Just in Time for Summer Vacation: Low Budget Activities for the Whole Family

School is now out for the summer, which means thousands of Edmonton's Children will be free of homework, gym class, and classrooms. But what can a parent do to fill so much free time? Read on to learn about our favourite low budget and family friendly activities to fill the lazy days of summer!

Tour the Alberta Legislature Building

Guided tours of this architecturally stunning building are completely free and are a great way to kill a hour or two before lunch. Your kids will love the waterfall pools and the beautiful gardens, we promise!

Go for a Bike Ride and Plan a Picnic in the Edmonton River Valley

It costs nothing to go for a bike ride, and it's a great way to let the kids burn off some energy during the day. Plan your route so that it leads you to a wide open space by the river and bring a picnic and a ball of frisbee to keep the afternoon fun and entertaining. Remember to bring bug spray and sunscreen as well!

Get Involved with your Neighbourhood Green Shack

Green Shacks are a freeCity of Edmonton initiative that pop up at almost every community centre in the summer. The Green Shack program provides supervision while children ages 6-12 are led in games, crafts, sports, outdoor cooking and more!

Ride the High Level Bridge Streetcar

For only $5 admission you can ride round trip from downtown Edmonton to Old Strathcona. If you're looking to treat the kids to a late bedtime be sure to take in the views of the city at sunset!

Visit a Permanent Skateboard Park

If you have a little skater in your family don't be afraid to take them to on of Edmonton's permanent Skateboard Parks! These parks are free, staffed daily and are a great place to pick up a few new tricks. If your still a beginner skater each park also offers lessons and informal workshops to help increase skating skills.

Start a Game of Pokemon Go

This app took the world by storm a few years ago, but recent updates have made the game more fun and more appealing to the younger audience. Walking around to catch little creatures is now more goal oriented and easier to play on your device. Some fun poke-spots are located in lots of family friendly areas, like West Edmonton Mall!

Visit the John Janzen Nature Centre

The John Janzen Nature Centre invites visitors of all ages to come and learn about Edmonton's natural spaces and species inhabiting our city. Families of up to 7 can visit the centre for only $17!

Keep an Eye Out for Free Admission Days at Participating Edmonton Rec Centres

It pays to keep an eye on the City's community calendar. Visit edmonton.ca to see different attractions Free Admission days to some of Edmonton's best attractions, like the Edmonton Valley Zoo, Fort Edmonton Park, The Mutant Conservatory, and more!

Do you have any low budget recommendations for parents looking to fill their Kid's summer hours? Leave your tip in the comments below!