10 Free Things to Do in Denver for Fall 2009

In today's economy, with travel costs rising, wouldn't it be nice to get some freebies once you reach your destination? I offer you the following list of totally free attractions in the Mile High City, and nearby areas, that will help you get the most bang from your non-existent buck. Note the dates and plan accordingly and you can have the same trip that the not-so-savvy paid a premium for.

1. Denver Zoo (2300 Steele Street, Denver, 303-376-4800) www.denverzoo.org

Mammal and birds and fish, oh my! This one is always a favorite before the snow hits the ground and the animals go into hibernation. Sunny Fall days are so perfect in Denver, too. Free days: Wednesday, October 7, 2009 - Sunday, October 25, 2009 - Sunday, November 8, 2009 - Wednesday, November 11, 2009

2. U.S. Mint (320 West Colfax Avenue, Denver, 303-405-4761) www.usmint.gov

Money makes the world go round. See how it's made! Free Guided Tours Monday through Friday 8am-2pm with reservations.

3. Denver Art Museum (100 West 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, 720-865-5000) www.denverartmuseum.org

Also know as "The DAM", which makes kids laugh. Tons of family friendly exhibits or go kid-free. Free days: Saturday, August 1, 2009 - Saturday, September 5, 2009 - Saturday, October 3, 2009 - Saturday, November 7, 2009

4. 16th Street Pedestrian Mall and Free Trolley www.downtowndenver.com

Almost a mile of shops, clubs and restaurants located in downtown Denver on 16th St. Open practically 24 hours. Grab some souvenirs, try a locally-made beer and see some interesting street performers.

5. Denver Museum of Nature & Science (2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver, 303-322-7009) www.dmns.org

See Egyptian Mummies, Wildlife Exhibits or take a Prehistoric Journey. Kids will love the Discovery Zone. Free days: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 - Sunday, September 13, 2009 - Sunday, October 4, 2009 - Monday, November 2, 2009 - Sunday, November 22, 2009

6. Coors Brewery Tour (17735 W 32nd Ave, Golden, 303-277-6061) www.coors.com

Unique self-guided tour of the brewery. Main reason to go: free beer samples (must be 21 for those).

7. Denver Botanic Gardens (1005 York St., Denver, 720-865-3500) www.botanicgardens.org

Jurassic Gardens exhibit, Summer Concerts, Walking Trails. So much to do. So little time. Free days: Thursday, August 20, 2009 - Saturday, September 19, 2009 - Friday, October 23, 2009

8. Brown Palace Hotel (321 17th St, Denver, 303- 297-3111) www.brownpalace.com

Open for business for over 100 years, made of onyx and built over an artesian well. Lots more fun facts presented on the free tour! Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2pm with reservation.

9. Capital Building (200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, 303-866-2604) www.sos.state.co.us

Famous for it's gold dome, get some Colorado history and see some preserved tapestries and stained glass windows. Free Guided Tours Monday through Friday 9am-2pm with reservations.

10. Fall Foliage Tours www.colorado.com, www.chiff.com

In late September, choose from several different scenic drives around the outskirts of Denver into the Rocky Mountains themselves.