If you're looking for an exciting weekend filled with fun and exploration, you're in luck. Manhattan offers many free activities and attractions that delight locals and visitors alike.
From iconic landmarks to cultural experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy without spending a dime.
In the following list, we will provide you with a curated selection of free things to do in Manhattan this weekend, ensuring you make the most of your time in this captivating city.
1. A Tour Of The New York Public Library

Free things to do in NYC for students include visiting the New York Public Library. It is known for its stunning architecture and remarkable historical collections.
Take a break from the city's hustle and bustle and explore the Rose Main Reading Room, which features chandeliers and a beautifully ornate ceiling with murals.
Individuals of all ages interested in books and history, not just students, can come and appreciate the artistic beauty of the New York Public Library in Manhattan New York.
You can also enjoy a free guided tour of the building, viewing masterpieces like the first Gutenberg Bible. Plus, bring the kids to see the original stuffed animals that inspired the Winnie the Pooh stories.
2. Take A Leisurely Walk In Central Park

Things to do in Central Park in Manhattan New York offers a range of activities that allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature.
Despite being located in the heart of bustling Manhattan, the biggest park in NYC serves as a haven for people from all walks of life - athletes, daydreamers, musicians, strollers, and migratory birds who flock here yearly.
One can easily spend an entire day exploring the park's 50 fountains, monuments, sculptures, and 36 bridges and arches.
For those who love recreational activities, there are plenty of options - skating, cycling, rowing, basketball, and climbing, among others. The park truly has something for everyone to enjoy.
3. Explore The High Line

The High Line in Manhattan New York is an elevated public park. It was constructed on a former New York Central Railroad spur.
It spans from Gansevoort Route in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street, within 10th and 12th Avenues.
This beautiful park boasts lush horticulture, captivating artworks, seasonal food vendors, community programming, and breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline.
It's open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, although the hours may vary depending on the season. The High Line is a popular tourist destination and offers a unique perspective of the city that never sleeps.
4. Trip To The 9/11 Memorial Plaza

What to do in Manhattan New York? Visit the Memorial is situated on the previous World Trade Center complex site and covers almost half the 16-acre location.
9/11 Memorial & Museum features twin reflecting pools of nearly an acre each, and they boast the largest man-made waterfalls in North America.
Surrounding the pools are bronze parapets that display the names of the victims of the 9/11 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.
The Museum showcases the narrative of 9/11 through artifacts, imagery, personal accounts, and interactive technology. The Memorial is open to the public seven days a week and free of charge
5. Celebrate 4th of July With Macy's Fireworks Spectacular

Things to do in Manhattan New York in July is to attend an annual event on the 4th of July. Be a part of Macy's Fireworks in NYC.
Macy's produces the largest pyrotechnic display in the United States. The fireworks are launched from five barges along the East River, between E. 26th and E. 40th Streets in Midtown Manhattan.
This event is free to attend, and you can catch an unobstructed view of the skyline above the East River from various locations in Midtown Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn.
Likewise, the Macy's Fireworks Spectacular is a beloved New York City tradition that draws millions of spectators and viewers.
6. Stroll Around Brooklyn Bridge

Things to do in NYC this weekend include a stroll to Brooklyn Bridge. This suspension bridge stretches across the East River and connects Manhattan and Brooklyn.
It's an impressive feat of architecture and has gained worldwide recognition. The Brooklyn Bridge is an essential landmark of New York City, representing progress and ingenuity.
It's even been designated as a National Historic Landmark and is a key feature of the city's urban landscape.
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do activity for visitors to New York City. The pedestrian walkway offers a true New York City experience with stunning skyline and East River views.
If you're into photography, the Brooklyn Bridge is a popular spot for capturing iconic shots. So be sure to bring your camera along!
7. A Day Of Fun At Times Square

Things to do in Times Square New York is to relax on the Red Staircase located near the TKTS booth. This is the best place to experience the amazing energy of NYC.
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it attracts approximately 50 million visitors every year. The area is known for its connection to Broadway theater and the entertainment industry and offers various restaurants, shops, theaters, and other exciting attractions.
Stroll around the square, snap some photos, and soak up the iconic neon lights of Broadway. With its status as the heart of Manhattan and the star of countless movies and TV shows, there's no denying that Times Square is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Big Apple.
8. Enjoy Panoramic View Of Manhattan Skyline

Things to do in Lower Manhattan New York include enjoying the panoramic view of the Manhattan Skyline. Enjoy the view without spending any money.
Less than a mile from Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge Park provides the best close-up view of One World Trade Center. You can also see famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan Bridge.
If you prefer to relax in a park, Central Park has several areas where you can enjoy sights of the Manhattan skyline, such as the Great Lawn, the Bow Bridge, and the Belvedere Castle.
For a unique perspective, you can visit the High Line, an elevated park popular destination for locals and tourists. Other options include the Tudor City Bridge, Gantry Plaza State Park, and the Little Island.
9. Make A Trip To Staten Island Ferry

Free things to do in Manhattan include a no-cost ferry service on Staten Island Ferry. It shuttles passengers between Staten Island and Lower Manhattan in New York City.
It is the world's busiest passenger-only ferry system, with over 22 million riders in 2019. Running 24/7, the ferry departs every 15-20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes at other times. The journey lasts approximately 25 minutes.
Where does the Staten Island ferry go? The ferry provides breathtaking views of the New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. It's a renowned tourist destination, and many ride the ferry solely for the views.
It is a beloved and iconic feature of New York City, offering a free and convenient way to witness some of the city's most prominent landmarks. If you ever find yourself in New York, ride the Staten Island Ferry.
10. Explore Fifth Avenue Streets

Fifth Avenue Street in New York is a significant road in Manhattan. It stretches from Greenwich Village's Washington Square Park to Harlem's West 143rd Street.
It holds a reputation as one of the most famous and costly shopping streets globally and has become a popular tourist attraction. Every year, millions of visitors visit Fifth Avenue to shop, sightsee, and soak in the atmosphere.
The street houses several of the world's most renowned brands and stores, such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co., and Apple.
As a truly iconic street in New York City, it features some of the world's most famous brands and museums. If you ever find yourself in New York, stroll down Fifth Avenue to experience everything it offers.
11. Riverside Walks At Roosevelt Island

How to get to Roosevelt Island NYC? You have a few options: taking the subway, NYC ferry, driving, or RIOC Red Bus & Q102.
Nestled between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island is a small island in the East River that boasts numerous historical landmarks, such as the Nightingale-Bamford Hospital (formerly the New York City Lunatic Asylum) and the Blackwell Island Lighthouse.
Whether you're planning a quick day trip or an extended stay, you'll find plenty of exciting things to do and see here that provide an unparalleled perspective on New York City.
Additionally, the island boasts several notable tourist attractions, such as:
- Four Freedoms Park
- Roosevelt Island Tramway
- Roosevelt Island Farmers Market
- The Octagon Tower
- Wave Hill
12. Admire Bricks Townhouses At Greenwich Village

Things to do in Greenwich Village New York include numerous tourist attractions that are worth checking out. It is located in Lower Manhattan NYC.
This vibrant neighborhood is well-known for its rich arts scene, diverse population, and intellectual history.
Greenwich Village is a unique destination that boasts many attractions, such as shops, restaurants, and cafes, that are best experienced on foot.
It is also home to numerous art galleries, performance venues, and music spots, ensuring that there is always something for everyone. Whether you're attending a gallery opening, street performance, or live music show, Greenwich Village is the perfect place to be.
13. Watch Shakespeare In The Park

Looking for things to do in NYC today, catch Shakespeare In The Park. The Delacorte Theater is located at the intersection of West 81st Street and Central Park West.
The Public Theater at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park presents this annual summer theater festival. Running from late May to early September is worth checking out.
The Delacorte Theater is an open-air venue that can host up to 1,800 people, surrounded by lush greenery and trees. Best of all, tickets to Shakespeare in the Park are free!
You can enter a lottery system online or in person at the Public Theater. The lottery opens two weeks before each performance, so don't miss your chance to experience this fantastic event.
14. Enjoy Free Museum Days

Things to do in Manhattan NY must have a visit to the museum to explore the cultural and architectural beauty of Manhattan. Several museums provide free admission.
One of the most renowned museums in the world is The Metropolitan Museum of Art, located at 1000 Fifth Avenue, on the corner of 82nd Street.
On Fridays from 4:30 pm to 8:45 pm, admission is free. Another top-notch museum is the Brooklyn Museum at 200 Eastern Parkway, on the corner of Washington Avenue. On Saturdays from 5 pm to 11 pm, admission is also free.
15. Listen To Free Music In The Park

Cool things to do in Manhattan; consider checking out the free music events frequently held in the parks. You can find the list of the upcoming concerts on several online outlets.
Central Park and other parks in the area often host free concerts and performances, which you can find listed on the parks' websites or on sites like Time Out New York.
For an even bigger selection of free performances, be sure to check out the SummerStage festival, which runs from June to September and showcases an array of music, dance, theater, and spoken word acts in parks throughout New York City.