One of the best ways to reach your $1,000 goal in the VyStar Savings Challenge is to cut back on weekend expenses — but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on having fun. Florida and Georgia are full of free and low-cost activities that let you enjoy your time without straining your budget.
Here's how to make memories with friends and loved ones without overspending.
Explore Local Parks and Trails
Getting outside is an easy (and healthy!) way to enjoy your weekend for free. Florida and Georgia have incredible parks and trails, perfect for hiking, biking or simply getting some fresh air.
Florida is home to well over 100 state parks, from Big Talbot Island in Northeast Florida to Silver Springs State Park in Central Florida. If you joined our Good is everywhere in 2024, you may have discovered the Jacksonville Arboretum, a great spot to visit again.
In Georgia, the Silver Comet Trail stretches over 60 miles, from just outside of Atlanta to the Georgia-Alabama line. Georgia's state parks include Sweetwater Creek and Providence Canyon, often called “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon.”
For an extra budget-friendly adventure, pack snacks and bring a reusable water bottle. It's good for your wallet and the environment.
Visit Free Museums and Historic Sites
Many museums offer free admission days or are always free. VyStar members get special access to a number of museums through our VyStar Perks program. These include:
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville is free to the entire community on Saturdays.
The Mennello Museum of American Art for free on the second Sunday of the month.
The Visit Florida website offers a comprehensive list of museums. Explore Georgia features the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and many more.
Plus, you can explore historic districts like St. Augustine or Savannah, where walking tours are free.
Hit the Beach (or the Springs!)
A classic weekend doesn’t have to cost a dime. Pack a lunch, grab a towel and enjoy the sunshine at spots like:
Jacksonville Beach, Clearwater Beach and Amelia Island in Florida.
Jekyll Island, Cumberland Island and Tybee Island in Georgia.
If you prefer freshwater, natural springs like Ichetucknee Springs offer free or low-cost swimming areas. These spots are great for cooling off without the cost of a waterpark.
Host a DIY Game or Movie Night
Sometimes, the best nights don’t require going out at all. Instead, try:
A board game or card night.
A video game tournament.
A movie marathon with a theme — such as ‘80s classics, action thrillers or feel-good comedies.
Save even more by borrowing movies from the library for free or streaming from free platforms instead of paying for rentals.
Meal Prep with What You Have
We know dining out can drain your budget. Instead of heading to a restaurant, challenge yourself to cook with what’s already in your fridge and pantry.
Use leftover veggies for a stir-fry or homemade soup.
Get creative and try new recipes with ingredients you already have. Use a website such as SuperCook to input what’s in your kitchen and it will suggest meals for you.
This helps you save money, reduce food waste and stay on track with your savings goal.
Declutter and Sell Unused Items
Want to save money and make money? Spend part of your weekend selling items you no longer use. It’s a simple way to boost your savings.
Clothing, electronics, furniture and even kitchen gadgets can be sold on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark or OfferUp.
Having fun doesn't have to break your budget. Whether staying in or heading out for an adventure, there are many free and low-cost ways to spend your weekend.