As if trying to come up with enough exciting things for your family to do all Summer isn't enough, trying not to spend an arm and a leg on the season's activities is a whole other thing. Although rounds of mini-golf and stopping the ice cream truck are classic Summer must-dos [1], your wallet will definitely thank you for opting to do something that costs virtually nothing — or actually nothing.
Sure, some of these activities require you to have a few supplies on hand (such as grocery items or outdoor playthings) or to travel somewhere (like a beach) that may not be free in your area, but for the most part, these plans won't cost you anything but time with your kids — and that's the way we like it.
How many will your family cross off this Summer?
Look for shapes in the clouds.
Swing at the park until you're out of breath with giggles.
Run through sprinklers.
Eat too many Popsicles.
Make wishes on dandelions.
Go across the lawn on a Slip 'N Slide for hours.
Take pictures of the prettiest flowers in the neighborhood.
Collect seashells.
Go on a nature walk.
Blow bubbles.
Have a water fight in the backyard.
Watch a sunset.
Have a picnic.
Fly a kite.
Have an outdoor dodgeball tournament.
Camp in the backyard.
Eat watermelon slices that look like smiles.
Catch fireflies in a jar.
Have an outdoor family game night.
Roast marshmallows over a real fire and make s'mores.
Make sidewalk chalk masterpieces.
Have an outdoor photo shoot.
Make ice cream in a bag.
Wash cars in the driveway.
Have an underwater tea party in the pool.
Read a book series.
Ride your bike from sunrise to sunset.
Stargaze.
Have a hula hoop contest.
Build a sand castle.
Ride scooters.
Play tag with all of the neighborhood kids.
Play Marco Polo while swimming.
Play in the rain.
Collect and paint rocks.
