<p>Try Time Out New York magazine -<a href="http://www.timeout.com/newyork/">http://www.timeout.com/newyork/</a> - it's a great resource on free activities in the city.</p>
<p>Hi silvstargrl and nyumom: New York City is expensive. There is no getting around that. But there are places to shop and eat that are less expensive than others. It takes time to find them, but they are there. For instance, my daughter just discovered an area of Brooklyn that has great vintage stores at true vintage prices (the "vintage" stores in Manhattan are anything but cheap!).</p>
<p>NYU provides a lot of entertainment opportunities for students at very low cost. My daughter has seen several Broadway shows for free, for example.</p>
<p>I believe living in NYC has given my daughter an interesting perspective on money, and the reality is, you can live in NYC and not be super rich (we are solidly middle class). She has learned to look at the finer things in life with appreciation, not envy. And she feels privileged just to live in the city for what it has to offer people of any monetary means. The daily sights of the city are often enough entertainment, and it's right outside your front door.</p>
<p>I have/had two students at NYU, one a recent grad (who lives in Brooklyn), so we're very familiar with NYC and its resources. Both kids began their studies living at NYU while in high school, so they've been living in the city and experiencing all that it has to offer for many years now.</p>
<p>Sounds like nyumom should be answering the questions here--more experience than I have! Thanks for chiming in.</p>
<p>Thanks rcdmom - I'm glad that your family is enjoying nyc, and that your D is pleased with her nyu experience.</p>