Can you use an iphone with out a carrier?

So I want to get an iphone 5s because I never had one and it looks cool and I was wondering if you could use it with out a carrier like an ipod touch?

Sure.

$599.00 for a cell phone that you can't even use as a cell phone? Where were you when I was selling swampland in Arizona?

It wouldn't work without a carrier.

The new iPod Touch has iMessage capabilities, NOT phone capabilities (like regular texting or calls). If you were to get the 5S and use it as a phone (as intended), you need a carrier. Otherwise you're just paying much extra for a phone that's not being used as a phone.

Yes, if you pay full price for it you can use it without a carrier.

iPhone 5S with no contract:
16GB - $649
32GB - $749
64GB - $849

What would be the point?

Just get the iPod touch. Much cheaper.