Finding free parking can feel like a modern-day treasure hunt, especially in crowded cities, busy event areas, or college towns. But with a few smart tricks and the right apps, you can score free or cheap parking more often than you think. Here’s how to do it.
Contents
- 1. Use Free Parking Apps
- 2. Check Local Business Deals
- 3. Know When Meters Are Free
- 4. Park Near Schools, Churches, or Residential Streets
- 5. Use Public Transit Park-and-Ride Lots
- 6. Search for Free Parking Codes or Discounts
- 7. Use Employer or Apartment Parking
- 8. Arrive Early or Late
- 9. Avoid Event Day Price Surges
- 10. Use Credit Cards or Rewards That Offer Parking Perks
- 11. Manifest a Free Parking Spot
- Final Thoughts
1. Use Free Parking Apps
Apps like Parkopedia, SpotAngels, and BestParking are game changers. They use real-time data to show you available free or cheap parking in your area.
- SpotAngels alerts you when free parking starts or ends.
- Parkopedia works like a “Wikipedia of parking,” listing local restrictions and costs.
Tip: Use filters in the app to show only “Free” or “No meter” parking options.
2. Check Local Business Deals
Some restaurants, gyms, or shops offer validated parking if you make a purchase. Even a small coffee order could save you a $20 garage fee.
- Ask before you park.
- Movie theaters and shopping malls often offer two to three hours free.
3. Know When Meters Are Free
Most cities have certain times when metered parking is free, such as evenings, Sundays, and holidays.
- Look for small print on meter signs.
- City websites often list meter-free hours.
- Many meters display “free after” times.
Example: In Chicago, meters are free on Sundays. In Los Angeles, they are free after 8 PM in most areas.
4. Park Near Schools, Churches, or Residential Streets
After hours or on weekends, parking lots for schools, churches, and community centers are often empty and open to the public. Always double-check posted signs first because some lots tow outside of events.
Residential neighborhoods near business districts may allow two-hour free parking or have unrestricted areas just a few blocks from paid zones.
5. Use Public Transit Park-and-Ride Lots
If you are visiting a downtown area, park for free at a park-and-ride lot on the city outskirts and take public transportation in.
- Saves gas, time, and parking fees.
- Many commuter lots are free or charge less than $2 for all-day use.
6. Search for Free Parking Codes or Discounts
Before paying for a parking garage online, check for promo codes on sites such as:
- RetailMeNot
- CouponCabin
- Groupon, which sometimes offers discounted parking passes
7. Use Employer or Apartment Parking
If you work in an office building or live in an apartment complex, ask if there are shared or overflow parking spaces available for free after hours. Some employers even have parking reimbursement programs.
8. Arrive Early or Late
Free parking spots go fast. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening gives you a better chance to grab unmetered curb spaces before the crowd does.
9. Avoid Event Day Price Surges
Sporting events, concerts, and festivals often cause parking rates to skyrocket. Instead, park several blocks away in residential zones, walk or take a shuttle to the venue, and use an app to find areas not affected by surge pricing.
10. Use Credit Cards or Rewards That Offer Parking Perks
Some credit cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Platinum provide parking credits or cashback when you use partnered garages.
11. Manifest a Free Parking Spot
It might sound surprising, but a little positive thinking can go a long way. Many people swear by the idea of manifesting a parking space before they even arrive. Visualize yourself finding the perfect spot and believe it is waiting for you. This mindset not only keeps you calm while searching but can also make you more observant and patient, both qualities that help you spot hidden or soon-to-open spaces others miss.
Final Thoughts
Free parking spots might seem hard to find, but they are everywhere if you know where to look. By combining apps, local know-how, and timing, you can park for free more often and keep more money in your wallet for what really matters.
