Family Adventures on a Budget. Free Things to do Across the US
Free things to do in the US
A family road trip across the United States is an exciting adventure. While we are exploring new destinations, I also want to keep in mind our budget. Although the US is full of amazing attractions and destinations, it is important to travel without spending too much money on excursions alone. There are so many adventures that are FREE, and it is my job to uncover those hidden gems to ensure our family adventures are filled with exciting memories.
This is a list I created of FREE attractions to help you when planning your next vacation. I try to find things to do within each state we travel that are FREE or really cheap. Follow the links to my blog post with more information on each attraction.
**Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The reviews of the items in this article are based on my own opinions. Throughout this post you will find tour options at some of the locations listed for more adventurous options while traveling. Prices are from 2024.
Arizona
Devil’s Bridge 3.6-mile round trip hike in Arizona
Sedona Stargazing Tour. Prices start at $120.00 per person
California
Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles, California
Visiting the Full House house in San Francisco, California
Cruise in a 1970’s Volkswagen Bus San Francisco Tour. Prices start at $85.00 per person
San Francisco Bike Tours can be booked online.
Big Sur California
Umbrella Alley - San Francisco, California
Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk in California
Colorado
Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Sightseeing Jeep tours at Garden of the Gods. Book this tour online. Prices start at $90.00
Pikes Peak Jeep tours you can book online. Prices start at $100.00
Florida
Beer Can Island (Greer Island) in Longboat Key - Beach in Florida with FREE parking
Disney Springs
Castillo De San Marcos - outside grounds are free. St Augustine
Take a Scenic Boat Ride in St Augustine. Prices start at $26.09 per person
Don’t get scared on the St Augustine Ghost Tour. Prices start at $25.00 per person
Georgia
Self-guided ghost tour of Savannah, Georgia.
Book a Savannah Ghost tour. Prices start at $36.33 per person.
Book a Popular Savannah Walking Tour. Prices start at $30.00 per person.
Illinois
The Bean (Cloud Gate)
Buckingham Fountain in Chicago, Illinois
Navy Pier - Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy a 90-minute Chicago River Architecture Tour. Prices start at $44.00 per person
Experience a thrill at the Skydeck Chicago. Prices start at $44.00 per person
Iowa
Snake Alley - Crookedest street in the world in Burlington, Iowa
Nevada
Seven Magic Mountains 20 minutes outside of Las Vegas, Nevada
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
Grand Canyon Helicopter tour. Prices start at $504.37
The Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas
Freemont Street Experience
Texas
Visiting Magnolia Market at The Silos in Waco, Texas
Fixer Upper Tour and city tour can be booked online. Prices start at $84.50 per person.
Utah
Toadstool Trailhead in Kanab, Utah
Forrest Gump Point in Mexican Hat, Utah
Hell’s Revenge 4x4 tour can be booked online. Prices start at $161.03
Arches and Canyonland 4x4 Adventure tour in Moab, book online. Prices start at $336.96
National Parks
Purchase an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass which allows for free entrance into any of the National Parks.
FREE PRINTABLE LIST
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Free Boondocking
While we are traveling across the US in our campervan, I like to be able to find FREE places to camp. I always say, the more I save, the more we can do. See the list of FREE boondocking locations across the US that we have personally stayed at and recommend.
By seeking out free family-friendly adventures, you can create lasting memories without spending too much money. From exploring scenic landmarks to immersing in colorful experiences, the possibilities are endless.
This will be an ongoing list that I will add to as we visit more FREE attractions. I will only add locations that we have personally visited so I can give you an accurate and honest review of the area. Click on the links for more details of each location throughout my blog. Bookmark this post for later. 📍
I have so many new places on my list of places to see that I cannot wait to share with you. Keep checking back for updates. What is your favorite FREE attraction in the US? Comment below. 👇
Enjoy your journey,
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Meet the author: Jennifer
I’m just a girl who loves to travel. 🏝️🏔️🛶 My favorite travels have been traveling across the US in a campervan, visiting all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, marking National Parks off my list, & many smaller trips. I love to share my adventures to inspire others to travel more. If you can dream it, you can do it! Want the whole story?
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