Free & Cheap Summer Fun

Summer is upon us.  The kids are out of school and I’m looking for ways to keep them busy.  Getting them all tired out for an early bedtime is just an added bonus.  I’ve added specific links for my area, but you should be able to take the ideas and find places in your neck of the woods.

Library –  The public library is always a good place to take the kids during the summer (and all year long).  Reading is essential for kids, and you can stay cool during the heat of the afternoon.  Head to your local library during storytime to maximize the fun.  Don’t forget about the Border’s and Barnes and Noble summer reading programs for all the books you check out.

Parks-My family loves to go to the park.  Parks have the obvious swings and slides but don’t forget about the open play area for the kids to run around in.  Play a game of tag, bring the baseball to throw, pack a picnic, whatever your kids like to do.  A few to try: Fun Forst, Northwest River Park, Oak Grove Park, Mt. Trashmore, First Landing Park (formally Seashore State Park), 1st Street at the Oceanfront.  Try a different park in your area each week to mix it up a bit.

Vacation Bible School – My kids attend at least 1 vacation bible school program during the summer.  Look for signs outside local churches.  VBS is free although some require a donation of school supplies or items for a specific charity.  The kids are learning values and interacting with other children. Bonus? Parents get a break which makes it even better!

Minor League Sports – Tickets for minor league sporting events tend to be less expensive and more manageable for a family to afford.  The Norfolk Tides offer many incentives to get you into the park.  If the kids can hang, pick a night with fireworks.

Movie Theatres – Theatres seem to be competing for your patronage this summer, so take advantage of the discounts on the hot summer afternoons.  Check out the Regal, Cinemark, and AMC deals. Also, Cinema Cafe offers $1 tickets on Twisted Tuesdays.

Bowling – Just like the discounted movies, you can bowl cheap this summer.  Kids Bowl Free at AMF or purchase discounted lanes for the entire family. 

Free Workshops – Check Home Depot, Lowes, Michael’s, and Bass Pro Shops .  All offer free or cheap workshops for kids.

Local Amusement parks – We like to get a seasons pass to Busch Gardens, Watercountry USA or Ocean Breeze when the budget allows.  I do like that Busch Garden’s offers a deal for VA residents called a Fun Pass.  Pay the price of a one day pass and use it during the entire summer season.  Remember to pack a lunch or eat before you go in the afternoon to avoid blowing your food budget.

Museum’s –  Look for coupons and special discounts (such as in the entertainment book) to give the kids a little culture during their summer break.  Try the VA Living Museum, Chrysler Museum, Air and Space Center, Children’s Museum, VA Aquarium, Nauticus, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown, Jamestown, or Mariner’s Museum.

Outdoor Attractions –  As with museums look for coupons and discounts. Try the Norfolk Zoo, Botanical Gardens-WOW, or Bluebird Gap Farm.  I like to go with friends. The kids have someone to run around with, and I get an adult to talk to.

Take a day or overnight trip – Go camping, head to North Carolina,  Washington DC, Lake Gaston or the Shenandoah Mountains.  You could always try camping in the backyard to avoid a site fee.  Derrick will be taking Moneyboy camping for the first time this year.  We’re also thinking of leaving for the DC Zoo early one morning and driving back that same evening.  Our biggest expense will be the gas since I’ll pack our food before heading out.

The Beach – If you live in Hampton Roads, chances are there is a beach not too far from you.  I like to go to the bay, Sandbridge or around 80th street at the Oceanfront.  I prefer areas with less tourists.  My kids could play in the sand and splash in the waves for hours.  Pack some buckets and shoves, plenty of snacks and water and you’re set.

Just get outside – Take a walk (maybe play I Spy), take a bike ride (try Dismal Swamp Trail), or just play in the backyard.  You could turn on the sprinkler, get $1 water squirter at the Dollar Tree, kick the ball or eat lunch outside. Your imagination is the limit.

Pool – The chances are pretty high that you have access to a pool somewhere.  Are you a YMCA or Rec Center member?  Ask a  friend, family member or neighbor.  My kiddos would swim all day if I let them.  Monekyboy is a little fish now and LuLu is learning.  She still wears a floaty suit when we’re not practicing but as long as the suit is on, she’s good to go. 

Night Activities – TGIF at Town Point Park and Mt. Trashmore Movie Night

I’d love to hear about other ideas you may have