NYC is one of the most expensive places to visit, but you should not let this deter you from going. Here are some tips that will come in handy when visiting NYC on a budget:
Take to the Water
Despite stories of unlucky tourists paying extravagant rates for ferry rides, the Staten Island ferry has been free from 1997. When you take it, you will see the southern tip of Manhattan from a completely different vantage view. You should consider taking the Ikea ferry on weekends because it is free then – it runs from Wall Street to Red Hook, Brooklyn.
Cheap Accommodation
The cost of accommodation in NYC can be high, especially if you want to stay in five star hotels with a view. If you avoid Manhattan, you can find some affordable accommodation, such as Airbnb. However, you will still have to fork out hundred dollars a night if you choose budget accommodations such as apartments.
The best way to save on money is by staying with someone you know. If you have a family friend who lives in New York, it would be a good idea to contact him or her before your trip.
Dining Out
If you want to have the classic American dining experience, you should head to Waverly Restaurant, where you can get a burger for eight dollars. If you factor in the compulsory 15 to 20 percent tip, eating at New York restaurants can be quite expensive. If you want an affordable meal, you need to get out of Manhattan and head to Queens or the Bronx.
Get on the Roof
Although NYC looks best when seen from above, observation decks will set you back a pretty penny. To avoid paying exorbitant rates for free views, you should head to a rooftop bar and sip a few drinks while enjoying the magnificent views of New York. For the best views, head to the Meatpacking District and look for the Standard Hotel – it overlooks the Hudson River. From here you can also see the variety of buildings and architecture that NYC has to offer.
Visit the Parks
If you want to surround yourself with nature, make sure that you visit Central Park. This vast park is 840 acres in size and includes sports fields, a zoo, and a boating lake. If you want to see the park in its entirety, you should consider tours & cheap bike rentals. With a bike, you can see the park in all its splendor without getting tired.
You can also head to the High Line, which is slowly becoming one of the most famous New York attractions. It provides a serene respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, and you get to stroll among the beautiful meadow plants.
Get Some Exercise
In the heat of summer, the Big Apple opens several outdoor swimming pools in all five boroughs. If swimming in a public swimming pool is not your thing, you should consider renting a bike and cycling around as you see the sights. The most scenic route to cycle is on the path that runs along the Hudson River and the whole west side of Manhattan.
Cross the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is easily one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The cycling and pedestrian paths are elevated, so you do not have to worry about getting hit. However, you should be careful because the bicycles are more dangerous and can knock you down.
The bridge can be a bit busy because tourists tend to stop everywhere for photos, so walking from one end to the other might take longer than you think. However, if you do not mind this, you will love it.
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