40 Cheap Activities to Do with Friends: Fun, Affordable Ideas

Looking for ways to have fun with friends without spending a lot of money? Look no further! Here are cheap activities to do with friends that are both budget-friendly and entertaining. From game nights to outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty of ideas to make memories together.

Host a Game Night

There’s something timeless about gathering around a table with friends for a game night. Whether you’re into classic board games or the latest card games, the key is to mix it up and keep everyone engaged. Games like ‘Exploding Kittens’ are easy to learn and have quick rounds, making them perfect for a casual gathering. For a more adult-themed evening, ‘Cards Against Humanity’ is always a hit with its fill-in-the-blank style of humor. And if your friends are meme enthusiasts, ‘What Do You Meme?’ offers endless laughs as you create hilarious memes from caption cards.

A mix of board and card games offers diverse entertainment for all. Classics like Clue, Sorry, and Scrabble bring nostalgia, while interactive games like ‘The Voting Game’ ignite friendly competition and laughs.

Game night is about more than just games; it’s about relaxation, fun, and enjoying each other’s company. Gather snacks, set up a cozy space, and start the fun!

Plan a Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a fantastic way to turn a regular day into an exciting adventure. Design clues that lead participants to different locations or require them to complete challenges, making it a fun way to explore new areas or rediscover familiar ones. You can organize a scavenger hunt in parks, botanical gardens, or even around your neighborhood, adding an element of surprise and exploration to the activity.

A scavenger hunt merges the excitement of a treasure hunt with competitive joy, perfect for bonding over shared goals. Its flexibility caters to all group sizes and interests.

Visit a Local Park

Local parks offer a myriad of activities that are both fun and affordable. Here are some options to consider:

• Having a picnic with homemade snacks
• Playing frisbee
• Sunbathing
• Classic outdoor games like dodgeball and capture the flag
• Playing tennis (if your local park has courts, you might be able to play for a small fee)

The options are endless, and these activities can add a dose of excitement to your day out.

Local parks offer the chance to enjoy the outdoors and bond through shared activities. Whether reading, playing games, or chatting, parks provide a relaxed setting for quality time.

So, pack a picnic, grab a frisbee, and head to your local park for a day filled with fun activities and memorable moments.

Attend Free Concerts

Enjoying live music doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Cities often host free concerts in parks and community centers, featuring diverse music genres. These events provide a night out without spending much, offering great entertainment on a budget.

Local calendars and social media groups often list upcoming free music events, so you can stay informed and plan your outings accordingly. Attending free concerts is not only a fun activity but also a wonderful way to support local talent and experience the vibrant culture of your community.

Start a Book Club

A book club blends a love for reading with social interaction, motivating members to read and discuss shared interests. Use online resources to find or create a book club community easily.

Keep costs low by renting books from the library or buying secondhand. Regular meetings, monthly or bi-monthly, maintain engagement. A group size of 8 to 16 encourages effective discussions and diverse viewpoints.

Engage members by allowing them to vote on book selections and meeting schedules. Consider a variety of meeting locations, including homes, public spaces, or online platforms, to keep things interesting. A book club is more than just reading; it’s about building a community and sharing a passion for literature.

Movie Marathon Night

A movie marathon night is perfect for enjoying a movie night with friends at home. Select a theme—be it a genre, film series, or favorites—to make the experience cohesive and enjoyable.

Ensure there is enough space and comfort for guests by providing pillows, blankets, and dimmed lights to replicate a theater atmosphere. Stock up on snacks like popcorn and drinks, and consider providing a real meal if the marathon lasts more than six hours.

Schedule breaks between movies for socializing and stretching, making the event more enjoyable for everyone. A well-planned movie marathon can turn a regular night into a memorable experience.

Go Thrift Shopping

Thrift shopping is a fun activity that combines the thrill of a treasure hunt with the joy of finding unique items. Each visit to a thrift store can lead to unexpected and delightful discoveries, making it an adventure every time. Shopping at thrift stores allows you to express your personal style without the high cost of retail items, making it a practical choice for affordable fashion.

Thrift shopping with friends strengthens bonds through shared experiences and treasure hunts. Add fun by setting challenges or specific items to find. It’s a great way to save money and enjoy quality time together while discovering cheap things.

Have a Potluck Dinner

A potluck dinner party gathers friends for a meal without the host doing all the cooking. Each guest brings a dish, creating a diverse and delicious spread, saving money and showcasing culinary skills.

Gathering for fun activities like movie nights or potluck dinners can be a great way to enjoy time with friends on a budget. Try out a new recipe to impress your friends and add a unique twist to the meal. A potluck dinner is more than just sharing food; it’s about creating memories and enjoying each other’s company.

Stargazing

Stargazing offers a magical way to spend time with friends. Venture away from city lights for a clear night sky, gather blankets and a telescope, and enjoy identifying constellations and marveling at the stars.

This activity offers a peaceful and reflective experience, allowing you to unwind and connect with the natural world. It’s a perfect way to spend a few hours under the stars, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore Local Museums and Art Galleries

Local museums and many museums art galleries offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy art and culture. Many institutions have free entry days or reduced fees. Check local listings for free admission days.

Some museums provide free admission to military personnel and their families at all times. Art galleries often hold evening hours with no admission fees for local residents.

Visiting these cultural venues is not only educational but also a great way to spend time with friends and explore new interests.

DIY Spa Day

A DIY spa day lets you and your friends pamper yourselves without the expense of a professional spa. Set the mood with calming music, scented candles, and soft lighting. Gather towels, Epsom salts, and favorite skincare products for a complete experience.

Try out DIY treatments, such as homemade scrubs and facials, to elevate your spa day without significant expense. A warm bath with added ingredients like bubble bath or bath bombs can provide a soothing start to your relaxation session.

A DIY spa day is not only a fun activity but also a wonderful way to enjoy quality time with friends.

Karaoke Night

Karaoke night is fun and affordable, easily set up at home using YouTube for instrumental tracks. Connect a smart TV or computer and a microphone. While YouTube ads can interrupt, it’s still an inexpensive way to enjoy karaoke.

For a better karaoke experience, consider using alternative apps like Singa or Smule, which offer a wider song selection and specialized features.

Karaoke night is a fantastic way to enjoy live music, have a good laugh, and bond with friends over shared performances.

Bike Ride Adventure

A bike ride adventure lets you explore scenic areas and stay active. Pack lunch, water, and helmets for a safe, exciting journey. Stay open to unplanned routes for added excitement.

Incorporate fun activities like setting up a bike wash on hot days or creating obstacle courses using cones to make the ride more engaging. You can even turn your bike ride into a treasure hunt by incorporating Pokémon Go, adding an element of competitive fun.

A bike ride adventure is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors and bond with friends over shared experiences.

Volunteer Together

Volunteering together is fulfilling and strengthens friendships while giving back to the community. Contact local charities for opportunities that match your group’s interests, like crafting letters for military personnel or helping at music festivals.

Volunteering at an animal shelter or donating blood are also excellent group activities that create lasting memories and strengthen friendships. By volunteering together, you contribute to a good cause and enjoy the satisfaction of making a positive impact.

Picnic in the Park

A picnic in the park is a delightful way to enjoy the outdoors with friends. Just bring a blanket, snacks, and maybe a portable speaker for music. Choosing a scenic location, like a lake or beach, enhances the experience.

Homemade drinks like lemonade or iced tea are refreshing and perfect for outdoor gatherings, and encouraging guests to assemble their own sandwiches can make the meal interactive and fun. Choosing a theme for the picnic can make it even more enjoyable and memorable.

A picnic in the park is a wonderful way to enjoy fun activities and quality time with friends.

Learn a New Skill

Learning a new skill together is fun and rewarding. Use free apps to pick up a new language, practice together, and stay motivated. Learning with a partner makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Explore other skills such as cooking, painting, or playing a musical instrument. The possibilities are endless, and the shared experience of learning something new can deepen your friendships and create lasting memories.

Host a Clothing Swap

A clothing swap is a fun, sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe at no cost. Invite friends to bring items they no longer wear, like sweaters or pants that no longer fit.

Set a theme for the swap to enhance the quality of contributions and make the event more engaging. Hosting a clothing swap is not only a great way to get new clothes but also a fun activity that promotes sustainability and strengthens friendships.

Attend Stand-Up Comedy Shows

Stand-up comedy shows offer a night of laughter and strengthen friendships. Many venues host free stand-up nights, allowing you to enjoy an evening out without spending much. Some bars and restaurants include free comedy shows in their entertainment lineup.

Discounted tickets for comedy shows can often be found on event platforms or local listings. Online platforms like Eventbrite and Meetup frequently list free stand-up comedy events.

A good laugh is guaranteed, making it a perfect fun thing for a fun night out with friends.

Visit the Farmers Market

A visit to the farmers market lets you enjoy and support the local community. The lively atmosphere fosters social interaction, making it a fun outing with friends.

At the farmers market, you can find an array of fresh produce, homemade goods, and crafts that reflect the local culture. Sampling cheap food, delicious foods from different vendors is one of the highlights of visiting a farmers market, making it a delightful experience.

Camping Trip

A camping trip lets you enjoy the great outdoors with friends. Pack essentials like a tent and sleeping bag, and set up a cozy campsite. Sharing gear or buying together makes it an affordable adventure.

Borrowing camping gear from friends or purchasing second-hand equipment can help reduce initial costs. Planning simple meals while camping saves money and simplifies cooking.

A camping trip is a perfect way to bond with friends, enjoy quality time, and create lasting memories.

Craft Night

Craft nights offer a fun and creative way to spend time with friends. Activities include:

• Painting canvases
• Making friendship bracelets
• Tie-dyeing shirts
• Making custom greeting cards
• Upcycling materials, promoting sustainability and saving money.

Creating scrapbook pages is a fun way to preserve memories while crafting together. Themed craft nights, such as seasonal or holiday-themed projects, can enhance the experience and make it even more enjoyable.

Craft nights are not only a fun activity but also a great way to bond with friends over shared creativity.

Play Sports

Playing sports keeps you active and having fun with friends. Joining a local amateur league is a great way to meet people and stay physically active. Casual games like soccer and basketball foster teamwork and build friendships.

Many parks have designated areas for sports, often available for free or with minimal fees, making it easy to organize a game. Joining community fun runs or walks as a group supports charitable causes while fostering camaraderie.

Playing sports is a fun way to spend time with friends and enjoy the benefits of physical activity.

Geocaching

Geocaching is a GPS-based treasure hunt, making it an exciting adventure with friends. Use GPS technology to locate hidden treasures and explore new areas.

Geocaching offers a fun way to combine biking with a treasure hunt experience, encouraging exploration and adventure. After finding a geocache, it’s important to log the discovery date and leave something behind as a token of your visit. The main cost associated with geocaching is gas to reach the locations, making it an affordable and thrilling activity.

Attend Open Mic Nights

Open mic nights showcase local talent, giving friends a chance to support their community. Enjoy diverse performances like music, poetry, and stand-up comedy, making for an engaging experience.

Many venues, such as local bars and comedy clubs, host open mic nights, often at little to no cost. These events foster community involvement and encourage audience participation, enhancing the overall experience. Open mic nights are a fun and affordable way to enjoy live performances and support local artists.

Cook Together

Cooking together is a fun, creative way to bond over a meal. A cooking theme can boost creativity and enjoyment. Split the shopping list among friends to save costs and make it more collaborative.

Host a cooking contest or try out new recipes together, such as crab rangoon dip or jambalaya-stuffed peppers. Many farmers markets offer cooking demonstrations and tips from local producers, enhancing the shopping experience with practical culinary advice.

Cooking together is a fun way to explore new dishes and enjoy quality time with friends.

Bird Watching

Bird watching is peaceful and rewarding, needing just binoculars and a passion for birds. A field guidebook helps identify different species, making the experience educational.

Patience and quietness are essential when bird watching, as sudden movements can scare birds away. Finding a comfortable spot to sit and observe can significantly increase your chances of spotting various bird species.

Bird watching is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy a relaxing day outdoors with friends.

Write Letters to Future Selves

Writing letters to your future selves is thoughtful and reflective, strengthening friendships. Exchanging letters for safekeeping enhances camaraderie and trust.

Revisiting these letters years later can provide a nostalgic glimpse into past thoughts and dreams, making it a meaningful and memorable experience. Writing letters to your future selves is a unique way to reflect on your current life and aspirations.

Join a Painting Class

Joining a painting class with friends is an affordable way to create art and share experiences. Many community centers and public libraries offer free or low-cost painting classes, ideal for budget-friendly activities.

Online platforms frequently host affordable virtual painting classes, allowing friends to join from home. Local art studios might provide group discounts for friends who sign up for painting workshops together.

Fire Pit Gathering

Gather around a fire pit for a cozy atmosphere and warmth. Enjoy fun activities like telling ghost stories, toasting marshmallows, and cooking over the fire. Hosting a s’mores party adds a delicious, interactive element.

A fire pit gathering creates lasting memories with friends while combining good food and engaging conversations. Transforming your fire pit gathering into a wine tasting event offers a unique and elegant experience for friends.

A fire pit gathering is a perfect way to enjoy a cozy night with friends.

Explore Your City

Exploring your city lets you discover new places and experiences with friends. Window shop in a nearby small town or explore a few different locations like parks and neighborhoods.

Take a train to a random destination and explore the area for a fun adventure. Exploring your city is a fun activity that allows you to see familiar places in a new light and create unforgettable memories with friends.

Attend Local Events

Local events provide fun activities and allow you to support your community in the local area. These often include craft fairs, food festivals, and charity runs, typically at low or no cost, including free events.

Many towns host seasonal festivals that celebrate local culture, offering free activities and entertainment for attendees. Types of free local events include trivia nights, live music, and community events. Keeping an eye on local event calendars is a great way to find affordable activities to enjoy with friends.

Go Hiking

Hiking with friends is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. Many parks offer trails that let you explore nature and take in breathtaking scenery.

It’s essential to pack a backpack with a snack for the halfway point, carry a phone, and plenty of water when hiking. Prior to heading out, plan the hike, check fire warnings and the weather forecast. Basic requirements for hiking include a water bottle and decent hiking boots or sneakers.

Hiking is a fun way to spend time with friends and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Host a Photo Shoot

A photo shoot is a fun, creative way to capture memories with friends. Choose a theme, like retro or boho, and dress accordingly. Use props to make the photos more engaging and memorable.

Experimenting with different poses and angles can result in a variety of fun and candid shots. Hosting a photo shoot is a great way to create a photo album filled with unique and cherished memories.

Visit Botanical Gardens

Botanical gardens offer a peaceful and educational way to enjoy nature. Many have free or reduced admission, making them affordable. Friends with a green thumb can take leisurely walks, learn about plants, and capture beautiful photos.

Art installations and sculptures can often be found throughout botanical gardens, enhancing the experience of visitors. Spending time at a botanical garden provides a unique blend of nature, art, and companionship, perfect for a memorable day out.

Participate in Amateur Sports Leagues

Amateur sports leagues offer a fun and competitive way to play sports with friends. Joining a league or college intramural activities allows for friendly competition with less pressure.

Playing sports can significantly decrease stress and anxiety levels due to endorphin release, improving overall well-being. Involvement in team sports fosters social connections and a sense of community among participants.

Joining an amateur sports league is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy the benefits of physical activity.

Ghost Stories Night

A ghost stories night provides a thrilling, spooky evening with friends. Props like candles or flashlights intensify the experience. Themed decor can elevate the ambiance, making it more immersive.

Consider incorporating a hot chocolate station to keep the group warm and cozy during the night. Playing spooky games can enhance the ghost story experience, making it a fun and memorable night.

Make a Time Capsule

Creating a time capsule is nostalgic and strengthens friendships through collaboration. Involve everyone in selecting meaningful items to include.

Choosing a location for burying the time capsule is essential; it should be a spot meaningful to the group. Setting a specific date to open the time capsule adds excitement and anticipation for the friends involved. Making a time capsule is a unique way to capture the present and create something special for the future.

Try Out TikTok Dances

TikTok dances offer a fun, energetic activity for friends of all skill levels. Many dances are easy to learn and can be adapted, making it inclusive for everyone.

Filming dance performances can provide memorable content for social media, allowing you to share your fun moments with a wider audience. Recording dance performances can create memorable and shareable content, making it a fun and engaging activity for friends.

Plan a Dessert Crawl

Planning a dessert crawl is an enjoyable way to explore multiple dessert shops in one outing. Participants can sample a variety of sweet treats, making it a delightful experience.

Dessert crawls can be tailored to include different types of desserts, such as cakes, pastries, and ice cream, ensuring there’s something for everyone. A dessert crawl is a fun and tasty way to spend time with friends and discover new favorite treats.

Host a PowerPoint Party

Hosting a PowerPoint party is a creative and engaging way to spend time with friends. Each friend prepares a brief presentation on a fun topic, generating laughter and engagement throughout the night.

Presentations are typically brief, aiming for 3-10 minutes to keep the atmosphere lively. Hosts can suggest themes for the night, enhancing the fun and participation among attendees.

Using various presentation tools like Google Slides or Canva is encouraged, allowing flexibility for participants. A PowerPoint party is a unique and enjoyable way to share knowledge and have a blast with friends.

Conclusion

Spending quality time with friends doesn't need to cost a fortune. Whether it's a fun game night, a visit to a local museum, or a DIY spa day at home, the best moments are often the simplest. Embrace these budget-friendly activities to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories without the stress of overspending. Gather your friends, enjoy the moment, and make memories that are priceless.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make a Game Night More Engaging for Everyone?

To make your game night more engaging, try mixing up board games and card games that encourage interaction, like 'Exploding Kittens' or 'The Voting Game.' It’ll keep everyone laughing and having a blast!

What Are Some Tips for Planning a Successful Scavenger Hunt?

To plan a successful scavenger hunt, create engaging clues that guide participants to various locations or tasks. Choosing a fun setting like a park can really amp up the adventure!

How Can I Find Free Concerts in My Area?

You can easily find free concerts by checking local event calendars and social media groups. Parks and community centers often host these events, so it's worth keeping an eye out!

What Are Some Affordable Ways to Host a DIY Spa Day at Home?

You can easily set up an affordable DIY spa day at home by creating a cozy atmosphere with calming music and scented candles. Just grab some clean towels, Epsom salts, and your favorite skincare products to whip up homemade scrubs and facials for a refreshing treat.

What Makes a Potluck Dinner a Great Option for a Budget-friendly Gathering?

A potluck dinner is a budget-friendly option because everyone brings a dish, so you get a tasty variety without breaking the bank. Plus, it's a fun way to see what everyone can whip up!