Everyone knows that we are in a recession, which is a bummer. We all have to save our pennies these days but that doesn't necessarily have to stop us from going out and having fun. That is why I have compiled this list of fun, free things to do in the Philadelphia area. I mean we're in a recession, we're not dead. Going out without spending wads of cash is an option. The best part is I have done the legwork for you.

On Sundays, you can tour the Philadelphia Art Museum for free or donate as much as you wish. The layout of the museum has changed. There is a lot more to see than in past years. The Museum houses over 225,000 works of art that are displayed in rotation so you may not be able to see it all in one visit. Some of the permanent collections include European art, Asian art, American art, Modern Art, Dutch Ceramics and my personal favorite, Arms & Armour. Admission on Sundays also includes free admission to the Perlmann Building galleries so that adds more to the days itinerary. Any exhibitions requiring an additional fee is not included in free Sunday admission. Sunday hours are 10a-5p.

A fascinating peek into one of the oldest fraternal organizations in history. Considering that many of our founding fathers including such notables as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin were Freemasons, we could not boast our visit to historical Philadelphia was complete without touring the Masonic Temple. The architecture is outstanding and worth the trip alone. In addition, there is an extensive library with over 75,000 volumes for the study of freemasonry. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9a-5p, Mondays by appointment only. Saturdays 9a-12p. Call ahead if you want a guided tour to get the available times.

Go see where it all began, the formation of the Declaration of Independence and the drafting of the Constitution. I had lived in the area for nearly a decade before I visited Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Don't wait that long before you go. Visiting these historical sites inspired me to become interested in history again. It is quite fascinating if you give it a chance. Just knowing that you are standing in the same room as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, just to name a few, is quite awesome.

 There a several bars and clubs in the Olde City district of Philadelphia that offer dancing usually with no cover charge. I urge you to check them out. Go have a drink and a few dances. I consider that a fun, inexpensive night on the town. Two of my favorites are Cubre Libre and Brasils. They both offer salsa dancing. Cubre Libre is also a restaurant that offers Cuban food. The tropical decor is quite charming. Brasils offers free salsa lessons on Wednesdays between 9p-10p. So don't be shy if you don't know how to salsa.

You can take the Patco High Speed Line and visit towns such as Collingswood and Haddonfield. These are quaint towns that have unique shops and boutiques. They also have some of the best restaurants in the area. You can just go window shopping or attend one of the free events during the year that include the Collingswood Book Festival, May Fair, Cruise Night, and the Music Festival. For more details, check their local websites.

This a great place for children and the inner child in us. The exhibitions are educational as well as fun. Take a walk through the giant heart, become an engineer for the day, or take the sports challenge. Admission is free to the Franklin Institute every third Wednesday of the month but call ahead to verify. You can visit all the exhibits including the IMAX. I just recently learned of this and believe me, my family will be visiting very soon.

Visit the place where William Penn arrived on his ship Welcome, Penn's Landing. Take a stroll and stop to view the Gazela of Philadelphia. This ship was built in 1883 and was sailed until 1969 for cod fishing. Today it is used as a small maritime museum when it is not being sailed by volunteers. You can also stop by the Independence Seaport Museum. On Sundays between 10a-12p, pay what you wish. Exhibits include Divers of the Deep which is a look at undersea technology, and On the Rivers, On the Shores which displays small craft of the Delaware River Valley.

XPN is the local alternative radio station for Philadelphia. They offer an ecletic mix of alternative rock, folk, blues, country and more. Two of my favorite shows are World Cafe and Echoes. Check out the free at noon concerts. You get to see live music with great artists. Previous concerts featured artists Carrie Rodriguez and John Legend. Check the XPN website for other free events.

One of my favorite places in the world to visit is the Planetarium, any planetarium. The mysteries of the universe are revealed to you in such an amazing way. I always feel like I am experiencing space first hand. It can be a very humbling experience. This school offers many free activities throughout the year. I encourage you to check their website and take advantage of the opportunity.

Local parks are just a great, inexpensive way to get in touch with nature and get some exercise. They are also places that many free activities take place from concerts to flea markets. I will leave this for you to do the research as events change every year. Check the internet or your local paper for free, local events.