2025 Black Friday Alternatives in Every State

Everyone’s abuzz about Black Friday. There’s the die-hard shoppers who plot out their door-busting techniques. However, with each Black Friday that goes by, I find myself wanting more and more to focus on experiences rather than buying up even more things. I don’t think I’m alone – a lot of you have also said you prefer experiences to goods. 

For this year, I thought I’d take it a step further – how about experiences that are either free or very inexpensive? Many parks and museums have waived entrance fees, so take advantage instead of waiting in line at a mall or fighting with your internet online.

I’ve rounded up at least one idea in each state, but leave your ideas in the comments below!

Here’s the best 2025 Black Friday shopping alternatives in every state:

Alabama

With milder temperatures that most states in November, there’s so much to do in Alabama! Starting up north in Huntsville, you’ve got a great mix of history and nature. Love space? The US Space & Rocket Center is AWESOME, and they’re currently offering a 50% discount to all furlough government employees. Huntsville Botanical Gardens will have their Galaxy of Lights display up, and Burritt on the Mountain is great if you want access to both history and nature.

Down in Birmingham, there’s a ton of free things to do, and you’ll be able to access most, like the Civil Rights District, on Black Friday.

Otherwise, check out these free places to visit in Alabama and what the state park closest to you might be planning. Quite a few of them are hosting hikes as part of #OptOutside while Wind creek.

Alaska

Want to get outside? Hike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (open year-round!). Rather stay inside? Try the Alaska Heritage or Anchorage Museum, which will have free admission and their own craft fair going on Black Friday. If you’re in Juneau, check out the programs and exhibits at Sealaska Heritage.

Arizona

November is one of the loveliest times to get outside in Arizona! Think sunshine without the oppressive heat of summer. For those looking for a hike, check out one of the state’s many parks and monuments. Just check here to see which is closest to you.

And if you want a more nocturnal adventure, Arizona is home to 200 International Dark Sky chapters!

Arkansas

So many free things to do in Little Rock. Visit the Old Mill (a re-creation of an 1880s water-powered grist mill!); the oldest state capital west of the Mississippi, and loads of pedestrian bridges. For a small town escape, Bentonville is one of the most charming spots, and Crystal Bridges Museum of Art one of the coolest art museums out there! Hot Springs is also one of the more underrated National Parks and is one of the only ones that’s part town, part park.

Arkansas state parks also have loads of free hikes, tours and more as a part of their #OptOutside initiatives!

California

With nearly lovely, dry weather through nearly the whole state in November and a sheer abundance of outdoor space, I hope you Californians know how luck you are!! I don’t really know how anyone has time to get around for shopping when so many of you live near some of the coolest outdoor places around.

I say this year, take a drive somewhere you haven’t been yet in California. I’ve learned from my many trips to the state of the years (with quite a few for “Places to Love” alone) that there’s really some sort of new adventure to be found whether you’re looking at bigger parks or tiny towns in the middle of nowhere. Just outside of LA, for example, is California Botanic Garden, which has free admission on Black Friday!

Colorado

Colorado is synonymous with nature-y outdoor adventure, so it makes sense they’re taking part in Opt Outside (or as they’re calling it Fresh Air Friday). All state parks will be free admission this year, and if you want some extra fun, Cherry Creek is hosting the annual Great Waddle Walk!

One of my favorite places, of course, is Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. It’s not a state park, but its owner stipulated that it always be free. Plus it’s great if you want to see stunning landscapes without a ton of hiking.

Connecticut

There are so many great things to do in Connecticut! New England in general is rife with historic sites, so check this page to see what’ll be open. For some specific events — Power Ridge Park will kick off the Power Ridge Winter Festival, Kellog Estate is hosting a Post Turkey-Day Tryptophan Trek, James L Gwoodin is hosting a Fairy House fun event, and you can catch the Holiday Lights Spectacular at Olde Mystick Village!

Delaware

Might I suggest bundling up and strolling along the beach at Cape Henlopen State Park?

Florida

If you’re in Florida, just go to the beach for cryin’ out loud! Two of my favorites: Anna Maria Island & Amelia Island. For those itching for something to do rather than hanging out the beach, I say plan a trip to the historic St. Augustine. Some of their more famous landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos have small fees for entrance, but there’s a ton to do that’s totally free – including some great beaches!

Georgia

Atlanta is one of the best cities for food, culture, and green space. The best? A lot of it is free! (Okay, not the food but the culture and green space!) Find some calm along in Chattahoochee National Recreation Area. Walk, run, and bike along the city’s fantastic Beltline. One of the most whimsy things to do? Look for all the adorable tiny doors dotted around the city. 

And, of course, for history it doesn’t get much better than the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site and The Carter Center.

For those of you that prefer a quieter visit in Georgia, look no further than Savannah. The whole town feels like one giant open air art museum with beautiful architecture, historic squares, and plenty famous landmarks to help guide your walking path. Not to mention it has a lot of great nature trails and even some beach towns like Tybee Island to enjoy.

Hawaiʻi

Not the first time I’ve mentioned this thus far… but if you’re in Hawaiʻi, go to the beach. I loved watching the surfers on Oahu’s north shore. As far as hiking, there are plethora of beautiful coastal hikes. For something unique, check out pillbox hikes closest to you. They once were WWII bunkers!

And if you’re in Honolulu, book tickets for Iolani Palace to learn more about the Hawai’i’s royal history.

Idaho

Of all the states on this list, it really does feel like Idaho flies pretty under the radar in terms of natural beauty. I say get out into nature and ask around for the closest hot spring to really decompress after the holiday.

Illinois

The weather in Chicago might not be the most inviting in November, but the city more than makes up for it! By the time Black Friday roles around, much of the Windy City’s Christmas decor is up and free to enjoy. Take in the new Art on theMart, enjoy Garfield Park Conservatory, and check out the Chicago Architecture Biennial at the Chicago Cultural Center. 

Another option? Follow Route 66 through Illinois and be prepared to stop off at all sorts of cool places like a town full of arcade games or the historic Cahokia Mounds.

Indiana

A number of state parks are participating in the #OptOutside challenge! Check here for group hikes and programs on Black Friday.

For those that want to stay in Indianapolis, there are a ton of free things to do. My personal favorites? Following the Bookmark Indy trail and walking around ARTSPARK – a whimsical, interactive sculpture garden spread over 9.5 acres.  

Iowa

In east-central Iowa, you’ll find the seven Amana colonies—settled in 1855 by German immigrants and largely unchanged since. Check out the inns, restaurants and shops from a largely bygone era. Only $10 for 18 and over and $5 for under!

Kansas

Che k out all the free and low-cost things to do in Wichita whether it’s visiting one of its many museums, catching the sunset at Keeper of the Plains, or following Wichita’s History Walk. Not to mention – right on Wichita State’s campus you can check out a Frank Lloyd Wright building AND the Original Pizza Hut Museum.  

Kentucky

There are two kinds of trails in Kentucky: the hiking kind  & the bourbon kind. If you’re feeling a little full after eating turkey and all the fixins, try the former. Family driving you nuts? I might suggest the latter!

I personally recommend Bernheim Arboretum near Louisville. It’s one of the most underrated places to go outdoors and has the coolest sculptures throughout, including those giants you see above! There’s just a $15 recommended donation for parking.

Louisiana

There are lots of ways to get into the Louisiana wilderness. How about a walk along the Creole Nature Trail? Or head over to Northshore, rent a bike from Brooks’ Bike Shop, and cycle all along the Tammany Trace Trail. For something more urban , here’s 50 free things to do in NOLA!

Maine

I have a major soft spot for Maine. I hope to one day own an adorable home there one day, but until then I’ll settle for vacations filled with hikes, skiing and lobster rolls. If you’re heading all the way northeast for Turkey Day, know that even for nonresidents all state parks are under $10 to enter! It’ll be a little biting weather wise but not too bad.

Maryland

Dive into Civil War history. The Maryland Park Service hosts several significant Civil War sites, such as South Mountain and Point Lookout, and the forthcoming Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park. Get outside, explore and learn about some of Maryland’s role in the Civil War.

Massachusetts

Easy — the 2-mile Freedom Trail in Boston. Also keep an eye on Massachusetts State Parks to see if any will waive their entrance fees this year.

Michigan

Michigan is pretty cold this time of year, but if you can brave the outdoors, there are over a hundred state parks. Just know that if you have a car, there’s a Daily Recreation Passport you’ll be required to have or an annual version for Michigan residents. The Sierra Club is also hosting hikes at Kensington Metropark, Maybury, and Holly.

For some culture, the Detroit Institute of Arts will have quite a few events going on Black Friday and Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids will have their Christmas and Holiday traditions exhibit up.

Minnesota

Enjoy the Land of 10,000 Lake’s beautiful state parks for FREE on Black Friday. Details here.

Mississippi

Download the free Blues Trail app, get in the car, and start your pilgrimage to some of the most historically significant stops in blues history—like B.B. King’s birthplace and Muddy Waters’s Cabin.

Missouri

All Missouri state parks are free to enter year round, so if you need help choosing just one, I’d recommend Lake of the Ozarks. Another hidden gem? The Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage. A must-see is the chapel with all the artist’s 26-ft floor to ceiling mural!

Montana

Montana has some seriously cool free things to do. My top pick? Ghost Towns! In the winter weather they’ll feel even more abandoned and ghostly. 

Nebraska

When it comes to Nebraska, we’re talking about a state that was on the trail of many, many pioneers – Lewis & Clarke, the Mormons, and The Pony Express! Check out any of those national parks for a little historic adventure.

Nevada

When people think Nevada, their mind automatically thinks Las Vegas—casinos, late night parties and shows. You forget this neon-lit oasis is the middle of the desert, close to tons of great hiking, biking and horseback riding. Here’s a few ways to get outdoors near Sin City.

New Hampshire

My hometown of Portsmouth is rich with history! Take a self-guided walking tour and see for yourself. Here’s a list of the places to stop. They’re even hosting a History of Thanskgiving tour at Strawberry Banke.

New Jersey

The Garden State might be known for its shore and housewives, but there’s lots more to do here. How about getting a little fresh air on one of these 10 hikes?

New Mexico

I love New Mexico. In fact, it’s one of my favorite destinations for personal travel. Here’s what I did last time I was there. On Black Friday, get outside at the Dale Ball Trails or Aspen Vista Trail, and  at night, don’t miss the Annual Holiday Plaza Lighting. 

If you have kids, you may want to plan a visit to Taos for their Yuletide celebrations. Black Friday especially should be fun with their Twirl Aglow Party!

New York

So many great things to do in NYC. Christmas decor will be in full swing, so pop all around Manhattan to see the displays. For those that want to venture out to Brooklyn – Dyker Height’s famous Christmas lights start on Black Friday.

For those non-NYC New Yorkers that wouldn’t dream of trying to go into the city during Black Friday, just about every state park seems to be offering some sort of hike or event! I especially love that over in Shirley Chisholm, they’re organizing a regift swap! If you’re in the Finger Lakes, don’t miss Letchworth State Park in Genesee River Valley. It’s parking fees are also waived from end of October to beginning of spring. Even Niagara Falls and Walkway Over the Hudson should be free.

North Carolina

I’d like to say The Hunger Games made DuPont State Recreation Forest famous (part of the first movie was shot there), but the fact is, this place was well-loved before that. Though most busy in the early summer, outdoors enthusiasts flock here year-round to hike and visit its four major waterfalls.

If you’re looking for a guided hike, check out Hanging Rock State Park.

North Dakota

The Plains Art Museum always has free admission and hosts a number of great exhibits. Check here for their current collections. And while it’s not free, you don’t want to miss the Theodore Roosevelt National Park!

Ohio

Your fridge may be stuffed full of leftovers, but that doesn’t mean wandering Cleveland’s West Side Market wouldn’t be a fun way to spend a few hours.  Not to mention there are a number of fantastic Cleveland museums you wouldn’t believe are totally free year round. MOCA and the Cleveland Museum of Art are must-sees. For the outdoors, Cuyahoga National Park is free all year round as are all 76 of Ohio’s state parks. 

Oklahoma

There’s a ton of free things to do in Oklahoma all year round. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is breathtaking in winter and Dog Run Hollow is a fairly flat hike that’ll give you incredible views. You also don’t want to skip out on driving along historic Route 66 – Oklahoma is home to the largest stretch of that famous road.

Oregon

Portland loves getting outside almost as much as they love pour-over coffees. Check out any one of incredible hikes right by the city. And while the International Rose Garden won’t have many (or any) roses in bloom by Black Friday, it’s still well worth the visit to get outside and enjoy the area! While you’re in the city check out Powell’s Books (especially the rare book room) and the world’s smallest park for free. Of course, right outside of the city is the magnificent Multnomah Falls, which will only cost you $2. 

If you want to get further out, don’t forget the Pacific Coast Highway isn’t just in California – it’s in Oregon too and just as scenic.

Pennsylvania

The best thing about Philadelphia is that so much of its best landmarks are completely free to see. City Hall? Right there in Center City! Historic sites like Elfreth’s Alley, the Liberty Bell, Statue of Tamanend, and Independence Hall? FREE. Running up the steps and jumping around like Rocky? Open and free for anyone. They even have footsteps on the ground now so you know exactly where to stand. 

The absolute best thing about Philly, though? The abundance of murals that cover nearly ever free inch of the city. If you visit without seeing at least one mural, are you sure you’re in the right city? You can book a tour for a more guided experience but really you’ll see some of the coolest creations without even trying. And while there’s a fee for Magic Gardens, if you go to the area right around it, you’ll see a smattering of the artist’s mosaics just on the sides of random buildings. 

Pennsylvania is another state where all their state parks are free for day use!

Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, get your kids outside with the #RIWalksChallenge. Explore over 30 trails in the state to see how many of the 34 nature-inspired creatures you can find. They even have this printable so you can mark them off as you go!

South Carolina

Charleston has quite a few free things to do that’ll get you out and enjoying the one of the most charming Southern cities. Stroll along the Gateway Walk and visit America’s only tea garden at Charleston Tea Garden. You can even do a free factory tour to learn more. You can also enjoy Charleston City Market, though with all there is to see, I can’t promise this will be a totally spend-less experience.

Of course, if you want to get outside, Congaree National Park is always free. Plus, many of South Carolina’s state parks and historic sites are joining Opt Outside, so check their events calendar to pick where to go.

South Dakota

Every November, Sioux Falls’ Fall Park turns into a literal winter wonderland. Climb the tower for a lovely view of the park and surrounds. At night, the place sparkles like crazy thanks to over 355,000 twinkling LED lights. 

Tennessee

Tennessee State Parks are offering all sorts of guided hikes on Black Friday. Their website even has a whole “Day After Thanksgiving Hikes” section to encourage everyone to get outside.

If you’re in Chattanooga, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum will have quite a few fun events including their North Pole Limited train ride!

Texas

Ah, Texas. It’s like a whole different country. Trust me, there’s plenty to do here aside from shopping. San Antonio is always a fun place to visit and the RiverWalk is truly stunning. Plus the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is always free. Dallas also always has a ton of cool, free events. And if you want to get on the road, drive along The Twisted Sisters drive in Hill Country is incredible scenic.

Utah

The Bonneville Salt Flats look like they belong on another planet and are well worth the Black Friday excursion. Utah is also one of the states that’s helping fund its national parks, known as The Mighty 5, during the shutdown.

Vermont

I love to get outside in Vermont, and the idyllic town of Stowe is a favorite destination. Check out the Stowe Recreation Path.

Virginia

All state parks will waive parking fees for Virginia license plates on Black Friday! Just about every park as well will be hosting some sort of Opt Outside event, just check their calendar.

Washington

The Fyre Art Museum is always free in Seattle and while you the state parks are no longer offering free entrance on Black Friday, they do have quite a few different pass options to make it more affordable.

West Virginia

West Virginia is home to 36 state parks, and many of them are free year round. Plus New River Gorge, the US’s newest national park, is ALWAYS free. If you plan on visiting Fayetville, join in on the last few days of Gnomevember!

Wisconsin

There’s a ton of free things to do in Madison and nearby. The best free thing to do though? The delightfully quirky Mustard Museum, of course!

Wisconsin also has a few state parks joining Opt Outside, including Lakeshore, Havenwoods, and MacKenzie Center.

Wyoming

While most Wyoming state parks and national parks have a fee to visit on Black Friday, the prices are surprisingly low for their popularity (just keep weather conditions in mind). Plus you can find more free things to do through the whole state right here.

What are your Black Friday plans? Shopping, getting outside, visiting a cool museum… or sitting on the couch recovering from turkey day? No judgement– all sound great to me!

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