Traveling to New York City is a dream for many, but the cost can be daunting. I had the chance to visit the Big Apple in February 2022, right after the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and managed to keep my trip under $2,000 for an entire week. While prices have certainly risen since then, there are still plenty of ways to explore New York City without breaking the bank. Here's how I mastered how to travel to New York City cheap, and how you can too.
My Budget Breakdown:
Plane Tickets: $300
Hotel next to Times Square: $1,000
New York Pass for 5 Days: $300
Food: $400
Total Cost: $2,000
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
Timing is everything when it comes to saving money on a trip to New York. I visited in February, which is one of the cheapest months to travel to the city. Tourism is lower compared to peak seasons like Christmas or summer, which means that flights and hotels are significantly less expensive. While New York in February can be cold, I was fortunate with the weather. However, be prepared for chilly temperatures and possibly snow. If you're willing to brave the winter, you'll find that your dollar stretches much further.
2. Find Affordable Flights
One of the biggest advantages I had was scoring a round-trip flight for just $300. Post-COVID, flights were incredibly cheap as airlines tried to attract travelers back. While prices have increased since then, you can still find deals by being flexible with your travel dates. Use flight comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to monitor prices and set alerts for price drops. Flying mid-week or during off-peak times can also help you snag a better deal.
3. Book Budget-Friendly Accommodations
I stayed in a hotel near Times Square for $1,000 for the week, which was a steal given the location. While prices may be higher now, you can still find affordable accommodations by considering a few strategies:
Stay in Lower Manhattan or Queens: Hotels in these areas tend to be cheaper than those in Midtown or Times Square.
Consider Hostels or Airbnb: If you're open to more basic accommodations, hostels or Airbnb rentals can offer significant savings.
Travel Off-Peak: Just like flights, hotel prices drop during off-peak times. February remains one of the cheapest months, but late January and early March are also good options.
4. Eat on a Budget
New York City is a food lover's paradise, but dining out can quickly add up. To keep food costs low, I took advantage of the city's street food. You can find delicious and affordable options like dollar pizza slices, hot dogs, and bagels all over the city. Not only are these options easy on the wallet, but they also give you a taste of New York’s iconic food culture.
If you prefer sit-down meals, look for lunchtime specials or prix-fixe menus, which are often more affordable than dinner. Additionally, grocery stores like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods offer ready-to-eat meals that are perfect for a quick, budget-friendly bite.
5. Save on Attractions with the New York Pass
The New York Pass was a game-changer for me. For $300, I got access to the top attractions, including the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This pass saved me up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets. Plus, it made it easy to plan my days and see as much as possible without worrying about additional costs.
If you’re staying for a shorter time or have specific sights in mind, consider other passes like the CityPASS or the Explorer Pass, which allow you to choose a set number of attractions at a discounted rate.
6. Enjoy the City for Free
One of the best things about New York is that it’s a city meant to be explored on foot. Walking around allows you to soak in the energy, architecture, and culture without spending a dime. Central Park, the High Line, and the Brooklyn Bridge are all free to visit and offer incredible views of the city. Don’t forget to check out Times Square at night—it's an experience in itself!
Final Thoughts
While my trip to New York City was a bargain, with a bit of planning, you can still visit the city on a budget today. Be strategic about when you travel, where you stay, and how you spend your money, and you'll be able to experience all that New York has to offer without overspending. Safe travels!
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