Summer Fun on a Shoestring

It’s summer, and you can tell by the heat—and the humidity.  If I had an unlimited budget, it wouldn’t take long for me to turn the nation’s economy around—just during the summer.  However, like just about everyone else, I’m either watching what I spend closely—or cutting back.  This week, I’m offering a few tips on how to have some good summer fun… without spending a lot (or without spending at all!).

The Dollar Movie Theater

I love going to the theater, but it costs a fortune when you pay for tickets and buy your movie snacks.  However, I know of at least one local movie theater that only charges $1 per ticket—whether you’re an adult or a child, whether you go to a matinee or an evening show.  It’s the Carmike 10 off Lorna Road in the Hoover area.  The down side: you will NOT see new movies.  However, if you want the big screen action ... for MUCH less than the norm, try this theater.  Then use the money you’re saving on tickets to splurge on movie snacks—or do as I suggested a few blogs ago and save even more by not getting the snacks.  To see the current listings, check out Carmike’s web site.

The Free Family Film Festival

Yes!  Free is always fun!!  If you want to take the kids to a family-friendly movie, Regal Cinemas offers free films certain days during the summer.  All movies are rated either G or PG.  However, again, these are NOT first-run films.  Actually, they’re already out on DVD.  But it’s a fun way to get out of the house during the week and not spend a fortune.  Keep in mind, the movies begin at 10AM, and seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis.  In our area, you can check this out on certain Tuesdays and Wednesdays in June and July at the Regal Cinemas in Trussville.  For a look at what’s playing, check out Regal’s web site.

Alabama State Parks

Now, if you want to get away from the house, Alabama State Parks may be your best bet—for outdoor fun.  Most offer biking, fishing, hiking, and camping.  Or you can stay in a lodge or a resort.  Alabama has 22 different state parks for your convenience, and there are tons of activities throughout the year.  Several to charge an admissions fee, but most (if not all) are $5 or less per person—I even saw some with admission fees of only 50 cents!  To check out all the state parks, what they offer, and what costs may (or may not) be involved, just go to the official web site for Alabama State Parks.

So those are just a few options for you.  I know there are tons more… but you know I’ll have more in the weeks ahead.  As always, if you have a topic you want me to cover, just or follow me on Twitter.  You can also find me on Facebook: just search for Amber Hawkins.  Until next time!