Best free things to do today in New York City
Looking for a gratis event going down today? We’ve got you covered! Discover the top free things to do right now.
So you’re pinching pennies and bored. We’ve been there. But that’s no reason to stay in your apartment! Get outside and check out these cool free things to do.
RECOMMENDED: Full list of free things to do in NYC
The Armada Fania Club & Pop-Up Store
- Critics choice
- Free
The famed Latin music label Fania hosts this combination pop-up store and party in the heart of Bushwick. There will be plenty of Fania merchandise and records to be had, of course—including the new Armada Fania compilation, featuring remixes of classic tunes—along with a lineup of DJs that boasts Louie Vega (whose new Elements of Life record was just released on the label), Tony Touch, the Que Bajo bunch, DJ Turmix, the D'Marquesina duo and Whiskey Barons. R.S.V.P. (it's a must) at fania.com/armada.
The Armada Fania Club & Pop-Up Store
- Critics choice
- Free
Latin music label Fania Records hosts this temporary record store and party space to celebrate the release of new remix comp Armada Fania. DJs manning the decks include Louie Vega, Tony Touch, Que Bajo and D’Marquesina. The 1896, 215 Ingraham St between Gardner and Stewart Aves, Bushwick, Brooklyn. Subway: L to Jefferson St.
- Temporary space
- Fri May 24 - Sat May 25
BLDG 92
- Critics choice
- Free
The visitors’ center at the former shipbuilding complex offers information on the facility and its connection to the surrounding neighborhoods. Plan an afternoon trip to check out its core exhibit, “Brooklyn Navy Yard: Past, Present and Future,” which examines the space’s historical significance and future plans. Weekend tours of the yard itself are available by bus and bike ($18–$30). A free weekend shuttle departs from Jay St at Willoughby St.
"Chuck Close: Photo Maquettes"
- Critics choice
- Free
A kind of retrospective in miniature, this show features the large-format photos and polaroids that Close used throughout his career to paint his signature portrait heads. Crop marks, overlaid grids and even the artist's fingerprints are all clearly visible on these artifactual remains of the creative process.
- Eykyn Maclean 23 E 67th St, between Fifth and Madison Aves, second floor, 10065
- Fri May 24
Bruce Conner
- Critics choice
- Free
Conner (1933–2008), a legendary Bay Area artist and filmmaker, is recalled in this exhibition, which presents some of his inkblot drawings made between 1962 and 2000. On view as well is Conner's film Easter Morning, which was shot in San Francisco on a single day in 1966, but wasn't completed until shortly before his death.
- Paula Cooper Gallery 521 W 21st St, between Tenth and Eleventh Aves
- Fri May 24 - Sat Jun 22
Most popular
- 100 best New York restaurants
- Your perfect weekend
- Events calendar for 2013: The essential events in NYC this year
- Summer concerts in NYC: full concert schedule for New York shows
- New York attractions: The 50 best sights and attractions in NYC
- Weekend getaways from NYC: Quick, easy and affordable escapes
- 50 best New York bars
- Free things to do in NYC: Your guide to gratis entertainment
- The best brunch in NYC 2012: Your guide to a late breakfast
- Best beaches in New York City
Sign up for the TONY Daily Newsletter!
Get a heads-up on the best things to do each day, delivered to your inbox first thing every morning.
Comments & ratings