9 Ways to Enjoy NYC Under $30

The rent is too damn high, and everything from lunch and ice cream to cooking classes and movies, seem to get more expensive by the day. New Yorkers and visitors alike could use a break! Instead of spending money on a shopping spree at Century 21 or buying souvenirs that will just take up space and eventually get thrown out, try something different, something unique but without slimming your wallet. There are experiences in this city that you can keep with you forever which are more valuable than any Empire State Building keychain or an I<3NY neon bag, and probably a lot cheaper (unless you’re shopping in Chinatown for these souvenirs).

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  Public Cupping (West Village)

  Toby's Estate Coffee

  Coffee is your lifeline, sure, but have you ever really stopped to appreciate the intricacies that exist within each blend? Get more out of your daily brew by taking part in a public cupping. Cupping is the practice of evaluating roasted coffee, taking into account multiple aspects from production to taste. In this West Village cupping experience designed for all levels, you?ll learn about the history of the ritual and participate in multiple tastings with the guidance of a professional coffee educator.

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  Tour of Brooklyn Brewery

  Brooklyn Brewery

  $8 You love beer so much? Why not take a trip down to Brooklyn and see how it’s made. These tours are a grand total of $8 and will take you around the distillery, show you how one of New York’s favorite beers is made, and will give you a taste of four different beers. This might just be the perfect way to end a long day of work.

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  Belly Dancing

  Harlem Yoga Studio

  $13 Take your next weekend and mess with it. Instead of your usual routine, maybe try something a little out of your comfort zone, like a belly dancing class. Introductory classes are truly the perfect way to be on the same playing field as other people so you don’t have to feel self-conscious.

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  Stand Up Comedy (Fri and Sat)

  EastVille Comedy Club

  $5 When was the last time you laughed so hard your sides hurt or your eyes teared up? There is honestly nothing better you can do to have a good time with your friends or a date, or just on your own, and have a great end to a long week. Don’t forget the beer in hand, though, for extra giggles. Never hurts.

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  Blues Show

  Terra Blues

  $10 A little live music might fit your Saturday night. If you and your friends or your date are looking for an easy night out without having to spend some big bucks on a nice dinner filled with cocktails, check this place out.

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  Samurai Sword Fighting - Tribeca

  Yoshi Amao

  $16 Looking for something new to learn? Looking for something a little different? We find sword fighting to be pretty different. A step up from fencing perhaps? You’ll learn gripping, breathing, footwork and choreography in this class. While this may not be something you bring out for parties, it is still something that will really make you stand apart from the rest.

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  Parkour

  STREB

  $15 Experience the thrill of a New York City without limits. Parkour is high energy and free-thinking. You'll harness your inner acrobat and learn more about agility, spring and spatial awareness. This is the perfect activity for you if you do not enjoy running, but are looking for something to do as a cardio workout. Did we already mention that it’s only $15?

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  Taste of the Lower East Side Food Tour

  Walkin' New York

  $24 If you are a New Yorker and have trouble planning weekends, here’s an idea: spend a Sunday eating your way through the Lower East Side. It has a lot more to offer than just punk kids, boutiques, and Japanese restaurants. This food tour will show you what you’re missing.

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  Basic Pole Dance

  New York Pole Dancing

  $25 Ever thought about changing up your workout routine? Ever thought it could be on a pole seductively sliding down it? For those who don’t know, this gives you quite a workout and is worth checking out if you’re in the mood... if you know what I mean.

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