Inexpensive Summer Events

It’s vacation time but if you’re trying to keep up with the Jones’, be prepared to dish out the dough this year. In a summer travel survey conducted by American Express last year, respondents revealed that they expected to spend around $1,180 per person for their summer vacation trip.  If this year is on par with 2012, that’s almost $5,000 for a family of four.

The good news is you don’t have to break your budget to enjoy the summer with your family. There are many affordable “staycation” opportunities in Michigan.

Here are some ways to vacation locally this summer:

Tremendous Tuesdays in Novi: Fuerst Park is hosting a number of free kid entertainment events throughout July.  Events happen weekly at 10:30 a.m. Visit the City of Novi website for a schedule and more information.

Maybury Farm in Northville:  Maybury Farm makes for a fun, educational excursion which includes viewing the new baby animals, walking hiking trails, playing on a farm-themed playground. General admission is $2.50.

Penn Theatre Summer Cinema Matinee Series:  See the classics at this $3 summer movie series sponsored by Community Financial.  The Muppet Movie, ET, and The Sound of Music are among the timeless movies that can be seen on Thursdays at 1p.m. & 7 p.m.  For a complete list of movies and show times, visit the Penn Theatre website.

Gaylord Alpenfest: The rides cost a little extra, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had at the 49^th incarnation of the popular northern Michigan festival. Among the offerings are free concerts and events for kids, free food, and free entertainment and family-style fun. See www.alpenfest.com for details.

If you’re an outdoorsman, try fishing at Huron Metro Parks or on one of the many small lakes in the Gaylord area.  Biking is a great way to get out of the house and burn some calories. There are quite a few major bike trails in Michigan.  

Enjoy summer in Michigan this year but don’t give up on your dream vacation altogether.  Open a Goal Setter Savings account and start saving for your fabulous getaway today.