You want to have summer fun – that “perfect” summer you see on television or read in books. But, you don’t want the massive credit card bill to go along with it. We know – you scroll on Instagram and see another friend on a luxury trip to Europe. Sure, that’s fun, but it also is expensive.
What if we told you there’s plenty of fun things do this summer that are Insta-worthy and won’t break the bank? Don’t believe us? Here are 30 summer activities that’ll give you the quintessential summer vibe, all without draining your wallet.
30 Inexpensive but Fun Things to Do This Summer
For your convenience these activities are divided into outdoor, out and about, or homebody activities. So, choose a vibe and start having fun!
Outdoor Options
Have a themed picnic
Sure, any picnic will do, but making it a themed one will take it to the next level. Pick your favorite vibe (Italian summer, all-pink, etc) – the aesthetic will make it feel special and definitely Insta-worthy.
Go to the beach or a local lake
What is more summer than this?! Pack snacks, a speaker and a towel. You’ll have free (or almost free) entertainment for hours while getting to swim, tan and people watch.
Go on a long “hot girl walk”
Put you headphones in, play your favorite podcast or playlist, and then get walking. It’s good for your mood, your body, and is low-effort.
Watch the sunset (or sunrise)
Pick a scenic spot near you. Bring some drinks – whether that be coffee or wine depending on the time of day – and take in the beauty of a sunset or sunrise.
Go stargazing
Cue Myles Smith’s “Stargazing”! Drive somewhere dark and enjoy the peaceful, romantic and totally free view. Do it once when you find that sweet spot to gaze from and you’ll keep coming back to this fun thing to do during the summer.
Go biking
Hit up a trail or simply bike around you town. If you live near the beach, bike down the boardwalk with the beach next to you. What’s more summer than that?!
Plan a day trip nearby
Is there a really cool town, beach, lake, forest near you? Hop on the train or take a drive and go check it out. This will give you travel vibes without the price of flights or hotels.
Enjoy the pool
Do your parents have a pool? Do your friends? Cousins? Ask to go over. but make sure to bring a little offering when you do such as homemade desserts, drinks, or even a really cool playlist you can listen to together.
Host a potluck dinner
You can do this indoors or outdoors depending on your space or the weather. Have everyone bring one dish and you’ll get a full meal for the same cost of making just one thing. You can make this themed too if you really want.
Have a movie night at home or outside
You can use your TV or projectors – whatever you have at home. So, pop some popcorn, grab some sodas and you can have the same vibes as going to the movie theater, all without the price of a ticket and snacks.
Going Out and About to Do Fun Things for This Summer
Explore a new neighborhood
Walk around somewhere that you’ve never been, whether it be local or a bit of a drive. It’ll feel like you’re traveling without paying for a trip.
Go thrifting
Give yourself a budget and go hunting for some gems. Whether it’s cheap clothes, furniture, decor or whatever, you’ll feel a real thrill of finding something unique. Plus, in the summer, there’s tons of outdoor flea markets to check out.
Visit a farmers market
If you want to buy things, stick to a budget. Otherwise, you can just walk around, take advantage of samples, and people-watch.
Attend a free local event
Cities tend to have some free events going on during the summer, whether it be local concerts, festivals, outdoor movies, street fairs and so on.
Do a photo walk
There are so many picturesque parts of nature during the summertime. Take pictures of anything that catches your eye. Print them and frame them, so you have summer with you all season long.
Try a free workout class
We know workout classes can be expensive. Many parks or studios offer free ones in the summer, especially trial classes. So keep a look out for those, and you’ll get to try something new without any commitment to a membership.
Have a “no-spend day” challenge
Find ways to have fun this summer without buying a thing. It’s harder than you may think… and it’ll turn saving money into a game.
Volunteer somewhere local
Animal shelters and food banks are just some of the places always looking for volunteers. You’ll be doing something social, all while making a difference.
Go to a museum on a free day
Did you know most museums, zoos, etc. have one day of the week where there’s free entry? Check schedules ahead of time and then plan to go that day.
Ideas for Staying In and Having Fun
Start a summer reading list
Start using your library card, swap books with friends, or find cheap books at thrift stores. There are so many great books that are perfect for summer, like these.
Try a new recipe night
Cook something that you’ve never made before. It’ll be a fun thing to do, no pressure, and it’s way cheaper than eating out this summer. Plus, you’ll probably get leftovers.
Host a game night
You probably already have this at home – cards, board games or party games. But, if you don’t, your friends likely do. Have everyone bring their favorite game and you’ll have hours of fun, entertainment as well as friendly competition for $0.
Have a DIY spa day
We can all use a spa day, but let’s be honest, it can be real expensive. Have one at home with some face masks, doing your own nails, and a relaxing playlist. You’ll get some self-care without salon prices.
Rearrange or redecorate your room
When was the last time you switched things up? Use what you already have and rearrange or redecorate your room. It’ll give you a fresh start without needing to buy anything new.
Have a DIY food/wine tasting night
You can do this on a budget with wines you may already have or wines that aren’t too expensive. Have everyone bring a bottle of wine and/or some bites. You’ll feel fancy without the big fancy price.
Watch a nostalgic show or movie series
There’s just something about summer that makes us feel like kids again, doesn’t it? Think of your childhood favorite shows or movie series. Plan a day to watch them – especially if it’s a rainy summer day.
Do a closet clean-out and swap with friends
Clean out your closet but invite friends over when you do it. Swap clothes you’re no longer wearing with your friends and vice-versa. This will give you a “new” wardrobe for free and possibly introduce a new fun thing to do each summer.
Start journaling
Sit outside, have a few moments alone, reflect, brain dump or plan. If journaling sounds stuffy and boring look up some journaling ideas. There are so many non-traditional options. You’ll get free mental clarity while taking in some fresh air.
Have a themed music playlist night
Everyone can share their music. Turn your yard or apartment into a music venue. Before you know it, you’ll be discovering new songs without the price of a concert ticket.
Do absolutely nothing (intentionally)
Isn’t this the best part of summer? That feeling of no responsibilities? Just lay in the sun, relax, and unplug. Rest is so important, yet extremely underrated.
Final Thoughts on 30 Fun Things to Do This Summer
It may seem summer comes with a high price tag when you want to have fun. But, that is farthest from the truth. Allow yourself some creativity or just pull one idea from this list to get started!
About the Author
Michelle graduated from Fordham University with a Bachelors of Arts '13 and a Master of Arts '14. She's currently working in corporate America with a side of freelance writing. She wants you to learn from her experiences and mistakes so your 20s can be your best decade. When she's not working, she's likely planning her escape to a tropical island.