With many people experiencing tough times and pinching pennies, besides the pocket book issue what could be better for the spirit and the soul than visiting a Museum for Free.
If you live in the US, you can do just that on Museum Day, September 26.
The Museum Day 2009 site is hosted by Smithsonian Magazine and allows you to check the list of 1000 plus museums taking part in the event.
To narrow your choices, enter your city and state and a Google Map pops up with your nearest options.
In New Jersey, closest for me would be the Montclair Art Museum whose current main exhibit is Cezanne and American Modernism but I also discovered the American Labor Museum in Haledon.
15 minutes away, I could visit the Newark Museum whose newest offering 100 Masterpieces of Art Pottery (1880-1930) opened on September 23.
It features many works including vase above by Hugh Robertson (1845-1908) for the Dedham Pottery (picture from Newark Museum).
Many people might not realize but the Newark Museum has a treasure trove of African and Asian Art.
Also in my home state, I see there is a Museum of Early Trades and Crafts in Madison which throughout 2009 offers Food for Thought: Food and Cooking in Colonial America, a topic that fits 'Serge the Concierge'.
I will let you check what's on offer nearby you. I am sure you will find something that gets your attention.
To take advantage of the Free Admission you need to register for and download your Museum Day Admission Card which is good only for one museum. Only one card is allowed per household and good for the person who registered plus one guest. Cards will be collected upon entry.
Enjoy Museum Day 2009!