Families share ideas for low-cost fun

Even when families aren't feeling the pinch, saving money is a good idea.

Our savvy readers agree, and they've shared with us their best tips and strategies for getting the most fun at the lowest cost. Besides taking advantage of local libraries — which often offer DVDs, children's programs and museum passes as well as books — readers suggested these creative ways to turn a day close to home into an adventure.

See how it's made

We take behind-the-scenes tours of local businesses. They are almost always free, and they're educational (don't tell the kids!). To find them, I ask employees at businesses we frequent if they offer tours, look through our state's tourism magazine, and do some searching online. So far, our family has toured a candy factory, a working farm, a grocery store, a fire station, two different beverage companies and a recycling plant. We love learning how a particular business began and how they do what they do.

We especially enjoy the food-related tours, which almost always end with samples. (Editor's note: To start your search for local tours, try factorytours usa.com.)

— Tracey Derheim, Loveland, Colo.

Become park explorers

I have two boys, 4 and 6 years old, and they enjoy being active. We like to go on park hunts. We'll jump in the car, travel to another neighborhood and find a new public park to explore. Each one in our city seems to have a different mix of playground equipment to try out. The boys love it. And when we find a really great park, we sometimes bring a few friends on our next visit to share our find with.

— Lezli Kuntze, Barrie, Ontario

Take a frugal challenge

Sometimes, I'll just say to my family, "Let's see what we can do with a $10 bill." For instance, last fall we visited a farm, where we bought feed for the animals, enjoyed pumpkin doughnuts and hot chocolate, and picked a bag of peaches. The boys, ages 2 and 7, chased chickens and played in a big sand pit. We ended up with change left over!

— Cheri Brimhall, Winchendon, Mass.

Track hidden treasure