The work week is finally over and you’re ready for the weekend. Weeeeeeeeee—- Who doesn’t like free time? But wait, all that free time might mean some money spending so you can fill that time with something to do. Taking your family out to dinner and a movie can be cool $100 these days, and you might not be able to spend that kind of money every Weekend. So here’s some of my favorite frugal, low cost ideas for your weekend activity enjoyment.
1- explore your parks
You probably have some type of county or national park near you. Why not take everyone out to see it. Do some shopping around and find out which one is the most cost effective for you. You might be surprised to find some parks that have very low costs for entry. I have the option to go to one of my beautiful county parks on the marsh and river for only $1 per car.
If you don’t have any of these types of parks, then find just a good old plain park that you haven’t been to in a while. Maybe one that you’ve never been to. Some fresh air is always a good thing.
2- Take a long walk
When you walk around you can really see things that you may not have noticed when you were driving so quickly to get home. You can talk a walk around your neighborhood or choose to go somewhere nearby. You know the exercise is good for you.
3- Take a bike ride
Is walking not your thing? Then try a bike ride instead. You can try the same routes (maybe a little longer) with your bikes. Some good fresh air, and if you haven’t done it in a while you probably forgot how fun it was to do. There’s nothing like a good bike ride.
4- Make dinner and a movie at home
Instead of spending $100 on dinner and a movie going out why not just stay in and do it for much less? You can pick out your favorite new blu ray flick that you want to see and everyone can see it for under $2 from redbox. Then get some popcorn and candy from the grocery store and you’re all set.
While you’re at the grocery store you can cheat and pick up one of those ready meals to enjoy dinner without having to do anything. Not as cheap as making it yourself, but it can be much less than eating out (if you buy the right things).
5- Explore your city
If you live near a city then you can take advantage of it by walking around during the day and exploring it. Pack a picnic lunch and you can avoid paying to eat out while also enjoying the outdoors. Do some window shopping around your city, and maybe even be on the lookout for some birthday and Christmas gifts while you’re at it (it’s good to “multitask”).