Play tourist in your town with these fun ways to explore without breaking the bank: Video

USA Today

25-05-2025

Play tourist in your town with these fun ways to explore without breaking the bank: Video
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How to save money while exploring your city
Play tourist in your own town without breaking the bank.
Problem Solved
It's easy to get bored in a place you've lived in for a long time. You know the sights, sounds and smells. You might occasionally stop and admire the murals that you've walked by hundreds of times, which could lead you to stumble upon other hidden gems in your area, like a series of tiny doors painted across your town, an incredible art exhibit or the legend behind The Tree That Owns Itself.
However, visiting some of the popular attractions in any city can quickly add up. Consider some of these free alternatives to get you out and exploring, without breaking the bank.
Watch this video for free and easy ways to explore your city.
Things to do near me
You might be familiar with your town, but do you really know it? It could be known for the art scene with murals on buildings or if it's brimming with history, but have you ever stopped to read the signs detailing the history of your town square or the story behind the landmark you've passed every day for years? What better time to find out than now! You may even be able to find local scavenger hunts or art walks that can guide you and teach you if you're unsure of where to start.
Social media makes it so much easier to find things happening in your area. You can find local influencers or community groups that share details about free events or share spots that you have never heard about before. Hashtags can be helpful. Search tags like #exploreAtlanta or #thingstodoinNYC to get an idea of what might be of interest. You're probably not the only person looking for free and unique ways to pass the time, so see what people are saying on places like your local Facebook group, subreddit or Nextdoor.
Having fun isn't hard if you've got a library card! See what free passes your library offers. Many have ways to get you free access to places like museums, zoos, aquariums and state parks, simply by having a library card.
If you are willing to spend some money, see if there is a CityPASS available in your area. These passes offer discounted rates to popular attractions and can help you enjoy what your town has to offer at a fraction of the price.
Flaneur
Become a flaneur!
If you're unfamiliar with the term, Cambridge Dictionary defines it as 'someone who walks around not doing anything in particular but watching people and society.' This could involve people watching or meandering towards the sound of church bells or live music.
If being entirely aimless isn't your thing, there is a way to add a bit of structure to it. Consider making a list of 'instructions' to follow to help you as you wander. It could include:
Get on the next bus and ride it until someone with glasses gets on.
Take the next right after you pass three people wearing red.
Take a right when you see someone wearing a baseball cap.
Take the second right after you pass someone walking their dog.
Take a left after you pass a school, place of worship, or landmark.
Order a coffee at the next cafe and sit outside until you see two women walking together, then head to the right.
Get creative with it! This can be especially fun for kids to flex their creative muscles by thinking up fun combinations.
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Online activities
If you can't get out and about, see what online activities you can find! The beauty of this is that it's not location-specific!
For example, the Georgia Aquarium has live feeds to some of its exhibits. Plus, it also offers some on-demand virtual yoga if you want to get a stretch on. Or you can explore galleries and museums around the world from the comfort of your couch with the help of Google Arts & Culture.