NYC showcasing free and low-cost activities to explore this summer

NYC Tourism + Conventions is inviting visitors and locals to explore free and low-cost activities across the city’s five boroughs.

“As we usher in the warmer months, we’re so pleased to invite visitors and locals to enjoy a plethora of free and low-cost activities—including world-class arts and culture, historic events and anniversaries, and more—which can only be found right here in New York City this summer,” said Julie Coker, President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions.

Below is a selection of free and affordable activities in NYC this summer:

Arts, culture performances:

• The Frick Collection recently reopened following a $220 million renovation, which included restoration of the first-floor galleries and public access to the historic mansion’s second floor for the first time. The museum offers pay-what-you-wish admission on Wednesdays from 2–6pm, and children ages 10–18 can always visit for free.
• The Whitney Museum of American Art is currently celebrating 10 years in the Meatpacking District. In addition to the museum’s ongoing free programming, visitors can enjoy a series of free Pride activities and events throughout the month of June, including a history walking tour, performances, a Radical Joy Ball and more.
• Renowned French sculptor Michel Bassompierre recently unveiled Fragile Giants in Manhattan’s Murray Hill neighborhood. Nine giant animal sculptures can be viewed along Park Avenue between 34th and 38th Streets, through next May.
• A new free performing arts series, the Sugar Sugar Festival is coming to Brooklyn’s Domino Square from June 4–28. Performances will include everything from theater and dance to comedy and puppetry.
• Lower Manhattan’s Perelman Performing Arts Center presents Free Music at PACNYC. See free performances in the lobby stage through June 28 and join the first annual Family Day on July 12 for music, workshops, food and more.
• As part of BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!—NYC’s longest-running, free, outdoor performing arts festival—on July 26 visitors can watch a screening of THE WIZ, as a special tribute to the late Quincy Jones.

Only-in-NYC history:

• In 2025, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is celebrating 100 years since its founding. On June 14, the Schomburg Centennial Festival in Harlem will feature author talks, live music, a block party, a marketplace, kids’ activities and more.
• Beginning this summer, Circle Line is offering deals in honor of its 80th anniversary. Guests also turning 80 years old in 2025 can take a complimentary sightseeing cruise as part of the “Born in 1945” program throughout the year; in addition, on June 14, Circle Line will offer a ticket price of $2.50 (the same fare as it was in 1945) for the Best of NYC cruise.
• As part of Brooklyn Bridge Park’s 15th anniversary programming, free and low-cost events will take place in the waterfront park through October. Highlights include a performance by the Metropolitan Opera, public art, waterfront workout classes, kayaking, the 25th anniversary of Movies with a View and more.
• In addition to the NYC Pride March on June 29—one of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ Pride marches—local celebrations will take place across Staten Island (May 31), Queens (June 1), Brooklyn (June 14) and the Bronx (June 21).
• The first-ever FIFA Club World Cup will take place this June and July with matches across the US including the New York/New Jersey region. Even if visitors don’t have tickets, check out this list of NYC bars and restaurants where you can watch soccer.
• Did you know: New York City is home to the world’s first Restaurant Week. The summer edition of NYC Restaurant Week® returns July 21–August 17 for the 33rd year with prix-fixe menus at hundreds of restaurants across the five boroughs. Mark your calendars for reservations opening July 15.
• For those looking to take home a piece of history as a souvenir, consider shopping secondhand at some of the best flea markets, vintage stores and thrift shops in NYC.

Outdoor fun:

• Kick off summer on the Bronx River with a free, family-friendly community paddling event on June 21. Visitors can also explore the Bronx River Greenway’s trails, parks and riverways.
• Head to The Rockaways for swimming, surfing and boardwalk activities. Rockaway Beach—made famous by the Ramones’ 1977 hit song—is accessible by the A subway line (just $2.90 one way) and NYC Ferry ($4 one way). Also grab a bite at Tacoway Beach while you’re in the area.
• Jump on the free Staten Island Ferry and bring the kids to a Staten Island FerryHawks minor league baseball game this summer. For $105, the Family Fun Four Pack includes four FerryHawks tickets and two souvenir FerryHawks helmets filled with Nathan’s hot dogs, chicken tenders, French fries, nonalcoholic drinks and more.
• The NYC Parks department presents Summer on the Hudson, a free outdoor arts and culture festival in Riverside Park. Spanning 59th Street to 153rd Street, the annual festival features concerts, performances, wellness activities and more for the whole family. Check out the 2025 schedule here.

In 2024, New York City welcomed 64.5 million travellers, generating an estimated economic impact of $79 billion, including more than $51 billion in direct spending by travellers, and supported over 388,000 leisure and hospitality jobs.

For more ways to save on your next trip to New York City, visit nyctourism.com/budget.