Summary of Free Attractions
- Central Park Walking Tours – New York, N.Y.
- The British Library – London, England
- Laumeier Sculpture Park – St. Louis, Mo.
- Bridge of Glass – Tacoma, Wash.
- WaterFire – Providence, R.I.
- Grouse Grind – Vancouver, Canada
Free Attractions
- Central Park Walking Tours: New York, N.Y.
- Central Library: Seattle, Wash.
The British Library: London, England
If you love the written word, the British Library’s little-known, free exhibition is a must. The changing selection from the Treasures of the British Library collection might include a Gutenberg Bible, Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, or an 1,100-year-old Chinese copy of the Diamond Sutra — the world’s oldest known complete printed book. Handwritten Beatles lyrics sit beside manuscripts by Jane Austen, Tenniel’s illustrations for Alice in Wonderland, and an original copy of the Magna Carta. The Library is just up Euston Road from St Pancras International Station, making it a great way to spend an hour or two before your train to Paris.
- Cleveland Museum of Art: Cleveland, Ohio
- Chicago Cultural Center: Chicago, Ill.
- Lombard Street: San Francisco, Calif.
Laumeier Sculpture Park: St. Louis, Mo.
Charging nothing to enter this 105-acre grassy space of rolling hills and wooded areas marked by brightly colored and innovative art sculptures feels almost unjust. Occasional events like Laumeier Sculpture After Dark and Makers Nights add to the park’s charm. This beautiful park also includes a 1.4-mile walking trail, which is perfect for leisurely strolls. Don’t leave without checking out the park’s most famous sculpture: “The Way” by Alexander Liberman, a bright red piece inspired by Greek temples. Works by Sol LeWitt and Mark di Suvero are also present.
- Jockey Club: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Grant’s Farm: St. Louis, Mo.
- Darling Foundry: Montreal, Canada
- East Side Gallery: Berlin, Germany
Bridge of Glass: Tacoma, Wash.
Dale Chihuly’s glass artwork can be found in many places; however, nowhere else will you find such a stunningly large collection on display for free. The Bridge of Glass spans over I-705 in Tacoma, connecting downtown with the Thea Foss Waterway and the Museum of Glass. This pedestrian-only bridge features hundreds of pieces of Chihuly’s work, providing an overview of his artistry. It also offers great views of Mt. Rainier on clear days and downtown Tacoma.
- Theodore Roosevelt Island: Washington, D.C.
- The Redpath Museum: Montreal, Canada
WaterFire: Providence, R.I.
WaterFire attendees experience the magic of this multi-sensory festival, often considered an interactive art exhibit. More than 100 braziers along Providence’s downtown rivers are set ablaze during the festivals, creating a warm glow and blending with the melodies of opera music. The festival relies on donations and is run by dedicated volunteers. These festivals typically occur during the summer and fall months, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples.
- Cologne Cathedral: Cologne, Germany
- Cleveland Public Library: Cleveland, Ohio
- Tiergarten: Berlin, Germany
- Jim Beam American Outpost: Louisville, Ky.
Grouse Grind: Vancouver, Canada
“What’s your grind time?” is a common question among Vancouverites. It’s a local rite of passage to make the 2.9km (1.8 miles) climb up Grouse Mountain during the warmer months. The trek up “Mother Nature’s Staircase” is free, and at the top, you can enjoy a well-deserved snack after tackling 2,830 stairs. This invigorating hike usually takes between an hour and a half and two hours. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and take your time!
