What do you do if you want to have a fun summer but you don’t want to spend a lot of money? You think up free ways to have a good time and keep yourself and your family entertained! Which is actually not such a difficult thing to pull off- there are plenty of free things you can do this summer that are fun, exciting, and interesting. Here’s a list of some free things to do in the summer:

1. Take a city tour: There are often formal tours that you can join, but why not shake things up and do it yourself? Get a city map and choose destinations along the way. Make it fun and give your walk a theme.
2. Check your community calendar: You’re sure to find free events, like concerts, movie screenings, book readings, and more.
3. Have a picnic: Yes, an old-fashioned picnic! Pack up a blanket, drinks, and sandwiches. Or go upscale with salads, dips, baguettes, and wine.
4. Go biking. Biking is fun and it’s also a free way to get in some exercise.
5. Take a hike: Spend some time in nature, and don’t forget the insect repellent.
6. Free museum days: Many museums have a day of the week, or some hours when admission is free. This is a great activity for a day when it’s too hot to be outside.
7. Library activities: Most libraries have free story hours, concerts, lectures, or other free activities for kids and adults.
8. Throw a potluck party: Socialize without being responsible for the total cost of hosting.
9. Movie night at home: Invite friends over, or just snuggle up with the family and some popcorn.
10. Game night: Take out those old board games, unplug, and have some fun!
11. Water balloon fight: So much fun and great for cooling off on a hot day!
12. Swim at a public pool: Check for locations in your city.
13. Free kids’ workshops: Home Depot and Lowe’s host them every few weeks.
14. Go to a playground: Parks and playgrounds are a great free option for keeping kids busy. Playground activity is way better than screens, and especially fun and refreshing when the sprinklers are on! Keep it interesting and go to a different one each time.
15. Make your own bubbles: Blowing bubbles is a classic summer activity. Make it more fun and make your own bubble slution and wand! Watch this video for instructions.

You don’t have to spend a lot or go far to have a good time. You can actually have fun for free, sometimes as close as your own backyard!