5 Inexpensive Ways to Have Fun

So, you're on a budget, and you think you and your family can't have any fun, right? Think again. There are a lot of great ways to have fun, live a full life, and keep the kids entertained without having to shell out the big bucks.

Try these five tips:

1. Are you a movie lover? For a family of four, a trip to the movies can cost as much as $30 before concessions. With concessions, you are looking at a total of $50-60. Instead, go to a matinee or wait until the movie plays at a second-run theater. These little mom-and-pop theaters are a great way to enjoy a movie without paying full price. Try to eat before going so you can skip the concession stand altogether. Movie theaters make most of their profits from the popcorn and candy you buy at the concession stand.

2. Or, you can skip going out to the movies completely, and pay for Netflix or Blockbuster's monthly movie-mail subscription. This way you can rent all the movies you want, walk as far your mailbox to get them (saving on gas), and not worry about late fees. Plus, you can make or buy your own concessions and still have that "movie theater" experience without the hassle of fighting for parking.

3. Like the great outdoors? Try a put-put golf course. You don't even need your own clubs! Clubs are usually included with your entry fee. If golf is not your thing, pay a visit to the zoo, the museum, the aquarium or the swimming pool. Most of these facilities offer discount admission times, or even free days!

4. Eat out during Happy Hour at restaurants. A lot of restaurants and pubs offer Happy Hours, typically from 4-6pm daily, as a way to drum up business during their slow times. Many pubs are family friendly, so you can take the kids and eat a full meal but only pay half the price of what you would pay an hour or two later.

5. Visit your local park or beach. Pack a picnic lunch, take along some bikes or balsa wood airplanes, and spend a few hours enjoying a free afternoon relaxing. Even in the winter months, parks and beaches can be a fun place to play. Create a scavenger hunt, explore the tide pools or do a little hiking to keep warm.

These are just a few tips for having fun on a budget. With a little thought, you can come up with some great ideas yourself. Search through your local parenting magazines or newspapers. Periodicals like these usually have sections that list free or inexpensive events for families. The important part is having fun while creating memories that will last a lifetime!

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