Exploring NYC can get expensive due to the hype and buzz of the popular attractions, Broadway shows, and overrated sites and eats, let alone living here. However, I've realized that there is a lot of things you can spend a part or a whole day away doing free, yes, F-R-E-E!

The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) museum is one of them. There is always something on exhibit and every year there is a display of the graduating class' work. You don't need to be a fashion student or fashionista in anyway to go, and if you are by no means a museum person, this museum is as small as it can get compared to all the other well known ones. As long as you appreciate art and have an interest in seeing one's creativity be brought to life or be educated in having a visual fashion lesson, you can head on over. Their current exhibit is RetroSpective, a showcase of contemporary designs borrowed from the past. 

Governors Island is another fabulous place for an afternoon stroll, group picnic, or some outdoor fellowship. Literally a 5 minute ferry ride away (also free!)  from the Battery Maritime Building not far off from Battery Park from Manhattan, its an easy and fast getaway from the busyness of the city life. Once a military base way back when, it's now a public island filled with historic sites and educational activities for kids and adults, as well as plenty of open space. Saving on the travel and admission costs, consider renting a bike, tandem, or go for some family style cycling with great view of the city's skyline. Take note that it's only open on weekends and certain holidays, but usually packed with special events going on throughout the summer.
Lifesize treehouse in the park

William's Castle
French style carnival rides
I find with such a touristy and diverse city like New York, running into street fairs and celebratory events are quite abundant, like how I shared about the Canada Day celebration and the random street festival I ran into here. This Sunday, Bastille Day (French National Day) will bring forth another street infested celebration along 60th Street filled with crepes, macrons, and fancy Francais culture. Of course shopping and eating will come at a cost, but sometimes there will be free samples or entertainment on the streets for you to enjoy.

Bryant Park at night
We've all heard of Shakespeare in the park, but movie in the park is common as well from Bryant Park to Central Park. Despite the multitude of high rises here, I'm very thankful for the abundance of parks free to public where you can just wind down and socialize with friends and family. I know in the summer months, Bryant Park hosts a free movie every Monday, but go early to grab a good seat or else expect to crowd! If you're a Mariah Carey fan, she will be doing a free concert at the Great Lawn in Central Park tomorrow, say what?!

For more free things to do or details or any of the above, check out this website. I found out about it  through a friend whose interning there, but it's such an informative and up to date place to find all the ins and outs about this ongoing city.


Take the time to plan and enjoy some freebies this weekend!
view from Governors Island