For the budget conscious person, New York City is the ultimate destination. Sure, New York has earned its reputation for being an expensive city. However, if you watch your wallet and are smart about spending your money, you can actually experience New York City for free, or close to free! Pick up a tourist pamphlet and choose from a huge variety of free and cheap attractions. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one major draw that is free, with only a requested donation upon entry. This is true of many of the city’s amazing museums. There are also free arts and culture events year round in the city. For example, you can catch free concerts in many NYC parks over the summer as part of the city’s Summer Stage. Or you can walk around downtown and enjoy free entry to any of the great small art galleries. We can’t forget Central Park, the High Line, and the Ferry cruises around the city as free, or nearly free activities you can enjoy in New York. If you want a tour of New York, look for a volunteer tour guide instead of going with a costly tour company, often, the free tours are better!