St. Louis is a great city when you're looking for something to do without spending money. Many top attractions like the St. Louis Zoo and the Science Center are free, and there are special free events and activities throughout the year. Here are the best free fall events in the St. Louis area.
Twilight Tuesday Concerts
The Missouri History Museum hosts free fall concerts on the museum's north lawn on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Local musicians perform all kinds of music from jazz to blues to rock-n-roll. Featured performers this year include Cheryl Brown, Dirty Muggs and The Fabulous Motown Revue.
August 21 - October 9, 2012
Ghosts of the Arch Grounds
The National Park Service is hosting free events at the Gateway Arch this fall. One Friday night a month, take a ranger-led twilight walk followed by free telescope viewing from the St. Louis Astronomical Society.
August 30, September 27 & October 25, 2012
First Friday at the St. Louis Science Center
Admission to the St. Louis Science Center is free for everyone (except for special exhibits). On the first Friday night of each month there is also a free Star Party at the Planetarium. Members of the St. Louis Astronomical Society set up telescopes for public viewing and are available to answer questions.
September 7, October 5 & November 2, 2012
Citywalk Concert Series
Free concerts on the second Friday of the month at the outdoor plaza at Ferguson Citywalk. Performers include Jeanne Trevor and Neon Blues Band. Concerts are from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
September 14 & October 12, 2012
Great Forest Park Balloon Race
One of the top free events of the fall is the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. Visitors can get a close look at the balloons during the Balloon Glow, then come back for the race the next day.
September 14 & 15, 2012
Sounds at the Station
Spend a fall evening listening to free live music at St. Louis Union Station. The final concert of the Sounds of the Station series features music from Guitars on Fire. The concert is held outside at the Lake Stage from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
September 20, 2012
Free Family Nights at the Magic House
The Magic House is the top childrens museum in St. Louis and your family can enjoy it for free. The museum offers free admission on the third Friday of the month from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
September 21, October 19 & November 16, 2012
Family Sundays at the Art Museum
The St. Louis Art Museum is another free treasure in Forest Park, and Sunday is a good day for families to visit. Each week, the museum hosts "Family Sundays" from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event includes kid-friendly art projects and a tour of the exhibits at 2:30 p.m.
September, October & November, 2012
Art After 5
The St. Louis Art Museum also hosts a popular free event for grown-ups. On the fourth Friday of the month, visitors can enjoy the Art After 5 event featuring a variety of musicians and artists. Tickets are required. You can pick up free tickets, near the museum's main entrance, starting the first of every month.
September 28, October 26 & November 23, 2012
Third Degree Third Friday
Third Degree Glass Factory hosts a free open house on the third Friday of each month. There are glassblowing demonstrations, art exhibits, live music and more. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
September 21, October 19 & November 16, 2012

