Free & Low-Cost NYC Summer Camp Programs 2019
Free in NYC? Yes – these five summer camp programs are free!
NYC is known to be a place that’s hardly affordable for many and camping is not an exception. Some day camp programs can run up a bill of a $1,000 a week – more than some college programs! However, there is also an abundance of low-cost and free programs – some are specialized in a subject area (like math or science) and some are by audition only – however, if you do your research, apply early and are persistent – your child can have a great summer and you can save some serious dollars.
Here are the camps we selected:
Free Summer Programs - Center for New York City Affairs
New York City offers children and teens a wide range of after-school and summer activities--from paid museum internships to free science research programs. The free and low cost programs listed here are a great way to explore new interests, get extra support, and supplement what is being taught during the school day. Read More
PAL Summer Day Camp programs
Police Athletic Leagues are part of the NYC initiative for police officers to serve as role models to youth and their summer programs are designed to stimulate learning, creativity, and facilitate an appreciation of cultural diversity. PAL Summer Day Camp offers young people opportunities to explore cultural places like Museum of Natural History, Central Park and Shea Stadium. Offered in each of the five boroughs, these programs also have year round components. Read More
The NYC Parks Summer Day Camp programs
NYC Parks offer a number of locations for its summer camp programs every year for children ages 6 to 13. Utilizing the vast NYC park system, the campers engage in indoor and outdoor activities alike, including sports, pioneering and STEM. Campers take part in many of New York City’s rich cultural and educational opportunities. The application process is by lottery and applications come out in early March – so watch out the Parks’ website for more information. Read More
Intrepid Museum GOALS for Girls Summer Program
Intrepid Museum offers a free, application based program for 13-14 year old girls to promote women in science. Summer program’s curriculum focuses on aerospace science, Earth science and engineering. A great opportunity for learning, inventing and creating, this program also takes place at the Intrepid NYC – one of the coolest spaces in New York City. Applications are now available! Don’t miss your chance to apply. Read More
The Summer Arts Institute
Another program that invites high school students to apply is The Summer Arts Institute – a free arts program that takes place in Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School in Astoria, Queens. Specialties in dance, theater, instrumental music (band), vocal music, film, string orchestra or visual arts are offered through partnerships with renown NYC based cultural institutions. A partial college credit is offered upon completion. Applications are due February 5th, 2016. Read More
Fresh-Air Camps
Began in last century by a fresh air health movements, Fresh Air camps offer five distinct programs for different ages and specialties. Located in Fishkill, New York, children enjoy the outdoors, play sports and learn new skills. Fresh Air is non-profit, with one simple mission – to allow children living in low-income communities to get away from hot, noisy city streets and enjoy free summer experiences in the country. Read More
Looking for more camps? Here is our list of:
