The Bank Roll

One of the best days of school is the very last day. If you’re like most teenagers, you’ve got the summer off and are looking for inexpensive ways to have some fun with your friends without draining your bank account. If you’re low on funds this summer, don’t worry, you can still enjoy yourself! Check out these ideas for having fun this summer on a budget.

Go Green

Get out and enjoy all that nature has to offer by exploring your local parks, trails and water holes. Lace up your hiking shoes, grab a friend or two, pack a picnic lunch, and get connected to nature. You can go for a hike, bike ride or swim, and for free most of the time.

Here are some resources for you to find your next adventure:

Go big or go home! Find a National Park with this Guide to National Parks

Discover trails in your state with the American Trail Guide

Stumble on a park in your area with the New England Park Association

Lions & Tigers & Roller Coasters, Oh My!

When was the last time you saw a tiger up close or strapped into a roller coaster? Although you do need to pay for tickets most of the time, there’s always coupons that come out in the summer at local establishments, or just do a Google search to find some ways to save. Here’s a guide  on Zoo’s & Amusement Parks in New England, and if you live in Westchester County NY, this site  has tons of great local attractions. Do you or your parents have an Auto Club membership? AAA offers lots of member discounts on amusement parks and other family attractions.

Live Music

If you’re like many, you love to hear live music outside in the summer. There are a lot of towns that host local music on their town green for free, or you can hit up a music festival. Check out your local entertainment news source, local paper or Patch.com to get the 411 on where you can find your next local show. If you live in CT, check out the Advocate’s Music & Events Listings.

In Westerly, Rhode Island, check out Summer Pops in the Park, presented by the Chorus of Westerly on June 23rd. The event is free and open to the public, and attracts more than 25,000 people each year. Bring a picnic and a blanket and enjoy the music and grand finale with Grucci fireworks.

Get Festive

Summer is a great time to explore some new places and faces by checking out a festival. Here’s an A-Z guide  on oodles of summer festivals happening in New England with everything from food to art to music and film.

Google It

If you’re a teenager, you’re no stranger to searching for answers online. There are a bunch of blogs with great ideas for frugal fun, including Wise Bread’s list of 25 Ways to Have Cheap Summer Fun.  You can find a lot of inexpensive ideas to enjoy your time off, just remember to get off your computer or smart phone when you’re there so you can enjoy it. Taking pictures is okay!

Having the summer off when you’re a teen or young adult is a time to treasure. Once you start working full time, you probably won’t get that much time off at once ever again, so enjoy it while you can! You don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a lot of fun. What other budget-friendly ideas can you add to the list?