Exploring New York on a Shoestring Budget

  • Day 1: Brooklyn Bridge Park
    15 minutes (3 miles) from Times Square

    Start your New York adventure with a visit to Brooklyn Bridge Park. This 85-acre park offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, and also has several walking and biking paths, sports facilities, and playgrounds. You can also relax and have a picnic while soaking in the views.

  • Day 2: Times Square and Central Park
    30 minutes (3 miles) from Brooklyn Bridge Park

    A visit to New York is incomplete without a visit to Times Square, the bustling commercial and entertainment hub of the city. From there, head to Central Park, one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. This sprawling urban park has lakes, gardens, walking paths, playgrounds, and even a zoo.

  • Day 3: The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Empire State Building
    30 minutes (3 miles) from Central Park

    The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers. This expansive museum has over two million works of art from around the world, ranging from ancient times to modern day. Next, head to the Empire State Building and enjoy stunning views of the city from the observation deck.

  • Day 4: Statue of Liberty and 9/11 Memorial
    1 hour (5 miles) from Empire State Building

    Visit the iconic Statue of Liberty and learn about its fascinating history. You can take a ferry to Liberty Island and also visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. In the afternoon, head to the 9/11 Memorial to pay homage to the victims of the terrorist attacks of 2001.

  • Day 5: High Line Park and Chelsea Market
    30 minutes (2 miles) from 9/11 Memorial

    End your trip with a visit to the High Line Park, a unique urban park built on an old elevated freight rail line. It offers stunning views of the city and also has several art installations and food vendors. Next, head to Chelsea Market, a popular indoor food hall, and shopping destination.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Brooklyn Bridge Park (2 hours, free)
  • Times Square and Central Park (4 hours, free)
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Empire State Building (6 hours, $68)
  • Statue of Liberty and 9/11 Memorial (6 hour, $37)
  • High Line Park and Chelsea Market (4 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $105

Transportation

New York has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and subway trains. A MetroCard can be purchased for $33 for a week of unlimited rides. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but can add up quickly. Frequent walking is recommended to save travel costs and see the city up close.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Bronx Zoo, the New York Botanical Garden, or the Brooklyn Museum. If you have less time, consider skipping the Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 Memorial to focus on other landmarks in the city. Additionally, visiting popular attractions early in the day or on weekdays can help avoid crowds.

Airports

New York has three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). JFK is the largest and busiest airport and is located 16 miles southeast of Manhattan. LGA is located 8 miles northeast of Manhattan, and EWR is located 16 miles southwest of Manhattan.

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