20. Always Google what’s going on in your destination before you arrive. Keep an eye out for free live events—there are often summer music series, movie nights, and daytime dance parties on offer at local parks and waterfronts.
21. Gallery-hop to get a sense of the local art scene and enjoy some much-needed AC while you’re at it—think of these spaces as free micro-museums (though you may be tempted to break out your wallet and buy a piece while you’re there).
22. Check to see if museums where you’re visiting offer free admission during select hours, then plan accordingly—New York City’s The Whitney, for instance, has Free Fridays from 7 to 10 p.m.
23. Find a beautiful park, grab a beach blanket or towel, and spend an hour or two reading a book (and people-watching) outdoors.
24. Check in advance to see when the local food or farmers markets are on in your destination. They’re a great way to mingle with residents, discover endemic cuisine and produce, and, hey, there may even be free samples.
25. Use the Meetup app to make friends and attend events nearby.
26. Head to the roof—whether it’s a rooftop bar or an observation deck, you’re guaranteed the best views of your destination when you’re elevated.
27. Use the weather app on your phone to find out what time the sun sets in your destination so you can catch it.
28. Enjoy the open air while doing something a little different. Depending on the month, head to a lavender field or pumpkin patch on the outskirts of a city to enjoy fresh air and scenic views.
29. Check for ‘soft launches’ or free-to-public opening nights in your destination. You could be checking out one of the soon-to-be hottest new restaurants or galleries in town and saving a lot of money in the process.
30. Look up local open-container laws—if it’s allowed, grab a bottle of local wine or beer and enjoy happy hour in a public space, like you might in your own city. (We know, the drinks aren’t free, but the scenic setting sure is.)
31. If you’re using public transportation to get around a new city, make a point to get off one or two stops earlier than you need to—you never know what you’ll stumble upon in those few blocks before your final destination.
32. Use Duolingo to learn the basics of a new language before an international trip (or, at the very least, on the flight over). It’ll be worth it when you can greet your Airbnb host in their own language, or order your morning coffee without having to point.
