If you are a budget conscious family, who lives in the Midwest and can’t spend a bundle to fly to a coastal community this summer, you don’t have to miss out on seasonal fun. In fact, you don’t have to spend a single dime to have a blast at any of the following free attractions:
WISCONSIN
A few months ago my little town in rural Wisconsin was buzzing with excitement thanks to a visit by Hollywood hunk Johnny Depp. The award-winning actor was in the Dairy State with his pal Christian Bale to film the movie “Public Enemies.” The flick is based on the exploits of 1930s mobster John Dillinger and his cronies, which is why the movie’s producer chose Wisconsin to do much of the shooting. Fast forward to May, when the state Department of Tourism released a free, self-drive Wisconsin Gangster Tour guide, which highlights more than a dozen venues used in the filming or frequented by Chicago mobsters looking to get out of town. Some of the tours most popular stops include: The Little Bohemia Lodge near Mercer, where Dillinger actually stayed to hide from the enemy. Legend has it that he left a cache of money behind that never has been found. You can also view bullet holes and Dillinger’s traveling bag at the resort.
MICHIGAN
If you are pinching pennies in Michigan, then you might consider visiting the retired U.S LST 393, docked in Muskegon. This summer the World War II-era tank carrier is being transformed into an outdoor movie theater. Most Friday nights at dusk from June 12-September 18, the historic vessel will host family films on the deck under the stars. Selections include the naval themed “Up Periscope” and “Operation Petticoat.”
MINNESOTA
If you want to give your children an educational vacation this summer without having to foot the bill for expensive books, then head to tiny Akeley, Minnesota, which is located about 3.5 hours north of Minneapolis. The town claims to be the birthplace of Paul Bunyan. While there you can pose in a large wooden cradle or sit in the palm of a 25-foot Paul Bunyan statue. If that’s not enough to quench your thirst for all things Bunyan-related then visit other Minnesota venues with connections to the famous lumberjack, including Brainerd, Kelliher and Bemidji.
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