Looking to fill your kids’ summer days without breaking the bank? We’ve rounded up a list of fun and FREE programs to do with your kids this summer.
When summer vacation rolls around, I transition from being a teacher to being a stay at home mom. As much as I’d like to just rest and recharge everyday, my kids have other plans. Like clockwork, the first thing my kids say to me each day of break is “what are we going to do today?” Apparently they think that my summer job description also includes activities director. I actually love spending time with my kids and we do use summer as a way to do more things together. Since its summer we like to spend a lot of time outdoors either playing in the backyard, having water fun or going for a bike ride. We also live close to the beach and use our pass as much as possible. A couple of times a week, we go on an adventure outside of the house.
We like to keep our weekly adventures as budget-friendly as possible. Some of our outings include:
- library
- movies
- food adventure
- farmer’s market
- day trip to the city
- aquarium
- zoo
Even though we try to keep our excursions cheap and fun, the cost to get out of the house, even just a few times a week, the whole summer, can add up fast. Thankfully, free fun can be had! There are several programs running all summer long that are completely free.
10 Free Summer Programs for Kids
To help make it easier and more affordable to say yes to family adventures this summer, we’ve rounded up some of the best, free summer programs for kids. Registration for some of these programs is required and may not be available in all areas. Click on the links to get more information about each program.
10 Free Summer Programs for Kids
Have a fun summer with kids without breaking the bank with these free programs.
2019 Summer Kids Series
See a free movie at participating Bow Tie Cinemas on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from June 25th - August 21st.
KidsBowlFree.com: Kids Bowl Free All Summer Long!
Registered kids received 2 games per day for the whole summer.
Every Kid in a Park
Every Kid in a Park Pass lets kids in 4th grade (as of September 1st) explore National Parks across the country for free. Passes are valid for 1 year.
Celebrate Summer Reading with Barnes & Noble!
Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program gives kids the opportunity to earn a free book when they read 8 books and complete a journal.
Kids & DIY Workshops at Home Depot
Home Depot offers free building workshops for kids on select days. Check with your local store to see which workshops are offered.
Weekly Story Time at Pottery Barn Kids
Join Pottery Barn Kids for a weekly story time, activities and more on Tuesdays at 11 am (Saturdays at 10 in NYC)
Museums on Us from Bank of America
Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, U.S. Credit cardholders get free access to select museums and cultural institutions on the first full weekend of every month.
Kids Skate Free
KidsSkateFree program lets kids 12 and younger receive free passes for roller skating at select locations across the country.
Enjoy free family summer activities at Bass Pro Shops Family Summer Camp
Bass Pro Shops Family Summer Camp features free fun and games for kids, activities, and workshops. Families can learn skills they need for their next outdoor adventure.
Try Geocaching!
Get in on the world's largest treasure hunt. Download the free geocaching app and get ready to begin your adventure.
For More Summer Fun: