Free family fun
Toolbox
Published: May 20, 2009
I read with interest the article on the work of the Vermont Dept. of Tourism to attract visitors to our state (May 18, 2009).
I am writing to offer an idea for the times: Why not create a special area at the department's Web site that provides ideas for family outings that are rewarding, fun, and free of charge? This year, many families are not just looking for a good buy for the dollar; they're looking for a great deal for no dollars. Families residing in Vermont and those traveling to our state are returning to the basics of family fun. This means that we need to share some of Vermont's best-kept secrets!
Here are a few of my favorite free activities in my hometown, Barre:
1. Visit Studio Place Arts, the community's non-profit visual arts center, to see art exhibits on all three floors of the center and interact with working artists in their studios.
2. Stroll down to "The Whispering Wall" at City Hall Park and show your children the secret of how sound travels along the semi-circular granite wall behind the bench.
3. Take a break and read a storybook in the magical children's room downstairs in the Aldrich Public Library.
4. Go garden and bird watching in one of the lovely Victorian era neighborhoods nearby.
5. Hike through the Hope Cemetery (truly an outdoors sculpture garden) to view world-class stone sculptures, including a stone car and soccer ball.
6. Enjoy the farmers market and free musical performances and book readings on Wednesday evenings throughout the warm weather months.
7. Zip around Playground 2000, visit a castle, and experience nearly every outdoor recreational toy imaginable.
Every town or city in Vermont has an array of family activities that require no ticket or admission fees. Let's organize lists of these "Fabulous & Free" outings by city and town and empower people to enjoy these wonderful aspects of Vermont.
Sue Higby
Executive Director
Studio Place Arts
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