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The Best Free Things To Do In NYC

Seeing the sights of New York City doesn't have to cost you a dime. Check out these free events and attractions that will make any tourist or New Yorker happy. By Carly Petrone.

Comedy Night at The Knit "Front Bar"

Comedy Night
(credit: )

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Spend your Sunday night laughing at The Knitting Factory. Every week Will Miles, Clark Jones, and Kenny DeForest host Comedy Night with some of New York's funniest taking the mike. Started by fellow comedian Hannibal Buress (Broad City), five years ago, this free show continues to bring big names to Brooklyn. Past performers have included Aziz Ansari, Louis C.K., Sarah Silverman, and Chris Rock. Show starts at 9 p.m.

Beer Tasting at Bierkraft

Bierkraft
(credit: Bierkraft)

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Tuesday nights just got more exciting! Stop by Bierkraft in Brooklyn for a refreshing beer tasting starting at 7 p.m. Enjoy free brews and nibbles and learn more about what's on tap at this Park Slope shop. Fill up a growler or sign up for the Beer of the Month club on your way out.

Bingo

Freaks and Geeks
(credit: videology.info)

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This isn't your Grandma's bingo. Stop into Videology in Williamsburg for one of their fun TV-themed bingo nights. Laugh along to cult favorites like Freaks and Geeks while putting a chip down every time someone says "mathlete" or makes a Star Wars reference. Bring friends or make new ones at this fun free event. Game begins at 9 p.m. on most Wednesdays. Check website for other cool free screenings and games like Movie Trivia night and the Local Filmmaker Showcase.

Ride Through Central Park

Biking In NYC
Getty Images

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Go for a bike or sleigh ride through Central Park at night with the folks from Time's Up. Due to all the snow we're having, their switching out bikes for sleds so bring yours and a hot drink and have some fun. Meet at 8 p.m. at Central Park's Cedar Hill and find your favorite sledding spot. Next month, it's back to biking at 10 p.m., where you can see the ponds, waterways, vistas, and structures by moonlight. Meet at Columbus Circle and don't forget your helmet!

SonyWonder
Kids play at Sony Wonder. (Image from www.wondertechlab.sony.com)

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Visit the Sony Wonder Technology Lab for free and enjoy a day of interactive exhibits, workshops, and even movie screenings. The SWTL aims to educate and cultivate the next generation of leaders in media, science, technology, and the arts. There are over 20 exhibit areas and 61 interactive exhibit stations to peruse through and it's a great place to take the entire family with events like Tech for Tots and other family-centric workshops. Just make sure to RSVP and secure your spot via email (or call 212-833-8100).

St. Patrick's Old Cathedral
St. Patrick's Old Cathedral/Flickr

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Enjoy a bit of solace or just take in the view of St. Patrick's Cathedral. Architect James Renwick designed the massive building in the American Gothic Revival style. It took nearly half a century to build and the workmanship shows with pointed, ribbed vaults and huge stained glass windows adorning this magnificent site. All tours begin at 10 a.m. and group tours for 10 or more must be scheduled in advance. Pick something up at the gift shop as a souvenir or take a virtual tour using their Cathedral Tour App. There's a reason why over 5 million people visit St. Patrick's Cathedral every year. Check it out for yourself.

For the latest on all of the Tri-State's events and happenings, follow us on Twitter!

Carly Petrone is a freelance writer living in New York City.

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