Free in the Twin Cities

910 Montreal Cir, St. Paul, MN 55102 (map)

Local brews are all the rage, and it doesn’t get much more local than Summit, which has made St. Paul its home for more than two decades. The local institution offers free tours and samples on Tuesdays, Thursdays and some Saturdays. You can sip on a bubbly Northern Porter and Pale Ale, learning all about what makes them taste so good.

1 Groveland Ter, Minneapolis, MN 55403 (map)

The first Thursday of every month, this world-famous art museum opens its doors/robot mouth for free. Enjoy the permanent collection of Rothkos and Yoko Onos and more, check out traveling exhibits that explore architecture and landscapes and everything in between, and enjoy a free film or stage event--all in one night.

333 East River Road, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (map)

Open Tuesday through Saturday, the exhibits at this gorgeous and world-famous Frank Gehry-designed art museum are always free. The permanent collection is extensive, and includes works by Georgia O’Keefe, among others. And the exhibits, like a recent one exploring artwork of the WPA, always offer a fresh perspective on current events.

300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55401 (map)

Pick up a free pass at this or any county library and you and a pal can get an all-day free pass to all of the local museums, including the Walker Art Center, Como Park Zoo, Museum of Russian Art, Bell Museum of Natural History and more.

75 Constitution Ave, St Paul, MN 55155 (map)

The gorgeous State Capitol in St. Paul offers free, guided tours year-round. Stop in before 4pm any day of the week and get a tour of the majestic building complete with fascinating details from an expert.