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This page was created to provide information regarding free and near free vacation attractions. Please tell your friends about this page. Who knows, maybe they'll take the money they save and buy you one of those goofy tourist T-Shirts!
If you know of a FREE (or nearly free) vacation or tourist attraction, please send us a note with the location, name, and any additional information you can provide to gary@stretcher.com.
States:
ALABAMA for information call 1-800-252-2262
Decatur (North Alabama)
Cook's Natural Science Museum - 412 13th St SE - Enjoy a vast collection of wildlife including rare displays of a bald eagle and golden eagle. Monday - Saturday 9 am - 5 pm (closed Noon - 1 pm for lunch) - Sunday 2 pm - 5 pm - Phone 256-350-9347 - cookspest.com
ALASKA there is no toll free number for tourist information.
Denali, AK
Denali National Park
(907) 683-2294
Gustavus, AK
Glacier Bay National Park
(907) 697-2230
ARIZONA for information call 1-800-842-8257
Grand Canyon, AZ
Grand Canyon National Park
(520) 638-7888
Petrified Forest, AZ
Petrified Forest National Park
(520) 524-6228
Tucson, AZ
Saguaro National Park
(520) 733-5153
In Tucson a drive to "A" Mountain. Gives a great look at the city. Also a drive to Mt. Lemmon. If you plan to stop along the way there is a fee (a yrs pass is $10). Its very cool in the summer months, and a stop at the Mt. Lemmon Cafe for pie is a must.
Mary
Desert Sonora Museum
There's a small fee. It's a zoo of sorts; the animals are in their natural habitat instead of cages. You walk thru the park and tunnels to view nocturnal species.-from Alice
Davis Monthan Air Force Base "Airplane Graveyard"-from Alice
Colossal Cave
This is a huge underground natural cave.-from Alice
ARKANSAS for information call 1-800-628-8725
Altus, Arkansas
Altus Heritage House Museum. Free admission. Open 10 - 2 every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday except holidays. Also open when activities are going on in the city park across the street. 102 N. Franklin Street
Free tours and tasting at all local wineries. There are 4 in the area: Post, Mount Bethel, Wiederkehr and Chateau Aux Arc
Carolyn
Fort Smith, Ar
Located on the Arkansas/Oklahoma border, Fort Smith was the gateway to the West and governed the Indian Territory. Home to Belle Starr and Hanging Judge Parker. The Tourist Center is located in one of the original bordellos that lined the Arkansas River. You can see the site of the original fort and Judge Parker's gallows. There is a wonderful museum to tour for a nominal fee.
Hot Springs, AR
Hot Springs National Park
(501) 624-3383, ext. 640
CALIFORNIA for information call 1-800-862-2543
Burlingame
Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia - 214 California Drive - (650) 347-2301 - Open Tues. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - burlingamepezmuseum.com - The world's only museum dedicated to the history of the Pez candy. Hundreds of dispensers are displayed and an interactive exhibit provides access to clips of Pez from T.V. and the movies.
Crescent City, CA
Redwood National Park
(707) 464-6101
Death Valley, CA
Death Valley National Park
(619) 786-2331
Disneyland, CA
If planning a trip to Southern California, check out the cost of annual passes. The annual passes may cost less than 3 or 4 days admission. At Disneyland there is a picnic area outside the park. Fill a cooler and leave it in your car. Meals "out" can get expensive. --from L.C.
Fairfield, CA
The Herman Goelitz Candy Company Tour
Phone: (707-428-2838)
Take a treat filled tour of the company that makes Gummi Pet Tarantulas and Jelly Belly Beans.
Guest get free samples and can buy discounted Belly Flops (jelly bean rejects)--from D.J.
Lompoc, CA
La Purisima Mission. During the summer every other week there is a special event. There are volunteers who work the mission as if it were the early 1800's. There are samples of foods eaten, and other activites that children and adults can participate in. The mission also has many animals that live on the property. It is a very interactive experience. The cost is $5.00 per car $4.00 for seniors.--from Steven V.
Los Angeles
Getty Museum - virtualtourist.com/vt/b80ac/4/23/?o=3&i=3 - Amazing art museum and architectural marvel. Free, but $15 parking. Not to be missed. Great for kids!
California Science Center - West Coast's largest hands-on science center. Free admission to permanent exhibits. - casciencectr.org/
Los Angeles County Museum of Art www.lacma.org is right next door to the Natural History Museum, and they have a Next Generationfree admission deal that is just fantastic. Children get a free membership, and can bring an adult with them for free. I checked online and it does not say it is for California or Los Angeles residents only. In addition to the NexGen program, LACMA also has free admission after 5 p.m. and the 2nd Tuesday of each month. There are paid parking lots, but parking can often be found free on Sundays on 6th Street behind the museums.
Menlo Park
U.S. Geological Survey Western Region Center - 345 Middlefield Road - (650) 329-4390 - Earth Science Information Center Open Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Library Open Mon. - Fri. 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. usgs.gov - At the Information Center you can view numerous maps, pick up pamphlets on anything from dinosaurs to volcanoes and check the "Free" box for maps or posters to take home. Highlights of the library are the globe collection and the Aerial Photo Room.
Mineral, CA
Lassen Volcanic National Park
(916) 595-4444
Pescadero
Phipps Ranch - 2700 Pescadero Road - (650) 879-0787 Open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Seven days a week. - On the 50-acre farm you can view exotic birds, a plant nursery, lots of farm animals, herb and flower gardens and play on antique farm equipment. There's also two picnic table areas, a produce market and berry picking from mid-June through September.
Point Reyes, CA
Point Reyes National Seashore
(415) 663-1092
San Diego
The San Diego Natural History Museum offers free admission to everyone on Tuesdays. Great place to take the kids and adults will enjoy it too. The address is 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, phone is 619-232-3821.
Angie D.
San Francisco, CA
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
(415) 556-0560
San Francisco Zoo and the Museums at Golden Gate Park are free the first Wednesday of every month. You may want to confirm this before you visit to verify the correct date.- from K.L.
Muir Woods State Park
Beautiful walking trails (strolls) through the redwood forest. --from C.S.
Stinson Beach
You can picnic on the beach and play in the surf. --from C.S.
Point Reyes National Park
There are numerous beaches and the lighthouse you can visit at the end of the point.--from C.S.
Three Rivers, CA
Sequoia National Park
(209) 565-3134
Twentynine Palms, CA
Joshua Tree National Park
(619) 367-7511
Redlands, CA.
Lincoln Memorial Shrine/A.K. Smiley Public Library
West Vine Street
Redlands, CA 92373
(909) 798-7632
Contact: Mr. Don McCue, Archivist
The A.K. Smiley Public Library and the Lincoln Memorial Shrine are two hidden gems in the Inland Empire town of Redlands. Located off of the 10 FWY between LA and Palm Springs, in a bucolic park setting, sits the Library and Shrine. The Shrine contains a vast collection of Civil War items. The Library is an architectural marvel. Redlands also has many great examples of Victorian and Craftsman architecture. Also, there is a wonderful Farmer's market which is held each Thursday night.--from S. G.
Sylmar, CA
The Nethercutt Collection - Private collection of classic cars, pipe organs, antique furniture, and porcellin belonging to the Nethercutts (of Merle Norman fame). Visitors can take a guided tour and tour a separate bldg. housing classic cars only plus a historic train.
Three Rivers, CA.
Kings Canyon National Park
(209) 565-3341
On the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, Kings Canyon--along with Dequioa to the south--is known for its granite peaks, deep canyons, and high-country lakes (accessible via trails, not roads). It's also known for its stands of sequoia. The oldest of the trees are hundreds of feet tall and have 30 foot wide trunks.
Woodside
The Woodside Store Historic Site - King's Mountain and Tripp Roads - (650) 851-7615 - Open: Tues. and Thurs. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Weekends 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. - Meticulously restored to its appearance in the 1880s. The former country store, post office and community center is a hands-on museum. Features from the 1880's include a dentist's office, blacksmith shop, old-fashioned appliances, tools, clothes, maps and historic documents and photos. In the store you will find many examples of goods that were available to customers during the store's heyday alongside postings of 1880s prices. The staff will gladly answer children's questions about what life was like 100 years ago.
Yosemite, CA
Yosemite National Park
(209) 372-0200
COLORADO for information call 1-800-433-2656
Swetsville Zoo in Fort Collins - This makes a good day trip or addition to your tour of Colorado. A zoo of scrap metal animals and dinosaurs donations only
- Wolf Refuge the wolves are in large pens, and there is no fee (do leave a donation). You can camp there for free, tooGreat Sand Dunes National Monument in Southern Colorado - Giant sand dunes right next to beautiful mountain trails. $3 entrance fee. Camping in the park is $12/night
- free on SaturdaysMesa Verde, CO
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
(970)529-4465
Estes Park, CO
Rocky Mountain National Park
(970) 586-1206
CONNECTICUT for information call 1-800-863-6569
Cheshire, CT
The Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum is a great place for the whole family, though grownups will probably have the most fun as they relive their childhoods! Next to the museum is an Animation Art gallery and a sculpture gallery. The museum and galleries are a few miles from Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, CT.
Danbury, CT
"Car Cruise Nights"
Located at Marcus Dairy off Route 7 in Danbury, Ct. The event is usually held every Saturday night during the summer and early fall. The event is free.--from Stephanie
Groton, CT
Nautilus Museum. Free admission. Real submarine (in the water) that you can board and learn about. Great stuff on Naval history and a periscope kids can play with. Located right outside the Groton Naval Sub-Base (off Rte 12). Outdoor and indoor exhibits.from Pamela A.
Hadlyme, CT
Gillette Castle. It is free admission to the grounds itself and it has nature walks and picnic areas. There is a minimal fee to go inside of the castle. from Heidi
Kent, CT
Kent Falls Park
There is a gorgeous waterfall with picnic tables and some open grassy area. No admission but there is a parking fee. The park is located along Route 7 in Kent, CT.--from Stephanie
Waterford, CT
Harkness Memorial Park. There is a small fee for entry but they have expansive grounds, picnicing, fishing, ornamental gardens, and a gorgeous restored mansion. It is a state park. from Heidi
DELAWARE for information call 1-800-441-8846
FLORIDA for information call 1-800-872-1969
Blue Springs State Park
Here you can see manatees swimming.--from S.S.
Bradenton Beach, Fl
One of the nicest in the state. Parking is free, lots of long sandy beach, plenty of picnic area and a playground for the kids. But, sorry Fido isn't allowed.
Cocoa, FL
Brevard Community College
They host a 2 day Seminole Indian & Florida Pioneer festival every fall. The event features Native American dancers fold singers, cloggers, craft vendors, and indian food vendors. It also typically includes airboat rides, "cracker" cattle whip demonstrations, and wildlife exhibits. Admission is free. For information call (407) 632-1111 ext. 63720 or email canard.k@a1.brevard.cc.fl.us-from KCHP
Daytona Beach
The Kennedy Space Center near Daytona Beach offers free admission to its vast Visitor Complex. Bus tours and films have a fee but they have a great space-themed playground, space shuttles to tour, and plenty of artifacts and exhibits for free. (Parking is also free.) - kennedyspacecenter.com
Gulf Breeze, FL
Gulf Islands National Seashores
(904) 934-2600
Homestead, FL
Everglades National Park
(305) 242-7700
Paynes Prairie State Preserve, FL
Here you can see migratory sandhill cranes and other unusual birds. Florida has a very large number of wonderful parks and you can pick up brochures that describe them at any visitor center.--from S.S.
Pensacola, FL
Naval Aviation Museum on board NAS Pensacola. Pensacola has been the cradle of Navy Aviation for over 75 years and is home to the Blue Angels. Here is a great web site I found with alot of information about what you can see there.
Pensacola also has several historical forts as well as a historical section of downtown.
Sherri
Titusville, FL
Canaveral National Seashore
(407) 267-1110
GEORGIA for information call 1-800-847-4842
Atlanta, GA
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
(770) 399-8070
Hampton, GA
Atlanta Motor Speedway - Take a van tour of the inside pit and even get to ride on the track. Adults $4.00, children $2 or $3. If you have a big group then the coordinator gets in free and everyone leaves with a souviner die cast car (HotWheels sizes). Very cool for NASCAR fans.
Jackson, GA
Dauset Trails - Self guided tour of local animals in rehab. Picnic area available. No charge but donations accepted
Locust Grove, GA - Noah's Ark Animal Rehabilitation Preservation- paved walking tour with guides (on some days) and self guided on some days. Monkeys, bintorongs, lions, bobcats, wolves, exotic birds, farm animals, ostrichs,emus, bears, tigers and amphibians. It is free however they do accept donations since they are privately funded.
HAWAII there is no toll free number listed
Hawaii Volcanoes, HI
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
(808) 985-6000
Makawao, HI
Haleakala National Park
(808) 572-9306
Oahu, HI
This is a list of things that are either free or cheap to do on Oahu. You will have to call for specific information on times or prices.
*Dole Plantation
*Pipeline Beach
*Sunset Beach (winter surfing. NOTE: these two beaches have extremely strong undercurrents during winter months and are definitely not for small children).
*Malaekahana State Recreation Area (Makuauia Bird Refuge)
* Blow Hole ( Whale watching in the winter)
* Diamond Head Crater (you can hike this one to the top)
* Waikiki
*Fort De Russy Military museum
* Hale Koa Swimming Pool
* Hilton Hawaiian village (free show Friday evenings, music, hula, fireworks)
*Kodak Show (Kapiolani Park, Waikiki Shell, Tues thru Thurs. 10:00 am) This is a GOOD one, and it is FREE.
* Punchbowl National Cemetery (FREE)
*Pali Lookout
*Foster Botanical Garden (this is free on Saturdays (but check to be sure) and a small fee other times).
* Aloha Stadium Swap Meet (Wed, Sat, Sun). Good year sale venue and also new items for souvenirs.
* Arizona Memoria, Pearl Harbor (this is one of the best sites here on the island, the tour includes a very informative movie on the bombing, a shuttle boat ride over the Arizona, and its all FREE).--from Janine
IDAHO for information call 1-800-635-7820
ILLINOIS for information call 1-800-223-0121
Chicago, IL
Chicago Children's Museum
Navy Pier
Free Thursday nights, 7 to 9 p.m.
Otherwise, $6.50 per person, but use your Fresh Values card from Dominick's to get 2-for-1 admission at any time! Also a charge for parking unless you take public transportation! TONS of things for children of ALL ages to do. There's also a huge ferris wheel on the pier for a bonus! (There is a fee.)
Lincoln Park Zoo
2200 North Cannon Drive at Lake Shore Drive
Free Everyday, Parking is $5.00
Hours: 9-5:00 --from D.J.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences
435 East Illinois Street at Lakeshore Drive
Phone:(773) 549-0600
Free on TUESDAYS
Hours: 9:39-4:30 --from D.J.
The Oprah Show
Tapes on Tues, Wed, and Thurs.
Tickets are free but you must call for reservations.
Phone: (312) 591-9222 call between 9-5:00 Central Time
1058 W. Washington (at the corner of Carpenter and Washington)--from D.J.
Elk Grove Village, Illinois
Fountain Park
Free - Playground slash water park! Water only on in the summer months, of course. Non-residents: $1 per person.
Harrisburg, IL
Ancient rock formations offer breathtaking vistas along an easy, clean, rock-paved walking pathfrom J.
Metropolis, IL
Fort Massac Annual Encampment (mid-Oct.)
Set right on the Ohio River, there is a standing fort (not original) and the remains of the original fort. Beautiful setting and the end of the major rendezvous season. -- from KM
Prairie du Rocher, IL
Fort de Chartres annual encampment
Historical reenactment on during the first week of June (every year, depending on the flood situation). There is a standing fort, although not an original.-- from KM
Schaumburg
Spring Valley Nature Center
Many free events including nature walks and feeding the animals.
Wheaton, Illinois
Cosley Animal Farm
Free, but donations accepted Also, $3 tour available (price is per child, adults are free)
INDIANA there is no toll free number listed
Bloomington, IN
Visitor's Center Web Site; or email at cvb@visitbloomington.com
Oliver Winery
Located 7 miles north of town on Route 37. Offers fre tastings and a free tour on weekends.
Butler Winery
Located in town on College Ave. Offers free tastings.
Lake Griffy
It offers a nice hiking trail, as does Lake Monroe (which is a huge and spreads all over Monre County and surrounding areas). Both lakes also offer boating, fishing, etc. though usually for a fee. There is a firetower at Hoosier National Forest just southeast of town that has a great view and is a nice place for a picnic or hike.
The Indiana University Art Museum
Located on the campus of Indiana University. Mosst of the art is on loan so you can't carry a cost or bag other than a purse.
Mathers Museum on Indiana Avenue
Features exhibits about different cultures. It is a good place for kids and adults alike.
Wylie House
Located on Second Street. This was the house of Andrew Wylie, first president of IU. It is open for tours Tues-Sat. 1-4 pm and has really nice gardens.
The Jordan Greenhouse
Located on the Indiana University Campus. They give tours or you can browse on your own.-from M.F.
Columbus, IN
Archetecture Tour
Many people already know about Columbus' neat buildings. It is intentional on the part of the city to make sure the buildings are aesthetically pleasing.
Heston, IN
Hesston Steam & Power Show
Located in LaPorte County. Observe antique farm equipment in operation or ride through the countryside by rail. Hesston Steam Museum 1201 E. 1000 N., Heston, IN 12pm-5pm; fee for rides, but no admission fee for show.
Indianapolis, IN
Children's Museum
It isn't free, but it is really cheap (like $4 for adults). It is huge and a lot of fun, especially for kids. - from L.W.
Lafayette, IN
Fort Ouiatenon, Feast of the Hunter's Moon (last weekend of September, but check for sure)
There is an entrance fee. It is HUGE! Tens of thousands of visitors to this event. Lots to see: fife and drum, fashion shows (18th century), dancing demonstrations, black powder demonstrations, Native American dancing and music, more stuff than you can see in one weekend. -- from KM
Laporte, IN
Luhr County Park, 3178 S. 150 West, Laport, IN
A unique 73 acre outdoor area with a nature center hiking trails and a natural prairie area. An observation platform allows a birds-eye view of the mammals that inhabit the area. Countless bird species, small woodland animals, deer, and waterfowl predominate. -- from A. W.
Logansport, Indiana
A gorgeous carousel that was hand-carved in the 1800's by Gustav Dentzel. It has been painstakingly restored and housed in a beautiful building in a city park, Riverside Park. It only costs fifty cents to ride the carousel, and as you ride, you try to "grab the brass ring". Dozens of rings are dispensed, and the rider who grabs the brass ring gets a free carousel ride! The carousel was modified during restoration to accomodate wheelchairs, and the local nursing home residents are some of the most faithful riders.
Michigan City, IN
Concerts in the Park
Listen to the sounds of Michigan City Municipal Band as they perform a summer series of concerts in Washington Park. Buy Foreman Bicentennial Amphitheater, Lakefront; 8pm-9:10pm; no admission fee (219) 879-9165.--from A.W.
Muncie, IN
Ball Jar Museum
Located at Ball Corporation at 345 S. High St. Muncie, IN.
Phone: (765) 747-6100
The exhibit of Ball Canning Jars is free to the public and open Mon-Fri 9:00-4:00. The Ball Corporation no longer makes these canning jars, but the museum of the jar's history is still maintained at the corporate office.--from D.J.
Ball State University Museum of Art
Located in the Art Building on campus
Phone: (765) 285-5242
Admission is free and the museum is open Mon-Fri during the semester (closed during school breaks)--from D.J.
Nashville, IN
Brown County State Park just north of Bloomington is one of the nicest parks in the state. Cost is minimal for entry. There is a firewatchers tower to climb, miles of beautiful hiking trails, horseback riding (for a fee) swimming pool (small fee) and lakes for fishing. Check out Nashville for the quaint shops, several museums and loads of "atmosphere".
Porter, IN
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Mount Baldy, US Hwy. 12
The National Lakeshore features miles of wooded hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and impressive sand dunes. Mount Baldy stands an imposing 123 feet tall and actually moves southward at a rate of four-five feet each year. Delicate wild flowers, colorful foliage, and abundant woodland wildlife inhabit this protect natural wonderland. For more information contact the National Lakeshore Visitor Center, US 12 and Kemil Road, Porter, IN; (219) 926-7561. -- from A.W.
IOWA for information call 1-800-345-4692
KANSAS for information call 1-800-252-6727
Garden City
Garden City boasts the largest outdoor FREE swimming pool and a wonderful, no-admission zoo with free parking (the pool and zoo are right next to each other!). It would be a great break from the road, especially for those traveling with children!
BDL
Kansas City
Overland Park KS (suburb) has a wonderfulChildren's Farmstead called Deanna Rose. Free admission. There are many animals to view, including native midwestern and farm animals. You can put quarters in the machine to buy handfuls of food if you wish. You can go into the pens with mini goats and pet them. There are picnic areas and playgrounds. There is a large playground right across the parking lot, with shade and picnic tables close by. There are lovely gardens of flowers and vegetables. There is a newly opened historic area with an 1800's schoolhouse and Native American dwellings to tour. More buildings are planned for this display. There are hayrides for $2. They have rental fishing poles for catch-and-release on the pond. They sell bag lunches or you can bring in picnic food. It is just south of 135th St and Switzer. Open April 1- Oct .
KENTUCKY for information call 1-800-225-8747
Mammoth Cave, KY
Mammoth Cave National Park
(502) 758-2328
LOUISIANA for information call 1-800-334-8626
MAINE for information call 1-800-533-9595
Bar Harbor, ME
Acadia National Park
(207)288-3338
MARYLAND there is no toll free number listed
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore Zoo
If you have small children in child care or a school, you can arrange a field trip to go to the zoo. Admission is free for any trip associated with an educational institution that contains 15 or more persons (any age). Just give the zoo a call and ask about school trips.--from M.M.
Berlin, MD
Assateague Island National Seashore
(410) 641-1441
MASSACHUSETTS there is no toll free number listed
Boston
The Charlestown Navy Yard Museum
Boston
The Swan Boats
Boston Public Garden
(617) 522-1966
The boats run daily (weather permitting) from 1000AM-400PM, May-September. One ride is $2 ($1 for kids 2-15).
Charlestown
The USS Constitution ("Old Ironsides")
(617) 242-5928
Wellfleet, MA
Cape Cod National Seashore
(508) 255-3421
MICHIGAN for information call 1-800-543-2937
Empire, MI
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
(616) 326-5134
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Soo Locks
The Corps of Engineers has taken many steps to enhance the beauty of the Soo Locks. A Visitor's Center is open to the public from May to November. The center contains a working model of a lock, which illustrates the entire operation; a motion picture theater featuring a film on the history and operation of the locks, as well as many other artifacts, charts, maps, and photographs of interest.--from D.J.
Plymouth, MI
Kellog Park
Located right downtown Plymouth, MI. There is live entertainment for kids, FREE! Families can come and picnic and listen to music, storytellers, puppeteers, etc. Its great fun! Plymouth, MI is located approximately 20-25 minutes west of Detroit. For more information you can contact the Plymouth Community Arts Council at (313) 416-4ART.--from R.
MINNESOTA for information call 1-800-657-3700
Minneapolis, MN
CedarFest
In Minneapolis at the end of July or beginning of August (it changes from year to year). Admission is FREE and it is a good place for people who want to hear a variety of bands for not a lot of money (mostly local bands, but some national). For those of you with "apathetic" teens this gives them a chance to dance and work off some steam. CAUTION: they do serve alcohol and it's usually packed, so you may not want to go with younger children or toddlers. -- from M.N.
Shakopee, MN
Murphy's Landing
Admission if $2 for adults and $1 for kids. This 19th century working town has demonstrations of how the pioneers settled and lived along the river (also known as ""Spookyworld": in October when they have haunted hayrides, but this is more expensive, around $7 each).--from M.N.
St. Paul, MN
Como Park Zoo
Admission is FREE and includes the zoo and aquarium. There are also rides for younger children, but there is probably a cost for these. --from M.N.
Como Park Conservatory
There is a small admission fee (around $.75 for adults and children are free). This is a BEAUTIFUL indoor garden (open year round) with several different kinds of plants, trees, fountains, and they often have special tours for seniors and children. In the spring and summer there are evening concerts. -- from M.N.
Highlandfest
In St. Paul on the second weekend in August (but check on the date to be sure). This event is FREE and has a variety of bands, but it's more suitable for people with kids of all ages. They usually have facepainting, clowns, games, etc. for younger kids, and all kinds of family activities. --from M.N.
Uptown Art Fair
This even is the first weekend in August. This is a good event for older kids and/or couples. Younger children may not get much out of it. There are bands of every sort, local artisans set up booths of their wares (lots of beautiful to funky things, but beware: most things are NOT cheap). Parking is tough to find. This is a VERY popular event so be prepared to come early.--from M.N.
Powderhorn Park Art Fair.
The 3rd or 4th weekend in July. This event if family friendly. This is a small art fair and is good for those seeking interesting and/or culturally diverse events. There is usually a Pow-Wow for the local Lacotah-Dakota tribes that is open to the public, and a lot of the art/crafts have a Native American, Hmong, or African influence. There are games and face painting for younger kids, and it's held in the park, so you can bring your own lunch and make a picnic of it. -- from M.N.
Lakes, Lakes, and more Lakes
Minnesota is called the "land of 10,000 lakes". Most of the lakes in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area have paddle boats, bikes (including tandem bikes -- cheaper for a family that can all ride), rollerblades, and/or canoes that you can rent for about $3-$5 for an hour (it's a little more the whole day, but it's not significantly more). Be warned though, the locals love doing this too, so the lakes will be crowded, but there's always room for more! -- from M.N.
"________ DAYS"
Every little town in Minnesota has a "Days" (Bachelor Days, Jess James Days, Buffalo Days, etc.). If you're flexible you can just about hit a different "Days" every weekend in the summer/early fall. The Office of Tourism might be able to help you find these. The number is 1-800-657-3700. -- from M.N.
MISSISSIPPI for information call 1-800-647-2290
Ocean Springs, MS
Gulf Islands National Seashore
(601) 875-0821
MISSOURI there is no toll free number listed
St. Louis, MO
In Forest Park
There is the Art Museum, the Historical Museum, the Zoo (free parking BEFORE 8:30), the Muny Opera has limited free seating in the last few rows, but be there about 2 hours early and call for details. The Jewel Box (floral displays) has a slight charge.--from C. D.
Anheuswer-Busch Brewery
Receive a 1 1/2 hour tour.--from C.D.
Grants Farm
The park itself is free, parking is $6. Grants Farm is only open April to October. grantsfarm.com
The Magic House - for $6.50 this is a great place for kids. Lots of exhibits including science, "magic", art, and a play grocery store, travel agency, restaurant, bank, etc. and fishing area and much more. magichouse.org It is also free the 3rd Friday of each month after 5:30 pm.
St. Louis Science Center could be a full day of educational fun. General admission is free, but the cost of the Omnimax movie is well worth it! slsc.org
The St. Louis Art Museum in Forest Park has free general admission - and has a mummy! slam.org
A number of great bike trails mv24.org/trails.html including the Katy Trail, a rail-to-trail conversion that runs from St. Charles to Sedalia and passes through wine country (with wineries that offer tours and samples),
St. Louis Zoo
St. Charles, MO
Lewis & Clark Heritage Days in Frontier Park. Celebrates the 5 days that Meriwether Lewis and Wm. Clark spent in St. Charles gathering supplies and personnel before they left on their journey west. 18th century military parade, colors ceremonies, skirmish, fife and drum muster and lots of friendly people willing to tell you about the history of their uniforms, clothing, crafts, etc. --from KM
MONTANA for information call 1-800-541-1447
West Glacier, MT
Glacier National Park
(406) 888-7800
NEBRASKA for information call 1-800-228-4307
NEVADA for information call 1-800-638-2328
Boulder City, NV
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
(702) 293-8907
NEW HAMPSHIRE for information call 1-800-346-3687
Merrimack, NH
Budweiser Brewery - Tour the brewery to see how the world-famous beer is made, then relax in their lodge with complimentary tastings of their various beverages with accompanying snacks. The kids will enjoy visiting the enormous Clydesdale horses in the "Old World" style hamlet within the brewery's beautifully landscaped grounds. budweisertours.com/docs/nh.htm#
NEW JERSEY for information call 1-800-537-7397
Paramus
Van Saun Park/Bergen County Zoological Park - County park includes a big playground, several picnic areas, tennis courts, walking paths. The zoo is free on Monday-Thursday; a nominal fee is charged on Fridays, weekends, and holidays. A train ride around the zoo is 75 cents. Food is available for an extra charge.
Sandy Hook, N.J.
Twin Lights Museum
Located on Hwy. 36, with signs showing the way once you reach the city of Highlands.
There are two lighthouses towers, only one is open for the public to see out of, the other is a working lighthouse. It is open in the summers only. Inside there is a museum with paintings and some items from the 1800's. There is also a beach at Sandy Hook that has a few museums and Fort Hancock, a turn of the century military base which is now a part of the park. There is a parking fee from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but before and after that the parking is free and bicyclists have always been welcomed. --from K.J.
Leonardo, N.J.
Hartshorne Park
There are nature walks and mountain biking trails. It is located on Hwy. 36.--from K.J.
NEW MEXICO for information call 1-800-545-2040
Alamagordo, NM
White Sands National Monument
Giant snow-white sand dunes! Bring a sled or a snowboard and pretend it's hot snow. Feels like you're on another planet. Cost is $4 per vehichle. (505) 479-6124
Dog Canyon
Tucked inside the Mountains of Alamagordo, where the Calvary was ambushed many times by the Indians, Oliver Lee Memorial St. Park.
Albuquerque, NM
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Indian dances, cultural displays museum. $3 for the museum but the dances (the best part!) are FREE. Call for schedules at (800) 766-4405. - from TJBC
Old Town Albuquerque Gun Fights
Old Town Plaza
Re-enactments of bank robberies with the good guys shooting it out on the street. Every Sunday afternoon (around 1:00pm) and it is FREE. Old Town Plaza is a great place for windo shopping for Indian crafts and jewelry too.
Rattlesnake Museum
Located in Old Town Plaza at 202 San Felipe (505) 242-6569. Lots of live snakes and only $1 to get in.
Petroglyph National Monument and Volcanoes
Million year old volcanoes to climb, and thousand year old petroglyphs (wall drawings). FREE (505)899-0205.
Carlsbad, N M
Carlsbad Caverns
(505) 785-2232
Jemez Springs, NM
Soda Dam, Battleship Rock, and Natural Springs
Water from the warm to steaming and really neat rock formations. Some areas are clothing optional, so ask before you visit if that's a problem! (505) 829-3535
Madrid, NM
Located on Hwy 14 between Albuquerque and Sante Fe. Used to be a ghost town until hippie artists started squatting in the buildings in the 60's; now it's a thriving community and popular tourist stop. There's an authentic soda fountain with all the original equipment-worth the price of a root beer float just to sit there.
Sandia Park, NM
Sandia Crest
Located just over the mountains from Albuquerque. Skip the expensive and highly advertised tram ride, and take a beautiful drive up to the crest instead. The cost is $3 per car to park at the top, take I-40 to Hwy 14 North to NM 536 (Sandia Creest Road) 13 miles STRAIGHT UP through some perfectly gorgeous scenery. Visitor's Center, snack bar, hiking trails at the top, with incredible view of Albuquerque 5000 feet below! (505) 243-0605-from TJBC
Tinkertown Museum, Sandia Park
Located on NM 536 on the way up to the Sandia Crest. The most unique and unforgettable wierd little place in New Mexico, an amazing, animated, miniature Old West Town and Three Ring Circus. Thousands of hand-carved human and animal figures and antique toys. Walls made of glass bottles, tires, you name it! And a walk-on sailing boat that went around the world. Great Gift shop! Cost is $2.50 for adults, less for kids. Open April-October. (505) 281-5233
Tijeras, NM
Sierra Goat Farm
Located on South Hwy 14 (NM 337). Pet the goats, feed the goats, milk a nanny goat, sample goat's milk and ice cream. Particularly fun in the spring when there are tons of baby goats to cuddle. Free (for families-charge for large groups). (505) 281-5061.
Santa Fe, NM
Bandelier National Monument
Located 50 miles NW of Santa Fe. Anasazi Indian ruins with kivas, cliff dwellings, and tons of ladders to climb. Great for kids. Cost is $5 per car. (505) 672-3861
NEW YORK for information call 1-800-225-5697
Albany, NY
New York State Museum Madison Avenue, Cultural Education Center, Empire State Plaza, (518) 474-5877, nysm.nysed.gov/. This museum includes exhibits on a variety of New York sites, culture, and history. There is a kid's discovery area and a carousel too. Admission is free; suggested donation of $2/person or $5/family. Adjacant to Empire State Plaza, an open area with reflecting pools, sculptures, and memorials.
Brooklyn, NY
Gateway National Recreation Area
(718) 338-3338
Buffalo, NY
The Karpells Manuscript Museum is free. The Karpell family has generously collected and donated some interesting old documents (historic letters, patents, etc) and is housing them in a beautifully restored ornate church in Buffalo. When we were there they let the kids hold a baptismal record from France that was printed on goatskin and was over 800 years old! There is a similar one in Duluth, Minnesota.
Letchworth State Park is a hidden oasis in NY state, an hour east of Buffalo. Locals call it the Grand Canyon of New York. It has beautiful gorges and 3 waterfalls with a total height greater than Niagara Falls. There is a wonderful walking path along the gorge. Cost is daily admission to the park. There are cabins and campgrounds available.
Just minutes east of Buffalo in Williamsville, NY is Glen Park. This park is free and has a lovely view of a waterfall and a pond, a creek and walking paths. This is a common place for locals to come for wedding photographs.
Buffalo is the starting place of the Erie Canal. There is a walking/biking path along the historic Erie canal.
Hudson River, NY
United States Military Academy at West Point
Located on the Hudson River in N.Y. is the US Military Academy. There is no admission charge for the museum. You can get a free map from the visitor's center which will guide you on a driving tour of the campus. There is a display in the visitor's center which shows what a cadet's accommodations are like. Also in the visitor's center is a short video presentation. Across from the information desk in an area where you can pick up brochures on other local areas of interests. --from Stephanie
New York City, NY
The Staten Island Ferry goes from Manhattan (the southern tip) to the northern tip of Staten Island. It goes right in front of the Statue of Liberty and you get one of the best views of the Manhattan skyline. You also pass by Governors Island, Ellis Island and you can see Verrazanno Narrows Bridge. The ride is about 25-30 minutes long and only costs $0.50. Best of all, after July 1st, it is going to be completely free.--from S.R.
Central Park
In the summer the New York Philharmonic offers free outdoor concerts in the park. So does the Metropolitan Opera. Summerstage and Shakespeare in the Park are also free Central Park events. (Summerstage is an assortment of cultural events.) There are also free tours (ee.g. bird watching, etc.) offered by the Urban Park Rangers in the Park.
NORTH CAROLINA for information call 1-800-847-4862
Manteo, NC
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
(919) 473-2111
Spencer, NC
Transportation Museum
Located in Spencer, N.C. - about 40 miles north of Charlotte on I-85 or 50 miles South of Greensboro on I-85.
This place has everything. Spencer used to be a major hub on the train network in the U.S. There is a restored round house, train rides, classic cars, all kinds of restored trains. And the best part, you can go in and look around as much as you want for FREE. If you want to donate you can, there are boxes around. You can also ride the train turnaround machine for a $1.00, or ride a real steam loco for $3-$4.00. You can spend several hours here. -- from B.S.
NORTH DAKOTA for information call 1-800-437-2077
OHIO for information call 1-800-282-5393
Brecksville, OH
Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area
(216) 526-5256
Cincinnati, OH
The Serpentine Wall and Bicentennial Commons Area
Located in Cincinnati along the Ohio River. The area offers a wonderful play area for children, a large wading pool during the summer months, as well as roller blading and a walking trail along the river. Throughout the summer months there are often free concerts by the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and local radio stations sponsor after work parties weekly. In addition, there is a Kid's fest during June with plenty for the family to do that is free.--from M.R.
Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati Art Museum
Cleveland, OH
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
It isn't free, but on Mondays it is dramatically discounted.--from L.C.M.
The Science Museum
The museum's McDonald's is worth the trip. It has garbage cans that talk to you and a robot that makes fries at standard McDonald's prices.--from L.C.M.
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Often free during the week.--from L.C.M.
Lolly the Trolly
The trolly is free to the Galleria Mall and the drivers love to give tours. Lolly the Trolley is kind of a local phenomena around here. Cleveland has a web site at: www.cleveland.com--from L.C.M.
Dayton
Wright Patterson Air Force Museum
Located about 1 hour south of I70 (follow signs to the Museum, not the base itself). The museum is free to the public and has some wonderful displays. There is an IMAX theater that does have a charge, but the exhibits are free.--from D.J.
Portsmouth
The Flood Wall along the Ohio River has a series of murals painted on it by artist Robert Daft. They depict the history of the area and highlight celebrities from the area such as Roy Rogers. The murals can be viewed from your car as there are parking spaces along the length of the wall. Inside the flood wall itself, there is a park with swings, etc. for children and picnic tables. The view of the river is nice and refreshing. -from Lisle
OKLAHOMA for information call 1-800-652-6552
OREGON for information call 1-800-547-7842
Ashland, OR
For information you can call the Chamber of Commerce at (514) 482-9377-from C.A.
Bonneville Dam & Fish Hatchery
When you drive 1-84 to Multnomah Falls, continue past the falls (about 10 miles) to the Bonneville Dam and Fish Hatchery. Dads love to visit the dam and watch the fish swim up the enclosed fish ladder. Kids love to visit the sturgeon pond. The fish (trout) are so used to being fed they come to the surface and kids can "pet" them. "Tickle the fish" is always a winning tourist trip.
Oregon Shakespeare Festivel
An internationally known theatre company. Every day during the summer the festival puts a free "greens show" in the early evening before the productions. It's a production of renaissance dance and music (played on original instruments and sung) done in period costume. This show lasts about 45 minutes. - from C.A.
Hwy 101 from Lincoln City to Florence. The most beautiful scenery ever!!! So many free places to stop and look, it may take you 8 hours to drive 60 miles.
Oregon City - Oregon City's free municpal elevator. Free visitor passes are issued upon request. Also visit the End of The Oregon Trail exhibit, minimal cost. Great for kids and grown-ups.
Rouge Valley
This area is becoming known as the second "Napa Valley" because of its wineries. Some of the wineries offer free tours, but of course they would like you to buy their wine.
Lithia Park
There's two ponds and a bandshell where the city band plays music every Thursday night during the summer. The State Ballet of Oregon gives occassional dance performances for free during the summer. There are other areas of interest; a traditional Japanese rock garden, a water fountain; a children's play area and a nearby wading/swiming area.
Crater Lake, OR
Crater Lake National Park
(541) 594-2211
Portland, OR
Washington Park
>From downtown Portland take Hwy 26 to the zoo exit. A multitude of signs will lead you to the various attractions. You can easily spend a few days here at these points of interest:
* International Rose Test Garden (FREE). View experimental varieties of roses and an awesome view of downtown. Bring a picnic and enjoy the sun.
* Hoyt Arboretum (FREE). Hiking trails explore flora and fauna dedicated to our veterans.
* Veterans Memorial (FREE). Very tranquil, manicured garden dedicated to our veterans.
* Washington Park Zoo (minimal cost. If you have a membership to another zoo they may let you in for free. It is work asking!)
* Japanese Gardens (about $5 for adults). This is a very peaceful place to enjoy the carefully manicured gardens. Young children and the elderly may have a hard time with this one as there is some uphill walking and some "no touch" zones.
* World Forestry Center (about $5 per adult). Interesting museum dedicated to tree. --from S.S.
Mutnomah Falls
Admission is FREE. It is a very scenic drive east on I 84 along the Columbia Gorge which will lead you to several beautiful waterfall areas. Multnomah is the biggest. There are hiking trails as well. -- from S.S.
Salem, OR
State Capital
You can tour the capital building for free.--from L.C.
Mission Mill Museum
Located in the Willamette Valley, Oregon.
Admission is $1.00 per person, the grounds are free to tour.--from L.C.
NOTE: This is a great state to visit because there is no sales taxes.
PENNSYLVANIA for information call 1-800-847-4872
Bushkill, PA
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
(717) 588-2451
Harrisburg, PA
Capital Building
Touring the building is free.-from N.D.
The State Museum
Admission is free.
Hershey, PA
Chocolate World
A free attraction that offers a ride explaining where chocolate comes from and how it is made. Within the building there are also specialty shops, clothing, souveniers, etc. Very nicely done.
Philadelphia, PA
Women's International Convention sponsored by Acme. This event is held once a year. Besides all the booths that are related to women there are companies such as Tropicanna, Colgate, Breyers, etc. At each booth you can receive free samples of their products. Some companies give away full size products. Tickets are $7 (or $6 if you purchased the ticket from Acme) you can eat all day and fill your shopping bag with great stuff. -- from D. W.
RHODE ISLAND for information call 1-800-556-2484
SOUTH CAROLINA there is no toll free number listed
SOUTH DAKOTA for information call 1-800-843-1930
Interior, SD
Badlands National Park
(605) 433-5361
Lemmon, South Dakota
Lemmon is home of the world's largest Petrified Wood Park. The park and park's museum are free and provide lots of great family entertainment.
Also located in Lemmon is the Grand River Museum, displaying dinosaur fossils found at local dig sites. Visits to the Grand River Museum are free. Kids can participate in a special treasure hunt. Day and week long digs are also available. The digs are inexpensive compared to most, and, unlike many digs, participants are actually allowed to participate in the excavating and preparation of fossils along side of professional paleontologists.
The Grand River Museum also contains a collection of items and displays depicting the area's Native American culture and Cowboy heritage. Stays at guest ranches are available also, for a fee.
Shadehill Reservoir provides camping, fishing and water recreation, as well as some nice areas to hike. It is a State Park and there is a small entrance fee.
Judy L.
TENNESSEE for information call 1-800-447-8278
Cades Cove This is the most wonderful place I can think of that I've ever been. There's something so serene and magical about this place. Oh it's beautiful! It's full of history about how people, especially mountain people, had to live in the old days. On another note, it's sad how the government comes in and can forcibly take one's land. The whole community having to move so that this could be turned into a park.... A link to a website about them is below. It takes a while to get through the mountains to visit but if you like history and scenic driving, this is it! There's houses and churches still standing to see and also graveyards.... Well, I could go on and on but the site should tell a lot. It's free but there are donation boxes located throughout the park.
Gatlinburg, TN
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
(423) 436-1200
Kingsport, TN
Fun Fest which is held the last week of July in Kingsport. The whole week is "almost" free fun. Some events have tickets ($1.00) just because of the crowds and most others are free. There are several concerts and events for children.--from L.B.
Lynchburg, TN
Jack Daniels' Distillery, located in Lynchburg, TN, which is about 2 hours south of Nashville. It is a free tour that takes approximately 1 1/2 hours. At the end you are given lemonade. The distillery is located in a dry county so you are not given any whiskey. Lynchburg is a very small town with lots of shops. This makes for a very inexpensive day. --from J.W.
Miss Bob's Boarding House
They serve lunch family style and reservations are required. -- from J.W.
TEXAS for information call 1-800-888-8839 or 1-800-422-7989
Abilene, TX
Abilene Grace Cultural Center
102 Cypress Street, Abilene, TX (915) 673-4587
Art museum, historical museum and children's museum.
Hours: Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat. 10 am - 5 pm
Thurs. 10 am - 8:30 pm
Closed Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays
Admission is $2 adults, $1 children 12 and under
FREE ON THURSDAYS from 5 pm - 8:30 pm
<A HREF="http://www.abilene,com/moa">Web site at: http://www.abilene,com/moa</A>
Austin, TX
Zilker Park
Frisbee, golf courses, a super playscape, and nearby famous Barton Springs Pool (which does cost but not too much), there is also a train that runs through the park which is something like a $1.00 per person.-from H.U.
Austin Nature Center
Located new Zilker Park, there is no charge to visit, however, donations are accepted. They have live animals, loads of exhibits, a nature detective trail, and also several other nature trails.--from H.U.
LBJ Library and the Texas Memorial Museum
Located on the University of Texas campus. Both of these are free and extremely interesting.--from H.U.
State Capital Building and the Governor's Mansion
Both allow you to take a free tour.--from H.U.
Town Lake concerts
Located on the Colorado River which runs through Austin.
In the summer there are free outdoor concerts and plays performed on the shores. This is also the proud home of one of the largest urban bat colonies and people flock to the Town Lake Bridge at dusk to see the bats emerge for the nightly feeding time.--from H.U.
Austin Children's Museum
Admission is $2.50 per person, but ther s a little known fact - they have an open door policy. That means that if you want to go there but are strapped for cash you just ask to be admitted under the "open door policy" and in you go!--from H.U.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
It costs $5 a carload and has a really nice swim area with a sand area. Lots of picnic tables, bathroom facilities, and showers. You could even camp there if you wish.--from H.U.
Corpus Christi, TX
Padre Island National Seashore
(512) 949-8068
El Paso, TX
Hueco Tanks State Park
Several miles east on Hwy 180, an ancient Indian settlement area, where the native Americans lived while taversing through the region. Includes hyroglyphs/petroglyphs. The fees are only a $4 dollars per car, to hike around and carry picnics in.
Mission Trail
from Soccoro to Ysleta, in the lower valley, visit the missions built by the Native Americans/Spaniards, passing from Mexico to the US.-this can then be followed up the Upper Valley area-Don Juan De Onate trail, which leads up into New Mexico. It follows the Mission trails, north. Many onion fields and Chile fields trim the small highway, and gorgeous historic towns highlight the area. This road leads to Old Mesilla, where the famous La Posta Resturant is.(Wonderful New Mexican food!)
Galveston, Texas
NOAA/NMFS Sea Turtle Facility - 4900 Crockett - 409-766-3670 - Free tours offered Tue., Thurs. and Sat. at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. - "the center is dedicated to preserving the most endangered species of sea turtle in the world, the Kemp's Ridley"
Self-guided tours, with sef-guiding brochure: East End Historic District Tour, Historic Downtown District and Waterfront Tour, Post Office Street Tour
Galveston Island Ferry< - End of Ferry Road on Highway 87 - 409-763-2386 - Free: Runs 24 Hours - "Drive aboard or park in the lot to walk onto the ferry. Thri trip from Galveston to Port Bolivar and back (2.7 miles each way offers a tour of the Intracoastal Waterway and views of Seawork Park and the Bolivar Lighthouse."
Drive or walk along the Galveston Seawall to enjoy the beaches, shops, and the architecture of the hotels. Look for the gun bunkers that protected the Gulf during World War II and the Cuban Missle Crisis and the Texas Heroes Monument.
Lake Jackson, Texas
Sea Center Texas - tpwd.state.tx.us - Indoor aquariums with all kinds of fish, touch tanks, outdoor ponds, breeding tanks, etc.
Tyler, TX
Rose Gardens
Located in Tyler, Texas, these gardens are free to visit. -- from M.K.
UTAH ther is no toll free number listed
Bryce Canyon, UT
Bryce Canyon
(801) 834-5322
Moab, UT
Arches National Park
(801) 259-8161
Canyonlands National Park
(801) 259-7164
Salt Lake City
Temple Square -- The famous Mormon Temple, Tabernacle and Visitors Center of the LDS Church (located at South Temple and West Temple)
The Beehive House (Brigham Young's Home) 67 E. South Temple, S.L.C.; (801) 240-2671. Built 1854 as the principal residence for Brigham Young, President of the Mormon Church and first governor of Utah. Includes many early furnishings and toys. Free tours run every 30 minutes.
Museum of Church History, 45 N. West Temple, S.L.C.; (801) 240-3310. Located across the street from Temple Square, this museum exhibits artifacts, artwork, photographs and other memorabilia of Mormon history. Also look for special exhibits showcasing Mormon culture from around the world.
If you'll be in Utah on a Sunday Morning -- You will not want to miss the Tabernacle Choir. The Tabernacle Choir performs Sunday mornings at 9:30 (you must be in your seat by 9:15) in the Tabernacle and rehearses Thursdays at 8:00 P.M. All concerts and rehearsals are open to the public. 50 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah 84150
Springdale, UT
Zion National Park
(801) 772-3256
VERMONT for information call 1-800-837-6668
Shelburne
Vermont Teddy Bear Factory - (802) 985-3001. Take a very entertaining tour to learn how Vermont Teddy Bears are made. $2 for adults; children under 12 are free.
Waterbury
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory - Tour the factory, receive free samples, and learn about Ben & Jerry and their business. There's even a "graveyard" for flavors that didn't work out! Admission is $3 for adults; children under 12 are free.
Norman Rockwell Exhibition & Gift Shop
Historic Route 7A, Arlington, Vermont - (802) 375-6423
Chock full of reproductions of Saturday Evening Post covers, calendar illustrations, all kinds of stuff to buy. Video presentation of Rockwell's life and art. Staffed by people who used to model for Rockwell's illustrations when he lived in Arlington. Nominal entrance fee.
A.C.
Springfield, VT
Battle reenactments Saturday and Sunday (mid-August). This is not a historic battle, just the British and the Colonists duking it out. They take turns winning.--from KM
VIRGINIA for information call 1-800-248-4833
Charolttesville, VA
The University of Virginia
They offer free historical tours of the campus. There are also many local vineyards (Oakencroft, etc.) that give free tours. -from S.M.
Luray, VA
Shenandoah National Park
(540) 999-3500
I found the Route 11 potato chip factory in Middletown VA a great and fun place to go. There is no charge and they make the chips in small batches you can watch as they make them through the glass window in the store. Of course there are free samples and they taste great! rt11.como
Kathie
Williamsburg, VA
Colonial Williamsburg costs to get into the buildings, but most of the gardens are free and they often have fife and drum parades and "militia displays".--from Erica
WASHINGTON for information call 1-800-544-1800
Ashford, WA
Mount Rainier National Park
(360) 569-2211
Port Angeles, WA
Olympic National Park
(360) 452-0330
Vancouver, WA
Fort Vancouver
Admission is FREE. If driving in to Vancouver on I 5, exit on 4th ST and follow signs. This is a really cool step back into time. Docents will take you on a tour of the buildings where you learn about the lifestyle and history of early traders of the Hudson's Bay Co.--from S.S.
WEST VIRGINIA for information call 1-800-225-5982
WISCONSIN for information call 1-800-432-8747
Green Bay, WI
Bay Beach Amusement Park
1313 Bay Beach Road
On the Bay of Green Bay
(414) 448-3365
Sumer hours: 10am-9pm
Bay Beach Amusement Park offers exciting rides for all ages. Park has main pavillion with fast food, restrooms, phones, etc. The park also geaturs a baby pool, miniature train and shaded picnic areas. No admission fee. Ride tickets cost 10 cents each and rides require 1-3 tickets. Located on beautiful Green Bay,, the park also amintains a historic pavillion from days gone by.--from TEAMK4
Wildlife Sanctuary
1660 East Shore Drive
(414) 391-3671
Open year round
100 acre wildlife refuge. Hiking and cross-country ski trials, picnic area, animal exhibit and nature center. No admision fee.
Madison, WI
The Vilas Zoo
Free of charge, includes a children's discovery center, a children's petting zoo, a multitude of outdoor and indoor exhibits. Located next to the children's plark with facilities and a swimming area with beach.--from TEAMK4
Suamico, WI
Green Bay Area
Brown County Zoo, a.k.a. The NEW Zoo (NorthEast Wisconsin)
4418 Reforestation Road (Hwy IR) phone: (414) 448-4466
Open year round, hours April 1- Oct. 31 9am-6pm, Nov. 1 - March 31 9am-4pm.
Main gate closes 1/2 hour before closing time. Located 10 minutes north of Green Bay. Call for admission fee.
WYOMING for information call 1-800-225-5996
Moose, WY
Grand Teton National Park
(307) 739-3300
Yellowstone, WY
Yellowstone National Park
(307) 344-7381
This city was mentioned numerous times for its many free admission attractions. Some of the attractions mentioned:
The National Zoo
Parking is $6 for 4 hours, but there is no admission fee. There are great exhibits which included elephants, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, lion, tigers, cheetah, leopards, bears, sea lions, camels, buffaloes, apes, monkeys, orangutans, a reptile house, small mammal house, birds, prairie dogs, and of cours ea giant panda and others, Many of the animals are in a close to a natural habitat as possible.--from A.A.
All of the Smithsonian Museums are free.--from M.F.
The Washington Monument and the other many memorials are free as well.--from M.F.
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
West Edmonton Mall
It doesn't cost a penny to go to (other than the drive to get there) and there's so much to see. There is a free dolphin show, you can walk through a pirate ship, watch the submarine descend into the lagoon, watch the various rides, etc. at Galaxyland. If you are willing to spend a few dollars there's the World Waterpark. Its like being on a sunny warm beach, which is especially wonderful during out -40 degree winters!--from Jayne
Ukraninian Heritage Village
There is a cast donation (about $5). You can step back in time and see how many of the settlers in the west got their start and the kinds of houses, barns and implements the were using.--from Jayne
Nova Scotia, Canada
for information call toll free for an information package at 1-800-565-0000, good all over North American.--from D.H.
Point Pleasant Park
Located in Halifax, offers free Shakespeare productions on the weekends in their outdoor theatre for May - Sept.
Halifiax
Walk along the waterfront and see lots of shops, free entertainers, there's a casino for those who like it and the option of harbour cruises on private boats. A trip across the harbour on the ferry for $1.25. YOu can also take the ferry to McNab's Island (about 3/4 hour for about $8.00)
Peggy's Cove
Located about 1 hour outside Halifax. A great rocky abundance worth seeing. The drive along th coast of N.S. is beautiful.
Beaches
Beautiful beaches all along the coast--Risser's Beach and Hubbard's Beach along the South Shore; Cole Harbour Dyke Beach just outside Dartmouth. Also beautiful Cape Breton Island, joined to the mainland by the Causeway.
Southern Alberta, Canada
Dinosaur Provincial Park
Instead of spending money to go to the Tyrell Museum (of Dinosaurs), go directly to where they actually FOUND the dinosaur bones. Dinosaur Provincial Park, a very un-touristy place in the wild with very stunning badlands. There is a small interpretive center and spacious campground. You are free to walk in the certain areas and may even find real fossils (though not allowed to be taken out of the park, but neat to find and give to the rangers). Tours of actual digs as well as all kinds of family activities are inexpensive and VERY worthwhile. --from T. & F. H.
Stone Provincial Park
Located right near the Montana border. It's a beautiful park with the warm shallow MILK RIVER to play in with sand beaches. There are free tours of the pictographs that must be reserved ahead of time. There is a nice campground, and again very un-touristy.! -- from T. & F. H.
Saskatchewan
Don't miss the Regina Museum and Fort Walch as a companion. A very important historic site, with a fort recreated, native village, and interpretive center.--from T. & F. H.
Southern Manitoba
Don't miss the Carberry Desert, a delightful free walk. -- from T. & F. H.
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
Boyce Farmer's Market
Located on George Street. Admission is free and you can sample the wares of local entrepreneurs. --from A.B.
The Fredericton Flea Market
The market is in operation at eh Fredericton mall. It costs just $1.00 to get in.--from A.B.
St. John River trail
Fredericton boasts a beautiful walking trail along the St. John River. If you follow the trail all the way you can travel through some of the older areas, with wonderful old houses to admire. It also goes through the downtown area.
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