The Best Very Cheap Views of New York City

They say the best things in life are free. But when it comes to high-cost New York City, very, very cheap is almost as good. And in New York, you can get some great views for just a few bucks.

Last week I outlined four of my favorite free New York City views. Today, four more that aren't quite free but certainly won't leave you broke, either.

1. Brooklyn Bridge

Manhattan from the Brooklyn Bridge

Of course, walking over the Brooklyn Bridge is on many to-do lists. And while technically it is free, it often makes more sense to walk over the bridge in one direction and take the subway to your next destination, saving time and your poor, poor legs.

A few tips: make sure to stay on the bridge's walking path in order to escape the ire of angry bicyclists on the other side of the line. Also, the subway is much closer to the Manhattan side of the bridge; plan your trip accordingly.

Lastly, many people recommend walking from Brooklyn to Manhattan in order to get the Manhattan views all the way across the bridge. I don't think it really matters. There are a couple of fine spots to stop along the bridge to see all the good views you want and more.

Total cost: $2.25 for the subway ride.

2. Subway over the Manhattan Bridge

Manhattan Bridge

The Manhattan Bridge is just north of the Brooklyn Bridge on the East River, so you get the same good views that you get from the Brooklyn Bridge, only from here the Brooklyn Bridge is actually in those views.

You can also walk across the Manhattan Bridge, but it's certainly not as popular as its neighboring bridge to the south. I've never done it. Anyway, the train views are perfectly fine.

However, note that you won't be able to get great photos. The subway itself moves pretty fast, and the Manhattan Bridge itself is in the way of any good shot. But you can get some lovely views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

To cross the Manhattan Bridge by subway, take the D, N or Q trains, but note that they may not cross the bridge during weekend construction projects.

Total cost: $2.25 for the subway ride.

3. Roosevelt Island Tram

Dramatic views, both toward Roosevelt Island and Queens (above), as well as Manhattan proper.

For a swipe of your MetroCard, you can take a ride on public transportation that feels more like it belongs in your favorite amusement park.

The ride on the tram's cable car is only a few minutes long, but you get beautiful views of Midtown Manhattan along the East River. The tram drops you off in Roosevelt Island proper -- also a part of Manhattan -- where you can take a scenic walk along the water's edge for even more terrific views.

Total cost: $2.25 for the tram, accepts MetroCards like the subway and buses.

4. BQE along the East River

From the comfort of your car -- or a taxi, if you prefer -- you'll get views on the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway similar to the ones you'll see at Brooklyn Bridge Park, which I wrote about in Friday's blog post.

Heading south is fine, of course, but I think the views north are even better: Manhattan on your left, and the Brooklyn Bridge straight ahead. Beautiful.

Total cost: Gas money or taxi fare.