Yay for summertime! A double yay for summertime in Chico. There are so many fun things to do in Chico, California during the summertime, but unfortunately you are on a budget. What gives? No need to worry! If you didn’t know already, there are so many things to do in Chico that are fun and adventurous that cost nearly nothing or are free.

Take a dip to cool off

Chico has an abundance of different places where you can cool off in a body of water, for FREE. That’s the very best kind right? There’s no paying for a water park in Chico. Instead, you get to enjoy nature at its finest without ever opening your wallet. Here are some great spots to check out:

• Bear Hole, Alligator Hole, Etc.
• Upper Park in general
• Sacramento River [float]
• Butte Creek [Honey Run]
• Paradise Flumes
• One Mile
• Little Chico Creek

Explore Farmers’ Markets

Farmers’ markets are a summer staple and can often be found multiple days of the week. They are also a great place to find summer fresh fruits and vegetables for when you are on a budget. In addition, they often have free entertainment like musicians, magic shows, dance groups, etc. Want to learn how to farmers’ market like a pro? Read this: Tips for Farmers’ Markets in Chico, Paradise & Oroville. 

Go stargazing

Chico is full of great places to lay a blanket down or kick back the tailgate and look up at the amazing starry scenery. Have you ever gone stargazing in Chico, Ca? It is truly amazing and a view like you will never see. Plus, it’s completely free!

Here’s a list of some great places to catch the stars (well, not literally…dang it):

• Upper Park (even better, the Observatory)
• Lookout point off of Skyway
• One of the lookout spots off of Humboldt Road

Attend a local concert or festival

Summer is arguably the best time to enjoy concerts! But they can often break the bank and leave you hurting financially, although the experience never seems to disappoint. Did you know that you can sometimes volunteer to work and donate some of your time for a free ticket to the show? There you go! There’s your secret to saving money while on a budget.

Ride bikes & picnic

There’s something very Chico about riding your bike through Bidwell Park and having a picnic. It’s a great way to pass a summer day with ease, but also without having to spend any money.

Disc golf it up

Did you know we have some pretty awesome disc golf courses in Chico? Disc golf is a fun game that almost anyone can play and have fun with all while getting outside and enjoying the beauty that Chico has to offer. For local disc golf courses, click here. My personal favorite is in Upper Bidwell Park referred to as Peregrine Point. Disc golf is completely free, however you must purchase or borrow the discs to play.

Want some more ideas? Check out these resources:

50 Things to do in Chico When It’s Dead: Summer Guide

101 Things to do in Chico

What are your favorite things to do during a Chico summer that don’t cost a lot of money? We would love to hear!