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Top 11 Things to Do in NYC on a Student Budget

Being a student at Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ means you’ll have easy access to one of the country’s most exciting cities — New York City. If you’re searching for something to do, just hop on a short train ride and get ready to take on the city that never sleeps. In this blog, we've got the ultimate guide to exploring NYC on a student budget, from hidden gems and free attractions to budget-friendly activities and the best student discounts. Time to make the most of the Big Apple without emptying your wallets.

Top 11 things to do in NYC on a student budget

When you attend Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ, you’ll have the opportunity to explore fun and exciting things right around campus as well as right over the river. Check out this guide filled with free attractions, affordable museums, budget-friendly activities, and student discounts that will help you make unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.

1. Take a stroll in Central Park

A trip to NYC would be incomplete without wandering through the beautiful Central Park. Central Park is a vast green oasis in the heart of Manhattan, offering free entry and a range of activities. Regardless of what time of year you go, there will always be something to do. Come during the summer, then come back in the winter to . You can stroll along the paths, have a picnic, visit the famous Strawberry Fields, or rent a bike for an affordable way to explore the park.

2. Visit the museums

Step into a captivating world of art, history, and culture as you wander through the . Many museums in the city have specific days or times when admission is free, discounted for students, or offered on a pay-what-you-wish basis. Some popular museums with free or discounted entry options include the , the , and the .You can also check out some of the unique exhibits such as the and the .

3. Walk the High Line

The is an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. It offers beautiful views of the city, art installations, gardens, and seating areas. Walking the High Line is free, and it's a great way to experience the city from a unique perspective. Take a step away from the concrete jungle and into an oasis of greenery as you walk through gardens and grab a bite to eat with friends. Not only is the High Line a beautiful place to visit, but it is also environmentally sustainable as it repurposes industrial infrastructure into an extraordinary public space. The High Line is a must-visit attraction in NYC!

4. Explore Times Square

Times Square is a bustling hub of lights, billboards, and entertainment. You can wander through the area, take in the sights, and people-watch without spending any money. Or, you could rent a bike at one of NYC’s bike rental stops and cruise along the buzzing streets. Only have two days to spend in NYC? The will take you to the best, most infamous spots around New York, allowing you to get the most of the city that never sleeps.

5. Enjoy street food

New York City is famous for its street food culture. You can find delicious and affordable options like hot dogs, pretzels, falafel, and more from food carts and trucks scattered throughout the city. Grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor can save you money while allowing you to savor the local cuisine. Grab a classic slice of New York pizza or try something new from different . You’re bound to find something you enjoy.

6. See a Broadway show

Catch a show on and watch iconic shows, from Wicked to Hamilton to Six: The Musical. Broadway is well-known all across the world and is at the center of the American theater industry. Share laughs, cry at heartfelt scenes, and sing along to catchy songs. You could experience the wonderful world of Broadway with ticket discounts from or .

7. Take a Staten Island Ferry ride

The offers beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, New York Harbor, and the Manhattan skyline. The ferry ride is free, and it provides a unique perspective of the city's iconic landmarks. A fun ride from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island, the Staten Island Ferry is a 25 minute one-stop shop for a handful of New York City wonders.

8. Check out the Chelsea Art Galleries

Chelsea is known for its vibrant art scene, and you can explore numerous art galleries without paying an admission fee. It's a great way to experience contemporary art and discover emerging artists. Chelsea has a wide range of art galleries that showcase everything from paintings and sculptures to photography and multimedia installations. Visit the for an updated list of New York’s leading artists, exhibition openings, and events.

9. Explore Chinatown and Little Italy

These neighborhoods offer a vibrant atmosphere and a chance to experience different cultures. You can wander through the streets, visit local markets, and sample affordable and delicious ethnic food. Both Chinatown and Little Italy host various cultural festivals, such as the and Little Italy’s . Stay up to date on these lively events and immerse yourself in traditional food, art, music, and dance.

10. Attend free events

NYC is known for its diverse range of free events and performances. Keep an eye out for concerts, art exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural festivals that offer free or discounted entry. Websites like , , and can be helpful in finding these events.

11. Experience TV live and upfront

Did you know you could attend live talk shows and comedy shows for free? Instead of watching your favorite show on TV, you get the chance to watch it live and upfront. Have a laugh among the crowd at Saturday Night Live or at The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. You can on a first come first serve basis for a variety of famous shows, such as American Ninja Warrior, America’s Got Talent, and The Voice.

Experience The Big Apple as an Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ student

Take advantage of Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ’s close proximity to New York City. As an Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ student, there are a number of entertaining activities to experience in NYC at a discount and even for free! If you’re not already an Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ student, apply now and make the most of being a student in the city. Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ has quick and easy access to Penn Station via the Newark light rail. Go here for more information on Â鶹³ÉÈË°æ’s public transportation.

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