This guide features hands-on programs in Staten Island that are open to the public and free of charge. These activities offer ways to build skills, explore creativity, and join community programs without cost. All entries are current, local, and designed for active participation.
Adult Education & Skill-Building
NYPL TechConnect
Offers free technology classes at library branches across Staten Island. Topics range from computer basics and internet skills to graphic design and coding. No prior experience required.
College of Staten Island – Adult Literacy & ESL
Provides free programs in English as a Second Language (ESL), adult literacy, and GED test prep. Courses are open to adults looking to improve reading, writing, or career readiness.
Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC – Adult Education
Hosts free classes including GED prep, job readiness training, and creative enrichment such as arts and music. Open to the public with registration.
Creative & Cultural Workshops
MakerSpace NYC – Staten Island
A community fabrication lab offering free family workshops in 3D printing, electronics, woodworking, and other maker skills. Includes monthly open house events and creative demo days.
Glam Gardener NYC
Organizes free and donation-based workshops on sustainable living, wild plant identification, herbalism, and creative reuse. Programs often held outdoors or in community spaces.
Art Lab at Snug Harbor
Offers low-cost and sometimes free drop-in art classes in drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media. Regular exhibitions and community events are also open to the public.
Family & Youth Programs
Apple Store – Staten Island Mall
Runs free workshops for kids and adults on music creation, video editing, coding with Swift, and iPad art. Sessions are beginner-friendly and hands-on.
Barnes & Noble – Staten Island Mall
Hosts weekly storytime events for children that feature read-alouds, crafts, and book-themed activities. Great for early readers and caregivers looking for free literacy programming.
JCC Youth Music Programs
Offers free music-based enrichment programs for teens, including jam sessions, songwriting workshops, and open mic-style performance spaces.
Wellness & Movement
Joy Movement & Wellness Workshops
A community initiative that hosts free and sliding-scale yoga, meditation, and body movement sessions in parks and cultural centers around Staten Island.
Bike Skills 101: Learn to Ride – Adults
Presented by NYC DOT, these free outdoor bike riding lessons teach adults how to ride confidently and safely. Bikes and helmets are often provided.
These programs are free, local, and open to anyone looking to gain new skills or connect with others. Use the links and maps to find sessions that match your interests. Attend once or return regularly—everything listed here is designed to be accessible, practical, and community-focused.
The Street Sign
The Street Sign points the way to where things are — the parks, restaurants, museums, and everything else. These guides are built to save you time and energy. Need a plan for an NYC outing? Follow The Street Sign.
