9 Wholesome Weekend Activities That Won’t Drain Your Bank Account

The best things in life are (basically) free.

Let’s put one thing on the record – being in money-saving mode doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a weekend out of the house.

And while it can sometimes feel like fun simply isn’t on the menu if cost is a concern, the reality is, there are plenty of fun things to do in your free time that won’t break the bank.

Want to unwind without blowing the budget? From picnics to hitting the beach, here are nine wholesome weekend activities that barely cost a thing.

1. Explore a national park

Love the great outdoors? Play tourist in your own state and head to a nearby national park for a day in nature. While some charge a small fee for parking and entry, many are also free, making for a delightfully cheap day out. Different parks offer different perks, from view-worthy hikes to kayaking and secluded beaches, so do your research to find one that suits your preferences and fitness level and you’re sure to have a great time.

2. Go to a museum or gallery

Soak in some culture and meander through a free exhibition at your local museum or gallery. Particularly ideal if you prefer to stay indoors, many galleries offer complimentary entry to see a number of collections, talks and screenings, so there’s always something new and interesting to while the hours away without emptying the wallet.

3. Check out a local market

From foodies seeking gourmet goodness to aesthetes after emerging artists and beyond – there are weekend markets to suit a myriad of tastes. Free to enter with much to enjoy, stroll through with friends, coffee in hand, and enjoy a morning of sampling the freshest artisanal treats or trawling through vintage treasures while also supporting local businesses. Win-win.

4. Have a picnic

Pick a scenic spot and gather the group chat in real life for a leisurely picnic. Whether in the park, by the beach or even in your own backyard, the best part about preparing a picnic is that it can be as quaint or as elaborate as you like. Whether you opt for a decadent cheeseboard and a selection of wines or keep it low-key with some old-school chips and dips, it’s the perfect way to spend a day without spending much money.

Shop our picks for the perfect picnic day out.

5. Join a community fitness class

Craving some movement? Consider joining a free community fitness class. Often held in central or beautiful locations – like Sydney’s Yoga under the Bridge – you’d likely be surprised at the number of free and fun workouts you’ll find in your city after a quick search online.

6. Enjoy a walking trail

Step out and spend a few hours in the fresh air via a picturesque walking trail. Besides being free and a sneaky form of exercise, it’s also a fun way to explore your own city. Go with a group of friends or set out solo and enjoy the peace (or a good true crime podcast) as you take in the sights and get your steps in.

7. Hit the beach

If you’re lucky enough to live a drive away from a good beach, make the most of it with a slow day on the sand. Just download some juicy podcasts and throw the essentials in your tote – sunscreen, towel, water, podcasts and a delicious page-turner – and you’re good to go.

8. Listen to live music

Think live music and shows have to cost a bundle? Think again. You would be surprised at how many free shows you’ll find with a little Googling. Often featuring up-and-coming local acts, you’re almost guaranteed to find something that tickles your fancy while also being fancy-free. For those who love the supper club concept and don’t mind paying a small fee to support rising musicians, there’s Sofar Sounds, which sees emerging artists play in intimate spaces – including people’s homes – with the venue only revealed the day before the show.

9. Visit the state library

Yes, it’s old school, and no, it’s not just for book lovers – like most galleries, state libraries tend to offer a plethora of free exhibitions and spaces to take in some culture. Of course, if you are just after a change of scene and a great read, there’s no going wrong, even when the weather is not on your side.