We’re all feeling the pinch of inflation these days, but, thankfully, we can find a little relief by taking advantage of free services and products. From skin care to entertainment to delicious treats, here are some of the best summer freebies for you … and you won’t have to pay a dime, sis.
Recreation & Entertainment
1. Free admission to national parks. Every year, the National Parks Service offers several free-entrance days. Head to your nearby national park on September 24, National Public Lands Day, when parks that usually charge admission will waive admission fees.
2. Free museum admission. The annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day falls on September 17 this year. Get free admission for two at participating museums and cultural centers. You’ll have to register and download your tickets ahead of time. Also, check your state and county’s official websites to see if they have free admission initiatives throughout the summer. For example, in Connecticut, children 18 and under and one accompanying adult can get into museums and other destinations for free this summer through the Connecticut Summer at the Museum program.
3. Free live events, classes and more. Look no further than your local library for summer entertainment and activities. You’ll find numerous fun and free things to do, from concerts to fitness classes to trivia night. Hop onto your library’s website for the latest happenings, and check out our guide to library freebies for more goodies and services you can get for free.
4. Free National Geographic subscription. Embark on new adventures with a complimentary one-month digital subscription to NatGeo.com.
5. Free outdoor sports. Check with your town or city’s recreation department for free sports and fitness events. For example, in New York, Hudson River Park offers free kayaking, and many beaches and parks across the country offer free yoga. Also, check your local outdoor goods stores; they often run free demonstration events where you can try stand-up paddleboarding or other water sports.
6. Free bowling. Sign up your kids or grandkids for the Kids Bowl Free program, and they’ll receive two free games at participating bowling centers every day this summer. Find nearby locations at kidsbowlfree.com.
7. Free plays and outdoor concerts. Summer is your chance to catch quality plays and shows for free. Many cities and towns offer weekly concerts and outdoor plays run by professional theater groups. To find events near you, search online for “free events” followed by your town or city’s name.
8. Free roller-skating. For a bit of nostalgia, head to your nearest roller-skating rink. Kids can get two free skate passes each week this summer through the Kids Skate Free program. Find participating roller-skating rinks at kidsskatefree.com.