Get eight single moms inexpensive activities you can do this summer in Massachusetts and beyond!

Every summer I try to come up with affordable and fun activities to keep my three kids entertained. We are fortunate that Massachusetts offers a wide range of low-cost (and sometimes free!) options for families to enjoy. Here are some ideas for some single moms inexpensive activities to do with your kids this summer.

1. Spend a couple hours at your local park or playground – Massachusetts has so many beautiful parks and playgrounds that are free to visit and a great way to spend a morning before it gets too hot. Check out your own area – their tourism websites can be great tools – and see what hidden gems you have yet to discover.

2. Plan a day at the beach – Massachusetts has so many beautiful public beaches, many of which offer free or low-cost parking. (Check if you need to reserve a spot  ahead of time). Pack a cooler with drinks/sandwiches/snacks and you’ll keep your costs limited. Not every community is on the ocean like we are, but check out what alternatives might be in your area. Splash parks? Lakes?

3. Attend a community event – Many towns and cities in Massachusetts host free or low-cost community events throughout the summer. Check your local newspaper or community bulletin board for information about festivals, fairs, and concerts in your area. Almost all communities have something happening in the better weather months.

4. Take a hike – Massachusetts has so many beautiful hiking trails that are free to explore. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging trek, there are plenty of options available. Some popular trails include the Middlesex Fells Reservation, the Blue Hills Reservation, and the Mohawk Trail State Forest. Grab another mom friend and their kids so you have another adult to go on this adventure with. In other areas, check out this page for resources for best hikes in every state.

5. Visit a museum – Many of the museums in Massachusetts offer free admission days or discounted tickets for families. The Boston Children’s Museum, the Museum of Science, and the New England Aquarium are just a few of the options available. I’ve had success reserving museum passes from the library, but they go quickly so plan ahead! Explore your area – again, tourism guides are chock full of interesting and not-always-known-about interesting places.

6. Attend a free movie screening – find a nearby town that is hosting a free outdoor movie screening. Bring a blanket and some snacks and enjoy a family-friendly film under the stars.

7. Visit a farmers’ market – your town (or a neighboring town) may have a farmers’ markets that offer fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. Many markets also host free events and activities for families, such as cooking demos and live music. Let the kids pick out their own goodies and then help you prep them later for meals.

8. Have a backyard campout – Set up a tent in your backyard and spend the night sleeping under the stars. Roast marshmallows, tell ghost stories, and enjoy some quality time with your kids. If you don’t like mosquitoes, have the campout inside, and make the smores in the microwave – they still taste good!

Bonus tip: Befriend someone with a pool! I’m kidding. Well, it’s actually not a bad idea….. maybe you can barter some snacks for pool time?

For more ideas on summer, check out this article on Vacations After Divorce.

You can create lasting memories without breaking the bank.There are so many fun single moms inexpensive activities out there. Explore your area, be creative, let what the kids are into guide you and see what is out there for us enjoy with our kids this summer.