It’s true. Life is expensive in New York, but there are also plenty of free things. Here is a selection of summer activities that will cost you the head to toto.
Kayaking with a great view
In 2022, we throw ourselves into the water. That’s good, there are a lot of them in New York. Several local associations provide kayaks for sailing on the East River and the Hudson: the Brooklyn Bridge Boathouse (on reservation), North Brooklyn Community Boathouse at Greenpoint, Downtown Boathouse in Chelsea (above) and Governors Island… Donations are encouraged.
Lose pounds, not dollars
Zumba, dance, stretching or yoga… There is something for everyone and all ages. As part of its Shape Up NYC program, New York City offers fitness classes that are free and open to everyone. No need to be a member of a recreation center operated by the Department of Parks. All you have to do is register, come with an ID and a padlock. More info here
A movie under the stars
Spent too much time watching movies from your couch? It’s time to get out. Each summer, several screenings take place in city parks and playgrounds. “Hairspray”, “Spiderman: No Way Home”, “Space Jam”… Young and old will love the 2022 vintage. For Francophiles, note the return of Films on the Green, the film festival dedicated to French films. It lasts until September. Upcoming films: “Touchez pas au Grisbi” on Friday July 1 at Tompkins Square Park, “Balzac and the Little Chinese Tailor” on Friday July 8 at Seward Park, “La Fièvre monte à El Pao” on Wednesday July 13 at J. Hood Wright Park, “Between the Walls” on Friday July 15th again at Seward Park, and many more… All the program is here
Hudson Yards concerts
This is one of the novelties of this summer: the launch of free concerts every Wednesday at Hudson Yards, in the west of Manhattan. Dedicated to emerging artists, they will take place at 6pm until Wednesday August 3rd. These concerts complement the programming of Backyard at Hudson Yards, an initiative that offers the public screenings of films, broadcasts of sporting events on the big screen, outdoor fitness activities and entertainment for children. More info here
Discover a museum in the Bronx
There are many free museums in New York. Take the opportunity to discover a cultural and artistic institution that you may not know about: the Bronx Museum of the Arts (BMA), dedicated to artists and the very rich art from the northern borough. Until September 2022, admire the street photographs of Jamel Shabazz, veritable odes to the beauty of outer boroughs and their inhabitants. More info here
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