AARP Hearing Center
Peter Arkle
You know what the best price is for something? Zero dollars. Free. No charge. And there are a surprising number of things that will cost you nothing more than the air you breathe. Whether you’re looking for ways to stretch your retirement savings or simply avoid opening your wallet, here are 16 freebies to take advantage of.
1. Free entry to national parks
The National Park Service manages more than 430 parks, monuments, historic sites and other natural and cultural landmarks, from Acadia in Maine to Zion in Utah. Most are free year-round, but even the 100 or so that regularly charge admission waive entrance fees on select days. Here are the free dates for 2026:
- Feb. 16: Presidents Day (Washington’s Birthday)
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day/President Donald Trump’s birthday
- July 3-5: Independence Day weekend
- Aug. 25: 110th birthday of the National Park Service
- Sept. 17: Constitution Day
- Oct. 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday
- Nov. 11: Veterans Day
Speaking of veterans, members of the military, military veterans and Gold Star Family members can get a pass for free entry to national parks. For others, it’s not free, but it can be a bargain: People age 62 and older can purchase a lifetime senior pass to the national parks for just $80 (plus a $12.50 processing fee). Up to three individuals age 16 and older who are in the car with a person holding a lifetime senior pass also get in free. (Children under 16 are always admitted for no cost.) Don’t overlook state parks, many of which are free for state residents.
2. Free fishing
All 50 states have days when you don’t need no stinkin’ license to fish. In Montana, for example, you can fish for free on both Father’s Day weekend and Mother’s Day weekend. In 2026, California lets you fish for free on July 4 and Sept. 5. Check out your state’s government or tourism website to find out when you can cast your net without a license.
Peter Arkle
3. Free fireworks displays
Nearly every major city has free legal fireworks on the Fourth of July. But if you want the most bang for no bucks, consider taking a trip to Addison, Texas, whose Kaboom Town offers 1,500 pounds of fireworks, live entertainment and air shows. Or head north to Boston to catch the annual Boston Pops Orchestra performance, complete with Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and cannons. New Orleans celebrates Independence Day along the downtown riverfront with not only fireworks but also a water show with plumes of red, white and blue fountains from a fireboat.
4. Free dental care
If you have a low income and a dental problem, you may be able to get free dental care in your state via Dental Lifeline Network. Typically, you need to lack adequate income for a dental visit and be 65 or older, have a permanent disability or require medically necessary dental care.
5. Free education
Many state colleges offer tuition-free classes for older adults. For example, Ohio residents age 60 and older can attend class at any state college for free; the same is true for people 60 and older in South Carolina. Some states require you to pay lab fees and other associated costs.
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