Making sure your kids have a great break this summer is a bit overwhelming, is it not? Don’t get bogged down with over thinking it, though. Kids are pretty easy to please, even if you aren’t and even if you don’t know what to do with them to make their vacations fun. Check out these simple ideas that can cost less $100.
Build a tree house
Have your kids always asked for a tree house? Build them one! If you can’t do that, though, try a getaway that is similar to one. You can either take them camping in the great outdoors, or pitch a tent in your own backyard. Either way, some time sleeping under the stars and in the fresh air may be just what your kids need and want this summer.
Museum time
Every town has a museum to celebrate its history, or you live close to a town that does. Take your kids there and let them learn all about where they live and how this town came to be. Entry fees to museums and art galleries are fairly inexpensive during the day, and if you can manage a weekday trip it can be even cheaper.
Dine outdoors
Whether you take a picnic or sit on the patio of a local cafe, take your ids outdoors for some fun food and lots of laughs. Many parent over think summer vacation ideas, but it really can be as simple as packing the kids up and hitting the lake for some fun in the sun and outdoor dining. It’s new, out of the norm of your every day, and so much more casual to dine outdoors. Want to really take it up a notch? Summer festivals abound in most every city, so pick one and have a fun day of trying local and new cuisine all while enjoying the sun.
Go to the zoo
Kids love animals- and you know you do, too! Check out the great summer discounts local petting and viewing zoos have to offer and take the kids for a trip to see the wild animals. If you start looking ahead of time, many zoos will post package deals where you can buy multiple tickets at a discounted rate. Check out the zoo’s website for the best information on the hottest summer savings.
Hit the arcade
Give each kid a $20 allowance and let them run wild in the arcade or local play center. It may not be a trip away from home for very long, but it is something fun that you don’t do often and that’s sometimes all you need. Give yourself some spending money, too, and have fun at the put-put range. You can also go bowling, shooting pool, or throwing darts (if you think your kids are old enough for that). A day of fun and games never hurt anyone and it doesn’t have to be that expensive.
How are you having fun this summer on a budget? Leave us a comment and let us know!
Liz Mays says
I love the zoo and they often do special activities and events worth checking out. The arcade will last a good long time with $20 too — great idea!
Mickey says
My kids would love all of these suggestions! We’ll have to keep them in mind for a fun family day soon.
robyn says
We love going to our local zoo and try to visit zoos when we are traveling also. My kids never get enough of eating outdoors!
Dee @ Cocktails with Mom says
My kids always have a blast at the arcade. One of their favorite things to do and once we are there, the kid comes out of me and my husband so it’s really something fun for everyone to do.
Rachel @RunningRachel says
Love the zoo! My boys always LOVE all the animals! 🙂
Lisa @ Crazy Adventures in Parenting says
Tree house! Yes!! Is it weird that I’ve always ALWAYS wanted a tree house all my life!? Praying we eventually move into a house with a ginormous tree so we can build one 🙂
Digna D. says
Keeping it simple is a great way for kids to have lots of fun, while saving us parents mega bucks. Kids won’t know the difference if you don’t tell.
Kimberly Grabinski says
We have a couple of museums I want to visit this summer, and the zoo as well. Great list!
Lisa says
Great list! Also, some of these places have days that are free! (Or at least here, they do)
Chelle @ Oh Just Stop Already says
Eating outside is awesome. Premake dinner and take it to the local park or trails to enjoy your surroundings.
Julie says
The zoo is our favorite. My kids would go every day if they could!
Angela S says
I am loving these ideas. The zoo and dining outdoors are some of my faves.
Shell Feis says
They shut down our only zoo {which was a joke anyway- hence, shutting it down} and I’m so bummed! I’ve been thinking about taking a mini road trip to visit a zoo. The rest of your ideas I could totally do, thanks for the inspiration!
Amy Adams says
Zoo looks fun! 🙂