Posted: June 14, 2023

Updated: Oct 10, 2024

Things to do in New York City alone: this is what I looked for when I planned for my first weekend getaway to New York City! Even though I was with a friend, it was our first time and we were looking for solo-ish experiences we could have, for the first time. In this article, I will walk you through free things to do in New York City if you are alone. All these activities are fun, entertaining, and you will get plenty of people around you to feel surrounded and… take your photo! So, put on your walking shoes: we’re exploring all the free things to do in Manhattan, New York City!

Manhattan has a lot of things to do in New York City by yourself. It’s the apple of New York’s eye, and the heart of the Big Apple. One of the most popular boroughs in New York City, Manhattan is loved and acclaimed for its bustling streets, luxurious appeal and for being the home to New York City’s iconic landmarks. Visitors who explore Manhattan know one thing for sure: they will get to see the best things to see and do in New York City. Although visiting Manhattan can be pretty expensive, there are a lot of amazing, free things to do in Manhattan when you are exploring New York city alone.

 From strolling through lush green parks to exploring natural and science museums to embarking on cultural experiences, Manhattan offers an array of budget-friendly options that will leave you with lasting memories without breaking the bank, and that you can do on a short stay if you are trying to make the most of your travel time.

Free Things to do in New York City Alone (Manhattan, New York City)

Spend a day (or an afternoon) at Central Park

Central park is one of the top things to see and do in New York City alone. If you have ever wondered where in New York City is central park, it is in the Manhattan Borough. Central Park is a true oasis amidst the urban landscape of Manhattan. Take a leisurely walk through its sprawling green spaces, picturesque lakes, and enchanting woodlands. Marvel at iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace, Belvedere Castle, and Strawberry Fields, a tribute to John Lennon. Whether you’re picnicking, people-watching, or enjoying a peaceful moment in New York City by yourself, Central Park provides a serene escape from the bustling city streets.

Things to do in Manhattan, New York City alone: Experience Times Square

Times Square is definitely a must do in Manhattan, New York City especially if you are visiting the city for the first time! And don’t worry if you are alone: there are always people at the Time Square! The iconic square is known for its dazzling lights and vibrant atmosphere all day, all night. Immerse yourself in the energy of this iconic location, walk amidst the billboards, and soak in the bustling ambiance. Take a seat on one of the red steps at Duffy Square and watch the vibrant city life unfold before your eyes. This is a must do bucket list experience when visiting New York City (even if you don’t like nightlife), and one of the best free things to see in Manhattan, New York City.

Things to do in New York City alone: Explore Broadway Alley

Venture into the enchanting world of Broadway Alley, a charming pedestrian walkway in the Theater District, located within the iconic New York City Time Square. You can easily walk through Broadway alley during the day and night, and this is why it makes the list of things to do in New York City alone. Absorb the artistic energy of this renowned area, lined with dazzling marquees, bustling theaters, and vibrant street performers. Marvel at the vibrant posters and feel the excitement of the theater district come alive as you stroll along this iconic street. And if you have the time and funds to do so, step in one of the theater to watch a real Broadway show: definitely one of my future bucket list experiences to have in Manhattan, New York City!

Things to do in Manhattan New York City Alone: See the Statue of Liberty 

Whether you are with a group or alone, you can definitely see the statue of Liberty when in New York City. There are a lot of tour companies that offer ferry rides and tours to see the Statue of Liberty in New York City. However, you don’t need to get a ticket if you just want to see Lady Liberty. Here is what to do instead.

Head to Battery Park or the southern tip of Manhattan and enjoy the view of Lady Liberty from a distance. Better yet, take the Staten Island ferry (which runs 24/7 and is free). The Staten Island Ferry takes you from downtown Manhattan to Staten island. It is FREE and is provided by the city of New York itself. 

You take this ferry at the White hall terminal in Manhattan – look it up on Google, you will find it. Super easy. Worse case scenario, ask questions.

This ferry departs every 20-25 minutes.  Now, the goal of this ferry is not to make you see the Statue of Liberty, but to transport people to Staten Island because people live and work there. But while you are on the ferry, you get great views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis island and the New York Harbor front. It’s really beautiful, and it’s one of the best things to do in New York City by yourself. 70 000 people take this ferry every single day. You’ll be one of them, and really, you won’t ever be alone!

While on the ferry, you can get some pretty good photos of Lady Liberty. Once the ferry arrives in Staten Island, you can choose to spend time on the island and explore (as it is one of the 5 boroughs of New York City) or simply stay on board for the return ride to downtown Manhattan.

Things to do in New York City Alone: Walk (safely on the) Brooklyn Bridge 

The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic bridge in New York City that connects the Brooklyn and Manhattan boroughs. There is a lot of history and interesting facts surrounding its genesis, and it is definitely a great stop during your weekend adventure in Manhattan; and one of the best things to do in New York City alone. From the Brooklyn Bridge, you can easily enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, the East River, and the Statue of Liberty (depending on the weather and other factors).

As you stroll along the designated pedestrian path, admire the bridge’s architectural beauty and soak in the bustling energy of the city below. Definitely worth a stop as one of the free things to do in Manhattan, New York City, especially if you are traveling alone. 

Things to do in New York City Alone: Take a Break (or have lunch) at Bryant Park 

Just like Central Park, Bryant Park is one of the popular urban parks downtown Manhattan, and definitely an amazing green space that you can explore. One of my best things to do in New York City alone. It feels like a hidden oasis in the heart of Manhattan, and is definitely worth the stop as one of the free things to see in Manhattan. This vibrant park is always full, and during the summer, it offers a wide range of events and programs to enjoy for both locals and visitors.

Lush greenery, elegant pathways, and cozy seating areas make it even more beautiful and more convenient as a space to rest during the day or enjoy an afternoon lunch. During the warmer months, you can catch free performances, movie screenings, and even join yoga classes. Embrace the tranquility and soak up the lively atmosphere in this urban retreat.

Walk through Grand Central Terminal

Another popular and free thing to do in New York City alone is walking through the Grand Central Terminal. Grand Central terminal is located within the Grand Central Station, which is to New York City what Union Station is to Toronto (one of my favorite Canada travel destinations). You can walk through it on your way to Fifth Avenue when exploring Manhattan. Step into the architectural masterpiece that is Grand Central Terminal. Marvel at the stunning Beaux-Arts design, ornate details, and the famous celestial ceiling in the main concourse (a true beauty for the human eye, and a delight to the architecture lover). Take a leisurely stroll through the terminal, browse the boutiques, and soak in the grandeur of this bustling transportation hub.

Things to do in New York City Alone: Window Shop at Fifth Avenue

You can do real shopping if you plan to, but you can also window-shop if you just want to stick to free things to do in Manhattan, New York City! Fifth avenue is a glamorous and luxury shopping alley in Manhattan, and you can naturally walk through there on your way to the Rockefeller center. And trust me when I tell you this: window shopping is a delightful (and inspiring) experience in itself, and even if you are exploring New York City alone! I enjoyed walking through these stores and seeing what could be possible for my own online, African fashion print and style store. Opulence is in the air when you’re walking on Fifth Avenue: embrace it, soak it, and enjoy it.

Things to do in New York City Alone: Spend a day at the Rockefeller Center & Plaza

The Rockefeller Center & Plaza is pretty close to Fifth Avenue, so very easy to access when walking through Manhattan. If you are looking for simple things to do in New York City alone, a few hours at the Rockefeller plaza should gave you a taste of life at the Big Apple. At the heart of the Rockefeller plaza, stands the famous Prometheus statue (which represents the titan god of fire in Greek mythology). Stroll through the Channel Gardens for a breath of fresh air, or take a pause from a busy shopping day. During the holiday season, the Rockefeller Center transforms with its “ho-ho-ho” so famous Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink. Definitely worth a holiday visit, especially if you are visiting New York city by yourself. I hope I can go there again for the holidays. 

Exploring Manhattan on a beautiful sunny day will truly give you a pretty good idea of what downtown New York City looks like, on a luxurious end. 

Free Things to do in Manhattan New York City Alone: Get Inspired at Wall Street 

We could not end our weekend in Manhattan, New York City without spending a few minutes on Wall Street. Wall Street is considered to be the financial heart of Manhattan, and it is one of the free things to do and see when visiting Manhattan, New York City. Walk alongside towering skyscrapers and let them inspire you. 

Look up the history of Wall Street and see why it made New York City such a strong pillar of financial strength in the world. Take some photos of the different Wall Street signs (we took the 22-51) and if you can find it, admire and snap the Charging Bull sculpture (on the Broadway north end of Wall Street) which is a symbol of financial optimism.

Whilst I was able to indulge in these amazing free activities and sights in Manhattan, here are more activities that I would love to try out (and recommend too) for a next visit to Manhattan, New York City.

Other free things to do in Manhattan, New York City Alone  (on my bucket list for future visits)

Explore The High Line

Built on an old elevated railway track, The High Line is a linear park that offers stunning views of the city skyline, beautifully landscaped gardens, and public art installations. It definitely looks like a relaxing activity to do in New York City alone. Take a leisurely walk, snap some Instagram-worthy photos (yes, they call them that), and indulge in the peaceful atmosphere above the city’s bustling streets.

Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Pay homage to the lives lost during the tragic events of September 11, 2001, by visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. While the museum has an admission fee, the memorial, which consists of two reflecting pools set in the footprint of the Twin Towers, is free to visit. Add this to your list of free things to do in new York City alone. Spend a reflective moment at the memorial, and witness the resilience of the city.

Things to do in New York City Alone: Explore the New York Public Library

I have a huge appreciation for free libraries, and I think this is one of the great free things to do in New York City alone. Step into the magnificent world of literature and architecture by visiting the New York Public Library’s main branch on Fifth Avenue. Marvel at the grandeur of the Rose Main Reading Room, with its stunning chandeliers and ornate ceilings. You can also take a self-guided tour through the library and discover its vast collection of books, historic artifacts, and exhibitions.

Wander through Chinatown and Little Italy

Every major North American city seems to have a “Chinatown” and a “Little Italy” neighborhood. We expect the same for New York City, which is such a global city. So, we are adding this to our list of free things to see in Manhattan, New York City.  Explore the vibrant markets, sample delicious street food, and admire the intricate architecture and colorful storefronts. 

Things to do in Manhattan New York City Alone: Enjoy a Free Museum Day

Several renowned museums in Manhattan offer free admission on specific days or evenings. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) provides free entry on Friday evenings, allowing you to explore its exceptional collection of contemporary art. The Whitney Museum of American Art offers a pay-what-you-wish admission on Friday evenings as well. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to experience world-class art without spending a dime, on your next visit to New York City.

As you can see, you don’t need to break the bank to explore the most luxurious neighborhood in New York City. There are so many amazing things to do in New York City alone. From exploring the vibrant Broadway Alley to catching sight of the Statue of Liberty and walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan New York City is a treasure trove of free attractions. Take time to relax at Bryant Park, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal, and soak in the energy of Wall Street. So, pack your curiosity, put on your walking shoes, and embark on an extraordinary journey through the enchanting streets of Manhattan, where adventure awaits at every turn!