5 places where you can enjoy art for free in New York

As you travel through NYC’s subway system, it’s not just grit and grime. Founded in the 1980s, the MTA has commissioned over 300 works by emerging and established artists. Witness a wide range of murals, mosaics, poetry, music, digital art, photography. The website can help to identify your faves.

So much valuable art passes through Sotheby’s that it’s worth the trek to the East River – you never know what you might find. Head to the auction rooms on the second floor to marvel at this month’s selection of fine and decorative art, jewelry, and collectibles.

Right off Museum Mile is a beautiful mansion which allows you to admire the building as well as the art inside. The sprawling, 17.500-square-foot space plays up its original architectural elements – like its sweeping spiral staircase, enhanced by an 86-foot chandelier and beautiful parquet flooring. The museum is small, so works as a quick add-on to your other major museums in the area.

Almost every museum in New York has a day or time where admission is free, or pay-what-you-wish. Some museums are always free, so do check out the websites for each place that interests you and plan ahead. Or if you’d like a comprehensive list, head to the NYC Tourism website.

Massive sculptures grace the lawns of Madison Square Park on an ongoing basis. Art works on view are presented by Madison Square Park Conservancy. While in the park, hit the line and enjoy a famous Shake Shack burger.