No-Cost and Low-Cost Summer Activities

It can be easy to find yourself bored in the summer. According to a 2022 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics survey, Americans spend nearly $300 a month on entertainment-related purchases. Although occupying yourself may come with a price tag, there are several no-spend and low-spend activities you can pursue this summer. Below is a list of entertainment options. 

Hiking

What better way to enjoy the nice, summer weather than by taking a hike? There are lots of hiking trails out there, each suited for different fitness levels. A great way to find hiking trails near you is by using AllTrails, a trail-finding website. For many trails, hiking is free, although some parks may charge an admission or parking fee. If hiking in the woods or on a mountain isn’t your style, try walking in a city park!

Biking

If you own a bicycle, it's free entertainment (and exercise). If you like the outdoors, your bicycle riding options are limitless! You can take a leisurely ride through your neighborhood, an off-road trek on a biking path, or an exhilarating cruise down a mountain peak. Just be sure to wear a helmet! If you’re not a fan of riding bicycles, consider rollerblading or skateboarding.

Camping

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’re no stranger to camping. Camping is a fun and cheap way to get in touch with nature. While most campgrounds charge minimal fees per night, some don’t charge anything! Many spots under Bureau of Land Management jurisdiction offer free dispersed camping, or camping without amenities. Freecampsites.net is also a good place to scout free camping spots. 

Beach day

The beach is an excellent way of catching surf and sun at a low cost. Many beaches are free, although some may charge for parking or are part of a park that requires an entry fee. Depending on where you go, some beaches allow space to spread out, giving you a more secluded experience. If swimming at the beach doesn’t strike your fancy, try swimming at a public pool!

Geocaching

Geocaching is similar to a treasure hunt. Participants use cellular devices or GPSs to hide and seek containers, which have a log you can sign. There are over 3 million geocaches in the world, all different sizes, shapes, and levels of difficulty. There might be a geocache hidden within a stone’s throw of you! To become a geocacher, all you have to do is sign up for an account on the Geocaching website or the app. 

Disc Golf

You may have heard of miniature golf, but have you ever heard of disc golf? Disc golf follows similar rules to traditional golf, except instead of hitting a ball with a club into a hole, you throw a frisbee disc into a basket. There are more than 15,000 disc golf courses worldwide, with 9 to 18 baskets each. Disc golf is also free to play at most parks! All you need are a few cheap discs, which can be found at most sports stores. 

Picnic

Picnics are a fun alternative to going out to eat. You can have a picnic just about anywhere outdoors - under a shady tree, in a city park, even on a beach! Just be sure to bring a blanket and basket to keep the bugs off your food. The only cost associated with picnics is the food you bring!

Movie Marathon

If it's rainy or dark outside, try hosting a movie night or movie marathon at your house! Your movie-watching options are limitless - you can invite friends over for a potluck or keep it strictly to members of your household for much-needed family time. The best part is there are millions of movies to choose from, which always keeps it fresh. Plus, movie nights and marathons are not strictly tied to summer. 

Reading

Like watching movies, reading books is another great way to pass the time year-round. Plus, reading can expand your knowledge and vocabulary. If you don’t feel like spending money on a new book, try visiting your local library. Signing up for a library card is almost always free, and most libraries allow you to check out more than just books. Library borrowing options may include movies, board games, outdoor equipment, and more. Some libraries even offer free passes to museums and parks!

Board games

Nothing says fun like a friendly competition. Board games are not only entertaining, they allow you to bond with others. There are thousands of board game options out there, from kid-friendly learning games to adult-only card games. An exciting way to pass the time at no cost is by hosting a board game night. Much like any indoor activity, playing a board game can be done any time of the year. If board games aren’t your speed, try playing a new video game!

Volunteering

Volunteering is undoubtedly one of the most proactive ways to cure boredom. You’ll not only meet new people, you’ll be helping others. Studies have shown that volunteering can improve your happiness and give you immense satisfaction. Plus, it's great for the community. 

No matter your summer plans, boredom shouldn't be one of them. Whether you’re trying to beat the heat or embrace the outdoors, there’s a summer activity for everyone. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Hunter Morrison

About Hunter Morrison

Hunter has freelanced for various print and radio publications across Northwest Florida, including The Bay Beacon, Navarre Press, Inweekly, Crestview News Bulletin, and WUWF. He was also the Editor in Chief of the University of West Florida’s student newspaper, The Voyager. In 2023, Hunter moved to Kenai, Alaska to take up a news reporting position with KDLL Public Radio. For fun, Hunter enjoys cross-country skiing, hiking, photography, thrifting, traveling, and looking for the best Thai food around.