No Spend Fun: Free Family Weekend Plans

Summer fun doesn’t have to come with a big price tag—and sometimes the best memories are made when you don’t spend a dime. Between vacations, treats, and activities, summer expenses can add up fast. That’s why we love planning “no spend weekends” as a way to slow down, save money, and still have a blast. To my kids, it feels like we’re diving into one of those fun “YouTube challenges,” seeing just how creative we can get without opening our wallets. Ready to make the most of your weekend without spending a thing? Here are 10 fun, free ideas your whole family will enjoy!

10 No Spend weekend Ideas:

1. Go on a hike

Exploring the outdoors is a fantastic way to enjoy a no-spend weekend, and Colorado Springs offers numerous family-friendly trails. Here are five great options to consider:

• Red Rock Canyon Open Space – This park features several short trails with gentle elevation gains, making it perfect for families.
• Pulpit Rock Park – A moderately easy hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Colorado Springs from the summit.
• Siamese Twins Trail – Located in Garden of the Gods, this easy 1-mile loop offers stunning views and a unique rock formation that frames Pikes Peak.
• Paint Mines Interpretive Park – A short drive from Colorado Springs, this park offers easy trails through colorful geological formations, providing both fun and educational opportunities for kids.
• Mount Cutler Trail – An easy 1.88-mile roundtrip hike in North Cheyenne Cañon Park, offering beautiful vistas and a manageable trail for families.

2. Take a walk

No spend weekends are a great time to get outside and explore your own neighborhood. One of our favorite ways to make a simple walk more exciting is by turning it into a scavenger hunt. It adds a fun challenge and keeps everyone engaged. Print out the scavenger hunt list below and see how many things you can spot as you walk!

3. Explore your hometown

No spend weekends are the perfect chance to explore your hometown with fresh eyes. Discover new parks, stroll around peaceful ponds to feed the ducks, or wander through old town and enjoy the charm close to home.

4. Watch the sunset

Grab a blanket, head outside, and watch the sunset paint the sky. Whether it’s your backyard or a nearby park, it’s the perfect way to slow down and soak in the beauty of the day.

5. Spend the day at the park

Pack the sunscreen, grab some snacks, and head to your favorite local park for a relaxing day outdoors. It’s the perfect way to soak up the sunshine, enjoy some fresh air, and take it easy without spending a thing. Let the kids play, bring a blanket, and just unwind together.

6. Firepit socials

Gather your friends, light up the fire pit, and enjoy a simple evening together. The kids can play in the backyard while the adults relax and chat. These are our favorite kinds of summer nights during no spend weekends.

7. Plan a picnic

Another favorite no spend weekend activity is planning a simple picnic. We just toss a blanket in the backyard and let the kids plan the lunch. It’s not always healthy, but the memories are totally worth it.

8. Stargazing

For a cozy end to your no spend weekend, grab those blankets and pillows and enjoy a night under the stars. Personally, this is one of my favorites. Once the kids are in bed, you’ll often find me out in the hammock with my Kindle.

9. Backyard camping

Backyard camping is a must on our family summer bucket list! It’s all about fun games, cooking over the grill or fire, and digging out those glow sticks stashed in a closet for a magical night outside.

10. Host a board game night

A no spend weekend is the perfect excuse to host a board game night with family or friends. Pop some popcorn, gather your favorite games, and enjoy some friendly competition while making fun memories together.

Need some new game ideas? No worries here are some family friendly Dice Games, Card Games and Board Games!

Taking on no spend weekends has been such a refreshing shift for me. I’ve found new ways to enjoy time with my family, gotten creative with what we already have, and realized just how much joy can come from simplicity. It’s not about restrictions. It’s about being intentional and making space for what really matters. If you’ve been feeling the pull to save more or just slow down, I can’t recommend a no spend weekends enough. You might be surprised by how rich they can feel.