New York City with its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and world-famous attractions is at the top of many people’s travel bucket lists. However, the city’s reputation for high prices can be daunting for families on a strict budget.
But don’t worry, this guide is here to help. If you’re dreaming of exploring the City that Never Sleeps with your family, we’ve got you covered with lots of tips and advice on exploring the city without breaking the bank.
Where to Stay in NYC
Finding the right place to stay is key to any trip, but even more so when you’re trying to keep costs down. Your first instinct when planning a trip to New York may be to look for hotels in Manhattan, but instead think of looking in other neighborhoods. These will provide you and your family with more budget-friendly options and they’re usually quieter and more family-friendly.
For cheap hotels in NYC, consider some of the following neighborhoods:
- Long Island City (Queens): Just one subway stop away from Midtown Manhattan, this area is great for families looking for cheaper accommodation while still being close to all the action. There are plenty of budget-friendly hotels like the Boro Hotel and the Hyatt Place Long Island City and, as it’s a quieter neighborhood, it can be a great place to unwind after a hectic day exploring the city.
- Williamsburg (Brooklyn): This is another great option if you’re looking for cheaper accommodation. With hotels like the Wythe and Hotel Le Jolie, you will definitely be able to find something that fits your budget. It’s also only a 25-30 minute subway ride to Manhattan, so you’ll still be close to all the major attractions.
- Astoria (Queens): Like Brooklyn and Long Island City, Astoria is well-connected and not too far from Manhattan via the subway — you can even catch the ferry for a more scenic journey. There is plenty of accommodation to suit all budgets, as well as a wide range of family-friendly restaurants in the area.
Top Tip: Consider a vacation rental to lower costs even further or look for family rooms in hostels like HI New York Hostel. These give you the option to prepare your own food and can provide a unique vacation experience.
How to Eat Well
New York is famous for its wide variety of culinary delights, and it definitely doesn’t disappoint! You can find everything from pizza and tacos, to chow mein and cheesecake and it also doesn’t need to break the bank.
For a classic slice of New York-style pizza try one of the following options:
- 2 Bros. Pizza
- Joe’s Pizza
- Sofia Pizza Shoppe
You can also throw yourself into the vibrant street food culture that offers a diverse range of food at reasonable prices. Some of the best options include:
- Birria Landia for tacos
- The Halal Guys for Middle Eastern dishes
- Wafels & Dinges for Belgian waffles
You could also visit food halls like the Chelsea Market or Urbanspace. You can find reasonably priced food and, as an added bonus, everyone can choose their own meal.
Top Tip: Try to dine during happy hour as many places offer discounts and offers during this time, making it a great way to save some money.
Free and Low-Cost Attractions
NYC is brimming with exciting attractions and world-famous sights, and the good thing is that many of them are free or don’t cost a lot.
First among these is Central Park. An iconic New York location, it’s a must-see for families looking for a fun way to spend the day. You can enjoy a picnic, visit one of the many playgrounds, and explore the beautiful gardens all for free! For a small cost you could visit the Central Park Zoo or rent a rowboat on the lake.
To learn more about the city and see its main sights, join one of the many free walking tours. These are a great way to explore and discover hidden gems and different neighbourhoods. You can also take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning views and a great family photo opportunity.
Top Tip: If you want to explore some of the many museums, take advantage of the free or pay-what-you-wish admission that many offer on certain days or times. For example, the American Museum of Natural History has free admission during the last hour of the day.
Discount Passes & Tickets
If there are lots of attractions you and your family are dying to visit, but you’re concerned about sticking to your budget, think about purchasing a discount pass. The CityPASS and the New York Pass provide access to some of the main attractions at a considerable discount compared to paying for them one by one.
There are also some great discounts available on shows and events. For example, you can get heavily discounted rush tickets on the day of a performance or try your luck with digital lotteries for shows like The Lion King or Aladdin.
For free events, take a look at Eventbrite and NYC for Free. You’ll be able to find plenty of free family-friendly events taking place around the city.
Traveling Around the City
If you’re watching your spending, then there is no better way to explore New York than on foot. It’s a great way to discover new sights and soak up the vibrant city atmosphere. The main attractions are also fairly close together, just bring a stroller for younger kids and schedule plenty of breaks to rest tired legs.
However, if you can’t walk everywhere you want to go, the subway and bus system are affordable ways to get around. Take the time to download a subway map and get a 7-day MetroCard for unlimited rides on the buses and subways.
Top Tip: Consider renting a Citi Bike for a fun and economical way to explore the city.
Final Thoughts
A vacation in New York City can be the trip of a lifetime and with some careful planning doesn’t need to break the bank. So, pack your bags, grab your MetroCard, and get ready to make some fantastic memories!
