We all need to get out and do something different every now and then. Whether it’s summer vacation or just a weekend adventure, a break from the norm does us worlds of good. But it can also be very expensive. The most popular entertainment destinations usually come with a hefty price tag. Admission to amusement parks and zoos, accommodations, and travel expenses can add up in a hurry, especially when you take the kids along. Even less expensive pursuits can cost us more than we realize over time. But with a little imagination, we can find free alternatives to these activities. Here are a few examples.
The Zoo
Kids love going to the zoo. It’s not often that they get to see all those exotic animals up close. But it takes a lot of money to take care of those animals, and the expenses are certainly reflected in the ticket prices. Fortunately, there are ways to get your animal fix for free.
One way is to visit the pet shop. It doesn’t cost anything to look, and most have some rather unusual creatures. Kids can see the animals up close, and can even pet some of them. The biggest drawback is that they may want to take one (or more) home. Instead of shelling out the money on the spot, keep it in mind for a birthday or holiday gift.
If you’re lucky, there may be a zoo in your area that offers free admission. Some large zoos operate with money received from memberships and donations. Smaller petting zoos that are associated with other businesses may also let you in for free. Check a local visitor’s guide or search online to see if there are any free zoos in your area.
Amusement Parks
Amusement parks are among the most popular vacation destinations for children, and they have plenty to offer for adults as well. But ticket prices are often prohibitive, especially for large families. If you’re on a budget, a trip to a local park is a less expensive option.
City parks usually have lots of playground equipment for kids to choose from. You won’t find wild roller coasters there, but you won’t have to worry about long lines or motion sickness, either. Packing a picnic lunch and making a day of it will keep the children happy without a lot of expense.
Nature parks are a good option for the whole family. Some have lakes or rivers that kids can play in, and most have hiking trails. And there are picnic areas where you can stop to eat.
The Bookstore
If you love to read, a trip to the bookstore can get very expensive. It doesn’t cost anything to browse, but avid readers have a hard time resisting that new release from a favorite author. Going to the library eliminates the temptation factor, and if you see a book you like, you can borrow it for free.
Libraries also keep magazines and newspapers. So if you’re interested in something that’s in the latest edition but don’t want to spend the money to buy the whole thing, stop by the library. You can read it there without spending a dime.
Having fun can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Free activities give us the opportunity to do something different without putting a strain on the budget.
