10 Cheap Summer Activities for Kids

Some of my favorite summer memories include last-minute trips to the rocky beaches south of San Francisco. Mom would take my sister and me hunting through slimy kelp looking for fish, shrimp, and if we were lucky, a shark or octopus. But it was those impromptu trips that showed my love for learning and epic adventures that don’t have to break the bank.

Summer doesn’t have to cost a fortune. As the school bells ring for the last time before the summer break, parents everywhere are faced with the age-old question: how to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank? Fear not! Here are ten fantastic, wallet-friendly activities to keep your children engaged, entertained, and educated throughout the summer months.

10 Cheap Options

Library Visits

Most local libraries offer free summer reading programs for kids, complete with incentives like stickers, bookmarks, and even small prizes. Make it a weekly outing, and let your child explore new worlds through books.

Nature Walks

Lace up those sneakers, pack some snacks, and hit the trails! Whether it’s a nearby park, nature reserve, or even just a stroll around the neighborhood, nature walks provide endless opportunities for discovery and adventure.

Do-It-Yourself Science Experiments

Turn your kitchen into a laboratory and let your little Einsteins unleash their inner mad scientist. From homemade volcanoes to do-it-yourself slime, the possibilities are as endless as they are budget-friendly.

Art in the Park

Grab some sidewalk chalk, watercolors, or even just a pad of paper and some crayons, and head to the nearest park. Let your child’s creativity run wild as they paint, draw, and create masterpieces amidst the beauty of nature.

Picnic Playdates

Coordinate with other parents and pack a picnic lunch for a day of fun in the sun. Bring along frisbees, soccer balls, or jump ropes for some classic outdoor games that never go out of style.

Community Events

Check out local community calendars for free or low-cost events happening in your area. From concerts in the park to outdoor movie nights, there’s bound to be something the whole family can enjoy.

Baking Bonanza

Spend a rainy afternoon in the kitchen baking up a storm. Whip up a batch of cookies, try your hand at homemade pizza, or get creative with cake decorating. Not only is it a fun activity, but you also get to enjoy the delicious results together.

Backyard Camping

Pitch a tent, roll out the sleeping bags, and spend a night under the stars in your own backyard. Toast marshmallows over a makeshift campfire (safely, of course), tell ghost stories, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Local Museums and Zoos

Many museums and zoos offer free or discounted admission days throughout the summer. Take advantage of these opportunities to expose your child to art, culture, and wildlife without breaking the bank.

Do-It-Yourself Outdoor Movie Night

Transform your backyard into a cinema under the stars with a do-it-yourself outdoor movie night. Hang a sheet or set up a projector screen, pop some popcorn, and cozy up with blankets for a family movie marathon.

Bargain Opportunities

These free or cheap activities are just a jumping off point to get you started with your summer routine, you can keep your elementary-aged children entertained, engaged, and enriched without blowing your budget. From literary adventures to outdoor escapades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – no expensive theme parks or exotic vacations required. So, grab your sunblock, pack a picnic, and get ready for a summer full of fun-filled memories that won’t cost a fortune.