No Spend Ideas for an Unforgettable Summer

Summer fun can get expensive. But as we know, in Minnesota, we need to make the most of the warm weather while it lasts!

So I've put together a big list of some no spend ideas to still have some fun this summer while staying on a budget.

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No Spend Summer Fun Ideas

Beach Day

A classic summer activity that's totally free!

Have a Bonfire

Plus marshmallows are cheap if you want to roast marshmallows.

Check Out the Farmers Market

No need to buy anything! Just browse the many vendors.

Play Lawn Games

If you already have a lawn game or two, like bags, bocce ball, frisbee, etc, you've got free fun.

Hike a Local Trail

Go to a trail you love or one you've never explored before.

Host a Potluck

Invite people over have them bring something to share.

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Go Stargazing

Drive someone with low light pollution to do some stargazing. I think there are free apps out there that will tell you what constellations you're looking at, too.

Learn Origami

This is a good one on a rainy summer day. Grab paper laying around the house and find a video on YouTube to teach you.

Try Bird Watching

Head outside with an app like the Merlin app (which is free). It'll listen for bird calls and tell you what birds are around you.

Play in the Sprinkler

Everyone has a sprinkler at home. Have the kids throw on a swimsuit, turn on the sprinkler, and have a great time!

Take a Bike Ride

Grab your bikes and hit up a trail or bike path.

Do Arts and Crafts

Most families have arts and craft supplies lying around, so gather what's around the house and make something new.

Press and Dry Flowers

Go pick some flowers from your garden and learn how to press and dry them.

Build a Fort

Another good one for a rainy day. Or you could try building a fort outside!

Have a Picnic

Even if it's your usual lunch, packing it up and taking it to a park or even your backyard makes it more exciting.

Explore the Library

Maybe check out a section you usually don't browse.

Grab a Book and Read Outside

Whether you've found something new at the library or you have a book at home that you haven't read, grab it and go read outside.

Volunteer

Find a non-profit that speaks to you and go volunteer.

Attend a Free Concert

There are tons of these, so take your pick!

Organize a Scavenger Hunt

Find some items from around the house, maybe the kids have trophies from sports, and hide them in different places. Then come up with clues to lead them on a scavenger hunt.