Boston is an expensive city to live but that doesn't mean you can't experience some of the best it has to offer on the cheap. Here’s the scoop on 21 of the best free things to do in the city.

Editor's note: during COVID-19, there are restrictions on travel, and some of these free attractions may be temporarily closed or require pre-booking. Check the latest guidance in Massachusetts before planning a trip, and be sure to follow local health guidance.

1. The Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is the best introduction to Revolutionary War-era Boston. This 2.5-mile, red-brick path winds its way past 16 sites that earned this town its status as the Cradle of Liberty. Follow the trail on your own, or hook up with a free guided tour by the National Park Service. Departing from Faneuil Hall, the tours max out at 30 people, so arrive early to secure your spot. Outside of the tour season, you can download a map to use. Many of the sites along the trail are also free to enter.

2. King’s Chapel

The stately Georgian architecture of King's Chapel contains a bell crafted by Paul Revere and the prestigious Governor’s Pew, where George Washington once sat. Admission is always free, but a $4 donation is recommended.

3. Faneuil Hall

Take a look around the Great Hall and listen to a ranger talk about historic Faneuil Hall and its role as market and meeting place. To continue the tour of Boston's historic marketplaces, head to Quincy Market to take your pick from dozens of affordable food stalls.

4. Massachusetts State House

Visit the Massachusetts State House, the so-called `hub of the solar system’ to learn about the state insect (the ladybug) and to pay your respects to the Sacred Cod. Free tours led by The Doric Docents (volunteer tour guides) are Monday through Friday and visit the ceremonial halls, the legislative chambers and the executive branch.

5. USS Constitution

The USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned warship, and it is docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Navy officers lead free tours of the upper decks, where you will learn about the ship's exploits in America’s earliest naval battles. You don’t need money, but you do need a photo ID.

6. Castle Island

Castle Island isn't really an island, but a vast, green waterside park with amazing skyline views. The massive Fort Independence is open for exploration and free tours. Otherwise, you can relax on the beach, fish from the pier or dip your toes into the chilly harbor waters.

7. Black Heritage Trail

On Beacon Hill, the 1.6-mile Black Heritage Trail explores the history of abolitionism and African American settlement in Boston. Download a map for a self-guided walking tour; or meet up with the free NPS tour, which departs from the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial.

8. Bunker Hill Monument

The landmark obelisk marks the site of the fateful battle in June 1775 that turned the tides of the War for Independence. Climb the 294 steps of the Bunker Hill Monument to the top for an impressive panorama of city, sea and sky. You’ll expend nothing but energy.

9. Boston Public Library

The Boston Public Library was built as a 'shrine of letters’ but it's also a temple of art and architecture. Free guided tours depart from the main entrance; or you can pick up a brochure and guide yourself around the stunning, mural-painted halls. The BPL also hosts author talks, musical performances and other free events.

10. Boston’s art museums

Boston is considered the Athens of America, so you should probably check out the art. Boston's museums are usually not free but on Wednesdays after 4pm, admission to the Museum of Fine Arts is by donation (pay what you can, though $25 is suggested). On Thursdays after 5pm, the Institute of Contemporary Art hosts Free Thursday Night.

11. JFK's birthplace

John F Kennedy was born and raised in this modest clapboard house in Brookline, now listed as the JFK National Historic Site. Listen to Rose Kennedy’s reminiscence, as you peruse the furnishings, photographs and mementos that have been preserved since the Kennedys lived here. The site will be closed until spring 2022 for renovations.

12. Harvard University

Students lead free historical tours of Harvard Yard, also sharing their own perspectives on student life. The one-hour tours depart from the Smith Campus Center. Space is limited, so arrive early during busy seasons.

13. Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments

Science-lovers and history buffs can geek out at this small but fascinating museum. Located inside the Harvard Science Center, it showcases a selection of the 20,000 items in the university collection, some of which date to the 15th century. Look for the geometric sector designed by Galileo, and the clocks illustrating the development of modern timekeeping.

14. Longfellow National Historic Site

For 45 years, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow lived and wrote poetry in this stately Georgian manor near Harvard Square. The mansion contains many of the poet’s personal belongings, as well as lush period gardens.

15. Hatch Memorial Shell

The Charles River Esplanade is Boston’s backyard, a fine venue for picnics, bike rides and leisurely strolls. Even better, all summer long, the Hatch Memorial Shell hosts free events like outdoor concerts, family flicks and Dancing in the Park.

16. SoWa First Fridays

From the former factories and warehouses in the South End, artists have carved out studios and gallery space. The SoWa Artists Guild hosts an open studio event on the first Friday of every month (5 to 9pm). Come examine the art and mingle with the resident creatives.

17. Fenway Park

If you can’t get tickets to the big game, you can still sneak a peek inside Fenway Park. The Bleacher Bar is accessible from the street, with a window looking onto center field. The bar gets packed during games when there’s usually a waiting list for window seating.

18. Samuel Adams Brewery tour

Head to Jamaica Plain to see the birthplace of America’s original craft beer. On the Samuel Adams Brewery Classic Tour, learn about the history of the company, witness the brewing process and sample the goods. By 'goods’, we mean frothy lagers, refreshing pilsners and tasty ales. Tickets are first-come, first-serve; tours run Monday - Saturday (11:15am-5pm) and are open to all ages. Must be 21 to drink. The suggested $2 donation is passed on to local charities.

19. Boston Common

Unwind at America's oldest park. Enjoy a family picnic or just relax and people watch. Summertime is for Shakespeare and the winters are for ice skating at Frog Pond.

20. Arnold Arboretum

The 265-acre Arnold Arboretum is planted with over 15,000 exotic trees and flowering shrubs. This gem is pleasant year-round, but it’s particularly beautiful in the bloom of spring. Dog walking, Frisbee throwing, bicycling, sledding and general contemplation are encouraged (but picnicking is not allowed).

21. Boston Children's Museum

From the Art Studio to the Construction Zone, the Boston Children’s Museum is fun for all. It’s not technically free, but 'Target Fridays' mean that admission is only $1 on Friday after 5pm.

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This article was originally published June 2019 and was last updated February 2021.

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Orlando 's major amusement parks can be famously expensive. If you've squandered most of your vacation budget on tickets to see the Mouse, there's still plenty you can find in Orlando that costs absolutely nothing.

Here are the best things to do in Orlando for free.

Editor's note: during COVID-19 there are restrictions on travel and opening hours may vary. Check the latest guidance in the US before planning a trip, and always follow local health advice.

Cornell Fine Arts Museum

This tiny lakeside museum (accredited by the American Alliance of Museums) sits on the campus of Rollins College and houses US, European and Latin American art. Among the highlights are some exquisite old European Masterworks, as well as a good-sized contemporary collection. The collection is on display both here at the museum and at the nearby Alfond Inn, a college-owned boutique hotel. Both have guided tours for visitors, and the museum hosts many other events throughout the year.

Admission to the museum is free, but registration for a time slot is required for all guests.

Disney Springs

Stretching along the shore of Lake Buena Vista, the Disney Springs' smart outdoor pedestrian mall lures tourists with a huge number of restaurants, bars, music venues and shops.

This is also where you'll find the stage show Drawn to Life and the largest Disney store in the world. There's a Disney-styled party atmosphere, particularly on the weekends, with street performers dancing on stilts, parents pushing strollers loaded with Disney shopping bags, and hundreds upon hundreds of people enjoying the waterside drinking and excellent cuisine.

Although most of the restaurants and bars will have a Disney premium added to prices, the experience of soaking in the atmosphere is absolutely free.

Winter Park

When Orlandoans want to wax lyrical about how beautiful their city is, a lot of them will point you to Winter Park, a bucolic town (well, city) north of Downtown founded in the mid-19th century as a winter getaway for wealthy northerners. The town grew up around liberal-arts school Rollins College, Florida's oldest institute of higher learning. Here are some of Orlando's best-kept secrets, including the city's best art museum and some of the most talked about restaurants in town, all within a few shaded, pedestrian-friendly streets. Shops, wine bars and sidewalk cafes line Park Ave.

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

Internationally famous, this stunning and delightful museum houses the world's most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany art. Highlights include the chapel interior designed by the artist for the 1893 World's Columbian Exhibition in Chicago; 10 galleries filled with architectural and art objects from Tiffany's Long Island home, Laurelton Hall; and an installation of the Laurelton's Daffodil Terrace.

The museum is free on Fridays in November in December; admission is $6 the rest of the year.

Orlando Farmers Market

With pretty Lake Eola as its backdrop, the Orlando Farmers Market is where locals and visitors alike come to sample local produce, buy handmade jewelry and catch live entertainment at the wine and beer garden every Sunday at noon. Leashed dogs are welcome (look for vendors specializing in homemade pet treats).

Free street parking is within walking distance, and paid parking garages are nearby on South Osceola Ave and North Eola Drive.

Hannibal Square Heritage Center

As far back as 1881, Winter Park's Hannibal Square was home to African Americans employed as carpenters, farmers and household help. The Heritage Collection: Photographs and Oral Histories of West Winter Park 1900–1980, on permanent display at this little museum, celebrates and preserves this community's culture and history.

CityWalk

Across the canal from the three theme parks is CityWalk, Universal's entertainment district comprising a pedestrian mall with restaurants, clubs, bars, the best multiplex movie theater in town, miniature golf and shops. Live music and mucho alcohol sums up the entertainment options here. Although nights can be packed with partying 20-somethings, bachelorette parties and general drunken mayhem, there's a distinct family-friendly vibe and several bars have reasonable food. Oh, and although it feels like a partying theme park in its own right, you can come here even if you're not visiting the Universal theme parks.

Kraft Azalea Gardens

This quiet 5.22-acre lakeside park features enormous cypress trees and numerous walking trails. It's particularly stunning January through March, when the azaleas burst into bloom. There's a dock, but no barbecues or picnic tables.

Disney's BoardWalk

The quarter-mile-long Disney's BoardWalk area is located across from Epcot and along Crescent Lake. It's designed to echo a waterfront promenade of turn-of-the-century New England seaside resorts. On Thursday to Saturday evenings magicians, jugglers and musicians give a festive vibe, and there are a handful of good restaurants and bars. Pick up a doughnut or cute li'l Mickey Mouse cakes at the bakery, and toot around on a surrey-with-the-fringe-on-top bike.

Far less harried and crowded than Disney Springs, Disney World 's entertainment district is free to the public, and the bridge connecting the boardwalk to the Yacht and Beach club is a good spot to watch the Epcot fireworks.

Winter Park Farmers’ Market

Winter Park’s historic train station, with its original brick walls and massive vintage wooden sliding doors, houses the Saturday morning Winter Park Farmers’ Market. You’ll find local cheeses and honey, flowers and herbs, along with several excellent stands selling baked goods, spread out in the station and through the gardens.

It’s a small market, but a lovely spot to people-watch over a cup of coffee or an organic Popsicle.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

Florida's largest premium winery sits on a 127-acre estate about 25 miles northwest of downtown Orlando. Every year, it produces nearly a million bottles of table and sparkling wines from muscadine and hybrid grapes.

The daily tours and tastings at the winery are completely free. The 45-minute experience includes a 15-minute video followed by a tour of the production area and a peek at the expanse of the vineyard. It also hosts a free music series throughout the year, as well as a free open house during the holidays. It's about 25 miles northwest of downtown Orlando, just off Florida's Turnpike in the townland of Clermont.

Lake Eola Park

This little city park sits between downtown and Thornton Park. A paved sidewalk circles the water, there's a waterfront playground and you can rent swan paddleboats ($15 for 30 minutes). To see the real thing, keep an eye out for white swans and other birds that live in the park. A paved .9-mile walkway encircles the park.

Consistent shade, convenient location and a fenced-in playground make it an ideal escape for families. Street parking is found all around the park.

Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts

Dedicated to Florida writer and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston (1881–1960), who was born in Eatonville and is famous for her novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, this tiny one-room museum features changing exhibits of African American artists.

While the museum itself attracts folks with particular interests in the author, African American studies or a specific exhibit, the Zora! Festival held here attracts thousands for a multiday family-friendly celebration every January.

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Set in a flat valley hemmed in by snaggletoothed mountains and swaths of saguaro, Arizona's second-largest city smoothly blends American Indian, Spanish, Mexican and Anglo traditions. That unique mix of scenery and history makes Tucson perfect for budget travelers – there's plenty to see and do without ever opening your pocket book. Instead, you can soak up unique neighborhoods full of southwestern flavor and explore the one-of-a-kind landscape full of saguaro cacti, colorful desert flora, and an unbelievable array of wildlife.

If you're looking for free things to do in Tucson, we have ten of the best attractions to start with right here (plus another five not-quite-free but budget-friendly attractions to check out, too).

Editor's note: during COVID-19 , there are restrictions on travel, and some of these free attractions may be temporarily closed or require pre-booking. Always check before departure, and be sure to follow local health guidance.

1. Mission San Xavier del Bac

The dazzling white towers of this mission rise from the dusty desert floor 8 miles south of Tucson – a mesmerizing structure that brings an otherworldly glow to the scrubby landscape surrounding it. Nicknamed 'White Dove of the Desert,' the current structure was built in the 1700s in a harmonious blend of Moorish, Byzantine and Mexican Renaissance styles. Carefully restored in the 1990s with the help of experts from the Vatican and still religiously active, the Xavier del Bac one of the best-preserved and most beautiful Spanish missions in the country.

A small museum explains the history of the mission and its construction. Free 45-minute docent tours (four to ten per day, Monday to Saturday) add helpful context. Visit the website for tour times. American Indians sell frybread, jewelry and crafts in the parking lot.

2. The Center for Creative Photography

The CCP is known for its ever-changing, high-caliber exhibits. It also administers the archives of Ansel Adams – perhaps the best-regarded landscape photographer in American history – and occasionally displays his works.

3. Tucson Portrait Project

This wall-to-wall mosaic of about 7000 Tucsonian faces is a simple yet powerful testament to the diversity of the city's population. The Tucson Portrait Project is in the underpass where 4th Ave ducks under the railway line. Or you can explore the panels online.

4. Barrio Histórico District

This compact neighborhood was an important business district in the late 19th century, bordered by I-10, Stone Ave, and Cushing and 17th Streets. Today the Barrio is home to funky shops and galleries in brightly painted adobe houses that are begging to be photographed. Don't miss El Tiradito while you're here, either. Located in Tucson's Barrio Histórico, this shrine to a 19th-century local, purportedly killed by his father-in-law when he fell for his mother-in-law, receives offerings to this day for anyone commemorating a lost loved one.

6. Tucson Museum of Art

For a small city, Tucson boasts an impressive art museum. There's a respectable collection of American, Latin American and modern art, and the permanent exhibition of pre-Columbian artifacts will awaken your inner Indiana Jones. The special exhibits are varied and interesting, there's a superb gift shop, and the block surrounding the building holds a number of notable historic homes. The museum stays open to 8pm on the first Thursday of the month, when admission is free from 5pm.

7. Southern Arizona Transportation Museum

Perfect for families with train-obsessed kids, the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum is located in the historic Southern Pacific Railroad Depot on Toole Avenue. There are statues of “Doc” Holiday & Wyatt Earp, who dispatched Frank Stilwell near this spot in vengeance for the 1882 attack at the OK Coral in Tombstone, Arizona. There's also a Southern Pacific locomotive #1673 – the kind of classic steam engine that originally connected Tucson far-flung western towns from New Orleans to Portland Oregon, as well as Amtrak trains currently in service.

8. Tumamoc Hill hike

A paved trail with stunning views of the city, this three mile hike has moderate elevation gain and is surrounded by wildflowers in the spring. It's also open 4am-10pm, thanks to the fact that Tumamoc Hill is on University of Arizona property. Park on the street along Anklam Road when you go, rather than in the Saint Mary's Hospital lot or the spaces in front of nearby medical offices, which are needed by doctors and their patients. There are limited bathroom facilities and a place to refill your water bottle on site.

9. 2nd Saturdays

2nd Saturdays is a free family-friendly music festival that takes place, you guessed it, the 2nd Saturday each month in downtown Tucson from Toole Avenue & Congress west to Church Avenue & Congress. There are musicians, vendors, street performers and more. Note: 2nd Saturdays are temporarily on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

10. The Presidio District

The Tucson Museum of Art is part of this low-key neighborhood, bounded by W 6th St, W Alameda St, N Stone Ave and Granada Ave, and embracing the site of the original Spanish fort and upmarket 'Snob Hollow.' This is one of the oldest continually inhabited places in North America: the Spanish Presidio de San Augustín del Tucson dates back to 1775, but the fort itself was built over a Hohokam site that has been dated to AD 700 to 900.

Cheap things to do in Tucson

Travelers on a budget will appreciate that, in addition to Tucson's free attractions, there are even more that give you a lot of bang for your buck. For just a few dollars here and there, you can get access to some of the city's best galleries, state parks, national forests, and more. We've included some of the best almost-free attractions, too.

1. DeGrazia's Gallery in the Sun

Since 1950, DeGrazia's Gallery in the Sun has celebrated both regional art and the work of artist Ettore “Ted” DeGrazia. The gallery boasts six permanent collections of paintings that trace historical events and native cultures of the Southwest, as well rotating exhibits of DeGrazia's own prolific ouevre. Not only is the artwork well worth taking in, the setting is pure Tucson. DeGrazia built the Gallery in the Sun on 10-acres in the Santa Catalina Foothills. Its classic adobe facade fits right in to the landscape, surrounded by indigenous plants and built with the help of local Indigenous peoples. Admission fees are $8.00 for adults, $5.00 for ages 12-18, and kids under 12 are free.

2. Catalina State Park

With a day-use area, campgrounds and plenty of hiking, biking and horse trails, this state park in the Santa Catalina Mountains northeast of Tucson is one of the city's favorite playgrounds. The .75 mile Romeo Ruins Interpretive Trail offers an opportunity to learn more about the Hohokam people who lived here 1,500 years ago. There are several other easy one mile hikes here, too, that are easy to squeeze into even a short trip to Tucson. Park entrance fees are $7.00 per vehicle and $3 per individual or cyclist.

3. Tucson Children’s Museum

Parents sing the praises of the Tucson Children’s Museum, which has plenty of engaging, hands-on exhibits – from the Discovery Garden to Pet Vet and Bodyology. Admission is $3 on the 3rd of each month.

4. Sabino Canyon

Sabino Canyon, a lush, pretty and shaded mini-gorge, is well worth a visit in fine weather. Narrated hop-on, hop-off tram tours along the Sabino Canyon Trail (adult/child $10/5) depart every half hour from the visitor center at the main car park for a 45-minute, nine-stop loop with access to trailheads and riverside picnic areas. It’s nicest in the afternoon when the sun plays hide and seek against the canyon walls. You will need a Coronado Recreation Pass to visit Sabino Canyon, which runs $8 for the day, $10 for the week, or $40 a year.

5. Saguaro National Park

Saguaros (sah- wah -ros) are icons of the American Southwest, and an entire cactus army of these majestic, ribbed sentinels is protected in this desert playground. Or more precisely, playgrounds: the park is divided into east and west units, separated by 30 miles and Tucson itself. Both sections – the Rincon Mountain District in the east and Tucson Mountain District in the west – are filled with trails and desert flora; if you only visit one, make it the spectacular western half. A Saguaro National Park Weekly Pass is $25.00 per vehicle.

6. Coronado National Forest

This 2781-sq-mile national forest includes the Santa Catalina and Rincon Mountains, north of Tucson. Rincon Peak is a popular hike in this tiny mountain range, with panoramic views from its  8482 foot summit – but it's 16 miles out and back. More accessible is the scenic drive along Mt Lemmon Highway – the only paved road that reaches the upper reaches of the Santa Catalina Range. Madera Canyon is popular with birders, while in the winter Coronado National Forest has the distinction of being the southernmost ski area in the continental United States. Entry fees are $8 per vehicle per day or $10 per vehicle per week.

5. University of Arizona Museum of Art

Founded in its current building in the 1950s, the university's impressive museum showcases 500 years of European and American creativity. The permanent collection features Rodin, Matisse, Picasso and Pollock. Admission is $8 for adults, $6.50 for seniors, and kids are free.

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Free things to do in Tucson

No city in the world has more or better free things to do than London. In addition to world-class museums – almost all of which have free admission – the city is home to beautiful parks, buzzing markets, stunning churches and phenomenal viewpoints.

In fact, there are so many things to do, you should never get bored. Here are just 20 of the hundreds of free attractions in Britain’s capital.

Editor's note: during COVID-19, there are restrictions on travel, and some of these free attractions may be temporarily closed or require pre-booking. Always check before departure, and be sure to follow local health guidance.

1. National Gallery

Housing masterpieces by painters including van Gogh, Renoir, da Vinci and Michelangelo, the National Gallery is home to one of the world’s most impressive art collections, and sees over six million visitors every year. Avoid the hordes by visiting on weekday mornings or Friday evenings. Whatever time you go, the permanent collections are always free.

2. British Museum

The British Museum is one of London's top attractions, and absolutely free. It is bursting at the seams with enthralling artifacts from all over the world, from Egyptian mummies to samurai armor and Anglo-Saxon burial treasures to the Rosetta Stone. Remarkably, the 80,000 objects on display at any one time only make up 1% of the eight million objects in the museum’s possession.

3. Tate Modern

Located in what was once Bankside Power Station on the south bank of the Thames, Tate Modern is one of the city's most loved attractions. You can enjoy the permanent collection, which includes works by Pollock, Warhol, Matisse and Picasso, for free. The 10th-floor viewing deck of the Blavatnik Building offers wonderful panoramic views over the Thames and beyond, and the building itself is amazing.

4. Greenwich Park

Head to the top of the hill in the center of Greenwich Park and you’ll be treated to a spectacular free view of the city: the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf loom up behind the 17th-century Queen’s House, and beyond, the Thames snakes its way into the heart of London. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic in the capital on a summer’s day.

5. Houses of Parliament

Home to the world’s most famous clock, Big Ben (officially the Queen Elizabeth Tower, but no one calls it that), the Houses of Parliament is a neo-Gothic wonder built in the mid-19th century. All tours are currently suspended, so for now would-be visitors will have to make do with a 360º virtual tour.

6. East London street art

The ephemeral nature of street art makes it difficult to say with confidence where you might find specific displays at any one time. However, certain areas of East London, notably Shoreditch, are famous for having particularly impressive graffiti. The side streets around Brick Lane always yield some decent artwork, as do Middlesex and Sclater streets.

7. Borough Market

Having celebrated its 1000th birthday in 2014, it’s fair to say Borough Market is one of London’s more established haunts. Located under a maze of Victorian railway arches and open Monday to Saturday, Borough Market is stuffed with lovely food and food-lovers, featuring cuisine from all corners of the world. It offers everything you need for a memorable grab-and-go breakfast or lunch, but is also a good place for a simple wander (keeping an eye out for free samples).

8. Museum of London

Off the radar to most visitors, yet one of the city's great attractions, the Museum of London provides a walk through London's various incarnations – from the geological history of the Thames Valley to the Anglo-Saxon inhabitants to modern-day bankers.

9. Kensington Gardens

The delightful Kensington Gardens are home to a trove of treasures, including the Albert Memorial, the Peter Pan Statue, the Serpentine Gallery, the Round Pond and the Diana Memorial Playground. All are free to admire or visit, and when you’re done with the sights, you can wander along the tree-lined paths which crisscross the whole park. East and north of here is a string of Royal Parks, all free to enter: Regent's Park, Hyde Park, Green Park and St James's Park.

10. The Changing of the Guard

One of the best ceremonies in the city, the Changing of the Guard, is sadly suspended until further notice. In the future, it should take place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 11am outside Buckingham Palace. Dressed in bearskin hats and red tunics, the Queen’s Guard will stomp around in time to music in a display of awesome pageantry, as they switch responsibilities with one another.

11. National Portrait Gallery

Essential building works have closed the National Portrait Gallery until spring 2023, but before Google or Wikipedia, this is where the British came to put a face to the names of famous historical figures from the country's history. As such, the paintings are prized more for their subjects rather than their artists. Highlights include portraits of Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth II, the latter courtesy of pop art sensation Andy Warhol.

12. Natural History Museum

Those Victorians sure liked to collect and catalog. This is one of the most compelling results: the Natural History Museum owns an outrageously large collection (around 80 million items) of all things nature in a lovely Gothic Revival building, which opened in the late 19th century. The main hall is dominated by an enormous blue whale skeleton; the wildlife garden is worth a visit too.

13. Victoria & Albert Museum

Arguably the world's best decorative arts museum, the V&A, as it's generally known, has been open since 1852 and contains an incredible 4.5 million items. The first floor focuses on Asian (Japanese swords, ancient Chinese ceramics) and some European art, including plaster casts made from Michelangelo's David (note the fig leaf created in the 19th century to protect the sensibilities of Victorian visitors). The Ardabil Carpet in the Middle East-focused Jameel Gallery is the world's oldest, dating from Iran in the 1500s.

14. Sky Garden

Offering perhaps the best free vantage point in Central London, the indoor viewing decks and restaurants occupying the top three floors of 20 Fenchurch Street (known to locals as the "walkie-talkie") are a great place to hang out without spending a penny. It is open daily, just book your free visit in advance.

15. St Paul's Church

Not to be confused with St Paul's Cathedral (a big attraction that comes with a ticket price), this church on the western flank of Covent Garden Piazza is also known as the Actor’s Church. The first Punch and Judy show took place here in 1662, and there are memorials to Charlie Chaplin and Vivien Leigh.

16. Portobello Road Market

Located in the heart of charming Notting Hill, atmospheric and energetic Portobello Road Market sells everything from vintage clothes and sumptuous street food to antiques. It’s busiest on Saturdays, but there’s always something going on (except Sundays, when only shops rather than stalls are open).

17. Science Museum

The highly informative and entertaining Science Museum fills five floors with interactive exhibits. The Energy Hall highlights the first steam locomotives, which date from the early 19th century, while the third-floor exhibits, which include old gliders, hot-air balloons and flight simulators, are popular with kids.

18. Sir John Soane's Museum

Housed within the actual home of the prolific Regency architect Sir John Soane, this museum is full of the man’s personal effects and curiosities, creating one of London's most atmospheric and fascinating sights. The house is largely as Soane left it upon his death in 1837, with Christopher Wren drawings and a lantern room.

19. Hampstead Heath

This enormous, ancient parkland is one of the best places to escape the city while at the same time catching an amazing view of it: the vista from Parliament Hill, which forms the southeast part of Hampstead Heath, is so impressive it’s actually protected by law. Elsewhere in the park you’ll find a zoo, three swimming ponds (nominal charge, which is often ignored) and plenty of quiet spots for a back-to-nature-in-the-heart-of-London picnic.

20. Wallace Collection

One of London's best small galleries, hidden away just north of Oxford Street, the Wallace Collection is an enthralling glimpse into 18th-century aristocratic life, set up in a lavishly restored Italianate mansion stuffed with 17th and 18th-century art.

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20 best free things to do in London

Los Angeles may seem like it's the playground of the rich and famous, but it's also teeming with natural wonders, architectural riches and edgy art spaces many of which you can experience without breaking the bank. So before you start saving your pennies for your trip to La La Land, be sure to remember, some of the best things in the city of Angels are free.

Editor's note: during COVID-19 there are restrictions on travel and opening hours may vary. Check the latest guidance in Los Angeles before planning a trip, and always follow local health advice.

1. Beaches

With Los Angeles County home to more than a dozen beaches, and even more within nearby Ventura County (to the north) and Orange County (to the south), you could easily knock off over 20 free things to do simply by exploring all of the area's free public beaches. If you're pressed for time, stick to the highlights: Santa Monica for the pier and its popular ferris wheel and carousel, Malibu for its tide pools and coastline views, and Venice Beach (see No.4) for its art scene and people watching. Check out Lonely Planet's Best beaches in LA for more ideas.

2. Live TV

Can you really say you've visited LA if you haven't spotted a celebrity? One way to snag an up-close viewing of some of today's household names is by catching a live taping of a TV show, such as Ellen! and The Voice. And with proper planning you can fit it into your Los Angeles itinerary without spending a cent. LA's official tourism board has all the details on how to get in on the behind-the-scenes action of live TV recordings, and covers the gamut of popular talk shows, game shows and sitcoms.

3. The Hollywood sign

Erected in 1923, the Hollywood sign, one of the most iconic landmarks in LA, is about to celebrate its 100th birthday. While it's not possible to touch the massive sign, it is possible to view it from many vantage points throughout the city. These various vistas not only provide postcard-perfect backdrops for your vacation photos, but also involve some of the city's most popular hiking routes (see No. 7). One of the best viewing spots is at the Hollywood & Highland Center, which is filled with plenty of popular restaurants and the Dolby Theater, home to the Academy Awards.

4. Venice Boardwalk

In addition to the hundreds of food, souvenir, and art vendors, the Venice Boardwalk is known for its many free attractions: live performers; adjacent bike path (see No.16); colorful murals known as the Venice Art Walls; the Venice Skate Park, Venice Pier, perfect for sunsets; and the "home of bodybuilding," Muscle Beach Venice, which is frequented by well-known bodybuilders such as Arnold Schwarzenegger. And if you go two blocks inland, there is also the noteworthy Venice sign. It's no wonder that, after Disneyland, Venice Beach is the second biggest attraction in Southern California, with as many as 30,000 visitors per day. And the best part: the major draws are all entirely free.

Read more: Highlights of Los Angeles

5. Olvera Street

The city of Los Angeles got its start, circa 1781, right on this very block. Now part of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, it attracts more than two million visitors annually. Here you can find 27 of the city's historic buildings preserved, some of which are open to the public as free museums; these include the city's oldest surviving house, Avila Adobe. The street is also an ideal spot to sample Mexican cuisine, hear live music, and go souvenir shopping.

6. Sunset Strip

New York City has Times Square and, not to be outdone, its west coast rival LA has the Sunset Strip. Although Sunset Blvd is now lined with larger-than-life billboards and neon signs between Laurel Canyon and Doheny Dr, it has been a happening nightlife spot since the last '20s a hundred years ago.

7. Griffith Park

Plan a half- to full-day visit to enjoy Griffith Park, with its hiking trails offering some of the city's best views of the Hollywood sign, and the Observatory (see No.15). Within the park you can access three different routes with views of the sign: the easy, 3-mile Mt Hollywood Trail; the moderate, 6.5-mile Brush Canyon Trail, which includes areas filmed in the 1960s Batman TV series and many movies; and lastly the difficult, 3-mile Cahuenga Peak. The Hollywood Sign Trust has more details on the hiking routes and points of interest along the way. And if you're into hiking check out our picks for the best hikes in Los Angeles.

8. The Broad

Beyond the Broad 's ever-popular Infinity Mirror Rooms, the always-free museum is known for its modern collection, including works from Andy Warhol, Barbara Kruger, Jeff Koons, and more. The Broad is worth visiting again if you've been before because only 250 of the collection's 2000 post-war works are on display at a time. Bonus: the building's exterior makes for a great photo opp.

Read more: Best day trips from Los Angeles

9. Rodeo Drive

Sure, the legendary Rodeo Drive may be home to some of the most expensive stores in the world, but it doesn't cost a thing to window shop. Be sure to drop by the original luxury boutique, Giorgio Beverly Hills, featured in the classic film Pretty Woman starring Julia Roberts.

10. Getty Villa

Beyond oil tycoon John Paul Getty's collection of Greek, Roman, and Estrucan antiquities – of which there are over 1000 displayed at a time – you'll find the Getty Villa also provides gorgeous ocean views of the shores of Malibu below. While the site is always free, you do need to book a complimentary timed ticket in order to enter (walk-ins are not accepted), which may require some advance planning during peak season.

11. Hollywood Walk of Fame

This sidewalk adorned with pink marble stars has been honoring popular Hollywood entertainers since 1960. Get your walking shoes on – there's upwards of 2600 stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and they stretch over more than a dozen city blocks. Head to the intersection of Hollywood Blvd and Highland Ave, where it first began, and enjoy searching for the greats such as Marilyn Monroe and Aretha Franklin. If you happen to be in town when there's a Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony planned no worries, these events always have free public viewing areas.

12. Forecourt of the Stars

While you have to pay to watch IMAX and MX4D shows and go on a VIP tour of the history of movie-making in Hollywood inside TCL Chinese Theater, one of its greatest offerings, located out front, doesn't cost a thing. Visitors can get hands-on (and feet on) with the "Forecourt of the Stars" – where you'll find cement-preserved handprints and footprints of top celebrities from the past 100 years – all for free. Drop by and find out what it's like to step in Jane Fonda's high heels.

13. La Brea Tar Pits & Museum

As with many museums and cultural centers in LA, the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum offers free entrance at selected times, including on the first Tuesday of every month except July and August, and every Tuesday in September. The fascinating museum has been dubbed the "Gateway to the Ice Age," and is known for having one of the world's greatest fossil collections. For LA county residents, the museum is free Monday through Friday from 3pm to 5pm

14. Third Street Promenade

Simply "The Promenade" to those from Santa Monica and LA, the Third St Promenade turned into a car-free stretch long before pedestrian plazas became the norm. If you have a little room in your budget, it's a good place to do some shopping or to enjoy happy hour at a restaurant. The many street entertainers are also worth the spend.

15. Griffith Observatory

LA's landmark 1935 observatory opens a window onto the universe from its perch on the southern slopes of Mt Hollywood. Its planetarium claims the world's most advanced star projector, while its astronomical touch displays explore some mind-bending topics, from the evolution of the telescope and the ultraviolet and x-ray techniques used to map our solar system to the cosmos itself.

The public is welcome to peer into the Zeiss Telescope on the east side of the roof where sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills and the gleaming city below are especially spectacular at sunset. After dark, staff wheel additional telescopes out to the front lawn for stargazing. The observatory is open until 10pm, but the line closes at 9:30 so we recommend arriving around dusk.

16. Marvin Braude Bike Trail

Starting within Will Rogers State Beach in the Pacific Palisades and running south to Torrance County Beach, this 22-mile bike route that parallels the Pacific Coast Highway takes you past some of LA's best beaches, including Venice and Santa Monica. Be prepared for some of that classic LA traffic, in the form of runners, skateboarders, scooter riders and dog walkers.

17. Hollywood Bowl

When concerts aren't taking place, this outdoor amphitheatre, which boasts the Hollywood hillside as its backdrop, turns into a public park. Stomp around the grounds where the Beatles, Van Morrison and the Dave Matthews Band have performed. Open rehearsals for the LA Philharmonic and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra are held on some mornings during the summer season (always call ahead to confirm).

18. Venice Canals of America

The Venice Canals of Italy may be the real deal, but there's still a certain charm in stumbling upon the unique version preserved in the Venice Canals of LA. While the area's gondola rides are a thing of the past, some of the original canals that made their debut in 1905 have survived (many others were paved over to make way for the era of the automobile). Those that live on are now listed on the Register of Historic Places. Get your camera ready for this 2.1-mile loop of an eclectic neighborhood full of pedestrian bridges, picturesque beach cottages, and towering modern mansions.

19. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Known simply as LACMA by locals, the largest museum in the western US offers free entry on the second Tuesday of every month. One of the most Instagrammed spots in all of LA is the museum's "Urban Light" outdoor installation, comprised of hundreds of vintage LA street lamps, and it's always free.

20. The Beverly Hills Hotel

Staying overnight at the "Pink Palace" isn't free (or even cheap), but there's no cost to strolling the grounds of the historic Beverly Hills Hotel. It's been a staple in Beverly Hills before there even was an incorporated city of Beverly Hills (the city's incorporation became official in 1914 while the hotel opened its doors in 1912). The Bad and the Beautiful, The Way We Were, Anywhere But Here, The Muppets Go to Hollywood, and Beverly Hills Cop, among others, all had scenes filmed here. The hotel has also played host to many iconic guests, who range from Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra to Charlie Chaplin.

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Detroit has had its ups and downs, but these days it's vibing on retro glam that won't break the bank. Downtown will pop your eyeballs, from the extraordinary art deco skyscrapers to the whimsical public parks and edgy street art. The best part of all? You can see some of Detroit's most iconic sites and favorite local hangouts for free. We narrowed it down to the top 17 to help you get started exploring Motor City.

Editor's note: during COVID-19, there are restrictions on travel, and some of these free attractions may be temporarily closed or require pre-booking. Always check before departure, and be sure to follow local health guidance.

1. Pure Detroit Tours

Purveyors of locally inspired gifts, Pure Detroit also offers guided tours of some of the city's best sights, including the Fisher Building, the Guardian Building and the Packard Plant. Guides – typically local historians – are knowledgeable and friendly. Stop in at one of Pure Detroit's five locations or check the website for details.

2. Eastern Market

Produce, cheese, spice and flower vendors fill the large halls on Saturday, but you also can turn up Monday through Friday to browse the specialty shops (props to the peanut roaster) and cafes that flank the halls on Russell and Market Streets. In addition, from June through September there's a scaled-down market on Tuesdays and a Sunday craft market with food trucks. Or arrive any day for mural gaping. Eastern Market has become an internationally renowned hot spot for street art, too.

3. Fisher Building

This 1928 masterpiece from the man who built Detroit, Albert Kahn, has an imposing art deco exterior made from Minnesota granite and Maryland marble, and an interior to rival any Italian cathedral. From the soaring vaulted ceilings, featuring an array of intricate, hand-painted patterns, to the sparkling mosaics by Hungarian artist Géza Maróti and gleaming marble on the walls, the visual inspiration of the Fisher Building is endless.

4. Third Man Records

Local boy Jack White opened Third Man, and it's a super-fun browse. The store sells records (of course), turntables, T-shirts and other gear, but the coolest bits are the recording booth (where you can make your own record for $20) and the record pressing plant that you can peek into for free (or tour for $15 on select Saturdays). Free concerts and other performances take place on the in-store stage; check Third Man's calendar for the schedule.

5. John K. King Used Books

This cluttered, multistory bookstore is a Detroit landmark sure to delight any bibliophile. Treasures await in the dusty stacks, and exploring the building is an adventure in itself.

6. Guardian Building

Commissioned as a 'cathedral of finance,' this distinctive, 40-story, redbrick building with green and white accents was the world's tallest masonry structure when it opened in 1929. The Guardian Building 's interior is a colorful explosion of marble, mosaics and murals that draw from Aztec, art deco and local influences. It's certainly the prettiest Bank of America you'll ever see. Pure Detroit, whose flagship store is in the building, leads tours most Saturdays and Sundays.

7. Woodward Dream Cruise

On the third Saturday in August, car lovers from around the world assemble in Detroit to show off their four-wheeled treasures and cruise down the city's main drag. The party stretches for miles, but most of the action takes place north of downtown, along Woodward and side streets nearby between 8 and 10 Mile roads.

Between road closures and the event's sprawling footprint, it's hard to know where to start with the Dream Cruise. Try diving in at 9 Mile, a few blocks east or west of Woodward. You'll be able to ooh and ahh over the cars and take in the charming center of the Ferndale neighborhood at the same time.

8. The Heidelberg Project

Polka-dotted streets, houses covered in Technicolor paint blobs, strange doll sculptures in yards – this is no acid trip, but rather a block-spanning art installation. It's the brainchild of artist Tyree Guyton, who wanted to beautify his run-down community and has been at it for more than 30 years. It's an ever-evolving work in progress. In 2016, Guyton announced he'd be dismantling the project and putting a cultural village in its place, but so far the original eye-popping installations remain.

Download the free Heidelberg Project app, which describes each of Guyton's pieces. Work is ongoing to rehab the buildings into galleries and art workshop spaces, much like the current Numbers House. Heidelberg is located about 1.5 miles from Eastern Market. Take Gratiot Ave northeast to Heidelberg St. The project spans from Ellery to Mt Elliott Sts in a rough neighborhood.

9. City Sculpture Park

Local artist Robert Sestok bought a forlorn lot by the freeway where cars whizz by, and plunked down his hulking abstract sculptures welded from scrap metal. The do-it-yourself public space makes for a quick but impressive walkabout.

10. Beacon Park

A community gathering space across the street from the fortress-like GAR Building, Beacon Park always has something cool going on: food trucks on summer weekdays (from 11am to 2pm), free concerts, whimsical interactive art installations, a night market with a silent disco on summer Saturdays (7pm to midnight) and free yoga classes on the circular lawn.

11. Scarab Club

The Scarab Club transports you back a century to a gilded age of arts appreciation when costumed balls and visits by Diego Rivera and Norman Rockwell were the norm. The 1928 building’s gorgeous interior is stuffed with Tiffany lamps and objets d’art. Browse whatever exhibition is showing in the main art gallery, listen to a poetry reading, attend a sketch session ($10, held four times weekly) or hear a chamber music concert (tickets $20 to $25).

Don’t forget to look at the ceiling beam covered with famous artists’ signatures in the second-floor lounge. The club is located right behind the Detroit Institute of Arts.

12. Lincoln Street Art Project

Vivid graffiti, murals and sculptures made from found objects adorn this stark industrial site that abuts a recycling facility. The Lincoln Street Art Project is a quintessential slice of urban-cool, DIY Detroit that's always changing, as local artists add to it frequently. DJ-fueled raves take place on occasion (especially full moon nights); keep an eye on the events schedule. It’s best to get here by bike or car, as the park is in a bleak pocket of town.

13. Hart Plaza

This is the site of many free summer weekend festivals and concerts. While you're at Hart Plaza, check out the sculpture of Joe Louis' mighty fist.

14. Michigan Central Station

The once-grand beaux-arts rail terminal, within eyeshot of Corktown's main drag, was left to fall into decline after closing in 1988 and became a symbol of the city's shattered economy. Like Detroit itself, though, Michigan Central Station is making a mighty comeback. Ford Motor Company bought it and is spending $350 million to transform it into a new innovation campus that will focus on self-driving cars. It's slated to open in 2022.

15. Renaissance Center

Built in 1977, the Renaissance Center still stands as the tallest building in the entire state. General Motor's glossy, cloud-poking headquarters is a fine place to mooch off the free wi-fi, take a free hour-long tour (Monday through Friday at noon and 2pm; meet at the Jefferson St lobby by the main entrance on Level 1) or embark on the riverfront walkway.

16. Riverwalk and Dequindre Cut

The city's swell riverfront path runs for 3 miles along the churning Detroit River from Hart Plaza east to Mt Elliott St, passing several parks, outdoor theaters, riverboats and fishing spots en route. Eventually, it will extend all the way to beachy Belle Isle (detour onto Jefferson Ave to get there now). About halfway along the Riverwalk, near Orleans St, the 1.5-mile Dequindre Cut Greenway path juts north, offering a convenient passageway to Eastern Market.

17. The People Mover

As mass transit, the monorail's 3-mile loop on elevated tracks around downtown won't get you very far. As a tourist attraction, the People Mover is a sweet ride providing great views of the city and riverfront. There are 13 stations, including one in the Renaissance Center.

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Seattle can be expensive. Look in the right places, though, and there are still plenty of free ways to spend time in Emerald City without spending a penny.

1. Explore Pike Place Market

Touristy, but justifiably so, Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s top sights and absolutely free – except for the money you’ll be tempted to spend here. The range of stalls, from fishmongers and florists to food, demonstrates the Port of Seattle’s importance and why it became such a valuable jewel in the Pacific Northwest’s crown. Any day of the year this is a great place to shop and people-watch.

2. Fremont Public Sculptures

You don't need to pay museum entrance fees to see some of the best and most iconic art in the city. Fremont is an art gallery in and of itself, with public sculptures sharing sidewalk space with pedestrians and cyclists throughout the neighborhood. Each of the 10 or so pieces is totally unique and you'll often find them dressed up for holidays or other special events. Together they represent a window into Fremont's golden era of counterculture bliss. While you're in the neighborhood, pay a visit to the iconic Fremont Troll, too. The 18ft-high cement figure snacking on a Volkswagen Beetle is a favorite place for late-night beer drinking.

3. Tour the Frye Art Museum

This small museum on First Hill preserves the collection of Charles and Emma Frye. The Fryes collected more than 1000 paintings, mostly 19th- and early-20th-century European and American pieces, and a few Alaskan and Russian artworks. Most of the Frye Museum 's permanent collection is stuffed into a rather small gallery and comes across as a little 'busy;' however, the Frye's tour de force is its sensitively curated temporary shows, which usually have a much more modern bent.

4. Stroll through Olympic Sculpture Park

The Space Needle isn’t the only large-scale metal construction in the city; Olympic Sculpture Park, managed by the Seattle Art Museum, is home to over a dozen large artworks, with access free and open to the public every day from dawn until dusk. From the sweeping red Eagle to the unusual Echo, this is a great place to partake of Seattle’s art-loving culture.

5. Wander through Ballard Locks

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, are more than just an effective link for ships moving between Puget Sound and lakes Union and Washington. In addition to watching the parade of boats using the locks to traverse the waterways, another popular activity is sea-life spotting at the fish ladder section of the locks.

6. Join the Silent Reading Party

The first Wednesday of every month, the Sorrento Hotel turns their Fireside Room into a social-yet-quiet literary occasion, when a mix of people claim the couches and armchairs to consume great written work. Everyone is welcome but the event is popular, so it’s worth putting a standing event on your calendar so you don’t forget to turn up early and snag a spot.

7. Take an urban hike at Discovery Park

Covering 534 acres near the Magnolia neighborhood, Discovery Park provides a variety of terrains for those wanting a bit of outdoor time in the heart of the city. Choose between forested trails, the rocky beach and exploring the West Point Lighthouse – as far west as you can be within the city limits. All are free and beautifully preserved by the city for your enjoyment. The Daybreak Star Indian cultural center at Discovery Park is also free, and displays a permanent collection of Native American artwork as well as special exhibitions.

8. Take an art walk

Throughout the summer months, Seattle’s neighborhoods take turns opening their gallery doors for the artistic-minded to explore at will. Pioneer Square galleries open the first Thursday, Belltown hosts on the second Friday each month and Capitol Hill’s event is on the second Thursday. In addition to free gallery access, many local businesses hold daily specials for these nights, making them perfect for a cheap evening out.

9. Pay-what-you-feel walking tours

Since 2012, Seattle Free Walking Tours has brought European-style informative strolls to the Emerald City. Organized as a nonprofit, these intimate two-hour walks give you a chance to learn more about corners of the city like Pioneer Square, the waterfront, and downtown, as well as stories of the many people who have called this place home, from the native Duwamish to celebrities like Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee. While business is on pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they're definitely a must-do when in-person tours start up again.

10. Get the locals’ view of the skyline

There are far cheaper ways to take in the Seattle skyline than by forking out for the Space Needle. Enjoy the view over Lake Union from Gas Works Park while families and dogs frolic on the grassy hills, or contemplate the free but priceless panorama of the entire skyline (Space Needle included) from Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill. Another great spot is the Water Tower Observation Deck in Volunteer Park. Built in 1907, it provides wonderful vistas of the Space Needle, Elliott Bay and – should it be in the mood – Mt Rainier. It's practically obligatory to climb the 107 steep steps to the top.

11. Share your works in progress

On the first and third Monday of every month, the mics at Hugo House are open to any and all writers in the city through an event called Works in Progress. Listeners are also welcome, though we’ve heard that the stories are not necessarily family friendly – it is a public open mic night after all! During the COVID-19 pandemic, Works in Progress has gone virtual. You can learn more about how to participate here.

12. Get some free exercise

With the great outdoors on their doorstep it’s no surprise that Seattleites love their exercise, and there are plenty of ways to get some – many of them free. If you need somewhere to get back in cycling shape, try a few circuits on the Green Lake Park 2.8mi loop; while runners should head for Myrtle Edwards Park and hit the paths along the shores of Elliot Bay.

13. Get cultural at the Seattle Center

Nearly every weekend of the year, the Seattle Center plays host to a variety of events, including many cultural festivals collectively known as Festál. From the Irish Festival in March to the Polish Festival in July and CroatiaFest in October, you can immerse yourself in ethnic food, dance, and celebration, all without spending a dime on admission.

14. Watch the sunset or light your own fire

Pyromaniacs can indulge their fiery tendencies in Golden Gardens Park, one of the few public parks that allows open fires (in designated areas). The park also provides one of the best views for sunsets on those days where Seattle is graced with a cloudless sky. The only thing you’ll spend is time deciding on your favorite location to enjoy the moment.

15. Go to the beach

Many of Seattle's plentiful parks also double as beaches, thanks to the bounty of salt and fresh water shoreline. Whether you're looking to swim, kayak, soak up the sun on a beach blanket, or even go ziplining, there's something for everyone at Seattle beaches.

16. Spheres

Amazon's latest construction in the Denny Triangle opened January 2018 and is quite different to the Amazon Tower I, which went up in 2015 down the street. Relatively low to the ground with the aesthetic of a sci-fi movie, the name says it all with the Spheres, which are constructed in white metals and glass and contain within them a veritable botanic garden's worth of plants. You can stop in the atrium (called the 'Understory') for a small exhibit on the building's architecture and ethos. Tours are available as part of a larger tour of Amazon HQ, which can be arranged on the website.

17. The Alki Point Lighthouse

The focal point of one of Seattle's most popular beaches, the US Coast Guard maintains the Alki Point Lighthouse which dates from 1913. It has limited seasonal hours Memorial Day through Labor Day, but the tours are free when it's open. Check the website for the most up-to-date information.

18. Take in a Ladies Musical Club performance

The Ladies Musical Club exists to further interest in classical music in Seattle through free performances throughout the city. From West Seattle to Wallingford, this women-only group selects and produces a variety of classical music styles, staging shows in smaller, community venues. Like many live performance events, the Ladies Musical Club has gone virtual during the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning you can enjoy from anywhere for the time being.

19. The Roq La Rue

This gallery has secured its reputation by taking risks: the work on view skates along the edge of urban pop-culture. Since opening in 1998, the Roq La Rue, which is owned and curated by Kirsten Anderson, has been a significant force in the pop surrealism field and is frequently featured in Juxtapoz magazine.

20. Washington Park Arboretum

This wild and lovely park stretching from Madison Valley up to Union Bay offers a wide variety of gardens, a wetlands nature trail and 200 acres of mature forest threaded by paths. More than 5500 plant species grow within the Washington Park Arboretum ’s boundaries. In the spring Azalea Way, a meandering trail that winds through the arboretum, is lined with a giddy array of pink- and orange-flowered azaleas and rhododendrons.

21. Relax a moment in Waterfall Garden Park

Waterfall Garden Park was one of Seattle’s first small ‘parklets’ or ‘pocket parks.’ Tucked quietly into the Pioneer Square neighborhood, it has a 22ft waterfall and is a great spot to take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.

23. Seattle Rose Garden

The 2.5-acre Seattle Rose Garden, near the entrance road to the zoo off N 50th St, was started in 1924 and contains 5000 plants, including heirloom roses and a test garden for All-America Rose Selections.

24. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Eloquently run by the US National Park Service, this wonderful museum has exhibits, photos and news clippings from the 1897 Klondike gold rush, when a Seattle-on-steroids acted as a fueling depot for prospectors bound for the Yukon in Canada. Entry would cost $20 anywhere else; in Seattle it’s free! The museum, which opened in 2006, is housed in the old Cadillac Hotel (built in 1889), rescued from a grisly fate after nearly being toppled in the 2001 Nisqually earthquake.

The best aspect of the Klondike Gold Rush Museum is its clever use of storytelling. At the outset you are introduced to five local characters who became stampeders (Klondike prospectors) in the 1890s, and you're then invited to follow their varying fortunes and experiences periodically throughout the rest of the museum. Sound effects and interactive exhibits are used to good effect.

25. The Log House Museum

A historical curiosity in Seattle's oldest neighborhood, this free museum was built in 1903 from Douglas fir trees as a carriage house for the currently disused Homestead Restaurant a block away. When all around it was moved or demolished to lay out West Seattle, the Log House miraculously survived and now sits amid a dense grid of modern single family homes rather than dense forest. It serves as a small museum with revolving historical exhibitions.

This article was originally published May 2015. It was updated February 2021.

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There's an old joke about Las Vegas being called "Lost Wages." Whether it's high-roller suites or pricey meals at fine-dining restaurants, Las Vegas can sometimes feel like a playground for the filthy rich.

But Sin City doesn't just have to be for the upper crust. There are plenty of ways to enjoy everything the city has to offer – from a rowdy piano bar to a stroll through Vegas' bright, vintage past – without spending a single cent. These are our favorite things to do for free in Las Vegas.

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Changing with the seasons, Bellagio ’s conservatory displays ostentatious floral arrangements, installed by crane through a soaring 50ft-high ceiling. The effect is unnatural, but that doesn't stop crowds from gawking, and the aroma of fresh blooms is enchanting.

Peek around the periphery of the conservatory for classic paintings re-created with buds and flowers instead of oil paints.

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat

The perfect spot for families with kids, the wildlife habitat is just steps away from the hubbub on the Strip. Over a dozen acres of pools, gardens, waterfalls and water­ways are filled with swans, exotic birds and ornamental koi (carp). Here, Chilean flamingos and African penguins wander around, and palm trees and jungle plants flourish in the middle of the desert.

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

In a city famous for neon signs, one reigns supreme: the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada" sign, facing north and straddling Las Vegas Blvd just south of Mandalay Bay, the unofficial beginning of the Strip. Designed by Betty Willis at the end of the "Fabulous Fifties," this sign is a classic photo op and a reminder of Vegas' past. Only southbound traffic can enter the parking lot, greeted by its flip-side reminder to "Drive Carefully" and "Come Back Soon." There is typically a bit of a wait for those looking to get a photograph under the iconic sign, but the line moves quickly.

Fountains of Bellagio

With a backdrop of Tuscan-style architecture, the Bellagio ’s faux Lake Como and dancing fountains are the antitheses of the Mojave Desert – although the resort does use reclaimed water. The fountain show’s recorded soundtrack varies, so cross your fingers that it will be Italian opera or ol’ Blue Eyes crooning "Luck Be a Lady," instead of top 40.

Fremont Street Experience

A five-block pedestrian entertainment strip, between Main St and N Las Vegas Blvd, topped by an arched steel canopy and filled with computer-controlled lights, the Fremont Street Experience was the catalyst for Downtown's rejuvenation. Every evening, the canopy turns into a 1375ft-long video screen showering revelers with dazzling light-and-sound shows powered by 600,000 watts and over 49 million LEDs.

Don't Tell Mama

There's no cover charge at this friendly Fremont East piano bar that's a hit with locals, who crowd the place on weekends to hear their favorite "singing bartenders" belting out requests. Free-flowing (but not free) cocktails keep the scene thumping into the wee hours. It only takes reservations if you plan to arrive before 9pm.

The Neon Museum's Public Art

One of Las Vegas' best museums, the Neon Museum isn't completely free (guided tours of the Neon Boneyard start at $20), but the museum is responsible for an equally spectacular display of refurbished signs that line Las Vegas Blvd N as vintage public art. Download the free walking tour to spot Sin City classics like Benny Binion's Horseshoe that once illuminated Fremont St, or the Hacienda Horse and Rider that once hung over the Strip. Be sure to be on the premises at dusk to really witness the signs light up to really witness the beauty of the museum.

Poker lessons at MGM Grand

Owned by the eponymous Hollywood studio, the Grand liberally borrows Hollywood themes. Flashing LED screens and computerized fountains add extra theatrics to the 100,000lb, 45ft-tall bronze lion statue at the casino's entrance. It's free to wander around the sights, but the real draw is the free poker lessons that take place every day at 10:30am and 6pm. Arrive early, because they fill up fast.

Mirage Volcano

When the Mirage ’s trademark artificial volcano erupts with a roar out of a 3-acre lagoon, it inevitably brings traffic on the Strip to a screeching halt. Be on the lookout for wisps of smoke escaping from the top, signaling that the fiery Polynesian-style inferno, with a soundtrack by a Grateful Dead drummer and an Indian tabla musician, is about to begin.

Aria Fine Art Collection

Fifteen large-scale art installations, contemporary sculptures and abstract paintings by some of the world's top artists add a dab of substance to the glitzy Aria Campus. Key works include Maya Lin's 84ft-long reclaimed-silver cast of the Colorado River overhanging the front desk, Tony Cragg's stainless-steel towers and a giant LED installation by Jenny Holzer.

Also look for works by Henry Moore, Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, Tatsuo Miyajima, Nancy Rubins and Isa Genzken. Pick up a brochure from the nearest Aria concierge, or download it from the website.

Grand Canal Shoppes

Don't be surprised to find Hollywood celebrities inside this high-design shopping mall. Anchored by the three-story department store Barneys New York, the Palazzo's shops are dazzling. Bauman Rare Books carries rare, signed editions and antiquarian titles. If you can resist the temptation to go home with a rare Shakespeare (for a cool $12,000), the experience of perusing literary history is free.

Container Park

Say hi to the giant praying mantis art installation as you enter this outdoor complex built from decommissioned shipping containers and streel-framed cubes. Inside are mostly indie boutiques, bars, restaurants, galleries and even a pole-dancing studio.

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The best things you can do for free in Las Vegas

Portland, Oregon keeps it low key – this is a place that's all about paperback books and beer, pinball machines and pretty urban hikes, street art and soapbox derby races down the side of a dormant volcano. So it's no surprise that it's easy to find plenty of free things to do in Portland, from trails accessible by public transit to community art projects, street fairs, and unusual museums.

Here are twenty of the best free things to do in Portland, aka Rose City, Stumptown, Bridgetown, and PDX.

Editor's note: during COVID-19, there are restrictions on travel, and some of these free attractions may be temporarily closed or require pre-booking. Always check before departure, and be sure to follow local health guidance.

1. Forest Park

Stretching more than 5100 acres along the eastern slope of the Tualatin Mountains is Forest Park, the largest wooded urban park in the US. Flanking Portland's West Hills, its 70-mile network of verdant trails are a great way to witness the grandeur of the Pacific Northwest's forestlands without having to leave the city limits, and is accessible by public transit.

2. Powell's City of Books

Occupying five floors and spanning an entire city block, the iconic retailer is the largest independent bookstore in the country. Its nine color-coded rooms house millions of books on every subject imaginable, and with throngs of individuals wandering the stacks each day, it's one of the best places in Portland for people-watching. Each month, dozens of authors, artists and thought-leaders visit Powell's for free readings, panels and other events in the Pearl Room's Basil Hallward Gallery. The store also hosts children's story hours (some led by drag queens), poetry slams, book clubs, writing workshops and game demonstrations.

3. Mill's End Park

Having the largest park (Forest Park) within city limits perhaps isn't an oddity, but having the smallest one might be. Mill Ends Park – located on the median strip at SW Naito Pkwy and Taylor St – is a circle of green 24in in diameter. It's the reputed home of leprechauns, and locals enjoy dressing the tiny park up for different holidays.

4. Saturday Market

The largest and longest-running open-air craft market in the US, Portland's Saturday Market is home to hundreds of vendors, which are all chosen by a jury. Despite the name, it's open on Sundays, too. You can easily while away hours as you wander through craft stalls selling everything from clothing, jewelry and handmade accessories to local art, knick-knacks and homewares. Grab a bite from the many food carts and take in the antics of street performers while you chow down – this is one of the best places in Portland for people-watching.

5. Last Thursday on Alberta

Artists, musicians and buskers compete for attention among partying crowds on NE Alberta St during this iconic street art event, which takes place on the last Thursday evening of each month. But the festivities aren't limited to the street – during this time, galleries will launch new exhibitions, and bars and restaurants hang new local artwork for sale. It's free to browse, but purchasing wares such as paintings, sculptures, handmade jewelry, and more is also a great way to support the local creative community.

6. Tom McCall Waterfront Park

On the west bank of the Willamette River, Tom McCall Waterfront Park spans a great stretch of downtown Portland and is home to many of the city's notable monuments and sights such as the Japanese American Historical Plaza and Salmon Street Springs. Its waterfront path is wonderful for strolling, jogging and cycling, and in springtime, you'll see an explosion of cherry blossoms from the trees lining the path. Named after the governor who established Oregon's urban growth boundary system to protect green spaces from development, the park hosts numerous festivals and events like the Waterfront Blues Festival and LGBTQ Pride.

7. Portland Street Art

In a city whose mantra is "Keep Portland Weird," you can expect plenty of creative street art. From towering murals of beautiful women with living foliage for their hair on Division Street to graffiti on the concrete walls of Portland's Central Eastside Industrial District, there's no shortage of color wherever you wander. "Produce Row" on the east side is an especially fun place to stroll, with a skate park tucked under one of the bridges and colorful bunting waving in the air. The Alberta Arts District is another neighborhood with a flush crop of spray paint masterpieces.

8. Walking with Ramona Quimby

Ramona Quimby may be Portland's most famous fictional resident – the beloved children's character created by Oregonian Beverley Cleary has been charming readers of all ages since 1950. Cleary's realistic portrayal of childhood made Ramona a perennial favorite, but she was equally faithful to her books setting in Stumptown. You can visit numerous locations in the series that really exist, from Klickitat Street where Ramona's family lived to a statue of Ramona in Grant Park. The Multnomah County Library has a printable PDF map you can use for your own free walking tour.

9. Washington Park

Tame and well-tended Washington Park contains several key attractions within its 410 acres of greenery. The International Rose Test Garden is the centerpiece of Portland's famous rose blooms; there are more than 700 varieties on show here, plus great city views. Hoyt Arboretum features twelve miles of trails wind through this 189-acre ridge-top garden above the city zoo. It's home to over 6000 native and exotic plants and trees representing 1100 different species, and it offers easy walks any time of year. You'll have easy access to the Japanese Garden from here, too. Take the MAX light-rail to Washington Park station.

10. The Pittock Mansion

This grand and beautiful 1914 mansion was built by pioneer-entrepreneur Henry Pittock, who revitalized the Oregonian newspaper; his wife, Georgiana, also a pioneer, started the earliest of Portland's annual Rose Festivals. Guided tours are available, but it's also worth visiting the grounds (free) simply to have a picnic while taking in the spectacular views. If you're up for a wander, the mansion lies along the Wildwood Trail in Forest Park, with dozens of miles of connecting trails branching off it.

11. Laurelhurst Park

A picturesque spring-fed pond is a favorite setting for locals to picnic. The gorgeous old trees and sprawling lawns of Laurelhurst Park were once part of a private farm, until the city of Portland bought the land and built a park in 1912 inspired by the landscape architecture Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed Central Park in New York City. It's a fantastic spot for people-watching, saying hello to cute dogs, and soaking up the summer sunshine – and the surrounding neighborhood is full of Portland's famously fine residential architecture.

12. Pioneer Courthouse Square

For a breather between bouts of sightseeing and shopping, head to Pioneer Courthouse Square. Grab a bite from one of the food carts here and settle onto the brick steps for grade-A people-watching, or bring a chess set and play at one of the square's painted or bronze chess boards.

13. Council Crest Park

At a peak perched in the Tualatin Mountains that form Portland's western edge, Council Crest Park offers stunning views of volcanoes on the distance, including Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Hood, and Mount Jefferson. An observation plaza indicates which peaks you're looking at in the distance as you turn to take in the 180 degree panorama.

14. Stark's Vacuum Cleaner Museum

A small sample of historical models collected by this large local retailer hangs on one wall of the Southeast Portland location. Since moving from its original space in 2017 to occupy a smaller portion of the store, with a new timeline of vacuum cleaners throughout history, you could say the museum sucks a little less than it used to.

15. Chinatown and Old Town

The sights of Portland's oldest neighborhood include tranquil cultural gardens, reverent waterfront monuments and underground passages storied with local lore. The core of rambunctious 1890s Portland, once-seedy Old Town had a well-earned reputation as the lurking ground of unsavory characters. Now it's home to some lovely historic buildings, plus Waterfront Park, the Saturday Market and a few good pockets of nightlife. Old Town is generally lumped together with the city's historic Chinatown – no longer the heart of the Chinese community (that's moved to outer Southeast) but still home to the ornate Chinatown Gateway and the Lan Su Chinese Garden.

16. The Simpsons Streets

The Simpsons creator Matt Groening grew up in Portland, and included many of the city's street names in the long-running cartoon. Portland has embraced Groening's quirky creativity right back and the city is full of avid Simpsons fans. You can treat yourself to a free walking tour of spots in the city that inspired Groening and use it as an opportunity to get oriented and experience some of the neighborhood's funky long-time neighborhoods. It's a perfectly cromulent way to spend an afternoon.

17. Mt. Tabor Park

Not many cities can say they have an extinct volcano in their midst, but that's exactly what Mt. Tabor is, despite the rows of pretty Craftsman Houses on its flanks and a popular park at its summit. There you'll find tennis courts, a rec center, trails for mountain biking trails, and plenty of places to stroll. Be sure to check out the large open water reservoirs surrounded by castle-like turrets, another 19th century example of the City Beautiful Movement, and Frederick Law Olmsted's influence.

18. The Eastbank Esplanade

The west bank of the Willamette River that runs through Portland has the Tom McCall Waterfront Park, but the east bank has the esplanade. This paved 1.5-mile path gives you a lovely panoramic view of downtown Portland's distinctive skyline, from the Burnside and Hawthorne Bridges to the Big Pink – what the locals affectionally call The U.S. Bancorp Tower. Dotted with sculptures and other artworks, the Eastbank Esplanade is a great spot to wander with a cup of coffee to-go or to experience by bicycle.

19. Lone Fir Cemetery

Dating back to the mid-19th century, Lone Fir Cemetery is a splendid garden-style resting place for some of the most influential figures in the last hundred and seventy years of Portland's history. With splendid mausoleums like that built by the MacLeay family, Lone Fir is a lovely place to walk, admire the ornate stonework monuments, and find a little peace and quiet in bustling Stumptown.

20. Hunting for horse rings

Like many cities that date back to the horse and buggy era, Portland had a number of rings embedded in its sidewalks that once were used to hitch your ride. While many cities removed their horse rings once the age of the automobile made them obsolete, Portland residents not only insisted the city maintain them, but continue to use them for a kind of community-wide art project or happening. Keep your eyes on the pavement – particularly downtown – and you might just find tiny toy horses and other figurines hitched up to the horse rings. It's all part of what makes Portland weird and wonderful.

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