Between buying season passes to that waterpark, financing your family vacay and making it rain every time the dreaded ice cream truck drives by, the only thing drier than this summer is what it’s done to your bank account. Fortunately, our resident lifestyle gurus are all about making memories that will shatter your expectations without breaking the bank.

Learn Something New

Take a deep dive into your city’s culture by exploring local museums. Not sure when admission is free? No problem. We kept a finger on it for you:

• Midland/Odessa, TX area
  • Museum of the Southwest – free on Cimarex Sundays
• Dallas/Fort Worth, TX area
  • Interurban Railway Museum – always free
• Lubbock, TX area
  • National Ranching Heritage Center – free, donations encouraged
• Wichita Falls, TX area
  • Wichita Falls Museum of Art at MSU Texas – always free
• Abilene, TX area
  • The Grace Museum – free each Thursday from 5 pm to 8 pm

Drive Up to the Big Screen

The drive in is a classic staple of summer fun—and most theaters screen two flicks for the cost of one if that sweetens the pot for you. Cut costs and calories by packing these fun munchies along for the show:

• Steamed edamame
• Air-popped popcorn seasoned with cayenne pepper, parmesan cheese, or rosemary
• Brown rice cakes topped with peanut butter, berries, and sprinkles

Give Disc Golf a Go

Grab a frisbee and head to a local park for a game (or two) of disc golf! It’s a great way to get the family moving and a wonderful excuse to pack these deliciously healthy snacks:

• Cucumber slices
• Baked carrot chips
• Baked kale chips
• Dietary fiber-dense granola bars
• Frozen fruit yogurt-dipped bites

Take a Walk in a National Park

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the unique ecosystems and character of your local national parks. Not only will you get to endure the majesty of nature—you’ll also steal some great content for your Insta.

Fuel your outdoor adventure with a nutrient-dense trail mix consisting of sugar-free dried fruits, unsalted cashews, almonds, pumpkin seeds, air-popped popcorn, and sunflower seeds.

Book it to the Library

Enroll your kiddo in a local summer reading program to help them practice their reading skills and make time for you to get caught up on the Bestseller List. Swipe your library card as many times as you like; your bank account won’t feel a thing.

Turn Your Living Room into a Campsite

Grab a few blankets, bed sheets, pillows, and chairs for a DIY evening of films and forts your whole family will love. Add to the magic with snacks themed to the outdoors, like ants on a log: celery topped with peanut butter and raisins!

Are You Fun, Frugal, and Fabulous?

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