How to Save Money on Entertainment and Still Have Fun!

In this shaky economic climate, many Americans are feeling strapped for spare cash to spend on entertainment. With a little creativity and ingenuity, fun can be found at a discount; here are some money saving tips for you to consider.

Entertainment Books

Charitable organizations and schools sell these thick books full of money saving coupons for local businesses, including restaurants, amusement parks and other interesting destinations. Don’t feel shy about using the coupons--that’s what they are there for! And speaking of amusement parks and other big attractions (such as zoos, aquariums, museums and the like), when planning your next visit, be on the lookout for available ‘twilight’ discounts. These usually allow admittance only during limited hours, which can be a plus if you have small children or if you didn’t plan on spending the entire day there anyway. Here are some other low cost ways to have fun.

Alternatives to Pricey Multiplexes

Did you know that your local library loans out DVDs for free? Another option, if you have one in your town, are old fashioned drive-in theaters… how long has it been since you have enjoyed a movie outdoors or in the comfort of your own vehicle? On warm evenings it’s a pleasure to sit outside on a comfy lawn chair. Or bring blankets and pillows to make the car extra cozy. Another money-saving plus is that you can bring your own snacks from home, or maybe grab a pizza or treats from your favorite takeout on the way in? Finally, if you prefer to watch your movies in the comfort of a movie theater, don’t forget to check to see what kinds of discounts might be available… examples include lower-cost matinee performances, and reduced prices for seniors and kids.

Cultural Pursuits

If you are an avid reader, bookstores can provide endless hours of entertainment. Bigger stores with coffee counters and comfortable seating are a plus; they are there to indicate that you are welcome to hang out and read the merchandise, guilt free. Just don’t forget to tip your humble barista. Another way to gain knowledge while having fun is to enroll in a class at your local community college or adult learning facility. This is a neat and easy approach to explore something you’ve always wanted to try, while meeting new people in your community.

Beautiful Things

Galleries and colleges oftentimes present free art exhibitions to the public; you may see something totally bizarre, or quite possibly preview a great work by the next important artist in your town. Any way you look at it, a work of art rarely fails to spark some interesting conversation with whomever you attend with. 

Another excellent way to support artists in your area, while expanding your horizons, is to purchase low cost tickets to local theatrical productions. Many colleges, high schools and community theaters present musicals and dramatic productions for a quite reasonable price. If you prefer your productions top-notch and first-rate, larger theaters sometimes offer last minute ‘rush tickets’ the day of the show.

Love music, poetry or comedy? 

Neighborhood coffeehouses provide free entertainment from local bands, poets and stand up comedians. Or maybe you might like to try an ‘open mic’ night? You just might luck out with a great show, but if you don’t, no worries; you will have plenty to laugh (or cry about) all the way home. Wherever you might reside, chances are there a local bands representing all genres of music that would love for you to come and check them out. Take a look at the Craigslist or MySpace websites to find some intriguing new music near you.

Window Shopping

Not everyone might agree, but shopping can be entertaining. Even if you don’t purchase anything, it’s fun to browse local shopping centers, indoors or outdoors, and take a stroll, window shop, grab a snack and people watch. Flea markets and swap meets are a marvelous way to get out and walk around while looking at treasures, old and new. It can be quite enjoyable to find a bargain or maybe a special item for that hard-to-please gift recipient in your life? If your taste leans more toward sporting events, check out your local college or high school for discounted tickets for team sports. 

Finally, you might be strapped financially, but that doesn’t mean you can’t daydream. Plan your dream vacation; it might take a while to get there, but just thinking about your destination might be the incentive you need to start saving. Oftentimes the best lodging rates can be found by booking directly with hotel websites; internet-only rates are usually nonrefundable, but can offer significant savings. If you are a member of an Automobile club or other nonprofit organization, present your card at check-in for even more savings.

These are just a few ideas, but you can certainly think of many more ways to save money on entertainment each month.