If you are a budget-conscious family trying to find a summer vacation destination that is kid-friendly and affordable, then this is the blog for you.
Finding ways for a family of four to enjoy a day or evening together without having to shell out a ton of money to cover the cost of admission or pricey meals can be a challenge. However, it is possible. All it takes is a little planning and creativity.
Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
For $10:
· Pack a picnic; strap it to your bikes and head to one of the many local parks that provide free summer concerts. Spread out the blanket, chow down on your homemade goodies and groove to the sounds of local entertainers.
· Bike or roller blade along your city or town’s recreational trails. Some trails offer day passes (typically, they don’t cost more than $2 apiece) that provide access to pathways with enough room for cyclists, inline skaters, families with strollers… even horseback riders.
For $20:
· Watch movies the old-fashioned way at a drive-in theater. Prices are generally lower than those found at traditional movie theaters. The drive-in movie theater near our home charges $6 for adults and kids 12 years and younger get in for free. If you arrive early your children can play on the swings (most drive-ins have playgrounds, basketball or volleyball courts). The money you saved on admission can go to purchase refreshments (ice cream, candy, popcorn or soda).
· Splash around at a local waterpark. I’m not referring to the mega-chain varities. I’m talking about your town or city’s neighborhood pool. Admission at local pools typically runs between $3 and $5. You can beat the summer heat swimming in the pool or if you are lucky your aquatic center will have a few kid-friendly water slides.
For $40:
· Take a trip to your local Botanical Garden. Admission is typically $5 per person (children under 5, generally get in for free). Enjoy the myriad varieties of plants and flowers. Capture candid moments of your children by the fountain and learn about different flora and fauna in the Garden’s greenhouses.
· Visit your local Children’s Museum. In most parts of the country admission for adults and children is under $7 per person. Spend the day touring the building and taking part in the many hands-on activities available for kids of all ages.
· Head out to the ballpark and watch a minor-league team in action. Seats are generally less than $10 per person, leaving you with enough cash for concessions and a couple of souvenirs.
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