Summer in South Texas is fast approaching with blazing rays of sunlight, sticky fingers and the high-pitched squeals of children at play. While the children look forward to sleeping in, and late-night movies, I always dread the extra cost that summertime brings.
Between the rising cost of summer child-care programs, the ever-increasing grocery bill caused by snack-loving kiddos and don’t even get me started on the utility bill from the A/C that will inevitably run constantly with triple-digit temperatures.
When it comes to finding things to do during those summer months that don’t break the bank, here are a few of our favorite super affordable ideas that provide hours of fun for the family!
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The Portland Aquatic Center has a wonderful set up with three separate swim areas that offer fun for all ages. Children under 2 are free, and adults are $4. With a splash pad, water slide and high dive for added fun. They have great prices for your summer parties, and lots of events like movie nights to make memories. Visit Portlandtx.com for more information. - For just $12 you can get a beach pass for the year that will allow you hours of fun in the sun. Pack a bag with blankets, beach towels sunscreen and a picnic basket and you’ll have some happy kiddos. Just remember to leave the beach cleaner than you found it and it will be a treasure for all to enjoy!
- One of our favorite things to do is set up a Slip N Slide in the back yard. Freeze some popsicles, throw on some music, hook up the water hose and go to town! Mom and Dad have even been known to join in from time to time…
- Plan a picnic by the water. You can find some super cute kites and bubble wands at HEB, Walmart and even the Dollar Store. Grab a blanket, pack some sandwiches and head down to Cole Park. The kids can run wild, fly kites, while you get the picnic ready to enjoy. Don’t forget about the play area and skate park there as well.
- Bowlero Corpus Christi has: Monday Mayhem, which for only $13.64 per person includes unlimited bowling, shoe rental, and additional food and drink specials. They also are advertising for Sunday Funday which includes: $3.19 games, $2 Laser Tag and $3 for a $6 game card at the Arcade. Let’s face it, bowling can be expensive, so any sort of deals are welcome in my opinion! Visit bowlero.com for more information about their summer specials.
- Treasure Island Golf and Games is a big hit with my kids. A quick trip over the JFK Causeway for less than $10 per person you can putt putt your way through a challenging mini-golf course with an Island/Pirate theme. The snacks can be pricey, so we typically go after we’ve eaten to save on the expense. But either way its tons of fun!
- If you are looking for a day-trip, look no further than the Texas Zoo in Victoria. It has all the amazing exhibits of a big-city zoo, but with the small-town charm. Come enjoy 7 days a week for less than $ 8 per person. With free parking, snack bar and stroller rentals it’s got everything you need and more. Visit texaszoo.org for more info.
Beat the heat without your wallet taking the hit! So, grab some snacks, lather on that sunscreen and don’t forget the Off to start your Summer in the sun. It is guaranteed to be loads of family fun!!
