Summer is here, which means it is finally time for summer vacations! If you are an avid traveler, you have likely been planning your dream summer vacation since the first day of fall. Whether you are hoping to explore the Pacific Northwest, enjoy a California getaway, or relax in the Midwest, there’s one thing for sure – trips can get expensive.
After just minutes of adding up the expenses of a trip, the price tag can quickly turn your “book now” mindset into a “let’s just wait until next year” attitude.
Lucky for you, trips don’t have to be expensive! There are lots of fun ways to enjoy your days on vacation, without the additional spending. If this sounds like music to your ears, keep on reading for fun things you can do on vacation that don’t require spending money.
1. Hit the Trails and Take a Hike
Hiking is such a great free activity for vacationers of any age to enjoy. June is actually ‘National Great Outdoors Month’, which gives you even more reason to hit the trails and enjoy some fresh air. Vacation spots such as the Natchez Trace Tiny House Village and Mt. Hood Village Campground have great hiking trails just minutes away – making it as easy and convenient as ever!
Photo: Natchez Trace Campground | Hohenwald, TN
2. Check out Local Events
No matter where you travel to, there are bound to be various local events to explore. Whether it’s listening to a free live music concert, exploring a local farmers’ market, or volunteering at a nearby park or non-profit, there are tons of free, local activities available. If you’re looking for a fun farmers’ market, Chestnut Lake Campground in Port Republic, NJ is less than half a mile from the Honey & Sweets Farmer’s Market!
3. Relax & Unwind
With busy schedules, it’s rare that we all get a little “me time” to relax and unwind. Whether you love to read, meditate, or listen to music, vacation is the perfect time for relaxation. Looking for recommendations? Some of the best places for R&R are Fiesta Key RV Resort located in Long Key, FL and Encore Tropical Palms Resort located in Kissimmee, FL. Enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine while you rest and recharge poolside or on the porch of your quaint cottage rental.
Photo: Fiesta Key RV Resort in Long Key, FL
4. Explore the Area
Exploring the area you are traveling to is a must! Whether you choose to visit a local garden or park, find a self-guided tour, or even just walk around and observe your surroundings, exploring what the area has to offer is a great way to vacation. Who knows, the place you’re visiting might be a unique haunted ghost town like Drummer Boy in Gettysburg, PA! The resort is located on the site of a Civil War battleground and guests have reported numerous ghost sightings. Employees in the office say they have a resident ghost named George who periodically rattles cabinets and flickers lights.
5. Play a Game
No matter where you are traveling, you are sure to find space (or even sports courts!) to enjoy a good game. Whether it’s a simple game of cards or a mini pickleball tournament, playing games is the perfect way to enjoy your time on vacation and spend quality time with the people you’re with. Places such as Lake George Escape, Tranquility Lakes, and Soledad Canyon have beautiful sports courts available for their guests to enjoy at no additional cost!
Photo: Tranquility Lakes in Cape Coral, FL
Which of these free things will you do on your next vacation?
