Free and Cheap on Long Island

Long Island has lots of affluent communities and was once the home of sprawling Gold Coast mansions. But in addition to all the upscale places, there are plenty of free and cheap things to do on Long Island. From lush, flower-filled gardens to cost-free museums, Long Island has much to offer for folks on a budget.

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Free Things to Do on Long Island

You don’t have to spend lots of money to enjoy Long Island. From free movies, concerts and plays to museums without admission fees, there’s plenty to see and do on Long Island without digging deep into your wallet. Here are some places where you can have fun on Long Island for free.

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Free Things To Do With Your Kids on Long Island

Long Island Children's Museum - Bubble Gallery — Photo © Long Island Children's Museum

Whether you have an only child or a group of three or more in tow, there are wonderful, free places to take your children in Nassau and Suffolk. Here's a sampling of some great free things to do with kids on Long Island.

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Free on Long Island on Your Kid's Birthday

From free meals to other birthday surprises, there's a variety of freebies on your child's special day.

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Get A FREE Entree on Your Birthday at Indian Wells Tavern

Indian Wells Tavern - Amagansett NY — Photo © Eric Striffler

Celebrate your birthday with a free entree at Indian Wells Tavern in Amagansett. Proof of birthday is required. Call (631) 267-0400 for more information.

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Free on Your Birthday on Long Island

From free meals to ice cream and more, find out where you can get some great freebies on your birthday.

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Daytime Discounts at Madras Woodlands Restaurant

On weekdays from noon to 3 p.m., check out Madras Woodlands' lunch specials where you can choose from a variety of meals for only $5.25 (plus tax.)

Specials include a choice of one curry dish (mattar paneer, alu gobi, daal fry, vegetable jalfrezi, alu matter and more), served with basmati rice, chapati, yogurt, pickle and more, all for $5.25

On weekends, there's an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet for $9.95 (plus tax) from noon to 3 p.m. Meals at Madras Woodlands are kosher.

Madras Woodlands is located at 1627 Hillside Avenue in New Hyde Park, NY.

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The American Guitar Museum

One of Long Island’s lesser-known museums, The American Guitar Museum is home to countless musical treasures. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in the importance of musical instruments on display. Best of all, there's no admission charge.

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Long Island Thrift Shops

Shop for bargains and hidden treasures at the many Long Island Thrift Shops. Click on the title to learn more.

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Cheap or Free Dates on Long Island, NY

Long Island, New York offers many venues that you and your date can visit and things to do without having to spend a ton of cash to have fun. Here are some suggestions for you for affordable or even free dates in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Read more...

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Book Revue – Independent Book Store in Huntington

Not only does Book Revue have lots of discounted new and used books, but the independent book store offers frequent, FREE author readings and workshop for adults and children.

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AAA Discounts on Long Island, NY

Are you a member of AAA? Don't forget to check out their discounts on shopping and attractions at participating Nassau and Suffolk county venues....Read more about AAA Discounts on Long Island, NY...

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The Apple Store, Manhasset

The Apple Store offers lots of free computer classes if you reserve in advance. Or you can just go to the store and enjoy looking at all the cool tech products.

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Americana Manhasset Shopping Mall

Although you'll have to pay to buy merchandise, it's free to window shop. Stroll through this vast mall and look at at the decorative sculptures, live plants and more to enjoy a cost-free afternoon.

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Tour of the beachfront at Long Beach

Long Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Although you'll have to pay to enter during the high summer season, you can go earlier or later in the day to avoid fees.

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Long Island Beaches

Read about even more lovely beaches on Long Island.

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Outdoor Sculpture Garden at the Nassau County Museum of Art

The Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor features exhibits of major artists in its Gold Coast Georgian mansion from the early 20th century. There is an admission fee to enter the museum , but beyond the elegant building, visitors can wander for FREE through 145 acres of fields, woods, ponds and formal gardens.

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Garvies Point Museum and Preserve

The beach at Garvies Point Preserve — Photo © Linda Tagliaferro

Although Garvies Point Museum charges a fee, it is minimal. And it's FREE to wander through the lovely preserve with nature trails that lead down to the beach.

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Grumman Memorial Park

See actual aircraft created by Grumman --like the F-14A Tomcat--- at this FREE outdoor park.

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Affordable Long Island Wines

Long Island's North Fork boasts many wineries that feature many great varieties. Stop in for wine tastings or read this article to find out which wines are affordable.

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Northport Coupons

Colorful boats in Northport Harbor. — KKMPhotos/Long Island CVB

Northport is a lovely waterfront village on Long Island's North Shore. The Northport Chamber of Commerce website features printable coupons that offer discounts on local shops.

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Dog Runs on Long Island

Take a long walk with your dog in Nassau or Suffolk County, where dog runs are either free or cheap.

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Free Chocolate! - Join The Godiva Chocolate Rewards Club

Find out how to join the Godiva Rewards Club at Long Island, NY and other stores. You'll get some freebies and discounts. Read more about the Godiva Chocolate Rewards Club...>

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