Summer’s here! If you’re thinking “uh-oh” because you haven’t planned any activities yet, stop worrying. Here are some ideas from Maggie and the Moms.

Free Fun

Keeping the kids entertained doesn’t have to cost a fortune, or even a penny! As a mother of two young boys, Karimah Henry of “Crafting a Fun Life” has scouted the best splash pads in town.

Lesley “Les” Miller Jr. All People's Community Park (has one of the best shaded playgrounds)
Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park (so much to do here)
Carrollwood Village Park
Kiwanis Sprayground Highlander Park
Tarpon Springs Splash Park

Other favorite outdoor adventures include exploring Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, which hosts free family events; visiting indoor play areas around town; and having water-balloon fights in the backyard. Henry also suggests taking advantage of programs offered at local libraries, including reserving Discovery Passes for free admission to area museums and attractions.

“Mom Summer Camp”

Katie Krimitsos, Founder of The Women’s Meditation Group, suggests coordinating with other families to alternate hosting summer camp at different homes each week. This “kid sharing” allows kids to have fun with friends and gives moms “me time.”

Suggested activities:

Lego-building contests
Chicken coop makeover
Sourdough-making class
Fort-building
Beach days

Museums and Movies

With five kids in tow, summer can get busy – and expensive – for Steffany Rodriguez-Neely, Founder of The Tampa Bay Moms Group. Her family kicks off the season by creating a “Summer Bucket List,” where each child chooses a few things they really want to do.

The extra time is filled in with taking advantage of great deals like discounted summer movies. Most theaters play older releases at huge savings on tickets and have deals on snacks.

Rodriguez-Neely also recommends scouting Kids Eat Free places for deals on meals that are usually available most days of the week.

Museums are a family favorite as well. Look for free days, discount days or specials with programs like Museums for All that makes attending with a lot of kids much more budget-friendly.

Close-to-home Overnight Trips

Sometimes, it doesn’t feel like a vacation without a hotel stay, but if the schedule and budget only allow for a few nights within driving distance, Kiva Williams, AKA “The Fun Foodie Mama,” recommends her family’s favorite options – approved by her three children.

Palmetto Marriott Hotel & Spa
An amazing property with plenty to do and enjoy with the family near downtown Bradenton with waterfront cabanas and loungers, a lap pool and volleyball and pickleball courts.

Anna Maria Island Inn
This small, quaint hotel sits directly on the beach, perfect for lounging in bed and drifting off to sleep with the soothing sounds of the water. Another plus: stepping out of your room and onto the sand for morning and afternoon beach walks with family.