Free things to do in the 50 States

The Citi Pond at Bryant Park’s second annual Winter Film Festival has begun. The free-to-the-public, four-week outdoor movie series runs every Monday night through Feb. 13.

Charleston, W. Va., is a family-friendly city full of great things to see and do for people of all ages. In addition to a great variety, everything is nearby. In fact, you could fill a day with shopping dining and recreation without ever having to get back in your car. And those places that do require a car trip are quick and easy to get to.

When was the last time you heard someone say, "We're going to Wichita, Ks" in total excitement? Probably, never. Why on earth would anyone want to go to a place known mostly for its cattle-flecked prairies and acres of wheat in the middle of nowhere? It may not be a top vacation pick for most, but I'm here to say that it's so much more than what people think.

This winter season, Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, Calif., are offering free and discounted skiing and lift tickets. Squaw and Alpine combined this fall, allowing skiers to access both resorts with one lift ticket or season pass.

Kids Ages 4 and Under Ski Free
Kids ages 4 and under can ski and ride for free at Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows. Parents can choose between getting a complimentary season pass for their little ones under the age of five, or pick up a daily free lift ticket at any ticket window.

Fly & Ski Free
Guests just off the airplane can ski or ride the afternoon for free at Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows. Guests can present a same-day commercial airline boarding pass with a matching photo ID at Squaw Valley’s Tickets, Passes and Snowsports Center or Alpine Meadow’s special tickets window and receive a complimentary lift ticket good for the rest of the afternoon as well as night skiing, when night operations are in effect. See squaw.com/fly-ski-free for more information.

Free Lift Tickets for Active Duty Military
In recognition of U.S. military personnel, Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows offer complimentary lift tickets for active-duty military members every Sunday through Friday, excluding holidays. To redeem, military can present proof of active duty status at Squaw's Tickets, Passes and Snowsports Center at the base of the mountain of Alpine Meadow’s special tickets window in the main lodge.

About Squaw Valley
Host of the 1960 Winter Olympics, Squaw Valley is internationally renowned for legendary terrain that spans 3,600 skiable acres, six peaks and 30 chairlifts, and ranges from an expansive mountaintop beginner area to unrivaled expert steeps, trees and bowls.

About Alpine Meadows
Ranked as a top winter resort by SKI Magazine, Alpine Meadows is known for its abundant and varied skiable terrain, family-friendly atmosphere, and innovative children’s ski and snowboard programs. Alpine’s seven powder bowls, summit-to-base groomed slopes, and authentic hospitality are among the many attributes that have made the resort a favorite of the local community and visitors alike. 

Teresa J. Shaw is editor of the Free in 50 States section and also writes about Southeast Michigan for Traveling Mom. Visit her blog and follow her on Twitter at @TeresaShaw.

Marshfield, Wisc. is located in Wood County in central Wisconsin. The town offers small city charm with Midwestern hospitality and several free family activities.