Traveling to the Big Apple can burn quite a hole in your pocket. Provided you search in the right places, you can find free activities that still maintain the genuine New York atmosphere. But look no further than this page; listed below are seven activities to fill your weekend in the City That Never Sleeps — for free!
Lively Attractions
Sony Wonder Technology Lab
Appropriate for all ages, the Sony Wonder Technology Lab is an ultramodern complex, which offers visitors the rare experience of testing out the latest gadgets and PlayStation games from Sony.
Located mid-town Manhattan
Lab tickets are free, but necessary for entry
For official information, visit: www.sonywondertechlab.com
NBA Store
Equipped with a half-court and frequently visited by NBA stars, the NBA Store is a basketball sanctuary. With two floors of NBA products and apparel, the store has an exhaustive shopping selection. Even if you don’t plan to shop here, it’s worth the visit.
My first time here left me in disbelief at the store’s sizable area. I was taken aback by the numerous flat screens with live action photos and sheer volume of shoes and jerseys — then I realized there was a basketball court and second floor!
Located 590 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
For official information, visit: www.nba.com/nycstore/
Classic Sites & Art
Rockefeller Center
A world-famous icon and filming location for various NBC television shows, be sure not to miss this sight. Tour the perimeter where flags of numerous countries wave, and admire archetypal artwork and sculptures, such as the statue of Atlas.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral and appreciate the exceptional Gothic architecture and prevalent artwork. Enjoy exuberant stained-glass windows, the lavishly designed Stations of the Cross, and meritable sculptures like The Pieta.
I was lucky enough to tour while a mass was ongoing. Between the marble pillars, grand organ, and unified prayers, the experience was awe-inspiring. Located 14 E 51 Street, Manhattan
For service times, visit: www.saintpatrickscathedral.org
Open-Air Activities
Central Park
A peaceful oasis in the heart of a concrete jungle, Central Park is the perfect escape from the city’s boisterous life and sounds. Walk, bike, picnic, read; in whatever you do, you’ll be surrounded by idyllic scenery and lush nature. While here, it’s worth seeing Strawberry Fields, located in Central Park West, near 72 Street. The site commemorates the life of late musician and Beatle, John Lennon.
The first time I visited Strawberry Fields was on June 6, a few years back. I remember coming across a group of people singing John Lennon’s song, “Imagine” in remembrance of his life and death.
Dining and Theater
The Mark Bar
The Mark Bar is a quintessential New York dive bar, which serves pizza and other finger foods. The restaurant’s jukebox provides the music and gives an antiquated vibe. Pizza is served complimentary on any business day after 6 p.m. With a pool table and friendly service, this venue makes for a perfect evening out.
Located 1025 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn
More adult-oriented in the evenings
Shakespeare in the Park
A most prized NYC summer theater event, Shakespeare in the Park has two productions, which occur over a period of five weeks, usually beginning in June. Theatergoers will love these enthusiastically grand productions. Tickets are free and handed out at Delacorte Theatre in Central Park
Productions take place in Delacorte Theatre, located in Central Park West, near 81 Street
Visit the official website for announcements: www.shakespeareinthepark.org
Works Consulted
Sony. Sony Wonder Technology Lab. 2013. 18. October 2013. a. sonywondertechlab.com/.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral. St. Patrick’s Cathedral . 2011. 18. October 2013. a. saintpatrickscathedral.org/visit.php.
Yelp. The Mark Bar. 18. October 2013. a. yelp.com/biz/the-mark-bar-brooklyn.
Shakespeare in the Park. About the Public Theatre. 18. October 2013. a. shakespeareinthepark.org/#!about/cb3i.
Central Park. Shakespeare in the Park. 2013. 18. October 2013. a. centralpark.com/guide/activities/shakespeare-in-the-park.html.