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Free Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska

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free things to do in anchorage

Nearly 2 million tourists venture to Anchorage, Alaska each year. If you want to travel there on a budget, making an itinerary can help you save money. Try to include some of these free things to do in Anchorage if you are planning a trip.

Free Things to Do in Anchorage

Any time you travel, it is a good idea to include some low-cost activities on your to-do list to keep you within your budget. The following destinations are 100% free.

Alaska Heritage Museum

The Alaska Heritage Museum gives visitors a look at the history of the state. It also showcases different art and stories from the area. If you want to get an idea of the history behind the Alaskan wilderness, definitely check this free museum out!


Alyeska Roundhouse Museum

Alyeska is a ski resort in Alaska where many people travel each year. At the resort, you can ride a tram up the mountain to the Alyeska Roundhouse Museum. There you can get more information about the history of the resort. You can also see the ocean, two mountain ranges, and seven glaciers from within the structure.

Alaska Trooper Museum

Alaskan State Troopers have some of the roughest terrains to work on. As you can imagine, the first group of state troopers had to go through a lot of new, and vastly different, training. The Alaska Trooper Museum gives you a look at the history of the troopers.

The Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum focuses on the city’s history itself. At any given time, there will also be various local artists and creators who exhibit there. Admission prices are waived the first Friday of every month from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.

free things to do in anchorage

Campbell Creek Science Center

Campbell Creek Science Center is an outdoor attraction that is free of charge. Guides give you a tour through the conservation grounds and you get up-close-and-personal looks at wildlife. Many visitors have seen coyotes, wolves, and other breath-taking animals.

Check Out Thunderbird Falls

Thunderbird Falls is a great short hike to take while you are in Anchorage. It is only one mile long and it walks you right up to the beautiful falls. If you choose to do so, you can also walk down into the canyon to get a better look at the waterfall.

Take a look at other hiking, kayaking, and outdoor activities you might enjoy while you are in Anchorage as well. Many of these are free or low-cost and there are a plethora of options in the area.


Lousacc Library

Although the local public library wouldn’t normally be on a travel list of “must-sees,” the Lousacc Library is one of the most interesting buildings in Anchorage. Additionally, there is a great display of local art throughout the library as well as large selections of Alaskan literature and history. It is one of the more obscure free things to do in Anchorage.

Play Disc Golf

Believe it or not, there are there large disc golf courses in the Anchorage area. If you are an avid player and want to squeeze some time in during your visit, it is a great free activity to partake in while also visiting the local parks.

Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary

Birdwatchers and nature lovers should make time to stop by the Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary while you are in Anchorage. The marsh is home to hundreds of species of birds and animals at any given time, so there is no telling what you might spot during your visit.

Search Earthquake Park

In 1964, Alaska experienced a 9.2 magnitude earthquake that sent a neighborhood sliding into the ocean. Now, a park stands in its place. It is a good place to visit, take a walk or bike around, and it is an interesting piece of Alaskan history.

Take Lake Hood Floatplane Walking Tour

Lake Hood is the largest and busiest seaplane base in the United States. There are two walking routes around the base where you can see planes taking off and landing as well as the surrounding landscape. One route is a short one-hour tour of the grounds, the other route can take more than two hours to complete. Both are free of charge.

Visit the Anchorage Market

Shopping around is always something fun to do when visiting a new place. The Anchorage Market showcases many local small businesses, artists, and restauranteurs. Whether you are wanting to people watch or you are searching for the perfect souvenir, this is the perfect spot to go.

Walk the Lightspeed Planet Walk

One of the more peculiar free things to do in Anchorage is the Lightspeed Planet Walk. Along the pathway, you will see paintings of the plants. The time it takes you to walk between planets simulates how long it would take to travel in lightspeed. The distance from the sun to the Earth, for instance, is eight minutes on foot. To travel from the sun to Pluto takes between five and six hours.

Whale-Watch at Woronzf Park

Woronzf park is yet another one of Alaska’s wonders. From the park, you can see planes taking off, mountain ranges, the ocean, and even whales. It is a must-see while you’re there.

Cheap Stuff To Add to the Itinerary

Not everything you do on your trip can (or will) be free, but you can continue to keep costs low by including some cheaper activities. Each of the following costs less than $20 per person (and is well worth the money).

free things to do in anchorage

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a great place to visit in Anchorage. You can access the tour on foot or by car. Admission is free for kids under six. Non -residents pay $17 for entry into the center. Alaskan citizens, members of the military, and seniors pay an admission rate of $15 and students pay $13.

Alaska Botanical Gardens

Although Alaska’s typically cold climate would make many people think flowers and shrubbery don’t grow there, the botanical gardens can prove them wrong. Children over the age of seven pay $8 admission. Students, seniors, and military pay $10, and regular admission is $12.

Take a Tour of the Alaska Zoo

Alaska’s zoo is another must-see while you are visiting. Because of its location, there are different exhibits than you’d typically see. Non-residents will pay $17 admission, while residents pay $15. Seniors and military admission is $13, and child tickets cost $10. Don’t forget to check what shows and other attractions may be happening while you visit as well.

Readers, have you ever been to Anchorage? What was your favorite thing about your visit?

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How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees With WD-40

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Get rid of carpenter bees with wd-40

One of the many repair costs that home ownership entails is pest control. While not all pests would really fall under the “repair” category, carpenter bees can do real damage to your home. While renters should probably get in touch with the landlord to ensure the problem is dealt with permanently, homeowners may want to save some serious cash by trying a more… manual solution. This is where the WD-40 comes in. While it doesn’t seem like the tool you’d use for pest control, WD-40 can be pretty effective. Above all, it is cheap. So, how do you get rid of carpenter bees with WD-40?

Where to Buy WD-40

Honestly, you can get WD-40 everywhere. It is a lubricant solution that is sold in pretty much every hardware store, some grocery stores, and even many gas stations. It’s cheap and easy to find because t is extremely versatile. WD-40 can help with anything from quieting down a squeaky front door, to getting an old rusty skateboard moving again. In this case, it is taking on an even more unorthodox job. The compounds used to make it such a reliable and cheap lubricant also make it deadly to many pests. while it isn’t great looking if it drips on walls inside your home, the aesthetics of it don’t matter as much in the places carpenter bees tend to live.

How to Use It

Carpenter bees typically set up shop in “bee holes” under your fascia, deck, or inside any other wood structures. This usually entails a closed space that they can stay contained in, similar to the way honeybees hide in a hive. So, you will just grab your can of WD-40, and use the straw attachment to spray into the bee hole. Hold the spray down until you have gotten a good coat at every angle possible in the hole. While male carpenter bees can’t sting, females can. So, make sure you wear gloves and a long shirt or sweater in addition to protective eyewear. This will make sure you don’t get stung, and your skin and eyes are not exposed to too much WD-40.

While this may not be the most permanent solution, it is cheap and easy to repeat. So, saving on the hefty exterminator bills may be worth it if you’re willing to get your hands dirty yourself. With Carpenter bee removal costing anywhere from $75 to a few hundred dollars, it is worth giving it a try before calling on a professional.

Where to Get Free Air for Tires Near Me

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Free Air for Tires Near Me

There are so many wonderful money saving tips related to car maintenance and repair. And yet there is one that’s very overlooked: free air for tires. This article goes over why it’s important. Moreover, it answers the question, “Where is there free air for tires near me?”

Why Air in Your Tires Matters for Your Budget

Many people don’t even think about the air in their tires unless there is a problem. However, you should get in the habit of checking your air pressure regularly. That’s because having the right air pressure in your tires can save you a lot of money over time.

First and foremost, you get the most efficient gas mileage from your car if you have the right amount of air in your tires. Gas isn’t cheap. Therefore, every little bit that you can save when you fill up at the gas station can really add up over time. It’s helpful to remember this as a reason to check your air pressure, too, because habits are best formed when paired with another habit you already do. Therefore, you might always check your air pressure at the same time that you get gas.

Proper air pressure is also important to avoid accidents. The wrong air pressure can lead to tire damage which can lead to a car accident which can be dangerous as well as costly.

You want your car in tip top shape. The better you maintain it, the better it runs. The better it runs, the less likely you’ll have expensive maintenance and repairs costs. Your tires naturally lose air due to weather changes, road conditions, and other factors. Keeping them filled to the right pressure is an important habit.

Where to Get Free Air for Tires Near Me

Obviously, you don’t want to reduce the amount of savings that you get from proper tire maintenance by paying to fill up your tires with air. That would defeat the purpose. Take the time to do a little research about where to get free air for tires near where you live and work. Keep a list on your phone or in your glove compartment. That way you always know where to go when your tires need more air. Here are some of the best ways to find free air for tires near you:

Check Local Gas Stations

Your local gas station almost certainly has air for tires? However, they may or may not offer it for free. Places that sell air for tires usually only charge a dollar or two. But still, that’s a dollar or two that you could invest in something else. Therefore, you want to get familiar with the local gas stations that offer free air for tires.

If you live in, or are traveling through, the states of California and Connecticut then any gas station you stop at should have free air for tires. It’s a requirement in these states although do note that some places may require you to purchase gas first. If you’re in Florida on the Turnpike then pull off at a rest stop and there is likely to be free air available or air available free with purchase of gas.

In other states, you might not be as lucky, although many places will still be available. Here are some popular gas station / convenience store chains that offer free air for tires:

  • GetGo in the Midwest offers free air at some of its locations. In fact, you can use the Filter option on their Store Locator to choose those with free air.
  • Holiday Stationstores has over 500 locations across the following states: Alaska, Idaho, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming
  • QuikTrip offers free air at all of its 800+ US locations. This gas station chain can be found in eleven different states: Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. Use their store locator to find the location closest to you.
  • Royal Farms is an East Coast gas station / convenience store with more than 200 stores across five states. If a location has gas, then it also has free air. Fun fact: in 2014 the company was sued for charging for air in Baltimore, a city that has a law requiring gas stations to offer one free air pump. Store locator here.
  • Sheetz is proud to offer free air for tires at their 500+ locations. This convenience store is available in six states (see store locator): Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
  • Wawa is such a popular place to get free air that some locations added additional air pumps. Wawa has new stores opening in Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. They also have stores in Delaware and Washington DC. See store locator here.

This is not a comprehensive list. There are dozens of different gas station chains across the country. Check the ones closest to you.

Free Air at Tire Stores

Another obvious, but sometimes overlooked option, is to head to a tire repair shop, including the Tire Centers of big wholesale membership clubs. Of course, if you have actual tire damage them you’ll have to pay for repairs. But if you just need free air for your tires, here are some places that will provide it free of charge:

  • Atlantic Tire and Service is a good option if you’re located in North Carolina.
  • BJ’s is a popular wholesale club and its members are able to get free air for tires. You can also get your tires rotated, repaired, or replaced at their Tire Center.
  • Costco doesn’t have free air at the gas pumps but head to their Tire Center and you’re in luck. If you have a Costco membership, just head to a location with this service.
  • Discount Tire (which is also known as America’s Tire at most California locations) offers free tire air pressure checks at all of their locations. They’ll fill up the tire and check the treads for you at no charge. They ask that you schedule an appointment in advance but it isn’t always necessary. When you pull up, look for the sign that says “free air check.” Here is their store locator.
  • Firestone will also offer a free tire check. Many people come to stores like this when the Tire Pressure Light goes on in their car. As soon as you see it, find a place to get them checked.
  • Just Tires is another tire store that offers a free tire check.
  • Sam’s Club members get free air. Moreover, if you have a tire that actually needs repairs, they’ll repair it for free, whether or not you bought the tire from them.

Other Businesses With Free Air for Tires

Here are some of the other places that you might want to check:

  • Car dealerships – if you bought your car at a dealership then it’s worth asking whether or not they offer this service free of charge.
  • Car wash services will often include air for free; sometimes you have to buy the car wash but if it’s a DIY car wash then they may have a machine available for use.
  • Oil change companies such as Jiffy Lube and Pep Boys sometimes offer free air especially if you’re already there to get service.
  • Parking garages will occasionally offer this free service. For example, the UCSF parking garage in San Francisco is one such place.
  • Private mechanics and anywhere else where you get your car repaired may also offer this service if you ask.
  • Roadside assistance is good to remember if you actually get a flat tire while driving. AAA members, some credit cards with travel press, and your insurance are all options to look at if you’re trying ti find roadside assistance to fill up your tire for free in a pinch.

Look Online for More Free Air for Tires Near You

What if you’re out and about in a neighborhood that you’re unfamiliar with and don’t know where to get free air for your tires? Turn to the Internet, of course. One of the most popular options is to check FreeAirPump.com. Enter an address or zip code and find all of the options nearby for filling up your tires with free air.

Here are some other sites that you can check:

  • Reddit may have a thread that can help you out. Here’s one example.
  • Yellow Pages online is a surprising place that makes it easy to find free air for tires near you. Here’s an example from Leesburg, Virginia.
  • Yelp: just search for the best gas stations with free air near you. For example, here’s a list from Daly City, California.

Alternatively, you could always purchase your own tire gauge and a small air compressor. Then fill up your tires yourself. It’s not free, since you have to buy the machine, but it pays for itself over time.

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If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. If you want to be able to customize your blog on your own domain and need hosting service, we recommend trying BlueHost. They offer powerful hosting services for $3.95/month!

Extend the Life of Your Clothing

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Extend the Life of Your Clothing

Some of the best money tips aren’t trendy ones. Instead, they rely on looking back at the way people used to do things a century or more ago. For example, you can look to the past to learn to extend the life of your clothing. When clothes were made to last, and people repaired them again and again, much less money was spent on fashion. Learn how to take care of your own clothing well and reduce this aspect of your personal budget considerably.

First, Quit Fast Fashion

There are many ways to extend the life of your clothing. However, you have to begin with a good product. A low-quality product isn’t going to last for a long time no matter how well you take care of it. Therefore, it’s critical that we all start now by quitting fast fashion. It’s much more cost-effective to pay a little bit more for high-quality clothing (shop around, it doesn’t have to be a lot more) than to buy something cheap that only lasts for one or two wears.

Moreover, fast fashion isn’t just bad for your budget. It’s also bad for the planet. If you haven’t ever watched The True Cost documentary, go watch it now. It will give you great insight into all of the problems that exist with the fast fashion industry. You’ll feel better about yourself quitting fast fashion. Invest in solid, timeless pieces that are designed to last. Then learn how to extend the life of your clothing to get the most out of those pieces.

6 Tips For Buying Long-Lasting Clothing

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you switch away from fast fashion and towards items that last:

  1. Forego seasonal, trendy items. They usually aren’t designed to last. Moreover, even if they do last, you aren’t likely to wear them often. You want items you’re going to get a lot of wear out of over a long period of time.
  2. Feel the fabric. You want to choose thicker fabric. The New York Times recommends “a fabric weight of around six ounces per square yard” for t-shirts, for example, and 10-14 ounces per square yard for jeans. Of course, most of us don’t know what this means in practical terms so they further suggest: if you can see your hand through the fabric, it’s probably too thin.
  3. Generally speaking, choose natural fabrics (cotton, linen, wool) rather than polyester and other synthetic fabrics.
  4. Check the seams at the stress points (for example, the knees and elbows). These should be well-stitched and appear durable. Look for even stitching. Stretch it apart a little and check for strength and flexibility.
  5. For dressier clothes, make sure that they have a lining. Slacks and dresses with linings will generally last longer than those without.
  6. If you find a store and/or brand that you love for durable clothing, stick with it!

How to Extend the Life of Your Clothing

Once you have purchased the right clothing, then you need to properly care for it, wear it well, and learn how to repair what does get damaged over time.

Extend the Life of Your Clothing with Proper Care and Cleaning

One of the things that you should look at when purchasing new clothing is the label that tells you how to care for the item. If an item requires a lot of special care, then you should consider whether or not it’s worth the investment. If you’re the type who looks at a label that says, “dry clean only” and wonders if you can get away with tossing it in the washing machine, then you aren’t going to have clothes that last. You should skip the dry clean clothes if you’re not going to care for them properly. (Plus, it’s expensive to dry clean clothes, so if you want to save money on clothing, this isn’t a top choice.)

With whatever you do buy, follow the care instructions on the label. You can also research the best washing options for specific fabrics and fabric combinations. If you care for the fabric the way that it’s meant to be cared for, you will extend the life of your clothing.

7 Tips for Better Care of Clothing

With that in mind, here are some general guidelines for proper care to extend the life of your clothing:

  • Wash your clothes when they’re dirty but not before. You don’t want clothes to sit around with too much dirt on them as that can impact the fabric. However, if you only wore a pair of jeans for an hour and they’re still clean, you don’t need to wash them, yet. Be smart about how often you wash your clothing.
  • Change out of nicer clothes as quickly as possible. Change work clothes, school clothes, and dressy clothes right after you get home. Whether or not they need to be washed, at least you’re minimizing their usage.
  • Wash your clothes in cold water. It’s almost always unnecessary to wash clothing in hot water. Doing so often shortens their life span.
  • Wash your clothing inside out. If you iron your clothes, you can iron them inside out as well.
  • Dry your clothes on the line. The heat from the dryer isn’t good for your clothes. If you must use a dryer, try a low-heat or air-dry setting.
  • Use soft, natural detergents and cleaners. You can even make your own, which will likely save you money at home while you extend the life of your clothing.
  • Avoid stains by using aprons and napkins when cooking and eating. Spot clean any messes right away so that you don’t have long-lasting stains that ruin your clothing. If you have to use bleach, you’re shortening the lief span of your clothing.

Extend the Life of Your Clothing with DIY Repairs

The most obvious thing that you need to learn how to do to extend the life of your clothing is to learn how to sew. First of all, you should definitely know how to sew on buttons. They often fall off and yet they are so easy to repair and replace. Do it yourself to save costs instead of taking the clothing to a tailor.

Next, learn how to repair simple tears. With high-quality clothing, you shouldn’t see too many tears at the seams. Nevertheless, accidents happen. You don’t have to toss away a good piece of clothing when it has a simple tear in it. Instead, some simple sewing skills will help you extend the wearability of the item.

Embrace the distressed style. Certain clothing, such as jeans, can still be worn even after some damage. Rips in the knees of jeans are often on trend. Funky patches with a retro flair can also dress up torn jeans or a denim jacket. Also, look for ways to Upcycle / repurpose slightly damaged clothing. Cut off worn sweater sleeves; make a vest of the sweater and use the sleeves as leg warmers or arm warmers. Use very old clothing as cleaning rugs. Make the most out of every item before you throw it away.

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If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. If you want to be able to customize your blog on your own domain and need hosting service, we recommend trying BlueHost. They offer powerful hosting services for $3.95/month!

Does Costco Do Oil Changes?

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Does Costco Do Oil Change?
Does Costco do oil change? It seems like a reasonable question. After all, they offer auto maintenance, and oil changes are one of the most common types of auto maintenance required by every vehicle. And yet, there seems to be a lot of confusion about whether or not Costco will change your oil.

Why Oil Change is Important

We all know that we need to change the oil in our car regularly. But why? The short answer is that it keeps everything operating efficiently. Allowing your car to run on filthy oil makes it work harder. This wastes gas and stresses your vehicle.

How Often Must You Change Your Car Oil?

That said, many people waste money changing their car’s oil too frequently. The old thinking was that every car should have an oil change every 3000 miles. These days, though, most modern cars can go between 5000 and 10000 miles before an oil change.

Yes, you want to change your oil regularly. But no, you don’t have to change it every 3000 miles. Strike a balance and save yourself some money without doing damage to your car. Research what your own car needs; most likely an oil change every 7500 miles will be just fine.

Oil Changes at the Dealership

If you have purchased a car at a dealership, then you might just go directly to them for all car repairs and maintenance. In some cases, the dealership’s warranty makes this the best option. Often, however, getting basic service at the dealership costs you more money than it should.

Instead, you should consider other options. That’s why a lot of savvy shoppers want to know, “Does Costco do oil change?” After all, the store is known for its affordability.

So, Does Costco do oil change?

No. Costco does not do oil change.

Although Costco does have an automotive repair and maintenance center, the store’s services are extremely limited. They primarily offer services for tires through their stores that have a Tire Center.

What About With the Costco Auto Program?

You might be aware that this company offers the Costco Auto Program. Through this program, Costco has partnered with participating service providers to offer a discount to Costco members. You can use this program to save 15% off of parts, labor and accessories for your vehicle. You can save up to $500 per visit with this deal.

Unfortunately, though, oil changes are not included in the Costco Auto Program. Incidentally, it also doesn’t cover tires or air bags. So, while this program might be a great way to save money on other car maintenance and repairs, it’s not going to help you reduce the cost of your oil change.

Why Doesn’t Costco Do Oil Change?

While the reason that Costco does not do oil changes is speculative, Costco’s business model is designed around providing bulk goods, not highly personalized services. While they do have the Costco Tire Centers as an option, the service has generally received mixed reviews. This is a company that knows what their strengths and weaknesses are and perhaps that’s why they don’t offer oil change services. It’s simply not their strength.

So, Where Should You Get Your Oil Changed?

Costco won’t give you an oil change. You’ll need to come up with alternatives. We’ve already ruled out the dealership as a less than ideal option due to cost. That said, the dealerships does tend to have the most up-to-date equipment for brand new vehicles, so if you can get a good price at your dealership then it’s worth a try.

Another common option is to get your oil change at a commercial business specializing in this service. Firestone, Pep Boys and Jiffy Lube are businesses which operate in this market. The advantage of a commercial oil change business is they are typically cheaper than dealerships. Plus, they work specifically in this niche. If all that your car needs is an oil change, they can be a good choice. Moreover, Costco does sometimes have deals on gift cards for Jiffy Lube and other commercial businesses, so you can save money on an oil change with Costco even though they don’t provide the service themselves.

Find a trustworthy mechanic. It’s worth it to invest time to find a mechanic that you like and trust. You car will inevitably need repairs, in addition to the basic maintenance such as the oil change. Find one in your area that is affordable and does good work.

Change the oil yourself. Buy the oil that you need at a discount from Walmart, Amazon, or any other number of sources. In fact, even though Costco doesn’t do oil change, they do sell oil, so you might get it there. If you don’t know how to change your own oil, visit YouTube or ask for help from a friend with this knowledge. Doing your own car repairs can go a long way towards reducing the cost of car ownership. It’s worth it to learn at least the basics.

How to Save Money on Oil Changes

Buying oil at a discount and doing the oil change yourself is a great way to save money. However, it’s not the only option. Here are some additional tips:

  • Look for coupons and other deals. As aforementioned, Costco even sometimes has discounted gift cards for oil changes at places like Jiffy Lube. Check for other deals in your area any time that you need to get an oil change.
  • Ask your mechanic and / or dealership if they’ll match low prices. Sometimes they will and it certainly doesn’t hurt to ask.
  • Skip the upsell. Your auto mechanic is likely to suggest other things that you need every time that you get an oil change. However, if you don’t need an air filter, yet, don’t get one. Know what your car needs, and how often it needs it, and do just that but no more.
  • Bring your own oil to the mechanic. Did you know that you don’t have to buy your oil at the mechanic even if they do the job? You can usually bring your own and simply pay for labor. Therefore, get the discounted oil at a place like Costco then bring it with you to the auto shop.

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If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. If you want to be able to customize your blog on your own domain and need hosting service, we recommend trying BlueHost. They offer powerful hosting services for $3.95/month!

Free Things To Do in Montgomery, Alabama

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free things to do in Montgomery

Saving money when you are traveling can be difficult. Going to more obscure places, like Montogomery, Ala., can save you money. However, it is a good idea to have a list of free things to do in the area before departing so you have a plan. Here is a list of the best free things to do in Montgomery.

Free Things To Do in Montgomery, Alabama

Traveling on the cheap is easy when you have a plan for visiting free and cheap attractions. Anyone planning a trip to Montgomery should add the following stops on their itinerary.

Alabama Center for the Study for Civil Rights and African- American Culture

Located at Alabama State University, the Center for Civil Rights and African American Culture is an amazing place to see in Montgomery. Admission is free and gives you access to civil rights artifacts, documents, and memorabilia. It has a special focus on Montgomery and its role in the civil rights movement.

free things to do in Montgomery

Alabama Department of Archives and History

You can visit the Alabama Department of Archives and History for free. The archives building and state museum are open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Within the archives and history museum, there are more than 300 years of state history preserved.

Cooters Pond

Cooters Pond is another one of the free things to do in Montgomery. If you’re traveling with your pup, it is even better. The park has a dog park area where the pups can play. There are also plenty of trails and, of course, great scenery.

Eastbrook Antique Mall and Flea Market

Looking for something to bring home from a trip is always fun. Head over to Eastbrook Antique Mall and Flea Market to window shop. At the very least, you’ll get to see some cool stuff, and walking around is always free. Who knows, maybe you’ll find the perfect souvenir.

Hanks Williams Memorial & Grave

You can visit the gravesite and memorial for beloved icon Hank Williams and his close family members (wife, mother, and sister). For individuals who would like to visit and pay respect to someone who had a profound impact on the area and the country, this is a great stop.

Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama

Tours can be made by reservation to tour the Hyundai Motor factory in Alabama. There are set days of the week and times in which tours are permitted. Be sure to call ahead and confirm available times.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

Another great activity among the list of free things to do in Montgomery, Ala. is to visit the museum of fine arts.  The museum has more than 4,000 pieces of fine art including paintings, pottery, sculpture, porcelain, among other mediums. It is located within Blount Park, which has a number of walking trails and gardens. Admission is free.

The Mooseum

The Mooseum in Montgomery, Ala. is a museum run by Alabama’s Cattleman Association. The museum offers an opportunity for both children and adults to learn more about the cattle industry. See a film and be guided through the museum by a virtual cowboy. This is a free attraction, but some of the events and other activities there may cost money.

free things to do in Montgomery

Riverfront Park

This park is located near Montgomery, Ala. and has plenty of trails and gardens to explore. Not to mention, it is also home to some pretty amazing outdoor music and other live events. Admission to the park is free. On days there are live events, check the park website or call ahead to verify parking and admission details.

Shakespeare Gardens & Amphitheater

Shakespeare Gardens and Amphitheater is located within the Blount Cultural Park. This is one of seven gardens of its kind in the United States and features flowers mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays. Admission to the park is free.

Other Mentionable Low-Cost Activities

There are plenty of free things to do in Montgomery, but you may want to mix in a few other activities as well. The spots below have a low admission cost (or overall cost).

1048 Jazz & Blues

1048 Jazz & Blues is a jazz club that has live music every night of the week. There may be a cover charge some nights, however, it is a low-cost way to see some amazing live entertainment. If you are a fan of jazz or live music, this is a must while you are in Montgomery.

Dexter Parsonage Museum

The Dexter Parsonage Museum is actually located in the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It has been transformed into a museum and reflection garden. You can view photos of the 12 Dexter pastors, members of the bus boycott, and other significant civil rights events, as well as unpublished photos of Dr. King. Admission to the museum is $7.50 for adults and $5.50 for kids under 12.

Dexter King Ave Church

Inside the church, there is a mural of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., marking the church where the reverend first preached. Admission fees vary to the Dexter King Ave Church. There are some free or cheaper days. There are no available touring hours on Sunday. However, visitors are welcome to schedule a tour Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Montgomery Zoo

The Montgomery Zoo is another relatively cheap thing to do while you are visiting Alabama’s capital. Admission for children ages three through 12 is $13 and adults are $17 each. For larger families, this can get pricey. There are often deals and freebies that you can take advantage of though. With admission to the zoo, visitors also gain access to the Mann Museum.

Montgomery City Planetarium

Another great place to visit while in Montgomery is the city planetarium. The cost to visit is extremely low (only $7.50 per person). For that low fee, you can tour the facility, see a movie, and have a guided tour through the stars.

Old Alabama Town

Old Alabama Town is a 19th-century village with authentic 19th and early 20th century homes and storefronts. Each of the buildings was saved from demolition, restored, and reopened. Now, it serves as a history museum to teach visitors about how people used to live and work in Central Alabama. The village is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. It is fairly cheap too with adult admission just $10. Children ages six through 18 cost $5 and kids under five are free.

Rosa Parks Library and Museum

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum is another beautiful place to visit while you are in Montgomery. It includes both permanent and temporary exhibits that provide educational content throughout the year. Admission fees are as follows: adults, $7:50; children, $5.50. Members of the military, AAA, and AARP are all given a $1 discount.

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