Whether you want to visit one of the world’s top museums, grab a bite to eat, or catch a Broadway show, the city that never sleeps will also never let go of your wallet. It’s easy to blow through your budget here in a “New York minute” if you’re not careful.

More New York tips:
• The best budget hotels in New York City
• 10 easy ways to save on a trip to the Big Apple
• The best cheap eats near Times Square

How to visit New York on a budget

But don’t cancel your vacation plans or scream, “Fuhgeddaboudit!” just yet. Along with all of the high-priced pleasures also come plenty of low-cost fun. In fact, despite the city’s reputation of prices as high as the Chrysler Building, if you plan your trip right, New York can be a very affordable vacation destination.

And that’s where we come in. Although EuroCheapo is primarily focused on ways to save in Europe, we’re based in New York and have plenty to say about ways to save on your trip here. Read on to learn our secrets to keeping your Big Apple budget in check.

How expensive is it?

Quick answer: Very, if you’re not careful. Things are just bigger, bolder and pricier in New York. This is especially the case in tourist-friendly neighborhoods like Times Square and SoHo or upscale areas like Tribeca or the Upper East Side. If you don’t have a strategy to save when you’re exploring the city, then you can easily spend hundreds of dollars a day during your visit.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in 2018 for a few sample items:

• Average hotel per night: $275 (EuroCheapo recommended hotels: $150)
• Taxi ride from Times Square to Greenwich Village: $16 + tip
• Typical attractions: $25 and up
• “Nice” meal for two (with tip and drinks): $100 and up
• Beer: $6-8
• Coffee: $3-5
• Bottle of water: $2-3

The Mayfair Hotel offers affordable rooms in the heart of the city. Photo: Courtesy of Mayfair

Saving on hotels

When it comes to searching for affordable hotels in New York, things can sometimes seem impossible for budget-conscious travelers. Unless you’re searching for a Sunday night in February, you’ll probably immediately see several rates for $400 and up on most popular booking sites. And yes, that’s per night!

Then, when you drill down into the cheaper sleeps, you will most likely find some much less expensive options, but most will be far away from Manhattan in the far reaches of the outer boroughs or across the water in New Jersey.

However, there are still several affordable and central accommodation options that offer a good value, and that’s where EuroCheapo can help. Almost all of our New York City hotels clock in at $150 per night or less and many of our favorite picks come in at under $100 during low season. Even if some of the rates seem expensive for a one- or two-star hotel, remember, we only recommend hotels that have central locations, so you won’t have to spend half of your vacation on the subway.

And with so many well-located hotels to choose from, your hardest decision might be picking which NYC neighborhood is right for your visit.

Some of our favorite budget hotels in central New York include:

• The Mayfair in Times Square (Doubles from $120)

• The Jane Hotel in Greenwich Village (Singles from $88)

• The Carlton Arms Hotel in Gramercy Park (Doubles from $90)

• SoHotel in SoHo (Doubles from $129)

• Hotel 31 in Murray Hill (Doubles from $96)

• Seafarers & International House in Union Square (Doubles from $115)

• The Pod Hotel in Midtown (Doubles from $94)

Other options

Renting an apartment: Searching on apartment rental sites like Airbnb, Homeaway, and others, can turn up some great deals, and these rentals have the extra benefit of including a kitchen or small kitchenette. Just be sure to pay attention to location, as many of the most affordable rentals are not located in central Manhattan, but in farther reaches of the outlying boroughs. Also pay attention to check-in / check-out policies, as you don’t want to be locked out on a city sidewalk without access to your rental.

Youth hostels: Cheapest of all the options is staying in a dorm or private room of a youth hostel. New York offers several, although our favorite in the city is the Hosteling International New York City Hostel, located in a gorgeous turn-of-the-century brick building on the Upper West Side near Central Park. Doubles from $46.

Connecting from the AirTrain to the subway at JFK is easy. And a lot cheaper than a taxi. Photo: Matthew R.

Affordable ways to get in from the airport

New York City has an excellent (well, most of the time) public transportation network that runs 24 hours a day. All three of New York’s main airports are connected to Manhattan by rail or bus, although some of these trips are easier than others.

To/From JFK Airport you can take the AirTrain and subway ($7.75 total trip, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to/from Midtown).

To/From Newark International Airport you can take the AirTrain to NJ Transit trains, which go directly to Penn Station ($13 total trip, approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour)

To/From LaGuardia (LGA) you can take the new Q70 express bus that makes limited stops and connects to the subway ($2.75, approximately 45 minutes from Midtown).

Taxis

All of the options above are much cheaper than a taxi, which, granted can be quicker (if you don’t hit rush hour traffic), but will easily top out at over $50 with tip and tolls. Estimated taxi costs to/from Midtown Manhattan to:

LaGuardia: Metered ride $30-40 (depending on traffic) + tolls & tip

JFK: $52 flat fee + tolls & tip

Newark: Metered ride $50-75 + tolls & tip

Airport buses

A more budget-friendly solution is to take an airport shuttle bus directly to Midtown. There are several companies such as NYC Airporter, Super Shuttle, Go Airlink and Newark Airport Express that offer service from $15 to $24.

Tickets are generally not required in advance; just head outside the terminal and follow signs for “buses to Manhattan.” However, you could save a few dollars by booking tickets in advance through the websites above.

Saving on getting around town

Once you arrive, plan on taking the subway and walking a lot if you really want to see the city and save on transportation costs. Walking is a budget traveler’s best friend, and New York is no exception. Especially if you plan on spending most of your time in Manhattan, it’s not that difficult to get nearly everywhere on foot, mixing in an occasional subway trip to cover longer distances. (This is especially the case if staying in a centrally located hotel.)

Just be sure to pack a comfy pair of walking shoes — but don’t wait to break them in until you arrive! (Seriously, if you’re packing a new pair of shoes, start breaking them in a few days before arriving.)

Along with 24-hour service, the MTA subway and bus system is still very affordable.

Subway prices: One ride: $2.75; 7-day unlimited pass: $33

Should you buy an unlimited pass? That depends. If you plan to walk everywhere, it may not be worth the investment, but if you plan to take at least 12 rides over the course of the week, it pays for itself. The more you ride, the more you save!

Taxis vs subways

Public transit is almost always cheaper for a single traveler than taking a taxi, Uber, or other private cars. One ride in a taxi or Uber might cost you the same amount as a seven-day MTA pass ($32), good for unlimited rides on all subway and bus lines.

Check out which MetroCard might be right for your trip. That said, if you’re traveling in a group, add it up. Sometimes a short ride in a taxi might actually be cheaper than paying for multiple Metro fares (at $2.75 each).

Citibike bike share program

Intrepid travelers might want to hop on a bike during their New York adventure. There are a surprising amount of bike lanes in the city, and you can’t beat a cruise along the Hudson or through Central Park.

New York’s bike share program, Citibike, is a good alternative to bike rentals with docking stations all over Manhattan below 59th Street. Note that short-term members (one week and one day passes) may take unlimited 30-minute rides, while annual memberships allow unlimited 45-minute rides. The new-ish electric bikes cost a little more, but you can cover much more ground on a ride around Central Park or along the Hudson River.

Citibike prices (for unlimited 30-minute rides): Single ride: $3.50; One-day pass: $15; One year pass: $179 (more pricing info)

Attractions and sightseeing

There’s simply no way around the fact that tickets to many of the city’s most popular sights are expensive. For example, you’ll have to shell out some serious cash to ride up to the top of the Empire State Building (starting at $42), One World Observatory (starting at $43) and Top of the Rock ($36).

But there are some attractions that will never cost a dime. These include:

• Staten Island Ferry: Enjoy a free skyline view from the Staten Island Ferry, which runs between Battery Park and Staten Island 24-hours a day and is always free. It’s also a lovely (and free) way to float past the Statue of Liberty, instead of paying for a pricey harbor cruise.

• Free admission to the museums. Keep an eye out for free nights at the museums. MoMA is usually free on Friday nights but that is suspended due to COVID-19. The Guggenheim is free on Saturday evenings from 4 to 6 pm. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is pay-what-you-wish for New York State residents only.

• Brooklyn Bridge: Strolling over the historic wooden walkway of this famous bridge is a rite of passage for many tourists — and for good reason with incredible views of New York. Go in the evening when the crowds are a little smaller and the city lights start to glow.

• Times Square: The self-proclaimed “Crossroads of the World” can be a bit dizzying and dazzling. You can feel the energy of the city all around you as the gigantic signs light up the streets and all sorts of characters (and plenty of tourists) roam around. This is free entertainment at its zaniest. (Just don’t expect to pose for a photo with Elmo without paying.)

• Central Park: Perhaps New York’s most visited attraction, Central Park is free to roam, meander, picnic, jog, cycle and doze. The park is also home to free events throughout the year, including its popular Summerstage and Shakespeare in the Park performances (see under “Entertainment” below).

• Walking Tours: Do you love history? To see a side of the city you might miss on your own, we suggest taking a tour with Bowery Boys Walks. Explore the history of Broadway, Central Park, Greenwich Village, 19th-century NoHo, and the World’s Fair site in Queens. They also offer virtual tours, so you can visit NYC without leaving your couch.

Should you get a tourist pass?

If you prefer to be bused about with other tourists from one iconic sight to the next, buying a tourist sightseeing pass could be a good deal. However, if you prefer a more relaxed schedule, with time to stroll around town with a few attractions thrown in here or there, it will probably be better to pay-as-you-go.

The New York Pass is not cheap, but you can easily get your money’s worth if you plan on visiting several popular sites like Top of the Rock, MoMA or a Circle Line Cruise in one day. It gives you admission to 80 New York attractions and allows you to jump to the front of the line for some of them. However, with a price tag of $117 (1 day), $180 (3 days), $234 (5 days) $270 (7 days) for adults, you really need to stay busy in order to get your money’s worth. (For a bit more, the New York Pass also offers a hop on/hop off bus service.)

Saving on meals

Eating out in New York on a budget is getting trickier with each passing year. Even a classic New York diner can set you back a quite a bit if you’re not careful. Once you throw in drinks and the expected 15-20% tip, the bill can be quite a shock.

As a general rule, try to avoid dining in the touristy neighborhoods, especially Times Square. This part of town is filled with overpriced chain eateries, many of which you can find in Anytown, USA. Escape Midtown and head instead to more residential neighborhoods to find budget-friendly eats. Some suggestions:

• Chinatown is packed with budget eateries. Follow your nose, heading south of Canal Street on Mott and Elizabeth Streets.

• Hit up one of the city’s famous pizzerias. A “pie”, salad and carafe of wine won’t set you back that much, and you’ll get a taste of real New York. (See John’s of Bleecker, below.)

• Bagel shops make for incredibly cheap and delicious breakfasts or lunches that you won’t find anywhere else. (See Ess-a-Bagel, below.)

• And don’t overlook the street carts. While many sell mediocre pretzels and hot dogs, others offer tasty meat over rice dishes that are filling meals for around $7. Don’t know which one to buy from? Hint: If you see a long line of office workers, that’s always a good sign!

Favorite budget-friendly restaurants

Some of our favorite authentic New York dining experiences that won’t break the bank include:

John’s of 12th Street
East Village (202 E 12th St)
Old-school Italian dining at its best with atmosphere, good prices, and great food.

Veselka
East Village (144 2nd Ave)
Classic 24-hour diner serving authentic (and delicious) Ukrainian food since 1954.

John’s of Bleecker
Greenwich Village (278 Bleecker St)
Making tasty coal oven pizza since 1929 in a no-frills space. No slices!

Ess-a-Bagel
Midtown (831 3rd Ave)
The bagels are the real deal at this Midtown shop with long lines and low prices.

Margon
Times Square (136 W 46th St)
Heaping plates of homemade Cuban food for under $10.

Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Chinatown (13 Doyers St)
Oldest dim sum restaurant in New York with fantastic dumplings and a vintage feel.

Papaya King
East Village / Upper East Side (3 St. Mark’s Place/ 179 E 86th St)
New York staple dishing out grilled hot dogs with onion relish and sauerkraut.

Sylvia’s
Harlem (328 Malcolm X Blvd)
Famous soul food spot with affordable bills and a gospel Sunday brunch.

Taim
NoLita / West Village (45 Spring St / 222 Waverly Pl)
Fancy falafel shop with unique and tasty flavors plus wallet-friendly prices.

Entertainment

Want to see the hottest hit Broadway show or a world-class artist in concert? Well, you’re coming to the right city! Here’s how to save:

• Broadway: There’s no need to pay full price for those seats. The TKTS discount ticket booths (at Times Square, South Street Seaport and Downtown Brooklyn) offer same-day discounts of up to 50% for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. If you’re a bit more flexible, you can also try your luck with a show’s lottery or standing room ticket, or book in advance through a site like Broadway Box with discount codes. (Read more about these, and several other tips for saving on Broadway tickets.)

• Off-Broadway: Also, why not stray a bit from the big theaters in Midtown? Opt for an off-Broadway performance instead for a more affordable and sometimes more interesting experience.

• Opera: The Metropolitan Opera releases rush tickets online for $25 and cheap standing room tickets at the box office on the day of the performance.

• Music clubs / Jazz: There are also lots of music clubs hosting shows with no cover. Pick up a copy of Time Out New York (free every Wednesday) for full listings.

• Summer events: There are plenty of free shows and concerts to enjoy around the city during the balmy summer nights. From Shakespeare in the Park performances to Central Park’s Summerstage concerts and outdoor movie screenings at Bryant Park, there’s something free going on almost every night.

Your tips for saving in New York

Have a tip to share for saving on your trip to New York City? Tell us how you save in the comments section below!

The post Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As a longtime Cheapo, a Broadway fiend, and a lover of all things New York City, Chip has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to saving money on trips to the city.

More budget tips for New York
• NYC hotels under $100
• How to visit The Big Apple on the cheap
• NYC: Cheap hotels near Broadway

10 Ways to save on a trip to NYC

From scoring the cheapest tickets to hot shows to finding the best rates on hotels, Chip shares 10 easy ways he saves when he travels to New York.

How do you save in NYC? Be sure to share your New York budget travel tips in the comments at the end of the article.

Now let’s hear what Chip has to say!

Save on your subway rides with a 7-day MetroCard. Photo: Mr.TinDC

Transportation

1. Ride the subway

Go underground to get around the city. The subway is much more affordable than cabs and most times a lot quicker — especially during rush hour!

2. Get an unlimited MetroCard

Get a MetroCard right when you arrive. If you’re in town for a few days, consider getting a 7-day unlimited MetroCard. The cost is $32, and you can ride the subway and bus as much as you want without ever having to worry about refilling it. Single rides cost $2.75, so do the math, and you’ll probably save a bit of cash.

3. Walk!

New York City might be huge, but many of the sights you’ll be visiting are within an easy walk of each other. You can save a lot of money by walking whenever possible.

Stay in the heart of Times Square without breaking the bank at the Hotel Edison.

Accommodations

3. Book your hotel room in advance

With dynamic pricing, changes all the time, book refundable (able to be cancelled without penalty) reservations as early as possible. Then, check back often before your trip to see if you can re-book at the same hotel or another hotel at a lower rate. With steep fees and taxes, room rate savings can really add up.

4. Use EuroCheapo!

EuroCheapo provides great options in New York, all reviewed by actual editors. EuroCheapo helped me find my home away from home for many years at the Larchmont Hotel (recently closed, unfortunately) in Greenwich Village, and many other options now like the Jane Hotel and Hotel 31. These are hotels that often fly under the radar on bigger hotel booking sites.

5. Share a bathroom

Consider a hotel that offers rooms with shared baths (like the Pod 51 Hotel), which can lower your room rate by at least $100 per night! It might seem like a pain, but if you’re out all day, you could save $25 per walk down the hall. That buys a lot of pizza and bagels!

Need more tips on finding a cheap hotel in New York? Check out the guide to saving on hotels in The Big Apple.

Did you know the Met Museum has a pay-what-you-wish policy? Photo: Peter B.

Attractions and entertainment

6. Museums with free admission

In New York, you can see amazing art for free. Head for Free Fridays (4 pm to 8 pm) at the MoMA, and pay what you wish at Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History.

Check out this list of free museums in New York City by day. EuroCheapo found a freebie for every day of the week!

7. Free music

Take the time to experience the city’s music! Head to Washington Square Park (my favorite place) and other parks. In the park, I recently saw Passenger during one of his tours. In June, take advantage of hundreds of free concerts throughout the city during Make Music New York. You’ll also find concerts in many churches, including Trinity Wall Street, or head underground to listen to the local talent on the subway.

8. Save on theater

Save money by joining the Theater Development Fund, and by purchasing rush tickets, TKTS tickets, and off-Broadway tickets. If you plan ahead, you can attend a television show taping, especially for daytime shows, for free.

For more on theater deals, check out my article 7 Ways to Save on Broadway Tickets.

9. Enjoy the free city views!

Ride the Staten Island Ferry for free to see stunning views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. It doesn’t take long, so you can squeeze it in even if you’re on a short visit.

If you have more time, you can also grab a ride or walk over the Brooklyn Bridge for more incredible views of the skyline.

Dumplings are always cheap in Chinatown. Chip loves Nom Wah! Photo: Adam G.

Food in NYC

10. Seek out international cuisine for the best deals

In New York, you can enjoy world-class food that’s cheap. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Bagels: Murray’s
• Dim sum: Nom Wah
• Pizza: NY Pizza Suprema, Bleecker Street, and others
• Baked goods: Breads Bakery, Doughnut Project, Dough, Doughnut Plant

Save money by enjoying meals from street vendors (there are more than just hot dogs!) such as NY Dosas (my favorite), The Halal Guys (so successful, it became a restaurant), Wafels & Dinges (also became a restaurant), and much more.

Get take-out food and enjoy it in the park (try a sandwich from Faicco’s and Murray’s Cheese in the Village). Enjoy two meals a day and hit up nya bodega for breakfast for an egg and cheese roll. Grab your fruit from street vendors. You can get bananas about 25 cents, which is a good option for a cheapo breakfast.

Bonus tip

And on top of these fantastic budget tips for your trip to New York, Chip also has a little advice on really making the most of your time in the city:

“Listen to a podcast, like the Bowery Boys, to learn more about what you are seeing and experiencing. There are more than 230 free episodes of the Bowery Boys podcast about people, neighborhoods, and institutions in the city to make what you see and do more meaningful.

You can also carry a guidebook (or download a digital book on your phone) to check out interesting sites and facts about the places you are visiting.

And finally, participate in some of New York’s walking tours on the High Line, Washington Square Park, and Gramercy Park, to name a few.”

Chip, the star of this article, posing in Lincoln Center on his way to the opera.

Thank you, Chip, for sharing all of this Cheapo advice for adventuring (and saving money) in New York!

Interested in sharing your favorite budget travel tips to your favorite destinations and being featured on our website? Contact us!

The post 10 easy ways I save on my trips to New York appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Like any, well, mythical city, New York is the subject of many an idea that is not necessarily true.

Here’s the down-low on some of the common misconceptions about New York City.

New York City Travel Myths

1. New York is Times Square

The vibrant lights of Times Square are often the first thing non-New Yorkers think of when they picture the Big Apple, but the busy, iconic area is actually only a tiny microcosm in a city of riverside promenades, picturesque tree-lined streets and rustic brick. In fact, although Times Square is indeed a sight to behold, most New Yorkers sidestep it whenever possible — its mascot Elmos and Spidermen, flashing lights, chain restaurants and sky-high billboards feel like a sort of Disneyland surrounded by the “real” city.

So, while you should definitely snap some photos and catch a Broadway show, and while there are even some affordable hotel options in the area, be sure also to get out of Midtown to enjoy the historic Lower East Side or the maze of picturesque streets that is the West Village.

Related: Budget-friendly, non-chain hotels near Times Square

New Yorkers are always ready to offer directions, recommendations, or even hugs. Photo: federicoravassard

2. New Yorkers are mean

There is a general cultural understanding (outside of NYC) that New Yorkers as a rough bunch. However, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. When I first moved to New York, visions of irritated tough guys and cutthroat tycoons shouting and pushing and jostling for space in my head, I was amazed every time (and it was often at first) someone stopped me on the street to ask if I needed help finding something. And I very quickly learned that residents of this city are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

It’s true that New Yorkers are often frenzied — a rush-hour subway crush can drive anyone mad — but on the whole New Yorkers are helpful, supportive, and oh-so-open. My theory has always been that because so many of us are transplants from somewhere else, we are extra open to meeting new people, and because we know what it’s like to be new to (or lost) here, we love to give back when we finally know what’s up. Plus, we’re proud of this fabulous mecca in which we live, and we love to show it off — so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation or ask for recommendations. Chances are, you’ll end up with some unexpected sights to see, surprising places to eat or possibly even a new friend.

3. New York is unsafe

Like any big city, New York has its share of unsavory characters, but the crime-rampant, graffiti-laden city of the ’70s and ’80s (and often of Hollywood) is largely cleaned up. Yes, you’ll want to be watchful over your belongings and aware when out at night (as you should always). However, come 2019 results crime levels in New York were at historic lows, and New York was ranked the third safest large city in the United States. To put that in more personal terms, as a female resident of New York, I feel completely comfortable walking around at night or taking the subway, which tends to be well-populated until around 3 am.

Enjoy the great collections at The Morgan and other museums on their free days. Photo: sfbart

4. New York is expensive

True and not true. Real estate in New York famously comes at a premium, and travel here can feel extravagant as well. But that does not mean that it’s impossible to enjoy New York a la Cheapo. In fact, the city can even be frugal-friendly if you’re smart about it. The beauty of restaurants on every block is that many serve up delicious fare sans outrageous prices, and there are all manner of local markets and food stalls that also offer great bargain meals.

Entertainment-wise, many of the city’s famous sights are free, and even those things that can often run up the tab — think museums and Broadway — can be had for a song (or nearly). There are many options for snagging bargain Broadway tickets, and most museums have at least one free or pay-what-you-wish day of the week. As for the city’s famously high hotel rates, that depends on where you stay. There are plenty of affordable (and lovely) options all over the city.

Related: Free tours in New York City

5. All New Yorkers are fashionistas

No, it is not required to dress like you just stepped off the set of Sex and the City. New York is indeed a fashion lover’s cream puff, but in a city so large, anything goes. You’re just as likely (possibly more so) to see faded tees and Toms as you are to see haute couture ensembles. Like everything else in New York, fashion is often an experience, so you’re also likely to see some pretty outrageous looks. 

Believe it or not, the other boroughs are just as interesting as Manhattan (plus, they have views). Photo: Aleks Ivic

6. Everything is in Manhattan

Even those who know that Times Square is not the most accurate representation of New York are often prone to thinking that Manhattan is New York. But spending all of your time in Manhattan means you’re missing out on a number of wonders the rest of the city has to offer.

New York City is actually the name for five distinct boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. And each borough has its own distinct flavor and its own sights to see. Greenery lovers, for example, should venture up to the New York Botanic Garden in the Bronx, while Queens is great for cute neighborhoods and great Greek food. And Brooklyn these days is a destination in its own right, with a surge of arts and restaurants and parks that may even give Manhattan a run for its money.

Related: Our favorite budget hotels in Brooklyn

Walking, biking, and public transit tend to be easier than cabs. Photo: J Blough

7. Everyone takes cabs

Yellow cabs and ride-hailing companies like Uber are ubiquitous in Manhattan, but they are far from the best way to get around. For one, they can often be hard to flag down or summon on your app, especially during peak hours, but more importantly, every cab journey is only as good as the traffic on your route, so a cab ride can often take longer — and cost far more — than a subway ride would. Plus, all the starting and stopping can often, no joke, leave you feeling a little sick.

My favorite way to get around New York (weather and time permitting) is walking, as it affords so many more experiences and ways to interact with the city. Beyond that, New York public transit is efficient, affordable, and oh-so-easy. The subway can zip you just about anywhere, and buses are a great option as well.

The post New York is Times Square and 6 other myths busted appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

And so begins the beloved New York tradition that is Shakespeare in the Park.

History of Shakespeare in the Park

Much ado about something

Rain or shine they come. They wait in line, they endure mosquitoes, they strain to hear over car alarms… But why all the hype around Shakespeare in the Park? Well, New Yorkers are fanatic about their traditions, and rightly so about this one.  It has certainly accomplished the goal of Joseph Papp, who founded the Shakespeare Workshop (today’s Public Theater) in 1954 with the goal of bringing the Bard to those who might not otherwise experience him.

Like many of the city’s institutions, this one began as a scrappy upstart, running early performances in a crumbling church, along the East River, and then at Turtle Pond in Central Park before the Delacorte Theater was built opened in 1962. And oh what a theater it is. With Belvedere Castle rising in the background, this is magical place for enjoying theater alfresco—whether you’re dancing with the cast at the end of “Hair,” or enjoying the stars and Turtle Pond while Lorenzo praises “How sweet the moonlight sleeps upon this bank!” in “The Merchant of Venice.”

It’s this magic, along with rotating all-star casts (James Earl Jones, Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and many others have graced this stage), that keep people coming back for this fabulous, and FREE, event.

And it is the combination of free and popular that adds up to ever-increasing competition for tickets. Your options can sometimes seem confusing, but we’ve broken down all the ways you can score seats, and threw in some tips for good measure.

Getting tickets the simple way

A midsummer day’s wait

The most common way to acquire Shakespeare in the Park tickets is to wait in line, sometimes for hours. Tickets are distributed in front of the Delacorte (enter the park at Central Park West and 81st Street) on the day of each showing.

Bring entertainment to make the wait fun. Photo: smackfu.

Here’s what you need to know about receiving one:

1. Arrive early. Tickets are distributed at noon on a first-come, first-served basis, so would-be attendees have been known to camp out and wait. How early should you arrive? Well, the park opens at 6 a.m. (don’t come earlier than this), and many will begin lining up then. We say arrive no later than 10 a.m., but if you get in line around 8 a.m. you should be okay.

2. Bring supplies. You’ll be sitting until noon, so bring along items to occupy yourself. Books, magazines, even a game will surely come in handy. And don’t forget a blanket or chair, plus food and plenty of water.

3. Come in a group and arrive together. Tickets are distributed two per person, so if you need more than two tickets, be sure to bring along a buddy (that game you brought is more fun with a pal anyway). However, note that latecomers are not allowed, so make sure your group arrives together or you’ll all be sent to the back of the line.

4. Don’t leave the line. You leave the line, and you lose your place, so plan to stay put. Bathroom breaks are, of course, allowed, and you can find restrooms right at the Delacorte. They are relatively clean, but because they will be used a lot, you may want to add tissues and hand sanitizer to that supply list.

5. Time it well. When tickets are handed out at noon, will you get one? Depends on your place in the line, of course. A latecomer’s best chance for scoring a ticket will be on a weekday, or if you brave the wait on a rainy day when fewer folks will venture out.

Other options for tickets

To wait or not to wait

The wait for tickets is completely worth it, and some might even call it part of the fun, but there are times when you just aren’t able to sit in line for hours. Never fear, you still have options:

Brave the rain for a better chance at tickets. Photo: lilyo.

• Head to an outer borough. On select dates, vouchers are available at outer borough locations between 12 and 2 p.m. Supplies are limited, so we again suggest arriving as close to the noon open time as possible. Note that once you receive your voucher, you’ll have to be at the Delacorte between 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to exchange it for a ticket. Check the Shakespeare in the Park site for information on dates and locations for these tickets.

• Enter the lottery. The Public Theater also offers a daily online raffle for those who can’t make it to the park to wait. Simply create an account and sign in between midnight and noon on the day of the performance. You’ll receive an email after 12 p.m. letting you know whether or not you have received tickets, and then you can pick up your tickets at the Delacorte between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

• Stand-by. If tickets are available before the start of the show, they are distributed, one per person, to those in the stand-by line. Guests can line up for to wait as early as 1 p.m., but we’d say 5:30 p.m. is a reasonable time to start waiting. The same rules apply: Bring food and entertainment, and know that this is not a sure thing (but if nothing else you’ve enjoyed a picnic in the park).

Tell us: Have you been to Shakespeare in the Park? Do you have any tips for obtaining tickets?

The post New York: A guide to getting free Shakespeare in the Park tickets appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Get spooked, Cheapos. Here’s how:

Spooky Staten Island

Believe it or not, Staten Island is considered one of the most haunted places in the northeast. It’s worth the ferry ride (a great free way to get close to Lady Liberty!) to visit the Conference House, a simple stone building from 1680 that does not have a simple history.

It was here in 1776 that the Americans and British tried to reach an agreement that would have prevented the Revolutionary War. Several spirits are said the lurk about the place, including a few redcoats who may have been buried near the house during the war, the jilted fiancé of Captain Billopp, the original owner of the house, and a servant girl later killed by Colonel Billopp (his great-grandson). And that is only the beginning. Prepare for shivers.

Note: Admission is free to the house, $3 to enter the on-site museum.

Ghosts of Manhattan

Back in Manhattan, there are a host of ghosts and haunted spots to choose from. Start off your tour of ghoulish New York with a courage-building tipple at Bridge Cafe (279 Water St), one of the few remaining wooden buildings left in Manhattan. Built in 1794, it’s taken turns as a general store, brothel, and a bar frequented by pirates, some of whom are said to, uh, return for Halloween tricks.

But the most colorful ghost here is said to be that of Gallus Mag. Remember that fight scene in Scorsese’s Gangs of New York that took place in a tavern decorated with jars of pickled body parts? It’s an homage to the garishly tall Irish (female) bouncer who ruled Bridge Café’s former incarnation, Hole in the Wall, with iron teeth. Don’t worry, Gallus can no longer bite off your ear, but you may just hear her heavy footsteps.

Onward, take a walk north through the West Village’s Washington Square Park, well-known for its iconic arch and its role as a favorite—dare we say—haunt of folk singers and hippies. But this happening park in the middle of New York University-land was once a potter’s field where the poor were buried, and then a parade ground and gallows where criminals were executed. Just last year, in fact, a headstone of one James Jackson (died 1799) was unearthed during a renovation project. Think that the 20,000 or so people whose remains are still under the park come back for a stroll every now and then? I do.

Moving east, take a trip through Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral (263 Mulberry St.), New York City’s oldest church. Bishop John DuBois, founder of Mt. St. Mary’s College in Maryland, was buried under the front entrance in 1842 and has been “spotted” by visitors from time to time. Also occupying the church cemetery—in spirit, at least—is Pierre Toussaint, a freed slave-cum-hairdresser who helped raise funds for the building of Old St. Pat’s and attended daily Mass for 60 years. Toussaint’s remains were moved to the new St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but the spirit of the man who may soon be America’s first black saint have stayed close to his old haunt in Nolita.

Next up? The (in)famous Hotel Chelsea (222 W. 23rd St.) is frequented by decidedly less saintly spirits, like Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols, who was accused in 1978 of killing his girlfriend Nancy in room 100 (also known as the “Sid and Nancy Room”). He can still sometimes be seen near the elevator doors. This bohemian mecca was built in 1883 and became a hotel in 1905. Over the course of its long history it’s played home to such creatives as Dylan Thomas, Janis Joplin, Eugene O’Neill, and Thomas Wolfe. Many of whom never really moved out…

Trick or treat or tour?

As for spooky stories, we’ve just hit the tip of the island. If you’re as obsessed as I am, you could shell out some cash and try out a guided ghost tour of New York. Ghosts of New York allows thrill seekers to track down the spirit of Edgar Allen Poe and Eleanor Roosevelt in Greenwich Village, or commune with John Lennon near his old home on the Upper West Side. Tours are $20 each, or $33 for two tours in the same night. Or for check out the Boroughs of the Dead tours for more spooky fun and insight into New York history.

Some freakish history

Can’t make it to New York this Halloween? Never fear! Tune in to The Bowery Boys, a free New York City history podcast hosted by Greg Young and Tom Meyers. (Full, eerie disclaimer: Tom is also the editor of EuroCheapo.) Every year the Boys give us chills with their “spooky stories” podcast. You can download all of their Halloween podcasts or read about other spooky tours here, if you dare…

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1. The High Line
L, A, C or E Train to 14th Street & 8th Avenue (see Web site for other access points)

The High Line is a true New York success story. The elevated train tracks, a 1930’s answer to freight train accidents, were under threat of demolition until the non-profit group Friends of the High Line turned them into an oasis in the sky in 2009. Its wild patches of green are overgrown on purpose, spilling out onto concrete walkways and, of course, the rails themselves. Enjoy views of the Hudson River and the Meatpacking District, or check out one of their free events.

Governors Island. Photo by jonmeyer.

2. Fort Tryon Park
A Train to 190th Street

If the High Line is an urban playground, Fort Tryon Park at Manhattan’s northern tip is anything but. In fact, if it weren’t for views of the George Washington Bridge, you might even forget you were in New York City. Picture massive boulders, lush vegetation and one of the largest heather gardens on the East Coast. Oh, and then there’s that museum that looks like a French monastery…

3. Governors Island
Free ferry from Battery Maritime Building (10 South Street;adjacent to Staten Island Ferry)

This little island is a Cheapo happy place. The blissful feeling starts on the free ferry ride over and builds when you’re welcomed by historic buildings (including a castle), unbelievable views of the Statue of Liberty and, um, a “beach.”

4. Coney Island
D, Q, N or F Train to Stillwell Avenue

Once the playground of New York’s elite, then later an entertainment destination for the masses, today this boardwalk/beach at Brooklyn’s southern edge is trying to fight its way off the list of New York’s endangered treasures. We advise visiting Coney Island while you still can. Take in its beach, its historic, rickety (and exhilarating!) Cyclone and the amazing (and disturbing) Shoot the Freak carnival game.

Sunset Park. Photo by Lorianne DiSabato.

5. Conservatory Garden in Central Park
4 or 6 Train to 103rd Street (Enter at Fifth Avenue and 105th Street)

We know, we know! Central Park is a terribly obvious pick for New York’s best outdoor spaces, but the idyllic Conservatory Garden at its northeastern end is all too often overlooked. And its manicured hedges, fragrant flowerbeds and Secret Garden-esque fountains will not disappoint.

6. Sunset Park
N or R Train to 45th Street, Brooklyn

The neighborhood of Sunset Park, Brooklyn is a miniature United Nations built up around its namesake park, which offers views that rival those from the top of the Empire State Building. Only here you can also see said building—and the views are free. While you’re in the area, stop at Greenwood Cemetery, a Civil War battle site and final resting place of Boss Tweed, Samuel Morse and other New York elite.

7. Stargazing

Believe it or not, it’s possible to see stars from the city. And no, we’re not talking about the artificial kind. The Amateur Astronomy Association of New York hosts “observing sessions” at parks throughout the city. Try Inwood Hill Park at the northern tip of Manhattan, said to be the best place see stars since it has no streetlamps. The AAA takes groups there every Saturday. Bring comfortable shoes, a flashlight and your sense of wonder.

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The all-volunteer boathouse has been getting New Yorkers (and visitors) into the Hudson for 10 years, and an estimated 250,000 kayak trips have been enjoyed so far. The group provides several programs: kayaking lessons, three-hour kayak adventures up the Hudson, harbor tours, and the popular “walk-up kayaking.”

Free Walk-Up Kayaking

Between May and October each year, the group offers its free walk-up kayaking program. It’s simple: walk up to any of the group’s three boathouses, sign a liability waiver, put on a life jacket, and grab a kayak and paddle. You’re restricted to paddling inside the protected waters surrounding the boathouse (so lay aside your plans to head for Lady Liberty). The staff keeps a watchful eye on the kayakers.

Rules: Anyone who can swim is permitted to kayak. Children between 16-18 years may take a kayak out on their own, if a parent or guardian is present at the boathouse. Children younger than 16 may go out, but must be accompanied by an adult in a double-kayak.

Boathouse locations and hours

The Downtown Boathouse has three locations, each with their own hours:

Pier 40 at Houston Street and the Hudson River — 9 AM to 6 PM, weekends and holidays.

Pier 96 at 56th Street and the Hudson River — 9 AM to 6 PM, weekends and holidays. Also open weekday nights from 5 PM to 7 PM, June 16 through August 29.

72nd Street and the Hudson River — 10 AM to 5 PM, weekends and holidays.

For more information, visit the New York City Downtown Boathouse’s website.

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