The best things in life might be free, but most things in life are very expensive. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to have fun in Montana without opening your wallet. These are a few of our favorites.

1. Do the Bray

Located just outside of Helena, the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts is always good for a free self-guided tour.

2. Find an art walk

A lot of our larger communities, like Bozeman and Missoula, host art walks that are 100% free to the public. Some of the galleries will even offer a free beer or wine while you browse.

3. Visit the Western Heritage Museum in Billings

Normally admission to this museum, which is full of fascinating facts about Montana's history, costs $5 for adults. But if you become a member or you find them on one of their free admission days (check their website or call), it won't cost you a dime.

4. Walk through Virginia City and Nevada City

It won't cost you a thing to walk through two of Montana's coolest and most well-preserved ghost towns. Thanks to the abundance of free information, you can even go on a self-guided tour.

5. Relive your childhood and break out the sled.

'Tis the season for Montana to be blanketed by snow. Skiing and snowboarding can be expensive, but sledding is 100% free as long as you own a sled.

6. Visit the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site at 266 Warren Lane in Deer Lodge

Not only is admission to this fascinating historic site free, but there are often events that won't cost you a thing. The Holiday Open House is December 4 and will have music, children's activities, wagon rides and refreshments.

7. Relax in the Garden of 1,000 Buddhas in Arlee

An Indian reservation in Montana may be the last place you'd expect to find a garden of buddha statues, but that makes this place even more interesting.

8. Head to the park

City parks are free, and in Montana, they're especially beautiful. This is Pioneer Park in Billings, a local gem.

9. Explore the Virgelle Mercantile and ride the free river ferry

It might be hard to resist buying anything at the Virgelle Mercantile, but browsing is always free. When you're finished, hop on the free Virgelle Ferry and take a ride down the Missouri River.

10. Go dancing.

Fun free community dances (with donations accepted) are held all over Montana, especially in Bozeman, Missoula and Helena. The website contradancelinks.com usually has the latest schedule.

11. Tour the Big Sky Brewing Company in Missoula

Stand on the mezzanine area that offers a few into the brewhouse, then head to the taproom for up to four free samples of tasty local beer.

12. Try some Flathead Lake Cheese

Polson's Flathead Lake Cheese creamery encourages visitors, allowing them a glimpse into the cheese-making process and offering free tastes.

Having fun in Montana doesn't have to be expensive. Not only can you entertain yourself for free, but you can get a cheap meal, too. Here are some restaurants with entrees under $10.