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Our week of free is in full swing! Each day, we're keeping you in the loop about the best free events in NYC and giving you exclusive offers at some of our favorite spots around the city. And tonight, we're throwing a free party for our readers and giving out copies of our upcoming issue—for free.
But just in case we haven't convinced you that enjoying this city can come at zero cost, we're letting notable New Yorkers tell you about their favorite free things to do each day. Today: Pat Kiernan, who has been the morning anchor at NY1 since 1997 and is the editor of PatsPicks.com. Here's what he has to say:
"Free" in New York City often means an event that attracts a much bigger crowd than it can reasonably accommodate. Often these freebies are such a struggle in terms of time and effort that I'll utter something like "that wasn't really free" before it's over. Which is why one of my favorite free attractions is one that's available around the clock and almost always has room for more people: the Staten Island Ferry.
Officially, the ferry is not an entertainment or sightseeing attraction … it’s a commuter service. But it simultaneously delivers spectacular views of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty. And there’s something therapeutic about getting out on the water and standing on deck in the sea breeze.
Like a lot of New Yorkers, I see more of our city when I have visitors in town than when I’m on my own. It’s one of my favorite places to take a friend who hasn’t visited the city before. But there’s no reason to wait until you’re playing tour guide. It’s an easy 60-minute round trip. A perfect way to distract your kids or clear your head after a stressful day.