What's Free for Families in the Rochester Area? Here's a Start

On the first day of a four-day President's Day mini-break for many families in Rochester, we are compiling a list of fun but free — or cheap — things to do in Rochester and Rochester Hills. 

(Thanks to the Patch reader who inspired this story idea!)

We need your help: In the comments below, add your suggestions for Rochester families. 

Here's a start:

Exploring nature: Did you know the trails at Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve are open all day every day? You can walk along the creek and spy on the wildlife in the woods of the Rochester trails. On Sundays, the Nature Center is open to the public from noon to 3 p.m. and kids can borrow snowshoes and cross-country skis to explore the trails, too.

Bring your own skates: You'll want to call ahead (248-656-4657) to check the ice-skating conditions at Spencer Park in Rochester Hills; on Friday afternoon, a park attendant said he was hopeful the ice would cooperate and allow for skating this weekend. The pond at Rochester Municipal Park is also open for skating, weather and safety precautions permitting.

From yoga to storytime: The Rochester Hills Public Library has a winter calendar full of free activities for kids and their parents, too. There are video game days for teens, storytime and Lego days for kids and concerts for the whole family. In fact, there's a new activity popping up every time we look (this morning the library is offering kids' yoga, for instance). Registration is required for most activities. 

Fishing: Twice a year, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources waives the license requirement for anglers in the state; this weekend (Feb. 16-17) happens to be one of those "Free Fishing" weekends. Head to Stony Creek Metropark for fishing fun.  

What else? Share your ideas for inexpensive family fun in the Rochester area.