Family Fun Doesn't Have to Put You in the Poor House

Don’t let the sour economy get you down, be sure to check out all of the free, or inexpensive, things you can do with your kids, or that kids can do alone. This week, Patch searched for fun, kid-friendly activities to do as a family, and as always we looked for stuff you could do on a budget.

Most of them are free and only require registration. However, many activities require parent supervision. So bring the family and discover these activities the whole family, and your wallet, will love.

1.

Deal: Enjoy a game, or more, of bowling during Friday KidTime at Clayton Valley Bowl. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., it is just $8 per bowler with shoe rental included.

The Fine Print: Only available at the dates and times listed above.

Extra, Extra: “Mom-approved” videos play during the two hours of kid’s bowling time.

Good through: Ongoing.

2.

Deal: Spend a night at the movies a little differently and hit up the Solano Drive-In. The drive-in offers family specials on Tuesdays with kid’s tickets—for children age 5 to 11—for $1 each and adult tickets for $4.75 each.

The Fine Print: Special pricing available on Tuesday Family Fun Night only.

Good through: Ongoing.

3.

Deal: Plan a party at Q-Zar and save big with their special party packages. Get a 10-person party package for $219, including three games of laser tag, 40 video game tokens, two large pizzas, soda, utensils, 10 birthday invitations, exclusive use of the party room for 45-minutes and a free T-shirt for the birthday boy or girl. Get the same package with one game of laser tag for $139.

The Fine Print: Only available Monday thru Thursday. Party package is available for a higher price on the weekends.

Extra, Extra: Not planning a party? Hit up Q-Zar and receive 20 games of laser tag for $75.

Good Through: Ongoing.

4.

Deal: Have a Mommy and Me Day and spend the day shopping at Justice. Pick up tank tops for $8.90 each when you buy two or more or load up on socks while they are buy two, get one free.

The Fine Print: No coupon required. All items are on sale.

Extra, Extra: Pick up graphic tees and leggings while you’re in, only $14.90 each when you buy two or more.

Good through: Ongoing. While sale lasts.

5.

Deal: Head to the Jungle and save money by going during the week! Get unlimited play for $7.95 Monday through Friday all day for children ages 3 to 12. Toddlers, age 1 to 2, play for $5.95. Parents always play free.

The Fine Print: Must make a reservation for a group of more than 12 two weeks in advance to receive the full discount. A $7 parking fee does apply.

Extra, Extra: Children ages 13 to 17 are welcome to come as part of a group as long as a younger child and adult chaperone are present. Cost is $5 per person and includes 20 tokens.

Good through: Ongoing.