The Top 10 Free Activities Manhattan Has to Offer

In a city full of high prices (Really, the rent’s too damn high), many people lack a disposable income to try new adventures. Often opting for a night at home and too embarrassed to perfect the art of the mooch, you need to know there’s a solution. Here’s a secret. Not everything here costs $$$.

They say, “Nothing in life is free.” Well, they obviously missed these activities NYC offers.

• 1
  

  Intro to Improv

  Magnet Theater - Studio

  We’re all have a story to tell--whether or not we know it yet. If you’re story involves a pregnant mother of four whose firstborn is a bonobo, then an improv class may be the perfect way to tell this story. In a fun and relaxing environment, you’ll learn the art of making stuff up. Simply by saying “yes...and,” you’ll quickly be on your way to tackle any problem...even if it’s birthing a monkey.

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• 2
  

  Learn to Mime - Trial Class

  Richmond Shepard

  …....... ... .... ...... .......... ... . you got all of that, right?

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• 3
  

  Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

  Free Tours By Foot

  When you want to learn more about American history, you probably assume you should head to Philadelphia or Washington D.C. But did you ever think to look right here in Manhattan? On this walking tour, learn all about the city?s rich history as you stroll along the ancient streets of the Financial District. From Ellis Island to a Dutch Trading Post to (possibly) the 9/11 Memorial, no stone will be left unturned. By the time this tour?s over, you?ll see Manhattan in a whole new new light.

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• 4
  

  Capoeira - Trial Class

  Nago Academy

  This Afro-Brazilian dance martial-arts combo settles disputes likes a Broadway musical. Through combat and hip hop, you’ll stylishly rock back and forth keeping your opponent off balance and your tango strut on tap. This high-intensity cardio and strength workout promises to rhythmically kick you into shape. Remember though, don’t be a Jet.

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• 5
  

  Boxing - Trial Class -- (vendor delisted MCK, 3/28/17)

  Church Street Boxing

  Streets and stress of NYC bludgeoning you on the daily? Apartment have a few roaches, work grinding your gears, and life gnawing at your bits? You need to fight. Fight the power--wait a second, maybe. Boxing provides a disciplined, body-sculpting workout. Jab your way out of life’s ruts...or challenge someone to a duel.

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• 6
  

  Public Speaking Class (Online)

  Zenspeak

  Were you too nervous and missed the punch line of your joke? Fret not and learn what you need to focus on to become a master communicator. Whether it's delivering a moving speech at the podium or telling a side-splitting joke to some colleagues, learn how to get there with this free class.

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• 7
  

  SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Tour

  Free Tours By Foot

  You've seen the iconic skyscrapers, attended a Broadway show, visited Lady Liberty, and relaxed in Central Park. Looking for a little more from the Big Apple? Maybe it's time to visit some of Manhattan's oldest and most enchanting historic districts. On this tour, you'll take a relaxing stroll through SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown. Gawk at the Fashionistas and cast iron buildings of Soho, visit America's first pizzeria, see famous mafia locations, and take a stab at bargaining with a street vendor in Chinatown. See a side of the city that you won't find on any postcard.

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• 8
  

  Fencing Lesson in the Park

  Manhattan Fencing

  When Captain Jack Sparrow rescued the lovely Miss Swan, you gotta admit, for a second, you thought about committing to piracy. Now, you can rekindle the spirit of the pirate and fight your way to freedom...or a better, quick-reflexed body. With quick feet, fast hands, and a cunning swagger, you’ll be set to rescue a Miss Swan of your own--or ice for your stab wounds.

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• 9
  

  Subway Art Tour

  Free Tours By Foot

  The subway: efficient transit system, meeting place of strange personalities, purveyor of unidentifiable food smells, and now... an art gallery? On this lively walking and subway tour, you will visit over one dozen subway stations, and experience a selection of striking, whimsical works that go largely unnoticed by the general public. Many of these pieces have been right under your nose for decades.

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• 10
  

  Mixed Martial Arts - Trial Class (Vendor closed down 5/31/2022)

  Focus Mixed Martial Arts

  You gotta fight. For your right. To a.....better body.

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