"I don’t know about you, but it feels like I can’t keep up with the cost of living no matter how hard I try. Everything has an exorbitant price tag, and it feels like simply stepping outside my front door costs money these days. Especially as we head into summer (one of the busiest and most expensive times of the year), I’m starting to worry that my bank account won’t make it out alive.
But alas, I’m still resolved to have a fun, memorable summer. So, I rounded up a bunch of low-spend summer activities to help you make the most of the season while keeping your finances in check. Here are 20 summer activities to try if you want to cut back on summer spending without missing out on the fun.
1. Go on an ice cream walk
Is there anything better than walking around with an ice cream cone in hand on a summer evening? I don’t think so. The next time you want to romanticize a weeknight—whether you’re with a friend, your partner, or just yourself—grab a scoop at your favorite ice cream shop and take a walk while you enjoy your sweet treat. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and costs less than dinner and drinks.
2. Stroll through your local farmers market
Going to the farmers markets doubles as a leisurely summer activity and grocery shopping—a win-win! Fill up your tote bag with locally produced goodies and fresh flowers while sipping on an iced coffee, or grab lunch from one of the food trucks with a friend. There’s truly no better way to spend a weekend morning.
3. Host a pizza-making party
If you want to throw an affordable but memorable get-together this summer, try hosting a pizza-making party. Instead of putting together an elaborate (and expensive) dinner party menu, keep things simple with a DIY pizza station. To keep costs down, grab the basics like tomato sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, and ask your guests to bring their own dough or pre-made crust and preferred toppings. It’s a fun way to feed a crowd and spend a fun summer evening with friends.
4. Go mini golfing
Mini golfing is one of the most underrated summer activities out there. It’s nostalgic, budget-friendly, and great for getting outside to enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Head over to a local spot and play a round the next time you need a cute summer date idea or a fun group activity to do with friends.
5. Have a picnic in the park
Rolling out a blanket for a picnic in the park is one of those simple summer activities that never gets old. Pack some classic picnic foods like sandwiches and pasta salad, or fill a cooler bag with your favorite girl dinner staples to snack on. It’s a great way to get outdoors, whether you’re with friends or solo. If you’re treating yourself, pack a good book to read while you indulge.
6. Go to a local festival
In my humble opinion, local festivals are one of the best parts of summer. These events are always teeming with life and culture, and I love listening to the music, shopping at the street vendors, playing games, and trying new food at each one. The real cherry on top, though, is that they’re often free to attend, so you can enjoy without spending a dime or set aside money for games or treats.
7. Organize a field day
Nothing topped the joy of having a field day at school as a kid, and this classic summer activity is one you can easily recreate as an adult. Gather some friends or family in your backyard or at a park, and plan a slate of activities like three-legged races, cornhole, and ring toss. It’s the perfect way to soak up the sunshine and engage in some friendly competition.
8. Recreate a paint and sip class at home
Paint and sip classes are a fun way to tap into your creative side, but they can be fairly pricey to do at an actual art studio. Luckily, it’s easy enough to recreate the experience at home. Gather some basic art supplies and have everyone come with a canvas and their favorite bottle to share. Find a painting tutorial on YouTube for everyone to follow along with, or just enjoy each other’s company while you create your own masterpieces.
9. Organize weekly game nights
If you love socializing and friendly competition, weekly game nights deserve a spot on your schedule this summer. Gather some friends to play cards, board games, chess, conversation starter games, or even video games. To keep things fresh and exciting, rotate your games and where you play each week, and have everyone bring snacky foods and beverages to accompany the evening’s festivities.
10. Take advantage of discounted restaurant offerings
Life is all about balance, so instead of resigning yourself to never dining out, take advantage of discounted restaurant offerings. Look into happy hour deals and weekly specials at your favorite spots, and plan your outings around those discounts. Taking advantage of these offerings means you can still treat yourself to patio cocktails and dinners out without overspending.
11. Visit a state or national park
Spending time in nature doesn’t have to cost a thing (besides maybe a few dollars for a park entrance fee). Drive out to your nearest state or national park for the ultimate hot girl walk with some seriously scenic views. Take it easy with a beginner-friendly trail, or get your sweat on with a more challenging route.
12. Check out a local spot with live music
There’s nothing like seeing your favorite artist live, but concert tickets don’t come cheap. To get your live music fix elsewhere, make it a goal to check out a bar, brewery, or restaurant with a live band at least once this summer. Some cities even host outdoor concerts you can attend for free. It may not be the Cowboy Carter tour, but you can still enjoy some great entertainment at no cost to you.
13. See a movie at the drive-in
Going to the movies is notoriously expensive, and who wants to be cooped up in a dark theater on a beautiful summer day anyway? Instead, find a drive-in theater near you and cozy up to watch a movie from the comfort of your car. It’s one of those quintessential summer activities that will make you feel like you’re starring in your own rom-com. Plus, it’s also cost-effective since you’re typically charged per car rather than per person, and you can bring your own snacks and drinks.
14. Invite friends over for an at-home happy hour
For many of us, going out for $20 cocktails is definitely not in the budget this summer, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo your favorite martini. Gather the necessary ingredients and learn to make your go-to drink at home. Mixology is a fabulous skill to have in your back pocket when you’re trying to save money; you don’t have to meet your besties for drinks when you can whip up a tasty beverage for everyone at home.
15. Make friendship bracelets
Making friendship bracelets is peak girlhood. It’s one of those perfectly nostalgic summer activities that doesn’t have to cost more than a few dollars. Head to the craft store to buy some embroidery floss or some stretchy cord and beads, then get creative crafting bracelets for yourself or loved ones. The results will be both a fun accessory and a keepsake that represents your relationships with those closest to you.
16. Whip up a new recipe and dine al fresco
Anyone who lives in an area that experiences all four seasons knows just how precious the summer weather is, and it’s important to capitalize on every moment. If you’re home on a gorgeous summer day, whip up a new recipe with fresh, summery ingredients like tomatoes or zucchini and take it out to your patio or balcony to dine al fresco. You’ll get to enjoy a lovely meal and the weather without paying a premium at a restaurant with patio seating.
17. Visit a local winery
If traveling to the Tuscan countryside isn’t part of your summer plans, visiting a local winery is the next best thing. Smaller vineyards tend to be more affordable, and many offer tours and tastings for a low price. If you do your research ahead of time, you may even be able to plan your visit around certain promotions or events with discounted rates.
18. Read at a local coffee shop
If you need a solo date idea this summer, head to your favorite coffee shop for a beverage or snack and enjoy it outdoors while reading a good book. This will get you out of the house, provide a nice change of scenery, and offer plenty of people-watching opportunities.
19. Host a potluck brunch
Instead of paying an arm and a leg for bottomless mimosas at a trendy brunch spot, host a potluck brunch yourself. Coordinate with your group ahead of time on what everyone is bringing to avoid duplicates, and hit the Trader Joe’s wine aisle for some affordable bottles of sparkling wine. Set out an assortment of juices for a mimosa bar, and you’ll be golden.
20. Try embroidery
Unwinding from the chaos of summer isn’t always easy, but trying your hand at embroidery can help you decompress. The beauty of this hobby is that it’s inexpensive (you can find beginner kits on Amazon and Etsy for under $20) and can be performed anywhere, like on your deck after a stressful day at work or while you’re cooling off in the AC on a hot summer day.
Arianna Reardon, Contributing Writer
Arianna is a freelance writer and journalist, and the self-proclaimed hot and dirty martini queen. At The Everygirl, Arianna uses her authenticity and relatability to empower, inspire, and motivate women everywhere. Whether she’s writing about sex and relationships, career and finance, beauty and fashion, wellness, or home and living, Arianna’s passion shines through in all her work.