Growing up in central Massachusetts, I always loved summer vacation... For the first week. Then, I would go up to my dad, pull on his pant leg and say, long and drawn out "I'm boooorrrrred." He would shoe me away and tell me to go outside or watch TV. There were not many other children in my neighborhood so going outside inevitably got boring and the shows on television were repetitive. Now that I'm a little older with a little bit of money in the bank, I know there are plenty of ways to entertain myself in the summer.
1. Hit up the library.
If you've read every book on your shelf, I definitely recommend trying the library. Most libraries offer a card for free and a small fee if you need another. The library in Charlton offers lots of fun (and mostly free) activities and groups.
2. Public facilities are the best facilities!
I recently started working as a nanny and it's not uncommon for the boys to totally lose interest playing board games and feeding their pet chickens. Today, I took them to Buffumville Resovior to hike and swim. It cost $5 to park. Rutland State Park charges $8 for MA license plates and $10 for cars from out of state.
3. Arts and crafts.
I love, love, love crafts! You can create something really elaborate or super simple and without realizing it, the afternoon will be over. I definitely recommend signing up for emails from places like Michaels. You might not even know you want to make a bird house until pine goes on sale.
4. Geocaching.
Why do I love geocaching? Because it's a cross between crafts and hiking! Geocachers hide small treasures in boxes for a lucky finder, but in order to take whatever's left, you must leave something behind as well. There are tons of websites to check out if you're interested.
5. The Worcester EcoTarium is fun for all ages.
I love this place. It's part zoo, part museum, and part hands on fun! Plus, the indoor part is air conditioned. I definitely recommend this place for children or adults.
6. Mini Golf.
I know, I know. When I think mini golf I usually think Florida. That being said, there are two courses within twenty minutes of my house; Crystal Caves (pictured) in Auburn and Putters Miniature Golf Course in Charlton.
7. Restaurant Hopping.
This one is kind of expensive but totally worth it if you have the chance. Pick a city with a few restaurants. At one, have appetizers and drinks, at another, have a meal (try to keep it light), and at another restaurant have dessert. If necessary, only go to two restaurants. For dessert, I definitely recommend Sweet Desserts in Worcester.
8. SkyZone Westborough.
Need to get some exercise in but also need your daily dose of fun? SkyZone has you covered. They have classes and jump times for specific age groups and tickets start at only $10. What a deal!
9. Take a class.
I know, it's summer. You're out of school and supposed to be enjoying yourself. So why not take a class you're interested in? You'll learn something and depending on what kind of class your taking, might come home with a bowl, some jewelry, or original photographs.
10. Check out Old Sturbridge Village.
If you're from eastern Massachusetts, you probably visited Plymouth Plantation in school. In central Massachusetts, Old Sturbridge Village is more common. But just because you went there as a kid doesn't make it any less fun as an adult.
11. Concerts on the Common.
Almost every community has at least one Concert on the Common. Local bands play hits from previous decades or their own work, trying to get noticed. It's not always the best music, but it's a way to spend an evening. If the band is good, they might even have a few different concerts lined up for the summer.
So there you have it. Eleven ways to entertain yourself this summer. I hope everyone relaxes safely!
