New York City is a bustling metropolis full of crowds, culture, and international charm. It is one of the most visited cities in the world, but a trip to New York does not come cheap. Tourists shell out millions of dollars each year, contributing to more than 320,000 jobs city-wide. While New York is notorious for its high prices, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a fantastic Manhattan vacation. Here are a few tips for spending less money in New York.
Lodging
The first step to securing cheap lodging in Manhattan is to get off of the big travel websites that market high-priced chain hotels. There are many small, independent lodging options in the city, but you may need to do a little leg-work to find them. The Night Hotel is just a half block from Times Square. Rooms are small, but the décor is stylish, and the beds are comfortable. Prices start at $120 per night. The Pod Hotel is hip convenience at its very best. These rooms are tiny and modern, and the hotel is located on East 51st street, just a block from the river.
Eating
Some of the best meals in New York can be found for under $10. Many of the famous lunch carts around the city offer fantastic deals. Try Apou’s Taste Cart on Liberty Street, or the $5 Lunch Truck on Ann Street. For more sophisticated budget dining, nothing beats a little ethnic flair. A-Wah on Catherine Street serves huge Chinese-inspired meals in clay pots; one meal will serve two diners with ease. The African buffet at B&B Restaurant on 7th Avenue offers braised goat, delicately spiced plantains, and fried vegetables all for under $7.
Places to See
Central Park offers New York’s best spots for people watching. Families will love the open expanses of lawn, free events, and unique playgrounds. The newly created Highline Park was built on an abandoned railroad track and offers fabulous Hudson River and city views. Some of New York’s most popular museums charge a whopping $20 or more per person. Save a bundle and try some of New York’s free artistic sites such as the National Museum of the American Indian, the public art at Rockefeller Center, or the Socrates Sculpture Park.
In addition to the free museums, many attractions offer discounted rates at special times. The American Museum of Natural History is free from 4:45pm to 5:45pm, the Bronx Zoo lets you suggest your own price on Wednesdays, and the Museum of Modern Art is free on Fridays from 4pm to 8pm.
More tips
- New York is a very walkable city. One mile of travel is equal to roughly twenty blocks. You will save a considerable amount of money by walking if you are able.
- The cheapest time to visit the city is after the Christmas holidays and during the heat of summer.
- The village around New York University offers an inexpensive shopping experience in comparison the rest of the city.
When thinking of budget-travel options, New York City may not be the first place that comes to mind, but with a little planning, even this shockingly-expensive metropolis has budget-friendly secrets.
