City Girl and Hot Boy Summer has officially begun. On that note, it’s time to hop in the group chat, and begin making turn-up plans with the crew. If you and your homies are looking for something to do other than everyone’s favorite go-to brunch and booze, then we have just what you need. It’s time to enjoy your summer without breaking the bank. Here are 10 cost-effective summer activities for you and the squad to enjoy!

1. Watch Movies In The Park

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From classic black-and-whites to nostalgic family favorites, enjoying a movie in the park is always a great idea, especially during the summer months. Pack some snacks, bring a lawn chair or blanket, and get your movie-loving friends together for an afternoon of free films and fun. Many cities offer this feature. Check with your local park district to see what's available in your town.

2. Catch A Comedy Show

Nothing says summertime joy like a night of laughter. Why not hit up your local laugh factory for some comedic relief? Make it an all-girls, all-guys or mixed company night. No matter who joins, be prepared to laugh so hard that you cry.

3. Scope Out Local Food And Arts Festivals

You can’t go wrong with a festival in your city. Whether it’s a local brew fest, “taste” of your town or major attraction — like Afropunk — going out to community events gets the job done. In the summer, local celebrations can surely pass the time while providing affordable worthwhile experiences for everyone.

4. Take Advantage Of Free Zoo And Museum Days

Unleash your inner child with a trip to the museum, aquarium or zoo. Take some kids or your BFF, and explore the latest exhibits that embodied your elementary years. Most major cities offer free or discounted zoo and museum days, so take advantage.

5. Spend A Day At The Amusement Park

If you want some thrill in the middle of your routine, a day trip to the amusement park will do the trick. Great America, Cedar Point, Coney Island, Mall of America and Kalahari are great options, to name a few.

6. Embark On A Bar Crawl

Grab your favorite drinking buddies, make a list of your favorite pubs, and hop around to as many bars as your legs and liver can stand. A bar crawl is simply going from one drinking spot to the next, but the fun part is who you do it with. What’s even better is that you can customize the experience to suit your desires. Spice up this common drinking activity with your own themes: by location or by bar name. The options are endless, and sometimes so are the libations. Cheers!

7. Attend A Concert

Whether it’s a local artist or Beyoncé, attending a summer concert with your besties is a surefire way to have a great time for a low cost, if you can sacrifice those front row seats. Enjoy moments of loud singing, fanning out, nostalgic performances and tons of photo-ops, as you and your homies vibe out to some of your favorite music.

8. Go To The Beach

Let’s be honest, going to the beach is always a good move. You and the gang can pack a cooler full of your favorite drinks, bring some umbrellas and sunscreen, and maybe set up a small grill while you camp out on the lake or by the ocean!

9. Create A Scavenger Hunt

Challenge your creativity by developing your own scavenger hunt. You can make it as serious or as silly as you’d like, offering a grand prize or just doing it for kicks. Either way, this joining of forces is a super fun way to break free of your usual hangout pattern and see the city at the same damn time.

10. Host Game Night

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Who said you have to go out to have a good time? Hosting a game night at your spot — or whoever has the biggest space — allows you and your squad to make your own fun and rules in a safe, comfortable environment. You can play video games like Call of Duty, NBA 2k Live and Super Mario Bros. or do it the old school way with Spades, Jenga and Taboo!

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