10 Smart NYC Hacks for Students
Reading time: 2 min
10 Smart NYC Hacks for Students
Reading time: 2 min
10 Smart NYC Hacks for Students
Reading time: 2 min
Tip 1
Free boat ride with a view: Staten Island Ferry
Want to see NYC without spending a dime? Hop on the Staten Island Ferry! It’s a free ride with epic views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Great for photos and a breath of fresh air away from the crowds.
Whitehall Terminal, Manhattan
Best time: Sunset – for magical colors.
Tip 2
Drinks with a view: 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Craving a drink with a view of the Empire State Building? 230 Fifth hits the spot — but you must be 21+ to order alcohol. Drinks start around $10.
230 Fifth Ave, Manhattan
Best time: During happy hour or just before sunset for peak vibes.
Tip 3
Art that hits different: American Folk Art Museum
Get a culture fix near Lincoln Center — for free. This museum showcases unique work by self-taught artists, far from the typical tourist trail.
2 Lincoln Square, Manhattan
Open: Tuesday to Sunday
Go in the morning for a quieter visit.
Tip 4
All-ages dancing: Nublu
Nublu in East Village is a music hub with live bands and DJs — and no age limit. Great for students who want to party without the 21+ stress. Drinks are affordable, and the lineup is always fresh.
151 Avenue C, Manhattan
Check the online calendar for special nights.
Tip 5
Vintage treasures: L Train Vintage
Score stylish, affordable vintage gear: Levi’s from $10, funky jackets from $15. With several locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, weekdays are your best bet to avoid the crowds.
Tip: Hit the Williamsburg store for the best finds.
Tip 6
Rainy day fun: Area 53
Laser tag, mini-golf, roller skating — this place is made for letting off steam with friends.
117 E 53rd St, Manhattan
Reserve ahead on weekends.
Note: Age 18+ to enter.
Tip 7
Hidden art walks: Bushwick stairwell galleries
Discover underground art in unexpected places like stairwells and rooftops. Free events often include live music and drinks — perfect for creative souls.
Art Walks usually happen the first Saturday of the month.
Tip 8
Chill with a twist: Village Underground
This creative space in Williamsburg offers a mix of live music, artsy events, and chill vibes. It’s all-ages and usually free or budget-friendly.
11 N 12th St, Brooklyn
Check their site for current events and hours.
Tip 9
Book heaven: The Strand Bookstore
A legendary second-hand bookstore where books start at $1. You can easily lose hours wandering the shelves — total NYC vibes.
828 Broadway, Manhattan
Open daily, late
Best time: Early afternoon for fewer crowds.
Tip 10
Cheap eats: Dumplings in Chinatown
Tasty and super affordable: Grab 5 dumplings for $2–$5 at Vanessa’s or Tasty Dumpling. Quick, satisfying, and student-budget approved.
Vanessa’s – 118 Eldridge St
Tasty Dumpling – 97 Bayard St, Manhattan
Go on weekdays during the day to skip the lines.
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