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New Yorkers 1st Choice
the US' best

Cheap performing arts

Access to the performing arts should be accessible to everyone regardless of their budget.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated April 2026
01
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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.

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.

Live musical performances happen regularly, offering a chance to catch some tunes. The venue combines free arcade games with a musical atmosphere for a casual entertainment mix.

People are saying

"I played classic arcade games like Pac-Man and Galaga with my crew."

"I found the custom arcade games here to be super unique and fun."

"It's a cool arcade with unique, free-to-play indie games."

Good to know

1

You need to show ID at the door and be 21 years or older to enter.

2

The arcade is FREE to play, making it a unique attraction.

3

Beers are priced between $4-6, which is reasonable compared to other bars.

02
Cellar Dog image 1

Large basement space combines live jazz music with pool, ping pong, and foosball games creating a lively, chill vibe. Vibrant decor and expert lighting set a captivating ambiance amid a gritty, underground feel. Noise from games blends with music, making the atmosphere energetic and social.

Prices stay cheap overall, including a low cover charge for everyone. Some items like the pretzel are not cheap.

Many young people gather here to play chess, ping pong, and billiards. The space offers a casual spot to play games and enjoy a few beers.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing live jazz music and cool atmosphere."

"You can play pool or ping pong while listening to live jazz."

"The cover charge here is pretty cheap."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover charge for live jazz on weekends.

2

The cover charge on Thursday night at 10 PM is $5.

3

You should get on the waitlist immediately when you arrive for pool.

03
Central Park Zoo image 1

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.

Entrance fees come at a cheap price. The overall cost feels relatively cheap compared to similar spots.

A 4D theater offers an engaging experience with interactive effects. A kids' section provides a sweet, age-appropriate space. Ticket includes access to the theater and zoo areas.

People are saying

"I found the zoo to be surprisingly small."

"The 4D theater show was a highlight with bubbles, smells, and sights."

"I found the zoo to be very small."

Good to know

1

The sea lion feeding happens several times a day and is both entertaining and educational.

2

Make sure to attend the feeding of sea lions, which happens at 10:30am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.

3

The dolphin feeding time is around 2:30 PM.

04
Marie's Crisis CafΓ© image 1

Tiny underground bar fills quickly with people singing along to live piano performances of Broadway show tunes. Atmosphere feels classically camp and old-school, creating a crowded, energetic vibe where musical fans gather closely. Cash-only policy adds to the authentic, no-frills experience.

Strong, cheap drinks dominate the menu. Cocktails come at a low price and pack a boozy punch.

A lively piano bar hosts musical sing-alongs with a crowd deeply familiar with Broadway tunes. The atmosphere stays chill and fun, perfect for singing favorite showtunes and meeting others who love musicals.

People are saying

"It's a fun piano bar where everyone sings show tunes."

"The drinks here are strong and cheap."

"You'll love the musical theater singalongs led by talented pianists."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as the bar doesn’t take any cards.

2

There is a two-drink minimum per person.

3

Marie’s Crisis CafΓ© features a nonstop singalong of show tunes.

05
American Museum of Natural History image 1

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.

Entry fees become cheap with the Go City voucher. Annual tickets also offer a comparatively low price.

Shows focus on the universe with a planetarium theater and a 3D Big Bang Theater. The performances are intriguing and visually engaging.

People are saying

"The dinosaur exhibits at the Museums are breathtaking, especially the T. rex."

"The dinosaur exhibits are a must-see for kids and adults."

"I loved seeing all the dinosaurs; they were a must-see exhibit."

Good to know

1

Buying tickets ahead of time saves a lot of time.

2

You have to reserve a time to enter the museum.

3

Entry to the museum is free during the last hour.

06
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Comedy club

Comedy club offers an intimate atmosphere with top-tier comedians delivering stand-up in a classic NYC venue. Walls display photos of comedy legends, creating a shrine to comedy that draws an engaged, respectful crowd. Energy builds with occasional surprise guest sets, making the experience lively and memorable.

Comedy classes cost $475 for 5 weeks, which is an insanely cheap price. Tickets run about $15, and drinks, including beer, are affordable for a performance venue.

Musical comedy here features a unique style that lifts the crowd's energy. The venue offers a strong musical component and a smooth reservation system for easy seating.

People are saying

"The comedy lineups here are always great and the talent is top-tier."

"I found the tickets to be cheap, only $15."

"You must see a show here for authentic performing arts."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as they sell out quickly.

2

There is a two-item minimum purchase per guest.

3

Guests must seal their phones in a pouch during the show.

07
100 Fun image 1
Karaoke bar

Karaoke rooms offer spacious, soundproofed spaces with top-notch sound systems and tasteful decoration. An outdoor 420-friendly area adds a unique social option. The atmosphere stays fun and inviting, supported by clear acoustics and a lively vibe.

Prices stay consistently cheap across the board. Karaoke sessions come with credits and remain very affordable.

People are saying

"I had a really fun time and the vibe was great."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I found the prices to be cheap and came with credits."

Good to know

1

Karaoke costs $100 per hour, not per group.

2

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 PM with special pricing.

3

Reservations are recommended for groups larger than 15 people.

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