Trust me, I know as well as anyone how expensive summertime can become. With all that downtime, you may find yourself wanting to purchase tickets, meals, or take your kiddos shopping for new toys and games, but there are options for free and affordable summer activities.
Here are ideas for free family fun around RVA this summer:
Splash Pads/Spraygrounds
Pack a towel, snacks and a change of clothes and you’ve got a morning full of fun. Here are a few splash pads are completely free to visit:
Beulah Park (North Chesterfield)
Dorey Park (East End, Henrico)
Eastern Recreation Center (East End, Henrico)
Dunncroft/Castle Point Park (West End/Glen Allen)
Short Pump Park (Short Pump)
Stony Point Fashion Park (South Richmond near North Chesterfield)
Taylor Farm Park (East End, Henrico)
Twin Hickory Park (Short Pump/Glen Allen)
Grand Opening June 11: The Park at River City SportsPlex (Midlothian)
Libraries
The local libraries offer a variety of programs of all ages: from magic shows to baby story times, you can find something for even the youngest bibliophile. Can’t make it for a program? Don’t worry—there’s still plenty to do when you visit the library.
Check out the children’s sections for engaging toys, participate in the Summer Reading Programs or enjoy a Story Walk. If you’re the goal setting type, design a goal around library visits. For example, set a goal to visit a new library each week, or to visit every library in your county, or to read a certain number of books with your kids.
Check out my list of five Richmond-area libraries to visit this summer!
Fire Department Visits
It’s completely free to visit your local fire department. My kids love this simple “field trip,” as they typically have a chance to try on firefighting gear, hear the siren and see the lights up close!
The fire departments also do a great job of facilitating a kid-friendly (non-scary) talk about fire safety. We love to bring treats, like donuts or bagels when we visit.
Virginia State Parks
Pocahontas State Park, the largest in Virginia, and closest to Richmond hosts Caterpillar Club every Thursday for children ages 3-5 to learn about nature through hands-on activities. Attending this program is free and there is no parking fee when you attend Caterpillar Club. For older children, completing the Junior Ranger badge is a creative way to learn about nature.
Learn more about what Pocahontas has to offer families!
Volunteer
Do good for your community and it will make you feel good, too! And, volunteering is free!
Check out opportunities at the local food banks, Shalom Farms, community centers like the YMCA of Richmond, and more for the right service opportunities for your family.
Find inspiration for family-friendly volunteer opportunities!
For more ideas on how to save money this summer, check out Tori’s article about managing unstructured summer days without breaking the bank.
