Enjoy Priceless Entertainment With These 5 Free Twin Cities Activities

Save your entertainment dollars! The Twin Cities are full of entertaining and educational things to do that cost absolutely nothing. We're giving you a head start with this list of our five favorite activities and events.

1. 331 Club
331 - 13th Avenue NE
Minneapolis 55413

Are you a music fan who enjoys discovering new singers and bands? Find your new favorite act at 331 Club. They feature a line-up of indie, rock and folk acts nearly every night and there is never a cover charge. The club has a full bar and serves a light menu of sandwiches and pizzas. There is an occasional break for interactive games like trivia and "blingo."

2. Minneapolis Aquatennial

This annual civic celebration held each July is billed as "The Best Days of Summer." Flagship events of this city-wide celebration include the Beach Bash at Lake Calhoun, CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade and Target Fireworks. Local restaurants have stands selling traditional festival food like burgers, ice cream and corn on the cob.

3. Landmark Center
75 W. Fifth Street
St. Paul 55102

This architecturally stunning building once served as the Federal Court House and Post Office. Today it's maintained as a historic landmark and cultural center, making music, dance, theater and other arts accessible to the community. Many activities have free admission, including the "Sundays at Landmark" program and "Ballet Tuesdays," a lunchtime dance demonstration held the second Tuesday of each month.

4. Concrete and Grass
Mears Park
St. Paul 55101

Mark your calendar to celebrate the transition from summer to fall at this outdoor music festival taking place September 10-12 at one of the most beautiful spots in the Twin Cities. The event is sponsored by local musical organizations, including the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and Minnesota Opera, to mark the beginning of their performance seasons. Acts cover a wide range of styles from jazz to opera to rock.

5. Douglas State Trail
Rochester

Minnesota is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the United States. See it up close along this 12.5-mile trail developed along an abandoned railroad grade. The landscape includes a mix of forest and fields, and there is a good chance you'll spot pheasants and partridges along the way. Dual treadways have a paved surface for hiking, cycling, in-line skating and skiing and a natural surface for horseback riding and snowmobiling.

Have you discovered some great free activities around the Twin Cities? We'd love to hear about them!