Saving money can be incredibly hard, especially with the excitement of finally having a steady flow of income and being in a city built on college kids. While all of the initial expenses may seem overwhelming, you don’t actually have to stress being late on rent every time you go out for drinks or catch a movie. There are plenty of free and inexpensive fun options around Boston, that barely break the bank and let you enjoy city life.
● Embrace the “dive” bar atmosphere.
While all the exclusive clubs with the hot up and coming DJ’s seem tempting to explore, after two or three times you might find yourself getting annoyed with the overpriced cover fees, lines pricey drinks that aren’t even giving you any buzz. Usually smaller, these “dive” bars might seem like a cheap alternative, but if you’re with a group of friends, it doesn’t seem to matter. There are a lot great nooks in Boston that will give you all the essentials in a night out: Drinks, food and space to hang with all your friends…. Oh, and for a fraction of the price. Check out the “”cash only” Clock Tower bar in South Boston, or Coogans, the Milk st. spot with dollar draft weekends. Avoid the wristbands, find one of these bars and you’ll definitely have a great night, and still find some cash in your wallet at the end.
Check out Thrillist’s list of Boston’s Best Dive Bars to see which one you might be in the mood for next weekend.
● Movies don’t have to be new releases, or on the weekends
If you’re a bit of a movie buff and enjoy actually going to the theatre rather than sitting on your couch, then i’m sure you’re usually line to see the best and newest movie on a friday night. The newest superhero feats, romcoms, and Nicholas Sparks films that you know are going to make you sob are great after a long weekend, but can be taxing on your bank account after the bills are paid (not to mention the $5.00 bottle of water or the $7.50 medium popcorn). There are a number of deals and matinees that one might not have gone to originally, but it can definitely add up in the long run to saving some money. Boston Common’s Loews Theater holds a Bargain Tuesdays with classic movies and more often than not, price drops incur after one week. Catching an early show is also a good way to beat the crowd and save some money.
● Spend a day to explore a local park
Taking a stroll around any one of the number of parks and open areas in Boston can be a great way to get out in the fresh air and maybe even get some color from the sun. A picnic on The Common and feeding the ducks by the duck boats is perfect for a day with friends or even a date. Going for a long run on the Esplanade or just a day people watching (a personal favorite activity) can kill a few hours and be the perfect free summer outing for you and friends.
Here’s a distinct list of Boston’s 8 best parks according to wheretraveler.com, if you need some help picking where you’re going to have that picnic.
● Local events
If new spontaneous events are more up your alley, the Hub has just the remedy. Local Boston businesses host a ton of workshops and informational seminars that can fill a day and actually educate you a little bit at the same time. These are almost essential to spicing up any schedule that has seemed to become all too much of a routine: Work, Bills, Sleep, Repeat. Many of the events are free or have a reduced cost for beginners and boast a wide variety and are usually held in the spring/summer. These include tai chi on the common, poetry and comedy readings at a number of restaurants and artisan groups like woodworking, music shops and painting. If you’re looking for a new skill or a productive way to spend a day rather than a movie or napping, these are for you.
Here’s The Boston Calendar for every upcoming event, from drawing classes to wine tastings.
Hopefully this small list is enough to get you started on saving money, even if it’s just for the summer. Contrary to popular belief, Boston is an easy place to still have fun and not break the bank!