First up, the Museum of the Human Web is running a free pop-up exhibit from May 8 through May 16. If you haven't heard of it, you're not alone — it's one of those under-the-radar cultural moments that makes SF worth living in despite, well, everything. The exhibit explores the interconnected history of human civilization, and the price point is exactly right: zero dollars.

Then there's the perennial gem that too many locals sleep on — the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park offers a free admission hour. This is one of the oldest public Japanese gardens in the country, and it's sitting right there in your backyard. The free window is typically early morning, which means fewer tourists clogging the paths and more actual tranquility. Check current hours before you go, but it's worth setting an alarm for.

Here's the thing: San Francisco collects an enormous amount of tax revenue. Between property taxes, business taxes, sales taxes, and a dozen fee structures that would make an accountant weep, this city is not hurting for cash. So when public institutions and cultural organizations offer free access, it's worth remembering — this is partly what your money is supposed to be funding. More of this, please. Fewer $1.7 million public toilets.

The best cities justify their cost of living by offering things money can't buy — or at least things that don't require it. These two attractions are a reminder that SF still has that magic, if you know where to look.

Get out there. Leave your wallet at home. Enjoy your city for once.