Cheap or Free Stuff to Do this Summer

So my quest began to do something cheap or free this summer.  I checked out a list of family oriented activities and thought it might be helpful to share.  I hope this information inspires you to live a little this season--beautiful days don't last long, so make the most of them! Children and grandchildren cooped up in a house (no matter the size) can wear on your nerves.  Get them out and about!

Photo by Michał Parzuchowski on Unsplash

1) Check out local parks.  Some will have select days that they host community events.  Have a picnic or a mini family reunion or simply exercise or play games with the children at one.
2) Outdoor concerts bring out the dancer in you!
3) Select fresh vegetables and fruits at the Farmer's markets.
4) Flea markets or swap meets host cheap sometimes rare goods.
5) Local (smaller) amusement parks.  Typically not as expensive as the larger parks.
6) Stop by a bowling alley and check out summer specials.
7) Find out what are the free museum days (children, local government, natural history, etc.)
8) Visit local libraries. There are classes, summer reading contests, and story times for children.
9) Visit churches.  When is the last time you confessed your sins or asked for prayer?
10) Tour your city's botanical gardens.
11) Find out what days the zoo is free.
12) Art walks and galleries inspire you and your family's creative side.
13) Search for wine, beer and food tastings at local grocery stores. (You can leave the kids w/ someone for this :)
14) Call to find out when stores like Home Depot and businesses and schools are hosting free workshops.
15) Look for free factory tours that show consumers how their products are made.
16) Skate parks or roller skating facilities.
17) Fishing, camping and hunting classes, competitions, etc.
18) Check out local sporting events or sign up for one.  There are adult and children leagues at recreational centers.
19) Outdoor adventure presentations.
20) Hiking trails.
21) Free lectures--choose your industry/interest.  They are sometimes held on site or at hotel conference centers.
22) Health and cooking demonstrations.
23) Historic lectures and walking tours.

Start searching your city and state and enjoy!

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How To Stop Eating When Bored (My Experience and Solutions)

Bored? What Else is There to Do on the Internet? - Tutoring, Teaching, Internet Tips

5 Things to Avoid When Already Feeling Bored

As much as we love our luxury items like that comfy chair or electronic device that has everything under the sun on it, these are also the things that at times keep us in a bored state of mind too.

The comforts of home keep the body in a relaxed state, but sometimes the mind fights for change.  “When are we going to do something different?”  One is moody, tired, and wanting to change routine, but doesn’t.  Why?  From a daily routine that is not easily broken to running away from responsibilities, people bore themselves to tears simply using what they love way too much only to look for yet another thing and another to entertain them!  It is a vicious cycle that even the body begins to rebel against.

1) Television

It doesn’t matter what you watch, you find yourself flipping through channels mindlessly.  It is easier just to sit back and enjoy the show; rather than prepare yourself to go out into the world and have a real life experience.  Television shows lull you into a trance and make you feel like you can’t go anywhere even when you should.  Like a hypnotist controlling his or her willing subject, so too are you who is allowing a man-made device to control your thoughts and movements for many hours.  It isn’t any wonder why most people don’t get much done on their off days?  They also experience weight gain and what is sure to follow is the following: achy joints, back pain, poor vision, memory issues, frequent head aches and more!

2) Recliner

Absolutely a wonderful invention wouldn’t you agree?  But it also becomes a problem when you don’t do much else, but sit day after day, week after week.  You feel comfortable and at ease for a time.  Yet, your body wants to be active and will fight you for not doing what it wants.  Can we say a future with increase sickness awaits you?

3) Gaming

Like television, gaming entertainment is a great escape when you don’t want to face reality, but consider how much time you have already put in.  Wins and losses can be overwhelming.  The games just aren’t as fun as they used to be.  If you are not only bored with some games, but in a sour mood too, just stop!  But if you can’t, you are an addict.

4) Computer

No one can talk to you when in front of the computer.  No one is permitted to enter when your on the computer.  No matter what you do on the computer, it is never enough!  Computer usage becomes boring, when one has no plan for its use and no cut off time either!

5) Phone

Whether you are talking, swiping, scrolling, typing, or whatever you do, this too can be draining and especially boring when you do the same thing for hours everyday.  Give that phone a break!  Chances are someone who needs to talk to you is being given little or no attention.  Don’t be surprised when they deem you boring and move on.

The key to ending those negative feelings surrounding boredom is to make a point not to continue to participate in activities that tire and bore you.  Take time away from each device by getting outdoors, visiting relatives and friends, attending a special event, or having fun anywhere but in front of an electronic device.  Take frequent breaks and rotate your entertainment as well as limit the amount of time that you use it.    

Nicholl McGuire is the creator of this blog and author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? and other books.