Free Things to Do in Brooklyn

North America / United States of America / New York City /

Brooklyn on a Budget

Brooklyn is much larger than Manhattan, and it's where much more of New York's population lives. And this makes it a fantastic place to visit and explore, because there's plenty of activities and things to do. From the museums to the restaurants to the parks and gardens, you can't go wrong if you venture over the bridge from Manhattan into the borough of Brooklyn.

But as you know, much of New York can be expensive. Therefore, we have assembled a list of the best free activities and things to do in Brooklyn for those of you that are traveling on a budget. All of these things are free (or free some days of the week), and they are lots of fun. Let's get to it.
Prospect Park
Prospect Park
Prospect Park is located in Brooklyn and is a family-friendly place to explore with a carousel, a zoo, and Greenmarket. There's plenty of grassy areas and green space where you can enjoy a picnic or meet some friends at the ball fields for a pick-up game. During the warmer months you can also catch some outdoor music or even a show at the Prospect Park Bandshell.
Manhattan Bridge
Manhattan Bridge
The Manhattan Bridge connects Lower Manhattan and Canal Street to Downtown Brooklyn. It's a suspension bridge that's 6,855 ft long and crosses the East River. The bridge is also a lesser known spot where you can enjoy views of the city, looking out on either Chinatown or the Brooklyn Bridge.
Manhattan Bridge lower level, NYC, New York, 11201-1832
Planning a trip to New York City? You might also be interested in Free Things to Do in the Bronx and Free Things to Do in Queens.
Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in New York City. The bridge crosses the East River, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was completed in 1883 and, with its arches and suspension cables, it was the world's first steel suspension bridge. The bridge offers impressive views of the city and many visitors enjoy biking or walking across the bridge.
NYC, New York, 10038
New York Aquarium
The New York Aquarium first opened in Castle Garden in Battery Park, but it's been located on the boardwalk in Coney Island since 1957. It's been operational since 1896, making it the oldest continually running aquarium in the US. The aquarium offers interesting exhibits and educational experiences including a shark tunnel that guests of all ages can enjoy. They offer free admission on Wednesday afternoons, but charge admission fees all other times.
NYC, New York, 11224
Website
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden was created in 1910 and is situated in the Prospect Park neighborhood. Here you can find a number of special plant collections a s well as the Steinhardt Conservatory which is home to the Bonsai Museum. Also in the Conservatory are several themed areas featuring various climates, a glass aquatic plant house, plus an art gallery. While admission is not free, a huge number of visitors enter every year making this a popular and well-visited destination. They host events, children's activities, and classes, too. While an admission fee is usually charged for entry, it's free on Tuesdays, Saturday mornings, and a few other days of the year, too.
1000 Washington Avenue, Prospect Heights, NYC, New York, 11238
Website
Brighton Beach
Next door to all the fun at Coney Island, Brighton Beach has some wide sandy beaches with a relaxing but fun vibe. As expected, it's very popular in the summer months when the water and weather is warmer. Lifeguards are on duty during the day in the summer, and the facilities are wheelchair accessible, too.
Ocean Parkway to Corbin Place, Brooklyn, New York City, New York
Website
The Brooklyn Museum
This low key museum doesn't see the crowds that are found at some of Manhattan's bigger name museums. It's collection is still impressive though with more than 1.5 million pieces that include Egyptian art, early American art, and much more. The museum is also the third largest in New York City when measured by size.
200 Eastern Pkwy , Brooklyn, NY, 11238
Website
Brooklyn Flea Market
This weekend flea market has hundreds of vendors that sell everything from furniture to vintage clothing, or antiques. This is a favorite for shoppers of all kinds and styles, and many have ranked it among the best flea markets in the world.
Brooklyn
New York City has plenty more to offer, so see also our other articles: A Train Lover's Guide to New York City and A Nature Lover's Guide to New York City.
Industry City
Located on the waterfront in Brooklyn, this retail area is spread throughout a repurposed New York industrial site. It offers open air shopping, plenty of open space, and a unique experience. There's also a food court with a wide variety of options, and tons of shopping venues with anything you might need.
220 36th St, Suite 2-A, Brooklyn, NY, 11232
Website
How much does it cost?

Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $5 to $999. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $101. A few of the best options are below.

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Planning a trip to New York City? You might also be interested in The Best Science Museums in New York City and The 17 Best Children's Museums in New York City and The Best Parks, Gardens, and Things to Do Outdoors in New York City and The Best Iconic Skyscrapers to Visit in New York City and Famous Squares and Plazas to Visit in New York City and The Best Planetariums to Visit near New York City.
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