by contributing writer Karen
Staycations are a great way to have family fun without the high cost of gas or hotel expenses. Here are a few things to consider when planning a staycation in your city.
Camping
Camping in s great way to get away from home and spend very little money. If you don’t have a tent, ask a friend if your can borrow theirs. Check for local parks that offer camping spots for minimal nightly fees. You can bring your own cooler and even cook over an open fire or on a propane stove. Our kids love camping, collecting sticks for the campfire and roasting marshmallows.
National Parks
There are several specific dates that you can get free entrance to National Parks. Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. If you live near a national park, this is a great way to save.
Summer Kids Movies
Check with your local movie theaters. Some offer free summer kids movies and some charge a minimal fee per person. These are usually older movies, but seeing them in a theater is a great way to experience it again. Also check with your theater for concession stand deals during these events. It’s a great way to get out of the summer heat.
Craft Classes
Many craft stores offer craft classes for kids with make-and-take crafts. Summer time is a great time to take advantage of these and have some craft fun with the kids. Be sure to also check with your local home improvement stores for free workshops.
Art Markets
There are several local Art Markets in my city and many cities have these. You can enjoy the outdoors and experience local artists, music and even shop local farmers stands for fresh fruits and vegetables.
Vacation Bible Schools
My kids love to attend Vacation Bible schools and there are several to choose from in our area. If they are not free, the fee is usually minimal to cover the cost of supplies.
Sports
Baseball teams and even soccer teams maybe playing in your local area during the summer. Check with your city for family nights or buy 1 get 1 ticket free nights. These are great times to attend the event and not spend as much money.
Local Museums
Some Museums have teamed up with local banks to offer free admission on specific days of the month. Check with your banks and museums for more information.
Community Pools
Local School and community centers typically open up their pools to the public during the summer.
Free Bowling
Check with Kids Bowl Free to see if there is a bowling alley near you participating. Registered kids receive 2 free games for the summer.
What is your favorite frugal summer activity or staycation idea?
Kelly Hess says
Find a free splash pad in your area, my kids love it!
Karen says
I think I love those too! A great way to entertain kids and keep cool. Thanks Kelly
Amy R. says
If you live in the Chicago area, you can sign your kids up for the Chicago White Sox kids club, and get 4 free tickets for each child. We go throughout the summer, and plan to arrive early, and park for free a couple blocks away from the park, along with our picnic lunch/dinner.
Joan Price says
How about sight seeing in the city? Just recently my family and I took a trip to Virginia and took one of those Washington DC Bus Tours. We got to check out all the historic sites around the city and even had a picnic over by the Washington Monument. Truly a great trip.