When you visit one of these 10 free attractions — nominated by a panel of travel experts and voted by readers as the best in the U.S. — you can save big travel budget bucks for other things. Even though they come at no cost, in each case, you get way, way more than you pay for.

No. 10: Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Las Vegas, Nevada

If you need a break from the intense Las Vegas weather, immerse yourself in the Bellagio's impressive indoor garden of delights. Featuring flowers, fountains, and sculptures made of plants, it's a gorgeous sight to behold, and a delightful place to decompress after some time in the casino or at a show. Enjoy return visits, too, as the displays change with the seasons.

No. 9: Cape May County Park & Zoo
Cape May Court House, New Jersey

At Cape May County Park and Zoo, you can check out your favorite animals including giraffes, zebras, leopards, and lemurs. Check out the zoo's calendar for a full schedule of year-round events to enhance your visit. Both admission and parking are free.

No. 8: National Mall and Memorial Parks
Washington, D.C.

At the National Mall and Memorial Parks, visitors can observe iconic memorials dedicated to those who helped shape this nation. Highlights include the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument.

No. 7: Niagara Falls State Park
Niagara Falls, New York

The oldest state park in the U.S. and one of the most well-known natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls is a sight to behold. Start by learning about the park's history in the visitor's center, then go for a hike for some great views of Devil’s Hole Rapids and the Whirlpool Rapids, or simply observe the falls in all their glory.

No. 6: Freedom Trail
Boston, Massachusetts

Starting at the Boston Common and ending at the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown, the Freedom Trail offers historical insight into the city of Boston. It's easy to hop on and off of the Freedom Trail as it weaves throughout the city, highlighting some of Boston's most special places including Park Street Church, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution.

No. 5: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
North Carolina and Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. There are many free things to do within this massive, preserved space that spans the North Carolina-Tennessee border. Cades Cove is one of its most popular places to visit, thanks to its abundant wildlife and historical buildings. Biking and hiking trails lead to scenic marvels across the Smokies, and picnic pavilions and campsites can be found throughout much of the park.

No. 4: Hershey's Chocolate Tour
Hershey, Pennsylvania

If you've ever had childhood dreams of touring a chocolate factory, you'll love the free tour of Hershey's Chocolate World. Climb aboard with your whole family and enjoy the 30-minute ride that will whisk you into the world of Hershey's chocolate-making. The best part — the tour culminates in some free and very tasty chocolate samples.

No. 3: Independence National Historical Park
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Enjoy a visit to Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, where you can learn about the history of the American Revolution and the nation's founding. The park includes iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, as well as the Liberty Bell.

No. 2: TECO Manatee Viewing Center
Apollo Beach, Florida

Situated in Apollo Beach, Florida, the TECO Manatee Viewing Center is a protected marine sanctuary that offers visitors the rare opportunity to see manatees up close. You can also enjoy beautiful butterfly gardens, an impressive observation tower, a boardwalk, and walking trails. The park is open seasonally, from November to April.

No. 1: Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Juno Beach, Florida

The Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Florida's Juno Beach is dedicated to ocean and sea turtle conservation, and it’s free and open to the public. The number of resident sea turtles varies, since the center's goal is to rescue and return wildlife to their natural habitats. There are plenty of other sea creatures to observe as well, and helpful volunteers are on hand to answer questions and provide information.