Summer is here and school is out! There is no better time than the present to get the whole family together to soak up the summer sun. Gear up to celebrate the season with these inexpensive family activities that will allow you to make the most of summer without breaking the bank.

Fun in the Sun
Appreciate all the Earth has to offer and spend some time breathing in the great outdoors. Make a splash at Blue Springs State Park or Wekiwa Springs State Park where you can cool off by kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming through the crystal, freshwater springs. When you’re ready to refuel, take a break and break out the picnic blanket to enjoy a snack in the sun.

Picnic basket essentials checklist: Pinwheel sandwiches, sunscreen, napkins, fresh fruit, sunglasses, bottled water, paper plates and plastic utensils, and an insulated thermos.

In sunny Orlando, spend the day on the water in one of Lake Eola’s famous swan boats for just $15 and learn the secrets of the city with Orlando’s Historical Highlights Walking Tour. Available on for download on any Apple or Android device, this tour will bring you through landmarks, such as the Orlando Public Library, Lake Eola, and Church Street Station for under $6. As you walk, hear the history of the city through the cattle barons, citrus farmers, gunslingers and NASA engineers that made Orlando what it is today.

If your family likes to be one with nature, visit Harry P. Leu Gardens and walk through three miles of scenic trails filled with over 40 diverse plant species. Discover plants from all over the world and learn how each contribute to the ecosystem. Stop by the butterfly garden to feel the enchanted glory of nature as flocks of butterflies bounce from flower to flower. As a bonus, children under four get in for free!

Artistic Excursions
While Central Florida’s scenery is already a masterpiece in itself, there are also many hidden gem art galleries to explore when the inevitable summer showers pour. Don’t let the rain stop the fun! Head down to Winter Park to admire the artistic work at the Hannibal Square Heritage Center or the Rollins Museum of Art at Rollins College for free. For parents with older, college bound kids, this is a great time to knock out a college tour while having fun with the rest of the family.

When the sun shines again, step outside into the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden where you can see 50,000 square-feet of enchanted sculptures. Also in Downtown Orlando, take a tour of the city’s murals. From the Happy Hearts Wall at Infusion Tea to the Skyline Mural on 42 Concord St, see how many hidden paintings you can spot around town.

But first take a selfie! Both of these adventure spots are perfect for a family photo-op.

Thrilling Theme Parks
Although Orlando is notoriously known as the home of Mickey, ditch the expensive Disney tickets and head to its neighbor Old Town where admission is completely free. Be transported to a classic Florida town decked out in palm trees and brick roads. Adventure seekers can feel the rush on Old Town’s many rides and rollercoasters while others can shop ‘til they drop at the unique stores and gift shops. After exploring the parks attractions, take a break to cool off in one of Old Town’s mouthwatering restaurants.

If your family is looking for a little friendly competition, visit In the Game ICON Park in Orlando, Florida. Challenge your family to classic arcade games each under $5. Win prizes, get lost in the mirror maze, solve your way out of an escape room or bring your imagination to life at the X-D motion theater and virtual reality experience. In the Game is guaranteed to satisfy sibling rivalries and bring the entire family together.

By: Jenna Greaves