New York On A Shoestring

New York On A Shoestring

Alamy

Don't miss out on a trip to New York just because you get less dollars to the pound than in recent years. We've put together 10 tips on how to explore one of the world's most exciting cities without emptying your bank account.

Budget hotels and hostels

Do your homework before you book your hotel and look for budget accommodation with a great location. Rooms at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in New York's Soho start from $169 and the hotel's top location makes hopping onto a main subway line a breeze for all that sightseeing. You can also find some very reasonable and decent hostels where you can rent private rooms for a little extra. We found a private double room at Jazz on the Park in the hip Upper West Side for £45 at Hostelbookers.

Before and after

Booking a budget flight is likely to mean you'll be travelling either very early or very late, so you may need to arrange an overnight airport stay. The best value around is with Yotel who offer rooms by 4 hour stay. You pay for the amount of time you've spent in the room instead of being charged a flat fee for the entire night. Prices start at around £29 at Heathrow and Gatwick.

Getting around

You may want to treat yourself and hail the odd yellow cab whilst you're visiting the Big Apple, but it's worth bearing in mind that a one-day fun pass will only set you back a very reasonable $8.50. That will get you access to the subway, buses and the shuttle service that runs between Time Square and Grand Central Station.

Brooklyn Bridge

As free things in New York go, you can't do much better than to take a walk over Brooklyn Bridge. Take the subway from Manhattan to Brooklyn and then walk back to Manhattan over Brooklyn Bridge, taking in that staggering New York city skyline. Keep an eye out for the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

Hot dog stands

Watch the vendors slather on generous helpings of mustard, onions and ketchup before you bite into a classic New York hot dog. As you walk around Manhattan you'll find hot dog stands on almost every corner. A great way to fill up your stomach on a budget.

Free festivals

Grab a free copy of the Village Voice listings guide and look out for free festivals in the city. New York's melting pot of music, film and artistic talent means that there's always plenty going on, with some events offering free entry.

New York Pass

If you want to go sightseeing crazy while you're visiting Uncle Sam, the New York Pass gives you access to over 50 attractions in the city, including the Top of the Rock and the Museum of Modern Art. You can save up to 70% on some attractions with this money-saving pass.

Fifth Avenue

Walking the entire length of Fifth Avenue is a great way to see a slice of Manhattan. It won't cost you a penny and you'll take in the Empire State Building, the Flatiron Building and the Guggenheim Museum, not to mention countless fashion boutiques along the way.

Central Park

Experience New York at a slightly less hectic pace by stepping into Central Park. Take your pick of the 58 miles of footpaths that wind their way through 800 acres of lush green landscape, and watch the hundreds of joggers and dog walkers navigate their way through the park.

Staten Island Ferry

Hop onto this ferry for a free ride from Manhattan to Staten Island, and take in the amazing views of New York Harbour, including the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Another great way to see New York's famous skyline.

Have you been to New York recently? Let us know your tips for getting around the city on a budget.

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