80 years ago you could get a hamburger AND a pint of ice cream for almost a quarter EACH! Times have changed and budgets are tighter but that doesn’t mean you can’t have summer fun without taking out a loan! Here are JUST 4 fun and affordable ways you can make sure your kids stay happy and entertained right here in the Gulf Coast!
1. Cheap Movies
Photo by Sarah_Ackerman
Regal Theaters across the area hold their Summer Movie Express every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the summer. Kid friendly movies every week and all for $1 each! Just picture it! Movies to keep your kids occupied in a nice dark, air conditioned room…no one’s going to judge you if you sneak in a quick nap. Plus a portion of the proceeds go to the Will Rogers Institute (A charitable foundation supporting research in asthma, tuberculosis and pulmonary diseases).
2. Sweet Treats
Photo by Leonid Mamchenkov
There’s nothing better than a nice, cold frozen treat to help beat the summer heat! Did you know July is National Ice Cream month? Be on the lookout for great deals and specials this month on your favorite snacks! Check out great local favorites like David’s Sno-Balls (ice cream IN a sno cone!?) or Pink Pelican Ice Cream Bar! Don’t forget about Sweet Frog Frozen Yogurt (a pay by the ounce, healthier ice cream alternative…until you hit the toppings bar).
3. Splash Down
Photo by vastateparksstaff
Of course the most traditional and often favorite way to beat the heat during the summer is a quick dip in the pool! Obviously the beach and Shipwreck Island are popular water spots but don’t forget to check the Panama City Beach Aquatic Center or the Splash Pad at the MLK Recreation Center for some affordable/free water fun (and less crowds than the beach)!
4. Game On
Photo by chelseacharliwhite
If we don’t step in and do something most of our kids would be content to stay glued to a television or tablet playing their favorite video games. There’s no sense in fighting it but at least they can get out of the house and interact with other gamers. Facilities like GameTime offer a variety of gaming and arcade activities for kids of all ages with some all day specials. Pier Park’s Miracle Strip also has some early bird or late night specials throughout the summer to save you some cash! Or put their hand eye coordination skills to the test with REAL life gaming like bowling (plenty of summer specials to be had at your local alley)
5. VBS
Photo by FirstBaptistNashville
Summer always brings our favorite time of year – Vacation Bible School season!! You want to talk about fun, affordable (usually FREE) summer fun than look no further than VBS! Your kids will have a blast learning new songs, playing fun games, making creative crafts, AND learn more about Jesus all at once! We’ve got you covered with the VBS HQ – find EVERY Vacation Bible School and summer camp nearest to you all in one website!
The possibilities of summer fun are endless and the best part is – it doesn’t have to break the bank! Of course if you’re ever looking for fun, family-friendly activities don’t forget to check out the Community Events Calendar! We add new events every single day of the year! You’re guaranteed to find something to do in the Gulf Coast that will get you and your family outside of the same 4 walls!
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