50 Travel Experiences Across The U.S. That Are Completely Free
You’re overpaying for travel. And it’s costing you more than money. Americans spend an average of $2,000 per trip, yet most miss out on incredible free experiences hiding in plain sight. While tourists drop cash on overpriced attractions, locals know where the real magic happens—for zero dollars.
What if you could visit all 50 states without spending a dime on attractions? Imagine hiking through red rock canyons, watching the Northern Lights, exploring historic landmarks, and seeing wild ponies roam the beach—all for free.
No gimmicks. No cheap filler ideas. Just 50 of the best free things to do in every U.S. state—from Alaska’s glowing auroras to New York’s iconic Brooklyn Bridge walk. Every spot on this list is backed by expert recommendations, historical significance, and insider knowledge from locals who know their cities best. Travel smarter. Experience more. Spend less. Here’s how.
Alabama – Walk Through the Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Did you know Birmingham is home to one of the largest free botanical gardens in the U.S.? Spanning 67 acres, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens boasts over 30 themed gardens, serene Japanese gardens, and over 12,000 plant species.
It’s a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone needing a peaceful escape. Established in 1962, this hidden gem is open 365 days a year and completely free. You can learn about native Alabama plants or just take a scenic walk, this is the perfect stop.
Alaska – Watch the Northern Lights in Fairbanks
Want to see the Aurora Borealis without spending a dime? Head to Fairbanks between August and April, where your chances of catching the Northern Lights are over 80% on clear nights. The best free spots include Cleary Summit, Murphy Dome, and Chena Lakes—all just a short drive from the city.
With its unique location under the Auroral Oval, Fairbanks offers some of the best views of the Northern Lights in the world. Dress warm, bring a thermos, and let nature put on a show!
Arizona – Hike Cathedral Rock in Sedona
Hiking Cathedral Rock is like stepping into a postcard—towering red rock formations, panoramic canyon views, and a sunset glow that will leave you speechless. This 1.2-mile trail may be short, but it’s a steep climb—totally worth it for the Instagram-worthy views at the top! Sedona’s energy vortexes are said to bring peace and rejuvenation, making this not just a hike, but a spiritual experience.
Best part? It’s completely free, making it one of Arizona’s top attractions for budget travelers.
Arkansas – Explore Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Imagine seeing original works by Warhol, Rockwell, and O’Keeffe—without paying a cent! That’s exactly what you get at the Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville.
Funded by Walmart heiress Alice Walton, this museum is one of the best free cultural experiences in the U.S. Stroll through the scenic art trails, admire world-class American artwork, and explore the museum’s stunning architecture, designed by Moshe Safdie. Open since 2011, it has welcomed over 5 million visitors and remains 100% free to this day.