10 fun things to do this summer that won’t break the bank!
Ahhh, the lazy days of summer, it’s your kids’ favorite time of the year—no school and no homework! But the novelty only lasts so long. It’s only a matter of time before you hear the all too familiar question, ”What can we do? We’re bored!”
With two whole months of summer vacation left, you’ll have to find some activities for the family that will keep them entertained but won’t break the bank. We’ve rounded up some frugal fun that will earn you big points without spending big bucks.
1. Dollar Movie Days
Many of the larger movie theater chains offer a summer program of weekly $1 family-friendly movies. Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express 2017 includes Kung Fu Panda 3, The Boxtrolls, The Secret Life of Pets, and Sing, to name a few. Stop at the Dollar Store or the grocery store for some movie-themed snacks, and you’ve got a fun and inexpensive morning out!
2. Let Target Pay
Target sponsors FREE admission to events and museums across the nation. Check out their site to see what’s happening near you. Maybe next time you won’t feel so bad when you can’t leave the store without spending $100.
3. Apple Camp
Have a child that’s interested in technology? Apple retail stores offer Apple Camp, where kids 8 to 12 can learn to make a movie or interactive book. It’s FREE so register here.
4. Kid Swap
Have a friend that’s a good baker, painter, or movie-taker? Make plans to swap days and kids. The kids will love it because they’ll have fun with their friends and maybe learn or experience something new. You’ll enjoy it because you’ll have some free time to run errands, get some work done, or get a manicure!
5. Go for a Hike
Not all hiking trails are designed for experienced adventurers. Download the All Trails app, and wherever you are, you’ll be able to find the perfect hike, bike ride, or trail run by length, rating, and difficulty level. Filter by dog or kid-friendly trails, or find trails with great views. Bring a bird watching book, pack a picnic, and make an afternoon of it.
6. Visit a Fire Station
Most local stations will be happy to arrange tours for kids. This is an exciting field trip for both preschooler and school-age children. They’ll love learning about the different fire trucks and meeting real live heroes.
7. Crafting Classes and Workshops
Check out some of your local big chain stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot for their FREE kids’ weekly wood project workshops. Michaels craft stores also sponsor inexpensive classes for kids that encourage imagination and allow their creativity to shine!
8. Camp out
It’s always fun to sleep where you normally don’t, so whether it’s in a national park, in the backyard or under your dining room table draped with sheets, you can still call it camping!
9. Family Bowling
Bowling is always a fun time for families. Register your kids at Kids Bowl Free, to participate in a nationwide program where kids get to bowl two games for free every day during the summer at their local bowling alley.
10. Host a Scavenger Hunt
This may sound like a lot of work, but you can make it as simple or as elaborate as you like and Wikihow is just one of the many sites with instructions and great ideas.
Whatever your summer plans are, go out and enjoy yourself. Just know that all fun doesn’t have to break the bank. There are tons of things you can do that will create lasting memories and still allow you to stay within budget. Be creative and resourceful, and you’ll have the best summer yet!