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If you have visited New York City, or researched a trip, you know that the Big Apple can be expensive. From overpriced play tickets, to the $40.00 entrance fee to catch a view at the Top of the Rock, New York City can quickly empty your wallet, but there are free activities to keep your adventure budget intact.

Morgan Library and Museum

I fell in love with books, from the very first day I learned to read. There is nothing that delights me more, than a visit to a library or book store. There is something uplifting about being surrounded by imagination and knowledge.

From the moment I caught a glimpse of The Morgan Library on Instagram, the fire of longing was set.

Most days, the Morgan Library and Museum has an admission fee, but on Friday evenings, from 7pm-9pm, the entrance is free.  We planned our itinerary accordingly.

Stepping into the main library room, I discover that it’s more than just books. The Morgan Library is an awe-inspiring combination of literature, architecture, and art.

There are also strong whispers of the past.

It is impossible to wrap my mind around the fact that this was someone’s home library.

I cuddle up with a good book in my bed, located in my modestly decorated bedroom. I can’t fathom curling up in a chair, in front of my huge fireplace, surrounded by more books than I could read in a lifetime.

Morgan’s study is also on display.

A modern addition to the library and museum  includes floors of art and exhibit galleries.

I’m happy I finally got to mark The Morgan Library and Museum off of my literary bucketlist. If you are a fellow bibliophile, I highly recommend a visit, just be sure to visit on free Friday.

Central Park 

Fountains, statues, and open spaces, a walk through Central Park is the perfect, free, New York City, activity.

Throughout the sprawling park, there are benches, and quiet places to relax while watching the world go by.

During our visit to Central Park, we have a bonus.

We met Carrie and Mark on our Panama/Costa Rica, Uncrusie. We’ve kept in touch. When I told Carrie, a New York City local, that we were coming for a visit, she offered to give us a locals tour of Central Park.

It’s great fun, exploring the park, while Carrie tells us stories and information that stretch back to her childhood, growing up in the city. It makes the park feel special and personal.

Like our visit to The Morgan Library, Central Park is a striking mix of art and architecture.

There is also a healthy dose of nature. My favorite place in the park is the turtle pond.

If you are visiting New York City, you could easily spend an entire day strolling around Central Park.

*If you do want to visit Central Park with a guide, you can contact the wonderful tour guide, Maria Gorshin. 

Walking Across the Brooklyn Bridge 

After admiring the Brooklyn Bridge in movies and TV shows, it was exciting to walk across this beautiful piece of engineering, with my two feet.

Though I’m sure there are times when the bridge isn’t super crowded, generally, be prepared for it to be packed with pedestrians and aggressive bikers. Even with the hubbub, we found quiet pockets here and there.

As we walk, I’m enamored with the spectacular, city, skyline views.

It’s also thrilling to get an up close view of the engineering and architecture of the bridge.

Of course the best part of walking across The Brooklyn Bridge…it’s free.

Sea Glass Carousel-Battery Park

The Sea Glass Carousel in Battery Park is not free. A ride will set you back $5, but it’s $5 well spent.

It’s unlike any carousel I have ever encounter.

It’s a colorful work of art.

A ride on the carousel is a magical, surreal, trippy, experience.

I’m hypnotized every minute of the ride.

If you are in New York City for a long weekend, and are on a budget. There is plenty of exciting free fun to be had, if you know where to look.

If you’re looking for a great travel community to join, check out WeekendWanderlust

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