15 budget-friendly ways to have fun this summer

If you’re craving a summer jam-packed with exciting adventures and memory-making activities, you aren’t alone. Luckily, you don’t have to choose between summer fun and a season of saving. Check out our money-smart ways to have the best summer ever that won’t break the bank.

Skip summer blockbusters and expensive amusement parks, and look for local, affordable options instead.

Keep an eye on event calendars for any free entry days at museums, zoos and botanical gardens, as well as local parades and art fairs. Summer is a great time to get out in your community and meet your neighbors.

The best part about summer is getting outside and enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. Taking advantage of all mother nature has to offer throughout the season is often inexpensive, if not completely free. Consider these fun ideas for relishing the great outdoors this summer.

All you need is a small projector, a Bluetooth speaker and a plain white sheet (or a screen) to project your movie on. Then, grab the blankets and sleeping bags, plenty of popcorn and bug spray and settle in. (String lights optional but highly recommended.)

The simple pleasure of a picnic is fun for the whole family. Bring a Frisbee or enjoy your feast near water for an afternoon dip. Bonus points: Plan a BYOB, potluck-style picnic brunch with a group of friends.

Whether it’s flowers, succulents or tomatoes, summer is the perfect time to work on your gardening skills — and you don’t need a yard (or sunny window) to do it. Community gardens are a great way to meet others in your area and grow your own produce or share it with others.

Croquet, horseshoes, relay races, badminton, kickball and more — the options are endless. Gather neighborhood friends and family for some light-hearted competition and cap off the event with a potluck or BBQ.

Skip the gym and get endorphins going outside. Try excursions like hikes or kayaking trips. Paddleboarding is a fun and tough workout that beats the elliptical any day.

Maybe it’s the neighborhood swimming pool, a nearby lake or the ocean — jumping in the water on a hot day is a summer staple. Bring some blow-up floats, plenty of sunscreen and keep cool with a day by the water.

Summer fun can also be good for your mind, body and spirit. Enter autumn a new and improved you with these activities focused on health and wellness.

Scan your city to find adult sports leagues for soccer, beach volleyball, softball and more. Or join a jogging club or outdoor yoga class. Whether you go with a group of friends or sign-up solo, it’s a great way to expand your circle in a not too competitive environment.

Fresh produce, beautiful flowers, artisan goods … a farmers market is an ideal place to mosey around on a weekend morning. Go with a friend and plan to make a fresh and delicious lunch together afterwards using only farmers market finds. Or pick up a locally grown bouquet to bring to someone you haven’t seen in a while.

No crowded races required. Just search “bike trails near me” and you’ll be sure to find plenty of nearby options. Then, pick a scenic route, grab a helmet and water bottle and cross 13.1 miles off your list.

You don’t have to spend a lot to have an adventurous summer. These creative ideas are anything from boring.

Sometimes, getting away for just one day is the best way to add some adventure into your life — especially when it’s spontaneous. Get up early on a Saturday morning, pack some snacks and hit the road to a neighboring town, park or venue.

This is a super fun way to make memories with your kids, nieces and nephews or your friends. Give everyone a few categories of items to collect, seal them up in a box and find somewhere safe to bury or hide it for the next few years. (Just don’t forget where it is.)

All you need is cream, condensed milk and toppings of your choice! It’s that easy to prepare this sweet summer treat.

A summer storm doesn’t mean the fun needs to be put on hold with the kiddos. Enjoy the great indoors with fun at-home activities like our Planet Zeee and the Money Tree book and interactive financial education games or video games. Or, if your kiddos are itching to get out of the house, visit your local library where they can pick titles that offer the ultimate escape.

Saving money during the summer months doesn’t mean you’re doomed to days of boredom. Use the features and tools in Ally Bank’s Savings Account to set aside funds for “summer fun,” and, armed with our bingo card of ideas, you’ll find some of the best ways to make the most of these long, hot days.