Bargain Hunter Hotline Free Things to Do

Free Things To Do In New York City

2011-05-21T08:52:00.000-04:00

Check out the official guide for New York City to find great things to do for free. They include weekly picks. Click here to find these great ideas.

Free Tickets to Daily Show With Jon Stewart

2008-06-06T00:13:00.002-04:00

If you are planning a visit to New York and are interested in getting free tickets to see The Daily Show With Jon Stewart you can reserve tickets online. Go to the online ticket reservation system at www.thedailyshow.co/tickets.jhtml to get tickets when available.

Take A Video Tour of Your Vacation Destination

2008-04-26T20:22:00.003-04:00

Take a video tour of your next vacation destination at Vacation Destination Videos. Check out the collection of videos of various travel spots around the world. The videos can help you plan an upcoming trip. Or you can view the videos and imagine that you are on a trip to one of these vacation destinations.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Las Vegas

2008-03-13T08:53:00.001-04:00

Here is an extensive list of free things to do while on vacation in Las Vegas. This great list was found on vegas4locals.com

Bevertainment - Rio Suites Las Vegas

Big Elvis - Barbary Coast Hotel Las Vegas

CBS Television City - MGM Grand Hotel Las Vegas

Circus Acts - Circus Circus Hotel Las Vegas

Clown Show - Circus Circus Hotel Las Vegas

Dueling Pianos - Harrah's Hotel Las Vegas

Dueling Pianos - Kahunaville Las Vegas

Dueling Pianos - New York New York Las Vegas

Dueling Pianos - South Point Casino Las Vegas

Entertainers - Miracle Mile Shops Las Vegas

Exotic Bird Show - Hawaiian Marketplace Las Vegas

Fashion Shows - Fashion Show Mall Las Vegas

Festival of Fountains - Caesars Palace Las Vegas

Flair Bartender Shows - various locations

Fountains of Bellagio - Bellagio Hotel Las Vegas

Fremont Street Concerts - Fremont Street Las Vegas

Fremont Experience Light Show - Fremont Street

Fremont Street Entertainers - Fremont Street Las Vegas

German Entertainment - Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas

Harbor Rainstorm - Miracle Mile Shops Las Vegas

Hawaiian Performers - Hawaiian Marketplace Las Vegas

Karao ke - various locations

Light, Water & Sound Show - Bally's Hotel Las Vegas

Living Performance Art - The District at GVR

Lounge Entertainment - various locations

Magic Shows - various locations

O pen Air Concerts - Harrah's Las Vegas

Open Air Concerts - The District at GVR

Real Action Stunt Stage - Fremont Street Experience

Show in the Sky Parade - Rio Hotel Las Vegas

Sirens of TI - Treasure Island Hotel Las Vegas

Street Performers - Grand Canal Shoppes Las Vegas

Sunset Stampede - Sam's Town Las Vegas

Test America Preview Studios - 3 locations

Theatrical Productions - Talent Services International

Volcano Eruption - Mirage Hotel Las Vegas

Underwater Fish Feeding Show - Silverton Hotel Las Vegas

9-11 Tribute - New York New York Hotel & Casino

Acting Classes - Talent Services International

Aerial Gallery - Downtown Las Vegas

Airport Runways Viewing Area - McCarran Airport

Antiques at Main Street Station - Las Vegas

Antique Malls - Arts District Las Vegas

Auto Museum - Imperial Palace Hotel Las Vegas

Auto Museum - St. Jude's Ranch

Aquarium at Mandalay Bay - Mandalay Bay Las Vegas

Aviation History Museum - McCarran Airport Las Vegas

Barrick Natural History Museum - UNLV campus

Bellagio Botanical Gardens - Bellagio Hotel Las Vegas

Bellagio Hotel Lobby - Bellagio Hotel Las Vegas

Bonnie & Clyde Exhibit - Primm Valley Resort

Botanical Gardens - Spring Preserve

Calico Basin Red Springs - Red Rock Canyon

Centennial Murals - Downtown Las Vegas

Chocolate Factory Tour - Ethel M Chocolate Factory

Chocolate Fountain - Bellagio Hotel Las Vegas

Cigar Factory Tour - Don Pablo's Cigar Company

City Hall Bridge Gallery - City Hall, downtown Las Vegas

Coffee Roastery Tour - Coffee Roasters of Las Vegas

Coral Reef Aquarium - Mirage Hotel Las Vegas

Country Music Memorabilia - Toby Keith's Bar & Grill

Custom Bikes by Orange County Choppers - Silverton

Crazy Girls Photo Op - Riviera Hotel & Casino

Dairy Tour - Anderson Dairy

Desert Demonstration Garden - Acacia Park

ESPN Zone Art Collection - New York-New York Hotel

Fifth Street School - Downtown Las Vegas

First Fridays - Arts District, Downtown Las Vegas

Fountains at Caesars Palace - Caesars Palace

Gaming Lessons - Various locations

Gondolas - Venetian Hotel Las Vegas

Guitar Museum - Ed Roman Guitars Las Vegas

Fishing Demonstrations - Bass Pro Shops Las Vegas

Harley Memorabilia - Harley-Davidson Cafe Las Vegas

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve - Henderson

Hootie & the Blowfish Memorabilia - Silverton Hotel

Hoover Dam - Boulder City, Nevada

Interpretive Trails - Spring Preserve

Lake Las Vegas Trolley - Lake Las Vegas

Lake Mead Railroad Tunnel Trail

Lake Mead Visitor Center

Largest Gold Nugget - Golden Nugget Hotel Las Vegas

Las Vegas Info & Free Email - LVCVA Visitor Center

Lion Habitat - MGM Grand Hotel Las Vegas

M & M’s World Academy - Las Vegas

Movie Memorabilia - Planet Hollywood Las Vegas

Mystic Falls Park - Sam's Town Hotel Las Vegas

NASCAR Memorabilia - Sahara Hotel Las Vegas

Neon Museum - Las Vegas

Nevada Test Site Tour

N. Las Vegas Airport Viewing Deck

Old Post Office/Federal Building - Downtown Las Vegas

Picture with a Showgirl - Harrah's Hotel Las Vegas

Pinball Hall of Fame - Las Vegas

Red Rock Visitor Center - Red Rock Canyon

Rock Memorabilia - Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas

Rock Memorabilia - Hard Rock Casino Las Vegas

Rotunda Gallery - Clark County Government Center

Searchlight Heritage Museum

Skydiving Demonstration - Vegas Indoor Skydiving

Solar Power Research Facility - UNLV Solar Site

Sports Car Museum & Showroom - LV Speedway

Sports Hall of Fame - Las Vegas Club Hotel

Trolley Ride - The District at Green Valley Ranch

Tropical Rain F orest - Mirage Hotel Las Vegas

UNLV Desert Gardens - UNLV campus

UNLV Special Collections - University of Nevada Las Vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign - Las Vegas Boulevard

Wetlands Park - Las Vegas

White Tiger Habitat - Mirage Hotel Las Vegas

Wildlife Habitat - Flamingo Hotel Las Vegas

Wireless Internet Hotspots - various locations

Wine Tasting and Tour - Pahrump Valley Vineyards

World's Brightest Light Beam - Luxor Las Vegas

Free WiFi Hotspots in Las Vegas

2008-03-13T08:34:00.002-04:00

Here is a list of free wi-fi hotspot locations in Las Vegas to make it easy for you to access the web while on your Las Vegas vacation. This list is provided by vegas4locals.com.

The following Las Vegas hotspot locations offer free WiFi wireless Internet connections to the general public.

Apple Store in the Fashion Show Mall
3200 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Ste. 1760, Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 650-9550

Art Bar
1511 S. Main St., Las Vegas, NV 89104
(702) 437-2787

Barbeque Masters Gaming Tavern
2650 S Decatur Blvd Suite A-4, Las Vegas, NV 89102
(702) 362-7500

Buffalo Wild Wings
available at all six locations across the Las Vegas Valley

Chinatown Plaza
4083 Spring Mountain Road (outside), Las Vegas, NV 89102

The Cigar Lounge
5825 W. Sahara Ave. Ste E, Las Vegas, NV 89146
(702) 367-2284

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
available at 11 of 12 Southern Nevada locations (only the shop inside the Rio doesn't have it)

Clark County Libraries
available at all urban branches

East Boy Japanese Café
4755 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 798-1777

Double Tree Club Hotel
7250 Pollock Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 948-4000

Elysium Internet Cafe
7875 W. Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89117

Fairfield Inn
3850 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89169
(702) 791-0899

Fairfield Inn & Suites
5775 Dean Martin Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89169
(702) 895-9810

Freakin' Frog
4700 South Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 597-9702

Gelato Cafe
120 S. Green Valley Pkwy suite 174, Henderson, NV 89012
7240 W. Azure Suite 150, Las Vegas, NV 89130
8550 W. Desert Inn Rd. suite 103A, Las Vegas, NV 89117

Henderson Executive Airport
1400 Executive Airport Drive, Suite B, Henderson, NV 89052
(702) 261-4800

Henderson Libraries (3 locations)
280 S. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson, NV 89012
280 S. Water St., Henderson, NV 89015
2960 Sunridge Heights Parkway, Henderson, NV 89052

House Blend
790 Coronado Center Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89052
(702) 644-2008

It's A Grind Coffee House (3 locations)
8470 Desert Inn Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89117
8899 Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123
2591 Anthem Village Dr, Henderson, NV 89052

Jimmy's Cafe
8427 W. Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89128
(702) 869-3663

Krispy Crème Doughnut Stores (4 locations)
1331 W. Craig Road, Las Vegas, NV 89032
9791 S. Eastern Avenue, Henderson, NV 89183
7015 Spring Mountain Road, Las Vegas, NV 89117

Las Vegas Hilton
3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 732-5111

Marriot Grand Chateau
75 East Harmon Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 862-5600

Main Street Station
200 N. Main St., Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 387-1896

McCarran International Airport (all terminals)
5757 Wayne Newton Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 261-5211

McDonald's Restaurant
4855 Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89119

McDonald's Restaurant
601 N Stephanie
Henderson, NV 89014

Monorail Station at LV Convention Center
3300 Paradise Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89169

Mr. D's Sports Bar
1810 S Rainbow Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89146
(702) 362-8777

North Las Vegas Airport
2730 Airport Drive, North Las Vegas, NV 89032
(702) 261-3800

Panera Bread
5130 South Fort Apache, Las Vegas, NV 89148
9911 Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89183
605 Mall Ring Circle Suite #140, Henderson, NV 89014

Pier 49
1381 West Sunset Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89014
(702) 458-0880

reJavaNate Coffee Lounge
3300 E Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121
(702) 253-7721

Shooters Bar & Grill
4465 E Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89104
(702) 933-0775

Wynn Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
3131 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 770-7000

Free WiFi Hotspots in Hawaii

2008-03-13T08:30:00.001-04:00

Here is a list of free wi-fi hotspot locations in Hawaii to make it easy for you to access the web while on your Hawaii vacation. This list is provided by wififreespot.com.

BIG ISLAND

Hilo
Lola'a Cafe - Hilo Lagoon Building
CD Wizard Internet Cafe - 23C Pohaku Strret - 808-969-4800
Imiloa Astronomy Center - 600 Imiloa Place - 808-969-9700

Kona Coast
Kona Coast Shopping Center - Center food court - Palani Rd. and Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. - 326-2262

Kailua Kona
Kona Brewing Company - 75-5629 Kuakini Highway
Island Lava Java and the Sunset Grill - 75-5799 Alii Dr., Suite A-1
Koa Wood Hale Inn - Pateys Place - 75-184 Ala Onaona St - 808.329.9663

Kamuela
Waimea Coffee Co. - 65-1279 Kawaihae Road, #114 - 808.885.2100

Waikoloa
Bay Club Bar and Grill at Waikoloa Beach Resort - 69-450 Waikoloa Beach Drive - (808) 886-1515

MAUI
Hawaiian Village Coffee in Kahana and Kaanapali
Queen Kaahumanu Shopping Center Coffee Shop ( near T-Mobile) - Kauilui
Cafe Cafe - Dolphin Plaza - 2395 South Kihei Rd - (808) 879-4700 - Kihei
CJ's Deli & Diner - 2580 KEKA'A Dr, Suite 120 - (808) 667-0968 - Lahaina
Penny's Place Bed & Breakfast - 1440 Front St. - 808-661-1068 - Lahaina
Best Western Pioneer Inn - 658 Wharf Street - (808) 661-3636 - Lahaina
Pateys Place - 761 Wainee Street - 808.667.0999 - Lahaina
Mahina Surf #102 Condominium Resort Rental - 4057 L Honoapiilani Road - Lahaina

MOLOKAI
Paniolo Hale rental condo complex - main office area and lanai

OAHU

Aiea
Calvary Cafe - 98-1016 Komo Mai Drive - 808-524-0844

Haleiwa
Coffee Gallery - Kamehameha Hwy
Sharks Cove Grill - 59-712 Kamehameha Hwy - 808-638-8300

Hawaii Kai
Kona Brewing Company's Koko Marina Pub - in the Koko Marina Center at the intersection of Kalanianaole Highway and Lunalilo Home Road

Honolulu
Apple Store - Ala Moana Shopping Ctr., 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. STE 2243
Aqua Aloha Surf and Spa - pool/lobby area - 444 Kanekapolei St - 808-923-0222
Aqua Waikiki Wave - entire hotel - 2299 Kuhio Ave - 808-922-1262
Bubbies Homemade Ice Cream and Desserts - Koko Marina Center - 7192 Kalanianaole Hwy - D103 - 808.396.8722
Cafe2600 - 2600 South King Street - 808-946-2400
Chiko's Tavern - 930 McCully St. - (808)949-5440
Coffee Talk - 3601 Waialae Ave - (808) 737-7444
Common Groundz Cafe on the waterfront - 377 Keahole St - 394-9777 - Hawaii Kai
CompUSA - 604 Ala Moana Blvd - (808) 537-1355
Cove Bar in the Makai Market - Ala Moana Shopping Center
Glazer's Coffee - 2700 South King St
Euro Market Cafe - requires purchase - 2310 Kuhio Ave - (808) 922-3876
Hawaii Yacht Club - members and their guests and reciprocal privilege guests - 1739 C Ala Moana Blvd. - (808) 944-9666
Honolulu Coffee Co.'s Bishop Store Cafe - 1001 Bishop Street - (808) 521-4400
Kahala Mall - Center Court & near the Information Booth - 4211 Waialae Avenue
Kokua Wireless - 733 Bishop St - 808-848-8888
Panini Grill - Kahala Mall Shopping Center - 4211 Waialae Avenue
Pioneer Plaza Lobby - 900 Fort St
Tapioca Express - 1726 Kapiolani Blvd., 101 B - (808) 944-1077
The MacMouse Club - 627 South Street - 808-921-8294
University of Hawaii Manoa - Business Administration Bldg
Volcano Joe's Island Bistro - 1810 University Ave - 808-941-8449
Volcano Joe's Coffee House - 1810 University Ave - 808-941-8449
YMCA Central Branch - lobby area - 401 Atkinson

Waikiki Area
Wireless Waikiki Project locations
Aqua Bamboo & Spa - pool/lobby area - 2425 Kuhio Ave - 808-922-7777
Aqua Coconut Plaza - lobby area - 450 Lwers St - 808-923-8828
Aqua Continental - entire hotal - 2426 Kuhio Ave - 808-922-2232
Aqua Island Colony - lobby area - 445 Seaside Ave - 808-923-2345
Aqua Palms and Spa - entire hotal -1850 Ala Moana Blvd - 808-947-7256
Aston Sunset Waikiki Hotel - 229 Paoakalani Avenue - pool side and 6th floor Data Center - (808) 922-0511
Coconut Cafe - 2441 Kuhio Ave - (808) 922-8700
Equus Hotel - entire hotel - 1696 Ala Moana Blvd - 808-949-0061
Euro Cafe - 2310 Kuhio Ave
Halekulani Hotel - 2199 Kalia Rd - 808-923-8004
Honolulu Prince Hotel - lobby only - 415 Nahua St - 808-922-1616
Hula's Bar and Lei Stand - 134 Kapahulu Ave./2nd Floor Waikiki Grand Hotel - 808-923-0669
Ocean Tower Hotel - entire hotel - 129 Paokalani Ave - 808-687-7700
Ono Cheesesteak - 2310 Kuhio Ave.
Tapa Bar - Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort - 2005 Kalia Road - (808) 949-4321

Kailua
Morning Brew - 600 Kailua Rd, #119 - (808) 262-7770

Waipahu
Seattle's Best Coffee - 94-1235 Ka Uka Blvd - 808-676-8330

KAHUKU
Turtle Bay Resort - 57-091 Kamehameha Highway - 808.293.6000
Turtle Bay Vacation Rentals - 57-091 Lalo Kuilima - 808-293-7520

KAUAI
AlohaFreeWiFi - 5-5131 Kuhio Hwy - 808-826-1190 - Hanalei
Camp House Grill - Kaumualii Hwy - 856 854 6637 - Kalaheo
Tradewinds - Coconut Marketplace, 484 Kuhio Hwy - 808-822-1621 - Kapa'a
Small Town Coffee - 4-1495 Kuhio Hwy - 808-821-1630 - Kapa'a
Aloha Beach Resort (Kuhio Lounge) - 3-5920 Kuhio Hwy., Kapa`a
Kukui Grove Center - 3-2600 Kaumualii Hwy - 808-245-7784 - Lihue
Waimea Brewing Co. - 9400 Kaumualii Highway - (808) 338-9733 - Waimea
Grinds Cafe - 4469 Waialo Road, Eleele
Waimea Plantation Cottages - 9400 Kaumualii Hwy - Waimea
Courtyard Marriott Kuai - 4-484 Kuhio Hwy - Kapaa

How To Get Free "Late Show with David Letterman" Tickets

2008-02-16T23:40:00.003-05:00

If you are visiting New York City and are interested in getting free tickets to see David Letterman, you can request tickets in person for shows up to one month in advance or you can try your luck at getting stand-by tickets starting at 11:00 a.m. on the day of the show you would like to attend.

What: Free tickets to see "Late Show with David Letterman"

Where: Ed Sullivan Theater, New York City

When: You can request tickets in person for shows up to one month in advance at the Ed Sullivan Theatre at 1697 Broadway (between 53rd & 54th Streets). Ticket requests will be accepted Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Do not line up for tickets before 9 a.m. To request standby tickets, call (212) 247-6497 starting at 11:00 a.m. on the day of the show you would like to attend.

How:
Getting "Late Show with David Letterman" Tickets In-Person: You can request tickets in person for shows up to one month in advance at the Ed Sullivan Theatre at 1697 Broadway (between 53rd & 54th Streets). Ticket requests will be accepted Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Do not line up for tickets before 9 a.m.

Getting Stand-by "Late Show with David Letterman" Tickets: Call (212) 247-6497 starting at 11:00 a.m. on the day of the show you would like to attend. You will be asked to answer a David Letterman trivia question, and if you answer it correctly, you'll be asked to arrive at the theater approximately an hour before taping. Stand-by tickets do not guarantee admission to the show.

What to Know About Late Show with David Letterman Tickets:

Late Show with David Letterman tapes at the Ed Sullivan Theatre 1697 Broadway (53rd/54th Sts).
Late Show with David Letterman doesn't offer tickets by mail or for groups.
You must be at least 18 to be in the audience.
Bring photo ID for security clearance.
You are eligible to attend the Late Show with David Letterman only once every six months.
Bring a sweater or jacket if you're attending a Late Show with David Letterman Taping -- they keep the studios pumped full of refrigerated air.

Check out Entertainment Bargain Hunter Hotline to get information on discount New York theater tickets, sightseeing and more. check out Free or Less: Free Things to Do on Vacation to find other free things to do while vacationing in New York.

New York Sightseeing Bargain: Free Staten Island Ferry

2008-02-16T11:30:00.002-05:00

If you will be vacationing in New York City on a budget, don't miss one of the best NY sightseeing bargains. The Staten Island Ferry is now FREE. The ferry is an attraction fit for young and old, New York first-timers and those who have lived there for years and you can't beat the price!

What: Free New York ferry ride on the Staten Island Ferry

Where: Manhattan: Whitehall and Water St., New York, NY 10006
Staten Island: 1 Bay St., Staten Island, NY 10301

When: The ferry operates 24 hours a day every day of the week. Through most of the day (the only exception being the hours of midnight to 6am), you will not have to wait more than half an hour for the next departure, and it will be more frequent-and crowded-during weekday rush hours. Weekdays and weekends, boats leave and arrive on the half hour. Each leg of the ferry takes half an hour.

How: You can take the subway to Staten Island Ferry: In Manhattan, J or Z to Broad Street; 1 or 9 to South Ferry; 4 or 5 to Bowling Green. In Staten Island, Staten Island Railway to St. George. The Staten Island Ferry Cross Streets in Manhattan are Whitehall and Water Streets, at the water's edge. The ferry, which runs frequently enough that if you just show up, one is probably not far off, offers a wonderful view of the harbor and all it has to offer. Among the sights to take in from either side of the vessel, are Governor's Island, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, lower Manhattan and Wall Street's skyscrapers, Ellis Island, and the Verrazano Narrows Bridge connecting Staten Island to Brooklyn.

Check out Entertainment Bargain Hunter Hotline for information on discounts on New York theater tickets, etc.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Venice, Italy

2008-01-26T22:58:00.000-05:00

Here is a list of free things to do on vacation in Venice.

Free Internet
You will probably be much too busy enjoying the amazing sights in Venice, but you might want to email your family back home, check your stocks or even just take a break and visit your favorite comedy website. You can get a free half hour of internet use per day at the Telecom Italia Future Centre.

The following information about free things to do in Venice is excerpted from Italy Heaven

Venice Itself
Its canals, bridges, architecture, lagoon and lanes, can be explored and admired totally free. Put on some sturdy walking shoes and enjoy the view.

Churches
St. Mark's Basilica, the greatest of Venice's churches, is free to enter (expect queues, don't try to enter with a rucksack or indecent clothing). The terrace, museum and chapels have entrance fees.
Santa Maria della Salute - the main part of the church is free, as are occasional organ vespers.
San Vidal - this church, by the Accademia Bridge, is used for evening concerts. In the daytime you can enter free.
I Carmini - the Church of Santa Maria del Carmelo contains paintings by Lorenzo Lotto and Cima da Conegliano.

Concerts and Events
Free events in Venice are not always well-publicized, but keep an eye on posters around town. Touring foreign choirs will often give free concerts in Venice's churches, there are local church festivals for saints' days, and occasionally you'll just stumble across free live music in a piazza or bar. During heritage week in May there are free events organised in museums, and by scrutinising the 'what's on' leaflet from the tourist office you might find more cultural initiatives that don't cost anything. Big festivals and rowing events can be watched without charge, and during the Carnival there are lots of free entertainments in St. Mark's Square, as well as lots of costumes to admire. Check the list below to see if there is a festival or rowing event during the time of your visit.

Carnival (Carnevale) - This is the big one, Venice's greatest tourist event. St. Mark's Square fills with glamorous, sinister figures in mask and costumes. There are masked balls and public parades and crowds of visitors from all around the world. The Carnival takes place in February, during the ten days leading up to Shrove Tuesday. More about the Carnival.

La Sensa - The Festa della Sensa celebrates the relationship between Venice and the sea. It involves a procession of boats traditionally led by the doge (nowadays the mayor) who throws a ring (nowadays a wreath) into the waves to symbolise a marriage between Venice and the sea (or Venice's dominion over the sea, depending on interpretation). The event follows Ascension Day, and in 2007 took place on 20th May.

The Vogalonga - This is a huge and cheerful rowing event which takes place on a Sunday in May or June (in 2007 the date was 27th May). Thousands of participants row around a 30km course, reclaiming the lagoon from motorised boats. More about the Vogalonga.

The Biennale - The Biennale started as an art show every two years, and has grown to become an umbrella organisation covering a large range of events, including the Venice Film Festival. The main art exhibition takes place in odd-numbered years, and in even-numbered years is replaced by an architecture show. In 2007 the event runs from 10th June to 21st November. More about the Biennale.

Festa del Redentore - Every year Venice gives thanks for its relief from a severe outbreak of plague in the late sixteenth century. A temporary bridge of boats crosses the Giudecca Canal to the Church of the Redentore. The religious celebrations are held on the third Sunday of July. The night before (Saturday) is a great party with feasting followed by night-time fireworks and the weekend finishes with a gondola regatta. The dates in 2007 were the 14th and 15th July 2007. More about the Festa del Redentore.

The Seaside
In Italy you are usually expected to pay to go to the seaside. Beaches are lined with establishments where you must pay to rent a sunbed alongside hundred of others sunbathers. However, there is a stretch of 'free beach' (spiaggia libera) in easy reach on the Lido, straight over the island from the vaporetto stop. Take something to lie on, as the gritty surface isn't particularly clean.

Free Things to Do on Vacation Photo of the Day - New Zealand Whale

2008-01-25T14:47:00.002-05:00

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.
Check out Free Things to Do on South Island, New Zealand

Free Things to Do on Vacation Photo of the Day - Maui Sunset

2008-01-18T06:36:00.001-05:00

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.
Check out Free Things to Do on Maui

Free Things to Do on Vacation Photo of the Day - Sealed With a Hug, South Island, New Zealand

2008-01-15T14:49:00.000-05:00

Check out Free Things to Do on Vacation on South Island, New Zealand.

Free Things to Do on Vacation On Maui, Hawaii

2008-01-11T12:10:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation on Maui. The following information is excerpted from
mauihi.com

Beaches - All 81 Maui beaches are free and open to the public, many have showers, restrooms

Swim with the turtles at Maluaka Bay

Swimming Pools - open to public at Wailuku War Memorial, Kihei, Lahaina, Pukalani

Surf Watch - any shore

Watch the 400 humpback Whales that winter in Maui from beach, car or lanai

Watch Expert Windsurfers - Hookipa Park

Playgrounds - Kihei's Kamaole and Kalama Parks have free swings, slides, and jungle gyms.

Play Tennis - public courts in Wailuku, Kahului, Kihei, Lahaina, Makawao, Pukalani, Haliimaile, Hana

Go Hiking - Haleakala, West Maui Mountains, over fifty trails

Watch a Sunset - any evening, anywhere

Stargaze - the night sky is full of more stars than you can imagine.

Watch a Moonset - 1-3 days before a full moon, at 1-3 hours before sunrise.

Take a Shuttle Bus (some free and others cost $1)
# Whalers Village - Kahana - Napili
# Ka'anapali Resort Trolley
# Wailea

Central

Wonder at the Iao Needle

Visit Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens, Iao Valley - picnic and paddle in the stream

Tour the Hawaii Nature Center - great exhibits for kids

Behold Daytime Hula Shows once or twice per week. Call for days and times: Kaahumanu Center 877-3369

Don't miss the Paper Airplane Museum & Tin Can Man in Maui Mall - Store and museum with collection of paper airplanes, planes and vehicles made out of pop cans.

Drive around the Kahakolua side of the island - see old Maui, taro paddies

Lahaina

Learn about whales at Hale Kohola Humpback Whale Museum & Whalers Village Museum, Whalers Village Shopping Center

Check out the Lahaina Whaling Museum behind the Crazy Shirt store at 865 Front Street, Lahaina. Look through free giant binoculars in back of the store.

Browse through 18 Art Galleries - Get map of galleries at Visitor Center in Courthouse behind Banyan Tree

Friday Night is Art Night on Front Street, Lahaina Lahaina Arts Society, Lahaina. Get map of galleries at Visitor Center in Courthouse behind Banyan Tree

Walk around the Banyan tree in Lahaina

See Hawaiian Petroglyphs - ancient rock carvings about 1 mile back of Olowalu General Store, ask directions in store.

Daytime Hula Shows once or twice per week. Call for days and times:

* Whalers Village 661-4567
* Lahaina Center 667-9216
* Wharf Cinema Center 661-8748
* Lahaina Cannery 661-5304

Upcountry

Visit a Cowboy Town - Makawao

Look into the Viewpoints Gallery - local artists collaborative, fine paintings & sculpture

Watch the Glass Blowers at Hot Island Glass - spectacular art glass pieces

Stop by Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center, near Makawao - fine arts exhibits, classes, shop

Go to Haleakala National Park - see the Crater, silversword, Science City

See exotic blooms at Sunrise Protea Farm

Taste Hawaiian wine at Tedeschi Vineyards, Ulupalakua

Kihei

Stroll the path at Kealia Pond Wildlife Refuge

Visit Hana Ka Lima Arts & Crafts exhibition, Outrigger Wailea, Friday (808) 874-7822

Walk the shoreline nature path between the Outrigger Wailea and the Kea Lani

Tour the Art & Sculpture at the Grand Wailea Resort

Ogle Daytime Hula Shows once or twice per week. Call for days and times:

Wailea Shopping Village 879-4465

Hana

Drive the Road To Hana - tropical jungle, waterfalls

Swim under a Waterfall - Twin Falls, Oheo Gulch

See Tropical Plants at the Keanae Arboretum

Visit the mysterious caves at Waianapanapa Park

Tour the Hana Cultural Center

Visit Charles Lindbergh's Grave

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Los Angeles

2008-01-11T07:17:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Los Angeles. The following is excerpted from http://www.frommers.com

See a Live TV Show
Watch One of Your Favorite TV Sitcoms Being Taped (Go to tvtix.com or tvtickets.com to get free tickets.)

Getty Center
Go to the Getty Center: one of L.A.'s best attractions is absolutely free

Mulholland Drive
Cruise Mulholland Drive: Cruise past the homes with million-dollar views, and then pull over at the public viewing pullouts to see the city.

Museums
Take Advantage of Free Admission Days to L.A.'s Museums: Almost all of L.A.'s art galleries and museums are open free to the public 1 day of the week or month (or both), and several never charge admission.

Jazz Performance
Take in an Evening Jazz Performance: L.A.'s two major art museums offer free jazz concerts every Thursday and Friday evening.

Hollywood Bowl Rehearsal
See a Hollywood Bowl Rehearsal: Few people know about the Bowl's morning rehearsals, which are open to the public and absolutely free.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Paris

2008-01-11T07:08:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Paris. The following information is excerpted from http://www.parislogue.com

Churches
Most churches in Paris are free, except Sainte Chapelle which is not an operating church. The majority of churches in France are open to the public during daylight hours. Certain churches will charge admission to certain parts of the building which either have relics or allow access to the bell tower (i.e. Notre Dame Tower is accessed by the outside steps to the left of the building).

Free Museums

Musee Carnavalet
23 rue de Sevigne
Le Marais District
Metro: St. Paul
Closed Mondays.

If you want to learn about the history of the City of Paris, this is a great place to begin. The permanent exhibit is free.

Musee Cognacq Jay
8 rue Elzevir
Marais District
Metro: St. Paul
Closed Mondays

Ernest Cognacq was the founder of the department store La Samaritaine. This private townhouse built in th e rococo style houses paintings and furniture from the 18th century. Like the Marmottan and Musee Jacquemart Andre, unlike the vast grandeur of Chateau Versailles, these elegant private ‘hotels particuliers’ have managed to retain a sense of intimacy - as if the former owner might be hovering in an alcove.

A number of museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month, during the Journee du Patrimoine, or Heritage Day (usually in late September or early November) and White Night, Nuit Blanche, in early October.

Free Louvre
With a little advanced planning, you can visit the Louvre Museum for free.
The Louvre offers FREE admission to all visitors on the first Sunday of each month, July 14th (Bastille Day), and free admission is offered to art students studying in France if you have the right documentation. Check their site regarding free admission for art, art history, or applied arts teachers with right documentation. The Louvre offers FREE admission to children and teenagers under 18 years. Friday nights are FREE if you are under 26 years. The Louvre offers FREE admission to disabled people and their attendants. See the Louvre for Free details on the official Louvre site.

Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in many of Paris’s parks and libraries.

Summer Concerts
Free summer concerts at the Luxembourg Gardens (and many other gardens).

Ice Skating
Free Ice Skating during part of the winter (Skate Rentals cost 5 Euros, but are free for kids with small feet).
Hotel de Ville 4th
Metro: Hotel de Ville

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation on South Island, New Zealand

2008-01-08T14:12:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation on South Island, New Zealand. This information is excerpted from New Zealand's Information Network

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.

Blenheim

Wine Trail
Pick up a Wine Trail Guide and tour the famous trail by coach, car or cycle
Enjoy free samplings of world-class character wines and perhaps dine amongst the vines.

Follow the Blenheim Arts and Crafts Trail
See factory shops and charming country galleries for paua (abalone), greenstone (jade), native woods, artwork, pottery, sculptures and handcrafts.

Beavertown
Stroll through the authentic colonial streets of Beavertown
This replica of early Blenheim brings its history to life.

Go bushwalking on the Northbank trails
The Richmond Forest Park has numerous signposted trails above the Wairau Valley.

Molesworth Station
Spend a day on Molesworth Station (New Zealand’s largest sheep station)
See towering peaks, barren scree slopes, vast grassy flats and native wildlife.

Cloudy Bay Coastal Route
Drive the scenic Cloudy Bay Coastal Route
This 2 hour loop road offers great seascapes and picnic opportunities.

Picton
Drive to Picton - the gateway to the South Island
Tramp part of the Queen Charlotte Walkway. Another option is the Nydia Track from Havelock (the home of green-lipped mussels).

Christchurch

Hagley Park
Get acquainted with Christchurch by strolling through Hagley Park’s leafy glades
Admire the stately old English trees, colourful themed flower beds in the Botanic Gardens and the tranquillity of the meandering Avon River (spanned by 30 bridges).

Banks Peninsula
Explore the bays and peninsulas of Banks Peninsula
Take to the coastal walking tracks and see the diverse marine life - seals, penguins and Hector’s dolphins (the world’s smallest and rarest species).

Mt Cook
Drive to Mt Cook for stunning views of the Southern Alps
Check the Visitor Centre for details of superb walks up glacial valleys and the lower slopes. Excursions by 4WD, Kayak, ski plane and helicopter are also available.

Greymouth

The town’s central location makes it an ideal base for excursions to Punakaiki, Westport and Karamea in the north and Hokitika, The Glaciers and Haast in the south. Five of New Zealand’s National Parks and a World Heritage Area are found here amongst the Coast’s towering peaks, lush rainforests, raging rivers, grinding glaciers and brooding lakes.

Beachcombing
Semi-precious gemstones and weirdly-shaped driftwood is washed up on the stony beaches.

Look for dolphins
Hector’s dolphins often swim off the Grey River mouth.

Stretch your legs on the easily accessible local walkways
The Point Elizabeth, Coal Creek and other local walks offer great bush and sea views.

Drive out to the tranquillity of Lake Brunner
Relax in this pristine area and enjoy some quiet fishing, boating, yachting or canoeing.

Drive to the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowhole
Marvel at these weird rock stacks and then visit the wonderful limestone cave formations at the Pororari River.

Drive on to Westport for more adventures
Visit the seals at Cape Foulwind, tramp the Charming Creek Walkway, try gold panning or sea and river fishing.

Drive south to the peaceful gold town of Hokitika
This onetime goldfield’s capital had 3500 rowdy miners and 102 hotels. See artisans working the ‘new gold’ - greenstone (jade).

Take a night walk in Hokitika to see the glow-worms
On the edge of town is a charming dell with a natural archway of trees. Millions of sparkling lights make an unforgettable sight.

Continue south to the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers
Road access takes you close to the terminal face of both glaciers and guided walks on the ice are available.

Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier

Rise early at Fox Glacier to view Mt Cook and Mt Tasman
Drive a short distance along the coast road for stunning views of the cloud-piercing peaks.

Visit Lake Matheson just 5 km from Fox, on a clear morning
View a picture-perfect postcard scene with the peaks reflected in the satin smooth lake surface.

Take a short walk to the Fox Glacier terminal face over the riverbed
Listen to the creaking and cracking as the giant river of ice releases glacial torrents into the rushing river.

Call in to the Fox Glacier Visitor Centre for an update on other local tracks
Easy to moderate tramping tracks are the Minnehaha Walk, Moraine Walk, River Walk, Valley Walk, Chalet Lookout Walk and the Glow-worm Grotto.

Drive out to Gillespie’s Beach on the storm-lashed coast
Experience the remoteness of a wilderness surf beach with snow-capped peaks as a backdrop. The seal colony is a 3 hour return walk along the foreshore.

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier and visit the terminal icefall
The riverbed walk is longer than Fox (around 2 km from Sentinel Rock lookout).

Call into the Franz Josef Visitor Centre
Pick up a leaflet on local self-guided walks such as Douglas Walk, Lake Wombat Walk, Callery-Waiho Walk and longer tramps to Robert’s Point and Alex Knob.

Visit the salmon farm at Paringa
View quinnat salmon in their rearing ponds, feed them and then treat yourself to some sweet delicacies.

Visit Whataroa and take a white heron tour
Paddle a kayak on the Okarito Lagoon and view these majestic birds in their natural habitat (nesting period is November-February).

Drive down to the Haast World Heritage Area Visitor Centre
Examine the excellent displays and take a local walk through wetlands, rainforest and coastal lagoons.

Te Anau

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford and Doubtful Sounds. The famous tramping tracks of the Milford, Hollyford, Routeburn, Greenstone, Caples, Kepler, Dusky and Dart-Rees can all be accessed from Te Anau.

Walk along the lakefront esplanade to Blue Gum Point
Enjoy the stillness and serenity of the South Island’s largest lake and the primeval ambience of the Murchison Mountains (home of the rare takahe bird).

Walk around the lakeshore to the Wildlife Park
View endangered native birds and continue on to the Lake Outlet and Dock Bay, a popular picnic and swimming spot.

Consider an all day walk on the nearby Kepler Track
Drive to Rainbow Reach on the Lower Waiau River and walk 3 hours through pure pristine wilderness back to the lakeshore.

Drive down to Lake Manapouri for a walk
Walk options are Stockyard Cove and The Monument and the more challenging Cone Peak.

Drive up the Eglinton Valley
Marvel at the unspoiled wilderness and walk to viewpoints like Key Summit, Lake Marion and the Gertrude Saddle.

Continue on to Milford Sound through the Homer Tunnel
This is New Zealand’s most spectacular wilderness drive.

On the return from Milford take a side trip down the Hollyford Valley
Tramp in to Hidden Falls Hut for an overnight stay or return to Hollyford Camp.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Taupo, New Zealand

2008-01-07T17:07:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Taupo, New Zealand. This information is excerpted from http://www.laketauponz.com.

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.

Things to do around Lake Taupo...

Aratiatia Rapids
A huge hydro electric power station and dam. Gates open and water is released daily. Sign posted off SH5 approx 10km north of Lake Taupo. Summer: 10am, 12noon, 2pm, 4pm. Winter: 10am, 12noon, 2pm.

Arts and Crafts
Several galleries are open for viewing. Pick up an Art and Crafts brochure from either the Taupo or Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre.

Botanical Reserve

An 85 acre reserve containing alpine and native plants, azaleas and rhododendrons. Gates are open daily until dusk. Situated at the top of Shepherd Road, Lake Taupo.

Childrens Play Areas
The Lake Taupo region has a number of excellent childrens play areas. Visit the Taupo and Turangi i-SITE Visitor centre for details.

Cycling
Great cycling trails for all levels. Pick up a cycling brochure from either the Taupo or Turangi i-SITE Visitor centre.

Honey Hive
See bees in glass hives, sample honey products and watch educational videos. Honey products for sale. Open daily 9am-5pm. Situated off SH1 north in Wairakei Tourist Park, Lake Taupo.

Huka Falls
The major waterfall on the Waikato River. NZ's most visited natural attractions. Famous for the volume of water (62,000 gallons per second) that hurtles through its narrow chasm. Situated off SH1 north in Wairakei Tourist Park, Lake Taupo.

Lookouts
There are a number of vantage points for sight seeing over Lake Taupo, Turangi and the surrounding areas. One lookout in particular is the Taupo Bungy platform where you can see people testing their nerves over the Waikato River . There are many more lookouts, just contact either the Taupo or Turangi i-SITE Visitor centre.

Native Plant Nursery
This Nursery specializes in the propagation of native plants and is one of the largest of its kind in the country. Open daily. Cenntennial Drive, Lake Taupo.

NZ Fruit Wines
The largest selection of fruit wines and fruit liqueurs in NZ. Free daily tastings. Located in the Honey Hive building. Huka Falls Loop Road, Wairakei Tourist Park, Lake Taupo.

Opepe Reserve
This historic reserve was the scene of a massacre of 9 soldiers from the Bay of Plenty Cavalry by Te Kooti's men in 1869. A short walk on the left of SH5 leads to the graves. The track on the right leads to the site of the old Opepe settlement to the Armed Constabulary Posts watering trough and to an old saw pit. Located 17km from Lake Taupo on SH5 Napier/Taupo Road.

Rose Gardens
Over 500 rose bushes grow here. The gardens are adjacent to the Museum in Story Place, Lake Taupo.

Scented Gardens
Raised garden filled with scented shrubs and herbs for the enjoyment of the visually impaired. Tongariro North Domain, Lake Taupo.

Spa Road Walk
Walk alongside the glorious Waikato River, NZ's longest river. Enjoy the fresh air and surrounding bush. Stop off at Huka Falls, grab a drink and a snack at the kiosk then head back. Starts off at Spa Road, Lake Taupo.

Tokaanu Historic Wharf
Dates from the early 1800s and is one of the oldest structures of it kind in NZ. It is now undergoing restoration and currently you can walk two thirds of its length. A popular picnic and fishing spot.

Tokaanu Thermal Walk
Located adjacent to the Tokaanu Thermal Pools - free thermal bush walk, 15-20 minutes of bubbling mud and silica springs (wheelchair accessible).

Tongariro River Loop Walk
One hour walk alongside the world famous Tongariro River - watch people flyfish and enjoy the views of the Kaimanawa Ranges.

Tongariro National Trout Centre
View wild Taupo Trout in the Waihukahuka Stream through the underwater window, or feed trout in the children's pond. Lots of displays to see includings the hatchery and visitor centre. Lovely bush setting, BBQ and picnic facilities. Open daily 10am-3pm. SH1 just south of Turangi.

Trout Fishing
Take a picnic and watch anglers flyfish for trout at the Waitahanui Stream. Situated SH1 south at Waitahanui.

Wishart Winery
Lake Taupo first commercial winery. Free wine tasting, wine education centre, wine library, vineyard tours and wine sales. Open 7 days 10am-5pm. Restaurant adjacent. Off SH1 north on Huka Falls Road, Lake Taupo.

For more information about any of these activities please contact:

i-SITE logo Taupo i-SITE Visitor Centre - +64 7 376 0027
Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre - +64 7 386 8999

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Scandinavia

2008-01-07T15:05:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://goscandinavia.about.com

Free Natural Phenomena Experience
The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
Scandinavia offers the most amazing natural phenomena, especially in the region of the Arctic circle, in northern Scandinavia. Enjoy this free show of three Scandinavian natural phenomena: the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), the Midnight Sun or even the phenomena of the Polar Nights...free experiences that will last a lifetime.

Free Annual Events & Festivals
Outdoor festival/event in Copenhagen, Denmark
Scandinavia hosts more annual events and festivals than most other regions in the world. Numerous events are free, like the Kivik Apple Market Festival in Sweden, where you get lots of fun and activities for free admission.

Free Visit to the North Cape
The North Cape (Norway) is northern Scandinavia's most popular travel destination. It is a free, unforgettable experience offering visitors breathtaking views, unusual climatic conditions, the dramatic cliff itself - and the fact that one is standing at Europe's northern end.

CityBike
CityBike is very popular in Copenhagen and offers a free, eco-friendly transportation service: free bicycle rentals! CityBikes is a free alternative transportation service available to everyone. Denmark's capital has over 1,300 CityBikes which are parked in over 110 bicycle stations downtown.

Free Admission in Slottsskogen, Gothenburg
Gothenburg in Sweden (Goteborg)
Slottsskogen is a park which offers the Natural History Museum, a children's zoo, as well as a family animal park. Don't miss the feeding of the seals at 2 pm! The park is also home to the city's oldest observatory.

Free Trondheim Walking Tour
Domkirke in Trondheim, Norway
A self-paced, relaxed walking tour through the historic town of Trondheim in Norway leads budget travelers to several sights and historic buildings that every traveler should see on their Norway vacation.

Free Stockholm Walking Tour
Djurgården Bridge
Stockholm's Djurgården is an island right in the middle of Stockholm, known for its beautiful parks, free sights, popular events, and tourist attractions. This is a great tour of Stockholm's interesting parts, lasting approx. 2 - 2 1/2 hours.

Follow the Stockholm-Djurgarden Walking Tour
Free Wildlife Experience
Reindeer in Norway
Scandinavia is still very much a natural habitat for many species of wildlife and preservation laws are strict. All the better for travelers interested in seeing some wildlife in their natural habitats in Scandinavia! Leave the big city and head for rural areas and start watching - you will see some very unique animals.

CityBikes in Norway
CityBike is available in 4 different Norwegian cities: Norway's capital Oslo, in Trondheim, in Bergen and in Drammen. The Norwegian CityBike service is free in most cities, and low budget-priced in others.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Western Australia's Golden Outback

2008-01-07T15:00:00.001-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.westernaustralia.com

On a budget? There is plenty to see and do while in Australia's Golden Outback that won't even cost you a cent!

Wave Rock, Hyden
Head to Hyden and marvel at a 14 metre high solid rock wave made 2,700 million years ago. Set in vibrant outback scenery, its spectacular colours change dramatically throughout the day. Visit http://www.waverock.com.au for more information

Twilight Bay
Unimaginably white sand, smooth granite cliffs and aquamarine water create the beauty that made Twilight Bay famous. It's Esperance's top spot for swimming and fishing.
Address: Twilight Beach Road, Esperance, 6450
Phone: +61 8 9071 2330

Kokerbin Rock/Bruce Rock
Bruce Rock, an incredible granite rock formation just two kilometres from town, is an icon of the wheatbelt. Just 40 kilometres west stands towering Kokerbin Rock boasting spectacular views.
Address: Bruce Rock - York Road, Bruce Rock, 6418
Phone: +61 8 9061 1377

Kalgoorlie Walk Trail
Immerse yourself in Kalgoorlie's romantic gold mining history on a fascinating walk trail that explores over 40 historic buildings and old miner's pubs, many virtually unchanged from the heady gold rush days.

Mount Augustus National Park
Explore the world's largest monad rock - Mount Augustus. This eight kilometre beast is twice the size of Uluru and rises out of a vibrant red sandplain.

Kennedy Range National Park
The Kennedy Range National Park lies roughly 150 kilometres east of Carnarvon and is surrounded by pastoral leases. The park offers spectacular scenery of gorges and precipitous faces, with a vast plateau of ancient dunefields on top of the range. The area still retains a wilderness feeling, and camping beneath the stark sandstone cliffs is an experience not to be missed.

The National Park is semi developed attracting the more adventurous visitor seeking a wilderness-style experience. However being within an hours drive of Gascoyne Junction, it is also attracting those who want to sample the outback experience, but still feel a little unsure of leaving 'civilization'.
Address: Gascoyne Junction Road, Carnarvon, 6701
Phone: +61 8 9941 1146

Gwalia Ghost Town
Step back in time to the beautifully preserved mining ghost town, Gwalia, in the heart of gold country. Wander through deserted timber cottages left behind when the mine shut in 1963.

Lake Ballard, Menzies
Explore Menzies and be prepared to be blown away by captivating black steel sculpture figures contrasting against the brilliant white of this Goldfields salt lake. Best viewed during a fiery orange sunset.

Telegraph Station Ruins of Eucla and Israelite Bay
Stroll among the ruins of Israelite Bay Telegraph Station, last used in 1917 by early pioneers. Don't miss Eucla's fascinating telegraph station, slowly being covered by shifting sand dunes, with jetty and beautiful beach.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do On Vacation in England

2008-01-06T12:34:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.freeineurope.com

London

The National Gallery of London
The National Gallery, London houses one of the greatest collections of Western European painting in the world. These pictures belong to the public and entrance to see them is free. The National Gallery is located at Trafalgar Square London WC2N 5DN. You can also call them on +44 (0)20 7747 2885.

The National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery was established with the criteria that the Gallery was to be about history, not about art. It is home to thousands of famous portraits of people of significance. There may be some special exhibitions that will require a small admission fee. The Partrait Gallery is located at St Martin’s Place London WC2H 0HE or you can call them for recorded information on +44 (0)20 7312 2463

Tate Britain
Tate Britain is a display of British art ranging from the 16th century to today. Well worth a visit for people interested in the history of Britain. The gallery is located at Millbank London SW1P 4RG you can also phone them on +44 20 7887 8888

Tate Modern
A National art gallery in london housing some magnificant pieces of art. Admission to the gallery is free, but donations from visitors are needed to support the gallery’s work. They are located at Bankside London SE1 9TG You can phone them too on +44 20 7887 8888

The Imperial War Museum
The Imperial War Museum seeks to provide for, and to encourage, the study and understanding of the history of modern war and how it affects our lives. It is located at Lambeth Road London SE1 6HZ and you can telephone them on +44 (0)207 416 5320 / 5321.

Royal Airforce Museum
Royal Airforce Museum London is situated on the historic site of the London Aerodrome and houses over 100 aircraft from around the world. Ot is located at Grahame Park Way London, NW9 5LL and you can telephone them on +44 (0)20 8205 2266.

Museum of London
The Museum of London is a Museum of Londons history, archaeology and contemporary cultures to a wider world. It is located at 150 London Wall London EC2Y 5HN tel: +44 (0)870 444 3852

National Maritime Museum - London
The National Maritime Museum was formally opened to the public by King George VI . It includes the 17th-century Queens House and, from the 1950s, the Royal Observatory. It is located at Greenwich, LONDON SE10 9NF. You can call the Museum on +44 (0)20 8858 4422 or listen to recorded information on +44 (0)20 8312 6565.

Museum of London - London Burning Exhibition
Hear the real stories of how Londoners lived through this tragedy. What was it like to live through the terror of having your home and livelihood destroyed? How did people cope? And why did a fire which claimed less than a dozen lives end up changing London’s cityscape forever?

Be transported back to September 1666, with interactive displays and a wide range of objects, including archaeological finds and 17th century fire-fighting equipment and see the Great Fire through the eyes of those who survived it.

You can visit the London Burning Website. Explore the Great Fire, the most famous disaster in London’s history, and find out how it shaped the city we know today. Based on the Museum of London’s special exhibition, London’s Burning, this micro-site features the objects, themes and people from the displays and tells the story of the Fire in depth.

Changing of the Guards
A truly spectacular Free Tourist Attraction outside Londons Buckingham Palace. The official residence of Her Majesty the Queen of England. It generally takes place every secnd day. You can check for a complete schedule or read more about the history at www.changing-the-guard.com.

Manchester

The Whitworth Art Gallery
The Whitworth Art Gallery which is part of the University of Manchester in northwest England, is home to an impressive range of watercolours, prints, drawings, modern art and sculpture, as well as the largest collections of textiles and wallpapers outside London.

It is located on Oxford Road to the south of Manchester City Centre and to the south of the University of Manchester campus, the Gallery can be reached easily by public transport. There is a frequent bus service along Oxford Road to and from the city centre. The Oxford Road Link runs from Piccadilly Station to Grafton Street, stopping at Nelson Street (Monday to Friday only). You can also call on +44 (0161) 275 7450

The Imperial War Museum North
Imperial War Museum North is about people and their stories, about how lives have been and still are shaped by war and conflict.The award-winning building by international architect Daniel Libeskind is a symbol of our world torn apart by conflict and is situated at The Quays, a waterfront destination 2 miles from Manchester city centre.

It is located at The Quays, Trafford Wharf, Trafford Park, Manchester M17 1TZ you can call them on +44 (0)161 836 4000.

Manchester Art Gallery
There are over 25,000 objects spanning six centuries in this collection. Enjoy the Clore Interactive Gallery, take a funny tour or join in the free family events. The Manchester Art Gallery is located on Mosley Street, Manchester M2 3JL Tel: +44 (0)161 235 8888

The Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester
The Museum’s galleries and collections embody the industrial and scientific achievements that made Manchester a world leader. You can explore these achievements through MoSI’s six themes. Science and Technology, Industry and Inovation, Energy, Transport, People and Communications. The museum is located only minutes from the Manchester city centre on Liverpool Road in Castlefield. You can also phone the museum on +44 (0)161 832 2244.

Birmingham

Spirit of Enterprise
The ‘Spirit of Enterprise’ by Tom Lomax, is a water sculpture outside the extension to the Repertory Theatre in Centenary Square.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
It is located at Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3DH and you can phone them on +44 [0]121 303 283

St Thomas’s Church - Birmingham
Built in 1829 this church once housed 2,000 worshippers. Since it was bombed in the World War II The imposing tower is all that remains. It now stands as a memorial to the people of Birmingham who were lost in the war. The Church is located at Granville Street, Birmingham, United Kingdom and the operators can be contacted on Tel: +44 121 693 6300

TV Shows

TV Recordings.com
TV Recordings.com - Offers free tickets to programs such as Not Going out. This company will let you book and print your tickets online. But get in early because you will miss out.

BBC TV
Get free tickets to shows, tours and live events. Like all the other studios it is imperitive that you book your tickets to avoid dissapointment.

SRO Standing Room Only
Standing Room Only - is a TV audience company. All Tickets are free but bookings are essential so make sure you get in early to see your favorite shows. Bookings are available via the website.

Hat Trick TV Productions
Hat Trick Productions is one of the UK’s most successful
independent production companies, the output being immediately
identified with quality popular programming.

Hat Trick’s reputation has flourished not only in the UK but also
throughout Europe and also in America. Award-winning shows include:

HAVE I GOT NEWS FOR YOU
FATHER TED DROP
THE DEAD DONKEY
ROOM 101
THE KUMARS AT NO. 42
WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY?

Bookings for free shows are essential.

Leeds

The Leeds Waterfront
The Leeds Waterfront used to be one of the most run down neighborhoods of Leeds.It now has a new lease on life due to a major redevelopment. Great Shopping & Dining the waterfront is located between Chester and York Roads Leeds LS1 1UR United Kingdom.

Breary Marsh - Leeds
Breary Marsh has been designated as a site of special scientific interest. It is one of the last remaining waterlogged woodlands and great for a stroll over the paths and boardwalks. Located opposite Golden Acre Park, Leeds LS16 8BQ United Kingdom You can call +44 113 278 2951 for further information.

Millenium Square in Leeds
Millenium Square is Leeds own version of Londons Trafalgar Square. Opened by the famous Nelson mandella. The Square can host up to 20,000 patrons at any one time.

Canal Gardens
Canal Gardens are close to Roundhay Park in Leeds. For more information use the following contact details: Leeds LS8 2PR United Kingdom Telephone +44 113 266 1850

Liverpool

Albert Dock
The Albert Dock houses many award winning visitor attractions including Tate Liverpool, the famous Beatles Story, Merseyside Maritime Museum and the new International Slavery Museum.

The offices of the Albert Dock can be reached on +44 (0)151 708 7334

Liverpool Anglican Cathedral
The largest Anglican Cathedral in Britain and one of the great buildings of the twentieth century. The Cathedral is located at Liverpool Cathedral, Liverpool L1 7AZ, UK and you can call them on +44 (0)151 709 6271

Birmingham

Lickey Hills Park
A popular spot for travelers and the local people of Birmingham. The park covers 524 acres and is a mixture of coniferous and deciduous trees, bluebells, marshes and heaths. there is a also vast amounts of wildlife to be seen. Lickey Hills Country Park is situated to the south-west of the city, in the Bromsgrove area at Warren Lane Birmingham B45 8ER United Kingdom and is open in the Summer from 10am till 7pm and in the winter from 10am till 5pm

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to do On Vacation in France

2008-01-06T10:37:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.freeineurope.com

Paris

The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Admission is free every first Sunday of the Month. The Grounds and Gardens are free all year round and one of the most popular places to visit in Paris. The spectacular museum is home to many famous art pieces including the Mona Lisa. It is located on the Seine for the best ways to get there see this link.

Roller Blading Tour in Paris
Roller Blading Tour on Friday nights, skating tour and to encourage roller skating as a leisure activity, as a sport or as a means of transportation. It leaves from Place Raoul Dautry in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. Between the Montparnasse office tower and the Paris-Montparnasse train station. The tours start at 10pm and go for around 3 hours. They run every Friday of the year except for when there is rain or slippery road conditions.

Fragonard Perfume Museum
Fragonard Perfume Museum Since 1926 Fragonard has been creating perfumes by combining traditional craft methods with the most modern production techniques.

Notre-Dame Cathedral
The Notre-Dame Cathedral a must see for all visitors to Paris, it is located on the Seine and is free to walk through. Some museums within the complex will ask for a small admission fee. It is located on the Seine at Ile de la Cité 6, Place du Parvis F-75004 PARIS. and general information can be obtained by calling +33-1-42.34.56.10.

Lyon

Gardens (Jardin) of Rosa Mir
The Gardens of Rosa Mir in Lyon could be mistaken for private gardens. There you will find concrete sculptures and beautifull forrests. Designed by Jules Senis in honor of his mother. Located at 87, rue de la Grande Lyon 69004 France you can phone +33 4 7839 2628 for more information.

Esplenade de Fourviere
For those wanting to capture a truly magnificant view of the city of Lyon than a walk along this Esplenade will fullfill your wish. Bring binoculars if you can. The exact location is Place de Fourvière Lyon 69005 France. Enjoy!

Cathedral of St Jean
The Cathedral of St Jean is the Cathedral of the Archbishop of Lyon. The Cathedral was built between 1180 and 1480 in the Romanesque and Gothic styles. A magnificant building. The Cathedral is located at 70 rue St-Jean, Vieux Lyon, Lyon, France and for more information you can call on +33 (0)4-78-92-82-29

Marseilles

Arc de Triopmphe - Marseille
This monument was constructed by Penchaud in 1823 to commemorate the victories of the French Revolution and the First Empire, and as a tribute to the glory of the Republic, the Consulate, and the Empire. The Arc is located at Place Jules Guesde Marseilles 13003 France.

Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde
This distinctive basilica/church dominates the city of Marseille from its high point of 154m It was built on the site of the first chapel erected in 1214

The Abbey of Saint Victor
The Abbey of St Victor is situated on the southern bank of the Vieux-Port in Marseille played an important role in Christianity’s development in the Mediterranean between the 11th and 18th centuries. Admission is free but there is a small charge to view the crypt.

The Old Port (Vieux Port)
The Old Port is the hub of Marseilles, lined by its quais, filled with fishing boats and yachts, and surrounded by small streets teeming with seafood restaurants and shops. The Quai des Belges, at the end of the port, hosts a fish market, every morning of the week, that has a life of its own. The wide quais are popular places for leisurely strolling, and the many terrace cafés opposite provide handy “rest stops” for when you’re tired of walking. You can even make a “loop” of the Old Port, walking around three sides and taking the little ferryboat across from one side to the other. The old port is located at 34 quai du port | (on the side of The Panier), Marseille, France and you can phone the authorities on +33 04 91 13 89 00

The Galeries la Fayette
For the fashion addict you can not not miss a free fashion show at Galeries la Fayette. Free Fashion shows by top designers are given at 3pm each Friday. The Galeries lafayette is located at 40, boulevard Haussmann 75009 PARIS.

Luxembourg Gardens
The park, once only entered by royalty is home to magnificent sculptures and statues including the original statue of liberty. You can find the Park at 15 rue de Vaugirard; 75006 Paris You can also contact them via telephone: +33 (0)331 42 34 20 00. This is a wonderfull place to come to and relax.

Toulouse

Hotel Resseguier - Toulouse
This magnificant mansion was built during the 17th century for François Resseguier. The cafe at on th etop floor of the Hotel offers magnificant views of the city. The hotel is located at 3, rue du Lieutenant-Colonel Pelissier Toulouse 31000 France.

Games Library - Toulouse
Great for those who are travelling with toddlers and young children. All the games offered are educational. Your children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times. The Games Library is located at 20, rue Raymond-IV Toulouse 31000 France.

Prairie des Filtres - Toulouse
The largest green space in the city centre runs from the Pont-Neuf to the Pont-Saint-Michel, along the river bank. It’s one of the best places in the city for a walk. The Park is located at Cours Dillon Toulouse 31300 France.

Capitole - Toulouse
This is the impressive city hall of Toulouse. It now houses the Capitole theatre as well. While you strole through the courtyard you can admire the work of local 19th-century artists. Capitole is located at Place du Capitole Toulouse 31000 France.

Basilique of St Sernin - Toulouse
This church largest remaining Romanesque church in the world. It takes its name from Saint Saturnin. It’s especially worth visiting for the exterior brickwork. The church is located at 13, Saint-Sernin Place Toulouse 31000 France.

Nice

Arènes et jardins de Cimiez - Nice
Arènes et jardins de Cimiez features a little olive grove, Roman amphitheatres and a monastery garden, together making up a stroller’s paradise in the chic district of Cimiez. The park is located at Avenue du Monastère de Cimiez Nice 06000 France.

Phare et digue - Nice
This is the wall that leads to Nices’ Lighthouse and is not to be missed for the travellers amongst us who enjoy a little peace and quiet. Listening only to crashing waves. Located at Port de Nice Nice 06300 France

Massena Square - Nice
This is the most popular city square in Nice. It is surrounded by the Albert I and Massena Gardens. The red buildings surrounding the Square are very imposing. Located at Place Massena Nice 06000 France

Colline du Chateau - Nice
This Park is loved by locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by carobs, pine trees and figs, view the beautiful waterfall and enjoy the spectacular views or see the maritime museum. The park is located at Tour Bellanda Nice 06300 France.

Promenade des Anglais - Nice
This Promenade follows the coast of Nice for several Kilometres and is much loved by locals and tourists alike. Famous for its blue chairs from which you can enjoy the view. The Promenade is located along the “Baie des Anges” Nice 06000 France.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to do On Vacation in Holland

2008-01-06T10:22:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.freeineurope.com

The Jordaan
The Jordaan was built at the large expansion of Amsterdam in early 17th century. The Jordaan is the artistic centre of Amsterdam.

Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans - Just outside Amsterdam, the Zaanse Schans is a delightful old hamlet on the banks of the river Zaan with characteristic green wooden houses. Open daily from 9am to 5pm it is located at Schansend 1, 1509 AW Zaandam you can also call them on +31 (0)75 616 82 18. This site is true picturesque holland. The site is free but there are a few little museums with in the area that do charge admission.

The Alkmaar Cheese Markets
More renowned now a days as a major tourist attraction back in 1916 it was a vital centre of trade where on average 300 tonnes of cheese was traded. A tradition which has only been continued in Alkmaar since 1939. These days the Alkmaar Cheese markets are held on 22 Fridays of the year from mid April to mid September on the Waagplein in the centre of Alkmaar.

Before 1901 buildings covered the Waagplein it was enlarged on several occasions but now it is only about 10% of it’s original size. and it is surrounded by many little bars and restaurants.

The moving and weighing of cheese is carried out by the Alkmaar Cheese Carriers Guild. The guild consists of four groups of seven men each. They each a (veem) for carrying the cheese. The veem is carried by two of the carriers with straps over there shoulders.

Get in early because the Waagplein get crowded very early.

The Flower Markets (Bloemenmarkt)
The Flower Markets in Amsterdam is the only floating flower markets in the world. The scent of fresh flowers and bulbs are welcoming and the surrounding terraces.

Vondel Park - Amsterdam
The Vondel Park is located in the centre of Amsterdam. A 120 acres of gardens. Definetly worth a visit in the summer months with regular free concerts and street entertainers.

Kerringhuis - The Barrier
Kerringhuis is a massive man made barrier the dutch built to aid their fight against rising water. A master piece of modern engineering. Entry is free but a guided tour will set you back a few euros. The Keringhuis, Water Information Centre is next to the Maeslantkering Nieuw Oranjekanaal 139 3151 XL HOEK VAN HOLLAND telephone: 0031 (0)174 – 511222.

Parade of Flags
Parade of Flags boasts 230 flags. Located between the Erasmus bridge and the Verlengde Willems bridge. Also quite spectacular at night.

Rotterdam Walk of Fame
Rotterdam Walk of Fame, the European Walk of Fame is one of the fastest growing tourist attractions in Rotterdam. Following the example of Hollywoods famous Walk of Fame. The Walk of Fame Starboulevard is situated on SCHIEDAMSEDIJK nearby Maritiem Museum Rotterdam and Buitenmuseum. The starboulevard can be reached by foot, metro (stop Leuvehaven), trams 6 and 20.

Windmills at Kinderdijk - Rotterdam
The Windmills at Kinderdijk, just outside Rotterdam, is an area where there are 19 beautifully maintained windmills. The windmills are listed on the World Heritage List of. UNESCO. See the link for information where it located.

The Begijnhof - Amsterdam
The Begijnhof is an enclosed courtyard dating from the early 14th century. Built for a sisterhood of Nuns called the begijntjes. A very piecefull place to sit, think and relax. Located at Begijnhof 30 Amsterdam. You can also reach them via the telephone on +31 (0)20-6221918.

The Skinny Bridge - Amsterdam
The famous skinny bridge across the river Amstel and opposite of the Carré theatre in Amsterdam, is an Old Dutch design wooden bridge known as a double-swipe.

Gassan Diamonds - Amsterdam
Gassan Diamonds offers a unique look inside this diamond factory. The tour takes around 90 minutes and offcourse you are welcome to make a purchase. Located at Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173 - 175 1011 LN Amsterdam. You can reach them via the telephone as well on +31(0)20 - 622 5333. Well worth a visit. You will be encouraged to purchase but it is not compulsary.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do On Vacation in Dallas

2008-01-06T09:40:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.tourtexas.com

Having fun doesn't have to be expensive! The many things to see and do in Dallas include those that can be enjoyed absolutely free. Consider these offerings:

Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive
A growing number of bronze, larger-than-life-size steers and their cowboy escorts moo've along Pioneer Plaza - adjacent to the Dallas Convention Center. This bronze cattle drive is located on the actual Shawnee Trail drive of the 1850s - and is the largest bronze monument of its kind in the world.

Outdoor Sculpture Tour
Downtown, Young & Griffin StreetsDiscover over 30 distinctive sculptures on the sidewalks of Downtown. Along with pieces from the 19th century, there are contemporary works, including a painter capturing Dallas on canvas.

Sculpture Garden
Enjoy the Sculpture Garden at the base of the statuesque Trammell Crow Center in Downtown. More than 20 statues from the French masters, including Rodin, reside in this peaceful setting with cascading waters and beautiful gardens.

Free/Donations Accepted
Tues. - Sun. 10 am - 5 pm
Thurs. 10 am - 9 pm

Mustangs Sculpture in Las Colinas
Nine mustangs, bronze, beautiful and larger-than-life, splash their way across a stream cut through the stone and granite plaza of Williams Square. Stroll across the plaza and visit the Mustangs of Las Colinas Sculpture & Exhibit, which includes an informative 20 minute film about mustangs and the making of this breathtaking sculpture.

Exhibit Center Open: Tues. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
In nearby Irving, O'Connor Road, North of Highway 114, 972-869-9047

Tour the Morton H. Meyerson
The acoustically renowned Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, designed by I.M. Pei, is yours to tour on selected Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 1 p.m. (please call in advance for monthly tour schedule as tours are subject to change with rehearsals and performances) Discover the 4,535 pipes on the Herman W. Lay Family Organ - this $1.36 million organ, crafted by C.B. Fisk Inc., is truly an acoustical wonder!

Enthusiastic and experienced volunteer docents are available to welcome visitors, school groups, conventions, families, and others for a one-hour tour detailing points of interest throughout the Meyerson. Once a month, schedule permitting, a thirty-minute organ demonstration of the Lay Family Concert Organ is presented, followed by a tour of the Center.

Free one hour tours at 1 pm. Events hosted at the center are by admission only.

Downtown, 2301 Flora Street, 214-670-3600

Dallas Central Library
Read all about it at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library. This public library includes one of the original copies of the Declaration of Independence, printed in 1776 - also on permanent display, is William Shakespeare's First Folio of Comedies, Histories & Tragedies. The library's Children Center is one of the largest in the country.

Mon. - Thurs. 9 am - 9 pm
Fri. - Sat 9 am - 5 pm
Sun. 9 am - 1 pm

Downtown, 1515 Young Street, 214-670-1700

Spanish Art at the Meadows Museum
The Meadows Museum at Southern Methodist University has the most comprehensive collection from the Spanish masters outside of Spain. There are also special exhibitions, a sculpture garden, and the tree-lined SMU campus is an eye-catcher itself. Call about special exhibits.

Free on Thursdays after 5 p.m.

Wed. - Fri. 11 am - 8 pm
Sat. - Sun. 11 am - 5 pm

5900 Bishop Blvd, 214-768-2516

Spring Creek Farm
Visit Spring Creek Farm and see how the famous Owens Country Sausage began, as you tour a museum featuring a fully equipped kitchen, workshop, butchery and country store with articles and replicas dating back to the early 1900s. Outdoors, see Belgian draft horses, miniature ponies and other animals. Self guided tours daily - guided tours for groups of eight or more by reservation only.

Mon. - Fri. 9 am - 3 pm
Reservations requested in advance.

1401 East Lookout Drive at Plano Road, 972-235-0192

Free Admission Museums
The eight museums of Fair Park offer an exceptional variety all in one location near Downtown. Admission is charged at some but quite a few are Free! Donations are accepted. Those that offer free admission:

* The African American Museum (exception - special exhibitions) 214-565-9026.
Tues. - Fri. noon - 5 pm
Sat. 10 am - 5 pm
Sun. 1 pm - 5 pm
* The Hall of State (exception - special exhibitions) 214-421-4500.
Mon - Sat 9 am - 5 pm
Sun 1 pm - 5 pm

City Hall of Fame
Famed architect I.M. Pei designed the inverted wedge shaped building, one of the most distinctive structures in all of Dallas. The plaza is home to one of Henry Moore's largest bronze sculptures.

Downtown, 1500 Marilla Street, 214-670-3687
1A Retail Renaissance

Dallas Tourist Information Center
Relive the city's past with a visit to the Old Red Courthouse, site of the Dallas Tourist Information Center in the Downtown Historic District. The Center features touch screen information stations, Internet access stations, viewing room to see Dallas videos, and a full staff available every day of the week. Just around the corner you will find John Neely Bryan's Cabin, reconstructed home of Dallas. founder - just a stroll away, is the popular West End, Dealey Plaza and the DART Light Rail.

Downtown Historic District
The Downtown Historic District is located in the block enclosed by Market, Elm, Commerce and Houston Streets, 24-Hour Hotline 214-571-1301

John F. Kennedy Memorial
Dallas pays homage to one of its darkest times, when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated during his 1963 visit. Designed by Kennedy family friend, Philip Johnson, the John F. Kennedy Memorial is an open-roofed, concrete walled monument symbolic of an open tomb. It is not unusual to find flowers and notes placed here. Nearby, the infamous School Book Depository and Grassy Knoll have changed little since that devastating day in our Nation's history.

M-Line All Around
The historic M-Line Streetcar meets the modern new M-Line Trolley Bus to create the M-Line service. Ride the streetcar down McKinney Avenue connecting to the Trolley Bus to St. Paul and Ross, within walking distance of the Dallas Museum of Art. Ride down Main Street to the famous West End to have lunch, shop, or just browse the shops. Whatever your interest maybe the M-Line can get you there for free!

Donations Accepted
Mon - Fri 7 am - 10 pm
Sat - Sun 10 am - 10 pm

Service 7 days a week. Call for schedule, 214-855-0006

Arts District Stroll
Take a one-hour guided walking tour of the Dallas Arts District where trained docents lead you through the largest arts area in the country. First Saturday each month. Meet at the Crow Collection of Asian Art. 10:30 a. m. Please R.S.V.P.

Arts District Friends 2010 Flora Street, 214-953-1977

Farmers Branch Historical Park
The Farmers Branch Historical Park is home to several historic structures that range in time from the 1840's to the 1940's. Structures include log cabins, the oldest stone structure on its original foundation in North Texas, and a 1930's gas station. Tours free, interactive programs available.

Mon - Fri 8 am - 6 pm
Sat - Sun 12 pm - 6 pm

Call 972-406-0184 for information

West End Story
What once was a warehouse and an old candy and cracker factory has been reborn into a tourist's delight. Downtown's West End Historic District, great for browsers, features over 50 specialty shops at the West End MarketPlace plus a variety of restaurants and clubs. Summertime nights in the MarketPlace are often filled with the sound of free concerts.

Downtown/Market and Munger Streets: 214-748-4801

West End Association Event Hotline: 214-741-7185

Observation Station
From the observation area known as Founders Plaza at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, you'll see some of the 2,300 daily takeoffs and landings from one of the world's busiest airports. Witness winged wonders in this area featuring 20 parking spaces, long-distance binoculars, graph board to help you identify the different aircraft, speaker system featuring audio straight from the Control Tower, plus four picnic areas.

Open daily - 6:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

2829 30th St. (Carbon Road) at DFW International Airport, 972-574-6000

Super Model Train
The U.S.' largest permanent model train display is in Dallas, and happily, it.s in the lobby of Children's Medical Center of Dallas. Eight trains run simultaneously at this free exhibit. Children's Medical Center has a small fee for parking.

1935 Motor Street, between Stemmons Frwy. and Harry Hines Blvd., 214-640-2000

Fantasy Landing
Fantasy Landing is Dallas' first public playground where able-bodied children and those with disabilities can play together. The playground features customized ramps, tennis courts and pull tunnels with bars for children in wheelchairs. Brightly-colored brick paths help visually impaired children find their way through the play area.

Kiest Park in Oak Cliff, 214-939-2746

Dallas Farmers Market
Seven days a week from 7 a.m.- 6 p.m. (with the exception of special holidays), local farmers display and sell a mouth watering and eye pleasing selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, herbs and floral plants at the Dallas Farmers Market. A perfect place to leisurely stroll and take in the colorful, glorious sights at this open-air market.

Open Daily 7 am - 6 pm

1010 South Pearl Street, 214-939-2808

Celebrate Good Times
Numerous festivals and parades are held each year in the great Dallas outdoors, and a good many are absolutely free. Many are holiday related, and nearly all have food, music, art and/or live entertainment. Use entertainment publications as your guide.

Call the Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau's 24-Hour Special Events Hotline at 214-571-1301, or visit Dallas on the World Wide Web at: www.visitdallas.com

Outdoor Activities
Hiking, biking, walking or running - Dallas offers happy trails for you. The Dallas Parks & Recreation Department maintains a number of bike/hike trails such as the 9.33 mile trail at White Rock Lake, 8300 Garland Rd, which connects with the 7.3 mile trail at White Rock Creek Park.

Call 214-670-4100 to locate a trail or 214-670-4039 for bike route maps.

Dallas Symphony Summer Concerts
During the Spring and early Summer months, The Dallas Symphony Orchestra performs in area parks and you can also hear "Jazz under the Stars" at the Dallas Museum of Art on Thursday evenings.

Dallas Symphony Orchestra: 214-692-0203

Dallas Museum of Art: 214-922-1200

Freedman's Cemetery Memorial
Located less than one mile north of Downtown Dallas, is Freedman's Cemetery, a pre-Civil War African-American burial ground in what was once the Freedman's Town Area - a small Dallas community formed by Blacks freed from slavery in the mid-1860s. This historic and state landmark memorial features larger-than-life-size figures cast in bronze by African American artist, David Newton.

North Central Expressway between Lemmon Avenue and Hall Street, 214-670-3284

Fountain Place
Waters dance and leap skyward at Downtown's Fountain Place. At the base of this dramatically sculpted 1.2 million sq. ft. office tower of green reflective glass lies an oasis of colorful flowers, waterfalls, 172 bubbler fountains and central fountain. The latter is one of the world's most complex and consists of 360 computer driven water jets. Designed by the acclaimed architectural firm of I.M. Pei & Partners, Fountain Place has received international recognition.

Downtown, 1445 Ross Avenue at Field Street, 214-855-7766

Hands On
Named after one of the foremost hand surgeons in the world, The Adrian E. Flatt, M.D. Hand Exhibit is an extraordinary private collection of over 100 cast, bronze-coated hands. The contrast of sizes, and sense of personal capability, when simply viewing life-size hands is intriguing. Personalities include: Katherine Hepburn, Walt Disney, Louis Armstrong and Winston Churchill - to name a few.

Mon - Fri 8 am - 9 pm

Baylor University Medical Center - Truett Building - 1st floor

3500 Gaston Ave., 214-820-6684

Retail Tale
Discover how Dallas' outstanding shopping reputation began with the opening of Neiman Marcus in the early 1900's. Over 95 years later, the Flagship Neiman Marcus in Downtown Dallas remains a ready-to-wear couture legend. The Downtown Dallas store features a museum on the fifth-floor which tells the Neiman Marcus story in the highest of style.

Neiman Marcus is Open: Mon. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Thurs. 10:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m.

2628 Main Street, 214-741-6911

Crow Collection of Asian Art
The Crow Collection of Asian Art contains more than 600 paintings, objects of metal and stone, and large architectural pieces from China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. Over 300 works are on display in the galleries including precious jade ornaments from China, delicate Japanese scrolls and a rarely seen 28-foot by 12-foot sandstone facade of an 18th century Indian residence.

Open: Tues. - Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Thursdays 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

2010 Flora Street, 214-979-6430

The Art of Sports
The Sports Legacy. The Gallery of Sports Art at Ameriquest Field in nearby Arlington is the nation's largest art gallery devoted to sports and features original art, limited edition lithographs and bronze statues representing a variety of sports including baseball, basketball, fishing, hunting and soccer. Children supervised by parents are welcome.

Open: Mon. - Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and on game nights open until the game is over.

1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, 817-461-1994

Hot Time Hotline
Get instant up-to-date information by calling The Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau's regularly updated Special Events Hotline. To access the 24-hour hotline in English or Spanish call: 214-571-1301.

Tap into Dallas
Pay a visit to Dallas, the internet way. For Dallas CVB information: www.dallascvb.com. For general Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex information: www.tourtexas.com/dfw. To order our FREE brochures, Click Here.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in San Franscisco

2008-01-06T09:15:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.nationalgeographic.com

Art/Music

San Francisco Modern Art Museum
The diverse offerings at the San Francisco Modern Art Museum—the first 20th century art museum on the West Coast—include paintings by Frida Kahlo, Henri Matisse, and Willem de Kooning, as well as exhibits on photography, architecture, and design. Free the first Tuesday of each month.

Asian Art Museum
Collection of Asian art, including ceramics, textiles, and paintings, that traces more than 6,000 years of history. Free the first Tuesday of every month.

Golden Gate Park Band
The Golden Gate Park Band has lively programs featuring marches, Broadway tunes, swing, and ethnic music. Sundays at 1 p.m. in the park's Spreckels Temple of Music from April through October.

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra
From Schubert to Stravinsky, the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra offers free concerts at venues throughout the city.

de Young Museum
The recently redesigned de Young Museum with its large sculpture garden in Golden Gate Park uses natural materials (copper, stone, wood, and glass) to blend into the surrounding greenery. You can also contemplate nature alongside Rodin's "Thinker," at another local museum, the Legion of Honor. Modeled after an 18th-century Parisian palace, the Legion houses ancient and European art. Both public museums are free the first Tuesday of each month.

Stern Grove Festival
The Stern Grove Festival offers an array of free outdoor concerts each summer from mid June through mid August on Sundays at 2 p.m.

Oakland Museum of California
The Oakland Museum of California features a permanent gallery of California art and artifacts and a Natural Sciences Gallery that allows visitors to stroll through nine different ecosystems including the Pacific Coast, the White Mountains, and the desert. Free the second Sunday of each month.

Attractions

San Francisco City Guides
San Francisco City Guides offer a number of free 1.5- to two-hour tours year-round. These neighborhood tours have fun and informative themes ranging from "downtown deco" to urban Victorians. History buffs can learn about the city's rich past, including the Gold Rush and the 1906 earthquake.

Golden Gate Bridge
Stroll across the iconic 1.7-mile Golden Gate Bridge, open to pedestrians and cyclists during daylight hours. A visitors center and gift shop known as the Roundhouse is located on the southeast side behind the Strauss Statue. Also on the south side are several acres of gardens that offer unobstructed bridge views.

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
Travel to the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood to visit the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Historic ships are docked at Hyde Street Pier, set against views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Free year-round, the visitors center has exhibits on the history of maritime voyages in the bay (self-guided tours of the ships cost $5). Also free at the wharf: views of San Francisco's famous sea lions at Pier 39.

Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square is on the National Register of Historic Places. A visit to Ghirardelli's former factory and flagship store is not without its rewards. You can see the company's original chocolate-making equipment on display, and yes, they'll also receive free samples of chocolate.

Crooked Lombard Street
Just a few blocks from Ghirardelli Square, take a drive down the famously crooked Lombard Street between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. With nine turns in just one block, this free photo op is definitely worth a detour.

Cable Car Museum
Admission is always free at the Cable Car Museum, where visitors can see antique cable cars as well a host of photographs, tools, and engines.

San Francisco Railway Museum
Stop by the free San Francisco Railway Museum, dedicated to the city's transit history, where your donations support the vintage F-Line streetcars. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Culture

Chinatown Night Market Fair
Travel to another world at the Chinatown Night Market Fair held every Saturday evening between late July and late October from 6 to 11 p.m. You'll find dozens of vendors, lion dancing, martial arts, Chinese opera, karaoke, and traditional instruments.

San Francisco Center for the Book
Learn the history and art of making books by hand at the San Francisco Center for the Book. Admission to the gallery is free weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the center offers numerous free readings, signings, and lectures.

Grabhorn Institute
Visit the free gallery at the Grabhorn Institute at the Presidio, where rare books, typefaces, and printing facilities are on display.

Museo ItaloAmericano
Check out the Museo ItaloAmericano, dedicated to Italian and Italian-American culture. A small gallery of paintings, sculptures, and photographs complements rotating exhibits such as paintings by an Italian artist inspired by Dante's Inferno. Free admission Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

Free Summer Events
Enjoy free summer events such as the San Francisco Free Folk Festival and the Haight-Ashbury Street Fair.

Children

Mocha Museum of Children's Art
Keep tabs on the art world's youngest stars at the Mocha Museum of Children's Art, where all of the works are created by kids. Admission to the galleries is always free.

Chabot Space and Science Center Telescope
The Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland offers free viewings through its state-of-the-art reflector telescope. Take in distant galaxies with a 180-degree view of the night sky. Friday and Saturday evenings, weather permitting. April through October from dusk to 10:30 p.m. and November through March from 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Zoo and Aquarium
Meet local creatures at the San Francisco Zoo and the California Academy of the Sciences' Steinhart Aquarium, both free the first Wednesday of each month.

Randall Museum
Explore the art, science, and environment of the Bay Area at the Randall Museum. Here, you'll find a live animal exhibit, woodshop, ceramics studio, and a greenhouse. Free Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Bay Area Discovery Museum's Lookout Cove
Investigate a shipwreck at the Bay Area Discovery Museum's Lookout Cove. This children's museum features a number of hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages including tidal pools, art studios, a theater, and more. Admission is free for families the second Saturday of each month from 1 to 5 p.m.

Outdoor

San Francisco Botanical Garden
Inundate your senses with more than 16,000 plants located in the 55 acres (22 hectares) of greenery at the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Admission is free, and complimentary garden tours are offered weekdays at 1:30 p.m. and 10:30 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. on weekends.

San Francisco Lawn Bowling Club
On a sunny day, try out a new sport courtesy of the San Francisco Lawn Bowling Club. This local organization has been around since 1901, when it was founded by a Scottish fraternal organization. It's said to possess the first municipal bowling green in the country. Free lessons are available every Wednesday at noon or by appointment in Golden Gate Park near Sharon Meadow.

Yerba Buena Gardens
Yerba Buena Gardens is open daily to the public from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. for free. It has a 2.5-acre meadow, waterfall, public art, and a memorial to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Theater/Dance

Free Shakespeare in the Park
Indulge in A Midsummer Night's Dream courtesy of Free Shakespeare in the Park, an annual offering of professional-level theater under the stars. Performances take place Saturdays and Sundays at 7:30 p.m. in parks city-wide from late June to late September.

Lindy in the Park
Join San Francisco's hepcats and jitterbuggers for Lindy in the Park, a free swing dancing party every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Golden Gate Park.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Niagara Falls, Ontario

2008-01-05T22:46:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.associated content.com

There are plenty of fun things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario and many of these are actually free of charge.

The Falls
Of course, viewing the Falls is the first free fun thing to do in Niagara Falls as the wonderful view is the best of the fun things to do in Niagara Falls. You can spend hours walking along the path next to the Falls, not only looking at the Falls themselves, but relaxing in the beautiful gardens and watching the many people as they walk by. At night, the Falls are illuminated with bright lights, and watching these lights is yet another free fun thing to do in Niagara Falls.

Niagara-On-The-Lake Wineries
Most of the many wineries in the Niagara-On-The-Lake region offer free tastings. The wineries are located along scenic vineyards, providing a nice change of scenery from the Falls.

Niagara Botanical Garden
Located between Niagara Falls and Niagara-On-The-Lake, the Niagara Botanical Gardens are a must see fun thing to do in Niagara Falls. Open year round, this 99 acre site offers beautiful grounds filled with flowers and plants which can be toured free of charge. This is a great place to allow kids to run and explore, while the parents take in the gorgeous scenery.

Fireworks at the Falls
During the summer, another fun thing to do in Niagara Falls is to watch the fireworks let off over the Falls. There are also free concerts in the park prior to the fireworks display. The Falls area gets very crowded on fireworks night, so get there early to make sure that you get a seat!

Niagara Parks Recreation Trail
Walk, bike, or run along the Niagara Parks Recreation Trail. The Niagara Parks Recreation Trail runs from Fort Erie to Fort George and provides great views of the gorge and surrounding area, giving users a different perspective of the Falls area.

Illumination at the Falls
Niagara Falls looks very different at night when the Illumination at the Falls lights are on. From May 1st until August 17th, between 9 pm and midnight, the Illumination at the Falls experience lights up Niagara Falls with shades of color. From August 18th through September 30th, the Illumination at the Falls lights are on from 8:30 pm until midnight. This attraction is perfect for visitors who want to take some spectacular photographs.

Niagara Falls Power Project Visitors Center
The Niagara Falls Power Project is just 5 miles down the Robert Moses Parkway, from downtown Niagara Falls, New York. The Niagara Falls Power Project Visitors Center is open from 9-5 daily, offering visitors free activities and educational information about the Power Project. Special events are planned regularly, and it is easy to reach the Niagara Falls Power Project Visitors Center from Niagara Falls. To visit, take the Robert Moses Parkway towards Lewiston for 4 miles, exiting at the Power Vista exit. Turn left on Route 104 for one mile, and park in the Power Vista parking lot.

Artpark Free Events and Family Fun
Artpark is just outside of Niagara Falls, located in the historic town of Lewiston, New York. During the summer months, artpark offers a variety of free events and activities for adults and families. Artpark sits on the Niagara River Gorge, providing visitors with great views of the lower Niagara River. Guests can picnic, fish, or take a walk along one of the scenic trails at Artpark.

Tuesday at the Park is a popular free attraction at Artpark during the summer. Free concerts are held at the Artpark Outdoor Ampitheater from June 5th through August 28th at Artpark. Concessions are availableat different concession stands during the free concerts. The concerts are scheduled for evening.

Artpark began offering an additional free concert program on Wednesday nights recently. Artpark Wednesdays are held from July 11th through August 22nd. Artpark Wednesdays offer free hands-on art activities for children, and National headliners for free concerts.

Family Weekends at Artpark are offered on Saturdays and Sundays in the month of July. Art demonstrations and activities for kids take place during July on the designated Artpark Family Weekends.

Lewiston Jazz Festival
The Lewiston Jazz festival is the perfect free summer event in the Niagara Falls area. Each year the Lewiston Jazz festival is held in the small town of Lewiston, attracting up to 30,000 visitors over the three-day event. The 2007 Lewiston Jazz Festival will feature 150 jazz musicians, food vendors, and art workshops. The dates of the Jazz Festival for 2007 are August 24 through August 26th. Lewiston can be reached by taking the Robert Moses Parkway from the downtown Niagara Falls area.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation on Kauai, Hawaii

2008-01-05T22:11:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation on Kauai, Hawaii. This information is excerpted from http://www.andhawaii.com.

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.

The Kukui Trail
This 5-mile (round trip) trail drops 2,000 feet into spectacular Waimea Canyon, and offers the shortest route to the canyon floor. There's a large swimming hole at the bottom. The trail begins off the Iliau Loop Trail.

The Kuilau Ridge Trail
This 4.2-mile (round trip) hike offers dramatic views of small waterfalls and a wealth of flora. The trailhead is about a mile beyond the University of Hawaii Agricultural Experimental Station on Route 580.

The Kalalau Trail
This is the original Hawaiian trail into Kalalau Valley, and offers dramatic views of Na Pali Coast and Kee Beach. It begins at Kee Beach where Highway 56 ends. Two miles inland is Hanakapiai Falls, which cascades 300 feet to a pool below. The trail travels on to Kalalau Valley, and many hikers camp overnight at Hanakapiai and before continuing on the next day. The entire trip is best made by experienced hikers.

Waimea in Hofgaard Park
Where Captain Cook first landed in the Islands in 1778. Waimea town also has a number of other historical buildings.

Waimea Canyon
Hike any of dozens of trails in Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific". There is a river, dozens of waterfalls, and countless unique and gorgeos attractions within this canyon.

Spouting Horn
Two miles past the Ho'oai Heiau on Lawai Road near Poipu, just past the Allerton Garden Visitor Center
It is two holes in the laba tubes under the ground, one of which makes a low 'dragon-moan' when the water rushes in – and the other one causes the ocean spray to shoot up in the air - sometimes 30 feet high.

Wailua Falls
Kapaia Valley
These twin falls were made famous by the opening credits in Fantasy Island.

Maniniholo Dry Cave
Easy to find at the side of the road at Haena
The cave is a big horizontal slit in the side of a mountain face. The beach park past it is very nice also.

Menehune Fishpond
Niumalu Rd. off Rte 51, near Nawiliwili (look for the green guardrail)
Amazing feat of architecture, whoever built it. Legend has it the tiny mythical race of menehune built it, but the ancient hawaiians were also very skilled at creating fishponds for fishing.

Kauai Coffee Company
1 Numila Rd, Eleele, HI 96705; (9am-5pm) - Phone: 808-335-5497
Hawaii's largest coffee estate welcomes visitors to learn about coffee growing, stand amidst coffee trees, and sample estate roasted coffee; Open 9-5 daily

Free Hula Shows
Lihue Airport every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Coconut Marketplace 4-484 Kuhio Hwy., Kapaa - Monday through Friday at 5:00 p.m. the hula halaus (schools) put on a free show of hula or Hawaiian music
Poipu Shopping Village, 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Drive, Monday thru Thursday at 5 pm.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Miami

2008-01-05T15:26:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.nationalgeographic.com

Art

Calle Ocho
On Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays), Little Havana's Calle Ocho transforms into an open-air gallery with 100+ artists, sculptors, and musicians filling the sidewalks with their creations and concerts. The event, held the last Friday of every month from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., is free of charge and includes walking tours of Little Havana.

Miami Art Museum
The Miami Art Museum offers free admission every Sunday and second Saturday of the month to view its collection of contemporary art.

Gables Art Walk
Go for a Gables Art Walk along Ponce de Leon Boulevard on Coral Gables Gallery Night. On the first Friday of every month galleries keep their doors open from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and give gratis art advice, provide transportation between galleries, and offer wine and cheese.

Wolfsonian-FIU Art Museum
The Wolfsonian-FIU art museum, located in a 1926 Mediterranean revival-style warehouse, features paintings, ceramics, posters, books, furniture, and architectural creations from the modern era. Free on Fridays after 6 p.m.

Centre Gallery
There's no fee to visit the Centre Gallery (+1 305 237 7186), at Miami Dade College's downtown campus, for exhibitions of contemporary art by international and local artists and performers.

Attractions

Biltmore Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables offers free tours of its historic grounds on Sunday afternoons at 1:30, 2:20, and 3:30 p.m with storytellers recounting its celebrity-filled past.

Art Deco Architecture
Explore the city's historic art deco architecture on a self-guided walking tour through South Beach. Follow 5th Street north to Dade Boulevard, and Alton Road east to the Atlantic Ocean—an area filled with more than 800 buildings exemplifying the pre-war modernism of the 1930s amidst the Deco District. Each January, the Miami Design Preservation League hosts the three-day Art Deco Weekend with free lectures and films.

JFK Torch of Friendship
Visit this free memorial on Biscayne Boulevard.

Little Havana
Little Havana is home to Hispanic culture, and honors its Cuban roots along Memorial Boulevard, located on 13th Avenue off Calle Ocho. Wander the handful of monuments, including the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame, the Hispanic equivalent of Hollywood's star-covered sidewalk; the eternal flame at the Brigade 2506 Memorial remembering the heroes of the Bay of Pigs; and more—all free.

Culture

Holocaust Memorial
Admission is always free at Miami's Holocaust Memorial, open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The memorial site features a photographic mural and a Memorial Wall with the names of concentration camp victims.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Located on the 50-acre Vizcaya estate, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens invites visitors to participate in programs that include performing arts, lectures, demonstrations, and tours of the National Historic Landmark on Free Sundays (the last Sundays of July, August, and September).

Jewish Museum of Florida
The exhibits at the Jewish Museum of Florida trace Jewish life in Florida since 1763. The museum waives admission fees on Saturdays.

Bacardi Museum
Visit the Bacardi Museum to discover the corporate and family history of this world-famous brand of rum, which began in 1862 and continues today. Tours are free but an appointment is required.

Children

Miami Art Museum
Miami Art Museum's Second Saturdays (second Saturday of every month) are free for families, 1-4 p.m. Kids and their parents can enjoy live music, storytelling, guided tours, gallery games, and dance performances.

Weintraub Observatory Star Show
Children will marvel at the Milky Way and gaze at far-off galaxies at the Miami Science Museum's free Weintraub Observatory Star Show, held on the first Friday of each month from 8 to 10 p.m. (the planetarium show starts at 8 p.m., and the observatory session is open from 8:30 to 10 p.m.—call ahead, as starting time varies based on the season).

Miami Children's Museum
Each month Target Free Third Friday at the Miami Children's Museum allows youngsters to explore hundreds of hands-on exhibits that teach art, culture, and communication at no cost to their parents. For this free interactive experience, come on the third Friday of the month from 3 to 9 p.m.

Miami Beach
The family-oriented stretch of Miami Beach from 53rd to 63rd Street offers a playground and piles of sand for castle building, picnics, and searching for buried treasure.

Family Fun Fest
Biscayne National Park's Family Fun Fest is held on the second Sunday of every month from January to May. This free public program promotes interaction with nature and hands-on activities for children and their parents.

Outdoor

Yoga
Get centered as you stretch along the shore with Yoga in the Park. The serene and scenic Bayfront Park offers free yoga classes every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday for advanced yoga enthusiasts or curious novices.

Environmental and Educational Tours
Venture to Virginia Key Beach Hammock or stroll Simpson Park for free environmental and educational tours. Between the two parks there are more than 30 acres (12 hectares) of coastline, dunes, and varied vegetation. Learn about four different ecosystems, endangered plants, and Miami history.

Snorkel
Snorkel among the colorful coral reef at Biscayne National Park.

Look for Manatees and Dolphins
Rangers at Biscayne National Park offer advice for spotting the manatees and dolphins that swim along the shore. Family Fun Fest is a free program held on the second Sunday of each month, January through May that highlights the park's diverse resources.

Ichimura Miami-Japan Garden
Ichimura Miami-Japan Garden offers a quiet place to stroll with its carefully manicured landscape, peaceful rock garden, and stone pagoda.

Beaches
Miles of free-access beaches dot the southern coast of Florida. Miami Beach has South Pointe Park (with a pier), South Beach, Surfside, and Haulover Park (a clothing-optional beach). South Miami boasts Matheson Hammock Park Beach, while Key Biscayne and Virginia Key have three beaches.

Free Concerts
Listen to the University of Miami's orchestra and a variety of guest instrumentalists at a Gusman Concert Hall performance. Admission is free for most concerts (call ahead to check).

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Cincinnati

2008-01-05T15:16:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Cincinnati, Ohio. This information is excerpted from http://www.cincinnati.com.

Cincinnati Art Museum
953 Eden Park Dr.
513-721-2787
Located in scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum provides more than 100,000 works. Music performances, poetry readings, lectures and discussions round out its cultural offerings. Teacher programs and family-children's events are also available.
Hours: Tuesday, Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Open to tour groups exclusively Tuesday through Friday, 9 to 11 a.m. Closed Mondays.
Admission: Free

Taft Museum
316 Pike St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-241-0343
The former home of Anna and Charles Taft, the half brother of former President William Howard Taft, features a wide array of art, ceramics, jewelry and sculpture from around the world and throughout history. Special exhibits visit each year. The Taft Museum recently completed a $18 million renovation and expansion project.
Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.
Free on Wednesdays.

Eden Park Krohn Conservatory
1501 Eden Park Dr.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-5707
Five areas shelter an extensive array of flora and fauna in Eden Park's greenhouses, complete with waterfalls. Seasonal areas change displays six times per year, including the renowned summer butterfly exhibit.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Admission: Free; donations are welcome. Nominal fees charged for special shows.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation on Big Island, Hawaii

2008-01-05T14:38:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation on the Big Island, Hawaii. This information is excerpted from http://www.halakahikiguesthouse.com

Volcano Winery
Go to the Volcano Winery in Volcano for a free wine tasting.

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo
You don't have to be a kid to enjoy a zoo. The Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo is the only tropical rainforest zoo in the United States. Located in Hilo, admission is free everyday.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory
Stop into the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory in Hilo. Take a self guided tour of their factory and grab tons of free samples like nuts, cookies and chocolates.

Onizuka Center for International Astronomy
offers free star gazing atop Mauna Loa.

Punalu'u Bakery
America's southernmost bakery is Punalu'u Bakery in the village of Naalehu. Stop in and try samples of their famous sweet rolls in delicious flavors such as Taro and Guava.

Aloha Fridays
Every Friday on the islands is affectionately referred to as "Aloha Fridays". One Friday, visit the Keauhou Shopping Center and get free ukulele lessons, free lei making classes, and free hula shows.

Akatsuka Orchid Gardens
The Akatsuka Orchid Gardens has one of the largest orchid collections in Hawaii. They've placed a basket of flowers by the entrance. Help yourself to one and place it in your hair just like the Hawaiians.

Kona Coffee Company
Free tours at the Holualoa Kona Coffee Company in Holualoa, and a complimentary cup of real Kona coffee, make this a great stop for all you coffee lovers. It's featured in "Frommer's Hawaii" as a recommended visit.

St. Benedicts Painted Church
One of several "painted churches" on the Big Island, St. Benedicts Painted Church's claim to fame are the trompe l'oeil wall paintings inside that give an illusion that you are in a huge cathedral.

Rainbow Falls
The 80-foot Rainbow Falls in Hilo, is renowned for the rainbow formed from its mist many mornings. One of the many state parks where admission is free.

Lava Tree State Park
Lava Tree State Park's (Pahoa) unusual volcanic feature is the result of a lava flow that swept through this forested area and left behind lava molds of the tree trunks.

Lapakahi State Historical Park
Re-enactments of the life of early Hawaiian common people through cultural demonstrations of daily activities, story telling, are performed on this self-guided walk through of a partially restored remains of this ancient site at Lapakahi State Historical Park.

Akaka Falls
A pleasant self-guided walk, through lush tropical vegetation and scenic vista points, the free-falling 'Akaka Falls plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge.

Big Island Candies
When you go into Big Island Candies in Hilo, you will be greeted at the door with “aloha,' complimentary Kona coffee, and chocolate and cookie samples. Through large glass windows, you will be able to see how their delicious treats are made.

Puako Petroglyphs Archaeological Preserve
Free guided tours of the Puako Petroglyphs Archaeological Preserve pick you up at Waikaloa's Kings Shops every Saturday at 8:30 am.

Mehana Brewery
Visit the Mehana Brewery in Hilo for free samples of their specialty brews like the Tsunami Lager,and the Mehana Volcano Red ale.

Hilo Hatties
Hilo Hatties is a souvenir store. You are offerd a free shell lei and refreshingl drink as you enter. You can get out of the heat and watch videos about Hawaii.

Punalulu Black Sand Beach
Punalulu Black Sand Beach is the most accessible black sand beach on the Big Island. Endangered turtles come here yearlong to lay their eggs, and there is no fee to enter.

Hilo Living Hall of Fame
Started in 1933, Banyan Trees were planted by various dignitaries and celebrities such as George Herman (aka Babe Ruth), Cecil DeMille, Richard Nixon, Amelia Earhart and others.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation on Maui

2008-01-05T11:52:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation on Maui, Hawaii. The following is excerpted from http://www.www.mauigoodness.com

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.

The Road to Hana
Making the trip to Hana is one of the best things to do in Maui. Really, the best way to experience all that Hana has to offer is by staying in Hana for a few days. If this isn’t an option, the day trip is still wonderful. We recommend those that get car sick to not drive all the way to Hana. The Road to Hana is about the gorgeous views and waterfalls along the way. Drive till you feel 1/2 content, and turn around. Driving the entire road there and back will take over 5 hours without stopping.

Go to the Beach
This is a no-brainer. It’s free and one of the best activities to do. Choose one of Maui’s best beaches and make the journey.

Snorkeling
You can snorkel for free right off the beach.

Do a Nature Hike
Taking a hike through rainforests and to waterfalls is what Maui is all about. Hiking in Maui is really the best way to see the real beauty of the island. Taking a hike by yourself is great so long as you’re on a path and know where you’re going. Avoid tresspassing.

Sunrise from Haleakala Crater
Watching the sunrise from the Haleakala Crater is breath-taking. You’ll have to wake up really early to get to the top but it is worth is if it forecast to be a clear day. Check the weather forecast before starting out.

Whale Watching
By far one of the best Maui activities to do is whale watching. This is only possible during the winter months due to humpback migration patterns. You can sometimes see them right from shore. Take a pair of binoculars for better viewing.

Explore Upcountry
The paniolo side of Maui has some of the best views on the island. Makawao and Kula are fun areas to explore with beautiful homes and great shopping.

Peruse the Art Galleries
Each town offers its own art galleries, but some of the more popular areas are Lahaina, Wailea, Paia, and Makawao. You can find everything from ocean scenes to wild abstract art in the many art galleries on Maui.

Go Frisbee Golfing
Frisbee Golf is a fun outdoor activity that allows for the players to get some exercise while enjoying Maui’s weather and views. Bring your own frisbee and this activity will not cost anything.

Wine Tasting
The Tedeschi Winery upcountry is a fun spot to stop and sample some of Maui’s own wine. By no means is the wine award winning, but the novelty of the experience and the views while up there are worth the journey.

Visit the Iao Valley
One of the few places in the world as lush as Hana would be the Iao Valley. Bring a rain slick and be prepared to enter a world of towering cliffs and the Iao Needle. This area is also rich with Hawaii’s history.

Explore a Lava Field
Maui’s latest eruption a couple hundred years ago put the great volcano of Haleakala to rest. The lava fields from the last lava flow make up miles of jagged moon-like landscape on the southern tip of the island. Makena is largely covered in this flow, which is quite breath taking to visit.

Watch Kiteboarding and Windsurfing
Maui is the windsurfing and kitesurfing capital of the world. Warm winds blow almost everyday in a very predictable manner leaving shores with perfect conditions. With winter swells, the surf adds to the excitement. Just watching these brave athletes launch 60 feet in the air is worth the trip to Kite Beach on the North Shore.

Watch Giant Waves
In the winter, Maui is battered by enormous waves. Watching Hookipa or Jaws while safe on shore can be quite a rush. The surfers who challenge these waves are fascinating to watch.

Volunteer
Volunteering on vacation is becoming a widely practiced activity on the islands. Those that decide to make the trip to Kaho’olawe, to replant trees and shrubs, are looked upon by locals with great respect. This is also a wonderful way to build lasting relationships with visitors and residents alike.

Visit a Blow Hole
You can find many different blowholes on the island, and with large swells, these spouting explosions can perform quite a show. This is one of those free activities that only require a short hike and directions.

Visit a Black Sand Beach
Waianapanapa State Park, just before Hana Town, is the best black sand beach on the island. The contrast between the black sand and bright blue ocean makes for some dynamic photographs. There are also sea caves and lava tubes in the park. Ancient Hawaiian lore surrounds this area.

Watch Spinner Dolphins
La Perouse is a regular area for Spinner Dolphins to congregate in the morning. You can sometimes see them when you are snorkeling.

Join the Biggest Halloween Celebration in Hawaii
Lahaina, Maui is known for its Halloween party on Front Street. Every year over 25,000 people line the oceanfront street in full costumes to participate in a Mardi Gras environment. This party tops Halloween anywhere else.

Bird Watching
Maui is home to many species of beautiful Hawaiian birds. Visit Haleakala National Park to see Maui forest birds.

Swim Under a Waterfall
Find a waterfall to swim under and around. There are hundreds all over the island, but you may need to get up early to find one to have all for yourself.

Go Sightseeing
Maui has a rich history that can be found in many areas of the island. Visit some of the many churches began by the first missionaries on the island.

Visit Historic Lahaina Town and its Banyan Tree
The old whaling town of Lahaina is rich with history. Before it was a whaling harbor, it acted as the meeting place for Hawaiian kings to throw huge parties. One of Lahaina’s prominent features is the Banyan Tree that extends over an entire block.

Take a Photo Safari
Grab your cameras and set out in any direction. You’re bound to find brilliant landscapes to capture as well as unique plant and animal life.

Swim in a Natural Ocean Pool
There are many natural pools built into the rocks around the coastline. One of the best spots can be found on the upper west of Maui. The Olivine Pools are surrounded by a wild volcanic landscape that oddly resembles the moon.

Explore Tide Pools
The most life on Maui can be found in the tide pools. You’ll find fish, crabs, banana slugs, sea urchins and more when exploring the little arches and pools within the volcanic coasts of Maui. Be very careful not to harm the marine life that you walk around, and remember that it can be slippery.

Visit a Bamboo Forest
Many of the best hikes on Maui begin in bamboo forests. Bamboo grows extremely fast and tall which makes for stunning landscapes.

Watch the Sunrise in Hana
The sun rises on the East side of the island with dramatic colors. Hana is so peaceful in the morning and can offer a calming awakening that will start your day right.

Go Body Surfing
Not all beaches on the island are good for body surfing due to lava formations and dangerous waves. When you find the right sandy beach, the body surfing can be awesome.

Cliff Diving
From Black Rock in Ka’anapali to the rock cliffs at Venus Pools, Maui is notorious for really good cliff diving areas. Make sure to know where you’ll be landing before jumping. Be careful and know your own limits. Don't get carried away by seeing other people doing it. It is often just as much fun to watch (and a lot safer)

Visit a Red Sand Beach
Hana is home to a perfect isolated red sand beach. It’s also a nudist beach, so be prepared to see some bodies. This bright red beach is mind-blowing and wonderful for pictures.

Enjoy a Maui Sunset
Some of the best sunsets on the planet are found in Maui. The South and West shores offer the most spectacular views over the ocean. As the sun dips into the sea, you may see a green flash of light.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Columbus with Children

2008-01-04T18:56:00.000-05:00

This information is excerpted from http://www.parentzone.com

Slate Run Metro Park
Visit Slate Run Living Historical Farm and work on the functional 1880s farm.
1375 SR 674 North
Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110
614-891-0700

The Homestead Park
Kids of all ages will love this huge, accessible park. It is packed with swings, slides, sandboxes, tunnels, ramps, water squirt machines, and cranes to dig and scoop rocks. There are also walking paths, basketball courts, and shelter houses. A great way to spend the day.
4675 Cosgray Road
Hilliard, Ohio 43026
614-876-9554

The Mall at Tuttle Crossing Play Area
The mall and COSI collaborated to create a fun, space-themed play area in the mall's lower level.

5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd
Dublin, Ohio 43016
614-717-9300

Three Creeks Park
Over 1,000 acres, this Columbus Metro Park is named for the area where three creeks meet: Alum, Big Walnut and Blacklick. It is part of the Franklin County Greenways Program, which is a 13-mile system of trails that runs alongside 7 area creeks. Also enjoy picnicking, nature programs, fishing and canoeing.

3860 Bixby Road
Groveport, Ohio 43125
614-891-0700

Wildwood Park
A wooden playground filled with sandboxes, castles, boats, mazes, tunnels, slides, and swings. Also has soccer fields, walking paths, and shelter/picnic areas.

West Broadway
Granville, Ohio
740-587-0707

All Children's Playground
This play area can be used by all kids! It is handicapped accessible and considerate of children's different needs.

345 East Wilson Bridge Road
Worthington, Ohio
614-436-2743

Ballantrae Fountains
Located within Ballantrae Communities, this 20-acre entry park features dancing hares watching over more than 20 fountains. The kids will love dancing in the water. Pack a lunch and spend the afternoon!

Ballantrae Communities
Dublin, Ohio 43017
614-766-1111

Blacklick Woods Park
Blacklick Woods Metro Park is a 643-acre park that includes the Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a swamp preserve designated a National Natural Landmark. At this Columbus Metro Park, you will find a four-mile trail, picnic facilities, nature center, a golf course and more. Many programs for children and families are available, as are meeting facilities and restrooms.

6975 E. Livingston Avenue
Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
614-891-0700

Blendon Woods Metro Park
With the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, Blendon Woods Metro Park is the place to bird watch! This beautiful 654-acre Columbus Metro Park is home to the 118-acre Walden Wildlife Refuge and hundreds of bird species and other animals. Also enjoy nature programs, skating, hiking trails, playground equipment and more.

4265 E. Dublin-Granville Road
Westerville, Ohio 43081
614-891-0700

Glacier Ridge Park
Glacier Ridge Park, a Columbus Metro Park, features a 200 acre wetland area. You can climb a 25 foot observation tower to see a wide variety of animal species or travel on a boardwalk across the wetlands. The family will also enjoy picnicking, trails, nature program, playgrounds and more.

9801 Hyland Croy Road
Plain City, Ohio 43064
614-891-0700

Inniswood Metro Gardens
Featuring more than 2,000 species of plants, Inniswood is sure to delight nature lovers. Enjoy walking trails, horticultural programs and more.

940 S. Hempstead Road
Westerville , Ohio 43081
614-891-0700

Pickerington Ponds Park
Pickerington Ponds has been designated as one of Ohio's Important Birding Areas by Aududon Ohio and is home to more than 250 species of birds. In addition to picnicking and nature programs, this Columbus Metro Park also features the Blacklick Creek Greenway Trail, which is part of the Franklin County Greenways program.

7680 Wright Road
Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110
614-891-0700

Prairie Oaks Park
Prairie Oaks Park has beautiful flowers in abundance and features the Big Darby State and National Scenic River. Darby Bend Lakes is a new water recreation area for fishing, boating, picnicking and more. Also enjoy nature programs, skiing, trails, canoeing and more.

3225 Plain City-Georgesville Road
West Jefferson, Ohio 43026
614-891-0700

Sharon Woods Park
Kids and adults will love fishing in the 14-acre Schrock Lake. You'll also enjoy the playground equipment, trails, nature programs and more available at this Columbus Metro Park.

6911 Cleveland Avenue
Westerville , Ohio 43081
614-891-0700

Visit http://www.metroparks.net for specific information on the parks mentioned above

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation on Oahu

2008-01-04T10:38:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on Oahu. The following information is excerpted from http://www.hawaiiguide.com

DIAMOND HEAD
You can hike 760-foot Diamond Head for a 360-degree view of Waikiki, Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. Enter off Monsarrat Avenue and park inside the crater. Make sure you are wearing good shoes and take your time getting to the top. Most people carry water and a camera. Call 587-0300.

U. S. S. ARIZONA MEMORIAL
Interpretive programs, including a documentary film about the attack on Pearl Harbor and the boat trip to the USS Arizona Memorial, begin at 7:45 a.m. The last program each day begins at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are issued on a first come, first served basis. Visitors should expect crowds. Daily visitation to the park is about 4,500 people. Admission is free. Call 422-0561. The park is open seven days a week 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day, December 25, and January 1.

NUUANU PALI LOOKOUT
The lookout is on Oahu's windward side from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout at the 1, I 86-foot summit of the Pali Highway. If you drive you will have to take the Nuuanu Pali Lookout exit off highway 61.

HISTORIC BATTERY RANDOLPH
Battery Randolph is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Built in 1911, the massive, steel reinforced concrete structure housed two 14" diameter guns on "disappearing carriages" whose accuracy and range of 11 miles allowed them to outgun any Battleship then afloat. The Battery survived demolition attempts in 1968 and became the home of the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii in 1976. Its unique construction and architecture are featured through exhibits and adaptive restoration.
Museum Hours are 10 AM to 4:30 PM Tuesday Through Sunday
Closed on Mondays, Christmas and New Year's Day
Free Admission - Donations Accepted

ALOHA TOWER
Ride the elevator to the 10th floor of the 185-foot Aloha Tower, the tallest structure on Oahu until 1959. View downtown Honolulu and the harbor. It will take you hours to stroll through the adjoining Aloha Tower Marketplace.

HONOLULU ACADEMY OF ARTS
The Academy of Arts, established in 1927, houses a number of important works. Open 10 a.m. to 4: 30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday; and closed on holidays. Call 532-8701.

ENTERTAINMENT
Hilton Hawaiian Village: Fireworks and show by the beach pool every Friday night at sunset.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Denver

2008-01-04T10:18:00.000-05:00

The following information is excerpted from
http://www.tripadvisor.com

Denver Botanic Gardens
http://www.botanicgardens.org
Free day on Tuesday during the warmer months

Colorado State Capitol
http://www.state.co.us
As you explore the building on your own, or join a free tour, enjoy the murals, stained glass portraits, wall hanging, and presidential portraits. During the legislative session, step into the Senate or House of Representatives gallery to watch state legislators in action.

Brown Palace Hotel

On Wednesday or Saturday, at 2:00 PM, head over to the historic Brown Palace Hotel downtown. Meet in the sitting area beside the entrance to the Ship Tavern inside the hotel, and enjoy learning some fascinating Denver history on this 45 - 60 minute free guided tour. It is located at 321 17th St., Denver, CO 80202

Dinosaur Ridge
Dinosaur Ridge, Morrison, Colorado

View prehistoric animal tracks, both large and small, which are available for viewing along this well-preserved site. Stop by the Visitor Center, and then take time to experience the self-guided tour which includes sixteen interpretative signs that describe fossil remains as well as other relevant features of the area.

Red Rocks Park
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, Morrison, Colorado

When you're done exploring the amphitheatre, don't miss the captivating Visitor Center, which opened in 2003. Watch a 10-minute film that describes the history of the park. View concert posters from the past 40 years, see instruments belonging to favorite musicians, or use the interactive computer terminals to find out who performed here or to remember a special concert.

Coors Brewery
Coors Brewery, Golden, Colorado

Take a tour at one of Colorado's best-known companies, Coors, and enjoy up to 3 free samples of their variety of beer products (if you are over 21), or complimentary soft drinks if you are younger or prefer something non-alcoholic.
Address: 1221 Ford Street and 13th Golden, CO 80401
Tel: 303 277 2337

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Bucks County, Pennsyslvania

2008-01-04T09:32:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This information is excerpted from http://www.experiencebuckscounty.com.

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.

Stop by the new Bucks County Visitors Center.

Spend the day at Philadelphia Park Racetrack

Hike at Tyler State Park

Visit the Peace Valley Nature Center

Sit among the wildflowers at Bowman's Hill Tower

Tour Byers' Choice Carolers' Museum

Visit the Silver Lake Nature Center

Enjoy the year-round themed festivals at Peddler's Village

Go fishing in the Delaware River

Birdwatch at Peace Valley Park

Drive along River Road

Visit Lily's Pad in Sellersville, PA the home of the Lizzie High Museum

Explore the Locktender's House on the Delaware Canal

Attend a Sunday night concert in Bristol

Browse the shelves at the David Library of the American Revolution

Take a walking tour of Historic Doylestown, Bristol, Newtown or Langhorne

Visit the Churchville Nature Center

Stop by the Washington Crossing Visitor Center and enjoy a movie about the history of the site.

Take a tour of Bucks County covered bridges

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Orlando

2008-01-03T17:04:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Orlando, Florida. The following information is excerpted from
http://wwworlandohotels4les.com

Lake Eola Park
This downtown Orlando centerpiece offers 43 acres for exploration and recreation, including fountains, a walking path, playgrounds, and swans to feed.

Harry P. Leu Gardens
Admission is free on Mondays. Guests can enjoy three miles of walkways, rose gardens, a butterfly garden, ancient oak trees, and more.

Ocala National Forest: A great place to experience natural Florida. The Florida Trail is a popular hike, where you can view hardwood forests, swamps, springs, and prairies. You can also canoe, picnic, hike and more.

Kelly Park: This park offers over 248 acres of outdoor fun and excitement! A crystal clear spring is the focus of this park, with water sports, including tubing, and rock climbing available!

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art: Home to the most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany. There is also an extensive American Pottery collection, as well as 19th and 20th century paintings collection. Admission is free on Fridays.

Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida: An informative center dedicated to remembering the millions if people that were lost during the rule of Nazi Germany.

Fort Christmas Historical Museum & Park: Visit the full size replica of Fort Christmas, including seven restored pioneer homes and showing pioneer life from the 1870s through the 1930s. Key themes are homesteading, cattle, citrus, hunting, fishing and trapping.

Disney’s Boardwalk: Stroll along Disney’s boardwalk for a charming step back in time, complete with water views and street entertainers.

The Town of Celebration: Visit this Disney-made town where you can admire the gorgeous houses, well-groomed yards and magic of Disney living. Depending on when you visit, you may see machine generated snow or falling leaves.

Old Town: On Saturday nights a free rock-n-roll concert and a parade of 300 vintage cars are offered.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Fort Lauderdale

2008-01-03T16:51:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Fort Lauderdale, Florida/ This information is excerpted from http://www.sunny.org

Stroll Hollywood's famed 2 ½ mile Broadwalk along the beach.

Snorkel (no boat needed) from shore along Lauderdale-By-The-Sea's three-tiered reef system and discover the many underwater treasures.

Watch a sunrise by the pier in Deerfield Beach.

People watch along Fort Lauderdale's beachfront promenade.

Catch the free Dolphins Training Camp each August in Davie.

Visit the African-American Research Library & Cultural Center
2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
(954) 625-2810
Exhibition hall, theater, and more than 85,000 books, documents, and artifacts that focus on the experiences of people of African descent. Mon-Thur 10am-9pm, Fri-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 1-5pm. Free.

Visit the Anne Kolb Nature Center
West Lake Park, 750 Sheridan St, Hollywood
(954) 926-2410
Experience this 1,500+ acre wetland mangrove forest habitat for wading birds and other native wildlife. Tidewater Tours offers educational boat tours. The Center also includes an Intracoastal fishing pier, five-story observation tower, nature, canoe and bicycle trails and environmental exhibit hall. Free.

Walk along the Hollywood Oceanfront Broadwalk
A1A east to the ocean between Sheridan St. and Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood
(954) 921-3404
2.2 mile long pedestrian promenade, combined with dramatic coastal views of Hollywood Beach. Newly reconstructed path for walkers, bicycle lane and jogging path. Outdoor cafes from organic farmers market and juice bar, to gourmet meals and ice cream cones.

Visit the Plantation Historical Museum
511 N. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation
(954) 797-2722
Plantation's 1st fire truck and memorabilia. Butterfly garden. Tue-Sat 9am-12pm and Sun 1-4pm. Free.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

2008-01-03T16:40:00.000-05:00

The following information is excerpted from http://www.reservepigeonforge.com

Cades Cove: There is an 11 mile one way scenic drive loop that winds around the valley, complete with wildlife, campgrounds, bike rentals, spectacular foliage in autumn, and facilities for horseback riding.

Sugarlands Visitor Center: A free 20-minute orientation motion picture provides an in-depth look at the Smokies and the enormous diversity of plant and animal life in the Park. Natural history exhibits include mounted specimens of park animals in recreations of their habitats and reproductions of journals kept by the first park naturalists are also on display. Ranger talks and slide shows are presented daily from spring through fall. Also visit Laurel Falls, a beautiful waterfall located off Little Rover Road near the Sugarlands Center.

Mills Park: Located in Gatlinburg, this park’s facilities include a softball field, horseshoe pits, playground, tennis courts, football field and basketball court. It’s a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors

Mynatt Park: A beautiful park complete with picnic area by the river, bbq grills, and recreation opportunities such as baseball and basketball

Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Craft Community: The largest group of independent artisans in North America. This historic 8-mile loop has been designated a Tennessee Heritage Arts & Crafts Trail. Established in 1937, these artisans create unique and treasured pieces.

Newfound Gap Road: The 33-mile drive from Gatlinburg to Cherokee North Carolina along Newfound Gap Road is the only route that completely traverses the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The drive offers a unique opportunity to enjoy an abbreviated experience of everything the Park has to offer, without necessarily trekking far from your automobile.

Hiking: Hike on any of the more than 800 miles of trails through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There are over fifty trails available to hike.

Douglas Lake: Douglas Lake extends its 33,000 lake acres and 513 miles of shoreline to the rolling hills of the Great Smoky Mountains, attracting nearly 2 million visitors each year. Activities at Douglas Lake include fishing, boating, rafting, swimming, camping, and bird watching.

Festivals: Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are a haven for festivals. Many of these, such as the Bloomin’ Barbeque & Bluegrass Festival, have free admission and concerts.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in London

2008-01-03T16:16:00.000-05:00

excerpted from http://www.londontourist.org

Free Concerts
There are of free concerts, open air films etc. along the river, at the National Theatre, Coin Street and near Tower Bridge by the 'Beehive' office of the London Council. There is a late cafe/bar/lounge at the National Theatre until 0100. Take a stroll from the Wheel to Tower bridge and pick up the brochures - the area is buzzing at night, especially on the far side of Tower Bridge.

Museums
Most of the Big museums are free - that includes the Science, Natural History and Imperial War Museums, The British Museum, The John Soane Museum Museum of London. The Department of Culture has invested millions - raised by gambling tax and other taxes, to keep Britain's museums free - don't miss out! Places that do charge usually have a free period or day eg. The Old Naval College in Greenwich is free on Sundays after 15:30. See our museums page for full details.

Galleries
Virtually all are free, including the National Gallery, Both the Tate galleries. Those that do make an admission charge usually have a free day (eg The Courtauld), or a free period (the Guildhall, from 15:30).

Houses of Parliament
Houses of Parliament have free admission when the house is sitting. You queue up outside but you won't get into Commons much before 16:30 - better to go later in the evening when the queues have gone down.

Theatre
From the street entertainers in Covent Garden (under the porch of the Actors' Church where Britain's first Punch & Judy show was performed) to the innumerable festivals, there's lots going on. Free foyer events at the South Bank Centre and Barbican are usually of the highest standard.

TV Shows
The BBC needs audiences for its shows - tickets are available for recordings of TV programmes at TV Centre, in White City and for radio shows at various venues. Email them with a list of dates and an address to send tickets to (this is pot luck) if you're booking way ahead tv.ticket.unit@bbc.co.uk or radio.ticket.unit@bbc.co.uk or fax them on 0208 576 8802. You can also look what's available and book online, for free BBC Symphony orchestra concerts, TV shows etc etc HERE. That said it has happened that the BBC has put adverts in the Job Centres (for unemployed people seeking work) offering money to attend some shows - mainly talk shows. Tickets for commercial productions (including those that end up on the BBC can be got from freetix@standingroom.com or tel: 8870 0111. You can also visit TV Recordings.com which allows you to book AND print free tickets for TV shows online. If tickets are available you can print them off at any time and just head off for the show, even on the day of the record. You know if you have got your tickets instantly...no waiting around to see if they turn up in the post. Some good comedy shows available.

Music
The BBCSO hold free concerts at the BBC Maida Vale studios -tickets for which can be obtained by calling BBC Audience Services on 020 8576 1227

The Royal Academy of Music runs a 'Free on Friday' programme of concerts with 'the performers of the future' ie: their students under the baton of some top conductors (viz: Sir Colin Davis, Sir Charles Mackerras and Barry Wordsworth). They start at 13:05 in the college on Marylebone Road, by Baker Street Tube. For details visit their Website.

The Evening Standard's 'free' entertainment guide 'Hot Tickets' has good listings of free Jazz concerts: state subsidies pay for top acts to appear at the Barbican (which has a redoubtable reputation as a Jazz venue anyway) and at the South Bank Centre - these and other free shows get a listing on the Jazz page. After 8pm on a Thursday you can pick up free copies of Hot Tickets from the closed-up vendors stalls - there are piles and piles of them lying in the street - try Charing Cross, London Bridge or Liverpool St Station, up Charing Cross Road - mind you the Evening Standard only costs 30 pence....
A good site with listings of free/nearly free events and things to do in London is The London free list

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to do on a Los Angeles Vacation

2008-01-03T15:32:00.000-05:00

Attend a live taping of your favorite TV show. Go to tvtix.com tvtickets.com to get free tickets.

The following is excerpted from http://www.frommers.com
Watch One of Your Favorite TV Sitcoms Being Taped (Go to tvtix.com tvtickets.com to get free tickets.)

Go to the Getty Center: one of L.A.'s best attractions is absolutely free

Cruise Mulholland Drive: Cruise past the homes with million-dollar views, and then pull over at the public viewing pullouts to see the city.

Take Advantage of Free Admission Days to L.A.'s Museums: Almost all of L.A.'s art galleries and museums are open free to the public 1 day of the week or month (or both), and several never charge admission.

Take in an Evening Jazz Performance: L.A.'s two major art museums offer free jazz concerts every Thursday and Friday evening.

See a Hollywood Bowl Rehearsal: Few people know about the Bowl's morning rehearsals, which are open to the public and absolutely free.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Las Vegas

2008-01-03T12:58:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do in Las Vegas. This following information is excerpted from http://www.vegasforlocals.com

SILVERTON AZURE UNDERWATER SHOW
Brand new underwater fantasy show. Azure is a free show. Show times are Wednesday through Friday: 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, 9pm and 10pm; Saturday: 4pm, 5pm, 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, 9pm, 10pm and 11pm; Sunday: 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm. Dark Monday
and Tuesday.

Silverton Hotel & Casino
3333 Blue Diamond Road
Las Vegas, NV 89139
(702) 263-7777

CBS TELEVISION CITY LAS VEGAS
Located inside the MGM Grand hotel-casino, the CBS Television City
Research Center gives visitors the chance to be part of the network's
decision-making by viewing and rating pilots (shows that haven't aired yet)
and other television programs they need input on.

There is no charge, and the hours of operation are from 10 am until
screenings wrap for the day - usually around 10 p.m. No reservations are needed since screenings are ongoing. Just go to the research center, located near the pool at the end of the Studio Walk, after picking up your tickets either in front of the center or at the entrance to MGM
Grand's parking garage.

Television City also offers incentives for helping them out, and everyone has
a chance to win a home-theater system worth over $9,000 by joining
Television City's entertainment panel, which will send items for review -- such
as commercials and pilot programs -- to participants' homes. Hours: Daily 10 am until about 10 pm

MGM Grand Hotel Casino
3799 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 891-1111

FREE CIRCUS ACTS AT CIRCUS CIRCUS LAS VEGAS
Different acts perform each half hour from 11 a.m. to midnight daily.

Circus Circus Hotel and Casino
2880 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 734-0410

FREE CLOWN SHOW AT CIRCUS CIRCUS LAS VEGAS
Free clown shows are held daily at Circus Circus Hotel & Casino on the clown
stage located inside the Adventuredome Theme Park. Shows are held daily at noon, 1 pm, 3 pm and 4 pm. Additional shows are held on Friday and Saturday at 6 pm, 7 pm, 8 pm and 9 pm.

Circus Circus Hotel and Casino
2880 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 734-0410

DUELING PIANOS AT HARRAH'S LAS VEGAS
Performing nightly in the "Piano Bar" at Harrah's Las Vegas. You can see the whole show for free by standing just outside of the bar. 9 pm - 2 am, and Sun-Thur 9 pm - 3 am Fri-Sat

MIRACLE MILE SHOPS ENTERTAINMENT
The Miracle Mile Shops at the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino offers
free variety acts on the main stage in front of the V Theater.
Appropriate for all ages, magicians, acrobats, aerialists and others will
dazzle you. Show times are Friday - Monday quarter after each hour 1:
15 - 7:15pm.

HAWAIIAN MARKETPLACE LAS VEGAS FREE BIRD SHOW
The Birdman of Las Vegas Joe Krathwohl
Hours: 1 & 3 Friday - Sunday.
Hawaiian Marketplace
3743 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 795-2247

FREE FASHION SHOWS AT FASHION SHOW MALL
Showtimes: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 12 - 4 pm on the hour
Fashion Show Mall
3200 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 369-0704

CAESARS PALACE FALL OF ATLANTIS SHOW
The Fall of Atlantis fountain show is located near the Race for Atlantis,
There is also a salt water aquarium where you can watch as a diver feeds the tropical puffers, flounder, sharks and the rest of the aquarium's inhabitants each day at 1:15 and 5:15 pm. In addition, tours of the aquarium's facilities are
offered Monday through Friday at 3:15 pm.

On the west end of the mall is the Festival Fountain show where visitors are
entertained by the Greek gods Bacchus, Venus, Apollo and Plutus in
animatronic form, who hold the audience spellbound throughout with a laser,
water and light show. Hours: Sun – Thr, 10 am – 11 pm; Fri – Sat, 10 am – Midnight

Caesars Palace
3570 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 731-7110

FLAIR BARTENDER SHOWS IN LAS VEGAS
See flair bartender shows at:

* Carnival Court at Harrah's Hotel & Casino
* Ghost Bar at The Palms Hotel & Casino
* Kahunaville at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino
* Studio 54 at the MGM Hotel & Casino
* Voodoo Lounge at the Rio Hotel & Casino

BELLAGIO FOUNTAINS WATER SHOW
Showtimes:
Monday - Friday
3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - show every 1/2 hour
8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. - show every 15 minutes

Saturday & Sunday
12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - show every 1/2 hour
8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. - show every 15 minutes

*Schedule may vary.
**Shows are subject to cancellation due to high winds

Bellagio Hotel and Casino
3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 693-7111

FREMONT STREET CONCERTS & EVENTS
Fremont Street Downtown Las Vegas
The Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas typically hosts
over a dozen free concerts, parties and special events every month on the First
and Third Street stages along the pedestrian promenade. For the current concert schedule go to www.vegasexperience.com. Admission: FREE

Downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101

FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE LAS VEGAS
Five city blocks are covered with a canopy of over 2 million lights enhanced
by 550,000 watts of sound and special effects. Presented each night at dusk. Admission is FREE. Hours: 8:30 pm, 9, 10, 11 pm and Midnight

Downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101

FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE ENTERTAINMENT
Strolling entertainers perform throughout the day and evening. Admission: FREE

Downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101

HARBOR RAINSTORM
Harbor Rainstorm Miracle Mile Shops Planet Hollywood Las Vegas
Experience the feeling of being in a North African Harbor when suddenly, a
rainstorm breaks out! You won't even need to run for cover as the rain pours
and thunder booms arounds you. Storms occur every hour on the hour, Monday through - Thursday, and every half hour Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Miracle Mile Shops
Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino
3667 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 785-5555

HAWAIIAN MARKETPLACE ISLAND PERFORMERS
Free performances, which start at the top of the hour, feature Island
musicians, hula dancers, lei makers, Samoan fire-knife dancers, and
animatronic birds. Hours: 11:00 am to 10:30 pm daily.

Hawaiian Marketplace
3743 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 795-2247

BALLY'S LAS VEGAS LIGHT, WATER & SOUND SHOW
Shows are every 20 minutes nightly after dusk.

Bally's Hotel & Casino
3645 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 739-4111

FREE LAS VEGAS MAGIC SHOWS
FREE MAGIC SHOWS at the "Houdini's Magic Shops" around town.
Locations include:

* Circus Circus Hotel & Casino
* Forum Shops At Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino
* MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
* Miracle Mile Shops at the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino
* New York New York hotel & Casino
* Venetian Hotel & Casino Grand Canal Shoppes

HARRAH'S LAS VEGAS CARNAVAL COURT
Live bands take the Carnaval Court stage daily, performing a wide range of music like pop, jazz, and beach music.
Hours: Sun - Thr, 12 pm - 1 am; Fri - Sat, 12 pm - 3 am

Harrah's Casino Hotel
3475 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 369-5000

REAL ACTION STUNT STAGE FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE
Located at the 1st Street intersection near the Golden Nugget and Binion’s, the stage features live action performances nightly including the Russian Bar, cube balancing
and a flying silk act. Admission: FREE

Fremont Street Experience
Downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101

MASQUERADE SHOW IN THE SKY AT RIO LAS VEGAS
The Show in the Sky performs seven times daily in the Rio's Masquerade
Village, featuring state-of-the-art floats that suspend from the ceiling and parade
above the casino floor. Seven FREE performances daily at 3 p.m., 4 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. Appropriate for all ages!

Rio Suite Hotel and Casino
3700 Flamingo Road
Las vegas, NV 89103
(702) 252-7777

THE SIRENS OF TI
Experience music and dance with FREE nightly performances at 5:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:30 pm, and 10:30 pm in Sirens' Cove at the front entrance of Treasure Island Hotel and Casino.

Treasure Island Casino
3300 Las Vegas Blvd S
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 894-7111

STREET PERFORMERS AT GRAND CANAL SHOPPES
Within Saint Mark's Square, at the Venetian Hotel & Casino's Grand Canal
Shoppes, a variety of performing artists (magicians, puppeteers, living statutes,
stilt walkers - and other fabulous entertainers) present free performances throughout the day.

3355 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109

TEST AMERICA PREVIEW STUDIOS
Preview a new TV show or motion picture, try out a new slot machine for free, or participate in a product taste test. Most surveys take about 45 minutes, and participants are paid for their time and honest opinions. Open daily 11am – 9 pm.

3 Locations:

Desert Passage Mall at the Aladdin, Suite H-82
3667 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109

Fashion Show Mall, Suite 1830
3200 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 369-2657

The Venetian Grand Canale Shoppes, Suite 2500
3355 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 732-2733

MIRAGE VOLCANO ERUPTION
See the volcano erupt every fifteen minutes from 7:00 p.m. to midnight.
Spring - 7 pm to 12 am, every 15 minutes
Summer/Fall - 8 pm to 12 am, every 15 minutes
Winter - 6 PM to 12 am, every 15 minutes

The Mirage
3400 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 791-7111

IMPERIAL PALACE AUTO COLLECTION
Antique, classic, muscle and special interest
automobiles on display on the fifth floor of the self-parking garage.

Open daily from 9:30 am to 9:30 pm

For FREE ADMISSION, go to and print out the required coupon. Otherwise: General admission is $6.95 for adults and $5.95 for seniors. Must be 18 years or older or accompanied by an adult to enter museum.

Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino
3535 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 731-3311

MANDALAY BAY AQUARIUM
The aquarium is in the lobby of the Mandalay Bay Hotel.
Open 24 hours

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
3950 Las Vegas Blvd., S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 632-7777

HOWARD W. CANNON AVIATION MUSEUM
This museum is located in McCarran International Airport, was recently renamed in honor of retired U.S. The Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum
focuses on the history of commercial and general aviation, and is open
24 hours a day. The Museum's main exhibit is located above baggage
claim on level two, with an additional exhibit in the general and
corporate aviation terminal operated by Signature Flight Support.
Open 24 hours

Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum
McCarran International Airport
5757 Wayne Newton Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 455-7968

BELLAGIO BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is located just beyond Bellagio's lobby.
The lobby is open 24 hours

Bellagio Hotel and Casino
3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 693-7111

BELLAGIO CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN
At the Jean-Phillippe Patisserie in the Bellagio Hotel, you can see a 27-foot
tall fountain of cascading chocolate. Located inside the Spa Tower near the Bellagio conservatory. Open daily from 7 am - 11 pm

Bellagio Hotel and Casino
3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 693-8788

MIRAGE LAS VEGAS CORAL REEF AQUARIUM
The 20,000-gallon saltwater aquarium located behind the Front
Deskis home to angelfish, puffer fish, tangs, sharks and other exotic sea creatures.
Open 24 hours

The Mirage
3400 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 791-7111

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in New York

2008-01-03T12:39:00.000-05:00

excerpted from http://www.nytix.com

Get free audience tickets to a New York TV show

Find out who's buried in Grant's Tomb National Monument, and see exhibitions focusing on the Civil War and the life of General Ulysses S. Grant (212-666-1640)

Visit the New York Stock Exchange 212-656-5167

Take advantage of free or "pay what you wish" nights at the city's finest museums, including:
The Whitney Museum of American Art (Friday nights free, 212-570-3676)
The Solomon R. Guggenheim (Fridays 5-8 pay what you wish, 212-423-3500)
The Museum of American Folk Art, free (212-977-7170)
The Cooper-Hewitt National Museum of Design, Tuesday evenings free (212-860-6868)
The Steuben Gallery, free (212-752-1441)
Visit the New York Public Library (212-869-8084), and enjoy free concerts, outdoor movies and other special events in adjacent Bryant Park (212-983-4142).

Take a self-guided tour of majestic Rockefeller Center (free, pick up maps in the main lobby of 30 Rockefeller Center, 212-698-2950), where you can also enjoy the summer gardens or ice skating in winter in the shadow of Manhattan's most magnificent skyscrapers (skate rentals available, 212-757-5730).

Stroll the three-mile boardwalk at Coney Island in Brooklyn - free

Walk one or all four self-guided historic walking Heritage Trails, starting at the Heritage Trails Visitor and Information Center at the Federal Hall National Memorial (212-767-0637).

Explore the greenhouses and gardens of Wave Hill, a 28-acre former estate overlooking the Hudson River in the Bronx (free during the week and Saturdays before noon)

Learn about New York's historic neighborhoods on a free tour sponsored by the Municipal Arts Society (212-439-1049).

Catch the breeze even in August on the Battery Park Esplanade, complete with spectacular views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. In nearby Hudson River Park, the Battery Park City Authority presents a "Sounds at Sunset" summer series of poetry readings, cabaret and classical music (212-416-5328).

Stop and smell the roses at The Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and learn about botany and garden lore at special exhibitions in the conservatory (718-622-4433).

Enjoy the best classical music, drama, opera, dance and jazz New York has to offer--including the New York Philharmonic, City Opera, Shakespeare in the Park, and much more--at free warm-weather concerts in the city parks (information 212-360-3444).

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Chicago with Children

2008-01-03T10:27:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Chicago with children. This information is excerpted from Parent Zone.

All photos are copyrighted by C. Lee - all rights reserved. Contact bargainhunterhotline@gmail.com for permission to reproduce.

Millenium Park
Millenium Park Outdoor Skating Rink
Seasonal outdoor rink in the heart of Millenium Park. Open Nov - March when the weather cooperates. Free to enter, $7 to rent skates. Michigan Ave at Washington St. Chicago, IL 60606, 312.742.1168

Navy Pier
Chicago's 50-acre urban playground overlooking Lake Michigan boasts parks, gardens, the Chicago Children's Museum, the Smith Museum of Stained Glass, a seasonal ice rink, a musical carousel, a 15-story Ferris wheel, the outdoor Skyline Stage showcasing live music, dance and theatre, an I-Max theater, restaurants galore and fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer. The Pier is free; parking is not and neither are most events and attractions. Visit Website: http://www.navypier.com

Skokie North Shore Sculpture Park
Seventy pieces of sculpture are located in the park for the public to enjoy. The park is a collaboration between private citizens and the village of Skokie, managers of the property owned by the Water Reclamation District of Chicago along the North Branch of the Chicago River. Visit the website for the self-guided tour booklet and take a walk. Visit Website: http://www.sculpturepark.org/

Stratford Square Mall
Great kid friendly spot- especially in the winter months as they offer two indoor play areas for children- Kids' Kartowne & Kids' Playtowne. Visit Website: http://www.stratfordsquaremall.com

Garfield Park Conservatory
Free conservatory on the city's West side. This makes a wonderful escape into natural beauty from the cold in the winter and a fantastic foray into greenery in the summer. They have a special children's garden for the little ones to romp in as well as special family activities on weekends and thursday evenings. They also offer drop-in classes for children. Look for weekly summer market and other special events like their famous chocolate fest every February. Note special events may require an entrance fee. Visit Website: http://www.garfield-conservatory.org/

Lincoln Park Conservatory
One of two of the city's free conservatories, the Lincoln Park Conservatory is the sometimes overlooked smaller sibling. But this park has a lot to offer. Located in the heart of Lincoln Park it is close to many other local attractions such as the lakefront and the Lincoln Park Zoo. It also hosts many wonderful events of its own including music, theater, educational activities and cinematic performances. And of course, it is home to beautiful plants and gardens. See website for more information. Visit Website:
http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/parks.detail/objec

Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is free to the public 365 days a year. You and your family can enjoy fun-filled special events, such as "Jammin at the Zoo," all summer long. They also have a variety of classes for children and parent/children. See their website or our calendar of events for more information. Visit Website: http://www.lpzoo.org

Chicago History Museum
Come and enjoy this wonderful museum of Chicago's history- free!- Every Monday. Plus, everyday is free for children under 12

KidOOdles
Skokie Public Library partners up with Old Orchard mall to bring this fun family event the first Saturday of each month in the food court. Children 6 and under with an adult are invited to participate in story-telling, arts and crafts and more all with a seasonal theme! Check out their website or call the mall or the Skokie Public Library (847.673.7774) for more information on this month's theme and project.

Kraft Family Sundays
Kraft Family Sundays @ The National Museum of Mexican Art: Enjoy this free family program every Sunday year-round at the NMMA. Programs and tours are hands-on and thematically related to the museum's current exhibits. 4/4/2007 - 4/4/2008 Reservations are required, please call beforehand to inquire about times and availability.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in New York

2008-01-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

excerpted from http://www.nycvisit.com

Tours & More

Alliance for Downtown New York leads a free 90-minute walking tour that includes Wall Street every Thursday and Saturday at noon. Meet at the front steps of the U.S. Custom House (One Bowling Green); no reservations are necessary. For information on the tours, call 212/606-4064.

Central Park Conservancy Tours allow visitors to discover the park's history, ecology and design on free, volunteer-led walking tours that have themes such as "Waterways and Vistas" and "A Road Once Traveled."

Grand Central Partnership leads a tour year round of the Grand Central area, exploring architecture and social history, on Fridays at 12:30pm. Meet at Altria on the southwest corner of 42nd Street and Park Avenue. Reservations are not necessary. The Partnership also has a free lunchtime summer concert series.

The New York Road Runners Club leads free walks through Central Park for people 60 and over every Tuesday and Thursday at 10am. Tours depart from the NYRRC kiosk inside Central Park at East 90th Street and Fifth Avenue.

The Union Square Partnership conducts a free 90-minute tour each Saturday of historic and beautiful Union Square, home to New York City's premiere farmer's market and the famous equestrian statue of George Washington. Meet at 2pm by the Lincoln statue near the Pavilion building on the 16th Street transverse of Union Square Park. For more information call 212/460-1204.

The Times Square Alliance leads "Times Square Expose", a one-and-a-half hour tour of Times Square Fridays at noon. Meet at the Times Square Visitor Information Center: Seventh Avenue between 46th and 47th Streets.
Museums/Cultural Institutions

Enjoy toy boats and soldiers, trophies, old Monopoly games, paintings and more at the Forbes Magazine Galleries (62 Fifth Avenue at 12th Street, 212/206-5548). The galleries are open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10am–4pm.

The Hispanic Society of America is a beautiful, free museum and reference library housing the most extensive collection of Hispanic art and literature outside of Spain and Latin America. Works on display include those by Goya, El Greco and Velasquez. Visitors may also peruse photographs, textiles and decorative arts.

New York Unearthed is the only museum dedicated to New York's archaeological heritage. Visitors can piece together 6,000 years of New York history through dioramas and archaeological artifacts. Free at all times. Located at 17 State Street (opposite Battery Park). Open Monday–Friday, 12 noon–5pm.

Explore Native American arts, artifacts, film and photography at the National Museum of the American Indian. Free at all times. One Bowling Green, 212/514-3700.

The monumental Beaux Arts New York Public Library has varied special exhibitions. Free at all times.

The free Queens Botanical Garden is set on 39 glorious acres of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. For general information, call 718/886-3800.

An outdoor museum on the East River in Long Island City, Queens, the Socrates Sculpture Park has giant sculptures and a waterfront view of Manhattan. Free at all times. Open 365 days a year from 10am to sunset. 718/956-1819.
Free/Pay What You Wish During Certain Times

Enjoy folk paintings, furniture, pottery, quilts and other decorative arts from the 18th century to the present at the American Folk Art Museum which is free 5:30–7:30pm on Fridays.

The Bronx Zoo is pay-what-you-wish Wednesday.
Explore the beauty of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden free all day Tuesday and Saturday 10am–noon.

The Brooklyn Museum of Art is free 5–11pm the first Saturday of every month. Explore 4,000 years of Jewish history at The Jewish Museum which is free Saturday 11:00am–5:45pm.

The Museum of Arts and Design is pay-what-you-wish Thursday 6–8pm.

The New York Botanical Garden is free all day Wednesday and Saturday 10am–noon.

From Labor Day through Memorial Day, the New York Hall of Science offers free admission on Fridays 2pm–5pm and Sundays 10am–11am.

The Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is pay-what-you-wish Friday 5:45pm until closing (with the last ticket issued at 7:15pm).

The regular garden at the Staten Island Botanical Garden is open from dawn until dusk at no charge, though its Chinese Scholar's Garden has an admission fee.

Enjoy spectacular Hudson River views from Wave Hill, the acclaimed public garden and cultural institution overlooking the Hudson and Palisades, which is free all day Tuesday and Saturday mornings 9am–noon year round. Additionally, from December through February, admission to Wave Hill is free at all times.

The Whitney Museum of American Art is pay-what-you-wish admission Fridays 6–9pm.

Many museums have tours of their exhibits, live music, movies and lectures that are free with suggested museum admission. Contact the museums directly for updated schedules. A sampling: part of the American Museum of Natural History, the stunning Rose Center for Earth and Space hosts "Starry Nights", a fun-filled evening of jazz, tapas, and drinks on the first Friday of every month (6–8:45pm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers many gallery talks and films that are free with suggested admission.

Attractions

The interactive 6,200-square-foot SoHo Scholastic Store is fun for kids of all ages. Free Saturday events include author readings and character visits.

The world’s only NBA Store, located on Fifth Avenue and 52nd Street, offers numerous free, live events year round including NBA and WNBA player appearances and presents the NBA Store Concert Series featuring some of today's hottest artists. The 35,000-foot store also features a half-court with regulation-size basketball hoop where fans of all ages can test out their skills at any time.

Visit the Sony Wonder Technology Lab, where high-tech, interactive exhibits abound.

Check out the famous buildings and architecture. Some notable buildings to seek out: Chrysler Building (405 Lexington Avenue), Citigroup Center (153 East 53rd Street), Lipstick Building (885 Third Avenue), Empire State Building (350 Fifth Avenue, 212/736-3100), Grand Central Terminal (42nd Street and Park Avenue) Rockefeller Center (47th–51st Streets and 5th–6th Avenues, 212/332-6868), Seagram Building (375 Park Avenue), Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum (1071 Fifth Avenue, 212/423-3500).

The city also has many magnificent places of worship that are architectural marvels. Explore the biblical garden and children's sculpture garden, as well as the church itself at Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine (1047 Amsterdam Avenue). Also uptown, the breathtaking and enormous Riverside Church has the world's highest (400 feet) carillion tower. In Midtown, take in the beauty of the Gothic St. Patrick's Cathedral (Fifth Avenue and 50th Street).
Events

Many free events happen outside in warm weather, particularly in the parks. With NYC as America's greenest city, there's plenty of space to lay down a lawn chair and soak in some culture along with the sun.

Revel in the best classical music, jazz, drama, opera and dance that New York has to offer at free warm-weather performances in the city parks by the New York Philharmonic, The Metropolitan Opera, Shakespeare in the Park and many more (City of New York Parks and Recreation Special Events Phone Line, 888/NYPARKS). Central Park Summerstage (212/360-2777) holds wonderful performances of all kinds in Central Park June through August.

Looking for fun and inexpensive entertainment? You can see live blues for free at Lucille's Grill, a restaurant inside BB King Blues Club & Grill in Times Square.

Can't decide which Broadway show to see? Check out Broadway on Broadway (888/BROADWAY), a free concert in the beginning of September featuring musical numbers from nearly all of the current Broadway shows as well as previews of upcoming shows.

Picturesque Bryant Park hosts free concerts, outdoor movies and other special events in warm weather.

Come out for the Museum Mile Festival, during which museums on this stretch, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Slomon R. Guggenheim Museum, are open free 6 to 9pm, takes place the second Tuesday in June along Fifth Avenue from 82nd to 104th Streets. These blocks on Fifth Avenue are closed to traffic so that musical performers and other entertainers may take over.

The South Street Seaport hosts many free events, including outdoor concert and performances.

Special indoor and outdoor events take place downtown, south of Chambers Street, throughout the year; many are free. From concerts to exhibits, tours to film screenings, the Alliance for Downtown New York is a great source for downtown events and information.
Views

Walk across the footpath on the famous Brooklyn Bridge for a fantastic view of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn, and then walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

Take a cruise on the free Staten Island Ferry, which goes between Manhattan and Staten Island, and see the lower Manhattan skyline, harbor and Statue of Liberty.

In the shadow of the spectacular Brooklyn Bridge, the South Street Seaport encompasses a cobblestoned historic district, a museum, harbor sails aboard 19th-century schooners and more than 100 shops, cafes and restaurants.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.

Get Free Tickets to New York TV Show Tapings

2008-01-02T22:30:00.000-05:00

Excerpted from About.Com: New York City Travel

The View
Request The View tickets online. Ticket requests from outside NY, NJ, PA and CT may request a specific date. There is typically a 9 month wait for tickets, so take that into consideration when requesting tickets. You must request tickets three months in advance. Dates for ticket requests from NY, NJ, PA and CT will be assigned by ABC.

Getting Stand-by "The View" Tickets: Same-day tickets are available. From 8:30-10 a.m., pick up a number at the audience entrance(320 W. 66th Street). Return to the standby line at 10:20 a.m. Standby audience will be used in numerical order as distributed earlier, and can't be determined before 10:20 a.m.

The Jon Stewart Show
Request Daily Show with Jon Stewart tickets online or call (212) 586-2477 to find out if there are any cancellations available for that week's tapings. The listing is updated on Fridays at 11:30 a.m.

Late Show with David Letterman
Request Late Show with David Letterman tickets online. Those selected for tickets will receive a phone call and be asked to answer a Letterman-related trivia question in order to receive tickets. You can also request tickets in person for shows up to one month in advance at the Ed Sullivan Theatre at 1697 Broadway (between 53rd & 54th Streets). Ticket requests will be accepted Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Do not line up for tickets before 9 a.m.
You may be lucky enough to get standy tickets if you call (212) 247-6497 starting at 11:00 a.m. on the day of the show you would like to attend. You will be asked to answer a David Letterman trivia question, and if you answer it correctly, you'll be asked to arrive at the theater approximately an hour before taping. Stand-by tickets do not guarantee admission to the show.

Good Morning America
Request Good Morning America tickets online.

Late Night with Conan O'Brien
Request Late Night with Conan O'Brien tickets by calling 212-664-3056. There is a four-ticket limit per request and frequently a six-month wait for tickets. For stand-by tickets, stop by the NBC Experience Store on 49th between 5th and 6th Avenues. They begin distributing one ticket per person at 9 a.m. for daily tapings. Stand-by tickets for Late Night with Conan O'Brien do not guarantee admission. You must be at least 16 to attend the Late Night with Conan O'Brien show. Late Night with Conan O'Brien typically tapes on Tuesday through Friday.

Saturday Night Live
Every August, you can submit your request for Saturday Night Live Tickets via email. Those who are selected for tickets will recieve an email confirmation and two tickets to either a live taping or a dress rehearsal. For stand-by tickets, arrive by 7 a.m. on the morning of the taping under the "NBC Studios" marquee on the 50th St. side of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Standby tickets are available for either the 8 pm dress rehearsal or the 11:30 pm live show. Only one ticket will be issued per person. Please note that a stand-by ticket does not guarantee admission. You must be at least 16 to attend the Saturday Night Live show.

Live! With Regis and Kelly
Send your postcard (four tickets max) at least a full year in advance to Live! Tickets, Ansonia Station, P.O. Box 230777, New York, NY 10023-0777 (tel. 212/456-3054. Or you might want to try standby by doing the following: Arrive at the studio no later than 7 a.m. and request a standby number. Standby tickets are handed out on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier you arrive, the better. You might also have a chance at last-minute tickets by calling tel. 212/456-2410 or 212/456-3055, but this less likely than standby.

Emeril Live:
Emeril Live tickets are available yearly by lottery. The "Emeril Live" lottery will be announced in the Food Network Newsletter and also announced on the Food Network Website.

Free Things to Do on Vacation in Seattle

2008-01-02T21:50:00.000-05:00

Find free things to do on vacation in Seattle. The following information is excerpted from National Geographic Traveler.
Art/Music

Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museam in downtown Seattle is free each first Thursday. It has a collection of contemporary and modernist works and Native American, African, Asian, and Australian indigenous art.

Volunteer Park
In Volunteer Park on Capitol Hill, the Seattle Asian Art Museum opens its doors free of charge each first Thursday and Saturday. Its collection features thousands of paintings, pottery, sculptures, and textiles from China, Japan, India, Korea, and more.

Frye Art Museum
Explore the Frye Art Museum's rotating selection of its large collection of 19th and 20th century German, French, and American paintings and sculptures, including a collection of paintings by Munich-based artists acquired by Charles Frye in the late 19th century. Admission is always free and complimentary tours are available Wednesday through Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Experience Music Project
Science Fiction Museum
Hall of Fame
The Experience Music Project and Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame offer free admission from 5 to 8 p.m. each first Thursday.

Bellevue Arts Museum
Bellevue Arts Museum is free first Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Olympic Sculpture Park
The Seattle Art Museum's new waterfront Olympic Sculpture Park is a nine-acre (3.6-hectare) industrial-site-turned-green space. Dotted with contemporary works of art by artists such as Richard Serra, Alexander Calder, and Mark di Suvero, the park is set against a spectacular backdrop of Puget Sound and the Cascade Range with a 2,200-foot (671-meter) pedestrian path that leads to a beach. Open daily, free of charge.

Seattle Symphony
Immerse yourself in the huge sound of the Seattle Symphony's 26-foot (eight-meter) tall, 4,490-pipe Watjen concert organ in Benaroya Hall at one of the symphony's free recitals, held Mondays at 12:30 p.m. on a bimonthly basis. Or take a public tour of Benaroya Hall every Tuesday and Friday (and following Watjen concert organ recitals) at noon and 1 p.m.

Seattle Asian Art Museum
On the first Thursday and Saturday of each month, the Seattle Asian Art Museum opens its doors for free. Its collection features thousands of paintings, pottery, and textiles from Southeast Asia.

Lunchtime Concert
Catch a lunchtime concert at City Hall every first and third Thursday. The series' Seattle-area performers range in genre from world music to big bands, folk, and jazz.

In July and August over the noon hour, join the downtown office lunch crowd for free public concerts—from classical to rock and jazz—in area parks and plazas.

Attractions

Pike Place Market
Visit Pike Place Market. Join the crowd gathered in front of rowdy fishmongers at 100-year-old Pike Place Market.

Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Visit the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks' public viewing window, cheer for salmon as they climb up the fish ladder and watch pleasure boats pass through the locks. Join a free, guided tour March through November.

Seattle Center
Visit Seattle Center, site of the 1962 World's Fair and now home to the city's top attractions, including the Space Needle, Seattle Opera, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Intiman Theatre, Children's Museum, Children's Theater, Fun Forest Amusement Park, Pacific Science Center, and Experience Music Project.

Museum of Flight
Visit Seattle's Museum of Flight, free from 5 to 9 p.m. the first Thursday of the month.

One-Eyed Stone Troll
Check out the one-eyed stone troll who lurks beneath the George Washington Memorial Bridge (known by locals as the Aurora Bridge) at N. 36th Street in Fremont.

Waterfall Garden Park
Visit Waterfall Garden Park in historic Pioneer Square at S. Main St. and Second Ave. S,

Culture

University of Washington
Explore the University of Washington with free 90-minute campus tours led by UW undergrads or on a self-guided tour. See Husky Stadium, Gothic buildings, the Drumheller Fountain, and come springtime, cherry trees blooming around campus.

Museum of History and Industry
Visit the Museum of History and Industry. First Thursdays are free and have extended hours (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.).

Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
Visit the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, free first Thursdays and with extended hours (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.). The museum is considered the Northwest's premier repository of cultural and natural history artifacts, with highlights like a resident spider expert and a Northwest Coast totem pole at the entrance.

Coast Guard Museum
Visit the free Coast Guard Museum on Pier 36.

Northwest Folklife Festival
Celebrate ethnic and folk traditions with arts, crafts, music, food, and performers at the free annual Northwest Folklife Festival held Memorial Day weekend on the grounds of the Seattle Center.

Children

Freeway Park
Freeway Park, a five-acre (two-hectare) city park that sits in downtown Seattle over Interstate 5, has great views of downtown buildings, a walking loop, free Wi-Fi, and free music and theater performances in the summer.

KidsQuest Children's Museum
The interactive KidsQuest Children's Museum is free from 5 to 8 p.m. Fridays in nearby Bellevue's Factoria Mall. Climb the giant indoor tree house to enjoy a tea party or tinker with tools in the museum's hands-on garage.

University of Washington Botanic Gardens
The University of Washington Botanic Gardens' Elisabeth C. Miller Library offers free family programs Saturday mornings at 10 a.m., geared for children ages 2-8, with stories and activities that celebrate little tykes' green thumbs, from harvest time apples to May flowers.

Outdoor

Discovery Park
Discovery Park, Seattle's largest city park, overlooks Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains with 534 acres (216 hectares) of tidal beaches, open meadows, sea cliffs, forest groves, active sand dunes, thickets, and streams. Check out Native American art and handicrafts at the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center.

Volunteer Park
With a prime Capitol Hill locale, climbing the popular water tower at Volunteer Park offers the "best free view in Seattle," as voted by readers of Seattle Weekly.

Center for Wooden Boats
Sunday afternoons, boat rides are free at the Center for Wooden Boats, a free hands-on museum that explains maritime traditions and aims to preserve the art of handcrafted wooden boats, located just north of downtown.

Washington Park Arboretum
Explore Washington Park Arboretum's 230 acres (93 hectares) of 10,000 native plants in this internationally recognized woody plant collection, featuring Sorbus, Maple, Hollies, oaks, conifers, and camellias. Free tours are available every first and third Sunday at 1 p.m. (January-November).
Climb the water tower in Volunteer Park for the "best free view in Seattle," as voted by readers of Seattle Weekly.

Kerry Park
Go to Kerry Park, a small grassy strip on Upper Queen Anne for great views of the Space Needle, downtown Seattle, and Elliott Bay and Mount Rainier.

Myrtle Edwards Park
Go to Myrtle Edwards Park's running and biking trails, which wind 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) north of the waterfront with impressive views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the skyline.

Green Lake
Visit Green Lake, an urban park that has two paths for walkers, bicyclers, strollers, and skaters: the 2.75-mile (4.4-kilometer) paved path that circles the lake and a less-crowded, 3.2-mile (2.15-kilometer) unpaved path on the park's perimeter. Or, sunbathe or swim on the two lakefront beaches.

Ultimate Frisbee
The Northwest Ultimate Association hosts free pick-up games of Ultimate Frisbee at parks around Seattle. Check their online listings for details.

Theater/Dance

Theater companies across the region celebrate the local theater scene with backstage tours, free kids workshops, and more than 50 free performances during Seattle's annual "Live Theatre Week," held the third week of October.

Catch lunchtime preview seminars of Pacific Northwest Ballet performances some Tuesdays at the Central Seattle Public Library, or converse with PNB artists at hour-long Sunday afternoon discussions in the Elliott Bay Book Company's reading room.

Wooden O Theatre Productions, a free Shakespeare company, performs modern takes on classics outdoors at various parks around Seattle during the summer.

Let us know about your own experiences visiting these places and/or any other free things that you have found for this destination. Include a comment in the comments section below so that others may learn from your experience.