Woke up this Tuesday itching to get outside without draining my wallet. Remembered how many hidden gems I’ve found in Troy over the years, so grabbed my notebook and phone to track free spots worth sharing. Started by driving straight to Troy Historic Village right when they opened at 10 AM.
First Stop: Troy Historic Village
Parked near the general store building – saw they charge for tours but wandering the outdoor grounds is totally free. Walked around the 1800s log cabins and blacksmith shop for about 45 minutes. Took photos of the cool windmill while some volunteer gardeners were trimming herbs. Best part? They’ve got these old-fashioned wooden toys near the schoolhouse that kids can play with.
Nature Fix at Firefighters Park
Drove five minutes down Wattles Road to Firefighters Park around lunchtime. Made a sandwich in my car (gotta save cash!) then followed the walking trails behind the pond. Saw turtles sunbathing near the boardwalk. Ended up sitting near the waterfall for half an hour just listening to water sounds. Didn’t cost a dime except for my PB&J supplies.
Afternoon Treasure Hunt
Got curious about Troy’s public art scene after seeing that mural near Big Beaver last week. Decided to walk downtown Troy and found:
- A painted piano outside City Hall
- Those metal sculptures near the library that look like giant book pages
- Mosaic tiles around the fountain at Civic Center Park
Just kept looping streets taking iPhone pics – probably covered two miles without realizing it. Feet were killing me but saved $15 museum admission.
Hidden Surprise on John R
Was heading home around 4 PM when I spotted Troy Community Garden near the railroad tracks. Pulled over to peek and met this retired guy name Fred tending tomatoes. He showed me around all 34 plots – said anyone can walk through anytime to see what’s growing. Got lifehack for next time: they let you take small herb cuttings if you ask nicely.
Totally spent $0 on entertainment besides gas money today. Proved you can explore Troy without cash if you know where to wander. Might hit up those free summer concerts next week!
