15 Free or Low-Cost Summer Activities for Single Moms and Kids

Budget-Friendly Fun for Single Moms

Summer should be a season of connection and joy—not stress over money. As a single mom, you already carry so much. Finding free things to do with your kids in the summer doesn’t have to be another burden. With a little creativity and planning, you can make this your most memorable summer yet—without spending much at all.

This list of 15 free or low-cost summer activities is designed especially for single moms who want to keep their children engaged, happy, and active all summer long.

1. Backyard Camping Adventure

Pitch a tent (or build a fort out of sheets!), grab flashlights, and have a backyard sleepover. Tell spooky stories, stargaze, and enjoy snacks—no campground fees required.

2. Take Advantage of Free Library Programs

Public libraries are packed with free summer resources: story time, craft activities, and reading challenges with rewards. They’re educational and air-conditioned!

3. Explore Local Parks and Nature Trails

Pack a simple picnic and go on a hike. Create a nature scavenger hunt or try birdwatching. Many trails are kid-friendly and completely free.

4. Host a DIY Water Day

Beat the heat with water balloons, sponges, buckets, or sprinklers. It’s one of the most fun and free ways to spend a summer afternoon.

5. Create an Obstacle Course

Use items you already have—brooms, boxes, jump ropes—to build an indoor or outdoor obstacle course. Time each other for a friendly competition.

6. Visit Museums on Free Admission Days

Many children’s museums and science centers offer monthly or weekly free entry days. It’s a perfect way to add variety to your summer routine.

7. Make Homemade Popsicles

Freeze juice or yogurt with fruit in ice cube trays or dollar-store molds. It’s a sweet, affordable treat the kids can help make.

8. Go on a “Park Hop”

Explore a new playground or park each week. Bring snacks, toys, or bikes and make each visit feel like a mini field trip.

9. Chalk the Sidewalk

Sidewalk chalk is cheap and provides hours of entertainment. Let the kids create a mural, design games, or even make a math maze.

10. Plan a Family Talent Show

Let each person show off a skill—singing, dancing, jokes, or magic tricks. Record it for a laugh later or send to family members.

11. Find Free Community Events

Check city websites, Facebook Events, or Eventbrite for free kid-friendly festivals, outdoor movies, and concerts happening in your area.

12. Start a “Summer Fun” Jar

Write down free or low-cost summer activities on slips of paper. Let your kids draw one each morning for a spontaneous adventure.

13. Host an At-Home Movie Night

Use your TV or laptop, make popcorn, and pile up pillows for a movie night in. Bonus points for homemade tickets and concession stands.

14. Get Crafty with Nature Supplies

Collect leaves, pinecones, or stones and use them to make creative nature art. Try painting rocks, leaf rubbings, or fairy houses.

15. Volunteer Together

Teach your kids the joy of giving back. Volunteer at a local community garden, food pantry, or pet shelter together—it’s free and meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Summer Without Spending a Lot

You don’t need a big budget to give your children a magical summer. With a mix of creativity, local resources, and intentional time together, you can create lasting memories—and even build new traditions.

If you’re a single mom looking for more ways to organize your finances, save money, or build a strong financial future for your family, I’d love to connect.

👉 Book a free 15-minute chat with me here