Summer on a Budget: Free & Cheap Things to Do in Broward County

Summer in South Florida is stunning, but keeping yourself or the kids entertained doesn’t have to break the bank. With theme park tickets and expensive beach parking, summer costs can quickly add up.

The good news? Some of the best activities throughout Broward County—from Coral Springs all the way down to Dania Beach—are cheaper than a fancy coffee, and many are entirely free.

Whether you’re a local wanting to switch up your routine or a newcomer exploring the area, here are four wonderful, budget-friendly ways to enjoy a summer day.

1. Explore the Wild Side: Secret Woods Nature Center (Dania Beach)

Tucked just off I-95, Secret Woods is Broward County’s first nature center and a hidden gem. It offers a peaceful retreat with a 3,800-square-foot walk-through butterfly garden and a boardwalk trail through a mangrove swamp. Visitors can see native wildlife such as birds and reptiles while enjoying educational programs and guided tours that promote environmental awareness and conservation. The shaded trails remain cool under a massive tree canopy, making it a great place to escape the afternoon sun.

• 100% Free with Free parking! (Please do your due diligence and ensure current pricing in case this has changed) 

2. Family Movie Nights Under the Stars (Coral Springs)

You don’t have to spend movie theater prices to enjoy a great film. Many cities in Broward offer free outdoor movie nights during the summer. Take a look at the Coral Springs Parks & Recreation community calendar—they often show family-friendly blockbusters on large inflatable screens in local parks during the cooler evenings.

• Free admission. Just bring your own lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks. (Please do your due diligence and ensure current pricingin case this has changed) 

3. Take a Visual Journey: NSU Art Museum (Fort Lauderdale)

If you want to beat the summer humidity entirely, head indoors for some world-class culture in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The NSU Art Museum houses over 7,500 works of art and features incredible rotating contemporary exhibits. After viewing the art, you can take a free stroll along the adjacent Riverwalk to watch the boats pass by.

• While regular adult admission is $16, they offer Free First Thursdays every month from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. (Please do your due diligence and ensure current pricing)

4. Splash Around: Local Splash Pads & Water Parks

When the summer heat peaks and the temperatures soar, staying cool and hydrated becomes essential. Instead of spending a fortune on admission fees at crowded commercial water parks, consider a more affordable and convenient option right in your own backyard. Broward County Parks offer a variety of local splash zones that provide a fun and refreshing way to beat the heat. These splash zones are perfect for families, friends, and individuals looking to enjoy water play without the hassle of long lines or expensive tickets. With well-maintained facilities, safe environments, and plenty of shaded areas, Broward County’s splash zones are an ideal destination to cool off, relax, and make lasting summer memories. Deerfield Beach has a fantastic Splash Adventure zone, and Winston Park right here in Coral Springs features a wonderful interactive sun splash area perfect for younger kids. So next time the sun is blazing, skip the commercial parks and take advantage of the wonderful splash zones available throughout Broward County Parks. 

• The Cost: Regional parks charge a tiny $3 vehicle gate fee on weekends, but entry into the actual sun splash areas is incredibly cheap—usually just $1 to $1.50 per person for entry into the splash pad zones (Please do your due diligence and ensure current pricing)

The Perks of Suburban Broward Living

One of the reasons families love moving to suburban Broward hubs like Coral Springs is the incredible infrastructure built by the county and local municipalities. We have access to top-tier parks, community events, and cultural centers that don't cost an arm and a leg to enjoy. It’s a huge factor in why our local property values stay so strong—the quality of life.

Are you looking to move closer to Broward’s best parks and community amenities? Let's discuss which neighborhood best fits your lifestyle and budget!

Carlos Guerrero
Operations Manager | The Penn Team 
(954) 281-9543