As we wade through the dog days of Summer in the Pacific Northwest it can be a bit overwhelming trying to plan fun family activities on a budget. Whether you’re a native, newcomer or just visiting you are probably familiar with the crazy Summer weather patterns the Seattle area is known for. This year has been particularly wonky causing a sort of desperation to get out into the sunshine while it lasts. These activities are not only full of family fun, but also super budget friendly.

** Please note, this post does contain affiliate links for your convenience. If you click them, we may be compensated at no cost to you. This small amount helps us continue writing**

Head out to the movies. You are probably thinking “yeah right, on a budget!?”, but Summer is the perfect time to take in a flick with the whole family. Here’s how… Did you know many parks in the Northwest host outdoor movies all Summer long? They do and they are generally free or just on a donation basis. Another option is heading out to one of our state’s drive- in theaters, most are very reasonably priced and often include a double or even triple feature to give you more bang for your buck! If outdoor viewing isn’t your thing, check out Regal Summer movie specials for families. They both offer select movies geared toward kids for little to no cost. For a unique twist on Summer movie nights, try hosting your own (indoor or outdoor movie). Invite some friends over for a potluck style dinner and wow the whole group with an old favorite or a new release. Little ones can present they’re at the drive in by making fun ‘cars’ out of boxes or bringing their own cozy coup style ride. If you go this route be sure to stock up on box office favorite snacks such as buttered popcorn, raisinettes, m&m’s and sour patch kids.

Splish Splash at one of Washington’s many amazing splash pad parks. Did you know Washington actually has a tun of splash pads? If you have kids from 1-10+ this is an excellent and FREE way to beat the heat and the boredom. Most splash parks are located within parks with other great attractions such as playgrounds, walking trails or ball fields. Our favorite even hosts its own petting zoo! Tire little ones out pretty quickly at the playground and cool them off with some silly frolics in the various fun sprinklers. For older kids, why not plan a day of hiking, ball games, playground picnics and so much splashing. We are working on a full list of Washington Splash pad parks, but for now we’ll tell you our favs… Forest Park in Everett (petting zoo, small kids area, huge playground with toddler area, walking trails, hiking trails, horse shoes, grass fields, pool (fee), tuns of parking) Edmonds City Park (large buckets of water, small kids area, playground, walking trails, limited parking), North Lynwood Park (mellow splash pad, playground, walking path, huge grassy area, very limited parking), Haller Park in Arlington (brand new splash pad and playground, big buckets of water and tot toys, tot toys not separated from big kids, plenty of parking, snack shack).

Library fun for everyone! In our digital, device for everything era libraries may seem sort of mundane, but at most you’ll find lots of new technology and oh so many fun kids programs. For small kids libraries offer wonderful opportunities to explore new ideas through books, music, new toys and arts and crafts while interacting with other kids. For older kids most libraries offer STEM activities, book clubs, reading challenges and more. For more information check snoisle.org or check your local library website.

Take a hike! Destress the natural way… exercise and walking filled with nature and fresh air. You don’t have to be an avid outdoorsman to get into nature in Washington. Our state offers simple hiking trails for all ages at many neighborhood parks, stroller friendly hikes for those who want to get out with little ones and overnight trails for experienced adventure seekers. For a complete guide and more information on hikes in our area visit the Washington Trails Association. Just remember to head out on any hike prepared. We always bring a backpack with lightweight snacks, enough water for all hikers in our party, good shoes and an emergency kit. Also, be sure to get an understanding of the trail your hiking and know any potential hazards particularly for larger hikes.

Beach day of play! Washington is home to a plethora of AMAZING BEACHES! From the sandy beaches on the pacific coast to the rock-mazing stretches of peninsula beach to the sea life laden puget sound beaches, there is something unique around every corner and under every rock. An absolute favorite for a full beach day is the Mukilteo Lighthouse Park. Here you’ll find your pick of delicious dine in or take out food (and ice cream), picnic shelters, fire pits, walking path, small boat launch, hotel, playground, historic lighthouse and much more. Arrive early on weekends as it does get super crowded.

Go berry picking. July and August are prime picking time for blueberries and huckleberries followed by blackberries. From Bellingham to Bellevue and beyond there are a plethora of farms that invite guests to come pick your own berries and usually at a fraction of the cost of the supermarket. Not only will you get a delicious treat, you’ll have a fun experience and save money on your groceries. Wondering if your kids are too little? We bought our seven month old and three year old last year and they both couldn’t get enough of the outside time, berry snacking (just don’t sample too many) and of course what three year old wouldn’t love picking things and dropping them into a bucket! Just make sure you dump kids’ buckets frequently and monitor the bucket holding, so you don’t end up like we did! Check out Washington States U-Pick Farms Finder to locate a farm near you.