Summer is the perfect time to soak up the sunshine and embark on exciting adventures without breaking the bank. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an urban explorer, or a thrill-seeker, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities to enjoy during the sunny season. From outdoor excursions to cultural experiences, here are 15 ideas to help you make the most of your summer without emptying your wallet.

  1. Picnic in the Park:

Pack a homemade lunch and head to your local park for a budget-friendly picnic in the great outdoors. Enjoying a meal surrounded by nature is a simple yet delightful way to spend a sunny summer day with family and friends. Check out these top things to pack for a picnic: Picnic Food Ideas and How to Pack for a Picnic (thescramble.com)

  1. Hiking Trails Exploration 

Explore nearby hiking trails and nature reserves for an affordable outdoor adventure. Hiking is not only a great way to stay active but also allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of your surroundings without spending a dime. Here are a few of the best places to go hiking in Iowa: 9 Iowa Hiking Trails | Travel Iowa

  1. Beach Day at the Lake 

Spend a day at the lake soaking up the sun, swimming in the water, and building sandcastles with the family. Many lakeside areas offer free or affordable access, making it a perfect budget-friendly option. Take a look at these 11 Iowa beaches to cross off your bucket list: These Iowa beaches and lakes are perfect for swimming, relaxing (desmoinesregister.com)

  1. Outdoor Movie Nights 

Check local listings for free outdoor movie screenings in your area. Grab a blanket and some popcorn and enjoy a movie under the stars with friends and loved ones. Find outdoor movie events near you today: Travel Iowa: Tourism Map, Travel Guide, Things to Do, Iowa State Parks

  1. Farmers' Market Explorations 

Explore your local farmers' market to sample fresh produce and delicious treats. Farmers' markets offer a vibrant atmosphere and are a great place to support local vendors while staying within your budget. Here are some local farmers’ markets to check out:

  1. DIY Water Fun 

Cool off on hot summer days with DIY water fun in your backyard. Set up a sprinkler, fill up water balloons, or create your own homemade slip 'n slide for hours of entertainment without spending a lot of money. Here are some tips on how to make your own slip ‘n slide: How to Make Your Own Slip 'n Slide - Kroger

  1. Festivals and Events 

Keep an eye out for free festivals and events happening in your area during the summer months. From music festivals to street fairs, these events offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and entertainment without breaking the bank. Here are some fun and varied festivals across the Midwest: Festivals (midwestweekends.com)

  1. Bike Rides 

Take a leisurely bike ride around your neighborhood or explore nearby bike trails for a budget-friendly way to stay active and enjoy the summer scenery. Need a bike and not sure how to pick the right one? Check out this helpful guide: How to Choose a Bike: Picking the Perfect New Bike for You (specialized.com)

  1. Outdoor Yoga or Fitness Classes 

Many parks and community centers offer free or donation-based outdoor yoga and fitness classes during the summer months. Joining a class is a great way to stay fit while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Browse this A-Z guide of fitness classes to figure out what’s best for your needs and interests: Fitness Class A-Z (realbuzz.com)

  1. DIY Camping 

Plan a budget-friendly camping trip with friends or family at a nearby campground. Bring your own tents and camping gear and spend the night under the stars roasting marshmallows and sharing stories around the campfire. Find the right campground in Iowa for your family here: Campgrounds and Camping Reservations - Iowa State Parks (reserveamerica.com)

  1. Visit Local Museums or Art Galleries on Free Admission Days 

Many museums and art galleries offer free admission days or discounted rates during the summer months. Take advantage of these opportunities to explore cultural attractions and expand your horizons without spending a lot of money. Wondering which museums are considered the best in the U.S.? Find out here: 27 Best Museums in the U.S. (travelandleisure.com)

  1. Geocaching 

Go on a treasure hunt with geocaching, a free outdoor activity that combines navigation skills with adventure. Download the geocaching app, search for hidden caches in your area, and embark on a scavenger hunt to find hidden treasures. Start by looking at this guide on geocaching: How to Get Started Geocaching | REI Expert Advice

  1. DIY Outdoor Cooking 

Host a budget-friendly barbecue or outdoor cooking party in your backyard. Invite friends and family to bring their favorite dishes and enjoy a delicious feast together without dining out. From carne asada to veggie burgers, this guide to grilling recipes can help you get inspired: 59 Grilling Recipes to Keep You Out in the Sunshine | Bon Appétit (bonappetit.com)

  1. Stargazing 

Grab a blanket and head to a nearby park or open space for a budget-friendly stargazing adventure. Spend the evening admiring the night sky, spotting constellations, and marveling at the beauty of the cosmos. Learn how to identify the stars here: How to Identify the Stars & Use Star Maps for Stargazing (thenightsky.com)

  1. Volunteer Opportunities 

Give back to your community by volunteering for local organizations or participating in community service projects. Volunteering is a rewarding way to spend your summer while making a positive impact on others without spending money. Find volunteer opportunities for your location here:

With these budget-friendly summer adventure ideas, you can make the most of the sunny season without breaking the bank. Plus, by utilizing smart financial tools such as American State Bank’s savings accounts and our online banking services, you can further enhance your wallet-friendly summer. So, get out there and soak up the sunshine while creating lasting memories that won't cost you a fortune – and remember, American State Bank is here to support you every step of the way.