20 Inexpensive Fun Things to do on a Budget

Real fun things to do on a budget, that too in the USA? Seems impossible and fake, right? The World Economy is keeping our hands tied and our fun restricted. We go to work for 8 hours and then come home, do chores to sit in front of a TV all day. Our minds and soul needs refreshment but our wallets don’t let us. Living paycheck to paycheck is what’s normal around in USA.

So, I, your Budget Queen, am here to tell you that you can have fun while still being on a tight budget. Inexpensive fun things to do still exist in this time of 2024 and I am giving you a preview of a happy and soul-fulfilling life without breaking the bank.

Top 20 Fun things to do on a Budget

1- Scavenger Hunt

If you have a group of friends, or cousins, or have siblings, this is the best fun thing to do on a low budget. This can be a weekly thing where people can take turns to be a moderator for each game. Fix the number of steps for each game and enjoy this inexpensive game. You can add a bit of creativity by introducing themes or challenges to make each session unique. Everyone can bring a small snack or drink to share, making it feel like a mini-party every week. This is a great way to bond, laugh, and create lasting memories without spending much money.

2- 20 Questions

The second activity on our list of cheap but fun things to do is the famous ’20 Questions’ game. Even if you have just 1 friend or a partner, you can still enjoy your day playing it. It will not only help you bond with your partner, but you will also get to know them on a deeper level. Your friendship will take the next step because of how you will feel afterward.

To add a twist, you can create themed rounds based on your interests, like movies, books, or personal experiences. This game is perfect for long car rides or quiet evenings at home and good addition in fun things to do on a budget. It encourages meaningful conversations and can lead to surprising discoveries about each other, making your time together even more special.

3- Roller Skating

Remember the fun we had as kids doing roller skating? It was liberating but still falls under the category of fun things to do on a budget. So, try it as an adult and you will feel energetic and nostalgic. Most places charge less than $10 for roller skates on rent and you can skate around the park or free skating rink. You can even invite friends to join you and turn it into a social event.

Bring along some music to enhance the experience, or have fun practicing new tricks and moves. It’s a fantastic way to get some exercise while reliving those carefree childhood memories. Plus, the sense of freedom and joy you get from skating is truly unmatched.

`4- Fly Kites

There is something magical in seeing the kites flying freely in open air. It gets you out of the monetary world for some time and you catch yourself following the kite endlessly. Unleash your inner child with all the fun things to do on a budget. Check out these kites on a budget from Amazon.

Flying a kite can be a serene and meditative experience, providing a break from daily stress. It’s also a wonderful activity to share with friends or family, making it a perfect cheap but fun thing to do. You can even have a friendly competition to see whose kite flies the highest or performs the best tricks. Enjoy the simplicity and joy of this timeless pastime, and let your worries drift away with the wind.

5- Visit a Museum

There are some days and weekends when museums and art places are free to visit or charge minimal amounts. So keep this fun thing to do on a budget in mind while choosing for some activity. Find out these details about museums in your nearby area and visit solo or with friends to enjoy this activity in fun things to do on a budget. It is such a fun thing to do that is inexpensive, which allows you to explore culture, make artistic acquaintances, and immerse yourself in historic adventures.

Visiting museums can also inspire creativity and offer a peaceful escape from everyday routines. You might discover new favorite artists or learn fascinating historical facts. Plus, it’s a great way to spend quality time with friends, sharing thoughts and impressions about the exhibits. Don’t forget to check for special events or guided tours that can enrich your experience even further.

6- Hiking

The 6th activity on our list of fun things to do on a budget is Hiking. It clears your mind from day-to-day activities and menial tasks. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and hike on weekends. I would suggest doing this activity on Saturday. This way you can recover your strength on Sunday. Hike solo if you are an introvert, or invite your friends if being extrovert is more your style. The magic of hiking lies in the fresh air, scenic views, and the sense of accomplishment as you reach new heights. You might encounter wildlife, discover hidden trails, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

7- Factory Tour

Many factories in USA give you a free tour and even free samples or merchandise at the end. Plan a tour to a looming factory, or leather factory, or even furniture workshop if you want to learn something new. Arrange a visit to a food factory, like chocolate or biscuits if are a foodie like me. They charge you a minimal amount and even give you souvenirs.

Among other cheap but fun things to do, this might be the activity that even returns you with gifts, hence my favorite on the list of fun things to do on a budget. Imagine watching the intricate process of how your favorite items are made and then enjoying a tasty treat or a unique keepsake to take home. It’s a fun and educational adventure that offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of manufacturing.

8- Swimming

Swimming is a delight for everyone in summer. Even in winter, there are public pools with lukewarm water to wash your tiredness away. Swimming relaxes your body in such a way that even your soul feels refreshed. Fun things to do on a budget should also have a calming aftereffect, and this is just the perfect activity for it. Picture yourself gliding through the water, letting go of stress with every stroke. It’s not only invigorating but also a peaceful escape, offering a sense of weightlessness and freedom.

Whether you’re swimming laps, enjoying a leisurely float, or splashing around with friends, it’s a joyful way to unwind and feel rejuvenated. Plus, many community pools offer affordable rates, making it an accessible and enjoyable option year-round.

9- Book Reading

Reading is an art that is being left behind. But if you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city and want to escape the daily grind, cuddle up with a good book. Prepare some tea, turn the air-conditioning up, and make yourself a pillow or blanket fort. Engaging in fun things to do on a budget doesn’t mean you should let down your literary side. You will forget the world for some time and dream with your eyes open, reading an amazing book.

It is a cheap but fun thing to do in the comfort of your own home. Imagine getting lost in a different world, feeling the pages turn as you delve into adventures, mysteries, or romances. Creating a cozy reading nook with your favorite snacks and a warm drink can turn an ordinary day into a magical retreat. It’s a delightful way to unwind and let your imagination soar without ever leaving your home.

10- Star Gazing

People used stars for navigation in old times. Some say they are the stairway to heaven; some claim them to be the souls of their beloved dead relatives. Whether these beliefs are true or not, mankind has always been impressed by twinkling dots in dark nights. It is a very heartfelt activity when it comes to inexpensive fun things to do. Imagine lying on a blanket under the night sky, letting your gaze drift among the constellations, and feeling a sense of wonder and connection to the universe.

Stargazing is a peaceful, reflective experience that invites you to marvel at the beauty and vastness of the cosmos. It’s a perfect way to escape the everyday rush and enjoy a quiet moment of serenity, all without spending a dime, hence 10th on our list of fun things to do on a budget.

11- Potluck

Food brings people close, doesn’t matter what ethnicity, religion or region they belong to, good food is always appreciated. Potluck is such a fun thing to do on a budget and you get spread of different meals while being within your means and conserving your energy. You can have different themes to make it more fun. You can select a movie, season, literature or even the person’s culture as a theme.

12- Cute Photoshoot

I love taking pictures, and so does a lot of people. Get your bestfriend or your partner with you for this entry in our list of fun things to do on a budget. Select a place that is meaningful to you or if you find scenic beauty in it. Get your pictures done in a lot of poses. You can search the poses online beforehand. Then take the pictures of other person. You can then choose a winner after seeing who did the best shot. You will have a cute set of pictures at the end of this inexpensive activity.

13- Adventurous Walk

If you want to get your steps-in and don’t want to be bores, this adventurous walk around town is for you. Take turns randomly or enter the street you find beautiful. I am not going to lie and just say that it can turn dangerous very fast and it is not for weak of heart. It is better and safely played with a partner. Fun things to do on a budget can be a little random or risky, so share your location with someone before doing activities mentioned here.

14- Random Act of Kindness

Next on our list of fun things to do on a budget is random act of kindness. Kindness brings inner peace, choose a person randomly and do something good for them. Give them a flower or a small gift. You can also give money to homeless. Ideas are endless, give back love to the world and believe me, you will feel contented.

15- Flower Picking

There are many farms around towns in United States that allow for flower picking. They have some days designated for such activity. Mostly they start from $20, which is a small cost for happiness. Fun things to do on a budget can be colorful and fragrant like this one. You can take someone with you and it would be a great date.

16- Bowling

Your competitive spirit will come out competing in a bowling set. You will heal your inner child bit by bit by playing this game. Some bowling alleys even charge a minimal rate of $3 per game or $12 per hour. Told you, fun things to do on a budget created more joy than expensive ones.

17- Free Makeover

If you love makeup than this entry in our list of fun things to do on a budget is for you. And it does not cost you anything, it’s totally free. Many makeup outlets and departmental stores over free makeup done by professionals to persuade you in buying products from them. Ulta beauty, Sephora, Nordstorm and such offer complimentary services. Buying is totally optional though. You can just get make up done and walk out with a conditioner you already needed.

18- Cake Decoration

18th on our list of fun things to do on a budget is Cake Decoration. Go to departmental store and buy inexpensive cake decoration items you find within $20. Make a cake from a cake mix or from scratch at home and decorate it. Involve your family to share laughter and memories.

19- Ghost Tour

Inclusion of horror activity in fun things to do on a budget was a must. There is a free Ghost tour that happens in Edinburgh. I am sure there are several such tours offered freely or on a minimal fee around $10.

20- Local Community Theatre Play

Even a theatre play can be incorporated in fun things to do on a budget. Many plays are shown for free or on a minimal ticket around $10. Check out local community theaters in your area and enjoy live theatre now.

Honorable Mentions among Inexpensive Fun Things to do

When it comes to finding fun things to do on a budget, there are plenty of honorable mentions that can make for a memorable time without breaking the bank. Here are a few ideas that didn’t make into our list of top 20 inexpensive fun things to do but might spark your interest:

Free Lectures

Many schools offer free lectures and talks on a variety of topics, from local history to cutting-edge science. These classes are a fantastic way to learn something new and engage with interesting speakers, all without spending a dollar. Check out your local library, community center, or university for this type of upcoming events. It’s a great way to expand your knowledge and meet like-minded people of all ages. It is the most adult fun thing to do on a budget.

Free Concerts

If you’re a music lover, keep an eye out for free concerts in your area. Parks, town squares, and even coffee shops in USA often host live music events that are totally free. Whether it’s a local band or a solo artist, live music is a fantastic way to enjoy an evening out while supporting local talent. Personally, I love this fun thing to do on a budget and you would enjoy the show too!

DIY Home Décor

Transforming your living space doesn’t have to be expensive. Dive into some DIY home décor projects and let your creativity shine. The sense of achievement you feel after seeing your décor display in your home, is beyond anything. From painting old furniture to creating custom wall art, there are countless ways to refresh your home using materials you already have or inexpensive supplies. YouTube and Pinterest are full of ideas and tutorials that can guide you through fun and rewarding projects. It’s one of the best fun things to do on a budget.

Truth or Dare

For a low-cost, high-energy activity, gather your friends for a game of Truth or Dare. It’s a classic that never gets old and can lead to hilarious and memorable moments. Whether you’re in for some light-hearted fun or pushing boundaries, this game is a great way to bond and have a blast. This is definitely one of the best fun things to do on a budget.

These activities not only keep things interesting but also prove that you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Incorporating these fun things to do on a budget into your routine can lead to some truly enjoyable experiences without stretching your finances.