Visiting New York City on a budget is possible with careful planning and smart choices. You can cut costs by taking advantage of NYC's public transportation system and purchasing MetroCards that offer unlimited rides for a set period of time.

Skip the yellow taxis and explore neighborhoods on free walking tours led by groups like Free Tours By Foot and SANDEMANs. You'll also find that the infamous Statue of Liberty and other iconic landmarks aren't as expensive as you might think.

Public Transportation

Getting around New York City is easy with the subway, buses, and ferries. A MetroCard will make your commute much easier, and you can purchase a card at any subway station or MTA ticket booth. You can also load cash onto the cards for single rides or unlimited trips.

The subway is an easy way to travel around the city and offers 24 hours of service. Many apps are available that will help you map out your routes, and you can ask subway attendants for assistance if needed. It is also helpful to have a map or print out directions before your trip.

If you want to avoid the hassle of navigating the subway, consider renting a Citi Bike. These bikes are located throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Jersey City. You can use an app to find the nearest bike and unlock it using your credit or debit card.

Buses are another great way to get around NYC and offer a scenic view of the city. However, it’s important to note that many of the bus routes can be long and slow. To ensure you’re taking a bus that will stop in the area of your destination, find out the six-digit bus stop code on the sign posted and text that plus the route number to 511123 or visit MTA Bus Time.

Free and Low-Cost Attractions

While some of NYC’s biggest attractions are pricey, there are a number of free or low-cost things to do in the Big Apple. Wander along the High Line, for example – this unique elevated park is free to explore, or join one of the locally-led tours that combine the park with local food and drink haunts.

Alternatively, check out the Brooklyn Bridge, which offers stunning views of Manhattan – for free. And don’t miss out on the chance to ride the famous Staten Island Ferry, which offers skyline views of Lower Manhattan for free (book ahead to avoid lines).

The Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens, is the only museum in the world dedicated to the art, history, technology, and social impact of film and TV – this one is well off the beaten path but certainly worth visiting.

Sign up to a New York City scavenger hunt or themed adventure, which is a fun way to see the sights from a different perspective and meet fellow travelers. Options include a Brooklyn street art scavenger hunt, a superheroes walking tour in Hell’s Kitchen, or an architecture-themed game.

Planning Ahead

When it comes to visiting a new city, a little planning ahead can save you time and money. For example, if you’re planning on going from the Central Park Zoo to Playdate in Queens, it may be more cost-effective for you to take a bus or subway to each location rather than hiring a taxi to do each trip for you. It’s also a good idea to plan your itinerary around the best times to visit NYC. Summertime is the warmest and most vibrant season for NYC, but it’s also the most crowded. Visiting in the spring and fall months can help you avoid crowds and lower prices for attractions.

Another important aspect of planning ahead is tracking your expenses. It’s easy to overspend when traveling, so make sure you write down each item that you spend money on and hold yourself accountable. A bagel here, an entry ticket there can quickly add up.

Lastly, it’s essential to remember that New Yorkers are always in a rush. It might be a stereotype, but it’s also a fact. Be mindful of this when you’re walking through the streets and trying to keep up with locals. If you’re not moving fast enough, people might get impatient and start to walk three-abreast to make space for everyone. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for water from strangers (it’s safe to drink) and bring your own reusable bottle to save on disposable plastic.

Accommodations

A trip to New York City is a dream for many but the big city can be an expensive place to stay. By planning ahead, utilizing the city’s robust public transportation system and looking beyond Manhattan for accommodation can save travelers money while still giving them an authentic NYC experience.

It's also worth considering splitting a hotel room with friends or traveling to one of the many hostels in the city, which are often cheaper and offer more privacy than traditional hotels. Taking advantage of free and low-cost attractions, dining at budget restaurants or packing your own snacks can further cut down on costs.

In Toronto addition to a world-class spa and two signature restaurants, the Aman New York boasts a 65-foot reflective pool, a hair and nail salon, a garden terrace and a jazz club. The less-is-more property features rooms that are a mix of suites, two-bedroom apartments and compact studios. Guests can also enjoy a curated playlist, custom Ojas speakers and amplifiers, and access to an exclusive lounge offering elite-like perks and on-property credits.

Conclusion

From the neon lights of Times Square to symphonic performances at Carnegie Hall, New York City’s pulsating heartbeat is reflected in the city’s world-class museums, Broadway theaters and countless eateries. If you’re a first-time visitor, staying in the heart of Manhattan will put you near many of NYC’s well-known tourist attractions, including the Empire State Building and Central Park.