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15 AMAZING FREE THINGS TO DO IN NEW YORK CITY

New York City, with its lively streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant food scene, is as diverse as it is exciting. While it’s known for being expensive, especially when trying to experience everything the city has to offer, there are plenty of amazing free things to do if you plan wisely.

Sure, NYC boasts high-end restaurants and trendy bars where you can spend the night indulging, but not everything has to come with a hefty price tag!

If you’re looking to explore the city without breaking the bank, here are some of the best free activities you can enjoy. And if you’re up for a little adventure, don’t miss out on NYC’s hidden gems, perfect for those who want to discover unique spots off the beaten path. Check out these free attractions and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

Coney Island

Situated south of Brooklyn, right next to the New York Aquarium, you’ll find Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk. With almost 3 miles (4.8 km) of sandy shores to wander along, visitors can take a leisurely stroll while soaking up the sights and sounds of Coney Island – and maybe treat themselves to some classic saltwater taffy along the way. It’s truly one of the best free activities in New York, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and fun!

Chrysler Building

One of New York’s most iconic skyscrapers, and a personal favorite of mine, is the Chrysler Building. Located in Midtown East, it’s a stunning example of Art Deco architecture.

What’s even better is that you can explore the lobby for free. While the rest of the building is off-limits to the public, the lobby offers a glimpse into its period decor. With its striking red Moroccan marble walls and elegant Art Deco light fixtures, the lobby is a must-see. It’s open to the public Monday through Friday, from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, making it an easy addition to any NYC itinerary.

Staten Island Ferry

While typical ferry tours to Staten Island cost around $12, the Staten Island Ferry is completely free! Primarily used by commuters, the ferry is open to everyone and offers a scenic ride across New York Harbor. Operating since 1905, this ferry provides a budget-friendly way to enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

Once you’ve explored Staten Island, you can hop back on the ferry for another free ride to Manhattan, making it a fantastic way to see some of New York’s most iconic sights without spending a dime. Plus, the money you save can be put toward sampling some of the city’s best doughnuts!

Walk The High Line

One of New York’s most iconic walkways, the High Line, is a stunning elevated park that sits 30 feet above ground, built on a disused metro line. It connects the Meatpacking District to the Javits Convention Center.

This 1.45-mile (2.3 km) long path, adorned with lush greenery, offers breathtaking views as it winds through Manhattan’s West Side. If you’re interested in learning more about the park’s history, free public tours are available, and you’ll encounter various public art installations along the route.

Walking the High Line is truly one of the best free things to do in New York, blending nature, art, and history in a unique urban setting.

Spot the NYC Parakeets at Green-Wood Cemetery

While it may sound a bit eerie, Green-Wood Cemetery is one of NYC’s National Historic Landmarks, covering an impressive 478 acres of hills and valleys in Brooklyn. Beyond being a cemetery, it’s also a fantastic spot for bird-watching. Over the years, parakeets have made this serene place their home, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for these colorful birds. Take your time to enjoy the entire neighborhood, as it offers a unique blend of history, nature, and tranquility.

Central Park Conservancy Festival

Film enthusiasts, rejoice! The Central Park Conservancy Film Festival takes place in Central Park during the summer months. Classic films are screened near the Sheep Meadow (minus the sheep), providing a picturesque outdoor setting. Each screening features a live DJ performance before the film begins, adding to the festive atmosphere. Gates open at 6:30 pm, with the movie starting at 8:00 pm, making it a perfect evening outing under the stars. Don’t miss this charming experience!

Bryant Park Summer Film Festival

Each summer, HBO hosts a free film festival in Bryant Park, welcoming everyone to join in on the fun. Film screenings take place from June through August at 5:00 pm every Monday. Arriving early is a must, as seats fill up quickly! The selected movies are often nostalgic and come with meaningful context, which will be shared during the event. It’s truly one of the best free activities in New York, especially on a warm summer evening, providing a perfect blend of entertainment and atmosphere.

Visit the Vessel

Situated in Hudson Yards, the Vessel is one of the newest attractions in New York and easily ranks among the best free things to do during a long weekend visit. Tickets to ascend the Vessel are completely free, but they can go quickly, so be sure to check the website for the latest availability. This unique architectural marvel offers stunning views and a fantastic opportunity for memorable photos!

Catch Some Comedy

If you love comedy and are a fan of Seth Meyers, you’ll be thrilled to know that you can attend live recordings of his show for FREE! NBC’s “Late Night” offers tickets to visitors in New York City, but there’s a catch: you’ll need to book four to six weeks in advance to secure your spot. Keep in mind that attendees must be at least 16 years old, and only groups of four or fewer are permitted. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a night of laughs while experiencing a live taping!

Greenwich Village

For those looking to explore the bohemian streets of Greenwich Village, there are two fantastic free options available.

The Village Alliance offers a section on their website for self-guided tours, categorized by various interest areas such as art and architecture, cultural heritage, film, food and drink, and more.

Additionally, they provide free guided tours every Saturday from June through September. These tours meet rain or shine (so be sure to pack an umbrella!) at 11:30 am outside 130 Second Avenue and last approximately 90 minutes. It’s a great way to soak in the history and charm of the neighborhood!

Visit like a local

Have you always dreamed of a personalized tour of New York City from a local’s perspective but didn’t want to spend a fortune? Look no further than Big Apple Greeter, a volunteer-based visitor service designed for tourists.

All volunteers are native New Yorkers, and many are multilingual, so you’re likely to find someone who speaks your language. Simply sign up and request the areas of New York City you’d like to explore, whether it’s a specific neighborhood or some of the city’s hidden gems.

As long as there’s an available volunteer, your tour is completely free! Just remember, a little stop for coffee and cake is always appreciated!

Central Park

What could be more free than strolling through one of the world’s most famous urban parks? Central Park is incredibly vast, and while you won’t get too lost, navigating the hundreds of walkways and promenades can be a delightful challenge (especially if you’re anything like me!).

Each day, you can download free walking guides online to explore the park at your own pace. Be sure to stop by Bethesda Fountain and take some time to wander around Belvedere Castle. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the beauty and serenity of this iconic park!

American Folk Art Museum

If you’re looking for a museum that offers free admission every day of the year (without the hassle of specific slots or times), head straight to the American Folk Art Museum. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about folk art and its significance in the USA. Admission is always free, so you can take your time getting there and truly enjoy the stunning artwork inside. Just keep in mind that weekends can get particularly busy, so plan accordingly for a more relaxed experience!

New York Aquarium

Fridays are popular for freebies in NYC, but did you know that Wednesdays have a special offer too? If you’re eager to see seals, sea lions, and walruses, you’re in luck! The New York Aquarium offers free admission every Wednesday from 3:00 pm until closing. This little-known time slot allows you to explore the aquarium at no cost. While entry is free, donations are welcome if you’d like to contribute. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy marine life without spending a dime!

MoMA’s Sculpture Garden

If you’re an art enthusiast, you probably know about MoMA—the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan, which is hailed as one of the best art museums globally. The great news is that on Friday afternoons, entry is completely free!

From 4:00 to 8:00 PM every Friday, visitors can explore the museum without spending a dime. However, be prepared for long lines, particularly early on; they tend to shorten after 6 PM, but this means you might have less time to enjoy the exhibits, so it’s wise to plan your visit accordingly.

If you’re not in NYC on a Friday, don’t fret! MoMA also offers a beautiful outdoor space, the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden, which is open to the public for free every day from 9:00 to 10:15 AM. This serene area features various artworks and sculptures, providing a peaceful environment that many visitors overlook.

For more details, you can check out the information on MoMA here.

CONCLUSION

New York City, a bustling metropolis that never sleeps, offers a plethora of exciting experiences, many of which won’t cost you a dime. From immersing yourself in art and culture at world-class museums to exploring iconic landmarks like Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By taking advantage of these free activities, you can fully experience the vibrant energy and diverse attractions that make NYC a truly unforgettable destination.

Is Body Sculpting Permanent?

If you’re considering body sculpting, you might be wondering if the results are permanent. After all, undergoing a procedure like liposuction or CoolSculpting is an investment in your appearance and you want to know that it’s worth it. Continue reading to discover the world of body sculpting and explore whether the results are truly permanent.

Understanding Body Sculpting

Body sculpting refers to any non-surgical or surgical procedures that aim to reduce stubborn fat and contour the body. Some common examples include:

  • Liposuction
  • CoolSculpting
  • Laser lipolysis
  • SculpSure
  • Ultrasonic cavitation

Each of these procedures works differently, but they all have the same goal: to eliminate unwanted fat from specific areas of the body.

How Permanent Are the Results?

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: are the results of body sculpting permanent? The answer is…it depends.

Liposuction

This surgical procedure involves making small incisions in the skin and using a cannula to suction out fat cells. The results of liposuction can be long-lasting, but it’s important to note that the remaining fat cells in the area can still expand if you gain weight. That means that while liposuction is not a weight loss solution, it can provide significant improvements in body contour that can last for years.

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting, also known as cryolipolysis, uses cold temperatures to freeze and destroy fat cells. Once those cells are eliminated by the body’s natural processes, they’re gone for good. Yet, like with liposuction, remaining fat cells in the area can still expand if you gain weight. 

Laser Lipolysis

Laser lipolysis uses laser energy to heat and rupture fat cells, which are then eliminated by the body. Like with liposuction and CoolSculpting, remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain weight. However, because laser lipolysis is less invasive than liposuction, it typically has a shorter recovery time and less scarring.

SculpSure

SculpSure uses laser energy to heat and destroy fat cells. The results are similar to those of laser lipolysis, with the added benefit of being able to treat multiple areas at once. Again, remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain weight.

Ultrasonic Cavitation

Finally, ultrasonic cavitation uses low-frequency sound waves to rupture fat cells, which are then eliminated by the body. 

So, all the results are not necessarily permanent if you don’t maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Factors That Affect the Results

Now that we know the basics of how different body sculpting procedures work, let’s look at some factors that can affect the longevity of the results.

Weight Fluctuations

As we’ve mentioned, if you gain weight after undergoing body sculpting, the remaining fat cells in the treated area can still expand. That means that maintaining a stable weight is crucial for ensuring long-lasting results.

Age

Unfortunately, as we get older, our bodies have a harder time eliminating fat cells. That means that the results of body sculpting procedures may not be as long-lasting for older patients.

Genetics

Finally, your genetics can play a role in how long the results of body sculpting last. Some people are simply more prone to gaining weight in certain areas, regardless of their lifestyle habits.

Tips for Maintaining Your Body Contouring Results

Body contouring procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks, and thigh lifts can help you achieve the body shape you desire. However, maintaining the results of these procedures requires effort and commitment. Here are some tips for maintaining your body contouring results:

Follow a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients can help you maintain your body contouring results. Focus on eating lean protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and snacks high in saturated and trans fats.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential to maintaining your body contouring results. Water helps hydrate your skin, flushes out toxins, and aids in digestion. Aim to drink at least eight cups of water per day.

Engage in Regular Exercise: Regular exercise is crucial to keeping your new body shape after body contouring. Incorporate both cardio and strength training exercises into your routine to maintain muscle tone, burn calories, and improve overall health.

Get Enough Sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining your body contouring results. Lack of sleep can cause weight gain, increase stress levels, and lead to poor food choices. Aim to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night.

Wear Compression Garments: Wearing compression garments can help support your body during the recovery period and maintain the results of your body contouring procedure. Consult with your surgeon about the appropriate compression garment for your specific procedure.

Maintain a Stable Weight: Maintaining a stable weight is essential to keeping your body contouring results. Significant weight gain or loss can affect your body’s contours and undo your surgery’s effects. To maintain your weight, eat a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and avoid crash diets.

Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon is essential to maintaining your body contouring results. Your surgeon can monitor your progress and address any concerns or issues that may arise.

Conclusion

So, is body sculpting permanent? The answer is not a simple yes or no. While the results of procedures like liposuction and CoolSculpting can be long-lasting, they’re not necessarily permanent if you don’t maintain a healthy lifestyle. That said, body sculpting can be an effective way to contour your body and boost your confidence, as long as you go into it with realistic expectations and understand that maintaining your results will require some effort on your part.