Make The Most of Midtown: Free Fun by Madame Tussauds

Published: April 6, 2026
kids enjoying madame tussauds

So, you’ve ticked Madame Tussauds off your NYC bucket list and posed with wax versions of Hollywood’s best and brightest. Now what? Good news: the magic doesn’t dim outside the museum! In the heart of Midtown, you’re steps from a treasure trove of free experiences, from dazzling public art to world-famous street scenes, secret green spaces, and history lessons hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a streetwise local on a mission to save, we’ve rounded up our favorite totally free things to do near Madame Tussauds. Camera phones at the ready—there’s a lot you’ll want to capture. 

Our fave free things to do near Madame Tussauds in New York City include: 

Times Square People Watching 

Bryant Park Relaxation 

New York Public Library 

Rockefeller Center Public Art 

Midtown Mod Art Tour 

Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral 

Grand Central Terminal 

The High Line Entry 

Hudson Yards Public Spaces 

Times Square People Watching 

Nothing says “you’re in New York” quite like Times Square. It’s bright, bustling, and only a quick stroll from Madame Tussauds. The best part? Soaking up the atmosphere doesn’t cost a cent. Plant yourself near the famous red steps, gaze up at the neon billboards, and watch everything from breakdancers to birthday flash mobs play out right before your eyes.  

Come early for a low-key vibe or after dusk for pure sensory overload as crowds, costumes, and cabs swirl past. The area buzzes with characters straight out of a movie, making it a prime spot for people-watching, spontaneous street performances, and neon-lit selfies. Grab a coffee from a street cart, settle in, and let Midtown’s pulse entertain you. 

Bryant Park Relaxation

Bryant Park is Midtown’s backyard—just a ten-minute walk from Madame Tussauds, and always abuzz with activity you can dive into without opening your wallet. Lounge on the lawn with skyscrapers as your backdrop or join a crowd around the chess tables. Depending on the season, you might catch outdoor movie nights or pop-up yoga sessions, all at no cost.  

The park’s gardens, carousel tunes, and moveable chairs invite you to kick back and watch goings-on at your own pace. Want a book break? The Bryant Park Reading Room offers free reads under the trees. In winter, browse the holiday market and skate rink action (watching is free, renting skates is not). There’s never a dull moment or a charge for park entry. 

New York Public Library 

Just across the street from Bryant Park, the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a must for architecture buffs and readers alike. Step into this stunning Beaux-Arts landmark for free. Take in the grand marble staircases, lion statues, and dramatic reading rooms (especially the Rose Main Reading Room, a masterpiece in itself).  

The library often hosts free exhibitions, showcasing treasures like vintage maps, rare manuscripts, and literary relics. Make sure to peek into the ever-photogenic Astor Hall—its soaring ceilings and stone arches are pure Midtown magic. Whether you grab a brochure or wander aimlessly, it’s an atmosphere that inspires instant awe—and the price is always right. 

Rockefeller Center Public Art 

Who says you need to pay for a tour to enjoy one of Midtown’s top attractions? Rockefeller Center’s free public art makes any midday wander an adventure. The plazas and concourses feature work by celebrated artists—look for murals by José Maria Sert, fanciful sculptures, and seasonal installations (think blooming gardens in spring or whimsical displays in winter).  

Outdoor seating lets you linger and plan your next move while soaking up the Manhattan hustle. If you visit during the holidays, take in the flagship Christmas tree and magical window displays—it’s a sight families flock to, with zero admission charge. Keep an eye out for live music, free festivals, and the endless parade of skaters gliding by (spectating always free from the sidelines). 

Midtown Mod Art Tour 

Turn the sidewalks of Midtown into your own open-air gallery with a self-guided tour of public sculptures and murals. From the LOVE sculpture at 55th and Sixth to Tony Rosenthal’s Astor Place Cube, the district is dotted with artistic gems. Along the way, you might spot gigantic buttons on Seventh Avenue (the Garment Worker sculpture) or striking mosaic subway entrances at nearby stations.  

Snap quirky photos for your feed, spotting as many pieces as you can without ever opening your wallet. Between installations, the contrast of old-school architecture and new-age billboards is its own work of art. 

Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market 

Ready for a dash of retro flair? Wander over to the Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market, a local legend just a short stroll from Madame Tussauds. Entry is free, and even window shopping here is pure entertainment. Haggling vendors, vintage finds, quirky collectibles, and countless characters make every browse an adventure.  

You’ll spot antique signage, vinyl records, costume jewelry, and, often, roaming local artists eager to chat. The market’s lively atmosphere channels classic NYC sidewalk energy—don’t be surprised if you lose track of time digging through treasures or marveling at the crowd. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Step into a peaceful oasis that feels world’s away from Midtown’s noise—St. Patrick’s Cathedral charges no admission to wander its awe-inspiring halls. Gaze up at stained-glass windows, intricate stonework, and soaring gothic arches. The immense interior fills with quiet light, inviting you to pause, reflect, or just appreciate the craftsmanship.  

The cathedral is open daily for self-guided tours (and you’ll almost always catch the sound of the mighty pipe organ echoing through the vast nave). Don’t skip the crypt or smaller chapels nestled along the sides—it’s all part of this unforgettable New York experience. 

Grand Central Terminal 

One of the city’s true showpieces, Grand Central Terminal is an easy fifteen-minute walk from Madame Tussauds, and you don’t need a ticket to explore its grandeur. Cruise through the Main Concourse, head thrown back, to gawk at the celestial ceiling mural or the famed four-faced clock.  

Peek at historic features like the whispering gallery or Vanderbilt Hall’s gleaming marble. You’ll often stumble on free musical performances or pop-up public art installations—just check the information desk or follow your senses. The whole place buzzes with activity, yet a certain old-world elegance always shines through, making it one of Manhattan’s top free sights. 

The High Line Entry 

See Midtown from above—without a rooftop bar bill—by visiting the northern entrance of The High Line, just a quick subway hop (or longer walk) from Times Square. This elevated park weaves through Chelsea’s former rail lines, featuring gardens, art installations, and skyline views.  

Stroll at your own pace: linger on benches, snap public sculptures, and take in murals across neighboring buildings. The High Line’s landscaping is constantly changing, with plants and flowers reflecting the season. It’s the ultimate urban walk for those who want a combo of greenery and city grit, all with zero admission. 

Hudson Yards Public Spaces 

Say hello to Manhattan's newest playground—Hudson Yards’ public plazas and gardens are free to enter and packed with excitement for your camera (and your wallet). Looped walkways offer dazzling architectural views, from the spiral staircase of The Vessel (walking the steps is ticketed, but photos outside are always free) to the “Edge” skydeck’s dramatic outline.  

Beyond the Instagram opportunities, you can people-watch in the plaza, enjoy open-air art installations, or join outdoor events hosted on the lawns. Splurge on nothing and leave with memories (and photos) that rival any paid attraction. 

 

Whether you’re killing time before your next show or determined to do NYC on a dime, these free experiences near Madame Tussauds show that Midtown’s best moments don’t come with a price tag. Enjoy more, spend less—welcome to the real New York! 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out the best walking tours in the city, and discover everything to do and see in Queens. 

Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  

See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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Shamrocks, Parades & Pints: NYC’s St. Patrick’s Day Musts

St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is the ultimate blend of old Irish tradition and unstoppable city energy. Every March 17, the city transforms into a sea of green, with marching bands echoing down Fifth Avenue, historic bars bustling with revelers, and plenty of Guinness to go around! From jaw-dropping views to hearty plates of shepherd’s pie, New York has endless ways to join the fun—whether you’re up for a lively parade or just want to soak in the atmosphere at a snug Irish pub. Stick with us as we round up the best ways for visitors to celebrate, eat, toast, and explore on St. Patrick’s Day in the Big Apple.  Our favorite ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC include:  The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade  St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour  The Dead Rabbit  Central Park strolls (or bike rides!)  Landmark Cruise by Circle Line  Irish Arts Center  Molly’s Shebeen  The High Line  McSorley’s Old Ale House  Traditional Irish music at Connolly’s  St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour  There’s no grander way to link NYC to its Irish roots than a stroll through St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Not only is it a spectacular feat of neo-Gothic architecture, but it also stands at the heart of most St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. When you wander inside, soaring arches and sun-lit stained glass create a moment of peace away from the city clamor. On St. Paddy’s Day, the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation—expect lines of people eager to see the Mass and join in the day’s traditions. Docents share tidbits on the building’s Irish inspiration, and the marble altars and chapels offer plenty of Instagram-worthy snapshots. It feels both reverent and alive, with echoes of the parade just blocks away.  The Dead Rabbit  For an Irish pub with a splash of Lower Manhattan swagger, The Dead Rabbit knocks it out of the park. This multi-level spot in the Financial District draws inspiration from both Belfast’s bars and New York’s gritty 19th-century taverns. Expect lots of exposed brick, cozy corners, and an energy that splits the difference between old-school and adventurous. Their cocktail game is unmatched: everyone raves about the Irish Coffee, which layers smooth whiskey, hot coffee, and chill cream just right. Snack on sausage rolls or try the Guinness beef pot pie for a true taste of the Emerald Isle. And if you visit on St. Patrick’s Day, expect live music, happy crowds, and plenty of good cheer.  Central Park Strolls or Bike Rides  Swap parade crowds for a green escape right in the city: Central Park. Around March, the park begins to bloom, and it’s an amazing place to walk off that full Irish breakfast (or to find a new appreciation for your mossy-green surroundings). Grab a bike from Unlimited Biking and pedal past winding paths, scenic bridges, and charming statues all decked out for the festivities. Central Park offers endless photo spots—from Bow Bridge to the famed Bethesda Terrace—and the air feels crisp with spring promise. On St. Paddy’s, you’ll spot plenty of green-clad groups and maybe even some pipers squeezing in a tune. Few city experiences rival the joy of carving out a little tranquility surrounded by so much local life.  Landmark Cruise by Circle Line  The best way to see New York shimmer in green (and maybe catch some cheeky riverfront celebrations)? Hop on a Landmark Cruise by Circle Line. Gliding along the Hudson offers front-row views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and that stunning midtown skyline. On St. Patrick’s Day, keep your eyes peeled—some boats run special themed cruises with Irish cocktails, festive décor, and even green lighting that reflects off the water. The vibe on board is always festive, with music, themed narration, and happy toasts to luck and friendship rippling from bow to stern. Whether you want city photos or simply a break from bustling Midtown, a river cruise delivers a real sense of New York grandeur.  Irish Arts Center  Discover how New York’s Irish community continues to shape the city’s culture at the Irish Arts Center. Tucked in Hell’s Kitchen, this venue celebrates all things Irish—music, dance, poetry, and more. The center comes alive during St. Patrick’s week, hosting concerts, storytelling sessions, and theater that dive into both old legends and modern Irish voices. The small theater and friendly bar make it easy to mingle and soak up the atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if you’re tapping a foot to traditional fiddles one minute and laughing at sharp-witted Irish stand-up the next. If you’re up for something uniquely heartfelt, this is the spot.  The High Line  Elevate your St. Patrick’s Day with a walk along the High Line—a rails-to-trails park perched above Manhattan’s West Side. As you stroll past public art, urban gardens, and stunning river views, the city buzzes below but somehow feels miles away. During St. Patrick’s week, look out for groups in green taking selfies and artists staging pop-up performances. Pair your High Line wander with a stop at Chelsea Market for a quick coffee or bakery treat, then keep walking north to catch a slice of the city’s life from a new perspective. After all, nothing says “luck” like stumbling onto a pocket of calm right above the fray.  McSorley’s Old Ale House  History buffs and beer lovers alike will get a kick out of McSorley’s Old Ale House, East Village’s venerable watering hole that’s been serving New Yorkers since the days of Lincoln. With sawdust on the floor, walls plastered with old photos, and an irresistible sense of timeworn charm, McSorley’s keeps things simple: your choice of light or dark ale, delivered by the half-pint. On St. Paddy’s Day, the atmosphere hits another level: live music, raucous singing, and a crowd determined to celebrate. The cheese and onion cracker plate is a classic, and every surface (including your shoes) is a testament to decades of good times.  Traditional Irish Music at Connolly’s  If toe-tapping music and rowdy singalongs are your jam, Connolly’s (near Times Square) hosts one of the city’s best St. Patrick’s Day parties. Their second-floor stage fills with fiddlers, drummers, and Irish bands covering everything from heartbreak ballads to whiskey-soaked reels. Friendly bartenders keep the pints flowing, and the crowd’s energy surges as each set begins. The menu even features a mean corned beef sandwich and perfectly crispy fish-and-chips. Pull up a table, order a round, and let the rhythms guide you into the spirit of the Emerald Isle—without ever leaving Midtown.    With so many ways to go green in New York, you’ll find the city pulses with Irish pride and infectious fun on St. Patrick’s Day, no matter your crowd or comfort zone. Whether you dive into the city’s history, soak up skyline views, or simply toast new friends over a cold pint, every experience adds a little magic to your trip. Here’s to discovering those unforgettable moments—may the luck of the Irish find you all day long!    Quick Recap of NYC St. Patrick’s Day Tips  Embrace the spirit: Wear something green, bring your cheer, and be ready to mingle.  Arrive early: Parade spots and the best bars fill up fast—get a jump on the crowds for the prime experience.  Mix old and new: Don’t just follow the parade—peek into cathedral tours, stroll through arts venues, visit super-historic taverns, and hit up local music hot spots.  Eat hearty: St. Patrick’s is the perfect excuse to indulge in Irish classics you won’t soon forget (don’t skip that shepherd’s pie or Irish coffee).  Enjoy city views: NYC’s skyline, parks, and riverfront never disappoint—especially when reflected in festive green.    Here’s wishing you a happy and unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day in New York—may mischief, music, and memories await around every corner! Sláinte!  Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the city’s best places of worship, and burn some St. Paddy’s calories on these walking tours.   Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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Spooky Season in the City: Top Halloween Happenings in NYC

Ready for a Halloween you’ll be talking about long after the jack-o’-lanterns flicker out? New York City transforms into a playground for the spooky, the spectacular and the downright strange every October. Whether you want to parade with thousands of costumed revelers, explore haunted history, or just find a cozy spot for cider and candy, NYC serves up treats for every kind of Halloween lover. This city doesn’t just do Halloween—it owns it. Read on for our absolute favorite ways to celebrate Halloween in New York, guaranteed to help you craft the ultimate October itinerary.  Our top picks for Halloween fun in NYC include:  Village Halloween Parade  Ghosts of Greenwich Village Tour by Top Dog Tours  Madame Tussauds New York  RiseNY  The High Line  Pumpkin Flotilla at Central Park  American Museum of Natural History  Rooftop Bars with Fall Cocktails  The Cathedral of St. John the Divine  Village Halloween Parade: NYC’s Outrageous Costume Carnival  If there’s only one Halloween event you make it to in New York, let it be the Village Halloween Parade. Every October 31st, the streets of Greenwich Village burst into life as a river of zombies, witches, Marvel superheroes, and original costumes march up Sixth Avenue. The parade is famously wild—in the best way possible. We love the energy: the live bands, giant puppets swaying overhead, dancers on stilts, and joyful crowds cheering from the sidewalks.  Feel like joining the fun? If you’re in costume, you’re invited to participate! There’s something magical about walking with thousands of fellow ghosts and monsters through a sea of city lights. If you’d rather spectate, arrive early to snag a viewing spot near the start of the route for the best sights (and photo ops). The atmosphere is pure celebration—welcoming, weird, creative and always friendly. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the excitement. The Village Halloween Parade sums up exactly why Halloween in NYC is the stuff of legends.  Madame Tussauds New York: Strike a Pose with Monsters and Movie Magic  In the mood for some frightfully fun photo ops? Head to Madame Tussauds in Times Square, where the usual lineup of celebrities, superheroes and pop icons gets a Halloween twist each October. Think: movie villains lurking in shadowy corners, a haunted chamber where horror comes to life, and a chance to snap a selfie with wax figures you’d swear were about to move.  It’s an atmosphere packed with playful energy, surprise scares and non-stop entertainment. If you’re traveling with kids or friends who aren’t keen on true horror, Madame Tussauds delivers just the right balance of goofy and ghostly. The themed sections make every room a new adventure—one minute you’re hanging with Dracula, the next you’re channeling your inner Ghostbuster! Top tip: check out any seasonal events or late-night openings for extra spooky fun.  RiseNY: Time-Travel Through NYC’s Most Spellbinding Moments  If you love the feeling of being swept up in the city’s stories, RiseNY’s immersive experience is a can’t-miss. Step inside and take a “flying” journey over the skyline—costume or no costume, it’s a thrilling way to see New York from a whole new angle. Around Halloween, the pop culture and history exhibits get extra atmospheric, sometimes with themed displays or trivia for the season.  It’s the details that win us over: animated sets, surprising special effects, and echoes of NYC’s famous pop culture moments that blend nostalgia with excitement. Whether you want a break from walking (or just a unique, family-friendly experience), RiseNY always adds a spark of city magic—and it’s a brilliant indoor backup on a chilly October evening.  The High Line: Go Ghost-Hunting on an Urban Park in the Sky  If you love a walk with spectacular city views and a dash of eerie ambiance, head to The High Line after dusk. This elevated park—built on old railway tracks—takes on a mysterious charm as the sun sets. Halloween sees pumpkin displays, pop-up performances and sometimes “ghost train” events for families. It’s a wonderful place to spot creative costumes as locals and visitors explore lantern-lit pathways.  We recommend starting in the Chelsea Market area (grab a hot apple cider, or treat yourself to a seasonal pastry) then sauntering north along the High Line’s winding route. There’s something atmospheric about city lights twinkling all around—especially when you catch glimpses of the Empire State Building’s seasonal orange-and-black glow in the distance. Whether you’re ghost-hunting or just soaking in autumn beauty, The High Line delivers that satisfyingly cinematic New York Halloween mood.  American Museum of Natural History: Spooky Science and Fun for All  Halloween is the perfect excuse to explore the American Museum of Natural History, where dino bones and planetarium shows get a seasonal upgrade. Each October, the museum hosts a Halloween party with costumed characters, trick-or-treat stations, and hands-on science activities. Picture little vampires swooping through dinosaur halls, superheroes exploring meteorites, and even grown-ups getting in on the costume action.  What’s so special about Halloween here? You get fun and education bundled together, plus the thrill of exploring vast halls after hours. The museum’s architecture—from echoing stone staircases to shadowy corners—adds to that sense of old-school adventure. Check the calendar for this year’s family-friendly programs, and don’t forget to snap a selfie with the world-famous blue whale—who sometimes dresses up for the occasion!  Rooftop Bars with Fall Cocktails: Toast to Chills & Thrills  Not all Halloween festivities need to involve jump scares. For those who prefer their frights with a view, New York’s rooftop bars offer an unbeatable perch to soak in the city’s Halloween buzz. Imagine sipping a pumpkin-spiced old fashioned or a smoky mezcal margarita while gazing across twinkling city lights and catching glimpses of costumed crowds far below. Our favorite sky-high haunts deck themselves out for the season—expect cobwebbed décor, black-and-orange lanterns, and bone-chilling playlist to set the mood.  Try 230 Fifth, where you can wrap up in a cozy robe on their heated rooftop and sip apple cider with a cinnamon stick, or head to The Roof at PUBLIC for an ultra-stylish vibe and panoramic downtown views. Some spots, like Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge, host legendary Halloween parties, complete with themed menus, Instagrammable pumpkin installations, and live DJs who keep the energy high. If you time it right, you’ll catch the Empire State Building lit up for Halloween, a true only-in-NYC spectacle. We love that you can blend sophisticated city style with playful Halloween spirit—no costumes required (but highly encouraged!). The Cathedral of St. John the Divine: Halloween with Sacred Drama  Looking for a Halloween experience that blends grandeur, art, and a hint of the supernatural? St. John the Divine, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, offers something truly memorable each October: the Halloween Extravaganza and crypt crawl. Picture this—a solemn procession of candlelight, costumed devils and angels, and the mighty cathedral organ roaring to life for a screening of The Hunchback of Notre Dame or Phantom of the Opera. The immense stone arches and flickering shadows turn a classic movie night into high drama.  After the show, you can join a guided walk through the cathedral’s crypt, where legends and spirits lurk according to the storytellers. It’s spooky (in a gothic, genteel way), and completely distinctive. Whether you’re an architecture fan, a theater lover, or just searching for one of New York’s most singular Halloween experiences, St. John the Divine never disappoints. Don’t forget to check their calendar—this popular event often sells out!  Bonus: Themed Pop-Ups and Seasonal Treats All Over Town  No Halloween in New York is complete without sampling the city’s ever-inventive pop-up bars, costume shops, and bakeries filled with pumpkin pie and candy corn cupcakes. Swing by Butterbeer Bar (just steps from Madame Tussauds!) for a magical, Potter-esque treat, or explore Little Italy and Chinatown for ghostly pastries and witch’s brew bubble tea. Sweet tooths, don’t miss Breads Bakery’s black-and-orange challah or Petee’s Pie Company’s apple crumb slices.  And for those who can’t get enough costumes, Ricky’s NYC and Abracadabra are legendary sources for everything from vampire fangs to full masquerade ball finery. With so much happening on nearly every block, you’re never far from some new seasonal surprise.    Ready to cast your spell on the city? However you choose to celebrate—whether you’re gazing down from a rooftop, exploring haunted history or just soaking up the city’s autumn glow—Halloween in NYC promises more treats than tricks and memories that last long after October ends.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to New York at night, and which tourist traps to avoid.  Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®   We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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