Arcade bar with free indie games and custom cabinets creates a unique, energetic vibe. Space includes two big rooms and a backyard patio, hosting diverse crowds like couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and gamers. Music ranges from jazz to electronic, supporting a lively, creative atmosphere.
Events like arcade tournaments, indie game playtests, and LARPs happen regularly, keeping the scene lively. All games come from independent developers, offering fresh and uncommon experiences.
Cheap drinks stand out here, often strong and tasty. Happy hour offers deals like two drinks for $12-$16. Arcade games add to the fun without extra cost.
Good to know
You need to show ID at the door and be 21 years or older to enter.
The arcade is FREE to play, making it a unique attraction.
Beers are priced between $4-6, which is reasonable compared to other bars.
Spacious cafe offers large board game selection and comfy seating for all ages. Enjoy diverse Asian Korean dishes that add unique flavor. Prices stay super cheap with low admission and affordable food, making it a fun and budget-friendly spot.
A diverse and interesting selection of games makes this spot stand out. Many Asian Korean dishes add to the fun and interesting vibe.
Food prices stay super cheap here. Admission costs just $10 to $12 for several hours, making it very affordable compared to similar spots.
Good to know
$10 admission allows access for 3 hours, $12 on weekends.
The cafe is open until 10 PM Sunday-Thursday and 1 AM Friday-Saturday.
Make sure you get there early on weekends to avoid long waits.
Bar and grill with cheap beer and free hot dogs creates a casual, laid-back vibe. Small, crowded space includes an indoor patio and outdoor seating, with a touchscreen jukebox offering diverse music. Atmosphere feels authentic and old-school, drawing a lively crowd especially on weekends.
Interesting and friendly people gather here, creating a lively atmosphere. The combination of low-priced beer and hot dogs adds to the local American vibe.
Good to know
Rudy's has all day happy hour with great drink specials.
The bar is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.
Pints start from $3, making it one of the cheapest in the city.
Two floors and a basement hold curated vintage clothing, unique home decor, and affordable prices. The atmosphere blends boutique charm upstairs with classic thrift vibes downstairs, creating a cozy and welcoming space. Neat organization and a diverse selection invite long browsing sessions.
Thrift shop offers interesting books and fashion items. Clothing selection includes unique pieces.
Many items come with super cheap prices alongside a more curated selection. The store offers awesome sales and a mix of cheap and quality items.
Good to know
The thrift store has seasonal events and sales.
There is a $5 basement full of clothes.
The store has multiple $5 racks in the downstairs area.
Courtyard design and retro decor create a martial arts world atmosphere with soft lighting and wooden furniture. Live music and occasional singing add lively energy on some days, while the space stays quiet enough for conversations. Skewers are prepared in the kitchen to avoid smoke, making it comfortable for groups and friends to hang out.
Wine offers a unique taste that stands out even in small amounts. The menu features interesting dishes like an unexpected eggplant with egg and a variety of small plates and noodles to explore.
Prices stay consistently cheap across the menu. Food offers affordable options without sacrificing taste.
Good to know
Cakes need to be booked in advance.
You should call ahead to avoid waiting in lines.
The tavern does not take reservations ahead.
Narrow, cramped space stacks books from floor to ceiling with a quaint, cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a Harry Potter setting. The shop offers a wide selection of rare and used books with intimate, quirky layout featuring a mezzanine floor and ladders for browsing.
Used books offer a wide selection of second-hand fiction. A ladder lets you reach higher shelves yourself, adding to the experience.
Many books come at very cheap prices, including rare and secondhand finds. Some shelves on the street offer decent books for just a few dollars.
Good to know
Westsider Books has an outstanding selection of modern and collectible books.
The bookstore sells collector's rare and unique books on the second floor.
The prices for used books are right, averaging around $5.
Spacious arcade with wide variety of games including VR experiences and claw machines offering cool prizes. Bright, modern arcade theme with vibrant colors and a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Suitable for all ages, it combines fun energy with unique, high-quality gaming options.
Many games feature different themes and bonus rounds that keep things fresh. Claw machines hold interesting plushies, and the arcade offers a variety of catchy machines to try.
Prices stay cheap across many games, especially the VR ones. Paying a bit more for extra plays often feels more worthwhile than just buying the cheapest option.
Good to know
Max Funland offers a weekly raffle for visitors.
Tokens are required for most games, and prices vary.
The trampoline area is designed for toddlers only.
Interactive tabletop grills let diners cook their own skewers, creating a DIY dining experience with a self-serve skewer bar. The atmosphere is loud and energetic, with music that feels more like a club than a restaurant. Seating is low and close together, making the space feel cozy but sometimes cramped.
Endless options include interesting and familiar cuts of meat. The fish skin fillet offers a vinegary, salty flavor with good texture. The lychee mocktail has many flavor dimensions. The eating style adds to the overall interesting experience.
Skewers come at a very cheap price and offer a chance to try various meats and foods. Food stays delicious and of good quality despite the low cost.
Good to know
Skewers cost $1.50 each, with a membership option reducing the price to $1.
Happy hour offers 40% off after 1AM, making it a great late-night option.
Expect to wait about an hour for a table during busy times.
Spanning over three floors with a vibrant upstairs and a quieter lower level, the market offers a beautiful space filled with diverse food stalls and seating areas. The atmosphere blends authentic NYC energy with a lively bar scene and quality sound, creating a dynamic place to eat and explore.
A wide variety of interesting vendors offer street food, high-end pastries, and diverse groceries. The market hosts cooking classes and events and features distinctive architecture.
Fresh items come at cheap prices here. The fruits on the first floor and purchases at Luna Brothers stand out for their affordability.
Good to know
Restaurants close at 7 PM on Saturday night.
The market gets crowded during the lunchtime rush.
Management frequently closes the seating area for events, disrupting diners.
Tiny space with limited bar-style seating creates a crowded, bustling atmosphere where movement is tight and dining feels rushed. Most people come for takeout, watching rice rolls made fresh at the counter. The vibe suits quick stops rather than relaxed meals.
Fresh ingredients stand out, and watching the rice roll being made adds a visual treat. Snacks come cheap and cooking noodles right on the spot keeps things lively.
Prices stay really cheap for the area, especially on the rice rolls and chang fen. Food comes quick and stays tasty without costing much.
Good to know
The restaurant is cash only; bring cash for your visit.
Seating is extremely limited, so plan accordingly.
Expect to wait at least 20-30 minutes after ordering.
Free roaming peacocks and a petting zoo create an interactive, relaxed atmosphere. Trails wind through well-designed enclosures blending into natural surroundings. The vibe stays easygoing with comfortable walking and minimal crowds.
Small size hosts many interesting animals including exotic species. Monkeys stand out as the most engaging residents.
Good to know
Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
The sea lion show occurs two to three times daily, depending on the season.
Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children aged 3 to 12.
Small pizza spot with limited seating and grab-and-go vibe offers a cozy atmosphere filled with celebrity photos and good music. Indoor space feels tight, making it more suited for quick visits than long stays. Outdoor seating provides a pleasant alternative without disturbing passersby.
Pizza features interesting flavor options and unique toppings combinations like lasagna pizza. The small venue showcases walls filled with photos of the owner and celebrities, adding to its character.
Food comes at very cheap prices without sacrificing taste or portion size. Pizza stands out as tasty and good-sized, all served in a setting that feels classy rather than cheap.
Good to know
The restaurant is open all through the night.
The price for a margarita slice is $5 plus tax.
The place does not have parking.
Grocery store offers a comfortable layout with beautiful flowers and plants enhancing the space. Atmosphere ranges from pleasant and family-friendly to hectic during busy times, with many cashiers keeping lines moving. Known for affordable, high-quality food and a strong selection of snacks and produce.
Lots of interesting products fill the shelves, including a great bread area and fun frozen foods. Labels add a funny touch, while items like crispy pork belly and blueberry muffins stand out.
Prices stay consistently very cheap for food items. The store offers a super cheap shopping experience with great cheap finds throughout.
Good to know
Trader Joe's is located on 23rd street and 6th Ave in NYC.
This Trader Joe's is only a block away from the F train.
I found Trader Joe's well stocked.
Sawdust-covered floors and walls filled with historical artifacts create a vintage, old-world pub atmosphere. Absence of piped music keeps the space quiet and authentic, encouraging conversation. Patrons enjoy traditional Irish beers served in a setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Steeped in history, the place features interesting displays that give it unique character. Its old school vibe and remote location add to the lively and distinctive atmosphere.
Beers come in large 2.5 pint servings at very cheap prices compared to city standards. Drinks offer great value with no gimmicks or tricks.
Good to know
McSorley’s is a cash only establishment; come prepared.
Credit cards are not accepted, so bring cash.
The price for four beers is $16.
Walls and ceiling display thousands of first responder badges and 9/11 memorabilia, creating a space rich with history and tribute. Atmosphere feels authentic and friendly, with a steady flow of people connected to public service. Rock music plays, adding to the lively yet respectful vibe that sets it apart from typical pubs.
Countless fire and police patches cover the walls and ceiling, creating a cozy and interesting atmosphere. The food menu offers unique options, and the history behind the place adds another layer of interest.
Prices stay cheap compared to the New York average. Draft beer and Guinness on tap come at very cheap prices for the heart of NYC.
Good to know
You cannot get a table unless you order food, even if the place is empty.
The pub does not do split checks, which is important for large groups.
They charge a 3.5 percent surcharge for using a credit card.
Small space fills with bright colors and loud, lively energy reminiscent of a circus. Shoppers find affordable variety in toys, gifts, and household items, all organized neatly under well-lit conditions. Self check-out adds convenience to a bustling, colorful environment.
Shelves hold a variety of interesting items that catch the eye. The affordable sweets selection adds a unique touch, especially for tourists.
A huge place with a wide selection of very cheap products across all areas. Always find interesting items and cheap Funko Pops available.
Good to know
Most products cost $5 or less, but some products cost more than $5.
If you like something, you should buy it right away because items sell out super fast.
When paying with cash, only small bills under $50 will be accepted.
Bar seating surrounds a narrow sushi counter in a clean, minimalist space with a chic, zen vibe. The atmosphere stays calm yet lively, attracting people who enjoy handrolls paired with Korean drinks like soju and makgeolli. The intimate setting feels cozy despite tight seating and occasional noise from an open door.
All five hand-rolls show freshness with interesting flavors and textures. The spicy tuna roll offers a different and memorable taste. Korean flavors add an extra layer of interest to the food.
Dinner prices stay on the cheap side with about $40 for 5 rolls. Air conditioning is solid and not skimped on despite the low prices.
Good to know
The last seating on Saturday night is at 7:45 PM.
They currently do not offer reservations.
Expect a line; it's recommended to arrive early.
Tall shelves packed with books create a dense, literary maze across three floors. Dim lighting and a musty scent set a quiet, nostalgic atmosphere that feels like a time capsule of printed words. The space draws avid readers who appreciate rare finds and a vibrant, book-filled environment.
Many interesting rare books and eclectic titles stand out, arranged in a way that draws attention. The blind book section offers a unique experience, and the store also features gadgets and unusual items beyond books.
Plenty of cheap used books fill the basement and outdoor areas. Prices start as low as $1.00, though the outdoor section is unorganized and requires some digging.
Good to know
The Strand hosts regular author readings, book signings, and literary discussions.
Look out for frequent events at the bookstore, including author signings.
The Rare Book Room hosts special author events.
Small restaurant with intimate ambiance and dim lighting creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Space feels cramped due to many tables packed closely together. Background features soft music and videos of traditional Thai cooking, enhancing the relaxed vibe.
Unique dishes showcase Thai-local flavors not common in most Thai spots. The fried catfish mango salad offers a bright, intense taste with a strong flavor combination.
Super-cheap cocktails offer a great value. Portions stay generous and never feel cheap.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially for parties larger than two.
Expect wait times of 40 minutes or more without a reservation.
Saranrom Thai accepts credit cards and Apple Pay for payments.
Chinese bakery offers a warm, cozy atmosphere with rustic decor and soft lighting. Spacious seating includes free Wi-Fi and outlets, making it suitable for chatting or studying. The environment feels clean and comfortable with a large variety of pastries and drinks.
Purple rice in the cheesecake adds a unique twist. Asian flavored croissants and pork floss cake bring interesting flavors. Oreo snowbites offer a chewy texture and mild sweetness.
Cakes, breads, and buns come at very cheap prices here. Desserts taste yummy and cost less than at other bakeries.
Good to know
You have to make a reservation to eat at the bakery.
The bakery closes at 8:30 PM.
Some popular pastries or sweets will be sold out before afternoon due to high demand.
Natural history museum showcases magnificent architecture and iconic taxidermy displays that create a majestic atmosphere. Crowds and noise from school groups often fill the large, well-organized spaces. Interactive exhibits and a planetarium with space simulations add engaging elements to the experience.
Dinosaur fossils on the fourth floor stand out as a key attraction. Free guided tours add an educational and engaging layer to the experience.
Entry fees become cheap with the Go City voucher. Annual tickets also offer a comparatively low price.
Good to know
Buying tickets ahead of time saves a lot of time.
You have to reserve a time to enter the museum.
Entry to the museum is free during the last hour.
Three expansive floors host a huge selection of books, manga, games, and collectibles arranged like an old library with wide aisles and a clean, organized layout. The atmosphere is quiet and comfortable, offering a welcoming haven for fans of Japanese culture amid a busy city.
Shelves hold a wide range of interesting books and vintage games. The store offers many unique items for movie, video game, and anime fans.
Prices stay consistently cheap across books, records, and anime merchandise. Many first hardcover editions and albums appear at very low rates, making it easy to find affordable items.
Good to know
You can trade books for cash easily by showing an ID and providing your mobile number.
They offer $1.50 for 10 hard cover books.
The manga section is located downstairs.
Space feels like an authentic Japanese izakaya with crowded, loud energy during dinner. Unique cotton candy machine offers a playful end to the meal. Seating is tight and uncomfortable, adding to the cramped, lively vibe.
Large menu offers a variety of food and drinks. The music adds an interesting vibe. Overall, the experience feels unique and engaging.
Alcohol prices stay very low, with $1.50 beer standing out. Food tastes great and comes at an outrageously cheap price, letting you try a bit of everything without spending much.
Good to know
Customers should get to the restaurant early because it fills up fast.
Kenka does not take bookings, so get there early if you are in a rush.
Seatings are on a first come, first serve basis.
Hot pot restaurant with gorgeous interior design and high ceilings creates a spacious, peaceful atmosphere. Guests enjoy personalized hotpot experiences with tablet ordering and a creative sauce bar. Membership offers access to exclusive dessert carts and booths, adding a unique touch.
Music includes favorite songs that catch attention. A candied haws and cake baking stall adds unique flavor. The menu offers many interesting and delicious items. Staff and lucky draw gifts also stand out.
Prices stay consistently cheap for hotpot here. The food offers great value without sacrificing taste.
Good to know
The minimum charge for the candied haws event is 300 for 5 people.
It's best to call and make a reservation to avoid long wait times.
The regular all-you-can-eat option costs about $35 per person.
Small zoo nestled among tall city buildings offers intimate animal encounters and beautifully maintained grounds. Crowded exhibits create close views but can feel cramped for animals. Interactive areas like the rainforest walk and children's petting zoo provide engaging experiences.
Small but well kept, this zoo offers interesting animals like scarlet macaws and ant colonies. Educational activities keep kids engaged, making it a baby friendly and informative spot for families.
Entrance fees come at a cheap price. The overall cost feels relatively cheap compared to similar spots.
Good to know
The sea lion feeding happens several times a day and is both entertaining and educational.
Make sure to attend the feeding of sea lions, which happens at 10:30am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.
The dolphin feeding time is around 2:30 PM.
Used furniture store offers highly stylish pieces with a diverse selection including mid-century modern and vintage art. Atmosphere shifts from businesslike daytime to a more relaxed evening vibe with music playing. Space feels like a part museum, blending comfort with sustainability and community support.
Many items show vintage quality and unique styles. Shops offer a wide range of interesting things to explore.
Swanky furniture comes at cheap prices here, making it easier to furnish an apartment. Inventory ranges from affordable necessities to high-end vintage gems, with prices often negotiable.
Good to know
They host neighborhood clothing swaps for free, which is a big plus for the community.
They give out some freebies on Fridays.
10% of their proceeds are donated to Habitat NYC.
Large covered market inside a restored industrial factory blends historic architecture with modern culinary culture. Vibrant atmosphere fills the space with diverse shops and food stalls, attracting many visitors. Outdoor heated booths offer comfortable spots to eat despite the busy, sometimes warm environment.
Structure based on a former Oreo factory creates a unique backdrop. Shops run by traders from different countries offer diverse and interesting finds alongside quality cuisines and a notable cheese plate at CorkBuzz.
Los Tacos offer cheap and tasty options. Most shops sell water cheaply and serve fresh food.
Good to know
Happy hour offers half price on oysters and beers/wine.
Chelsea Market hosts various events, including cooking classes and pop-up shops.
Expect a 20-minute queue outside every restaurant during peak hours.
Converted historic building offers spacious common areas including a courtyard with fairy lights and a well-maintained kitchen. Rooms provide privacy curtains and personal lockers, creating a quiet and safe atmosphere. Social spaces encourage meeting new people despite the calm room environment.
Location near a police station and Central Park adds a unique urban feel. The building's architecture stands out as a must-see, while the courtyard and front area create a cool vibe to meet people from all over the world.
Offers a cheap price despite a prime Manhattan location. Nearby options include a cheap Chinese restaurant and a cheap deli, plus fast food and shops.
Good to know
The hostel is right across from a subway stop, making it easy to get around.
You need to bring your own lock for the locker at HI NYC.
No breakfast is included, and what they offer for payment is more expensive than buying it outside.
Vietnamese restaurant blends authentic cuisine with a casual upscale vibe featuring dim lighting and artwork murals. Seating is close together, creating a cozy but tight space suited for groups or quick meals. Menu offers unique dishes not commonly found elsewhere, emphasizing genuine flavors.
Offers a range of very interesting dishes like pork liver, pork blood, and local vitamin-rich offals. Stands out from typical casual Vietnamese spots in the area.
Prices run around $15-16 per dish, which is not cheap. Portions are small, with about three slices of brisket, one tripe, and one beef ball. Service is fast and inexpensive.
Good to know
They have specials every weekend including bún riêu and cá nướng.
There is a 3.5% credit card fee; bring cash to avoid charges.
Ask for the weekend special as it changes frequently.