Summer fun doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Whether you’re heading to the zoo, cooling off at a water park, or catching a movie, there are easy ways to save money—especially if you know where to find the right coupons. From family outings to solo adventures, these ideas will help you enjoy more while spending less.
Check out simple ways to stretch your budget and pack in more fun this summer.
Use Coupons for Outdoor Entertainment
1Visit Local Attractions for Less
Zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, and museums often run special summer discounts. Check the official website or coupon apps like Groupon for entry discounts or free admission days.
💰 Tip: Some cities offer city passes with coupons for multiple attractions bundled together.
2Save on Water Parks and Pools
Whether it’s a major water park or your local pool, summer splash spots often promote online ticket discounts or printable coupons. RetailMeNot and CouponCabin are great places to look.
💰 Example Deal: Save $10 off general admission at select water parks with an online promo code.
3Plan a Discounted Mini Golf or Bowling Night
Check your local bowling alleys or mini golf courses for printable coupons or weekday specials. Many offer “Kids Bowl Free” programs during the summer with registration.
💰 Example Deal: Use a BOGO coupon for mini golf from your city’s tourism website.
Score Deals on Movie Nights and Events
4 Go to Matinees or Discount Days
Most theaters offer lower prices during weekday matinees or special discount nights. Combine that with coupons from apps like Atom Tickets or Fandango for extra savings.
5Look for Free or Cheap Outdoor Movies
Many towns host free movie nights in the park during the summer. Bring your own snacks and enjoy an affordable night out. Some events may offer coupons for nearby concessions or food trucks.
6Spices and Herbs
Apps like Goldstar and Groupon often feature discounted tickets to concerts, comedy shows, and local festivals. It’s a smart way to enjoy entertainment without paying full price.
💰 Example Deal: Get 50% off tickets to a summer jazz night through Goldstar.
Dine and Snack on a Budget
7Take Advantage of Kids Eat Free Deals
Many family-friendly restaurants offer “kids eat free” nights during the summer. Check store websites, social media pages, or The Krazy Coupon Lady for a running list of current offers.
8Use Restaurant Coupon Apps
Download apps like Burger King, McDonald’s, or Wendy’s for access to mobile-only deals and free menu items with purchase.
💰 Example Deal: Free medium fries with any purchase every Friday in the McDonald’s app.
9Pack a Picnic with Grocery Coupons
Planning an outdoor picnic or beach day? Use grocery coupon apps like Ibotta or Fetch Rewards to save on snacks, drinks, and summer treats.
💰 Example Deal: Get $1 cashback on a bag of Lay’s chips with Ibotta.
Save on Shopping and Summer Gear
10Shop Discounted Summer Essentials
Stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar General regularly offer coupons on items like sunscreen, bug spray, beach towels, and sunglasses. Check their apps for digital coupons before heading out.
💰 Example Deal: $2 off Banana Boat sunscreen at Coupons.com.
11Use Coupon Codes for Summer Clothing
Before buying swimsuits, sandals, or shorts, search RetailMeNot or Slickdeals for promo codes. Many stores offer seasonal discounts or free shipping with codes.
12Look for Sports Equipment Deals
Planning to play backyard games or go hiking? Check stores like Academy Sports or Dick’s Sporting Goods for printable and digital coupons. They often run summer clearance events.
💰 Example Deal: $10 off $50 at Academy Sports when signing up for their email list.
Free and Low-Cost Fun with a Coupon Boost
13Visit State and National Parks
Many parks offer free entrance days in the summer. Check if your state tourism board has any printable coupons or “staycation” promotions.
14Attend Free Community Events
Parades, outdoor yoga, farmers markets, and block parties are often free to attend. Some may include vendor coupons, free samples, or raffles for discounted local services.
15Find Boredom Busters at the Library
Public libraries often host free summer reading programs, craft kits, and events for kids and teens. Some even partner with local businesses to offer coupons as reading prizes!
Conclusion
Summer fun doesn’t have to mean overspending. By using coupons, cashback apps, and free local events, you can keep your schedule packed and your budget in check. Start with just a few of these tips, and you’ll be surprised how much you can save—all while making the most of summer break.
