Daniel Davidson’s 101 Free Things to Do in New York City is worth the $2.99 price tag, if only for the substantial list of free, quality food opportunities. Items #15-45 cover a wealth of free food.
Designed for visitors to the city, this particular section of the guide would appeal to locals as well. Most of this food is offered with purchase of drinks – and the detailed list encompasses many places I’ve never heard of, despite proximity to my home.
Most New Yorkers below 30 or those of us who work with them know about the popular Alligator Lounge, with free personal pizzas with every drink. But, I had no idea I could get free pomme frites with beer or drink at The Belgian Room, or free Italian snacks at Piola from 5-8pm on weeknights.
The 119 page book comprehensive book provides interactive maps, and sections on:
Free Art, Literature and Architecture; Free Food and Drink; Free Outdoor Activities; Free Music, Theater and Dance; Free Transportation and Parking; Free Markets, Stores and Window Shopping
Before Davidson delves into his listings in each section, he provides links to resources like Eater’s 15 Places to Get Free Food or valuable sites like the Historic House Trust.
Free Art, Literature and Architecture covers the best days of the week to visit sites to avoid paying entry fees. Brief, but thorough descriptions of sights are provided. Once again, Davidson finds places not on my radar, like the Schomberg Center for Research in Black Culture and the Swiss Institute.
Throughout the book, readers are asked to update the author by email about any changes or closings of the sights, restaurants, or other places mentioned in the guide.
Useful for locals and visitors alike, 101 Free Things to Do in New York City is a great resource for anyone who wants to save money and locate some off the beaten track NYC sights.
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This article was originally posted October 22, 2013.
Disclosure: SuitcaseReady.com was provided a free copy of 101 Things to Do in New York City for evaluation.