Free Family Fun in Big Cities

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

31 May 2009 10:12 PM

If you are spending a bundle on gas or airfare to travel to a major U.S. city this summer, then you might consider taking time to visit the following attractions. They're not only family-friendly and educational, but they won't cost you a penny to experience.

MISSOURI

No trip to St. Louis would be complete without a pit stop at the brick Main Street of Saint Charles. The iconic attraction is celebrating the start of summer with weekend entertainment in honor of the city's 200th anniversary. The free entertainment is just one of 200 events being held in St. Louis this year. Another cheap thrill: You can borrow an iPod from the tourism office and take a free audio/video tour.

UTAH

Each year, millions of tourist flock to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in Salt Lake City. If you are planning to make the trip this summer, consider showing up on a Thursday. That's when the choir rehearses at 8 p.m. for 90 minutes at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Conference Center. You can enjoy the sweet sounds for free. Otherwise, show up on Sunday when the choir performs at 9:30 a.m.

TENNESSEE

If music's your thing, then take a ride on Nashville's Honky Tonk Highway, a stretch of restaurants and clubs along Lower Broadway. While there you can listen to hot country tunes for free. Many legends got their start along the Honky Tonk Highway and occasionally, a star drops in to play a set.

TEXAS

Houston is heating up this summer with a slew of free family-friendly activities. One noteworthy event takes place at the Miller Outdoor Theatre in Houston's Herman Park. The theatre just underwent a $2.4 million renovation that improved seating, sound and sight lines. If you plan well you can watch unique performances from big name stars for free. This summer's highlights include the Houston Symphony and Chinese acrobats. Tickets for the 1,708 covered seats are available on the day of the show on a first-come, first-served basis. There's also plenty of lawn seating.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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