Summer is here and parents across the country are looking for fun ways to fill their kids’ days. From theatre shows to sporting events, there are plenty of family-friendly summer activities to entertain all ages. Take a closer look at a few of our favorite suggestions below.
TV Favorites Come Alive
One exciting way to get your kids away from their screens might be a touring production that features the characters from their favorite shows like Paw Patrol Live, Bluey’s Big Play or Blippi Live. These touring productions often have mascot-sized costumed characters playing out new plots on stage. They are also great for creating fantastic photo opportunities if your kids are bold enough to ask for a hug or high-five. Check listings at local theatres and arenas for these types of shows.
Classic Stories on Stage
Another entertaining and air-conditioned option is a local theatre production of fairy tales like Cinderella, or Disney classics like The Lion King and The Little Mermaid. There are two main types of kid-friendly theatre shows. The first is a story that is inherently age-appropriate but is successful with a wider audience. The second is a touring show that is adapted to be more kid-friendly with shorter run times. Those usually include a marker like “Jr.” to help you identify them easily like Annie Jr. They still include most of the hit songs but are a little more digestible for younger audiences.
Fun Under the Big Top
Going to the circus is a classic family favorite and with companies like Garden Bros Nuclear Circus, you can enjoy it with a new twist that focuses on incredible human feats. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey has also returned to touring this year with appearances in arenas around the country. Before you go, make sure to read TicketSmarter’s Family Guide to the Circus for answers to frequently asked questions and a few tips to help you all enjoy the trip.
High-Octane Adventures
For a slightly rowdier crowd, you might consider Monster Trucks. These high-powered vehicles are made for destruction. You will be amazed at what they can do. In addition to the trucks, there are often other performers like high-flying dirt bikes and carnival food if you are willing to splurge. Companies like Garden Motorsports, which presents Monster Truckz, offer free kids’ tickets to schools, daycare centers and large employers during their tour stops.
An Afternoon at the Ballpark
Nothing says summer quite like baseball. Whether you are there for the action on the field or the snacks from the concession stand, baseball games are an activity the whole family can enjoy. In addition to the MLB, you can find local teams that play in other affiliated professional leagues like the Pioneer Baseball League presented by TicketSmarter, American League, Frontier League and Atlantic League. Collegiate wooden bat and Minor League Baseball teams also play throughout the summer and often have a lower price tag.
A Soccer Match to Remember
With the upcoming FIFA World Cup, this will be a big year for women’s soccer in particular. Check out your local NWSL team’s upcoming schedule or see a men’s side squad in the MLS. Most stadiums have special family seating zones and activities in the concourse in case someone needs a break from the game’s action. The USL is another men’s league that has teams in smaller markets.
Plan Your Family-Friendly Summer
TicketSmarter has tickets to more than 125,000 concerts, sporting events and theatre shows. Category pages will show local events first, making it easy to browse upcoming activities in your area or check for options on the road too. If you are heading out on a family vacation, check HotelPlanner for exclusive travel deals.
