The best things in life–and travel–are free! Especially when you’re touring expensive cities. We rounded up some awesome completely costless activities in seven of America’s priciest places.
New York City: It’s game on in Bryant Park (pictured in our main image). Head to the northwest corner for some pick-up ping pong. You’ll find two state-of-the-art tables–and paddles and balls–all free to use. There’s also a plethora of chairs spread along the grass to just sit and watch.
Las Vegas: It pays (or saves) to venture off the strip, especially if your destination is Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Gardens. Not only is admission free, but you’ll be rewarded with sweet samples and a behind-the-scenes look at how the treats are made. Plus, next door is a garden with a large collection of cacti and plants–also free to explore.
San Francisco: Enjoy Alamo Square not just for the beautiful park but for the awesome view it affords of the painted ladies (see above picture). Look familiar? Any Full House fan will recognize this row of San Francisco houses-turned-tourist-attraction from the opening credits.
Miami: Pssst, we’ll let you in on a little secret–on the second Saturday of every month the Miami Art Museum waives admission on its contemporary art collection from 1-4 p.m. Score!
Chicago: Thanks to the Shakespeare Project of Chicago it’s possible to enjoy professional-caliber theater performances sans pricey tickets. The organization offers gratis regular readings at four venues: The Newberry Library, The Niles Public Library, The Highland Park Public Library and The Wilmette Public Library. Visit their website for specific dates and times.
Los Angeles: Though it will set you back part of a tank of gas, the otherwise-free scenic drive down the Pacific Coast Highway (aka PCH or Highway 1) affords some of the best coastal views around–and sea lion sightings.
New Orleans: The Algiers Ferry is technically a shuttle service from Canal Street to the West Bank but we like thinking of it as a free boat cruise along the Mississippi where you can admire beautiful views of the city.
(Main image: dandeluca)
