Whether you’ve got kids out of school, grandkids visiting, or just need a break from routine that doesn’t break the bank, there’s plenty of frugal fun to be had.
Here are my favorite cheap summer trip ideas for families, singles, couples and empty nesters alike — proof that great memories don’t need a five-star price tag.
1. BE A TOURIST IN YOUR OWN TOWN
Most of us haven’t explored the gems hiding in plain sight. Pretend you’re new in town — check out the local museum or botanical garden, or take a walking tour. Use review sites like TripAdvisor to uncover hidden treasures.
2. TAKE A DAY TRIP
One tank of gas can take you somewhere new. Look for small towns nearby with quirky attractions or scenic parks. Pack a cooler and you’ve got a budget-friendly getaway that’s home before dark.
3. PLAN A BACKYARD CAMPOUT
Set up a tent in the backyard and roast marshmallows over the grill. Stargaze, tell stories and pretend you’re in the wild. It’s the easiest “trip” you’ll ever take — and no bathroom lines!
4. DIY FOOD CRAWL
Pick a food — ice cream, tacos or milkshakes — and sample local spots with friends or family. Rate them and pick a winner. It’s like a reality show — but cheaper and tastier.
5. VISIT STATE PARKS INSTEAD OF THEME PARKS
State and county parks offer hiking trails, swimming lakes, picnic areas and sometimes even cabins to rent overnight — all for a tiny entrance fee. Bring a picnic and spend the day soaking up nature.
6. U-PICK FARMS
Strawberries, blueberries, peaches — oh my! U-pick farms are fun and inexpensive, and you leave with fresh fruit. Bonus: It doubles as a wholesome family activity.
7. LOOK FOR FREE MUSEUM DAYS
Many museums offer free or discounted admission days. Your local library might even have museum passes you can borrow. Call ahead or check online for schedules.
8. ATTEND FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS
Cities often host free summer concerts, movie nights and street fairs. Check your local parks department or newspaper calendar. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy some live entertainment.
9. SUNRISE OR SUNSET TOUR
Choose a few new locations to watch the sunrise or sunset each week. Whether it’s a mountaintop or just the neighborhood park bench, it’s peaceful, beautiful and totally free.
10. GO RETRO WITH A DRIVE-IN
Drive-in movie theaters still exist! You can bring your own snacks, stay in your comfy car and sometimes catch a double feature for less than one ticket at a standard theater.
11. VOLUNTEER FOR A DAY
Spending time at a food bank, animal shelter or community garden can be a meaningful way to spend a summer day. It costs nothing and adds value to your community (and your heart).
12. CREATE A BUCKET LIST JAR
Write down fun, cheap ideas on slips of paper, and let the kids (or your inner child) draw one each week. Include things like “go on a $5 thrift store challenge” or “bake cookies and deliver them to neighbors.”
No matter who you are or where you live, a little creativity goes a long way. The best summer memories don’t always come with a hotel key or boarding pass — sometimes they’re found in your own backyard or just one town over.
For even more budget-friendly ideas and clever summer tips, check out the full version of this post at EverydayCheapskate.com/summerfun.
