New York City, affectionately known as The Big Apple, is one of the most iconic places to visit in the world, but it’s often associated with sky-high prices, especially when travelling with kids. But fear not, fellow family adventurers! There are plenty of ways to enjoy this amazing city without breaking the bank – it’s something my own family and I did back in February 2024 and we fit in a full family-friendly itinerary without spending a huge amount of money. From free activities to insider tips, we’re going to share how to visit New York with kids on a budget, while keeping everyone in the family entertained and happy.
1. Embrace the Free Activities
One of the best things about New York City is that it’s packed with free activities that both adults and kids will love. Yes, you read that right – FREE! Here are some of our favourite free things to do in the city with children:
Central Park
A trip to Central Park is an absolute must. Not only is it free, but it’s a huge, green haven in the heart of the city, which feels like being in another world once you step off the busy New York streets and into this beautiful space. You can walk, bike or even rent a rowboat on the lake (just be mindful of the rental fee here). There’s also a large playground at the north end of the park near 110th Street, known as the Diana Ross Playground. It’s perfect for letting the kids burn off some energy.
You can also enjoy the Central Park Zoo for a reduced price on certain days, or even simply spend the day exploring the many paths and bridges of Central Park – which offers lots of adventures of it’s own. Don’t forget to stop by Bethesda Terrace for one of the city’s most scenic views!
Free tip: Check out the Central Park Conservancy website for upcoming free events and activities.
The Staten Island Ferry
Looking for a view of Lady Liberty without the cost of a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty? Take the free Staten Island Ferry! The boat offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Kids will love the ride and the chance to get up close to one of the world’s most famous landmarks – for free!
Free tip: Check out the ferry schedule here, and enjoy the 25-minute ride each way.
The High Line
The High Line is a beautifully landscaped park built on a former elevated railway track. It’s not only an amazing space for walking and taking in the views but is also home to various public art installations, gardens and family-friendly events. It’s a great spot to unwind with your little ones while enjoying the beauty of the city.
Check out the High Line website for family-friendly activities and event schedules.
2. Save on Museums with Free Admission Days
New York City is home to some of the best museums in the world, but they can be pretty pricey for families. Luckily, many museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish days, so you can still enjoy their exhibits without breaking the budget.
- American Museum of Natural History – This iconic museum is home to dinosaurs, the famous blue whale, and more! The museum suggests a donation of $23 per adult, but you can pay what you wish on a general admission ticket. Visit on a Wednesday or Saturday to take advantage of the museum’s suggested donation days.
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – MoMA offers free entry on Fridays from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. It’s a great time to explore the impressive collection, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art – The Met has a suggested donation policy, so you can pay what you can afford. It’s a great way to experience one of the world’s finest museums without spending a fortune.
Before visiting, always check the museums’ websites to make sure there are no changes to their free or discounted days.
3. Family-Friendly Budget Eats
Eating out in New York City doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of places where you can grab delicious and affordable meals with the whole family.
- Shake Shack – A New York City institution that’s known for its delicious burgers, fries, and shakes. With locations throughout the city, it’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal without the hefty price tag.
- Joe’s Pizza – If you’re craving authentic New York pizza, Joe’s Pizza is an affordable option that the kids will love. It’s known for its classic, delicious slices and is a local favourite for both tourists and New Yorkers.
- Gray’s Papaya – A must-try for anyone visiting the city on a budget. Grab a hot dog from Gray’s Papaya for just a few dollars – it’s an iconic New York street food experience!
Pro Tip: Check out food trucks and local delis for quick, affordable eats – they often have large portions that are perfect for families.
4. Get Around with a MetroCard
New York’s subway system is the most efficient and cost-effective way to get around the city. Instead of spending money on taxis or rideshares, invest in a MetroCard. A MetroCard offers unlimited 7-day rides for just $33, making it the perfect solution for families who want to explore the city without spending too much on transportation.
Pro Tip: Kids under the age of 44 inches ride the subway for free! So if you’re travelling with younger kids, make sure they don’t miss out on the chance to experience the subway adventure.
5. Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Accommodation in New York City can be expensive, but there are ways to save on your stay.
- Book a Family-Friendly Airbnb – Renting an apartment through Airbnb can be a great way to save on hotel costs. Plus, it gives you the added benefit of having a kitchen to prepare your own meals, which can save a lot of money.
- Budget Hotels with Family Rooms – There are many budget hotels that cater to families, offering spacious rooms at affordable prices. Some popular options include the Holiday Inn Express and Pod 51, which are both centrally located and offer family-friendly amenities.
6. Take Advantage of Discount Passes
If you plan on visiting several attractions in the city, look into purchasing a city pass. The New York CityPASS provides discounted entry to popular attractions like the Empire State Building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Museum of Natural History. It can save you up to 40% off regular admission prices, making it an excellent option for families.
7. Plan Ahead and Book in Advance
Many attractions offer discounts for booking in advance. Take the time to plan your activities and buy tickets online to save time and money. Many popular tourist spots, like the Empire State Building and the One World Observatory, offer discounts for online bookings, and you can often avoid long lines this way too.
8. Go at Quieter Times of the Year
When it comes to visiting New York City, timing is everything. While summer and the holidays are peak tourist seasons in the Big Apple, travelling during quieter months can save you a significant amount of money on accommodation, attractions and air fares. One of the best times to visit on a budget is February.
Why February?
February is one of the least crowded months in New York City, with fewer tourists filling the streets and attractions. This means you won’t have to battle long lines at museums, iconic sites like the Statue of Liberty, or even Broadway shows. In addition, hotels tend to lower their rates during the winter months to attract visitors, which is a big plus for families looking to save money on accommodation.
You can also find discounted tickets to some of the city’s top attractions and events in February. While the weather can be chilly, you’ll save money on outdoor activities and have more flexibility when it comes to planning your day. Plus, February is home to a number of fun events like New York Fashion Week (perfect for fashion-loving families) and Valentine’s Day activities, which can make your trip feel extra special. You may even get to experience New York City in the snow, which is what we got to see during our trip. It was truly magical!
Pro Tip: Keep in mind that February in New York can be quite cold, so be sure to pack accordingly! Layer up and bring warm clothes, scarves, gloves and hats, especially for outdoor excursions like visiting Central Park or walking along the Brooklyn Bridge.
New York City can be an expensive place to visit, but with a little pre-planning and some insider knowledge, you can have an incredible trip with your kids without breaking the bank. Embrace the free attractions, take advantage of discounted tickets and passes and choose budget-friendly accommodations and dining options to make the most of your family trip to the Big Apple. Make sure to take lots and lots of pictures of your trip to save in uk photo books, so that you can all look back at your great adventures from the Big Apple in years to come.
With these tips, you’ll be able to create lasting memories in one of the world’s most exciting cities – all while keeping your wallet happy!
Happy travels and let us know if you have any more budget tips for visiting New York City!
