Showing posts with label free. Show all posts
Showing posts with label free. Show all posts

Sunday, January 18, 2015

Find Free and Cheap Events in NYC

When looking for stuff to do in New York, it's easy to become overwhelmed. There are so many events, so many places to see, and so many things to do. It's a downright drag though to find an event that sounds super fun and then realize it costs more than a week's worth of groceries. Thanks, but no thanks. 


Lucky for us nickel-less New Yorkers, we have The Skint. The Skint (which is British slang for poor) is a website that publishes a list of the best free and cheap events happening in New York each day. Posted around 2 PM on weekdays, the list includes events like pop up markets, concerts, lectures, and parties. They also post a weekend report on Friday nights for events happening on Saturday and Sundays. I have been a faithful reader of the Skint for many years now and can honestly say that I've discovered some of my very favorite spots from their recommendations. It is truly the best resource for fun free and cheap events in New York. You don't have to spend an arm and a leg in New York to have a good time, I promise.

So take a peek, you won't be disappointed!

Friday, January 2, 2015

Best Affordable Yoga Studio in NYC

I recently got super into doing yoga. I had no trouble finding a yoga studio, there seems to be one on every block, but I had difficulty finding one that I felt was both well led and affordable. My options were either paying $30 for an hour long class or settling for a free one inside a dingy, sketchy studio. I was determined to find a happy medium so I tested out several different studios that offer inexpensive classes. The best one by far is Yoga to the People.



There are so many things to love about Yoga to the People.

1. All skill levels are welcome- There are beginners and people who look like they've been doing yoga all their lives. Instructors encourage participants to modify or intensify any of the poses according to their skill level. 

2. Classes all the time- there are classes all day, every day so it's easy to find one that fits into your schedule. The classes are on a first come, first serve basis and do not require registration. Classes are popular but in the few month's I've been going, I've only been to two or three class where they reached capacity. 

3. So many locations- there are five studios in NYC so it's easy to find one that's close by.

4. Most importantly for this girl...it's inexpensive. None of the classes cost more than $10 and many are donation based. You leave whatever contribution you can in a tissue box on your way out. There is absolutely no judgement! Patrons who don't want to schlep their mat (or don't have one) can rent a mat for just $2.

Check out their website for the full class schedule and enjoy zenning out without spending an arm and a leg.

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with Yoga to the People in any way and my opinions are entirely my own.

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Get Freebies from Local Businesses using the Paypal Mobile App


Every once in a while there's a deal that just seems too good to be true. When a friend excitedly told me he had gotten free breakfast for a week using the PayPal App, I was skeptical. But never one to pass up a chance for a freebie, I downloaded the app to see what the hype was all about. Here's the skinny:

What is Paypal? An international e-commerce business allowing payments and money transfers to be made through the Internet (Thanks Wikipedia!) Or in other words, it's a way to pay for items without cash or a physical credit card

How does it work? Once you've downloaded the app onto your phone (it's free and compatible for iOS, Android and Windows Phones), you link your account to an existing credit or debit card. You'll be asked to take a photo so that when you make a purchase, participating retailers can verify your identity. The app uses your location to display restaurants and retailers that accept Paypal in the area. Then you can select a restaurant and in some cases order ahead.


How can I get free stuff? The app's "Offer" section is where you'll find freebies and discounts. Businesses that are doing promotions are displayed in this section. The Bean, Pomme Frites, Viva Crepe, and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream are among the business that currently have offers which range from $3 to $10 off any purchase. What's great is that unlike a lot of couponing apps, there's no minimum purchase. In fact, you can redeem the offer for less than the promotional price and save the rest for another visit. For example, I used the $3 off offer at The Bean for an ice coffee and still have 50 cents I can use the next time I order there.

So go ahead and treat yourself to a free cone or coffee or muffin- you deserve it for being so frugal! 

Sunday, July 6, 2014

Free Outdoor Comedy Shows this Summer!


When I hear the words, "free comedy show" I immediately think of wannabe comics performing at an open mic night telling vulgar jokes about their bodily functions and blow jobs. Totally not my scene! So last summer when I heard about Laughter in the Park, a free comedy series in NYC,  I attended with great trepidation. Now having seen several laugh-out-loud funny shows, I recommend them to anyone who will listen. The series is organized by NY Laughs, a non-profit organization dedicated to making the city a better place through humor (seriously, how great is that?!). The shows take place in various parks throughout the summer and draw some awesome comic talent. Past performers include Amy Schumer, Eddie Brill, Reggie Watts, and Christian Finnegan. The series also showcases up-and-coming comedians and has also introduced me to some really great comics who I never would have discovered before... like Chris Distefano (pictured below) who performed at Washington Square Park last year!
Laughter In the Park 2013-Chris Distefano

Laughter in the Park had its 2014 kickoff show today in Central Park and has four more amazing events coming up! 

July 13th
Tompkins Square Park
2-4 PM

July 20th
Washington Square Park
2-4 PM

July 27th
Central Park
2-4 PM

August 2nd
Foley Square
12-12:30 PM

A full lineup of comics for upcoming shows is announced on their website before each event and you can also follow them on Twitter (@nylaughs) to stay updated!

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Shakespeare in the Park...For Free!



It has been way too long since I've posted. Between finals, starting a new internship, and dealing with some major health issues, this blog had to take a backseat for a while. But as summer is kicking into full swing, so am I! Summer is the best season for amazing free and cheap events in the city. Case and point: Shakespeare in the Park.

Since 1962, the Public Theater has been sponsoring free performances of Shakespeare's most iconic plays in Central Park; often casting big name actors like Amy Adams, Meryl Streep, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, and Anne Hathaway. Performed in the open air Delacorte Theater, stadium seating guarantees there is not a bad seat in the house.

This year's performances include Much Ado about Nothing (through July 6th) and King Lear (July 22nd-August 17th). I was so excited when my friend Bekah volunteered to go through the ticketing process (see below). We attended the show last Wednesday. I would not consider myself a Shakespeare fan. In fact I was barely certain I would be able to follow the storyline with all those thee's and thou's much less actually enjoy the play. So I was absolutely shocked when I found myself laughing out loud along with the rest of the audience at the many hilarious jokes and becoming emotionally invested in the romances of the characters. It was truly a great experience and one I would highly recommend to others.

Read on to find out how you can get tickets and my tips for making it the best experience it can be!

Sunday, April 6, 2014

Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry's

Mark your calendars because it's that time of year again! On Tuesday, April 8th, swing by any participating Ben and Jerry's (full list here) for a free cone! If you live in the NYC Metro area there are locations at Macy's Herald Square, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square. This year they'll be offering cones of their tried and true favorites as well as some of their newest flavors like Salted Caramel Blondie, Hazed and Confused, Cotton Candy. Bon Appetit!

Free Cone Day 2013. I could hardly contain my excitement!

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Enjoy Free Gourmet Treats from TableHoppingNY!

TableHoppingNY is a company that partners with restaurants throughout New York to connect customers with culinary experiences in the city. It is a great resource to find restaurants, bars, and events according to your specific tastes and neighborhood. As an added perk, members of TableHopping's mailing list regularly receive exclusive offers for free treats. Registration is easy and, of course, free! Simply fill out their registration form (click here) and you'll begin receiving emails with their exclusive offers. Once you are notified of an offer, simply confirm receipt of the email and they will send you a second email with a confirmation number to show the restaurant when you redeem the offer. Over the past three months, I've received offers for a personal chicken pot pie from Tuckshop, a cupcake from Billy's Bakery, an ice cream sandwich from Melt Bakery, and an order of Pommes Frites among other things. Most of the offers are valid for a limited time so be sure to redeem them promptly after receiving the email. What could be better than opening you're email just to find out that there's a free ice cream sandwich waiting for you just down the street!







Monday, January 20, 2014

Learn Something New at Presentation Party Night

Ever wanted to know the history of the hot sauce industry? Or how stand-up comics develop their material? Maybe you're wondering how the deep web works or how scientists can create burgers using in vitro. These are just some of the many topics that have been explored at the monthly Presentation Party Night held on the 3rd Sunday of every month at Bat Haus in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The event is comprised of a lineup of ten minute presentations. Each presentation is followed by a brief question and answer session. And did I mention that there is free booze and snacks? The Brooklyn Brewery, Brooklyn Salsa Company, and Zico Coconut water sponsor the event and provide gratis food and drink. Many of the guests also bring snacks to share and the spread is usually plentiful.

Photo Credit: PPN Website

Photo Credit: PPN Website

I'll admit the whole idea sounds a little bit crazy and I was pretty apprehensive about going the first time. But I have thoroughly enjoyed each of the Presentation Party Nights I have attended and learned about stuff I would have had no understanding or awareness of had I not gone. The presentations are consistently intriguing, the crowd is always fun, and the free food & drink is just the icing on the cake. The next PPN is on February 16th and is rumored to be Valentines Day themed. I can't wait for the line up of presentations to be announced. Save the date!

Visit their website for more information and like them on Facebook to be notified about upcoming events.

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Free Fitness Classes at JCC on January 1st

Looking for a way to jump-start your New Year's Resolution to get in shape? Or maybe just seeking a way to work off the liquid calories you are going to consume on New Year's Eve? You are in luck! The Jewish Community Center at 334 Amsterdam Avenue and 76th St is hosting their annual New Year's Day Fitness Fair tomorrow. Every year, the center opens its doors to the public and hosts an array of fitness classes free of charge. They have classes all day in everything from Zumba to strength training to self defense. Or if you're in the mood for something a bit tamer (or maybe a little hung over), you can try meditation or yoga. They also are offering free individual nutrition counseling and workshops on topics like personal finance management and overcoming trauma. They recommend you sign up online for the classes you are interested in but will accommodate walk-ins on a first come, first serve basis. Check out the list of classes here. Registration is still open so go ahead and sign up before you head out to your NYE party! I've already registered for a couple. Even if I make it to just one, it's good motivation to get out and exercise on a day that I know I would not have otherwise. Happy New Year!

Jewish Community Center
334 Amsterdam Avenue

Sunday, December 29, 2013

Free Sightseeing NYC: Roosevelt Island Tram

Good views in New York City are pricey! Tourists will pay about thirty dollars just to view the skyline from the top of Rockefeller Center and it costs over forty bucks to see the cityscape from the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building. But there are other somewhat less impressive ways to view the infamous skyline for a fraction of the cost! How? The Roosevelt Island Tram. After a photographer friend showed me some breathtaking shots he had taken while aboard, I was convinced to check it out myself.

The Roosevelt Island Tram operates seven days a week and provides transportation between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island. For one metro-card swipe, you can board the tram in Manhattan at 2nd Avenue and 60th St and enjoy the panoramic view that the three and half minute ride offers. The Chrystler Building, United Nations, and entire East Side are visible as you leisurely travel above the East River. The rain today ruined many of my pictures but Yelpers have posted tons of photos of the view including the ones below.




Once off of the tram, you can board a bus for $.25 that will take you around the perimeter of the two mile island. The parks at either end of Roosevelt Island, conveniently called Northpoint and Southpoint, also offer great views of Manhattan. I imagine on a sunny, warm day that picnicking would be a great idea! 

Granted, the view from the tippy top of a skyscraper is probably more impressive but if you're just looking to gape for a few minutes at the wonder of the man-made effort that is the NYC grid, the Roosevelt Island Tram is a great option!

If you're jonesing for another way to see the city skyline without paying an arm and a leg, check out my post about the Staten Island Ferry

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

#MyKiplingBag Tour Comes to NYC

As I was strolling down Sixth Avenue today on my way home from grocery shopping, I stumbled upon the Kipling Bag Tour Pop Up Store on 29th Street. As I opened the double doors leading into the temporary shop, I entered a warm, sunny, friendly atmosphere. Green grass covers part of the floor, colorful dry erase boards line the wall, and Kipling bags are artfully merchandised where ever I turned. The store will be open from November 12th to 14th and offers an array of amazing services.



Professional makeup artists at your beck and call? Of Course!
Photo booth? Step right up!
Monogramming Service? You bet!
Free Food and Drinks? For sure!

The best part? You guessed it, everything is free! Seriously...everything! I could hardly contain my glee when Megan, one of the makeup artists, offered to do my makeup. Whilst getting pampered, an employee offered me a cold drink and when I was done, I made my way over to the monogramming station where I got to custom design a pen case to take home. To say I left happy is an understatement!



If you are in the area, I highly suggest checking it out since tomorrow is the last day they will be there. They are open from 12 to 9 PM and will be serving "sips" after 7 PM.


835 Sixth Avenue at 29th St
#mykiplingbag

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Boulangerie Picardie Offers Free Coffee and Baked Goods

Boulangerie Picardie

Grey Goose Vodka is sponsoring a pop-up bakery in the West Village through Friday that is offering free baked goods and coffee. Located at 632 Hudson St, the Boulangerie Picardie is treating NYC to custom pastries using the same premium quality wheat that Grey Goose uses to make their vodka. According to a press release, the wheat will be flown in by the pound specifically from the Picardie region of France for the four days that the pop-up bakery is operating. This morning they were offering croissants and mini baguettes. Fancy, huh? Follow Grey Goose on Twitter for more info and be sure to stop by between 8 AM and 6 PM to get your French pastry fix!



 

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Free Yogurt Day on Monday September, 23rd!

Alert frozen yogurt fans! This Monday, Yogurtland is celebrating CBS Premiere Week with free frozen yogurt. Just redeem the online offer on their Facebook page and they'll email you a coupon for 5 oz of the good stuff free! (Link here). There are four locations in New York, including one just a few blocks from FIT for all my fellow classmates. And they also recently opened one in Park Slope! My personal flavor recommendation? Their praline and pecan yogurt. Super yummy!


NYC Yogurtland Locations:




Lenox Hill

1275 First Ave @ 69th St



Midtown

358 Seventh Ave @ 29th St



Downtown

420 Amsterdam Avenue
Corner of Chamber St



Park Slope

207 Seventh Ave @ 4th St

Check out their website for more details about flavors, nutrition, and locations!

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Get Free Stuff with Wrapp Mobile App

Before I launch into how amazing Wrapp is, I would like to point out that they did not paid me to write this glowing review. They should have, considering how much I'm going to rave about them but, as Tech Nine would say, "they ain't payin' me for it, at least not yet." (Caribou Lou, anyone?). So when I say Wrapp is amazing, you can trust that it's coming from the most sincere of places.

Currently in my Wrapp wallet
So what is Wrapp? It's a gift giving service that allows members to give and recieve free (or paid if you choose) gift cards to their Facebook friends. You can access the service through their website or download the free app. I recommend getting the app since some of the gifts can only be redeemed in-store via a mobile device. Gifts are stored in your "wallet" and can be used either in-store or online depending on the vendor.  The first gift I received was for Fab.com which I used to buy a cute cat print which is now on my wall. I paid only for shipping. And the $5 H&M gift I received for my birthday got me a pair of sandals from the fast-fashion retailer for close to nothing. Some of the free gifts I've given to my Facebook friends include $10 to H&M, $5 to American Apparel, and $10 to PACT.  Gifts are sent either via Facebook or email. All your friends have to do is download the app as well, and they'll be able to redeem their gifts. It's literally like giving away free money! And there is no limit (or at least I haven't encountered any) for the number of gifts you give. So feel free to go hog wild!


Wrapp is really a great resource. Many of the vendors sell items for amounts comparable to the gift amount so you can potentially get free stuff. Or you can use the gifts towards bigger purchases. If you're lucky enough to be my Facebook firiend, let me know if you want me to send you a free gift, I'd be happy to do so :)

Sunday, September 1, 2013

How to Save When Buying Textbooks



Don't we all remember the good old days of school supply shopping as a kid? My mom would drive me to CVS and I'd walk the aisles, school supply list in hand, picking out brightly colored notebooks, mechanical pencils, and locker accessories. This year, as I return to school after taking a year off, I wish I could say my school supply shopping experience was as pleasurable. But alas, my shopping list no longer includes frilly erasers and colored pencils. Instead, the bulk of my school supply budget is going to textbooks. And as anyone who has ever bough a textbook knows, that shit is expensive! So what's a penniless prima donna to do? Read on to find out how I saved on textbooks this year...and it's not just Chegg!

1. Comparison Shop! My three go-to online retailers for textbooks are Amazon, Half.com, and Chegg. All three have the option to buy new, used, the e-book, or rent for most books. I comparison to shop to see which of the three sites has the best deal on a book and I then choose the lowest price. 

2. Consider the Return on Investment! Contrary to #1, it's not always the wisest decision to always choose the lowest priced book. There are several factors that should affect whether you rent, buy a book new, or buy used. I bought a used copy of my French II book even though it was $10 more expensive than renting it, because I know I can sell it back to my campus's bookstore at the end of the semester for more than $10.

3. Use Your Campus Library! Your campus library almost indefinitely has a copy of that $200 statistics book for in-library use. Just set aside some time each week to get the reading done in the library. And you can always photocopy important pages or snap pictures of tables and graphs with your phone to review at home.

4. Use Other Libraries! My Shakespeare class requires me to read five plays by Shakespeare. Instead of buying each individual book, I've put them all on hold at the NYPL. These books can be renewed online so in most cases you can keep them for the duration of the semester. 

5. Communicate with your Professor! Ask your professor if it is okay to buy an earlier edition of the book, or whether they might have a spare book they'd be willing to loan you for the semester.  When I confided in my Algebra Review teacher about the financial burden of buying textbooks, he told me not to bother buying the assigned reading; all the information in the textbook could be found by simply googling each topic. And after stressing out over buying a $90 online course code for my French class, my professor assured me that although it was helpful to have access to the online content, it was not imperative.  Most professors are very understanding and want their students to succeed so they'll be willing to accommodate you.

It takes a little more effort to save on textbooks as opposed to just stopping into your campus bookstore and buying all your books. But for those of us on a tight budget, the extra effort really pays off. I'd love to hear if any of you have tips for saving on textbooks. Tell me in the comments below!

Sunday, July 21, 2013

Take a Free Ride on the Staten Island Ferry


Yesterday I found myself at a loss for how to spend my Saturday evening. After browsing my usual sources for cheap events, it seemed like there was nothing fun happening in the city  (which proves how much of a spoiled New Yorker I've become). I racked my brain for an enjoyable, free way to spend a summer evening in the city. And then it came to me...the Staten Island Ferry! 

I know what you're thinking: why would anyone who lives in Manhattan spend thier Saturday night going to Staten Island? Not that I have anything against this forgotten borough because I'm sure if I explored I would find many redeeming qualities. But it's definitely not the mecca of entertainment and culture that is Manhattan. So why go, you ask? Well, as R. Alan Woods would say, "The journey is the destination."

Leaving from the Whitehall Station at the Southern tip of Manhattan, a ride on the Staten Island Ferry offers great views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. The ferry has a deck and ample outdoor seating so passengers can enjoy the view. The ride takes about 25 minutes one way and ferries operate twenty-four hours a day. Best of all, it's free! The best time to go is in the evenings, after rush hour. There's something hypnotic about watching the lit up city skyline get smaller and smaller as the sea breeze blows through your hair. It's a summer must-do!

So grab some friends, your camera, and maybe a beer or two and hop on! You can get more information and check the schedule for departures here


Thursday, July 18, 2013

Get Deals with the 7-Eleven Mobile App

I can't believe it has been over a month since my last post. Between starting a new internship, moving to Brooklyn, re-registering for school, and oh yeah...enjoying every moment of spending my first summer in NYC, it seems like I barely have a free moment to spare. But of course I want to keep you all updated on the free, fun stuff happening...so expect lots more posts in the coming weeks.

For today, I want to share a quick, easy way I've been scoring freebies and coupons on a regular basis. Let me introduce you to the 7-Eleven Mobile App. 7-Elevens are popping up around the city at an alarming rate. It seems like there's a new one every few blocks. I downloaded their mobile app a few months ago (which is free, of course) and have been getting deals ever since. Coupons appear every few days and all you have to do is have the cashier scan the barcode on your phone to redeem them. The freebies I've gotten have included slurpees, ice cream bars, snacks, and gum. It's nothing gourmet, but I can't turn down a cold Snapple or Ice Cream Twix bar when it's 101 degrees in New York. Especially if I don't have to pay for it!



And just a heads up- they'll be offering free hot dog coupons on Tuesday, July 23rd in celebration of National Hot Dog Day! So download the app before then and stop by one of their locations.

Side note- There's a big push in my neighborhood to boycott 7-Elevens in support of local, family owned convenience stores. I totally understand the sentiment but just want to point out that a lot of the 7-Elevens we're seeing pop up are franchises opened by hard-working people who have busted their butts to save up the money to own a business. Maybe that's just me justifying my shopping habits but I wanted to put it out there. Food for thought!

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Free Donuts for National Donut Day



If you're a foodie like me, all you've been hearing about recently is the Cronut craze. The new dessert is taking NYC by storm and quite frankly, I'm offended. As a lover of both donuts and croissants, I firmly believe that they should be enjoyed separately and never mixed! Luckily for me, tomorrow June 7th is National Donut Day; a chance for all of us to celebrate donuts in their original form. And what better way to do so than with free donuts! The Krispy Kreme at 2 Penn Plaza (Amtrak Level) will be giving away free donuts all day.  Dunkin Donuts is also offering a free donut with any beverage purchase in honor of the holiday. And Canadian pastry purveyor Tim Hortons is getting into the spirit with this coupon for a free donut with any purchase.

Happy National Donut Day everyone!


Sunday, May 19, 2013

Get a Free Shake Shack Burger!

If you've ever walked past Madison Square Park on a summer day, you've seen the line of people snaking through the park waiting to get their hands on a juicy Shake Shack burger. Having never tried one (I'm not one to wait more than forty-five minutes for a meal), I can't attest to their deliciousness. But according to everyone I've ever talked to, they're to die for. And today through Wednesday, May 22nd, you can get one free! 


How? Delta Airlines is preparing for the launch of JFK Terminal 4, part of a rejuvenation project at JFK airport. The new terminal will feature restaurants from several world-renowned chefs including (you guessed it) Shake Shack! Part of Delta's marketing strategy was to open T4X, a pop-up space in Soho where visitors can "preview JFK T4’s new state-of-the-art features." Today through Wednesday between 11 AM and 3 PM they're giving out vouchers for free Shake Shack burgers at participating locations! But buyer beware: the website specifically says "while supplies last" without any indication of how many vouchers they plan to give out. It's a marketing ploy to pull people into the pop-up space and supplies are surely limited. If you're really interested in scoring a free burger voucher, I'd suggest going this morning. They're sure to go fast!

JFK T4X POP UP
376 WEST BROADWAY AT BROOME STREET

Sunday, May 12, 2013

How to See Free and Cheap Movies in NYC

Videology in Williamsburg
I love movies. Whether it's drooling over Ryan Gosling in a rom-com, getting absorbed in the plot twists of a thriller, or taking in the action of a super hero flick, the way a movie can transport the audience to another world is just so enjoyable. Unfortunately, going to the movies is no longer a budget-friendly form of entertainment, at least not in New York City. I almost gagged yesterday when I stopped by the theater on 34th St and saw that a ticket for the Great Gatsby in 3D is $18.50! To make matters worse, living in a tiny apartment, I don't have space for a TV or DVD player so I can't even rent my old favorites. But I refuse to let these finance-related issues get in the way of my movie enjoyment. Living the frugal life in NYC, I've discovered some free and cheap ways to see films on a regular basis. I'll let you in on my secrets:
  • Go early!- Did you know that if you see a movie before 12 PM at an AMC theater, it's only $8? To me, this is still a pretty steep price for an hour and a half of entertainment, but it's better than shelling out $13.50 to see the same movie eight hours later.
  • Attend a pre-release screening!- Major production companies sponsor free screenings for movies that are not even out yet as a way to generate buzz about their films. Tickets can be purchased online and usually go fast. I stay updated on new screenings by visiting Screenings.com, a site that lists current free showings by city.
  • Go to the library!-I've mentioned this before, but individual New York Public Libraries host free movie screenings almost everyday. This week alone there are showings for an array of films including recent blockbuster Gangster Squad, Audrey Hepburn classic Breakfast at Tiffany's,  and 1940's musical Stormy Weather. Check out their calendar of film screenings here to see what else will be showing. 
  • Check out Videology!-This place is almost too good to be true, and I've kept it a secret because I selfishly don't want anyone else to find out about it. But out of a moral obligation to my fellow penny-pinchers, I will share. Located in Williamsburg, Videology is a bar and movie rental store with a screening room in the back. They have movie screenings almost every night, many which are free. Drinks are available for purchase and viewers are allowed to bring their own food in. The calendar of events is as eclectic as the crowd it attracts. Visit their website for directions and a list of upcoming screenings.
  • See a movie outside!- As the weather warms up, outdoor movie screenings abound. Central, Bryant, and Thompson Square Park are just a few of the city parks where I've caught a movie. And Rooftop Film just kicked off their season of outdoor movie showings, some of which you can see free of charge. 
Going to a full price movie every once in a while is worth it. But there are so many other options when it comes to seeing quality cinema that doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. Happy movie watching!