Taking a weeklong trip may be difficult on the pocketbook and staying local saves money. You will save on gas, air, and hotels and have more money to spend in your own backyard. Seldom do we take advantage of what we have at home and now till the end of summer is the perfect opportunity to become spontaneous! 

Mini day trips involve little planning – all you need to do is decide on the amount you want to spend and where you want to go. Check out priceline.com and look up museums, amusement parks and local events at a discount. Your local city website will have upcoming events like festivals, parades and local entertainment. Below are some ideas that don’t cost a lot of money but will leave lasting memories.

Some Things to Do:

• Movies in the Park – Pretend that your back yard is the park and pitch a tent or sleep under the stars, your kids will love it! Make popcorn, snacks and s’mores, bring a small TV or laptop and watch a rented movie under the stars. If you want to see a new release in the theater AAA members receive 40% off movie tickets, just visit a local office and pick up your no expiration date tickets anytime! 
• Day at the Museum – Pick a museum the family agrees on a make a day of it and bring your favorite sack lunch and enjoy eating outside on the Museum grounds.
• Day at the Park – There are some great city parks, with duck ponds, fishing and plenty of room to fly a kite.
• Road Trip – If you have bikes go on a road trip, create a hand made map with clues for different stops. It will be an adventure for the kids to figure out where you are going. Bring a backpack full of food, drinks and a special surprise for the final destination.
• Take a Hike to the Lake or River – If you live close to a river or lake take a hike, bring a picnic and explore. Kids love to climb mountains and many national parks have streams and lakes.
• Share a Trip with other Families – My favorite trips as a kid were with lots of people and it can bring the costs down. Plan an overnight trip with friends, the kids can sleep on the floor and have a slumber party.

Your kids will remember the time you spent together and the memories of these little trips will last a lifetime. Bring a camera and or a video camera and above all enjoy the moments and cherish the time spent together.