20 of the best low or no-cost summer activities

Not everyone has a pool in their backyard, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the pleasures of H2O. Waterparks can put a hole in anyone’s wallet, especially families. For those wanting the most cost-effective option, community pools are a great way to beat the heat without wasting an entire week’s pay. Also, community pools have affordable snack bars or allow patrons to bring in snacks.

Many cities hold concert series in the summer. Check the city website to see if one is happening locally.

Community centers often have classes that range from athletics to things more crafty, like pottery, for a reasonable price.

Places like dollar stores have all one needs to start their own vegetable or flower garden.

Don’t just walk the dog, allow the dog to lead for one afternoon and see where the four-legged bestie takes you.

Summer is peak festival time. Art, music, and even pickles have a festival during the summer months. All one has to do is check out their city calendar to see what’s coming to their area.

Whether it’s a book you already own or one from the local library, reading is always a quick and easy option that costs absolutely nothing.

Get the gang together and have a classic board game night.

Grab a helmet and get out there!

It’s always nice to browse around a farmer’s market and discover what local vendors have to offer.

Whether you pick up a manual or watch a YouTube tutorial, all ways of learning a new skill to use around the house are valid.

Notice some trash around the neighborhood? Grab some gloves and a trash bag and make where you call home a little cleaner.

Walking mall laps aren’t just for senior citizens. Get in on the fun of checking out the mall on a nice morning walk before it gets busy.

With enough people, perhaps even starting a bowling league to get more people in on the fun and out of the house would be awesome.

Don’t order in…again. Instead, find a dish online that sounds delicious and try to make it from scratch as best as you can.

Bubbles cost as little as one dollar for a giant tube, and who doesn’t love the magic of bubbles?

Mother Nature is always free to enjoy.

Some theaters have special summer deals for adults, while a decent amount have great deals to save on tickets for little ones.

Jetsetting off to a new place isn’t in everyone's cards (or bank account), but setting up a little spa for oneself, getting all the best movies lined up, and being in the comfort of home can be the best vacation ever.

Cleaning may sound like the last thing anyone wants to spend the day doing, but decluttering one’s space can be fun. It’s a chance to reconfigure one’s space and even rediscover stuff that might’ve been tucked away.