My favorite thing to do in the summer (or anytime) is to travel. Unfortunately, that is not possible every summer, especially when I am taking time off to relax before starting grad school in the fall. But just because we can’t travel doesn’t mean that we can’t have an amazing summer — and on a budget — here at home in Chattanooga. Check out some ideas and tips on making this the most fun summer ever, even on a budget!
Chattanooga Inexpensive or Free Summer Activities
Summer Reading Programs and Storytimes – Learning doesn’t need to stop just because the summer is here! One of the most fun and motivational ways to encourage your children to get their reading in is through summer reading programs.
- Chattanooga Public Library – The Chattanooga Public Library has its “Make. Play. Read. Learn.” with registration open beginning on May 22nd. Participants can pick up a Summer Chatt Pack at any of the library branches and can complete challenges over the summer to receive prizes and a metal! More information on this program can be found on the Chattanooga Public Library website. The Chattanooga Public Library also offers their regular weekly learning and reading programs for all different age groups, including adults!
- Collegedale Public Library – The Collegedale Public Library is having its summer reading program with the theme “Oceans of Possibilities” which officially begins June 1st. Participants read 20 minutes a day for 20 days to receive a free book, end of summer party, and other prizes. You can sign up your children at the library beginning on June 1st using the Beanstack app. More information on this program can be found at the Collegedale Public Library website. The Collegedale Public Library also still offers programs and story times for children of all ages, but sign up is required. More information on the programs can be found on their website.
- Cleveland Public Library – The Cleveland Public Library is offering the READsquared Reading Program which kicks off on June 4 and continues through July 29. You can click here to register. The kick off party is on June 4th from 2pm to 4pm.
- Bradley Square Mall – A great Summer Storytime event that I recently came across is Summer Storytime at the Bradley Square Mall in Cleveland. Every Wednesday at 10:30am beginning June 1st through July 27th there is a different character theme. Every week there is a book reading, live characters, and fun activities as well as the opportunity to win door prizes! You can find more information on the event and schedule of characters on the Bradley Square Mall website.
Vacation Bible Schools (VSB) are a fun way for kids to go on a little summer adventure each morning while staying close to home with a great opportunity to learn about the Bible and make new friends! You can find a list of VBS programs on our website. Most Vacation Bible Schools are for ages 5 and up, but occasionally you can find ones that will take children that are a little younger than that.
Parks – One of the best free activities that any parent can take their kids to and make them instantly happy is going to a park. Chattanooga has no shortage of parks — you can find a list of some great parks on our website!
Pools and Splash Pads – I feel like it isn’t officially summer until we have spent time in the water. Chattanooga doesn’t only have inexpensive options for swimming, but also has several splash pads which you can learn about here. Below is information on local pools!
- Warner Park and City of Chattanooga Pools – The City of Chattanooga has four pools including the Warner Park pool located next to the Chattanooga Zoo. The cost to swim at the Warner Park pool is $3 for adults, $2 for 13 and under, and under 2 years old is free. For information on the hours for the Warner Park pool and the other City of Chattanooga Pools check out this website.
- Hulsey Wellness Center Pools – This is my favorite (I get to go for free because I am a student at Southern!). The Hulsey Wellness Center pools are generally not too crowded and are indoor, so you don’t have to worry about sunscreen! Cost for non-members is $2 or $1 for under age 16, or you can purchase a monthly membership for $25 ($10 additional for up to 3 household members per month). An important side note: Females must wear one-piece swimsuits at Hulsey. More information on the Husley Wellness Center pools can be found here.
- Martha Denton Swimming Pool – The city of Ringgold is just a short drive from Chattanooga, and they have a great pool available for day swimming! The cost is $4 for ages 3 and up, and ages 0 – 2 is free. You can find more information on the pool and its hours on its website.
