New York City is notorious for being expensive. But it’s also full of free things to do. You can explore the city’s most popular sites (as well as some hidden gems) without bleeding your wallet dry. (Keep in mind that, while the destinations may be free, parking will most definitely not be free. Street parking is the most affordable, if you can find a spot.) Here are just some of the best free attractions in NYC.

Explore Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal (also known as Grand Central Station) is a must-see for anyone visiting New York. An architectural landmark, this train station is full of things to see and do, from shops to restaurants.

The main concourse is the most iconic part of the Grand Central Station. The ceiling of the main concourse features gold leaf zodiac constellations. (Fun fact: the constellations were painted backwards!) Another iconic feature of the main concourse is the clock sitting atop the information booth. If you’re visiting Grand Central Station with a friend, don’t miss out on the whispering gallery. The arches of the gallery not only look nice, but they are perfect for acoustics. If two people whisper at each other from opposite corners of the gallery, they’ll be able to hear each other.

Take Pictures at The Chrysler Building

When people think of skyscrapers in NYC, they often think of the Empire State Building or One World Trade Center. But the Chrysler Building tops all of those (in my opinion.) The building is a classic example of art deco architecture, and it’s one of the prettiest buildings in the city. It’s not exactly a tourist destination (it’s mainly used for businesses and office spaces), but you can still visit the main lobby and take pictures for free.

Walk Around Central Park

Probably the most popular (and definitely the largest) park in NYC, Central Park is perfect for the whole family. Whether you want to stroll and take in the nice scenery or run across the 2.5 mile span of the park, the area has something for everyone. It even has a zoo (remember Madagascar, anyone?) Tip: visit the park in warmer weather.

Keep an Eye out for Street Art

New York City is full of vibrant street art, providing several unique photo opportunities. One popular mural is located at 2 World Trade Center, right across from The Oculus Shopping Center. This mural was the result of the combined effort of multiple artists, including Todd Gray and Hektad.

Another street painting that you definitely do not want to miss is Banksy’s “Hammer Boy.” This graffiti silhouette has been perfectly preserved, thanks to a plexiglass covering.

See the Architecture at The Oculus Center

The Oculus Center is a shopping mall and subway station, known for its iconic rib caged architecture. (I realize that a shopping mall isn’t normally a “free” thing to do, but visitors don’t need to go shopping unless they want to. I recommend The Oculus purely for its architectural magnificence.)

Visit the 9/11 Memorial

Located across from The Oculus, the 9/11 Memorial is an essential destination for anyone visiting NYC. If you’re visiting the North and South Pools, it’s completely free. (The museum, however, does require an entrance fee on all normal days. On every Monday, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., the museum admission is free.)

Visit The National Museum of the American Indian

This museum is a branch of the larger Smithsonian museum in D.C., and being a Smithsonian museum, it comes with the benefits of being completely free. The museum houses exhibitions displaying American Indian art and culture, and is a great experience for people wanting to do something less popular but still equally enjoyable.

Stroll Through Times Square

If you’re fine with insanely crowded places and love expensive shops, then Times Square is just the right place for you! If you choose to opt for the free experience, though, you can simply walk around and take pictures of the giant television screens. (Has it gotten across yet that I think Times Square is overrated? Well it is. My recommendation is that you drive through it, that way you can blitz through without being sucked into the inescapable crowds of people. But that’s just because I despise large crowds. If you like that stuff, then go for it.)

Explore The New York Public Library

The New York Public Library’s main branch, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is the perfect destination for book lovers. From the Rose Reading Room, with breathtaking architecture and grand ceiling murals, to the completely free Polonsky Exhibition which features several literary artifacts (including my personal favorite: a set of original Winnie-the-Pooh plush characters, based on Ernest Shepard’s illustrations), The New York Public Library is full of things to see and do.

See the Arch at Washington Square Park

Built in honor of the centennial of President George Washington’s first inauguration, the Washington Arch, located in the park, is one of the top free things to see in the city. It’s perfect for photo opportunities, and it won’t take up too much of your time (because the arch is pretty much the only thing to see in the park.)

Walk Across Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge is an icon of New York City, and if you’re up to fighting the crowds (or if you happen to arrive at a less busy time), then walking across the bridge is worth it. (It might also be more worth it to drive by and shoot pictures from the safety of your car. Just a bit of advice from your resident Large Crowd Avoider.)

From street art to parks, the best free attractions in NYC include some of the city’s most famous landmarks, so you can experience the spirit of the city without spending anything.