Minnesota has nearly endless ways to have fun. From camping in state parks to dining out at our best restaurants, there’s something to interest just about everyone. Unfortunately, many of these things cost money. Luckily, there are plenty of great things to do in Minnesota that don’t cost a dime. These 10 activities across the state are completely free, and they’re so good that you can’t afford to miss them....
There’s something about summertime and BBQ that just go hand in hand. Sitting outside on a picnic table with some delicious BBQ and all the fixings is the perfect way to kick off summer, so we’ve found some of the best BBQ restaurants to indulge yourself in. BBQ West BBQ West/Facebook David L./Trip Advisor This no-frills BBQ joint is bursting with flavors. You know a place is good when even the sides are just as delicious as the main course....
Northeast Ohio is a gem of a region, hiding historic structures and lovely landscapes alike. Locals can’t get enough of the culture here, and it seems that every day brings new discoveries. That’s especially true when it comes to history, which is abundant in our region. In fact, you may even find yourself living in an incredibly historic community. See if your hometown made the list! Medina, Medina County OZinOH/Flickr This enchanting community is just a short drive south of Cleveland, and roughly 27,000 residents call this lovely place home....
Iowa is starting to turn bright with the colors of fall and everywhere Hawkeyes are planning their autumn vacations. If you’re looking for a getaway idea, head to the tiny town of Bellevue, where you’ll be overwhelmed with the natural beauty of this river town. The tiny town of Bellevue, Iowa is home to about 2,000 of Iowa’s luckiest citizens. Facebook / Moon River Cabins This gorgeous town is truly a hidden gem — located right on the Mississippi River, a scenic drive away from Iowa’s best parks, home to a few of the best parks themselves, and the town is full of great places to grab a bite to eat....
Who’s ready for an adventure? At the following state park in Maryland, you can hike, swim, and even search for 20 million year old fossils. Sound like your kind of day trip? Then check out this scenic spot that never disappoints. Calvert Cliffs State Park is located in Lusby, Maryland. Google Maps This spot is known for its sprawling views of the bay and of course, the clay cliffs. TripAdvisor / whereletsgo...
Giddy up, Georgians…it’s time to visit one of the coolest steakhouses in the state. This rustic restaurant is a no-frills spot that you can sidle up to when hunger hits and get a massively delicious meal. Don’t expect fine dining and polished silverware at this steakhouse. But instead, imagine yourself walking through swinging doors, spurs clicking on your heels, and a perfectly cooked steak fit for any Georgia cowboy or cowgirl....
Lunch counters are a retro spots where you can belly up to a delicious meal in a no-fuss setting. The oldest lunch counter in Illinois is hiding behind a beyond-quaint storefront and you’ll definitely want to check it out. Here’s what you need to know about Doc’s Soda Fountain. Tucked away on historic Route 66, Doc’s Soda Fountain is a true blast from the past. Facebook/Doc’s Soda Fountain This quaint lunch counter has been around since the 1880s and has been serving tasty grub since the 1950s....
Have you ever wanted to dine amongst the treetops? This restaurant just outside of Milwaukee is straight out of a storybook, and the name is just fun to say! From incredible burgers to sweet and delicious frozen custard, this treehouse restaurant is a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Welcome to Georgie Porgie’s Treefort Restaurant! Georgie Porgie’s Treefort Restaurant - Oak Creek/Google Local This awesome treehouse restaurant is a short 10-minute drive from Milwaukee!...
Mark your calendar. And, carve out time on the next Friday you’ve got a couple of hours – or more – free for a trip to this massive, quirky market in Pennsylvania. Browse the dozens of indoor and outdoor vendors for terrific treasures – from fresh food to antiques. Green Dragon Farmers Market in Pennsylvania has a little bit of everything and something for everyone. Join generations of Pennsylvanians who have made Green Dragon Farmer’s Market and Auction a Friday tradition....
Although we can’t deny that the best parks in the state are off the beaten path, it isn’t always practical to travel hundreds of miles to enjoy the great outdoors. Those who live the 9-5 life will be delighted to learn that many cities have urban parks that offer plenty of free activities and sunshine to brighten up even the most monotonous of days. Klyde Warren Park in Dallas has brought the city together in unimaginable ways since its construction, and everyone should visit at least once....
Fall is just around the corner and while everyone is going gaga over pumpkin spice, I’m anticipating all things apple. If you agree that apple cider is the perfect complement to autumn, then you’ll love the following shop in Maryland. Head here to stock up on jugs of cider, apple butter, honey, and more. A trip to McCutcheon’s Factory Store is always a treat. McCutcheon’s Factory Store is a hidden gem, which is located in Frederick, Maryland....
You’d be surprised how many people have never heard of McDonald Observatory – though I suppose it’s understandable given its incredibly remote location. Nevertheless, it’s a place that belongs on every Texan’s bucket list. Due to the extreme lack of light pollution in the West Texas desert, the unadulterated night sky sparkles above in all its starry glory. Located high atop the Davis Mountains of West Texas, McDonald Observatory is one of the world’s leading astronomy centers....
It is no secret that this has been an incredibly dry year in terms of weather, but despite this, there are still places in Colorado that are vibrantly lush. Need proof? Visit this green spot in Colorado that will transport you to a verdant new world: Welcome to Rocky Mountain National Park, which spans 265,461 gorgeous acres and offers amazing opportunities to get out into the wilderness, see some wildlife, and find a sense of wonder....
We’ve had a lot of lake love this summer for the beautiful bodies of water in Kentucky, and there are countless places to swim, fish, boat, or even just relax on a beach. With so many lakes and parks in our state to choose from, it’s important to look at the features of each place to see which one best meets your needs. If you’re still looking for a favorite, then there’s a good chance Pulaski County Park on Lake Cumberland has what you want....
Antique shopping is one of those activities that seems to never go out of style. People have been visiting antique shops for decades and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. There seems to be something magical about visiting a shop full of vintage treasures. It’s almost like getting a brief glimpse into the past and there’s a feeling of incredibility that comes with physically touching something that is decades, maybe centuries, old....
When it comes to visiting small towns in the Sooner State, Medicine Park is at the top of my list. Why? It’s simple. It has a little bit of everything; from beautiful scenery to unique shopping to delicious food, there’s no shortage of things to do in this tiny town. Take a look: Medicine Park is best known for its quaint, cobblestone streets overlooking the gorgeous Medicine Creek at the edge of the Wichita Mountains in southern Oklahoma....
Sometimes a lazy river at a water park can be a fun way to spend the day. And sometimes, only a real river will do. For this excursion, The New River is the destination — an all-day float trip that is not to be missed. River Expeditions in Oak Hill provides various water excursions on the New River and Gauley River. For those who are not experienced with rafting, or have children with them, River Expeditions offers a Scenic Float Trip package....
When I crave Mexican food, I want A LOT of it at once… can anyone else relate? Since ordering five different entrees from a restaurant may not be practical or affordable, I have good news, as this delicious South Dakota Mexican restaurant serves a buffet of fresh and flavorful fare: Located in Sioux Falls is the must-visit Casa del Rey; a family-owned-and-operated restaurant that has been serving the community since 1979....
A good plate of nachos is really all you need to turn a “meh” day into a spectacular eating experience, wouldn’t you say? Whether you’re a fan of ooey-gooey cheese and crispy chips or find all the joy in the world from creamy guacamole and ripe, flavorful tomatoes, a plate of nachos is sure to give you all the lunchtime satisfaction you need. Here in Nashville, we fell in love with this Edgehill Village restaurant the moment it opened and even the fanfare of new eateries across town can’t dim our obsession…...
If you’re looking for that picture perfect place with a little bit of everything right at your doorstep, then you need not look any further. This charming small town has it all. Beautiful scenery, great outdoor recreation, tons of local businesses including restaurants and more, a fascinating history, and just about anything else you can think of. All of that and it’s packed into one little place with a population just over 1,240 residents....
