Several of San Francisco's cultural institutions open their doors for free — or close to it — on the first Tuesday of every month.

The Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park, one of the city's most beautiful (and most Instagrammed) landmarks, waives its admission fee entirely on First Tuesdays. Meanwhile, the Cartoon Art Museum over in SoMa runs a "Pay What You Wish" day, meaning you can get in for whatever you've got rattling around in your pocket after paying $7 for a cortado.

These programs are institutions doing smart community outreach — building goodwill, getting foot traffic, and letting people enjoy what this city has to offer without a $25 cover charge.

If you're new to SF, working remotely on a flexible schedule, or just looking for something to do that doesn't involve spending half your paycheck, mark the first Tuesday of each month on your calendar. The Conservatory's orchid collection alone is worth rearranging your afternoon.