This. 5 years ago it may have been easier, but I don't remember the last time I was even able to connect to a free publicly available wifi signal, whether I did or not.
This is interesting...makes me feel out of touch. I wasn't aware that it was on the decline because the only place I really use it are at the coffeehouse and home. Are there stats on this? What's causing it? Years ago I remember there were many movements for MORE public wifi. What happened?