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London, Paris, New York, and More, for Free

Crowd watching Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas (Photo: Dieter Spears/iStockPhoto)
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Editor's Note: This story was originally published on November 10, 2008. To see the most recent SmarterTravel articles on related topics, please click on any of the following links: arts and culture, beach, Boston, Chicago, culinary travel, destination, free travel, Las Vegas, London, Miami, museum, national park, New York City, Orlando, Paris, San Francisco, Sarah Pascarella, shopping, Washington, D.C..

In today's tough economic climate, everyone's looking for a bargain, and there's nothing better than free. Luckily, our 10 destinations are full of attractions that don't cost a cent. If you find yourself heading to one of these popular cities, be sure to check out its freebies.

Las Vegas

It's easy to spend money in Las Vegas, with its endless casinos, nightclubs, restaurants, and boutiques. However, the cost-conscious traveler can find more than a few free options.

My personal favorite is the fountains at the Bellagio. Set to music ranging from classical to pop, the fountains dance and swirl, reaching spectacular heights. Linger outside for awhile—there's a free show every half hour during afternoons, and every 15 minutes in the evenings.

While it's no Cirque du Soleil performance, the Sirens of Treasure Island try their darndest to put on a good show. You'll see pretty ladies, burly pirates, and a whole lot of sound-and-light effects. There are four shows each night—just look for the crowds outside Treasure Island's front entrance. And if you're staying at the hotel, you can snag a VIP spot.

See how gourmet chocolate is made with a free tour of Ethel's Chocolate factory. Tours are self-guided, or you can request a guide for groups of 10 or more. There is also a botanical cactus garden open to the public. Visit daily between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.

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For more options, check the free attractions listings on Vegas.com.

 
 

Archived Comments:

  • Jen - November 10, 2008

    Some museums (the Met and Natural History Museums) have suggested donations - I've seen people "suggest" paying a quarter!

  • Anne - November 10, 2008

    Music and Markets We've often enjoyed free concerts in the beautiful old churches of Paris - such as St. Roch.

  • Miles of Smiles Travel - November 11, 2008

    One of my favorite things to do when I have people visit from out of town to Chicago is to go to the 96th floor of the John Hancock Building and have a glass of champagne. The view is spectacular (one of the best views if from the women's rest room). If you want something to eat, you can order in the Lounge or go down to the Dining room and have a lovely meal on the 95th floor.

  • Laura - November 13, 2008

    I spent a summer in London and very rarely paid for any attractons. Camden Market is great for browsing and people-watching. Also, on weekend afternoons in Leceister Square, there are often major movie premieres. It's fun to see stars and maybe get some autographs!

  • sam armah emmanuel - January 22, 2009

    I want to travel to london .I want to get a map of london.

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