Whether the school-year is in full swing or it's an easy-going summer day, families are always looking for ways to spend time together without spending money.
Below are 9 totally FREE things to do with kids and families right now in New City – Nyack and nearby. These ideas are low-cost, low-stress, and actually doable — perfect for those times when simple fun is all you want. Which ones will you try first?
9 Free Things for Families to Do in the New City and Nyack Area Right Now
1. Explore Your Local Library in New City, Nyack and Rockland County
Libraries in the New City and Nyack area offer more than books — they’re a year-round, budget-friendly lifesaver. Look for free storytimes, LEGO clubs, STEM activities, reading challenges, teen hangouts, craft days, and surprise pop-up events. We suggest confirming if registration is required or if you need to be a member first!
➡️ Tip: Search your Macaroni KID New City – Nyack calendar for upcoming library events all in one place. You’ll be shocked how many are free!
2. Check the Macaroni KID New City – Nyack Events Calendar for Free Events
If you ever catch yourself saying, “There’s nothing to do,” this is your fix. Our Macaroni KID New City - Nyack events calendar is packed with family-friendly happenings — and we include as many free events in New City - Nyack as we can find.
➡️ Subscribe now and we’ll send you a free weekly newsletter with event highlights!
3. Walk or Bike Over the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
Get your steps in and enjoy scenic Hudson River views from this unique vantage point at the same time! The Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Path is 3.6 miles long and marked by six overlooks; each stop showcases a different aspect of local New York Hudson Valley history. The landings at the two ends of the bridge offer Welcome Centers, public art, restrooms, and interactive kiosks with info on nearby restaurants and attractions. Plus, there are options for public transportation for those who prefer to skip the walk back!
➡️ Fun Fact: Did you know a nest box was installed at the top of the bridge for to provide shelter two endangered falcon? There's actually a live webcam up there too.
4. Visit a New City – Nyack Park or Playground
Pick a local park, trail, or playground in New City - Nyack you never have been to previously and go for a “fresh air reset.” Let the kids compete to find the coolest rocks, compare playground slides and climbing structures, or race through sprinklers if there happens to be a splash pad! Here are a a few area parks worth exploring:
- Memorial Park in Nyack, NY
- Germonds Park in West Nyack, NY
- Bowline Point Park in Haverstraw, NY
➡️ Send us your playground and outdoor fun pictures and you could be featured on our website or social media pages!
5. Catch a Glimpse of History at Stony Point Battlefield in Stony Point, NY
The Stony Point Battlefield is generally open to the public year-round, and offers free activities and demonstrations on weekends from April-October. The site offers a museum and is home to one of the oldest lighthouse's on the Hudson River. Check the website or call for operating hours and select program fees.
 Image Credit: NY State Parks & Historic Sites |
6. Hike to Buttermilk Falls in West Nyack, NY
The Buttermilk Falls County Park offers scenic kid-friendly trails to the waterfalls and stream, interesting trees and wildlife, parking, and — it's free!
➡️ Know before you go: learn more here!
7. Visit the Edward Hopper House Museum in Nyack, NY
The Edward Hopper House Museum provides free admission for children under 18, as well as special discounts on adult admission. On Family Art Days -- typically once a month -- children and caregivers can visit and enjoy an arts and crafts activity at no cost.
➡️ Tip: Make the day even more memorable with this self-guided walking tour of Hopper's Nyack!
Want more family fun that doesn’t blow your budget?
Check out our partner site, CertifiKID, for deals on attractions, experiences, and family fun across the country.
8. Make a Free Scavenger Hunt in Your Neighborhood
Turn an ordinary walk into a mission. Create a quick scavenger hunt: a red door, a heart sticker, a dog in a sweater, a street sign with your kid’s first initial, a bird, a funny mailbox — you get the idea. Kids love a checklist, and you’ll love how easy it is.
➡️ Idea: Grab a free scavenger hunt checklist template from a creative app like Canva and customize it for your town!
9. Create a “Yes Day” at Home (Totally Free Edition)
If you need an easy win, do a mini “Yes Day” using free choices only. Let kids pick from a short list of free ideas like build a blanket fort, family dance party, board game hour, movie night at home, bake something simple, or “breakfast for dinner.”
➡️ Tip: Call it a “Yes Hour” if a whole day feels… ambitious.
Whether you’re planning ahead or need something to do this week, these free things for families in New City - Nyack make it easy to spend quality time together without spending a dime.
