Empire State Building

Instead of seeing the sights from the top of the Empire State Building, take in the city skyline (for free) on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

Little Italy

Instead of being gouged for “Italian” food in Little Italy, go to Arthur Avenue.

Yankee Stadium

Instead of watching the Yankees play at Yankee Stadium, cheer on the minor leagues at a Staten Island baseball game.

Central Park

Instead of battling tourists at Central Park, head to the more low key (and gorgeous) Prospect Park.

Century 21

Instead of going to Century 21 for discounted designer fashions, hit up a real NYC sample sale!

Statue of Liberty

Instead of paying a fee to visit the Statue of Liberty, take a free trip to Staten Island and wave to Lady Liberty from the water.

Rockefeller Center

Instead of spending a fortune to ice skate at Rockefeller Center, skate at the less-crowded McCarren Rink in Brooklyn.

Meatpacking District

Instead of going clubbing in the Meatpacking District, head to where all the cool kids are in Brooklyn.

Grimaldi’s Pizza

Instead of Grimaldi’s Pizza in DUMBO, head down the street to Juliana’s Pizza.

Times Square

Instead of going to Times Square, go literally anywhere else.