Summertime means sun, fun and family vacations. However, if your budget won't allow for you to get out of town this year, you can still have lots of family fun together.Here are a few staycation ideas:
- Set up your own water park. Use your own pool, slip 'n slide and sprinklers. Arrange them in an obstacle course for the kids to run and play and stay cool. Be sure to make some popsicles because it isn't a water park without frozen treats! Or, visit one of Kansas City's Spraygrounds for more free water fun!
- Plan a neighborhood BBQ. Assign a food item to all of the neighbors, bring your chairs, coolers and have a great time. By each household providing one item, your cash outflow is minimal and you get to have a fun party. The Cheesy Corn Bake Recipe from Jack Stack is a favorite!
- Visit your local museums. Many times, there is little to no admission to these venues. They are a great way to add a little culture to your life -- plus they are air conditioned and can keep you cool. Read our reviews of Kansas City Museums to find the perfect outing for your family.
- Bring the ballpark home. Don your favorite team's apparel, cook up all of the baseball park fixins' such as hot dogs, nachos and soft drinks, and turn on the tube. Root for the home team from home.
- Venture into story time at the library. This is a great way to stimulate your child's love of reading. Check out your local library for summer reading events.
- Hike through nature. My daughter loves to go on nature hikes. She helps her dad by picking up trash in the yard, looks for wildlife and learns about the plants and trees that are growing in our own neighborhood. Read our guide to Kansas City's Nature Centers for a nature-themed outing for FREE!
- Picnic in the Park. My kids would live in the park if I let them. So, we pack a picnic lunch and head out to enjoy the play equipment. Lunch under a leafy canopy rounds out the fun before we return home for naptime. See our guide to Kansas City's Best Parks to find a new favorite fun spot!
Tracie Fobes live in Raymore with her family. She and other moms (and dads) blog daily at KCParent.com. Join the conversation today!