Finding affordable summer fun

Posted by admin June 16, 2008 at 5:25 pm

Summertime, but the living isn’t all that easy, if you’re trying to find summer activities that won’t break the bank.

But fear not, Louise Sacco, co-host of The Frugal Yankee has some ideas that could keep the fun affordable.

Here are some of Louise’s suggestions:

1. Take a hike - check out local state parks; pick up a guide book to your area. Take your camera, some lunch, and insect repellant. You don’t have to be in the wilderness to enjoy a hike. You can plot your route through cities or towns that you’ve been meaning to explore. This can be geared for any age and any level of fitness.

2. Become a tourist - right where you are. Check your state or region’s tourism website. I’ll bet you haven’t seen all the sights they recommend for visitors. Have you taken the Duck Tour? visited the Harbor Islands? You may discover a museum or historic site right in your home town. I’ve just learned about the Black History Trail in Boston - I plan to walk that one soon.

If you’re expecting out-of-town visitors this summer, do the tourist bit with them.

3. Can’t afford a Red Sox game? Even if you can, chances are you can’t get tickets. You probably know about the Paw Sox - it’s a lot of fun. But did you know there are minor league games in New Britain & Norwich CT, Lowell MA, Manchester NH, Burlington VT? And, of course, the Cape Cod League. This is a especially good for younger kids who would be exhausted with a long drive and a long game. For really little kids - the 3-5 year olds, take them to a local Little League or Babe Ruth game. They’ll see some baseball, you can tell them a bit about the game and leave when they get restless.

4. Read the local newspaper. The churches, schools, civic organizations, and local towns can keep you busy. You’ll meet your neighbors and have a good time at a church supper, concert on the green, library book sale, fair, farmers’ market, or parade. You might volunteer to help out.

5. Go fishing. There may be a fishing pole in your basement. If not, get a pole and a fishing license - and check out the rules and regs in your state. This outing can include some hiking, a picnic lunch, and a chance for quiet talk. You don’t have to clean and eat the fish. Take a photo and throw it back.

6. State Parks. There’s probably a state park near you. Get hold of their schedule of events. Many of them organize guided walks. You’ll learn a lot about the plants and animals in your area and enjoy a leisurely walk. They may also have talks, workshops, and kids events.