Taking a vacation can be costly. If you’re flying the whole family somewhere special, you’ll likely spend a whole bunch of money on airfare, baggage fees, hotel rooms, taxis, and possibly a rental car before you’ve even started to explore the area. But once you’re settled in, you don’t have to spend more money on activities.
Here are eight free and fun ideas to keep the family occupied. (See also: 7 Fool-Proof Ways to Stay Within Your Travel Budget)1. Free museums
Museums are not the stuffy old hangouts they used to be. Or rather, people thought they were. Today’s museums have taken advantage of the latest technology, and they embrace pop culture to bring some very fun and family-friendly exhibitions to life. While many museums around the world charge an admission fee (especially for a big event like Star Wars costumes), there are a bunch that will let you get in for free at any time of the year. For example, the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C., including the Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum, and the Natural History Museum, are completely free of charge to visit. Others are free on certain days. (See also: 5 Natural Wonders You Can See For Free)
2. Picnic in the park
Chances are, you’ll find a park somewhere near the place you’re visiting. Even Manhattan, which is one of the busiest cities in the world, has dozens of parks to visit. If the weather will allow it, why not spend one day of your vacation at the park? Ideally, you should pack a picnic blanket before you go on your vacation.
If you didn’t, or adding the blanket adds extra baggage fees, pick up a cheap one at the dollar store or drugstore when you get there. Some hotels provide extra blankets and bedding in the closets, so that’s another frugal option for you.If your hotel provides a complimentary breakfast or buffet, take advantage of it. Otherwise, check out the nearest grocery store for food, snacks, and drinks, and remember to get some recyclable plates, cups, and silverware. As always, leave the park free from any of your trash and containers when you leave.
3. Photo scavenger hunt challenge
Wherever you go on vacation, it’s going to have landmarks and places of interest. Before you go, do a little research. What are some famous monuments in the area? Are there unusual street names and street signs? How about some local celebrities, or popular places to eat and drink?
Make a good list of around 20+ items, varying in difficulty from really easy to “How the heck will we get a shot of that?!” Then, pick a day to do your scavenger hunt and split into groups. If you’re with children, make sure they’re in a group with someone of appropriate age to help them cross the street. Give yourself a time limit, then agree to meet back at the hotel and…
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