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Parents are always looking for new ideas and activities to do with their kids during the summer. Aside from their weekly sports and their other varied outings there continues to be time when children are home and families need something new and exciting to do.
As parents, we know that sometimes children get tired or bored in the middle of an activity, but this comes into focus much sharper when you’ve paid good (sometimes big) money for it. How many stories are there where we take our kids to an expensive theme park only to have them get sick on a ride. Understandably, the “having fun” part comes to a screeching halt and you need to leave the park – losing those big entry fees in the process. Of course, these unfortunate events will sometimes happen. However, if you were someplace that didn’t involve a financial investment, that trip doesn’t have to be a total loss.
We wanted to offer you a list below of our top 8 FREE places to take kids this summer. Remember, If an unexpected problem arises while you’re visiting - you can leave without losing a thing!
1. MUSEUM “FREE DAYS”
Many museums across the country offer a “free day” at least once a month. This can be a great opportunity for families to visit and explore without spending any money. Free days are usually very popular, so it's a good idea to arrive early and plan to spend the whole day at the museum. Be sure to take advantage of all that museum has to offer, including special exhibits, family-friendly activities, and educational programs. Keep in mind that some of the greatest museums that our country has to offer are always free! For example check out the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. And if you get hungry, most museums have cafes or restaurants where you can grab a bite. So next time you're looking for something fun to do on a budget, be sure to check out your local museum's free day.
2. A SHOPPING MALL
Shopping malls in America have changed… a lot. Besides a place to shop, a trip to the mall is a great way to beat the heat this summer. In addition to air-conditioned comfort and a wide variety of shops, many malls also offer free family-friendly activities. For example, my local mall has a weekly "Kids Club" where children can participate in arts and crafts, listen to stories, and meet other kids their age. There are also several play areas where kids can let off some energy, as well as stroller parking for parents with young children. Best of all, these activities are completely free - just show up and enjoy! So next time you're looking for something to do on a hot summer day, head to your nearest mall for some fun.
3. NATIONAL PARKS
National parks are a great way to get outdoors and enjoy some family time. And the best part is that many are free to enter! This makes them a great option for summertime fun. There are national parks all across the country, so there is sure to be one near you. And if you are planning a road trip, be sure to include a few national parks on your itinerary. There are over 400 National Parks across the country and even those that are not always free offer “free days.” Check the website of the National Park Service for complete info. The kids will love getting out of the car and exploring all the different hiking trails and wildlife. So next time you are looking for something fun to do, be sure to check out your local national park!
4. FESTIVALS AND FAIRS
One of the best things about summertime is the plethora of free state fairs and festivals that occur across the country. These family-friendly events are a great way to get out of the house and enjoy some fun activities without spending a lot of money. Kids will love riding the rides, playing games, and eating cotton candy, while adults can enjoy live music, artisanal foods, and more. There's something for everyone at a state fair or festival, making them the perfect way to spend a summer day. Best of all, they're usually free to attend, so you can enjoy all the fun without breaking the bank. The State Fair of Louisiana is just one example of a free fair. Gate admission is FREE every weekday from 11am- 3pm! So next time you're looking for something to do on a summer day, be sure to do your homework and check out your local state fair or festival. You're sure to have a blast.
5. FREE CONCERTS AND MOVIES
One of the best things about summertime is all the free concerts and movies that are available. Families can enjoy a variety of live music performances, from classical to rock, and there are generally a number of family-friendly movies playing in parks and other public spaces. This is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening, especially if you have kids. Not only are these activities free, but they're also a great opportunity to explore different genres of music or film and to spend time together as a family. So take advantage of all the free concerts and movies this summer!
6. FREE FOOD ACTIVITIES
One great free activity is to visit a local farmer's market. Not only will you be able to find fresh, seasonal produce, but you'll also get to meet the people who grew it. This is a great way to support your local community and get the family out in nature.
Or – make your own! Why not try your hand at making homemade ice cream? It's easier than you might think and it's a great way to beat the heat. All you need is some milk, cream, sugar, and your favorite flavorings. Just mix everything together and put it in an ice cream maker. In no time at all, you'll have delicious homemade ice cream!
7. LIBRARIES
The library is a great place for parents and children to spend time together. Not only does it provide a wide variety of books and other materials, but it also offers a number of free events. These events can include story times, puppet shows, and movie nights. They are a great way for parents and children to bond and have fun together. In addition, they can help to foster a love of learning in children. And best of all, they are free! So next time you're looking for something to do with the kids, be sure to check out your local library's event calendar.
Back to school season doesn't have to be all about buying new supplies and clothes. And when you're ready for some more educational fun, visit SchoolAssemblies.com for the best assembly programs out there. Our selection covers a variety of topics and grade levels, so finding the perfect fit is easy. With everything from science assemblies to holiday-themed shows, we have something for everyone. So head on over and check us out today!
8. FARMS
If you live in a rural area or the suburbs of a city there may farms in your area which are free. Entering the farm is free and if you choose to participate in some of the activities there is sometimes a nominal fee. Another fun activity is to go on a fruit picking adventure. Many orchards and farms offer this activity for free. This is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. It’s always fun to pick the fruit and bake something from the fresh fruit at home! How about making some homemade applesauce with the fruit you’ve picked!
Depending on the farm there may be a variety of activities that you can enjoy. They may have farm animals to pet, a playground, a bike path, or a butterfly garden. They also may have some free children’s classes or summer camps. It is worth investigating the farms in your area to see what they have available.
CONCLUSION
There are plenty of ways to have fun with your family without spending a lot of money. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon or you want to start incorporating educational activities into your routine, we hope this list of the Top 8 FREE activities for kids has given you some great ideas. And don’t forget – the more involved you are in your child’s learning process, the better they will do. So get out there and have some fun while you help them grow!
Our readers would love to hear your ideas for FREE KIDS ACTIVITIES! Please leave a comment below!
When school’s back in session, please visit SchoolAssemblies to see what kind of a school assembly would work best at your elementary school!