Splurge on Low-Cost Summer Fun

Many wonderful summer memories can cost you little or nothing at all. So don’t let a fixed budget turn you into a fixture around the house. Get out and enjoy the not-so-lazy days of summer.

Often, free or low-cost summertime activities are waiting right around the corner—literally. Check your newspaper or the local Chamber of Commerce Web site for free cultural events. Many communities sponsor street fairs or outdoor concerts, movies and plays.

Some other ideas for enjoying your community on the cheap include:

• Be a regular at your local farmers’ market.
• Explore neighborhood shops. Art galleries often are open to the public, and craft stores may offer demonstrations.
• Check to see if local museums have “free” or discounted days.
• Take a walking tour of city landmarks or hike to a scenic overlook. Try to see familiar sights through fresh eyes.

Act like a kid

• Take a cue from the children in your life and add some inexpensive fun to your daily routine. Grab a friend and play catch or kickball. Sound crazy? The moderateintensity activity helps improve your cardiovascular fitness. Meanwhile, the sheer joy of play helps keep you young at heart.
• Hike to the nearest park and bring a book of puzzles and games. Test your skill at Sudoku, the popular number grid game. Ask a friend to join you each week to play cards or a board game, such as chess.
• Visit your public swimming pool, bike path or basketball or tennis court a few days a week. An exercise buddy doubles the fun and helps you stay motivated.