Page 10 - July 2019 Version 2

FIVE CHEAP SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR THE FAMILY

By Rashawnda Atkinson
Summer is in full swing! No more ticipants can earn points towards a Go Camping
early mornings, alarms or homework free book of their own. There are State and national parks are a great
for a while. even programs targeted towards way to enjoy a night under the stars
adults as well. and many offer inexpensive passes
That’s the good news. for admission. Camping has changed
Our own library in the Community a great deal, depending on where you
The bad news? Center has many books for residents go. Some sites have showers, elec-
of all ages to enjoy. You can have a tricity and a place to purchase items
School’s out and now your family relaxing time reading there or grab you need! The closest camp sites to
needs something to do. some books to read and return at your WAL are Burke Lake Park in Burke
leisure. and Pohick Bay Regional Park in
This is true especially if they don’t Lorton. The Prince William Forest
have summer jobs or aren’t in sum- Explore Local Park offers cabins at a bargain rate as
mer camp. Families are always on the If you’re itching to get out and about, well. Research any site you choose
hunt for ways to maximize their qual- Alexandria has lots of free or low- before going so there won’t be any
ity time AND save money surprises. Remember to pack
while doing it. So here are a plenty of food and tools
few ideas that won’t break the (unless you’re planning on
bank and that the whole fami- catching your own food),
ly can enjoy! pitch your tent and enjoy
camping with your family for
No Place Like Home a night or two!
As a WAL resident you have
access to the pool, park and Don’t let the threat of inclem-
picnic areas as a part of your ent weather ruin your camping
amenities here. Plan a day at trip. You can still enjoy the
the pool and break for lunch at camp atmosphere if plans
home, the Market or at one of change due to rain or cool
the picnic tables. Be sure to temperatures. Just trade in the
invite a few friends and have a open fire for an electric grill
few passes for those not living and your outdoor tents for
on property. You could then some blankets and have a
play a few rounds of volley- camp-in, provided it is safe to
ball, basketball, tennis, fris- do so!
bee, etc. Or if you think you
have the arm strength, have a Hop onto the King St. Trolley for a free adventure! Movie Night
friendly game of cornhole near Photo: R. Kennedy If you miss out on the Free
the pool! Sounds like a great Movie Nights hosted the sec-
way to spend the day to me! cost attractions to visit. Hop on the ond Thursday each month, you can
free King Street Trolley or go to the plan your own or take a trip to the
Love Your Library Torpedo Factory Art Center. You theater! Movies that suit the interests
The Alexandria Public Library has could eat a picnic lunch at a spot of everyone and plenty of movie-
tons to offer families and all it re- along the Waterfront or be awed with theater snacks help make the evening
quires is a bit of planning ahead and the National Inventors Hall of Fame fun. Dollar stores sell movie-themed
some time. Typically, they offer sum- and Museum. Enjoy the sounds of the items such as popcorn holders, large
mer plays and interactive programs street performers or watch artists cre- candy boxes and specialty treats. Set
that appeal to different ages. Many of ate paintings as they happen at the up the living room with pillows, or-
the performing artists are award- Waterfront. There’s lots to do in this der some pizza or make your own
winning nationally or well-known city and you don’t have to spend a lot and watch your favorite flicks on
locally. The summer reading program of money or time to get there. your TV or smart device.
covers birth – Grade 12, and all par-

Page 10 Wheel July 2019