Summer doesn’t need to be expensive to be fun! While I don’t mind spending money when needed for a fun activity, keeping the kids busy can get pricey if you’re looking for something new to do every day. I’ve put together a list of things to do in the Charlotte area that are free or cheap. Hope this helps you out!
- Summer Movie Express at Regal Cinemas: At 11:00am every Monday-Thursday, come watch a movie at Regal Cinemas for $1/ticket through mid-August. This year’s movies include K-Pop Demon Hunters, The Spongebob Movie, and the Wild Robot, among others!
- AMC Summer Movie Camp 2026: AMC Theatres also run a special on family-friendly summer movies, with tickets costing $3/person on Mondays and Wednesdays at 11:00am and 2:00pm through mid-August. Movies include The Lego Movie and Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
- Sports Connection – Ballantyne, NC: Discounted deals include half-price arcade games on Tuesdays and $20/hour bowling on Wednesdays.
- Lucky Strike Charlotte: Speaking of bowling, at Lucky Strike, you can buy a summer pass that allows for two games of bowling per day plus a free shoe rental every time you visit, now through 9/1.
- Urban Air – Mint Hill, NC: For $50 per person, you can buy a pass to Urban Air in Mint Hill and get unlimited indoor play time. A great way to keep the kids active while staying out of the sun!
- Charlotte-Area Splash Parks: Check out our list of splash pads in the area, many of which are free to use!
- Charlotte-Area Playgrounds: Head out in the mornings for some outdoor fun at one of these local playgrounds! A favorite of ours is Squirrel Lake Park in Matthews, with its playground, picnic tables, and trails.
Do you know of any other great summertime deals? Let us know and we’ll add it in!
