Free (or really cheap) Entertainment

Farmer's Markets

Farmer's Markets are an excellent place to get fresh, locally grown fruits, veggies, honey, and lots of hand-made things. Flint has one that is open year-round, and Lucas and I often go there just to browse the aisles, and get a sweet treat.

You can find a Farmer's Market near you, and start shopping today!

Visit a Park

There are many Parks in the Grand Blanc Area that Lucas and I like to visit on nice days. Some of them, like Physician's Park, are small and have toddler-friendly swings, slides, and play areas. 

Bicentennial Park offers a Splash Pad during the summer, where for $4, your child can play the day away on a waterpark-like playground.

Mall Play Yards

Some malls have awesome play yards for children. The Genesee Valley Mall has a great little place for Toddlers to play, and isn't very busy during the daytime.

Plus, I can load Lucas up in the stroller or ERGObaby and get some exercise by walking around the mall. Sometimes we share a soft pretzel and a lemonade from Auntie Annie's.

Go to a Robotics Competition!

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, I know. But Robotics is pretty awesome. There are events practically year-round, which can be found on FIRST in Michigan's website. From outdoor competitions at Oakland University, to Kettering Kickoff in September, there's sure to be something near you.

There's tons of stuff for grown-ups and kids there, and aside from food, everything is absolutely free! And don't forget your Safety Glasses!

Visit a local Pet Store

Lucas LOVES animals (have I mentioned this?!), but since we live in an apartment, our options for a pet are extremely limited.

So I oftentimes take Lucas to our local pet store to look at the animals, or use it as a reward for being a "good boy". We've even met friends at places such as Preuss Pets in Lansing for an afternoon of fun. 

If you have older kids, you can volunteer at an animal shelter, or even volunteer to be a foster home for dogs and cats.

Attend Church Special Events

Each Easter, my Husband's family's Church olds a petting Zoo. We decided to take Lucas this year, and he loved it! Many churches also hold fall festivals and Vacation Bible School. Even if you're not sure when (or if!) you want to expose your child to religion, these activities are a fun and easy way to spend some quality time together as a family.