimited pass or a 30-day unlimited pass.  We were only in the city for 4 full days, but even so, the week-long pass was a great deal. 

It costs $32 (plus $1 for the reusable card itself), but if you use the metro 11 times (which we definitely did in 4 days), it will pay for itself. 

Taking an Uber is another option in NYC (cheaper than taxis!) depending on where you want to go.

Insider Tip:  If you do want to take an Uber, the Uber Pool option is cheapest. This means the driver might pick up another passenger going on a similar route, but your total cost will be less expensive.

We would NOT recommend renting a car in NYC, as traffic is ugly and the cost of parking garages is insane!

7. Get the NYC CityPASS (maybe)

If it’s your  first time visiting New York City  and you want to see many of the major attractions, the  New York CityPASS  can be a good option. Starting at $132 per adult ($108 per youth), it’s not cheap up front, but it will truly save you money in the end if you want to hit all the major attractions (a 41% savings for an adult). Prices are from March 2019.

It gives you entrance to 6 activities throughout the city. Plus, at most attractions you will stand in a separate line, which in every single attraction we visited was much shorter than the line for purchasing tickets.

Go through the list of attractions included and mark the ones you definitely want to see to calculate if it makes sense for you to purchase.

CityPASS  includes admission to (prices are for adults):

• The Empire State Building (value $53.25)
• American Museum of Natural History (value $28)
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (value $25)
• Top of the Rock Observation Deck (value $39.20)  OR  Guggenheim Museum (value $25)
• Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (value $18.50)  OR  Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises (value $37)
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum (value $24)  OR  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (value $33)

Only interested in a few… There is another option:  You could purchase the  New York C3 pass , where for $83 per adult ($63 per child) and you get to choose any 3 attractions above to visit. It’s up to a 25% savings off the original price. If you’re  traveling in NYC with kids , this is a great option.

8. See the Statue of Liberty for Free!

If your budget is tight, skip the Statue of Liberty tour altogether. Instead, take the Staten Island Ferry (which is free!) and brings you right past the statue. Just check out the picture above to see the sweet view you’ll get — right next to the sightseeing cruises!

Insider Tip:  Be sure to grab a spot on the upper deck on the right side (west side) of the vessel as you leave Manhattan.

You can either get right back on the return ferry once you arrive in Staten Island, or wander around a bit and grab lunch at one of the affordable Sri Lankan restaurants in the area. The ferries depart every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour and are 100% free.

And even if your budget isn’t super tight, this is a good, less-touristy option.

9. Pay as you wish Museum Entry

Did you know that some of NYC’s most famous museums have pay-as-you-wish entry all the time?  Yes, even the American Museum of Natural History!  This makes these national treasures accessible to all.

And if a museum isn’t pay as you wish, there’s a good chance they have specific days or times that entry is free. Here are some examples:

• 9/11 Memorial:  FREE on Tuesdays from 5 – 8 p.m.
• Museum of Modern Art (MOMA):  FREE on Fridays from 4 – 8 p.m.
• New York Botanical Garden:  FREE all day Wednesdays, and from 9 – 10 a.m. on Saturdays

Take a look at  this list of free museum days  so you know when to plan your visit. Just know that on free entrance days, there is typically a longer queue.

10. Get Discount Broadway Tickets

Seeing a Broadway show is on most people’s Bucket List when visiting NYC. If you don’t do much research, you can expect to pay a hefty price for those tickets.

But luckily there are ways to score seats at a Broadway show for cheap! The most common way to get your tickets for cheap is to head to a TKTS booth where you can score same-day tickets that can be up to half-off! Or you can check  online at TodayTix  to find hot deals today.

Here’s everything you need to know about  getting discounted tickets to Broadway shows .

And if you can’t get a cheap ticket, but still want to be entertained, head to  Ellen’s Stardust Diner , order a milkshake and fries, and prepare to be wowed by the talented performers that are sometimes up-and-coming Broadway stars!

11. Know Where to Eat for Cheap

You can easily spend your entire budget on food in NYC. And while we definitely had some worthy splurges, like a $24 lobster roll at The Frying Pan, we tried our best to find some cheap eats.

You’ll have no problem finding cheap eats if you know where to look:

• You’ll find  Food Trucks  all around the city . Some are cheaper than others, but there are tons of intriguing options, from Korean BBQ to gyros.
• Dollar slices of pizza  are an NYC staple, and can be found all around town. Try Joes’ Pizza for the most famous $1 slice, or scout out one of the other 70 shops in the city that boast dollar slices (there’s even  an app for that !).  Good to know:  If you’re looking for the  best pizza in NYC , you might need to shell over a bit more than a measly dollar, but it’s still a pretty affordable option most of the time!

Insider Tip:  When looking for a meal, stay away from Midtown and other super touristy areas. The quality will be poor and the prices are high. Instead, head to nearby Chinatown, Greenwich Village or the Lower East Side for more affordable (and higher quality) bites.

• Head to Chinatown  for ultra cheap eats! 
• Don’t miss  Los Tacos No. 1 .  Their famous tacos are like little bites from heaven and start at $3.25.

• Bagels  filled with lots of toppings are usually a good budget option.
• Famous NYC hot dogs  at Papaya King or Gray’s Papaya.
• Mamoun’s  for quite possibly the cheapest (and best!) falafel you’ll find in the city!

Check out this  local’s roundup of cheap eats in NYC !

12. Cook & Picnic

If you really want to cut costs on food, choose an hotel or hostel with a kitchen so you can eat in for at least a couple meals, saving money (and calories!). You can easily make a cheap breakfast of fruit, yogurt, toast and eggs, and save the splurges for later in the day.

And if you’re really trying to pinch pennies, try packing a lunch for the day. There are plenty of perfect spots for picnicking around the city. Umm, Central Park anyone?! Just be sure to pack your  To-Go Ware utensils ! Pair your Central Park picnic with a stroll by the Belvedere Castle and you’ve got a pretty  romantic day in New York , and the best part is it’s free!

13. Hit up Happy Hour

Drinks in NYC can be pretty expensive, so if you want to indulge without cleaning your wallet, plan on hitting happy hour.

Here’s a round up of a ton of  happy hour options in NYC .

And order a couple appetizers to split for a light dinner that’ll have a smaller price tag than a regular entree.

Or buy your drinks at a liquor shop and enjoy them at your hotel before going out for the night.

14. Drink from the tap… err, fountain

It is totally safe to drink the tap water in New York City, so go ahead and drink up! You’ll find plenty of drinking fountains all around the city ( check out this map! ), especially in public parks. Fill up your reusable bottle to  save plastic waste  and cash.

15. Plan out your splurges

When you’re visiting NYC, you won’t want to miss out on those bucket list items you’ve been dreaming about. Make the most of your time here, plan ahead and budget accordingly.

If you want to get an iconic view of the city, there are many options. But do your research and choose only one. 

Insider Advice:  Our pick is the Top of the Rock instead of the Empire State Building, since you won’t be surrounded by glass and you get the iconic Empire State Building INSIDE your shots!

There are plenty of cheap eats in NYC (see tip #11), but there are also some of the best restaurants in the world here as well. Plan on one meal that you’ll splurge on instead of 10.

Or get the biggest bang for your buck and try a little of everything on a  New York City food tour .

Just be sure to research it ahead of time and plan it out so you don’t accidentally splurge on something unworthy.

For example, we split a $24 lobster roll at the Frying Pan, which was amazing. But we couldn’t justify ordering two, so we filled up on cheap slices of pizza as well.

16. Find Free Events

There is always something going on in New York City. Find out what free events and festivals are taking place during your visit on  Time Out NYC .

Examples of free events in NYC:

• Target First Saturdays:  First Saturday of the month, free admission to Brooklyn Museum with live DJ and art!
• free yoga classes
• free  Shakespeare in the Park  (summer only)
• food markets and festivals
• free concerts

No matter the time of year, there are always events going on in this city, so there’s a good chance your visit will overlap with at least one free event that interests you!

17. Set a budget and track your spending

All these tips are great, but they’re going to do you no good if you don’t track your expenses. New York City is a place where it is easy to overspend. A bagel here and an entry ticket there will add up fast. And if you aren’t writing them down, you’ll have no clue how over-budget you’ve gone.

Here’s what I want you to do: Figure out what your total budget for your trip to NYC is, and hold yourself accountable.

There are plenty of apps out there that let you set daily budget goals and show you how much you have left to spend.

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We want to hear from you! 

What tip is most useful to you? Have you traveled to New York City on a budget? How did you save money? Share with us in the comments below!

Comments (25) on “ New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips ”

Beautiful blog post with very narrative information. Thank you for sharing

Just looked into the AMNH and the website clearly say the pay as you wish is only for NY, NJ and Connecticut residents:( can you explain why it’s on this list

I am hoping to take my fam to NYC this summer, and this article is sure to be revisited more than once before then! Thanks!

I want to take my 13 year old grandson there in June 2021. I will be coming back to this post for more insight & help to get the best experience for our budget. I have not been to NYC in decades………….

I have yet to visit but am incredibly interested in going to NY city. This article is very inspiring, making me feel that this is actually possible sooner rather than later. If anyone knows of a good place to stay that is in a optimal location and reasonably priced (for NY), I’d appreciate any tips or advice. I can see the value of having a comfortable place to come back to but am definitely on a budget.

I have to tell you I’ve been planning my trip for awhile. If you book in advance hotel Edison is nice. We are staying there with taxes for 850 For 5 nights BUT it is within walking distance to 90 percent of things we are doing. However , we wanted to stay for a week , so on the weekend we are staying at a cheaper place , for the 2 nights we are staying at the US pacific hotel right when we get there for 98.00 total . It’s cheap but near Chinatown and little Italy. Because we will be on that side of the town first , we can visit that and also 911 memorial , one World Trade Center And Statue of Liberty. That’ll be a good start for the fly in day and the next day. Then move to the hotel Edison to a nice comfy bed . Most other places like Empire State and top of the world grand central station park etc etc etc etc is less that a 17 minute walk !!!!! Y’all about saving money and time !

Go in June ?. If you’re going in summer. Cheaper

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• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to New York City Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to New York City?

How much does a weekend trip to new york city cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to New York City cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to New York City cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to New York City

A trip to New York City for one person usually costs between $115 and $1,017 per day and $231 to $2,035 for two people. This is a wide range of costs, and the daily average per person from our data is $326 per person. This average includes food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses contributed from other travelers. Prices can vary based on travel style and activities. While the overall price for a trip to New York City is dependent on your personal travel style and the specific places you visit, if you book standard accommodation and travel with an average level of convenience, then your budget should be somewhere close to this average cost. Later in this article, you can find a breakdown of travel expenses by category, plus a general price range of accommodation and activity costs for your visit. Also, the prices for individual attractions and hotels may vary, but generally fall somewhat close to the price ranges described in this article.

If you're planning an Independent trip to New York City, budget travelers should plan to spend around $115 per day for their trip. This average includes hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and activities. If you're on a mid-range budget, plan for around $326 a day which covers the cost of typical hotels, normal restaurants, and a variety of popular attractions. Luxury travelers should allow for $1,017 a day, which would cover higher-end hotels, nicer restaurants, and more private tour options. All of these price ranges are based on our extensive travel cost data for New York City from other travelers, along with hotel and tour data from travel companies.

On average, travelers spend around $977 per person during a three-day trip to New York City. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as New York City offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to New York City cost?

With five days in New York City, you can expect to spend about $1,629 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to New York City cost?

Most visitors spend between $808 and $7,121 for a one week trip to New York City, with the average being $2,281 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in New York City. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in New York City

With more than 10 hostels in New York City, the average price is $53 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $20 and the most expensive is $80. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in New York City here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in New York City.

• $39 for a dorm bed at HI NYC Hostel in New York more details
• $55 for a dorm bed at The Local NYC in New York more details
• $50 for a dorm bed at International Student Center in New York more details

Hotel Prices in New York City

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the New York City, the average price for a hotel room is $175 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in New York City here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Merrion Row Hotel and Public House

Blakely new york hotel.

Should you do a tour in New York City?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and New York City has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from $20 for the Walking tour in Manhattan Brooklyn Bridge and Waterfront to $1,000 for the New York New Year's Day Signature Dinner Cruise .

• Central Park PAW Pedicab Tour Viator $ 120
• Central Park PAW Pedicab Tour: $120
• New York City Historic Walking Tour of Hamilton and Washington: $50
• Flavors of NYC Chinatown Food and History Walking Tour with FNYT: $84
• Hidden NYC Foodie Tour: $99
• Central Park Photography Tour with Local Photographer: $100
• Central Park Highlights Running Tour: $44
• Brooklyn NYC Food & Walking Tour with a 5th Generation New Yorker: $68
• Walking Tour of Central Park’s Highlights: $35

More for New York City

If you're planning a trip to New York City, New York, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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Daily costs to visit new york city | nyc price guide.

The daily costs to visit New York City on a budget. How much to budget for food, accommodation, attractions, & more

New York City

New York City is one of the most-loved and most-visited cities in the world, but it’s also one of the most expensive travel destinations—I should know, I’ve lived here for more than seven years.

So how much does it cost to visit NYC? Well, that truly depends on your travel style. That’s why I’ve created this NYC Price Guide to give you some ballpark travel costs tailored for the average budget-conscious traveler.

This article is part of our City Price Guide Series —  Click here to see all our city price guides .

Average Daily Costs To Visit New York City

These NYC travel prices are calculated based on what you’ll need to visit New York comfortably — so it includes things like food, accommodation, sightseeing, transportation, etc.

But I haven’t included “extra” things like big nights out at the bar, club entry fees, souvenir/clothing shopping, tours, random purchases, higher-end dining, etc.  Don’t forget to budget extra for those “non-essentials.”

DAILY COST OF BUDGET TRAVEL IN NYC: $135-$220

• Attractions : $25 (one paid attraction + any free sights)
• Breakfast: $3-$7
• Lunch: $8-$14
• Dinner: $10-$20
• Treat (dessert/beer/wine): $7
• Transportation : $6
• Accommodation  (average hostel): $65/night
• Accommodation  (budget hotel): $150/night

DAILY COST OF FRUGAL TRAVEL IN NYC: $75

• Attractions : $10 (free walking tour + visit one of the free sights)
• Breakfast: $3-$4
• Lunch: $7 (ethnic street food, takeaway shop fare, deli sandwich, or similar)
• Dinner: $12 (make your own meal in the hostel or grab something cheap)
• Cheap Beer or treat: $4
• Transportation : $0 (explore by foot)
• Accommodation  (cheap hostel bed): $35

Don’t forget to buy a mobile data plan for your phone when you visit. Check out The Savvy Backpacker’s  Guide To The Best Prepaid Data Plans For the USA .

New York City Attraction and Museum Prices

Most of New York’s major paid attractions and museums are expensive so take that into consideration when you’re budgeting your trip. Here are a few of the most popular NYC attractions:

• Museum of Modern Art: $25
• Metropolitan Museum of Art: $30
• Guggenheim Museum: $25
• Natural History Museum: $28
• Whitney Art Museum: $25
• Top Of The Rock/Empire State Building Observatories: $40-$60
• Broadway Tickets: Averages around $100/ticket but range from $60-$250+

Note: Many museums have free/pay-what-you-wish days but expect huge crowds so get there early. Here is a complete list at NYC-Arts.org but here are a few highlights:

• Museum of Modern Art: 4-8 pm every Friday
• Whitney Museum of American Art: 7-9:30 pm every Friday
• Frick Collection: 11 am-1 pm is pay-what-you-wish every Sunday

Budget Tip:  Consider picking up the New York Pass if you want to see a lot in a short amount of time. You can read our  New York Pass Review  to see if it’s right for your trip.

New York City Food Prices

NYC has some of the best dining options in the world but eating out can quickly bust your budget. That said, there are a few budget-friendly options but I highly suggest adding a little extra to your food budget so you can eat at a few of NYC’s restaurants.

Local Tip: I highly suggest doing some research when it comes to eating in NYC as there are plenty of overpriced/low-quality establishments. I’ll give you some of my favorite spots but you should do some research as well.

NYC Budget Breakfast Options & Prices

New York has just about every breakfast option under the sun. Here are some sample prices:

• A bagel with cream cheese will cost between $3-$6. A bagel sandwich with eggs and cheese will run you around $5-$8. For a cheap, no-frills bagel with bacon, egg, and cheese , simply stop into just about any bodega.
• Basic coffee and croissant will set you back about $4-$7.
• A basic doughnut from a Dunkin is around $1.75-$2/each but a higher-end doughnut will cost between $3.75-$4.50/each.
• A typical omelet from a diner will be anywhere from $6.50-$10.
• You can buy affordable fruit from street vendors for cheaper than at the grocery store.

NYC Budget Lunch/Dinner Options & Prices

Most New Yorkers have very little time for lunch so they eat at their desks. That’s why you’ll find an abundance of takeaway restaurants serving soups, salads, and sandwiches — it’s pretty amazing how quickly these places crank this stuff out. Below are a few examples of typical food prices in NYC:

• Street food carts sell a range of affordable options like tacos, chicken over rice, hot dogs, gyros, etc. Most things tend to cost between $5-$9. There are also specialty food carts that tend to cost a little more.
• A premade sandwich or panini from a bodega/deli is usually $7-$10.
• A make-your-own salad typically costs between $8-$14.
• A slice of pizza will run you from $1.50 for a cheap slice to around $3.00-$5.50 for a quality slice.
• A quality personal Neapolitan pizza will set you back around $14-$18. A sharable pizza costs $22-$30.
• A good taco costs around $3-$5/each and a burrito will be $9-$10.
• Chicken and waffles from a Harlem soul food joint tend to cost around $18.
• Chinese food from Chinatown offers plenty of budget-friendly options. An order of soup dumplings cost around $8-$10 for eight dumplings. Other main dishes will range from $10-$18+ depending on what you get.
• Tasty ramen from most quality ramen restaurants will be around $9-$14.
• Two hotdogs and a drink from Gray’s Papaya is $8.
• A double Shack Burger from Shake Shack is $8. Add another $3 for fries. A burger and fries at a sit-down restaurant will run you around $12-$19.

My favorite budget-friendly Lunch and Dinner Restaurants (aka Meals around $10)

Here’s a list of places I eat when I’m on a budget. This is by no means an exhaustive list of every budget restaurant in NYC (I’m working on a bigger list) but these are all solid places.

• Joe’s Pizza: Old-school and no-frills takeaway pizza joint in Greenwich Village that’s been around since 1975. Cheese slices are $3 each. Joe’s now has multiple locations. See Locations on Google Maps
• 2 Bros Pizza: New York has plenty of $1.50 slice pizza joints but 2 Bros. is your best bet. It’s not gourmet but it’s a solid option if you’re on a budget. See Locations on Google Maps
• Halal Guys: This famous middle eastern restaurant started off as a food cart but got so popular it expanded to two other storefronts. A regular gyro platter is about $10. It’s plenty filling, delicious, and a local favorite. See Locations on Google Maps
• Num Pang: This joint serves up delicious Cambodian sandwiches ($9-$12/each) and a few other things like soups and salads. This is a personal favorite of mine when I’m on the go. They have multiple locations. See Locations on Google Maps
• Shake Shack: Ahh, yes. The famous Shake Shack. This is my favorite fast-food burger restaurant in NYC. A ShackBurger and an order of their famous fries will set you back about $10. There are 20+ locations in NYC so they’re easy to find (but always busy). See Locations on Google
• Gray’s Papaya: You can get a famous “dirty water dog” from street vendors on just about every street but I prefer getting my cheap hotdogs from Gray’s Papaya (they’ve been around for years). It’s certainly no-frills but it’s cheap — around $7 for two hot dogs + a drink. See Locations on Google Maps
• Charles Country Pan-Fried Chicken: Budget travelers should head up to Harlem for filling and authentic soul food for affordable prices. At the no-frills Charles County (which is also a James Beard Award finalist), you’ll get two pieces of chicken, two 2 sides, and cornbread for about $12. See on Google Maps
• Vanessa’s Dumpling House: You can find excellent (and affordable) dumplings at multiple Chinese restaurants in Chinatown but Vanessa’s is a longtime local favorite. Vanessa’s is no-frills but you’ll walk out stuffed for under $15. See Location on Google Maps
• Xi’an Famous Foods: Excellent northwestern Chinese hand-pulled noodles for around $10. Yes, please. I love this place. These guys started in a humble 200-square-foot basement stall in Flushing, NY but have exploded in popularity so they now have 15 locations in NYC. See Locations on Google Maps
• Absolute Bagels : This is my favorite bagel joint in NYC (expect a line every weekend morning). The bagels are made fresh all day. Its Upper West Side location is a bit out of the way if you’re downtown but it’s worth checkout out if you’re in the hood. See on Google Maps
• Mamoun’s: This local favorite Middle Eastern chain has been serving falafel, shawarma, kebabs & more for very affordable prices since 1971. Sandwiches are $6-$8 and a combo plate is around $10-12. They now have multiple locations. See On Google Maps
• Malatesta Trattoria: Malatesta is a charming little cash-only Italian joint in the West Village that serves up tasty homemade pasta at fair prices. A main pasta dish costs $12-$15. They’re always bustling (plus they have outside seating in the summer) so reservations are recommended. See on Google Maps
• Ramen: NYC has plenty of excellent ramen restaurants and you can expect to spend around $13-$15 for a bowl. My favorite ramen restaurants are Hide-Chan , Ipuudo , and Totto (but there are plenty of other options).
• Bánh Mì Saigon: Bánh Mì Saigon is a tiny, bare-bones joint that serves up classic Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches priced around $6-$8. See on Google Maps
• Superiority Burger: This small vegetarian restaurant is famous for its veggie burgers and plenty of other excellent vegetarian/vegan options. The Standard veggie burger is a bit small and costs $6 but they have a “normal” size burger for $9. See on Google Maps

NYC Drink & Dessert Prices

It’s easy to be tempted by all the desserts, coffee, and alcohol in NYC. In fact, it’s good to treat yourself but it doesn’t come cheap. In fact, alcohol is a real budget killer.

• Cocktails tend to start around $13 but can easily be $18-$22.
• A typical domestic beer costs $6-$8 but nicer beers are $8-$12. You can find cheaper alcohol options during happy hour if you seek them out.
• An espresso or simple black coffee will run you around $3-$3.50. Cappuccinos and similar coffee drinks will set you back around $5.00-$6.00.
• Two scoops of quality ice cream will cost $5-$8.
• Really good cookies are generally around $4,50-$6.
• Specialty doughnuts cost $3-$5/each.

New York City Transportation Prices

NYC is a big city with multiple excellent neighborhoods so you’ll certainly want to use public transportation at least once or twice a day.

Subway and Bus

The best and most affordable way to get around NYC is the subway. A single ride costs $2.75 and a 7-Day Unlimited Ride pass is $33 . Unfortunately, there isn’t an unlimited day pass.

The bus uses the same ticket as the subway.

Taxis and Uber/Lyft

Taxis are plentiful in Manhattan (unless it’s raining) and you rarely have to wait for more than a few minutes for an Uber — but they’re both a lot more expensive than taking the subway. Expect to pay $15-$35 for a ride within Manhattan.

NYC Accommodation Prices

Staying in Manhattan is expensive — even shoebox-sized hotel rooms are far from cheap. Options get a little cheaper in Brooklyn, Queens, or New Jersey. But, if you can afford it, I recommend trying to stay in Manhattan to get the true New York City experience.

Average NYC Hotel Prices

If you have the cash, I recommend staying in Manhattan. Specifically, I recommend staying in downtown Manhattan but most visitors end up staying in Midtown (i.e. around Times Square).

Here are average hotel prices for Manhattan (based on a mid-June stay):

• Average Two-Star Hotel Prices: The average price per night is $175 (ranges from $150-$250).
• Average Three-Star Hotel Prices: The average price per night is $225 (ranges from $175-$330).
• Average Four-Star Hotel Prices: The average price per night is $270 (ranges from $215-$380).

Average NYC Hostel Prices

While NYC does have a handful of hostels, it doesn’t have many when you compare it to European cities — therefore prices tend to be comparatively high. Check out our guide to the best hostels in NYC to learn more about my top-hostel picks but below are the average hostel prices for NYC:

A bed in a good hostel will cost anywhere from about  $40-$80/night  with an  average of around $55/night . The cheapest hostel you’ll find will cost around $35/night but the quality most likely won’t be great.

Also, many NYC hostels only have private rooms so they’re more like “budget hotels” — which also means the prices are higher at these hostels since you have privacy.

NYC’s Top-Rated Hostels:

• Prices start around $100 for a single, $134 for a double, and $140 for a triple (via  Hostelworld ):
• Prices start around $55/night (via  Hostelworld ):
• Prices start around $120/night for a single, $280 for a double, & $335 for a 4-bed room (via  Hostelworld ):
• Prices start around $45/night (via  Hostelworld ):

NOTE: These are “high-season” prices for the cheapest bed option — off-season prices will be 20%-30% cheaper. Also, prices are often a little more expensive on Friday and Saturday nights than on weeknights. 

Check  Hostelworld  to get exact prices for your dates.

More NYC Travel Tips

I’m constantly adding new NYC travel tips to The Savvy Backpacker. Check them out!

• New York City Travel Guide
• The Best Things to Do in NYC
• The Best Hotels in NYC
• New York Pass Review
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NYC On A Budget: 15 Tips For Cheap Travel To New York

Sure, New York City can be expensive (it was recently named one of the world’s 10 priciest cities to live in). But here’s the thing—a vacation to NYC really doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are a lot of ways to keep your trip to super affordable. Seriously! Here are 15 ways to travel to New York City on a budget.

Questions after reading our *two cents* (sorry, bad joke)? Send us a message !

#1: Don’t stay in Manhattan

If you’re wondering where to stay in New York that won’t consume your entire travel budget, here’s a tip: don’t limit yourself to Manhattan. You’ll find much better deals on hotels and Airbnbs in other boroughs—without sacrificing your experience.

Brooklyn neighborhoods like Park Slope and Williamsburg are full of New York charm (not to mention tons of awesome restaurants, bodegas, bars, and parks). A three-star hotel in Brooklyn or Queens can save you around $100/night compared to one in Manhattan. Cha-ching! That means more cash for Broadway tickets (or hot dogs, we don’t judge).

Maybe  you'll opt for the ultimate money-saving accommodations by camping upstate. Our locals in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills can help any camping or hiking you want to do in their backyard.  Learn more . 

#2: Use the subway to get around

Knowing how to use New York’s public transportation is crucial, since the subway is hands-down the best and cheapest way to get around. It’s safe, easy to use, and extensive. We get it can be intimidating for first time users—but it’s so worth it. A single ride is less than $3, which is pennies in comparison to the $30–$60 you may spend on an Uber or taxi.

Our friends at  Two Wandering Soles suggest getting the 7-day unlimited pass. Check out their other budget tips ! 

#3: Eat like a local

One of the best ways to keep your NYC trip under budget is to eat like a local—by indulging in the city’s incredible cheap eats! We’re talking breakfast cart bagels , $1 pizza slices, halal food , and more. Our advice: chat with New York local about their favorite places for dollar dumplings, cheap falafel, and the best happy hour deals around.

#4: Take advantage of museum deals

Lots of frequently asked questions about NYC concern its museums. Which ones are the best? What’s absolutely worth seeing? Do I have to go to the Met and the MoMA? (answer: yes.) Are they expensive?

Here’s the truth: in New York, no one pays the full price at museums. That’s because most museums in NYC have free days as well as pay-as-you-wish days—so do a bit of research and you’ll have no trouble staying under budget! Psst—the Brooklyn Museum and the American Museum of Natural History are always pay-as-you-wish. And they’re both awesome!

#5: Don’t spend $ chasing the best views—check out these free vistas instead

Speaking of free, don’t overspend for views at the Empire State Building or 1 World Trade Center. There are free ways to get awesome panoramic views of NYC—and some are even better than the ones you have to pay for.

• The Staten Island Ferry: The Staten Island Ferry is free to take, and it provides incredible views of the Manhattan skyline as well as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (it sails right by both). It’s also a wonderful way to cool down on a summer day. Plus, they sell beer on board!
• The High Line: The High Line is an impressive way to see the city from an unusual perspective. Once an elevated railroad, the High Line is now a park filled with greenery and public art.
• Brooklyn Heights Promenade: For a killer Manhattan view, check out the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The gorgeous, serene view of the skyline across the water will make your Instagram followers so jealous.
• The one exception: The view from the Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) is pretty phenomenal—plus, you get to actually *see* all the famous buildings. So if you’re going to pay for a view in New York City, pay for a view there.

#6: Walk or bike between activities and sights

New York City is so walkable. Manhattan is largely designed as a grid, making it easy to navigate even for the most directionally-challenged among us. Plus, Citi bikes are everywhere .

#7: Plan your trip for the winter

New York travel prices can be steep, especially during peak travel seasons. If you’re looking to design a budget trip to New York City, think about visiting in the winter.

Will it be cold? Yes, probably. But New York City in the winter is a magical place. Between ice-skating, hot chocolate, and holiday decorations, it’s an enchanting time of year to visit (and you’ll save some major bucks by traveling in the off-season).

#8: Find cheaper (and more authentic) versions of typical tourist destination

Avoid the tourist traps and see New York like a local . There are tons of ways to experience classic NYC activities (like comedy shows and bakery crawls) on the cheap—and without the tourist crowd. These tips are just the ‘tip of the iceberg’ though— talk to an NYC trip planner for a boatload of 1:1 personalized recs.

• Instead of the Comedy Cellar, go to an open-mic night: There are so many bars and theaters around New York that have free live comedy! The comedy may be more hit-and-miss, but you’ll definitely stumble upon some gems. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (UCB) is a local favorite.
• Instead of Little Italy, go to Arthur Avenue: New Yorkers know that Little Italy hasn’t been the best place in town for Italian food in almost a century. Instead, head north to the Bronx. Arthur Avenue has some of the best Italian eats in town.
• Instead of Magnolia Bakery, go to Molly’s Cupcakes: Sure you could visit the bakery made famous by Sex in the City, but to satisfy a sweet tooth without the crowds, opt for a cupcake at Molly’s Cupcakes or a cookie at Levain Bakery (it’s a local favorite).

#9: Explore the city’s amazing parks

Don’t get us wrong, Central Park is breathtaking. It’s full of great trails, a zoo, beautiful lakes (look out for the hot duck !) and plenty of green space. But the New York City park scene is way more than just Central Park.

• Prospect Park: Nestled alongside the fantastic Brooklyn Museum and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens you might like Prospect Park even more than Central Park. Full of green space, gorgeous lakes, and beautiful shady bridges, you can spend an entire afternoon exploring the nooks and crannies of this magical part of Brooklyn.
• Washington Square Park : There’s always something happening in Washington Square Park. The center of the vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood, Washington Square is home to New York University—making it a youthful, lively spot. There are always people around—lounging in the grass, listening to live music, or challenging each other to a game of chess.
• Riverside Park : One of the less-frequented parks in New York City, Riverside Park runs along the Hudson River parallel to Columbia University’s campus on the Upper West Side. We suggest walking north through the park and then looping back toward Columbia—there, you can check out President Ulysses S. Grant’s tomb .

#10: Make sure to get discount Broadway tickets

Obviously, catching a Broadway show is one of the things to do in New York City. And yes—you can do it on the cheap!

Here’s what you do: check out the TKTS Booth in Times Square (there are also locations in Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan). There, you can find theatre tickets with steep discounts: sometimes up to 50% off! Get there early in the day to grab tickets before they’re gone.

Pro tip : If you do choose to pick up tickets in Times Square, be on your guard. Although New York City is safe , Times Square is a tourist hub, and pickpockets (and scam artists) know it. For more info on common scams, talk to someone who lives in New York .

#11: For phenomenal views on the cheap, walk across the bridges

You could spend a precious subway swipe to get to Brooklyn. Or, for free, you could simply walk across one of the incredible bridges that connect Brooklyn to Manhattan. This is an awesome, free activity: not only does it offer some amazing views, but it’s also an excellent way to traverse the city.

• The Brooklyn Bridge: The iconic Brooklyn Bridge is the top walking choice for many visitors—historic and easily accessible, it provides awesome views of lower Manhattan. Plus, there are no trains, which (aside from the chatter of other people) makes it a quieter walk.
• The Manhattan Bridge: One of the best parts of crossing the Manhattan bridge is the view it provides of the Brooklyn Bridge! And since most tourists opt to cross the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan bridge is a good way to avoid the crowds.
• The Williamsburg Bridge: Williamsburg is so hip, and what’s more hipster than using an alternative form of transportation? The perk here is the double view of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. As trains run across the Williamsburg Bridge and Manhattan Bridge, they can get loud, however.

#12: Check out all the awesome, free historical sights

If you love history, you’re in luck: New York City is bursting with historical landmarks, monuments, and memorials. As public spaces, they’re totally free to check out. Some of our favorite places to visit in New York involve history (like Alexander Hamiton’s grave at Trinity Church, the Civil War arch north of Prospect Park, and that Grant tomb we mentioned earlier).

Check these sites out for sure, but for total immersion in New York’s history ask a local history buff to make you a custom walking map that hits the spots you want to see. 

#13: Sign up to be in the audience of a live show

Do you love late night TV? Great news—you can attend your favorite late night shows for free . It just takes some advance planning. Shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and the Daily Show with Trevor Noah offer deals on free tickets.

#14: Cheers! Take a free brewery tour

Craft beer is having a  moment in  New York. There are a lot of awesome breweries around town—and many of them offer tours! The Chelsea Brewery , Brooklyn Brewery (the basic tour), and The Bronx Brewery all offer free * tours.

*Of course, we can’t guarantee that you won’t spend a few bucks after the tour.

#15: Get insider recommendations from a New York local

When it comes to things to do in New York, you could rely on Google articles from three years ago—or you could ask a trip planner who actually *lives* in New York for recommendations.  They know all the best stuff to do, see, and experience at any budget—because New York is their city! Plus, since your local creates a custom itinerary just for you, you’ll get to see all the stuff you want without a bunch of boring filler activities. No fiddling with annoying logistics! And who knows—you might even become best friends.

You’re totally prepared to enjoy the best of New York City—without emptying your savings for the trip! For even more budget tips, be sure to talk with a local NYC travel expert . They’ll help design a custom itinerary that hits everything you want to see, plus all the insider secrets you could ever need. Even better, they’ll be around with 24/7 phone support to help if you run into any issues. Any questions? Feel free to send us a message ! And don’t forget to check out:

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• NYC Travel FAQ 2024
• Prices in New York—A Guide to Spending Money
• Places to Stay in New York City
• The Dos and Don'ts of New York Travel
• Things to Do in NYC 2024
• Transportation in New York City—A Guide

Looking for more info?

Planning a trip to New York on a budget

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Planning a trip to New York on a budget sort of feels like going to the top of the Empire State Building… by scaling the side of the building. Impossibly tall, plenty of opportunities to slip and fall (and have your wallet spill cash all over that busy sidewalk). We spent a week visiting NYC on a budget as a family of four and we’re bringing you some of our best tips for how to explore the the Big Apple without going broke. Be sure to share your best budget NYC tips below in the comments!

The cheapest way to get to New York

Best places to stay in new york on a budget, how to get around nyc, cheap eats in nyc, how to save money on sightseeing in new york city, roundup: best tips for planning a trip to new york on a budget.

Obviously there are many different ways to get to NYC, and the cheapest one will depend on where you live. The choices for travel to New York are plane, train, bus and even boat.

Flights to NYC

Fortunately, New York city has three major airports that are served by dozens of airlines. Airfares to the New York are getting more competitive every week! Check out some of the best deals for your dates on Skyscanner , which we like because it’s one of the most comprehensive search engines on the web and it offers huge flexibility for origin, destination and travel dates.

Is it worth using frequent flyer miles for a domestic flight to New York? Probably not. But there are a few tricks to using credit card miles to fly to New York.

If you have a small business, run don’t walk to apply for the Chase Ink Business Preferred credit card. It offers some of the most flexible rewards around, including two great ways to redeem your points for a discount flight to NYC. We use both the Ink Business Preferred and the personal Chase Sapphire Reserve, but the business card has two advantages: the annual fee is just $95 compared with $450 on the Sapphire Reserve and the sign up bonus now is 80,000 points on the business card compared with 50,000 on the personal card. Both cards earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel expenses. Check out the details here.

But the best strategy is to get both cards if you can. Why? Because the Sapphire Reserve also gives you 3 points for every dollar you spend on restaurants – great for frequent travelers – and if you redeem those points through Chase’s excellent booking portal each one is worth 1.5 cents with the personal card versus 1.25 cents with the business card. Chase allows you to pool all your points across your cards and even across family members, so having both cards in your wallet lets you redeem all your points at the higher value!

Once you rack up all those points, what does that mean for you, the would-be New York traveler? You have two great options to use those points to get a New York plane ticket for less: transfer to an airline partner or redeem through the portal.

Redeeming points through the portal is extremely easy. Log in, search for the flights you want, purchase. If the flight costs $100 one-way, you’ll be charged just 6,667 points if you have the Sapphire Reserve or 8,000 points if you have the Ink Business Preferred. You can fly any airline that’s listed and you’ll even earn frequent flyer miles as if you’re a revenue passenger.

It may be a better value to take advantage of the distance-based award chart offered by British Airways if you’re flying from nearby – their partnership with American Airlines offers access to plenty of domestic flights. Even if you’re American, you can make a frequent flyer account with British Airways and instantly transfer points to it. Then redeem just 7,500 of those points for any flight within the US that’s under 1,150 miles! Whether you’re flying from Chicago or Charlotte, you’re covered. Slightly longer flights like Dallas clock in at 10,000 miles each way.

If there isn’t a route available using Avios, check out Ultimate Rewards redemptions through United airlines. They aren’t quite as lucrative, but flights under 700 miles can be purchased for 10,000 miles and longer domestic flights are 12,500 for saver awards.

What’s the most convenient airport in New York city?

That’s a common question for visitors to New York City, and in part it depends on where you want to go. Most travelers prefer JFK or Newark for their more extensive routes and public transportation options, while Laguardia is technically the closest.

If you plan to take a taxi or Uber from the airport to Manhattan, Laguardia will be the least expensive option and Newark the most expensive option. Which will be fastest depends a lot on where in the city you want to go and what time of day you’ll arrive. If you prefer public transit, JFK is the most convenient since its Airtrain links up with the subway, but Newark is a close second with train service to Penn Station. Be sure to factor your ground travel time and costs in along with the flight schedules and costs.

Flying into JFK? Check out the best ways to get to Manhattan from JFK .

Here are the best ways to get from Newark to Manhattan

Taking the train to New York

If you’re on the east coast along one of Amtrak’s routes, the train can be a great way to get to New York City! You’ll find convenient schedules throughout the region. For traveler’s coming to New York City from Washington DC on up to Portland, Maine you’re likely to find that train travel is at least as fast as air travel when you factor in getting to your local airport, security lines, flight time, and then ground transportation in NYC.

The best way to save on Amtrak is to book early – sometimes very early. Some of the cheapest train tickets sell out months in advance, while others may be available but require at least a 21 day advance purchase. Be sure to check Amtrak’s deals page for available discounts, including some great savings for families.

If you’d told me two years ago that bus would be one of my favorite ways to travel, I would have laughed in your face. But in the last few years, there’s been a global proliferation of nice buses that go to desirable places – not just sketchy Greyhound stations adjacent to halfway houses or Chinatown buses with rickety seats. Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get to New York City.

We rolled up to NYC on TripperBus , which has regularly been rated as the best bus from Washington DC to NYC. Technically, their pickups aren’t in DC – they offer one in Arlington and another in Bethesda, both easily accessible by Metro or Uber. For $27 each way, you get a comfortable seat, free WiFi, movies, a power outlet and more.

Our travel time each way was just a shade over 4 hours, and with NYC drop-off at Penn Station we didn’t have to allocate any time or money for ground transportation! The driver was friendly and professional, even starting the ride by helping us with our luggage, bringing around water for everyone, and giving our kids a huge basket of candy. We were impressed that the bus even offers lap-shoulder seat belts to keep passengers safe (though bus travel is already statistically much safer than car travel).

If you have a little more room in your budget, Tripper offers their new Elite service for $50 each way. It’s the equivalent of an airplane’s first-class seat, but without having to strip down and unpack your entire bag at security. As you can see from our photos, this definitely felt like luxury travel! I’d pick Tripper any day over flying between Washington DC and New York.

Traveling from elsewhere on the east coast? Check out BusBud to find the cheapest bus options from each company.

Cruises to New York

Have some time to spare and want a unique way to get to New York? Check out transatlantic repositioning cruises from Europe to New York! A quick search on CruiseDirect shows options from both Germany and Denmark for as little as $121 per night – including two nights to explore Reykjavik without paying the exorbitant lodging costs there. A cruise may not be the cheapest way to get to New York, but may be a solid value if you want to combine your visit with a completely different travel experience.

Once you’ve gotten to New York City, it’s likely that your biggest budget item will be accommodation. What are the best places to stay in New York on a budget? There are so many choices! Hopefully one of the options below will meet your needs.

The best things in life are free

What the cheapest place to stay in NYC? The free one.

When a friend found out we were interested in visiting New York, he reached out and offered us his guest room in Queens. We couldn’t pass that up! Everything in New York City is expensive, so if you can save money by staying with a friend, by all means do it!

What if you don’t have a generous friend living in NYC who’ll put you up for a few days? Then make one through HomeExchange ! We spent our first three nights at a spacious HomeExchange apartment right near Central Park on the Upper West Side while the owners were out of town for a family reunion. You can read all about how HomeExchange works , but the best and most important thing to know about the program is that you and your host do not have to match for dates and locations. The non-reciprocal option gives you the opportunity to trade points for a stay at someone’s home when they won’t be using it – no matter where they’ll be. Your only out-of-pocket expense is $15 per night to cover insurance and customer service. Read about it here or sign up now .

Best budget hotels in NYC

Cheap accommodation in New York City is tough to come by, full stop. We polled our Tiny Globetrotters Facebook group for their favorite choices and got some great options. Pssssst… make sure you go read our 5 simple tips for saving money on booking.com before you reserve!

Pod Brooklyn is a great option if you don’t need tons of space – rooms start at round $70 for the dates I searched! Those prices are for a room suitable for two people. If you’re traveling to New York on a budget with a family, you might consider getting two bargain-priced rooms and splitting everyone up. Pod Brooklyn came recommended by our group member thanks to its efficient use of space and convenient location just one stop from Manhattan. Check prices for your dates.

Looking for a hotel in NYC with a pool? You’ll find it at Aloft in Brooklyn ! It’s sparkly and new, has a great location in downtown Brooklyn (“DoBro”) and is convenient to the subway, putting you just a few stops from Manhattan. Rates can go as low as $170 per night, but it’s popular so you’ll want to book as soon as you know your dates to get the best price locked in .

Another Tiny Globetrotters member suggested Hyatt Place in Long Island City, Queens . LIC is one of the most convenient places to stay outside of Manhattan! The whole neighborhood has been built up over the last few years and we’ve heard great things about it from our local friends. The Hyatt Place looks beautiful and has some rooms for two around $100 for some dates and even spacious rooms for four come in around $150. They even offer reasonably priced breakfast rates that work out to just a few extra dollars extra – more than the cost of a bowl of cereal, but without the hassle of doing it on your own. Check prices here.

Another Long Island City hotel recommendation is The Local Hostel NYC , where you can snag a private room for two with its own bathroom for under $100. Unfortunately they don’t have family rooms, but for a smaller party it looks like a great option. We’ve really enjoyed our experiences staying in hostels – even with the kids – because it’s a chance to interact with other travelers from around the world. Check prices here.

If you have a little extra budget and want to stay in Manhattan, check out NobleDEN . One of our group members recommended it for its convenience to the good (often affordable) eats in Chinatown and Little Italy, and a quick check on prices shows that it can be very reasonable if you go off-peak. Definitely worth checking prices for your specific dates, especially if you’ve worked your way to Booking.com genius status ( get more info about that here ). Check prices here.

Are you traveling to NYC with lots of kids? TRYP Times Square South is an awesome option for you! They have family rooms (king + bunk bed) and premium family rooms (2 queens + bunk bed) and the prices aren’t crazy – around $250 per night for dates I checked. That may not sound “budget” but for large families who would need two rooms in another hotel it would be a great pick! Check prices here.

One chain that we’d never heard of before is Affinia, which specializes in suites and larger rooms. Their Gardens Suites Hotel on the Upper East Side (64th and 3rd) offers great access to Central Park, the Met and more but gives you a perfect, comfortable home base to return to – including a full kitchen to save money on meals out! If you’re a family with young children who need a fixed bedtime, their suites are the perfect solution because you can close off the bedroom and still enjoy the living room and kitchen.

If you don’t need a separate bedroom, you can save money by booking a room at Fifty Hotel & Suites in the same chain – lots of their rooms have a kitchenette (including a small range, fridge and microwave) and the Junior Suite is extremely spacious.

Similarly, Affinia’s Shelburne offers a kitchenette in their studios and suites and a great location near Lexington and 37th. Check for Secret Deals that bring the price down to what you’d expect in Manhattan, Kansas rather than Manhattan, New York.

Another option with a full kitchen that comes recommended is The Marmara Manhattan . They’re extremely spacious, with suites going up to 800 square feet – unheard of in Manhattan! Prices depend on the number of guests, but some dates are as little as $150 for two people and $215 for four people. If you aren’t interested in eating all your meals out, The Marmara could wind up being a big money savings in that department and may benefit your sanity for a longer stay with the extra room to spread out. Check prices for your dates.

Don’t miss these 5 simple tips for saving more on booking.com

Not picky about exactly where you’ll stay? Make sure to check Hotwire’s Hot Rates ! We’ve gotten luxury hotels in great locations for a fraction of the price (including in NYC). In New York City it’s worth being selective about which neighborhood you’ll book in and how many stars the hotel should have, but you won’t go wrong with a 4-star in Midtown or another central area.

If you’re committed to keeping up your fitness regimen even on vacation, be sure to check out these hotels near Penn Station NY since they’re right near Peloton Studios NY!

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in New York

The cheapest way to get around NYC is, of course, to walk. It’s the ultimate walking city! But distances can be much longer than they seem and you’ll want to save some time and energy for sightseeing. What are the best ways to get around NYC without spending tons of money?

NYC subway tips & tricks

For most people visiting New York, the subway is a great way to get around. Don’t be intimidated! Once you figure out which lines are most convenient for your accommodation and where the big transfer points are, you’ll be good as gold. We use the Google Maps app for navigating the NYC subway and it works just fine.

Here are a few tips you need to know about NYC MetroCards:

-You can buy a fare card from the kiosk in any subway stations.

-A MetroCard costs $1, so refill it rather than getting a new one each time.

-Each subway (or local bus) ride costs $3 if you purchase a single-ride ticket or $2.75 if you pay by loading money on a MetroCard.

-When you refill your card, you’ll get a 5% bonus each time.

-A 7-day unlimited-ride MetroCard is just $32, equivalent to about 12 rides.

During our week in NYC we found that we averaged three subway rides per day (but sometimes took up to 5). If you’re staying for a weekend the pay-per-ride MetroCard is probably your best choice, but once you get to a visit of 4 days or longer you’ll save money with a 7-day unlimited MetroCard. That also saves you the time and hassle of constantly refilling your card (which you’ll always need to do when you’re just about to make a train that you can hear pulling into the station).

If it’s your first time visiting New York City, you may be stunned by the amount of walking not only up on the sidewalks but also down in the subway stations. Be prepared. Some transfers we made required a full ten minutes of walking from one train to the other. Sadly 80% of subways don’t have elevators for those with mobility impairments or strollers.

Still and all, if you’re able to take the subway you’ll find it to be an efficient and affordable way to get to nearly every corner of New York City.

The local buses are also part of the MTA and can be paid with your MetroCard. So why don’t I have them listed here in their own section? Buses have an important role for some routes and sometimes you just have to take them. But we avoid them at all costs for two reasons. First, traffic above ground can really crawl and buses are just as susceptible to it as regular cars. Second, some bus routes (probably the ones you’d want to take) are really important and popular for locals… and that means full . I’ve never managed to get on an NYC bus because the ones I wanted were always so overloaded that they drove right on by.

Ride share services

There are two popular ride share services in New York City these days, Uber and Via. Why would you take a ride share rather than the subway? The term “penny wise, pound foolish” comes to mind. Rides on Via can be as cheap as $10 and Uber is just a little bit more.

If you’re a crew of four and you’re traveling at an off-peak time, Via can be cheaper and faster than the subway! Especially if you’re trying to get back to your hotel in NYC after a Broadway show or late-night outing, some subway service is limited. Unlike Uber, Via will direct you to a nearby designated pick up spot on a corner but never more than a few minutes’ walk. Get $10 off your first Via ride  or a $5 discount off your first Uber ride .

If you plan on riding in a car with your kids, make sure you bring an age-appropriate car seat to keep them safe. Taxis and Ubers aren’t immune from car accidents! You’ll find all the info you need here: – How to travel with car seats – The best convertible car seats for travel – Ride Safer Delight travel vest review – Bubblebum review

Thankfully, your New York travel budget might get a little relief in the dining department! They may not be the healthiest options, but there are plenty of cheap eats in NYC and you can find the everywhere.

Pizza by the slice

It seems like every block in New York City has a place to grab pizza by the slice. Many of these don’t offer any seating, but in nice weather you can walk over to any of the city’s lovely parks to enjoy your meal. Prices usually range from $2 to $4 for a plain cheese pizza slice.

You shouldn’t visit New York without have at least one good bagel. They may have been invented in Poland, but New York made them famous. Plus you can get a top-quality one with cream cheese for just a few dollars.

Of course, one of the great debates of all-time is where to find the best bagel in New York City. That’s certainly up for debate, and in part it depends on just how far you’re willing to go. Here are a few excellent spots we’ve vetted and can recommend:

Ess-a-Bagel – A solid choice, and everyone’s heard of it. Convenient location for most tourists.

Absolute Bagels – Extremely popular with locals in Morningside Heights (on the far Upper West Side), we’re talking lines out the door in freezing rain on a Sunday morning.

BO’s Bagels – Locates just into Harlem, Bo’s Bagels serves the best bagels we’ve ever had . And as the child of two Jews from New York, I’ve eaten lots of bagels. Bo’s everything bagels were so good that we each got one to start and then went back for another. It even has a palatial amount of seating for a NY bagel shop and solid coffee.

Chelsea Market

Want a deviation from your typical cheap New York street food like pizza and hot dogs? Get fancy at Chelsea Market (perfect after a walk on the Highline). It’s basically heaven for foodies on a budget! This food hall offers all types of cuisine at a range of prices on the main level plus specialty food shops downstairs (produce, Italian, meat, and more).

For a real budget meal, check out Los Tacos No. 1 . As Californians we felt right at home with their California/Baja menu, and each taco comes in under $4! Choose which type of meat you prefer and what toppings you want to make it your own.

Ok, so now the crux of why you’re coming to New York City… to see all the things! But how can you do that without going broke? You’ll have to be strategic, but there are some great ways to save money.

Look for free things to do in NYC (and a few cheap ones too)

Some of the best things in life (and New York City) are free. One of the best things to do in NYC is just walk around to take in the sites and the sounds. A stroll through Central Park and down through midtown costs you nothing but is probably the best way to feel the city. Check out these other great free and cheap things to do in New York City .

The American Museum of Natural History officially has an suggested admission price of $23 per adult and $13 per child, but they offer a “pay what you want” program if you buy your admission ticket at the desk. The Met offers a similar program for adults who can prove they live in New York, New Jersey or Connecticut, and kids under 12 are always free.

Save money on top attractions

But how can you save money on the expensive top attractions in New York City? One option is to pick up the New York City Explorer Pass . The concept is simple: choose how many discounted attractions you want to visit within a one month period and then buy a pass to match. Choosing more places to visit gives you a better value – and you’ll often seasonal promotions on the website.

Of course you’ll reap the most reward from your New York City Explorer Pass by using it for expensive activities. Our overall New York City Explorer Pass is favorable: it’s extremely easy to use and can save money on New York City travel! If you plan to be in town for more than three or four days, we recommend grabbing the 5 attraction pass for $129 per adult (but often discounted from that price) as that works out to about $26 per activity. If you’re visiting with kids, you may choose to buy passes with fewer activities for them since they get in for free or at a substantial discount at some attractions.

You’ll definitely want to use your Explorer Pass to visit either the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock to get those classic New York skyline views. For families, Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum, usually $33 per adult, is a great spot to use the Explorer Pass. In summer you can jump on a Central Park bike tour or the iconic Circle Line sightseeing cruise. One of the more unique offerings that we enjoyed was Spyscape, which puts visitors through spy training challenges to determine your optimal role in the clandestine services.

Another great option if you’re just spending a weekend in New York City is to build your own pass to snag a discount on a few key attractions. Check out the full details here . We’ve used this program in other cities and it’s great! Even if you just got tickets to the Empire State Building and the Met, you’d be saving $6 per adult. If you pay for admission to any two attractions, you’ll get a 10% discount; three attractions earn you a 15% discount and four or more will get you 20% off the whole thing.

If you’re visiting in January (and even into early February), check out NYC Must-See Week – you’ll get 2-for-1 admission on nearly all of the top NYC attractions like the Empire State Building, the Guggenheim, the Intrepid and more.

How to get discount Broadway tickets

Of course one of the best things to do in New York City is hit up a Broadway show. I still remember the first one I went to and that was over thirty years ago! What’s the best way to get discounted Broadway tickets? Fortunately you have a few options.

First, many people know that you can visit the TKTS booths in person the day you want to go to a show to see what’s available. There are actually three booths around the city, so check here to see which one offers tickets to the shows you want to see. These tickets are “up to 50% off” but some of that is a bit of marketing fluff thanks to the dynamic pricing models that theaters use now (just like airlines). It’s definitely worth comparing with the theater’s website, or even with in-person pricing if you’re near the theater.

Another popular option if you aren’t committed to seeing a show is to enter the lottery for Broadway tickets. Each show runs its own lottery, and the prize is the right to buy tickets at a substantial discount. Some lotteries are for same day tickets, and others are for the day before. We lucked out and scored two tickets to The Lion King for just $60 each on our way into town! But for the rest of our week in town we tried to get lottery tickets to either of the other Disney shows and failed (and that was with two of us entering each time for mid-week shows in the dead of winter). The odds do vary a lot by show. Check out all the Broadway lottery options.

If you’re planning ahead to be in New York City in January or February, check out Broadway Week sponsored by the tourism office. In 2019, lots of shows were offering a limited number of cheap Broadway tickets – 2-for-1 pricing for the nosebleed seats, with the option to pay $20 more per ticket for better seats. But get these seats early, as we tried to buy them just a few days before and we were out of luck. Click to see the full Broadway Week offerings.

What if you can’t score discount Broadway tickets but still want some entertainment during your stay? Certainly one great option is to go to one of the many excellent off-Broadway shows ! The main difference is that off-Broadway theaters are smaller, but there are still some big-name shows available like Avenue Q.

If off-Broadway is out of your budget as well (and I don’t blame you), do what every good tourist does: hop over to Times Square and park yourself with a million cups of coffee at Ellen’s Stardust Diner. Ellen’s is simultaneously an institution, a tourist trap, and a hell of a lot of fun. For us it was the ideal solution to giving our youngest traveler (age 4) a taste of the Broadway magic. There is some serious talent in that room and the performances are nearly continuous. The kids’ menu is overpriced, but our kids easily shared from the adult menu (we adults did to). For a total bill that came in under $50 (plus a few rounds of tips for “Phillip” the tip bucket), we got a decent lunch and two hours of performances – for four people. It’s hard to beat that kind of value in New York City!

Pro tip: You’ll get the best experience sitting in the center section, even if you have to ask the hostess repeatedly to put you there. If you see an open table in the center, insist on it. Try to go when it’s not a traditional meal time (or in the dead of winter) to avoid long lines.

-Start planning early!

-If you can stomach the cold weather, visit in January or February (check out NYC in winter packing list for your essentials)

-If you’re visiting with kids, check out these top family-friendly attractions in NYC (including a few you probably haven’t heard of!)

-Check Skyscanner for flights or use your Chase Ink Business Preferred to book award tickets if you’re coming from far, check bus prices if you’re on the east coast

-Buy travel insurance as soon as you make your first booking

-Get your booking.com reservation at a discount

-Try to take advantage of Broadway Week and Must-See Week if visiting in winter; otherwise, enter the Broadway ticket lotteries and look into the New York Explorer Pass

-Plan to carb-load on bagels and pizza!

Big thanks to our partners at HomeExchange, Smart Destinations and TripperBus; all opinions are my own.

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2 thoughts on “planning a trip to new york on a budget”.

These are great options! I love that bus – all my dc friends actually live in Arlington so that would be such a great way to travel to get together. Some things in NYC can be so $$$ but you can really do a budget if you plan, plus there are great free things to do like walk around central park, window shop 5th ave, visit rockefeller center, highline, and most museums do have times when admission is free!

Thanks so much for your suggestions! I plan on looking into some of these places while I’m living in NYC for a few months. The free activities will really help since I’m not working right now.

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​An Insider’s Guide to NYC on a Budget

Tips on how to explore the best of the city for less.

Is  New York City  outrageously expensive? Yes. Is it amazingly affordable? That, too. It just depends on which New York you choose. The pricey version features Michelin three-star restaurants (good luck getting a reservation), taxis “whisking” you around in 5 mph traffic and a suite at a plush hotel in personality-free midtown. Or so I’ve heard.

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The affordable New York I know and love is all about free museum nights, neighborhood explorations and great pizza slices. You can fill your days with no- or low-cost activities, including some obvious ones — walking the beloved elevated rail turned urban park known as the High Line, taking in the glorious views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry and, of course, wandering through Central Park.

If you don’t mind a chill in the air, one of the least expensive times to visit is in January and February, when the city holds NYC Restaurant Week, which is actually four weeks (usually from mid-January to mid-February), and more than 400 top spots offer prix fixe meals for $29, $39 or $59 on weekdays — not exactly bargain prices, but if you’re a foodie it may be worth it to try, say, the Parisian-style Bar Boulud by renowned chef Daniel Boulud at a steep discount. It also runs in July and August.

More tips for planning an affordable trip:

Let’s start with your biggest challenge: where to stay. You can use a short-term-rental site such as Airbnb to easily find a place in Manhattan for under $100 a night, if you’re willing to stay under the same roof as the owners. If that’s not your style, you could pay more to rent an entire apartment, or consider a hotel room in Long Island City, Queens, a short subway ride from Manhattan. It won’t be a luxe experience, but if you avoid high season and reserve in advance, you can get a room at, say, the Red Lion Inn & Suites on Crescent Street for a little over $100 a night. It’s a block from the 7 train and just a few stops from Grand Central. If you’d prefer to stay in Manhattan, consider the “blind” offers on Hotwire. You choose the star level and neighborhood; the site chooses the hotel. I’ve found hotel rooms available in good areas of Manhattan for about $125 to $150 a night with tax.

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Getting around

This is the easiest part of planning a budget trip to New York. Take the subway all day, every day (it’s open 24 hours and goes everywhere). Just purchase a $33 seven-day pass. Most major stations have elevators, and the elevators are usually functioning, but you can check at  mta.info/accessibility . There are also buses, which — unlike the subway — don’t require you to navigate long, crowded stairways and can always accommodate wheelchairs.

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Things to do

Now you just need to decide where to go. If you haven’t been to New York since before the pandemic, your top choice should be the overhauled  Museum of Modern Art  ($25 for adults; $18 for those 65 and older), which has expanded by 47,000 square feet and shuffled its displays to juxtapose iconic works with recent pieces by a diverse group of artists.

If you’ve never been to NYC, you’ll want to slap down $87 for a CityPass  C3 ticket,   which gets you into three top attractions. (You get to choose from 11.) It’s a toss-up between the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock Observation Deck. The  9/11 Memorial and Museum  is another obvious choice.

I also strongly recommend that you take the ferry from Battery Park, perhaps skipping the first stop (the Statue of Liberty — you’ll get a great view from the boat), and spend your time at the marvelous Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration (with round-trip ferry, $24 for adults; $18 for those 62 and older). You’ll leave feeling more patriotic than when you went in.

The heart of the city, though, is in its neighborhoods and public spaces. You could kill a day just in Central Park, especially if you get picnic supplies at Zabar’s (2245 Broadway), the smoked-salmon emporium, or bring takeout from the reasonably priced eateries at Turnstyle Underground Market, connected to the Columbus Circle subway stop at the park’s southwest corner. For true charm, stroll the West Village, filled with gorgeous town houses and delicious restaurants, many with sidewalk seating.

And remember that many TV shows film in New York City with live audiences, including  The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon  and  The View , and tickets to tapings are free. Though the experience is never quite what you expect — it’s a bit of a rigmarole to get tickets, there’s a lot of waiting involved, and you might find your view blocked by a camera — I think it’s totally worth it. Plus, many shows make sure their audiences have a great time with preshow entertainment — after all, they can’t have you be grumpy when it’s showtime. Go to the city’s official tourism site for a  guide  listing which shows are taping and how to get tickets (some live tapings were paused when the pandemic hit). 

Other budget fun

View great art.  If you’re planning a weekend visit, consider heading down to 14th Street and the  Rubin Museum of Art , which offers free admission from 6 to 10 on Friday nights. The Rubin is devoted to art of the Himalayas, India and Tibet, so you’ll likely not recognize the artists there. But it’s a fascinating chance to explore those cultures. (The Rubin normally costs $19 for most adults and $14 for those 65 and older. Reserve free — or buy, if you aren’t visiting on a Friday evening — timed tickets online.)

See beautiful architecture.  You probably don’t want to miss the Metropolitan Museum of Art ($25 for adults; $17 for those 65 and older), but also consider visiting two iconic New York City spots for free: the New York Public Library flagship building and stunning Grand Central.

Try bowling (yes, bowling).  At Bowlero in Times Square (yes, Times Square) on Sunday nights, shoes rent for $8 and games are $7. 

Tour a neighborhood with a local.  Request a history tour of the Lower East Side — or your neighborhood of choice — through  Big Apple Greeter , offering free tours with no tipping allowed. They are often led by longtime residents who just love to show off their city. There is a small catch, which is that you need to put in a request a month or so in advance. You name the dates you’re available (they suggest it be your first or second full day in the city) and the neighborhoods you’re interested in seeing. It’s a great chance to get out of midtown and downtown, or a great chance to see midtown and downtown in a different way — through the eyes of a New Yorker.

Browse the Strand.  Buy a used book for a few bucks or just enjoy wandering around the Strand (828 Broadway), a huge independent bookstore and New York institution boasting “18 miles of books,” plus fun souvenirs.

More on travel

Save-or-Splurge Vacation Ideas

​Where to travel next — for golf, beaches or city fun — for different budgets​

A Road Trip Through New York's Hudson Valley

​An Insider’s Guide to Los Angeles on a Budget​

​Tips on how to explore the best of the city for less​

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New York City Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

It’s famous for….well, just about everything, New York City is the beating heart of the world — which is why I call it home. Every culture, language, and food is represented here.

Unsurprisingly, there is a never-ending list of things to do here. No amount of time you spend in NYC will be enough so don’t worry about running out of things to do. You could spend a lifetime exploring the city and never really see it all. And, whatever your interest, no matter how obscure, you can find it in NYC.

As a budget traveler, visiting NYC can be tough, especially when you don’t know the hidden tricks that make living here affordable. There are plenty of things to do that won’t cost you an arm and a leg — if you know where to look!

This travel guide to NYC can help you make the most of your visit, get off the beaten path, and not break the bank.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on New York City

Top 5 Things to See and Do in New York City

1. Meander through Central Park

It’s free, there are lots of little paths to walk, and, since it spans over 40 blocks, it’s easy to spend hours upon hours wandering around or having a picnic. During the summer months, there are often free concerts and theater productions here too. From the spring to the fall, there are free guided walks on Saturdays as well. Personally, I’m a big fan of laying out in Sheep’s Meadow on a hot, sunny day with a book, some food, and a bottle of wine. If you want to take a guided tour around the park to learn more about the statues and sculptures, ponds, parks, and famous filming sites, take a guided tour with Get Your Guide ($25 USD). It will really give you a good understanding of the park.

2. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

On September 11th, 2001, almost 3,000 people were killed in a series of terrorist attacks in NYC and elsewhere. Visit this somber memorial and take in the view from the Freedom Tower. On the elevator up, you can see pictures of the historical development of the city and how it’s changed over the years. To get a deeper understanding of 9/11 and the events that unfolded, visit the museum. It’s home to moving exhibits that illuminate the scope and significance of the tragedy. The memorial is free to visit; museum entry is $33 USD (free entry Mondays from 3:30pm-5pm but tickets must be booked online). Get tickets beforehand so you can skip the line and save time!

3. Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is one of the foremost collections of fine art in the world. If you only see one museum in New York, make it this one. It has a wide array of art, artifacts, photographs, and other exhibits from around the world. There’s a whole collection of armor and another dedicated to costumes. You’ll see pieces from the ancient world as well as contemporary art. I like its expansive Impressionist and Greek exhibits, but there are more than 490,000 works of art on display. It’s chaotic and filled with people, especially on the weekend, but since it is so big, you can usually find some quiet spots away from the crowds. Budget at least a half-day here as a few hours won’t do this place justice. Admission is $30 USD and you can buy tickets in advance.

4. See the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty is a massive Neoclassical statue gifted to the USA from France. It was dedicated in 1886 and stands 305-feet tall (95 meters). It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi though its metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame). It’s spectacular to see up close and is as big as you imagine, but the real highlight of this combo is Ellis Island. Here, you can learn about the immigrant experience and get a sense of the people who helped build NYC (you’ll even find my family’s name inscribed on the wall). There’s such a great sense of history there that you can’t help but be impressed. Admission is $25 USD.

Here’s an overview of what the tours are like .

5. Walk the High Line

Other things to see and do in new york city, 1. take a walking tour.

A great way to orient yourself to the city is with a walking tour. You’ll learn some history, see the main sights, and explore all the city’s nooks and crannies. I think free walking tours are a wonderful activity in any city (I always take them when I arrive somewhere new). If you’re on a budget, I recommend Free Tours by Foot. For paid tours, go with Take Walks . They have specific tours in the city that focus on art, food, and history, and they are pretty affordable too. (I wrote a whole blog post about New York City walking tours that you can check out here. )

2. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

That two-hour-long line to see the Statue of Liberty not appealing? Walk a few blocks to the Staten Island ferry. This free ferry takes you across the harbor and offers a nice view of both the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline. You won’t get to stop at Ellis Island but you’ll get a nice (and free) view while you enjoy the historical route that New Yorkers have been taking for centuries. The ride takes about 20 minutes each way.

3. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to get a picturesque view of the New York skyline and harbor. It’s a long walk, but good food and drinks await you on the other side. Stopping to take in the view and meandering along the way makes the walk about 40 minutes. I enjoy doing this walk at night when downtown Manhattan is all lit up. Otherwise, come early to beat the crowds. It’s a super popular spot for taking photos so be sure to bring a camera (or you can hire a NYC photographer if you really want to snag some impressive pics).

If you want a more nuanced experience, take a guided tour across the bridge . Not only will you learn some fascinating history but your guide can show you all the best spots to take photos.

4. Museum hop

New York City has dozens upon dozens of museums worth visiting. You have The Met, Natural History Museum, the MoMA, Frick, Guggenheim, the Museum for African Art, Museum of the City of New York, Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum (a branch of the Smithsonian Institution), The Whitney, The Brooklyn Museum, and so many more! Pick the ones you want to see the most and visit those unless you have weeks in New York to see them all. Admission varies, but expect to spend around $28 USD per person per museum.

5. Visit Radio City Music Hall

Is there a more American theater than Radio City Music Hall? This timeless testament to entertainment has captivated visitors since the 1930s (at the time, it was the largest auditorium in the world). It’s the home of the precision dance company The Rockettes, who have been performing here since 1932. It’s also been the venue for all kinds of award shows, including the Tonys and the Grammys. There are still concerts, comedy shows, and other entertainment happening all the time. Check their website to find out what’s happening during your visit. There’s also an hour-long tour you can take that will get you behind the scenes to see the Great Stage and The Roxy Suite. Tickets start at $42.

6. Take in the theater

You can’t come to NYC and not see a Broadway show. There are tons of amazing shows here from grand musicals to traditional Shakespeare to offbeat shows. There’s nothing better than witnessing NYC theater, and it’s such an integral part of life here you should check it out. Current highlights include Hamilton, Chicago, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, Six, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, The Lion King, and more. Most shows have performances roughly eight times per week. If there’s a specific one you’ve been wanting to see, you should be able to find a time while you’re in the city. Visit the TKTS booth in Times Square to get half-price tickets. To see what shows are playing during your visit, check out broadway.com.

7. Wander Times Square

No matter when you go to Times Square, it will be packed with people (usually other tourists). There are pedestrian areas where you can sit and hang out and tons of (overpriced) restaurants and stores. It’s still a fabulous place to people-watch for a few minutes from the top of the red steps of the TKTS kiosk. Try to come at night when it’s all lit up with all the signs and neon lights. That’s when it looks the best!

8. Experience the Prohibition Bars

I love the 1920s. One of the reasons I love NYC so much is because there are tons of other people here who love the Jazz Age. There are lots of Prohibition-style bars serving classic drinks and hosting live jazz and swing music. While the fancy cocktails they serve may not be cheap ($15–20 USD), I’m hooked on the atmosphere. Stepping into these bars with the music playing, people dancing, and everyone dressed the part transports me to an era when things were classy, carefree, and fun. Some of my favorites are The Back Room, Apotheke, The Dead Rabbit, and Bathtub Gin.

9. Visit the Lower East Side Tenement Museum

This museum highlights how immigrants from around the world lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s as they tried to make it in America. It’s a good follow-up to what you see on Ellis Island. You can only visit this museum via guided tours, and they need to be booked in advance. The museum is actually an apartment building that’s been used to recreate the living conditions during different periods of the city’s history. Each tour tells the story of a different family and what their life was like here during their time. The tour will take you through apartments that have been recreated to match the time period of the story. You can choose from tours that highlight women or specific immigrant groups. I like that live actors are used to portray and share the stories of newly arrived immigrants as it makes the experience much more memorable. Tours last 60-75 minutes. Admission is $30 USD.

10. Visit Trinity Church

Built in 1698, the original Trinity Church was a small parish church constructed by the Church of England. When the British seized New York after George Washington’s retreat, it was used as a British base of operations. After the war, George Washington and Alexander Hamilton regularly worshipped here. The graveyard dates back to the 1700s and holds many a famous Americans, including Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth, Francis Lewis (signatory on the Declaration of Independence), John Alsop (Continental Congress delegate), Albert Gallatin (founder of NYU), and Horatio Gates (Continental Army general).

11. Head to Top of the Rock

This area is always filled with hustle and bustle. Wander around Rockefeller Center to see where they film The Today Show , shop, snack, and then take the elevator to the “Top of the Rock” for a bird’s-eye view of the city (I personally think the view is better than the Empire State Building since you get the Empire State Building in your pictures). Tickets cost $40 USD.

12. Just wander

Walk from the east side to the west side and marvel at the beautiful New York City architecture such as Grand Central Station, Union Square, the New York Times building, the Chrysler Building, the Flat Iron building, and more. There are so many historic buildings in New York City to see! You can talk a walk past the United Nations Headquarters on the East side of Manhattan. Madison Square Garden and Chelsea Market are great spots for wandering on the other side of the island. In lower Manhattan, you can grab a slice of pizza in Little Italy or take in the bustle of Chinatown. Just wandering around the city and seeing what there is to see is a fun afternoon activity for every budget traveler.

13. Relax in Battery Park

Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, this park is where the Dutch built Fort Amsterdam in 1625 to defend their settlement. The British took the area over in 1664 and eventually renamed it Fort George. While the fort was mostly destroyed during the Revolution, the battery was expanded after the war’s end. Today, there are over 20 monuments and plaques in the park, covering everything from the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 to immigration and much more. You can wander around the fort and then stroll through the surrounding park and take in the beautiful waterfront views of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.

14. Visit Wall Street

Take a photo with the famous charging bull statue (which was created in 1989) and then walk to Wall Street and see where all those bankers destroyed the economy. There’s heavy security in the area, but you can sit and watch people whiz in and out of buildings on their way to cause some other financial disaster. Guided tours around Wall St with Get Your Guide cost $35 USD and cover the highs and lows of the (in)famous finance hub, highlighting the lives of famous elites from John D. Rockefeller to Warren Buffet. I found the tour really interesting!

14. See Federal Hall

One of the most overlooked museums in the city sits across the street from the NY Stock Exchange (NYSE). Federal Hall, built in 1700, is where George Washington took his oath of office. You’ll see the Bible that was used when he was sworn in as president, which was loaned to him from the local Masonic Lodge. It was the site of the US Customs House in the late 1700s and the first capitol building of the US. Though the original facade was rebuilt, it’s one of my favorite attractions in the area. I especially love the old vaults. I highly recommend you visit. Admission is free.

16. See Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is the city’s historic train station. It was going to be torn down in 1975 but was saved by Jacqueline Kennedy, who raised money for its preservation. I love coming to the main concourse and looking up at the “stars” in the ceiling as everyone races to and fro. There’s also an amazing eatery in the basement called the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant. And for fancy (and expensive) cocktails, visit The Campbell and step back into the 1920s (dress code enforced). It was once the office of John W. Campbell, a member of the New York Central Railroad’s board of directors and finance tycoon from the 1920s.

17. Visit The Cloisters

Few people make it up to the Cloisters (it’s up near 204th Street), a branch of the Met devoted to medieval Europe. It took me years to finally see it, and I kicked myself for waiting so long. It was built with Rockefeller money from parts of five European abbeys between 1934 and 1939. (They even stipulated that the land across the river would forever remain undeveloped so the view would be unspoiled!). The building and its stunning cloistered garden are very, very peaceful, and beautiful. It’s one of the best things to do in the city. There are free tours each day that explain the history of the museum and the paintings and exhibits. Admission is $30 USD (which includes same-day entrance to the Metropolitan Museum of Art).

18. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Head over to the MoMA for lots of beautiful (and weird) modern art and some vivid impressionist art. Personally, I dislike modern art. I just don’t “get” it. How is a shovel on a wall art? While I’m not a fan, this museum does have Van Gogh’s Starry Night as well as other post-impressionist art, so I can’t hate it completely. If you love modern and contemporary art, this (I’m told) is one of the best in the world. The galleries display works from the 1880s through the modern day. The museum regularly has events that are interactive for kids, teens, and adults. They also show films as part of their art exhibitions. Check their website to see what’s on while you’re visiting. Admission is $28 USD. The MoMA’s Sculpture Garden is free of charge to the public daily from 9:30am–10:15am.

19. Hang out in Prospect Park

Get out of Manhattan and explore Brooklyn’s version of Central Park, which spans almost 600 acres. While you’re here, don’t miss the nearby Brooklyn Museum. Spend the afternoon discovering its vast collection of both historical and contemporary art and artifacts (there are over 1.5 million items in its collection). It has art exhibitions highlighting ancient Egypt, Medieval Europe, colonial USA, and more. Tickets are $20 USD.

20. Visit the Bronx Zoo

Head north for a look at one of the oldest and biggest zoos in the United States. Opened in 1899, the zoo spans almost 300 acres and sees over 2 million visitors each year. Home to over 650 different species, it’s a great place to visit with kids. Gorillas, birds of prey, bison — there is a huge assortment of animals here and you’ll definitely learn a lot during your visit! Admission is $37.95 USD. Tickets are $17.95 USD on Wednesdays.

21. See a Yankees/Mets/Rangers/Knicks game

Like sports? NYC has some world-class sports teams. I’m not a big sports fan (the Yankees play soccer, right?), but games are fun when you have friends to share the experience with. If you have a chance and the desire, don’t miss a sporting event, because New Yorkers are serious about their local teams!

22. Attend a taping

TV shows like Saturday Night Live , The View , The Late Show with Stephen Colbert , The Daily Show , Last Week Tonight , Late Night with Seth Meyers , and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon offer free tickets to their tapings (although they must be reserved well in advance). See each show’s website for details and to make reservations.

22. Talk a walk through Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood in Brooklyn was the first rural cemetery in the US and is now a National Historical Landmark. You’ll see graves of famous Americans like the Roosevelt family, Laura Keene (she was one of the actresses on stage when Lincoln was assassinated), and many others. There’s a free map at every entrance so you can easily find where you want to go in the 478-acre grounds. This was also the site of the Battle of Long Island during the Revolutionary War. The grounds are open year-round and free to visit.

23. Visit the Louis Armstrong House

Jazz legend Louis Armstrong and his wife lived in this house on 107th Street in Queens which has been turned into a museum, which opened to the public in 2003. The main exhibition features Louis’s life, career, and impact within the musical and local communities. Other exhibits show the collection of music, photographs, recordings, and other personal items from Louis and his wife, Lucille. You’ll even see a trumpet that Louis gave to King George V of England. There are guided tours available for $20 or you can walk through the exhibit on your own for $10.

( Hey there! Wait one second! Did you know I also wrote an entire guidebook to New York City filled with – not only even more detailed information on the things included on this page but also itineraries, practical information (i.e. hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, prices, etc.), cultural insights, and so much more? It has everything you want in a guidebook – but with a focus on budget and cultural travel! If you want to go into more depth and have something to take on your trip, click here for more about the book! )

New York City Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at $120 USD per night during the winter and about $160 USD a night the rest of the year. Expect basic amenities like TV, AC, and coffee/tea makers. If you want cheaper accommodation, it’s much better to stay in Hoboken/Jersey City or Brooklyn, where there’s more budget options. In Manhattan, accommodation is going to be the most expensive, especially if you come during the summer, where most hotels are around $200 USD or more per night.

Airbnb is technically banned in NYC for anything under 30 days, unless the host lives there. Private rooms start at $80 USD per night but average closer to $130-150 USD, especially if you want to stay in Manhattan. For entire places, you can still find some listed online but Airbnb is constantly trying to remove those in order to comply with the law. I’d try to avoid them.

Food – New York has every kind of cuisine you can think of — and at every price range too. This is the land of cheap eats and $1000 dinners! Post-COVID, prices have risen a lot and, while can get pricey here, there’s still a few cheap ways to save.

Pizza slices can be found for as little as a dollar, though typically they cost around $3 USD for a slice of cheese and about $5 USD for one with a topping. A bagel with cream cheese or a hot dog is usually around $3-5 USD. The famous “BEC” (bacon, egg, and cheese) sandwich will cost about $10 USD. There are plenty of street vendors with meals between $5-10 USD.

Sandwich shops, kebab places, salad shops, and cafes are generally going to be between $15-20 for a meal.

You can eat a sit down restaurant for $15-25 USD per main course. Appetizers can range from $8-15 USD. Dinner for two with drinks usually averages around $100 USD. This is any random place in NYC that’s not too fancy. Think the random Mexican, Thai, or Italian place you walk across. For sushi, you’re looking at about $40-50 USD for a meal (though you can get lunch specials for around $15 USD) and about $100 USD for an omakase.

If you like fast food (I don’t), you can usually find value meals for $10-15 USD.

Prices just go straight up from there as NYC has some really fancy and expensive restaurants. I mean, you can pay upwards of $350 USD for a prix-fixe dinner! main courses at many high-end restaurants can sometimes be $50 USD each! If you were to go to a really fancy place, you’d probably spend at least $200 for two people, especially if you got drinks.

A latte/cappuccino is $5 USD while bottled water is $2 USD. For drinks, you’ll find beer for around $8 USD, wine between $12-15 USD, and cocktails for between $15-20 USD. (For tips on how to get cheaper drinks, see the money saving section below.)

If you cook your own food, expect to pay between $65-80 USD per week for groceries that includes basic staples like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat. Shop at Fairway for inexpensive groceries. If you don’t have a kitchen, Whole Foods and Wegman’s have really good prepared meals and hot / salad bars.

Backpacking New York City Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking New York City, expect to spend around $100 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, public transportation, cooking your own meals, and free attractions. If you plan on drinking, add $40 USD more per day.

A mid-range budget of about $300 USD covers staying in a cheap hotel, eating cheap, enjoying a couple drinks, taking the occasional taxi, and doing more paid activities. You could probably lower this cost a bit (see the next section) but, given the price of accommodation, it’s the most realistic daily budget.

On a “luxury” budget of $600 USD or more per day, you can stay in a fancy hotel and do whatever you want! The sky is the limit after that!

New York City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

New York City can easily drain your wallet. It is expensive and your money really, really quickly if you aren’t careful. Prices for everything have dramatically increased post-COVID. Luckily, this is the city of starving artists so there are always deals and ways to save. Here are some ways to save money in New York City:

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to the city. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! This post on NYC walking tours can give you my favorite companies .
• Get a MetroCard – You’ll be taking the subway a lot and fares can add up. Get one of the Unlimited MetroCards and save yourself a bundle during your trip. 7-day unlimited cards are $34 USD.
• Get cheap theater tickets – Broadway tickets can easily run hundreds of dollars, especially for new and popular shows. The TKTS stand in Times Square offers 40-50% off select shows. You need to arrive at the counter the same day to see what they have but it’s usually a wide selection. Be prepared to wait in line for about an hour. TKTS also has offices at the South Street Seaport and in Brooklyn.
• Visit the museums for free – NYC is full of some of the best museums in the world. In addition to the MoMA, many offer free entry on certain days of the week: the Whitney Museum of American Art is pay-what-you-wish on Thursday afternoons, the Solomon R. Guggenheim has pay-what-you-wish between 4-6pm on Saturdays, the Cooper-Hewitt National Museum of Design has a pay-what-you-wish policy on Saturday nights.
• Visit the tourism website – New York City’s tourism website has a great list of free activities, museums, and shows. Visiting their website can help you figure out what is free in the city. While NYC is expensive, there’s always free things going on. The tourism board’s website is a great place to find those things.
• Eat on the cheap – Between the food carts, dollar slice shops, kebab places, and cheap eateries (Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai are some of the cheapest places in the city) you can eat really cheap in NYC. Some of my favorite places to eat cheap are The Dead Rabbit (oyster happy hours), Percy’s Pizza, Noodle Q (Chinese food with big portions), and Gray’s Papaya (cheap hotdogs).
• Get the lunch special – Most restaurant in NYC have lunch specials and those are usually the best time to eat out. You can usually find set lunches for around $15-20 USD. Personally, I tend to eat at lunch and cook my dinners because it’s so much cheaper.
• Hit the happy hours – Happy hour is the best time to get discounted food and drinks in the city. We NYers love happy hour because it’s one of the best ways for us to save money while still going out. Drinks will be about 50% of what you normally find. I love the happy hour at The Gray Mare. For current best happy hours, try Eater. They have a good list!
• Consider getting the New York Pass – This sightseeing pass allows you free entry to over 115 attractions. If you plan on seeing a ton of attractions, this can save you money. A one-day pass is $134 USD per person while the two-day pass is $179 USD.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in NYC because hotel prices are really high, especially since Airbnb has been banned. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car, and adjust your budget accordingly.
• Hit the oyster happy hours – Love oysters? Eat them during the happy hours that happen all over the city where they cost around $2 USD.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in NYC and, with few hostels, there aren’t many options for a budget traveler. Use a hospitality website like Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. There is a huge network in the city with tons and tons of hosts. To increase the chance of success, request as far in advance as possible!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in New York City

Accommodation is very expensive in New York, and there aren’t a ton of hostels in the city. Here are some places to stay in NYC:

• HI New York City Hostel
• Heritage Hotel NYC
• The Local NYC
• Pod Brooklyn
• Chelsea International Hostel
• The Marlton

For more hostel suggestions, check out my complete list of the best hostels in New York City.

How to Get Around New York City

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the subway, the fare is $2.90 USD, but an express ride is $7 USD (you can’t use a regular Unlimited Ride MetroCard for express rides).

The Staten Island Ferry is a staple of morning commuters. It operates 24/7 and is free. The NYC Ferry Service is also a reliable way to commute and connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx along the East River. The ferries make many stops along the East River and are the same price as the subway.

Taxis – Taxis are definitely not the cheapest option for getting around New York City. The minimum fare starts at $3.00 USD and goes up another $3.50 USD per mile. Skip them if you can. However, during peak times, they are cheaper than Uber since they have set fares.

Ridesharing – Uber, Lyft, and Via are way cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. The shared/pool option (where you share a ride with other people) offers even better savings.

Bike rental – You can bike just about anywhere in New York City, especially if you want to explore big parks like Central and Prospect. Citi Bike is a bike-sharing system, starting from $4.79 USD per 30-minute ride, or $19 USD for 24 hours. There are about 10,000 bikes all over the city, so one is always within reach!

When to Go to New York City

Anytime is the best time to visit New York! Each season offers visitors plenty of reasons to visit. Early fall offers crisp breezes, bright sun, and comfortable temperatures while late fall and winter make merry with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and holiday decorations.

Deep winter – January and February – is cold, with temperatures ranging between 18-23°F (-7 to -5°C). But coming in winter means better hotel rates, ice skating, and hopping around cozy cafes and bookstores.

Spring is glorious and New Yorkers celebrate the thaw by taking to the streets, shopping at outdoor markets, frolicking in Central Park, and dining outside. Summer is hot, with average daily temperatures around 77-86°F (25-30°C).

Personally, I think the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) offer the best experience: there are fewer crowds and the weather is more bearable, averaging around 56-63°F (13-17°C) in the spring and 53-78°F (11-25°C) in September and October. Walking around snapping photos is a great way to see the city, but doing so when it’s sweltering can be challenging. If you love the heat, however, then summer is the time to visit!

How to Stay Safe in New York City

New York City is a safe place to visit. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas. And there’s not a lot of gun violence. Petty crime, like theft, around popular tourist landmarks and on the subway will be your biggest concern. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

During COVID, crime went up for a bit but crime going down now. There are very rarely instances of violence or crime in any place you’d want to go as a visitor. In Manhattan, most of Brooklyn, and Queens, the city is really safe and you’re unlikely to encounter any major crime. In all my years living in the city, I don’t know anyone that has had something violent happen to them.

That said, there has been a rise in homelessness and vagrants, especially on the subway so you’ll just want to follow the locals and stay vigilant. Most people I know don’t ride the subway after midnight just because there’s not enough people on it.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply. For specific safety tips, consult one of the many solo female travel articles on the web.

Beware of anything that seems too good to be true in Times Square — it probably is. Try not to buy any tickets, massages, facials, or experiences from hawkers in the area. They prey on tourists here. If you do, you risk getting your credit card charged multiple times, getting less than you paid for, or getting ripped off altogether. Also, if you want to take a photo with the life-sized costumed characters in Times Square, they will demand money from you.

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

New York City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to New York City!

While I have a lot of free tips on New York City, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorites restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of New York City that I got from living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go.

New York City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

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Planning a Trip to New York City: A Complete Guide to the Cost

by Trip.com

March 3, 2023

Statue of Liberty / Source: Trip.com

Flights to New York

Here are some average flight prices to New York City from major cities around the world below:

• Los Angeles: $250-$350 USD
• London: $400-$600 USD
• Tokyo: $800-$1,000 USD
• Sydney: $1,000-$1,500 USD
• Dubai: $700-$900 USD
• Toronto: $200-$300 USD

How to save money on flight bookings?

Here are some tips for saving money on flight bookings via Trip.com, listed in point form:

• Use the Trip.com app: The Trip.com app often offers exclusive discounts and deals on flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.
• Sign up for Trip.com membership: Members of Trip.com can enjoy special discounts and rewards, as well as access to exclusive promotions and deals.
• Be flexible with travel dates: Flights on certain days of the week or at certain times of day may be less expensive than others. Use Trip.com's flexible search options to find the best deals.
• Book in advance: Booking flights well in advance can often save you money, as prices tend to rise closer to the travel date.
• Consider layovers: Flights with layovers may be less expensive than non-stop flights. Use Trip.com's search options to compare prices and travel times.
• Compare prices: Use Trip.com's price comparison tool to compare prices from different airlines and find the best deal.
• Use promo codes and coupons: Trip.com often offers promo codes and coupons that can be applied to flight bookings for additional savings.

Accommodations

Conrad New York Downtown / Source: Trip.com

Here's a table listing different types of accommodations in New York City with their features, average prices, and what they provide:

** Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on location, season, and other factors. **

Best Hotels in New York

Conrad new york downtown, times square edition new york, royalton park avenue, intercontinental new york times square, an ihg hotel, new york marriott marquis, business travel, hyatt grand central new york, even hotel brooklyn, an ihg hotel, fairfield inn & suites by marriott new york manhattan/central park, millennium premier new york times square, sheraton tribeca new york hotel, family friendly, the rockaway hotel, hilton garden inn nyc financial center/manhattan downtown, doubletree by hilton new york downtown, the new yorker a wyndham hotel.

1. The Plaza New York - A Fairmont Managed Hotel

• Address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
• Average price: $800 per night

The Plaza New York - A Fairmont Managed Hotel

The Plaza New York- A Fairmont Managed Hotel

Airport pickup service

Pets allowed

Check Availability

2. The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

• Address: 400 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
• Average price: $600 per night

The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

3. The Greenwich Hotel

• Address: 377 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013

The Greenwich Hotel

Swimming pool

4. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

• Address: 50 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
• Average price: $700 per night

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

5. The Peninsula New York

• Address: 700 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

The Peninsula New York

** Reminders: These prices are subject to change and can vary depending on factors such as season and availability. Be sure to check with the hotel directly for the most up-to-date pricing and availability. **

How to Save Money on Hotel bookings?

Trip.com Rewards Loyalty Program / Source: Trip.com

Transportation

New York Subway / Source: Andre Benz @ unsplash

Here is a table of average transportation prices in New York City:

Here is a table of estimated transportation fees for different trip lengths in New York City:

** Reminder: Please note that these are estimated prices and can vary depending on your transportation choices and activities. **

Sightseeing & Ticket

If you're planning a trip to New York City, it's essential to consider the cost of sightseeing and tickets. With so many iconic attractions to visit, it's easy to get carried away and overspend. However, with a little bit of planning and research, you can save money and make the most of your trip to New York without breaking the bank.

Time Square / Source: Trip.com

Here is a table of estimated Sightseeing & Ticket fees for different trip lengths in New York City:

New York Must-go Attractions

Dumbo / Source: Trip.com

1. Statue of Liberty

• Address: Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004, USA
• Admission ticket price: $18.50-$25 (depending on age and type of ticket)
• Opening hour: 9:00am to 5:00pm (last ferry departs from Liberty Island at 5:00pm)

2. Empire State Building

• Address: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118, USA
• Admission ticket price: $38-$58 (depending on age and type of ticket)
• Opening hour: 8:00am to 2:00am

Empire State Building / Source: Trip.com

3. Metropolitan Museum of Art

• Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA
• Admission ticket price: $25 (suggested admission for adults)
• Opening hour: 10:00am to 5:00pm (Mon - Thurs & Sun) | 10:00am to 9:00pm (Fri - Sat)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art / Source: Trip.com

4. Central Park

• Address: 14 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022, USA
• Admission ticket price: Free
• Opening hour: 6:00am to 1:00am

Central Park / Source: Trip.com

5. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

• Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007, United States
• Admission ticket price: General admission: $28 for adults (ages 18-64), $22 for seniors (ages 65+), $20 for youth (ages 7-17), free for children under 7
• Opening hour: 9:00am to 8:00pm (last entry at 6:00pm) | Closed on September 11th and May 1st

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum / Source: Trip.com

Here are some average costs for food and dining in New York City:

Popular Restaurant in New York

1. Katz's Delicatessen

• A legendary Jewish deli on the Lower East Side known for its overstuffed sandwiches and pickles.

2. The Halal Guys

• A food cart turned chain restaurant that serves up delicious Middle Eastern street food, particularly their famous chicken and rice platter.

3. Joe's Pizza

• An iconic Greenwich Village pizzeria that has been serving up thin-crust slices for over 40 years.

4. Le Bernardin

• A three-Michelin-starred seafood restaurant in Midtown that has been consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the world.

5. Peter Luger Steak House

• A Brooklyn instituti on that has been serving up some of the city's best steaks since 1887.

Shopping and Souvenir

Here is a table with some average prices for souvenirs and shopping in New York City:

Here are some iconic brands that are closely associated with New York City:

• Tiffany & Co.
• Macy's
• Bloomingdale's
• Saks Fifth Avenue
• Bergdorf Goodman
• Barneys New York
• FAO Schwarz
• The NBA Store
• The NHL Store
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art Store
• Dylan's Candy Bar
• Shake Shack
• Katz's Delicatessen
• Baked by Melissa

Wifi and Communications

• Wi-Fi - Many hotels, coffee shops, and public spaces in New York City offer free Wi-Fi. However, if you need to purchase Wi-Fi access, prices can range from $5-$15 per day.
• SIM cards - If you're traveling from abroad, purchasing a SIM card can be a good option for staying connected. Prices can vary depending on the carrier and plan, but typically start at around $30 for a basic plan with limited data.
• International roaming - If you plan to use your existing phone plan while traveling to New York City, be sure to check with your carrier for international roaming rates. These can be quite expensive, with data charges sometimes reaching $10 or more per MB.
• Mobile hotspots - If you need to connect multiple devices to Wi-Fi while on the go, renting a mobile hotspot can be a good option. Prices vary depending on the provider, but typically start at around $10-$15 per day.

Here are some key factors to consider when calculating the cost of travel insurance for a trip to New York City:

• Trip length - The longer your trip, the higher the cost of insurance will likely be.
• Age - Travel insurance premiums are typically higher for older travelers.
• Coverage level - Basic travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. However, more comprehensive coverage options are available, which can include coverage for lost or stolen luggage, trip interruption, and more.
• Activities - If you plan to engage in high-risk activities like extreme sports or adventure travel, you may need to purchase additional coverage.
• Pre-existing conditions - If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you may need to purchase a policy with additional coverage to ensure you are adequately protected.

New York Travel Tips

New York Public Library / Source: Trip.com

• Use public transportation - New York City has an extensive public transportation system, including subways and buses, that can get you anywhere you need to go. It's a cost-effective and efficient way to get around the city.
• Wear comfortable shoes - New York City is a walking city, so comfortable shoes are a must. You'll likely be walking more than you expect, so make sure your feet are prepared.
• Carry cash - While credit cards are widely accepted in New York City, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or in case of emergencies.
• Be aware of your surroundings - New York City is generally a safe place to visit, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpockets or other scams.
• Check the weather - New York City experiences all four seasons, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you pack. In the summer, it can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
• Plan ahead for popular attractions - New York City is home to many popular attractions like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. To avoid long lines and crowds, consider purchasing tickets in advance or visiting during off-peak hours.
• Be respectful - New York City is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. Be respectful of others and their cultures, and try to learn and experience as much as you can while visiting.

Best Time to Travel New York

Here is the information on the best time to travel to New York City:

How to Save Money at Trip.com?

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Planning a trip to New York City can be exciting, but it's important to be aware of the associated costs. From accommodation and transportation to dining and activities, the trip to New York cost can add up quickly. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it's possible to enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer without breaking the bank.

By using our comprehensive guide to the cost of a trip to New York City, you can feel confident in creating a budget that suits your needs and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable trip while keeping the trip to New York cost in check.

What is the best time to visit New York City?

The best time to visit New York City is during the fall (September to November) or spring (April to June) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.

What is the average cost of living in New York City?

The cost of living in New York City is higher than the national average, but it varies depending on the neighborhood and lifestyle.

How much does it cost to visit the Statue of Liberty?

The cost of visiting the Statue of Liberty varies depending on the type of tour and access level. A general admission ticket to Liberty Island and Ellis Island costs $18.50 for adults and $14 for children (ages 4-12).

Can I save money on dining in New York City?

Yes, there are many ways to save money on dining in New York City. Consider eating at food trucks or street vendors, cooking meals at your accommodation, or checking out happy hour specials.

Is it possible to visit New York City on a budget?

Yes, it is possible to visit New York City on a budget. By choosing budget-friendly accommodation, using public transportation, and seeking out free or low-cost activities, you can have an enjoyable experience without breaking the bank.

Cost of a Trip to New York

• 1. Flights to New York
• 2. Accommodations
• 3. Transportation
• 4. Sightseeing & Ticket
• 6. Shopping and Souvenir
• 7. Wifi and Communications
• 8. Insurance
• 9. New York Travel Tips
• 10. How to Save Money at Trip.com?
• 11. Conclusion

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New York on a Budget: 25 Ways to Save on Travel

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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The Big Apple has a reputation as a pricey vacation destination, and that’s not entirely undeserved. The average rate at New York City hotels is a whopping $254 a night, according to a recent Statista report—America’s most expensive average nightly rate. With prices like that, visiting New York on a budget may seem impossible.

But pricey hotels aside, New York City is actually a surprisingly attractive destination for budget travelers, especially if you’re willing to do a little advance planning. Read on to learn how to save money in New York City, including tips for dining on the cheap, getting discount tickets to Broadway shows, saving on public transportation, and finding the city’s best free attractions and events.

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Planning a Trip to New York on a Budget

1. Get out the map. Group the sights that you want to see by neighborhood, so that you visit one area of the city each day (for example, visit the Statue of Liberty and Wall Street one day, and Central Park and Times Square another day). This will make the most of your time and save you money on the subway, and on Uber and taxi rides.

2. Expand your reach. Spend at least part of your trip exploring residential neighborhoods like NoHo, Tribeca, and Greenwich Village rather than sticking to the tourist traps. You’ll get to see the real New York without paying out the wazoo.

How to Save Money on New York City Attractions

3. Purchase a tourist pass. If you know you’ll be packing in a lot of popular attractions into your stay, you may be able to save with a city pass. The New York Pass gives you entry into dozens of attractions over a set number of days for one fixed price. Another option is CityPass , which includes admission to either three or six museums and sights, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Empire State Building , over nine days. Passes such as these not only save you money, but also let you skip the lines.

4. Look for reduced admission. Check the websites of museums you plan to visit to find out whether they offer any free or reduced-price admission days. For example, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is free every Friday between 4:00 and 8:00 p.m. Some museums also offer coupons or discounts on their websites, so make sure to check before going.

5. Take advantage of freebies. Some attractions are free all the time—including Central Park , where there are almost always street performers and musicians roaming around, and the High Line , a public park recently created from an old elevated rail line. The Downtown Boathouse offers free public kayaking programs.

6. Stock up on coupons. For discounts on food, shopping, spas, and attraction admissions, search discount sites like  Groupon  and LivingSocial . Those who know they’ll be traveling to New York City can stock up on some good deals prior to visiting.

7. Take the ferry. Skip the touristy (and pricey) harbor cruises and take the Staten Island Ferry instead for fantastic views of New York Harbor—it’s free!

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How to Save on NYC Shows and Entertainment

8. Find low-cost events. Travelers visiting New York on a budget should take advantage of the many free or inexpensive concerts, readings, art exhibits, and other events happening all over the city on any given day. The only challenge is finding them. For a start, try the “Free in NYC” page of New York’s official tourist board.

9. Save on Broadway tickets. The popular TKTS booths are great places to check for discounted Broadway tickets, but they’re not your only option. There are often even better deals to be had on discount ticket websites like BroadwayBox.com .

10. Go to the source. Theaters will often sell leftover tickets (for as little as $25) a couple of hours before shows at their respective box offices—but sometimes it’s standing room only, or seats may not be together if you’ve got a group. Some theaters may give discounts to seniors or students with ID; it never hurts to ask.

11. Get a subscription. Theater lovers who visit New York regularly or are planning a lengthy trip should consider an Audience Extras membership. For a yearly fee, you get access to last-minute tickets for local shows and concerts that have empty seats to fill. Tickets are free, other than a small ticket service charge. The membership pays for itself after just a few shows.

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How to Save on New York Transportation

12. Buy a subway pass. If you’re planning a longer trip to the city, it’s often cost-efficient to buy subway passes that give you unlimited rides for a week or longer (depending, obviously, on how long you’ll be in town). This is especially true if you don’t know where you’re going because if you make a mistake and have to redirect, it may involve swiping your card several times more than you anticipated.

13. Consider driving. If you’re coming into the city with a group of people, it might actually be cheaper to take a car (though also more annoying). Say you pay $40 for parking, $15 for tolls and $10 for gas—it might be less than $30 x 4 for train tickets into the city. But be sure to weigh that against the convenience of taking the train.

14. Plan your parking. If you do decide to drive into the city, print out coupons or a parking pass ahead of time that will allow you to park all day for a flat rate, rather than paying horrendous hourly fees. One good option is Icon Parking , which is well known throughout the city and has several locations. On its website, you can enter the dates and times of your arrival and departure—give yourself a buffer of a couple of hours each way, in case you arrive early or get tied up and leave late—and choose your parking garage location using the map. It’ll then give you a printable confirmation that guarantees your flat rate for that time frame. You can either pay in advance online or get a coupon to bring to the site.

15. Use your feet. Manhattan is very walkable and you’ll see a lot more on foot than you would by public transport or taxi. Plus, it’s free.

16. Hop on a bike. Biking is a fun and inexpensive way to get around the city—just be sure to wear a helmet and stick to bike lanes for safety. There are some wonderful cycle routes around Manhattan, especially along the Hudson and East Rivers. New York has a bike-share program called Citi Bike ; for a very small fee, you can borrow a bike for anywhere from 30 minutes to three days.

[viator_tour destination=”687″ type=”3-mod” tours=”5557P12,5557BIKE,5557P19″]

How to Save on Meals in New York City

17. Follow the young folks. If upscale lounges and fancy restaurants aren’t your thing, skip the touristy Times Square area and eat where the students eat. Neighborhoods with colleges and universities—such as the East Village near New York University—often have unique local eats at fantastic prices.

18. Hit the streets. In a city renowned for its street food, you’re missing out if you eat all your meals in restaurants. From familiar hot dog carts to trucks bearing every kind of ethnic fare you can imagine, you can eat your way around the globe without ever leaving the Big Apple—or paying more than a few bucks at a time. A thorough site called  New York Street Food  highlights some of the best options.

19. Explore ethnic neighborhoods. Areas like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Little India are a great bet for authentic meals at affordable prices. One of my favorite dining experiences is to get up early on a Sunday and head to Chinatown for dim sum. Locals far outnumber tourists in the busy restaurants there, which offer small tapas-style plates for just a few dollars each.

20. Don’t worry, be happy.  To save money at the bar, go out early and take advantage of happy hour prices and less crowded venues.

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Where to Stay in New York on a Budget

21. Stay outside Manhattan. Thanks to New York’s comprehensive public transportation system, there’s no need to pay through the nose for a Midtown hotel when you can stay in one of the other boroughs—or in New Jersey—and take the train wherever you want to go. Even after factoring in the cost of extra transportation, the savings can be significant.

22. Consider alternatives. There are plenty of other options besides hotels, including apartment rentals, home exchanges , couch surfing , and hostels, many of which offer private rooms in addition to shared dorms. For more ideas, see Ditch the Hotel: 10 Cheaper Ways to Stay . (Note that rentals through Airbnb and other vacation rental sites are not always legal in New York City; to protect yourself, read Airbnb and Beyond: Tips for Safe, Legal Vacation Rentals .)

23. Share a bathroom. If you’re willing to sacrifice a little comfort for a better location, consider staying in a hotel or an inn with a shared bath—it’s often one of the best ways to find a truly budget rate in the most popular Manhattan neighborhoods.

Shopping in New York on a Budget

24. Hit the flea markets. Spend your Saturday or Sunday shopping (and haggling) at one of the city’s flea markets, where you’ll always find something unique. Consider GreenFlea in Manhattan or Brooklyn Flea in Brooklyn.

25. Shop in the right spot. If you’re looking for great deals on purses or jewelry, skip the street corner vendors and head to Canal Street , where you’ll find bargain basement prices.

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More from SmarterTravel:

• 11 Cheap Hotels in New York City
• 9 Famous Hotels in New York City
• Top 11 Places to Visit in New York City
• 9 Great Day Trips from New York City
• 11 Deliciously Cheap Eats in New York City
• 11 Best Foods to Try in New York City
• 10 Famous New York Restaurants Every Foodie Should Visit
• What to Wear in New York City
• What to Pack for New York City

Carrie Gonzalez, Ashley Kosciolek, Shayne Rodriguez Thompson, Dan Askin, Carolyn Spencer Brown, John Deiner, and Erica Silverstein contributed to this story.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo on a Budget in New York City: 50+ Tips to Make NYC Affordable

March 1, 2024 by Janice Waugh

Is it possible to travel solo to New York City on a budget?

Yes. But, it will take some planning.

While New York City can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable things to do and see. There are always free events going on, off-broadway theater, and, of course, the energy of this amazing city. I've been many times and I never get tired of New York or stop finding new places to eat, visit, and explore.

Compared to most people, I do New York on a shoestring. So, I have advice for you.

The companion post to this is Best Places to Stay in New York City for Solo Travelers .

Table of Contents

A Fabulous Solo Trip to New York on a Budget

It's true that New York City is expensive.

It's also true that you can have a great time visiting the city without spending a fortune.

The key, I think, is to take your time and dig in a little deeper than the average tourist. Travel a little more slowly. Take public transit. Go to events that locals attend. Eat at smaller restaurants rather than those of celebrity chefs. The bottom line is, don't focus on the high ticket tourist activities that eat up your time and your budget. And, if there are things like going to the top of the Empire State Building that you think are a must, list them all and see what is truly important to you. Then cut the rest off your list and take advantage of some of the tips below.

So that the Big Apple doesn't take a big bite out of your wallet, here's my take on the best of budget New York City for solo travelers.

Getting Around New York City on the Cheap

Balancing safety with your budget is important when you travel solo. The New York transit system works well and is generally very safe. Yellow cabs are more expensive but safe. Uber and Lyft are a slightly more expensive option to cabs and have their safety system built in through the rating process. I don't recommend ever getting into an unmarked cab, though I have often been offered one in New York.

Here are options for getting into, out of, and around the city.

• From the airport to the city: take your pick. This article gives you information on traveling from all NYC airports via public transit . In some cases the GO Airlink Shuttle is a better deal in terms of time and money.
• Get a MetroCard.  The bus and subway system in New York City is a really efficient way to get around. The MetroCard costs $1 and you can load money onto it and swipe as you go, or you can tap your contactless debit or credit card or smartphone digital wallet. Most fares are $2.90. You can check out all the options here .
• Take the people's ferry . The Staten Island Ferry is free and offers such a great view of the city. It runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with more frequent service during rush hour on weekdays (when it is packed, so you might want to avoid commuting hours to enjoy a more leisurely experience). You can get free Wi-Fi on the ferry and in the ferry terminals. Here's a post that gives you great information on a Staten Island tour . Pro tip from a local: Christine says, “Make sure you are on the starboard side, and preferably on the deck outside when you leave from the Battery.”
• Take a bus tour. A Hop On, Hop Off tour is great if you're short on time or want to get an overview of the city before you dig into its specifics. If I only have a couple of days in a city I generally take one.
• Explore New York City by bike. Like most large cities, New York has a bike sharing service. City Bike has stations around the city where you can rent a bike for $4.79 per trip to a 30 minute maximum or $19 for unlimited 30-minute rides for 24 hours. There are hundreds of stations where you can rent a bike and a map to confirm availability at a station near you. Here's a link to some of the best cycling routes in NYC.
• Walk and soak up the city.  Budget New York City definitely includes walking, which is great because there are so many wonderful areas to explore. As you walk, listen to the city as well. It's quite unique.

Our Solo Travel Society readers give walking a big thumbs-up for those who are solo on a budget in New York City:

• Sandra – I had a great day exploring Harlem for next to nothing. It's easy to get to on the Metro and great if you want to explore Black history & music plus some wonderful architecture.
• Tracy – Staying in the city can be expensive but being there doesn’t need to be. There are tons of free things to do if you can walk. Walking around the park, the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is fun, and the Highline is fabulous. Cut through Chelsea Market while walking it and pick up a picnic lunch which will be cheaper than a restaurant meal.
• Ian – The 9/11 memorial is a nice walk, then onto Battery Park. Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is nice to walk around, after walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. There's a nice food hall next to the merry-go-round. Also, if you are in Dumbo, walk along the promenade on the other side of the bridge. They have turned the old piers into floating parks and there are also sports venues with waffleball, roller hockey, basketball, etc.

Where to Eat Cheap in New York City and Feel Comfortable Solo

• Go to Arturo's for a slice and some jazz . A New York City institution in the West Village, Arturo's has been serving up coal oven pizza and nightly jazz since 1957. They also offer a wide choice of Italian food and gluten-free options. I had the arugula salad with shaved parmesan and a 13″ pizza that I could only eat a third of. The service is great. Eating at the bar, which is a social option when you're traveling solo on a budget in New York City, is fun here.
• Enjoy Beatnic vegan restaurant . By Chloe has been renamed to Beatnic. There are four New York City locations . Healthy and yummy! They also take good care of gluten-free patrons. A casual atmosphere makes Beatnic great for solo travelers.
• Check out a little bar called  George Keeley . Located at Amsterdam and 83rd it offers local beers and exceptionally good “everything bagel fries”. Grace went here after her run. See Grace’s Nerdy New York City Adventure .
• Eat at a food truck. Food trucks can be a big part of a budget New York City experience but where do you find them? Food trucks are always on the move. Here's a site that will tell you where and when the most popular food trucks are in NYC .
• Get your free pizza . The Alligator Lounge offers free pizza with the purchase of a drink every day of the week along with karaoke, trivia, comedy, or whatever's going the night you're there.
• Consult a local guide . Check out TimeOut New York's cheap eats guide for their latest recommendations. Also, Eater NY has a list of 40 dining options for under $20 across the city.

Top Things To Do in New York City Traveling Alone

• Big Apple Greeter . Whatever your interests, with luck, you'll get a volunteer tour guide who shares them and will show you their beloved New York.
• New York By Foot . Pay-what-you-wish, with no set fee. Think about how much a 2-hour tour would cost you otherwise and tip generously if you enjoyed yourself.
• Tour Grand Central Station . These range from free or pay-what-you can walking tours, to GPS guided tours for $2.99, to guided tours of variable prices.
• High Line Tour: From Freight to Flowers . Hear the story behind New York City’s park in the sky. Free tours are led by High Line Docents, knowledgeable volunteer guides who offer you an insider’s perspective on the park’s history, design, and landscape.
• Brooklyn Literary Audio Walking Tour . Created by the Brooklyn Public Library, this audio tour guides you from neighborhood to neighborhood, telling you about the literary sites along the way: fictional places where novels have been set, real apartments where the authors once lived, and the libraries they visited.
• Flatiron NoMad Walking Tour . Learn the fascinating details and scandalous tidbits of the past that make this area integral to New York and U.S. history. It includes some of the city’s most notable landmarks, including the New York Life Building, the MetLife Clock Tower, the Appellate Courthouse, and the famous Flatiron Building.
• Get the New York City Discount Pass . There are three options: the New York CityPASS ticket, which includes admission to 5 Big Apple attractions; the New York C3 ticket, a three-admission pass designed for shorter-stay visitors; and the New York C-All pass, which offers one-time admission to 10 attractions over 9 days. Have a look and see if the New York CityPASS will save you money on what you want to do in New York.
• Visit museums . Watch for free times for visiting the many museums in the city. Here is a list of free museum entrance days . Note: The Museum of Modern Art is free for New York State residents only.
• Go to Cathedral of Saint John the Divine. Located on the upper west side,  Saint John the Divine  is a massive cathedral and a major attraction in the city. Bonus: down the block is the diner featured in the Seinfeld series.
• Go shopping and get a deal . Here's a guide to shopping deals in New York City. You can also check out the NYC Sample Sales Calendar on The Stylish City website.
• TodayTix . This is an app for getting discount theater tickets in New York City, London, Toronto and other major cities. The last time I was in New York, I tested it on tickets to see a show. The seat I got sells for $109 online. On TodayTix I chose the lottery option. If I had won, I would have got my ticket for $25. I received an email that said I didn't win but I could buy a ticket for $30, which I did! Before buying, I looked at reviews of the service to make sure they were legitimate and I turned on my VPN as I was going to use my credit card on public Wi-Fi (for more on this, read Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations ). I picked up my ticket from a TodayTix customer service person outside the theater.
• Upright Citizens Brigade Theater. This is a great deal though their theaters have closed. They are planning to continue in a pared-down format. I'm leaving it on the list in hopes that it becomes possible to attend their performances again.   Founded by Amy Poehler and others, UCBT also offers classes. You can join their mailing list to find out when performances resume.
• Buy discount Broadway tickets . Shows on Broadway are expensive, but, if you're willing to stand in line, you can buy tickets for 20%-50% off on the day of the show. There are a couple of places you can do this but go to the  TKTS Discount Booths (their flagship location is in Times Square) and you'll be supporting the non-profit Theatre Development Fund.
• Off-Broadway productions . Off-Broadway is cheaper than on, so check out The New York Theatre Guide to Off-Broadway shows.
• Go to a Poetry Slam in Brooklyn . The iconic BRIC Arts Media Center hosts exhibitions, concerts, performances, and screenings year-round. Many events are free.
• Get your Shakespeare on. Normally, from late May to mid-August you can enjoy Shakespeare under the stars in Central Park. In 2024, things are going to run a little differently, while the open-air Delacorte Theater is under construction. The Public Theater will be taking the show on the road, offering free programming in a variety of locations around the city. Get all the details here .
• Danielle –  “For free and/or cheap stuff to do, check out  the skint . It's the absolute best. “
• Karla  uses  playbill.com  to get discounted tickets in advance.
• Kim – “If you want to see a Broadway show, look into the Theatr app for last minute cheaper tickets.” (This app connects people who have tickets they're not using with people who want to buy or exchange for face value or less.)
• Christopher recommends going to small indie theaters instead of Broadway shows. “Go see bands at dive bars in Alphabet City instead of concerts at Madison Square Gardens.”
• Denise recommends 1ota for information on getting tickets to a taping of your favorite television show while you're in the city.

Live Like a Local in New York City

• Go to Chess Forum . Chess lovers must go to Chess Forum . If you want to learn chess you must go. If you want to see a Greenwich Village institution, go. Chess Forum is “located at the original site of Grandmaster Nicolas Rossolimo's Chess Studio. Bobby Fischer was a frequent visitor to the studio and so were art and film greats Marcel Duchamp and Stanley Kubrick.”
• Go to local art galleries . On the recommendation of Imid from Chess Forum, I went to the Pomegranate Gallery where I had the great fortune of meeting Oded Halahmy, the artist and gallery owner. “Oded Halahmy was born in Iraq, moved with his family to Israel in the 1950s, was educated at St. Martin's School of Art in London, taught sculpture, and is in the collection of the Guggenheim Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum, and the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, as well as many other public and private collections worldwide.”
• Join a local running group . The  North Brooklyn Runners  is just one of the groups you can join for a run and a coffee afterwards. Here's a list of running groups in NYC.
• A calendar of free events.  You can see what's free at  DoNYC.com and Free NYC events on eventbrite . There are plenty of entertainment options to be found when you're traveling solo on a budget in New York City.
• Check out Meetup.com . Hiking, architecture, technology, wine: there are groups for people interested in every subject imaginable. Find a Meetup in New York City and go to meet locals who have similar interests as you.
• Go to an Open Mic . In a city with as much talent as New York you know that the Open Mic scene has to be a good one. And where there's an Open Mic there are always friends (locals) out to support the artists. Here's a list of Open Mic events in the city.
• Go kayaking on the Hudson. What a city! The Downtown Boat House promotes public access to the waterfront for all and offers free kayaking from May to October. Don't know how to kayak? Take one of their free classes.
• The drama of chess. Go to the southwest corner of Washington Square and watch the drama as people try to beat the regulars. You can also test your own skills at $5 a game.
• Take a beer tour and tasting.   Brooklyn Brewery hosts tours and tastings  are offered Monday to Friday. Check for details.
• Bookstores worth browsing.   Spoonbill Books ,  Berl's Brooklyn Poetry Shop ,  Housing Works Bookstore Cafe . Here is a list of 15 of the Best Bookstores in NYC .
• Visit the local chapter of your favorite organization . Are you a member of a service group or association? If so, plan to go to a local chapter meeting and see the city through a local's eyes – and maybe find yourself a volunteer tour guide! Read Take Your Membership Benefits on the Road: 11 Ways to Save for more ideas to save through organizations you already belong to.

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Vacations in New York

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• There are loads of types of vacations in New York and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $538; Family vacation $473; Romantic vacation $595; Luxury vacation $650; Budget vacation $309.

Why should you book a vacation package to New York City?

When should you book a vacation package to new york city.

The best time to visit New York City is in the fall, when the weather is cooler and there are several big American traditions which see floats and parades taking to the streets. Some of the most popular events include Thanksgiving Day Parade in June, ice skating at Rockefeller Plaza, and the infamous New Years Eve Countdown in Times Square.

Where should you stay in New York City during your vacation?

For any vacation type in new york city:.

The Knickerbocker Hotel is a NYC landmark in the heart of Times Square with bespoke furniture, sweeping midtown views, and an electric rooftop bar. Take the Jamaica Train and connect via NYC Subway for the most authentic transport between JFK Airport and the Knickerbocker Hotel.

Conrad New York is an unpretentious 5-star hotel near Battery Park which offers daily connections to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. A taxi ride to this east side NYC hotel will cost you approximately 60 dollars and take up to 30 minutes.

For family vacations in New York City:

Novotel New York Times Square is a great central choice to match your the high-paced energy of your kids. Consider pre-booking your airport shuttle through the hotel's reception for a smooth transition from JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

Adjacent to Central Park, the Quin Hotel commissions local graffiti artists to decorate the interior of the building for a truly one-of-a-kind experience in the Big Apple. Take a combination of the Jamaica Train and NYC Subway to show the kids a more authentic angle on New Yorkers.

For romantic vacations in New York City:

Gramercy Park Hotel shoulders one of the most secluded parks in all New York City and also boasts famous iconic artworks from Andy Warhol and Keith Haring in an ever-changing selection. A taxi ride from JFK to Gramercy Park will cost you approximately $60.

The Langham New York on 5th Avenue encompasses all your needs with comfortably intimate rooms, a fitness center, and comprehensive spa treatments. For even more freedom while you travel, consider renting a car at JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

For luxury vacations in New York City:

The London NYC will have you feeling like you've visited two cities in just one trip! It features all-suites accommodation. You can travel in comfort to your midtown hotel like the locals do in an iconic NYC taxi from JFK Airport.

Refinery Hotel puts other accommodation options to shame with a 360 degree rooftop lounge and minimalist modern décor. Just a few blocks from Grand Central Station, it boasts a swanky bar and stunning downtown views. Consider taking the train for a classic experience when traveling in and out of New York City.

For budget vacations in New York City:

The Redbury New York is a 4-star hotel in the NoMad district which features a café, bar, and restaurant onsite so you don't get overwhelmed with choices on your next trip to the Big Apple. The Jamaica Airtrain is the fastest and least expensive way to transfer from midtown to JFK Airport.

Ameritania Times Square's location sets you in the heart of New York City's famous district, also within easy walking distance of the spacious Central Park. The most straightforward way to Times Square is via taxi from JFK Airport, which will cost approximately $60.

Where to stay in New York

New york vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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How Much Does It Cost to Visit NYC?

3 + 7 day trip costs.

Is New York expensive to visit? Well, that depends on when you visit and what you want to do here.

This post lays out the costs of both a 3-day trip and a 7-day trip for low and moderate budgets. With these numbers, you can estimate 4, 5, and 6-day trips.

As a walking tour company offering pay-what-you-wish walking tours, our local tour guides know a thing or two about keeping costs down in NYC.

We've led hundreds of thousands of people throughout the city and often our guests talk to us about what they've spent and what they should anticipate spending in NYC.

This insight, together with our knowledge of how much things cost, informed this post. We also include suggestions on how to keep costs down from members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group .

Our group consists of roughly 240,000 members and consists of locals (like our tour guides), travelers and newcomers to the city.

You don't have to join the group to read the posts, comments and recommendations, so take a look when you're done reading this post! You can even ask a question yourself!

• How to Use This Guide
• Snapshot of Costs
• Accommodations
• Transportation
• Attractions and Entertainment
• Tips from Locals and Travelers

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

When reading this guide, keep in mind the following:

(1) the prices are for one adult traveling in March . This is a non-peak time of year with moderate to pleasant weather. 

To find out about other good times of the year for your trip, take a look at our posts on the best time to visit NYC or the cheapest times to visit NYC .

Also, before booking, take a look at our post, How Many Days Is Enough For NYC?

(2) Prices are per day so you can use that amount to budget for whatever number of days you plan to come to NYC. We also list, in parentheses, the total cost for a 3-day trip and a 7-day trip.

(3) We include two price points:  budget  and moderate.

Budget is for someone who wants to spend as little as possible but still get a lot out of New York City.

This means staying at very inexpensive accommodations (most likely a hostel in a shared dorm), not dining at full-service restaurants, and spending money on activities unique to New York City. 

Moderate is for someone flexible with the amount of money to spend.

This means staying at mid-range accommodations in a convenient location, eating some meals out, and spending money on some of the best attractions in New York City.

(4) We do not include airfare since prices will vary greatly based on your departure point. Take a look at our post on how to find the cheapest flights to NYC . 

(5) In our summary of costs, we do not include the price of traveling to/from airports since this can vary depending on what airport you fly into. We did include prices in our transportation section anyway so you have the information.

TIP:  Our  New York City on a budget  post is an excellent complement to this post.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST FOR A TRIP TO NYC?

This summary of the overall cost of a trip is based on the detailed calculations just below this summary. Again, this does not include the costs of to/from airports

Budget Traveler

3-day trip (per person).

• Accommodations $375
• Transportation $17
• Attractions and activities $150
• Total $ 602

7-day trip (per person)

• Accommodations $875
• Transportation $34
• Attractions and activities $300
• Total $1,349

Moderate Traveler

• Accommodations $600
• Transportation $41
• Attractions and activities $388
• Total $1,179
• Accommodations $1400
• Transportation $79
• Attractions and activities $776
• Total $2,605

ACCOMMODATIONS

These are off-season prices per night, per person. In the parentheses are the cost of 3 nights/7 nights).

Double Occupancy room for one person in a budget hotel in a non-central neighborhood: $125 a night ($375 / $875) 

Tip : Want to keep the costs of accommodation way down? Consider staying in a hostel. NYC doesn't have a lot of them but the quality has been improving. Some are quite stylish!

3-star chain hotel in a less popular neighborhood in Manhattan at $200 per room per night ($600 / $1400)

Regardless of your budget, our posts listing  21 inexpensive hotels in NYC and  affordable accommodations in NYC can help you find a hotel suitable for your needs, tastes, and the amount of money you can spend.

TIP:  Check out The Pod Hotels . They have locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn that are fun, well-rated, and reasonably priced. A few of them have rooftop bars with great views!

TRANSPORTATION COSTS

Prices are standard regardless of your budget when you ride the subway and buses. 

The only variation is if you take several taxi rides. Find out more by reading our post on how to use taxis and Uber in NYC .

To/From airports via public transportation

These are not included in our summary above since each airport's transportation costs vary.

• John F. Kennedy (JFK)  r/t $22.30 with Air Train and subway
• LaGuardia (LGA) r/t $5.80 by subway
• Newark  (EWR) r/t $32 Local train and Air Train

Before purchasing your airport transportation, read our post on which MetroCard to purchase  since a subway ride is involved in getting to/from both JFK and LaGuardia airports. 

Getting around NYC

Most likely you will be using the subway at some point, though we say NYC is best seen on foot (plus it's free!)

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Budget   

• 3-day trip, take subway/buses twice a day - $17.40 
• 7-day trip, unlimited MetroCard - $34
• 3-day trip, 3 subway rides per day ($26.10) and splurge for one taxi ride ($15)  - $41.10
• 7-day trip, unlimited MetroCard ($34) and splurge for 3 taxi rides ($45) - $79

We highly recommend that you look at our post, Which NYC Subway MetroCard to Buy to get a detailed explanation of the costs.

And if you are new to using the subway system, read up on  navigating the New York City subway !

TIP: One way to combine entertainment and transportation costs is to take a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour .

Since you have to pay for transportation anyway, it may be worth it to you to pay a bit extra to travel from site to site while enjoying an entertaining ride between stops.

Check out our post on which New York bus tours are best .

ATTRACTIONS AND ENTERTAINMENT COSTS

When calculating these costs, we considered your budget and the amount of time you had to spend. 

On a 7-day trip, you will be doing more than you would if you were here for a quick 3-day trip. See our suggested itinerary for  3 days in New York . 

Also, be sure to read our post on  things to do for free in New York City .

If you are traveling with children, see our post about  free things to do with kids in NYC .

Budget Traveler

3 days - $150 per person.

If you take advantage of free museums and attractions , ride the free Staten Island Ferry instead of a Statue of Liberty cruise and take one of our  pay-what-you-wish walking tours , you could spend NOTHING!

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Add on the cost of visiting one of NYC’s observatories for breathtaking views of NYC and a deeply-reduced ticket for a Broadway show , you can keep yourself entertained for 3 days and nights for $150 or less.

7 Days  - $300 per person

You are here for twice as long, so you have more time to occupy. Your budget will be about double your cost for a 3-day trip.

In addition to the above activities, add on a few paid attractions and activities such as the Bronx Zoo , the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and a  Statue of Liberty cruise .

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With an additional night of paid entertainment such as a show, comedy, or pub crawl, your total is $300.

TIP: Even for those on a tight budget, you may find that some of the less expensive tourist passes will save you money on sightseeing in the long run.

Take a look at our post comparing NYC tourist passes to see if getting a pass is right for you.

If you plan to see several NYC attractions , we recommend buying a tourist deal pass.

These passes aren't cheap, but they can save you up to 55% of the cost of tickets to NYC attractions and activities. 

See our guide,  Which NYC  Tourist Pass is Best?  to compare what is available and if a pass is right for you.

Regardless of your budget, take advantage of the many free things to do in NYC so you can spend your money on attractions that charge admission.

3 Days - $388

We reached this amount by using the below 3-day itinerary designed to get the most out of a short visit.

TIP : To see a lot of the city in a short amount of time, consider taking a Hop-on, Hop-Off bus tour . They are available in increments of 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours. 

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island $25
• 9/11 Museum and Memorial  $33 (Memorial is free)
• One World Observatory $44
• Pay-what-you-wish Lower Manhattan tour
• 24 Hour Hop-on, Hop-Off bus tour $54
• Museum of Modern Art $25
• Bronx Zoo or similar attraction $27
• Pay-what-you-wish Midtown Manhattan tour
• Broadway Show with a cheap ticket $100
• Pay-what-you-wish Central Park tour
• Metropolitan Museum of Art $25
• Rockefeller Center - free
• Top of the Rock at night $55

TIP: There are a few tourist passes, like the CityPASS and the Smart Destinations  Build Your Own Pass  that can save you up to 25% even if you are here for a short stay.  

Since many passes include “skip the line” privileges, you will also save on time. 

7 Days - $776

In addition to the above activities, take advantage of even more free activities like walking the Brooklyn Bridge, visiting the High Line, and exploring Soho, Chinatown, and Little Italy.

We offer pay-what-you-wish walking tours of these neighborhoods and more!

We also offer  pay-what-you-wish food tours and night tours. See our calendar of all NYC tours .

Even with so many free things to do, you will still spend double on attractions and entertainment as you will have more than twice the amount of time to fill with activities.

TIP:  With this high cost just for activities and attractions, we encourage you to consider a tourist pass. For example, you could save up to 55% with a  New York Pass .   

MEALS AND RESTAURANTS

One of the most incredible things about New York City is that you can get incredible food of every type of cuisine at any price! 

You can eat three meals a day for $10 a day and it will still taste good! See our guide to  cheap eats in NYC.

Prices are based on the below menu, which gives you the chance to taste several classic New York foods. 

• Breakfast - a bagel and coffee
• Lunch - a slice of pizza  or  deli sandwiches
• Dinner - a meal in either Chinatown  and  Little Italy

Budget:   $20 per day ($60/$140)

Moderate: $50 per day  ($150/$350).

Note: Prices do not include tips, as you may only go to restaurants that do not have waitstaff. If you do have sit-down service, add a 15% tip for good service. See our post on tipping in New York City .

Alcoholic drinks

Prices do not include the cost of an alcoholic beverage. In NYC you will pay a premium for alcohol with your meals.

The average cost of a beer is $6, a glass of mediocre wine will be $8, and a mixed drink upwards of $10! Regardless of your budget, no one likes to pay $6 for a bottle of beer!

Take a look at our post on Happy Hour to find out how to save a lot for a good drink! We also have a  self - guided tour of historic New York City bars .

Because the amount you spend on shopping can vary wildly depending on your tastes and what you want to purchase (beyond souvenirs), we decided not to include costs in this guide.

But we do recommend that you check out the following posts:

• Budget Shopping in NYC
• Shop at an Outlet Center
• Shopping at Grand Central Station
• Gramercy Thrift and Vintage Shopping Day Tour  
• East Village Vintage & Boutiques Tour

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TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS

We hope you found the above information and approximate calculations helpful to give you a sense of the cost of a trip to NYC. 

To help you keep costs down, we've included replies from members of our popular New York Travel Tips Facebook group to this question posted in the group.

Here, Yvonne covers all the best budget basics!

For food, Chinatown, pizza and food carts are the way to go. This is echoed by so many group members.

An interesting option she suggests is to go to Whole Foods (a chain of supermarkets throughout the city) and get their pre-packaged food. 

With tables and chairs, it's like eating in a restaurant. The food is great too!

In the second half of her comment, she notes that she used a money-saving tourist attraction pass, and to maximize her savings, she planned carefully what attractions to go to and which to skip. 

See our post on tourist attraction passes where we cover this planning process.

If you're on a 7-day trip, or if less, expect to use the subway a lot, get an unlimited MetroCard.

Lastly, she recommends our pay-what-you-like walking tours. We are so happy she enjoyed them and that we were able to keep her costs down.

Here, Dr Tracy lists just a handful of the fantastic things you can do for free or cheaply.

Robbee adds to Dr Tracy’s ideas with our favorite thing to do -- walk around!

NYC has so many neighborhoods with “unique flavors”, and visiting them gives you a true sense of what the real New York is like.

Read about NYC’s neighborhoods here .

Peter also backs the idea of walking around and taking in the city. It’s free and fascinating.

Take a look at our post on things to do for free in New York City .

Many people want to see a Broadway show when in town. This could be the one thing that costs you the most. But it doesn't have to be.

Here are the best ways to get inexpensive tickets.

We cover all these options: TodayTix, TKTS booth, Broadway Roulette, Off-Broadway shows and more in our post, How to Get Cheap Broadway Tickets .

Many replies offered advice on how to save on the cost of food as this was the most flexible aspect of a trip to NYC.

The biggest misconception about NYC is that food is expensive.

Jeff points out that he was happily surprised by how affordable food was, so long as you don’t plan to dine at the most expensive restaurants.

TIP : Want fancy food at a third or more of its regular price? Check out our post on Restaurant Week .

The most popular cheap foods mentioned were bagels, pizza and food trucks.

Keeping your breakfast and lunch simple will allow you to splurge on dinner.

Skip the drinks as NYC costs are pretty high in restaurants. If you want some beer, it’s pretty cheap in a supermarket.

What is so great is that these foods are pretty good if you know where to find the best.

See our post on NYC Cheap Eats for a list of the best, inexpensive food.

If you have any more questions about the cost of visiting NYC (or anything else about the city), check out the suggestions in our New York Travel Tips Facebook group !

Related Posts

• Best time to visit NYC
• Cheapest times to visit NYC
• How many days is enough to visit NYC?

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What’s the best bus to New York? We tested 5 for comfort and value.

No matter how you travel between the major cities of the East Coast, the journey gets old fast. The New Jersey Turnpike is boring to drive. Amtrak prices can be outrageous. Flying looks good on paper, but you still have to figure out a ride to the airport ; plus it comes with a bigger carbon footprint.

Then you have the bus, which can be the most affordable way to get from one Mid-Atlantic metropolis to another.

East Coast travelers have a glut of options when it comes to buses. You have your ultra-budget lines, midrange and luxury tiers. Having so many companies to choose from is convenient, but it’s also confusing. We tested five companies on trips between Washington, D.C., New York and Boston to help you decide which to take.

Pros: Affordable. Robust schedule.

Cons: Often packed. Itchy seats. Long lines to board.

Megabus is the Starbucks of the pack: ever-available and a little more expensive than it should be, but mostly acceptable.

The best case for Megabus is the volume of options. Unlike some of the other brands with one or two departures a day, you can find a Megabus between big cities like Philadelphia, New York and Baltimore at all hours. It also has the standard fixings: personal power outlets, WiFi and a bathroom.

Last November, I booked a last-minute round trip between D.C. and New York. The first leg was about $50 for a priority seat I reserved in the front row of the top level of the bus. The second leg without a seat assignment was $45. Book a few weeks in advance and you can find serious savings; similar one-way tickets could have cost me just $4.99 if I’d planned ahead.

Sitting in that front seat on the way out felt like cruising on the freeway in a spaceship or watching an Imax movie. No staring at the back of another bus seat, or feeling crammed in a little row. I learned later this seat assignment isn’t for everyone. My in-laws recently booked it and said they felt like they were sliding off the seat the whole trip.

Last word: Megabus is a trusty steed. It’s no-frills, but it’s always there for you.

2. Tripper Bus

Pros: Timely. Nice customer loyalty program.

Cons: Misleading website.

I booked a ride ($58, one-way) on Tripper Bus because the website promised the “epitome of luxury” with “leather captain seats.” But when I boarded my trip from Manhattan to D.C., I found no leather or luxury — just another basic bus with cloth seats. The WiFi was so bad, I could barely connect to my email to find out what went wrong.

Apparently, the company has two different bus options: standard coach and Elite. The website doesn’t make that very clear; neither does the company’s Instagram account. Its profile tagline calls itself an “Upscale Luxury coach service.” I felt part culpable, part catfished.

Last word: At the end of the day, Tripper is fine. It got me to my final destination as planned, even leaving a few minutes early once all passengers had been accounted for. The electrical outlets worked. The company also offers a buy-six-tickets-get-one-free scheme, which is nice for frequent travelers.

Pros: Luxurious and exclusive-feeling. An ocean of legroom. Reliable WiFi.

Cons: Limited schedule. Often expensive.

The Jet is a bona fide fancy bus between New York and D.C. reminiscent of the long-defunct (and much beloved) Royal Sprinter. It’s a smaller bus than your mega coach and seats only 14 passengers.

A huge selling point is the seats. They’re 22 inches wide — 5 inches wider than some airline seats — and made with a gel-foam base and a memory-foam back. They recline 45 degrees, boast motion-canceling technology and have six feet of distance between rows.

When I reviewed the company after it debuted in 2021, they offered lots of free perks onboard, from coffee to snacks. One-way fares were just $99. Now it’s usually closer to $200 — rivaling prices of Amtrak or flying — and you have to pay for coffee and snacks (although alcohol remains free for up to two drinks). I recently bought a one-way ticket for my fiancé, Dan, for $155, including tax, but have seen fares as low as $89.

While the motion-canceling seats are very comfortable, Dan did comment that his most recent driver accelerated and braked so aggressively that it did not feel like a smooth ride.

Last word: If your budget allows for a more expensive ticket than the typical bus, the Jet does feel like a special treat.

4. Peter Pan

Pros: Prompt. Cheap. Skilled driver. Clean bathroom.

Cons: Old bus. Old seats. Less privacy.

For $38, I took a Boston to New York trip on a Peter Pan bus; fares start at just $14 for the same route if you book them further in advance, according to the website . So it was no surprise that the bus was old, from its exterior paint job to the cloth seats. It claimed to have WiFi (it didn’t work for me) but it did have functioning electric outlets.

My favorite part of the Peter Pan experience was that the driver was a seasoned professional who seemed like he had a lifetime of experience; you could tell by the way he breezed through his intro spiel — “please be nice,” and don’t make calls on speakerphone — “that is just obnoxious.” He moved the big old vehicle through traffic like butter.

The company does offer a perks rewards program to encourage repeat customers.

Last word: Peter Pan isn’t worth going out of your way to book, but if you need a ride in a pinch, it’ll do.

5. Vamoose Gold

Pros: Quiet. Clean. Thoughtful touches. Friendly service.

Cons: Bumpy ride. Spotty WiFi.

Vamoose Bus offers an economy version and a business class. In early April, I took the more expensive ($83 one-way) Vamoose Gold Bus to New York from Bethesda, Md. — an affluent Washington suburb — on the recommendation of a colleague. As a D.C. resident, it wasn’t ideal to Uber almost a half-hour north to catch the bus, but for me that was only 10 minutes longer than driving to Union Station, where the other buses depart. The company also leaves from Arlington, Va.

There was helpful signage at the departure location and an attendant handing out complimentary full-sized water bottles for customers.

I boarded the sleek black beauty to discover a pristine interior, plush leather and lots of open seats. My fellow passengers took some work calls but maintained a courteous volume throughout the trip. The bus was bouncier than you’d expect from its appearance; I switched seats mid-trip and found a seat closer to the back that somehow felt a little smoother. Worse, the WiFi was not dependable for a service marketed toward business travelers. Sometimes it had speeds capable of uploading a high-res file; sometimes it was so bad I couldn’t open an email.

Last word: Overall, Vamoose Gold was my favorite. It was nice enough to justify the price difference between Megabus but isn’t as expensive as the Jet.

How to Eat in New York on a Budget?

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: May 11, 2024

Want to know how to eat in New York on a budget? We share money-saving tips, so you can eat and visit NYC on a budget.

Everyone around says that food in New York City is outrageously expensive. Well, I guess some people just end up in fancy restaurants without even meaning to. This can truly make you think that eating out in NYC is too much.

Sure, there are places where dinner can cost hundreds of dollars, and even a simple meal with wine might set you back over $100. But let’s be honest, dropping a hundred bucks on dinner isn’t something most of us can do.

Well, I feel you. When you’re a tourist, you just can’t know where to find some budget-friendly spots among the thousands of restaurants in the city. That’s the exact reason I’m here at your service! I’ve lived in New York City for more than 8 years, and I’m ready to tell all the secrets of eating out without going broke. 

How to Eat in New York on a Budget

Try the New York Slice

If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you’ve gotta try a classic New York slice. And you don’t have to spend a ton on it! There’s a pizza joint on practically every block, so you’re bound to find a cheap option nearby, no matter where you’re staying in NYC .

Everyone loves how big and thin New York-style pizzas are, and in Brooklyn , they’re even bigger. They usually sell single slices, perfect for grabbing on the go. It used to be you could snag a slice for a buck, but nowadays they might run you two or three dollars. 

Pack Some Dry Foods

Quite unexpected, but… make sure to pack some dry foods when you travel. Depending on how long you’re staying, you can either put them in your backpack, or bring along a separate container just for them. 

Granola bars, peanut butter, nuts, trail mix, and dry cereal are quite a healthy choice, handy for a fast breakfast or a snack. You’ll find these items are much pricier at a local store in NYC.

Go to Chinatown

If you’re looking for hearty, tasty food, head to Chinatown. Just take the subway to Lower Manhattan, below Canal Street, and you’ll find yourself in a Chinatown known for its diverse food scene.

There you’ll find all sorts of cuisines like Cantonese, Malaysian, Hunan, and more. 

Get a Hot Dog

Well, everything in New York City has hot dog stands. That’s probably not the healthiest option, but it’s just the perfect fast meal for only a couple bucks!

The hot dog has been a favorite for ages, but it really took off thanks to Nathan Handwerker , who came to live in NYC from Poland.

Back in 1915, he worked at a Coney Island hot dog stand.That’s when he had the idea to open his own stand and charge even less for hot dogs than his old boss. So, that’s how hot dogs became a cultural phenomenon in the city.

If you are spending 4 days in NYC , you are bound to pass and try a hot dog!

Ask the Locals

Looking for a way to eat out in New York City without fighting the tides of crowds for an expensive meal? Everyone else is using Google to find restaurant suggestions, so don’t be the only one! When I first moved here, I kept ending up at packed tourist spots, spending way too much and waiting forever for my food.

Instead, try asking locals for their favorite spots. There are more authentic and cheaper ways to eat if you ask the people who live here for advice – they just won’t leave you broke, or standing in line.

Yes, it’s tempting to plan every meal ahead of time, but the best way to make your food adventure in the city unforgettable is to leave some time to talk to locals.

Have you ever tried a colorful rainbow bagel in New York City? Honestly? I’m really enjoying it! Bagels and the famous pizza slices are all very popular here.

New Yorkers take their bagels really seriously – if you ask someone who used to live in New York but now lives in Los Angeles about bagels, they’ll probably say they miss them in New York a lot.

In New York City, most bagels with cream cheese usually cost between $3 to $5. If you want lox with it (which is highly recommended), it might cost a bit more. And if you’re thinking of a bagel sandwich, you’re looking at around $5 to $7. 

Cook Your Own Meals

This one should be a no-brainer, but… Instead of going out to eat, you could make your own breakfast in the kitchen. Putting eggs in a bowl and frying them is all it takes. Yeah, I know, New York City has a lot of great places to eat out. But if you really want to save money and still have a good time, just pick a nearby grocery store. 

There you can choose between a ready-made meal and the products you’ll need to make your own. Next, either find a nice spot in one of the parks to eat outside or go back to your Airbnb to make your dish. For your convenience, many supermarkets even have places to sit inside.

Eat Deli Sandwiches

Now let’s talk about splitting those big deli sandwiches in NYC! If you’ve ever been there, you’ll know those sandwiches are massive! A neat trick I love is grabbing one sandwich, a big bag of chips, and finding a nice spot in a park to chow it down together with my partner.  Trust me, it’s enough for two! 

Really, why not just sit on a park bench and play a good arcade, like Jelly Reels Demo ? And if it’s chilly out, just head back to your hotel or find a cozy indoor spot to enjoy your deli feast. 

Try Dumplings

Dumplings from China are one of the best affordable meals in town. You can grab a big plate of them for just a few bucks, and they’re even cheaper if you buy them frozen. They’ll keep you full for lunch, with some left for dinner. Plus, since there are lots of Chinese restaurants in the city, these dumplings are as authentic as they come. 

Eat Outside Times Square

Don’t stick to eating in Times Square or other places filled with tourists. It’s a big deal! Food there is super expensive and honestly not even that great. You’ll find a bunch of chain restaurants, the same ones you can find anywhere else in the country. 

Instead, why not wander a bit and try something more authentic? Hop on the Subway and head to Greenwich Village or Brooklyn. You’ll get a real taste of New York and save a bunch of money too.

Food Trucks

Ever noticed those colorful food trucks buzzing around the city? They’re like mobile kitchens dishing out quick and budget-friendly meals: shawarma, hot dogs, gyros, or halal food. 

They’re often parked near popular spots like Central Park, Union Square, Midtown, or the financial district. People love them just because it’s something of a quick breakfast or lunch. And the best of it? Most meals won’t set you back more than $5-7.

New York City is absolutely gorgeous! Really, though, worrying about money can ruin any trip, even to such a beautiful place. But guess what? You don’t have to spend a lot of money to eat great food. So, relax, have fun, and enjoy every bite of the Big Apple without worrying about your wallet! 

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Trump suggests Chinese migrants are in the US to build an ‘army.’ The migrants tell another story

The Associated Press

May 13, 2024, 12:13 AM

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NEW YORK (AP) — It was 7 a.m. on a recent Friday when Wang Gang, a 36-year-old Chinese immigrant, jostled for a day job in New York City’s Flushing neighborhood.

When a potential employer pulled up near the street corner, home to a Chinese bakery and pharmacy, Wang and dozens of other men swarmed around the car. They were hoping to be picked for work on a construction site, at a farm, as a mover — anything that would pay.

Wang had no luck, even as he waited for two more hours. It would be another day without a job since he crossed the southern U.S. border illegally in February, seeking better financial prospects than he had in his hometown of Wuhan, China.

The daily struggle of Chinese immigrants in Flushing is a far cry from the picture former President Donald Trump and other Republicans have sought to paint of them as a coordinated group of “military-age” men who have come to the United States to build an “army” and attack America.

Since the start of the year, as the Chinese newcomers have been trying to find their footing in the U.S., Trump has alluded to “fighting-age” or “military-age” Chinese men at least six times and suggested at least twice that they were forming a migrant “army.” It’s a talking point that is being amplified in conservative media and on social platforms.

“They’re coming in from China — 31, 32,000 over the last few months — and they’re all military age and they mostly are men,” Trump said during a campaign rally last month in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. “And it sounds like to me, are they trying to build a little army in our country? Is that what they’re trying to do?”

As Trump and others exploit a surge in Chinese border crossings and real concerns about China’s geopolitical threat to further their political aims, Asian advocacy organizations worry the rhetoric could encourage further harassment and violence toward the Asian community. Asian people in the U.S. already experienced a spike in hate incidents fueled by xenophobic rhetoric during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Trump’s dehumanizing rhetoric and blatant attacks against immigrant communities will, without question, only fuel more hate against not only Chinese immigrants but all Asian Americans in the U.S.,” Cynthia Choi, co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate and co-executive director of Chinese for Affirmative Action, said in a statement to The Associated Press. “In the midst of an already inflamed political climate and election year, we know all too well how harmful such rhetoric can be.”

Gregg Orton, national director of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans, said many Asian American communities remain “gripped by fear” and that some Asians still feel uncomfortable about taking public transportation.

“To know that we might be staring down another round of that, it’s pretty sobering,” he said.

‘THIS TRIP IS DEADLY’

Wang, who traveled several weeks from Ecuador to the southern U.S. border, then spent 48 hours in an immigration detention facility before heading to Flushing, said the idea that Chinese migrants were building a military “does not exist” among the immigrants he has met.

“It is impossible that they would walk on foot for over one month” for that purpose, he said. “We came here to make money.”

Immigrants who spoke to the AP in Flushing, a densely populated Chinese cultural enclave in Queens, said they came to the U.S. to escape poverty and financial losses from China’s strict lockdown during the pandemic, or to escape the threat of imprisonment in a repressive society where they couldn’t speak or exercise their religion freely.

Many said they continue to struggle to get by. Life in the U.S. is not what they had imagined.

Since late 2022 — when China’s three-year COVID-19 lockdown began to lift — the U.S. has seen a sharp rise in the number of Chinese migrants. In 2023, U.S. authorities arrested more than 37,000 Chinese nationals at the U.S.-Mexico border, more than 10 times the previous year’s number. In December alone, border officials arrested 5,951 Chinese nationals on the southern border, a record monthly high, before the number trended down during the first three months of this year.

The U.S. and China just recently began cooperating again to deport Chinese immigrants who were in the country illegally.

Yet with tens of thousands of Chinese newcomers who have crossed into the U.S. illegally, there has been no evidence that they have tried to mount a military force or training network.

It’s true that the bulk of those who have come are single adults, according to federal data. While the data doesn’t include gender, there are more men than women on the perilous route, which typically involves catching a flight to South America and then making the long, arduous trek north to the U.S. border.

Chinese immigrants in Flushing said one reason men may be coming alone in higher numbers is the expense — often more than $10,000 per person to cover airfare, lodging, payments to local guides and bribes to police in countries along their journey. Another could be China’s longtime family planning policy that skewered the gender ratio toward males.

There’s also the danger, said a 35-year-old Chinese man who only gave his family name of Yin because he was concerned about the safety of his wife and children, who remain in China.

He had arrived in Flushing in late April, five weeks after he left the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. He had traveled through Panama’s dangerous Darien Gap jungle and across Mexico. Signs of the journey were still fresh: His hair was messy, skin tanned with fine wrinkles, and his cardigan, once white, had not been washed for weeks.

“This trip is deadly. People die. The trip isn’t suitable for women — it’s not suitable for anyone,” said Yin.

He said that as the breadwinner, he came alone, with the hope his family could join him later.

‘CHASING A BETTER LIFE’

While some in China have chosen to leave through investment schemes or talent programs in developed nations, those without resources set off for Latin America after learning from social media posts about the journey north.

Upon arriving, most of them fan out to large cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago and New York with well-established Chinese communities, where they hope to get work and start a new life.

Immigrants who arrived in Flushing said they came to America to escape China, not to fight on its behalf.

Thirty-six-year-old Chen Wang, from the southeastern Chinese province of Fujian, said he decided to come to the U.S. in late 2021 after he posted comments critical of the ruling party on Twitter. He was admonished by local police.

“I feared that I could be locked up, so I came to America,” Chen said.

More than two years later, he is still unemployed and lives in a tent in the woods that he has made into a home. He built a fence from dead branches and dug a ditch so he could hand-wash his laundry and wash himself.

He said life in the U.S. has fallen short of his expectations, but he hopes someday to get legal status so he can travel freely around the world and live a simple life in a self-built cabin.

Chen, who served briefly in the Chinese military two decades ago, said he mostly encountered people from the bottom of Chinese society during his trek through Central America. He met no one else who had served in the Chinese military and described his fellow Chinese on the journey as simply people “chasing a better life.”

LONG HISTORY OF ASIAN STEREOTYPES

To be sure, U.S. intelligence leaders have grave concerns about the threat China’s authoritarian government poses to the country through its espionage , military capabilities and more. There also have been crimes committed by Chinese immigrants, including the arrest in March of a Chinese national breaching a military base in California, but there has been no evidence to support the assertion that migrants from China are coming to the U.S. to fight Americans.

Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell called the Chinese nationals “economic migrants” during an April town hall meeting hosted by the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations.

China has said it strongly opposes illegal immigration, and police there have arrested some who have tried to leave. Social media posts that offer advice and guides to come to the U.S. illegally have been censored in China. Instead, there are posts warning about dangers along the way and racial discrimination in the U.S.

China’s foreign ministry told the AP that Trump’s claims of a Chinese migrant army were “an egregious mismatch of the facts.” The Department of Homeland Security didn’t respond to requests for comment.

Steven Cheung, communications director for the Trump campaign, said in an emailed statement that every American should be concerned about military-age Chinese men crossing into the U.S.

“These individuals have not been vetted or screened, and we have no idea who they are affiliated with or what their intention is,” Cheung said. “This sets a dangerous precedent for bad actors and potentially nefarious individuals to exploit Joe Biden’s porous border to send countless military-aged men into the United States completely unfettered.”

The army-building narrative has been shared by many other conservatives.

“They are fighting-age males, primarily single, and you know, this isn’t a coincidence,” Republican Rep. Mike Garcia of California said during a Fox Business interview last month, nodding when host Maria Bartiromo suggested the immigrants could later be used as “saboteurs” if Chinese President Xi Jinping “directs that.”

Sapna Cheryan, a psychology professor at the University of Washington, said the claims about Chinese migrants — made without evidence — build on a long history of pervasive stereotypes that Asian people do not belong in the country, ideas that have fueled acts of violence against Asian Americans.

“If that rhetoric is happening again, one thing we might be able to predict is, well, people will probably take that and feel emboldened to engage in these heinous acts,” she said.

Li Kai, also known as Khaled, a 44-year-old Muslim from Tangshan in the northern Hebei province, a city close to Beijing, said he was worried about Trump’s statements regarding illegal immigration and Muslims, but said he has no choice other than to make his new life in the U.S. work.

He was one of the few who made the trip with his family. He shares a bunk bed and sofa with his wife and two sons in a temporary home in Flushing where he has placed an American flag on the wall.

Li said they fled China last year, after he participated in a gathering over the future of a local mosque that was broken up by riot police and he feared his own arrest. He chose the U.S. because it is a free society, where his children have learned to recite from the Quran.

He said the migrants he encountered on his journey all left China for the U.S. to try to improve their prospects in life, and he was grateful for that opportunity. When his sons are at school, he studies for a commercial driver’s license and then hopes to find a job and start paying taxes.

“Now that I have brought my family here, I want to have a stable life here,” he said. “I would like to pay back.”

Tang reported from Washington.

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about AP’s democracy initiative here . The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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The Best Day Trips From NYC

By Nicole Kliest

It’s indisputable— New York City is one of the greatest cities on earth. But sometimes even its shiniest qualities are overshadowed by its flaws—ones that can wear even the most ardent New Yorker out. That’s why skipping town for a breath of fresh air, even for a day, is a self-care strategy everyone should adopt. Conveniently, there’s an abundance of things to do just beyond the city limits, from nature trails for outdoor enthusiasts to vintage shops well-suited for the antique hunter.

Before curating the day’s itinerary, determine whether you’ll be traveling via public transportation or picking up a car as this will inform the destinations most accessible to you. (Zipcar, Kyte, and Turo are car rental companies that are useful for quick trips like these.) Then, pick a destination that aligns with your interests. In desperate need of green space ? Hoping to bring back a new decor accent for the apartment? On the hunt for the best farm-to-table meal of your life? The best day trips from NYC deliver in spades. Ahead, our guide to making your great escape.

By Irene Kim

By Audrey Noble

A natural wilderness beloved by just about every New Yorker, the Catskill Mountains are vast and beautiful. And while some regions are farther to reach than others, the Sullivan County Catskills are only 90 minutes from the city. Here you’ll find Callicoon, a charming hamlet that’s home to Seminary Hill —a hotel, restaurant, and working cider that offers tours and tastings . On your tour, you’ll explore the 12-acre organic orchard with 1,500 trees that produce over 60 varieties of apples and Perry pears, and end with a guided tasting of eight ciders. While in town, be sure to swing by Callicoon’s downtown historic district to pick up handmade homeware at the newly-opened Black Walnut (it turns into a cocktail bar at night). You’ll also be within driving distance of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts as well as locations for kayaking, canoeing, and hiking.

Approximate distance from NYC: 90-minute drive

American architect Philip Cortelyou Johnson was an early proponent of modern architecture and had a career that spanned nearly 75 years (including running the architecture department at MoMA). Visit one of his masterpieces— Glass House —in Canaan, Connecticut, which was designed and constructed in the 1940s. Today, visitors can explore the original mid century structures as well as several others, including a unique subterranean painting gallery. Additionally, this year marks the Glass House’s 75th anniversary and includes the opening of the Brick House to the public (just 80 feet from the main site) after an extensive restoration. Join a tour or guide yourself, there’s much to be appreciated at this historic campus.

Approximate distance from NYC: 2-hour train ride

When Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection opened in 2022, it was unlike any other hospitality concept in the area. Set on a sprawling farm surrounded by hiking trails and tranquil mountainsides, the luxury resort is the kind of place that makes you wonder why you live in a city at all. And even if you’re not a guest at the hotel, day trippers can experience Wildflower Farm’s incredible programming, such as their summer event with master floral designer, Ariella Chezar, where she’ll lead a full-day workshop followed by a ‘bloom flower dinner’ held in the property’s beautiful barn. And even if you’re not partaking in a workshop, a reservation at Wildflower Farm’s on-property restaurant Clay is a must.

Approximate distance from NYC: 2-hour drive

If your driver's license is defunct but you don’t feel like getting on a train, why not hop aboard a beautiful boat? Through Classic Harbor Line , you can charter a private yacht or classic motor boat for a peaceful day on the water. The cruise departs from Pier 62 and the skipper can help you chart your very own course (contingent on weather). Depending on the mood, one can glide up the Hudson River to see the Palisades or cruise out to New York Harbor to see the Statue of Liberty up close—all with the iconic Manhattan skyline as the backdrop.

Approximate distance from NYC: Depart from Chelsea Piers

Many New Yorkers relocated to Hudson, New York en masse during the pandemic, and for good reason. This quiet, charming town is surrounded by nature and offers a slower pace of life, while still feeling connected to a vibrant community. For visitors making the trip up here for the day (perhaps even to scope out some real estate?) one of the best things to do is antique hunting. Begin your day at The Antique Warehouse . Inside, you’ll discover 40,000 square feet of incredible vintage and antique finds spanning across all styles and periods of furniture, lighting, architectural salvage, and decorative accessories. If there’s time left, you can pop into other shops on the main drag like Theron Ware , and refuel for the ride back home at the cafe inside The Maker hotel.

Approximate distance from NYC: 2-hour drive or train ride

If your idea of a day well spent includes meandering between farm stands, sampling local wine, and soaking in fresh air, head out to the North Fork on Long Island. This sleepy wine country has been around since 1973 and is ideal for those who want a pleasant day among the vineyards, perhaps enjoying a casual meal or taking a coffee down to the water. There are over 50 wineries in the region, each producing a variety of styles. Need a few suggestions? Bedell , Lenz , Macari , McCall , and Paumanok are all top-notch spots to add to your list.

Need to touch some grass ? Lace up your hiking boots and head for the picturesque Delaware Water Gap. Here, you can explore a network of beautiful nature trails at a range of difficulty levels. If you’re a sucker for a waterfall, head for Raymondskill Falls and Dingmans Falls (located 15 minutes away from each other by car). The three-tiered Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania and is reached by a quick out-and-back loop. Similarly, the trail to Dingmans Falls is only a mile-and-a-half, making it easy to knock both out in the same day.

Approximate distance from NYC: 1.5-hour drive

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