HACK 66 Visit Tourist Attractions for Free

Admission to your local museum, zoo, or cultural site can cost more than $20 for a single day of fun. But almost every one of those destinations offers a free or reduced admission day. Some offer the same day or evening each week, while some offer a monthly event.

Determine when their special admission days take place and what their prices are. You can probably put together a schedule with a free admission available almost every day of the week. Look for terms like:

Keep a close eye on museum and other sites’ calendars for events with partner organizations, as well. Smaller art galleries, animal rescues, or educational centers that partner with bigger museums may offer even lower admission rates or even be free to visit all the time.

You’ll also want to keep an eye out for Smithsonian Magazine’s Free Museum Day, when museums around the country offer free admission on the same Saturday. You’ll need to reserve your spot online in advance and be prepared for crowds.