Budget-Friendly Summer Fun: Culinary, Sporty, and Educational Activities for the Whole Family

Today is the final day of school here at VPS. Our Warriors are celebrating the freedom and fun that summer promises. However, this transition brings new challenges for many parents and guardians: keeping children and teens entertained and off their devices without stretching the family budget. The possibility of unstructured days can be daunting. Without the school routine, kids may quickly become restless, leading to increased screen time and the familiar whine of “I’m bored.” Meanwhile, parents juggle work, household responsibilities, and the pressure to provide meaningful activities. But take heart, with a bit of creativity and planning, summer can be a season of growth, adventure, and quality family time. We will explore various budget-friendly and free activities in and around St. Augustine. From outdoor adventures and historical explorations to arts, culture, and unique educational experiences, there’s something to captivate every age group. Here are some suggestions:

Outdoor Adventures & Beach Fun

• Anastasia State Park: For a modest entrance fee ($8 per vehicle), families can enjoy over 1,600 acres of pristine beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and camping.  

• St. Johns County Ocean Pier: The pier costs a small fee, but the adjacent splash park, playground, and beach are free. It’s an excellent spot for kids to play and families to relax.  

• Vilano Beach: Known for its beautiful sunsets and less crowded shores, it’s a great place for a family picnic or a stroll along the pier.  

• Frank Butler County Park West: This serene beach park offers a peaceful environment, ideal for picnics and watching the sunset without the usual crowds. 

Historical Sites & Educational Experiences

• Fort Matanzas National Monument: Enjoy a free ferry ride to this historic fort, where kids can explore and participate in the Junior Ranger program.  

• Fort Mose Historic State Park: As the site of the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the U.S., it offers a rich history and nature trails. Park admission is free, with a nominal fee for the museum.  

• Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum: Located in the heart of downtown, this museum provides insights into Florida’s colonial history and is free to the public.  

Arts, Culture & Community Events

• First Friday Art Walk: On the first Friday of each month, explore over 25 galleries in downtown St. Augustine, enjoy live music, and meet local artists. Admission is free.  

• St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market: Held every Saturday morning, this market features local produce, crafts, and live entertainment. It’s a lively spot for families to explore.  

• Wednesday Pier Farmers Market: Located near the St. Johns County Ocean Pier, this market offers local goods and often features kid-friendly activities.  

Kid-Friendly Parks & Playgrounds

• Project SWING Playground: Situated near the Visitor’s Center, this expansive wooden playground is designed for various age groups and offers shaded picnic areas.  

• Robert P. Hayling Freedom Park: This park provides open spaces for kite flying, picnics, and scenic views where the Matanzas and San Sebastian rivers meet.  

Unique & Educational Attractions

• Disease Vector Education Center (Mosquito Museum): Operated by the Anastasia Mosquito Control District, this center offers interactive exhibits about mosquitoes and their impact on public health. It’s both educational and engaging for kids.

Active & Sporty Adventures

• Adventure Landing Family Entertainment Center: This venue offers a variety of attractions, including miniature golf, go-karts, and batting cages. They provide affordable multi-attraction wristbands, such as 3 attractions for $24.99 or 5 for $29.99, making it a cost-effective option for families.  

• Stone Climbing: Introduce your children to the thrilling world of rock climbing. Stone Climbing offers summer camps for kids aged 7 to 13, emphasizing fun while teaching essential climbing skills. Stone Climbing is the leading indoor climbing facility in the area. Located at 115 Strongway Court, this gym provides a comprehensive climbing experience suitable for all ages and skill levels. Day Pass: $22 per person. Rental Gear: Available for an additional fee, including climbing shoes, harnesses, and chalk bags.

• Ziplining and Ropes Courses: For thrill-seeking families, local establishments offer ziplining and ropes courses suitable for kids and teens, providing both fun and physical activity.  

Sweet Culinary Adventures

Engage your children’s senses and creativity with these delightful culinary experiences:

• Sweet Pete’s Candy Classes (Jacksonville): Located just under an hour from St. Augustine, Sweet Pete’s offers a variety of interactive candy-making classes suitable for all ages. Children can learn to make gummies, lollipops, taffy, and more. These classes are both educational and fun, providing a hands-on experience in the art of candy making.  

• Whetstone Chocolates Tasting Tour (St. Augustine): Discover the rich history of chocolate with a guided tour at Whetstone Chocolates. Participants will learn about the chocolate-making process and enjoy a four-tiered tasting of chocolates and confections. It is an informative and delicious experience for the whole family.  

• Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops (St. Augustine): Treat your taste buds to handcrafted ice pops made from fresh fruits and unique flavor combinations. Hyppo offers a refreshing break from the summer heat and a chance to explore new tastes.  

Here are just a few ideas, but with some searching, you'll discover plenty more options for your family. You can also consider our VPS Summer Camp, a Christian-based summer camp designed for children five and older. Our camp includes in-house and local field trips to exciting destinations like Bravo’s, Main Event, Diamond D Ranch, Skate Station, MOSH, Chuck E. Cheese, arts and crafts, science experiments, sports, and a week of Vacation Bible School. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. There are numerous options to help you maximize your summer break. Memorable experiences await you, your children, and teens while keeping costs low. Have a blessed summer filled with fun, Warriors!