Free Things to Do in America: 20 Ideas for Your Next Trip
Travel on a budget with these free things to do in America, from free museums and national park fee-free days to scenic walks, historic sites and festivals.
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Travel doesn't have to be expensive. Some of America's best experiences are completely free. Here are 20 ideas for your next trip or weekend getaway.
Free museums and landmarks
- The Smithsonian museums, Washington, D.C.: most offer free admission, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History. Some popular exhibits use free timed passes.
- The National Mall and its memorials: the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument grounds and war memorials are free, and beautiful at night.
- The Library of Congress: stunning architecture and free tours.
- The Liberty Bell and Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia: free to visit, though Independence Hall uses timed tickets in busy seasons.
- The Gateway Arch grounds, St. Louis: the park and museum are free. The tram ride to the top costs extra.
- Many art museums offer free admission or free days. Check before you visit.
Free outdoor experiences
- National park fee-free days: the National Park Service waives entrance fees on several days each year. Check NPS.gov for the current list.
- The many national park sites that never charge an entrance fee.
- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.
- Walk the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
- Scenic drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway, which has no entrance fee. See our best scenic drives.
- Public beaches and lakeshores, though some charge parking.
- Hiking trails in national forests, many of which require no fee or only a small parking pass.
- Stargazing in dark-sky areas.
Free local experiences
- Farmers markets: free to browse, with local flavor and often live music.
- Free outdoor concerts and movies in parks during summer.
- Historic walking tours: many cities offer free self-guided tour maps, and some offer tip-based guided tours.
- Factory and brewery tours, some of which are free.
- Small-town festivals and parades, especially around the Fourth of July and harvest season.
- Public libraries: many lend free museum and state park passes to cardholders.
More budget travel tips
- Travel midweek and in shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for lower prices.
- Pack picnics and refillable water bottles.
- Ask about senior, military and AAA discounts.
- Use our road trip budget tips.
