Top Free Activities in New York State with iBestTravel
While New York City tends to live up to its pricey reputation, things vary drastically outside the five boroughs. There are plenty of lesser-known places to visit, from the upstate regions of Niagara to the Adirondacks and Long Island. The best part? Many activities in the region are free.
Get unparalleled views at the Walkway Over the Hudson
This may be as close as it comes to walking on water. Spanning the Hudson River from Highland on the west to Poughkeepsie on the east, the 1.28-mile Walkway Over the Hudson is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world.
Towering 212ft above the river with entrances on either side, the walk across provides an unparalleled vantage point of the Hudson Valley, with views stretching from the Hudson Highlands to the Catskills.
Though special events might impact hours, the walkway, which is ADA handicapped accessible, is free from 7am to sunset year-round.
Hike the Empire State Trail
With so many hidden sights to explore in New York State, there’s no better way to stumble upon them than by foot. In 2017, New York State launched the Empire State Trail, creating a 750-mile cohesive network made up of three sections: the Hudson Valley Greenway, the Erie Canalway Trail, and the Champlain Valley Trail.
There are access points to hundreds of cultural and historic sites, offering numerous opportunities to explore the rich heritage of the area.
Enjoy art and gardens in Roslyn Harbor
The 145 acres of the William Cullen Bryant Preserve surrounding the Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor, Long Island offers three distinct experiences.
Start your visit by exploring the sculptures in the Sculpture Garden, showcasing pieces that span from 1913 to 2018.
Then, stroll along the brick path through the immaculately manicured Formal Garden, once a popular entertainment spot during the Roaring 20s.
Round out your visit at the Arboretum and Trails, where the six miles of trails highlight the beautiful diversity of the region.
Reach new heights at the Adirondacks High Peaks Wilderness Complex
At 275,460 acres, the Adirondacks High Peaks Wilderness Complex is the largest wilderness space in New York State. It is home to Mount Marcy and Algonquin Peak, perfect for all levels of hikers. The area boasts waterfalls, natural pools, and clearwater brooks, offering opportunities to relax and cool off on warm days.
Dive into the spooky lore of Sleepy Hollow
The spooky reputation of Sleepy Hollow is anchored in the Washington Irving short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” The cemetery offers free maps to guide visitors to the resting spots of iconic figures. The town is filled with odes to the tale, making it an exciting destination for fans of folklore.
Attend a free concert on the Thousand Islands
Every seat is the best seat in the house at Alex Bay’s Scenic View Park Pavilion, overlooking the Thousand Islands’ St. Lawrence Seaway. This year’s program features free concerts every Wednesday from 7 to 8:30pm, offering a great way to enjoy music by the water.
Witness the power of Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls State Park, founded in 1885, is the nation’s oldest state park. The area offers stunning views and is filled with gardens, trails, and various viewpoints of the falls. A nominal fee at the observation tower provides an unobstructed view of this natural wonder.
