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Sometimes finding affordable things to do in SoCal that are actually worth it can be hard. Besides going to the beach or the park it feels like there’s nothing to do that’s budget-friendly.
Going out to relax shouldn’t add more financial stress. It already feels like every time we breathe or take a step outside of the house another $100 is added to our bill.
After how much you guys loved last year’s list of Affordable Things To Do In SoCal For $15 Or Less, we just had to do it again with some of our new favs.
There’s something for everyone on this list, from family friendly activities or a little date night just for the adults. All age groups will be entertained and happy. And the best part is that nobody’s wallet will be crying for help.
This is our 2024 updated list of affordable things to do in SoCal this summer. Don’t forget to check out last year’s favorites!
5 Affordable Things To Do In SoCal Summer 2024
1. Cherry Picking
Have you ever tried a fresh cherry straight off the tree? Everyone should experience that flavor at least one time! There are plenty of orchards that have free parking and entry. The only thing you have to do is pay for the cherries you pick.
Cherry picking is a great activity to do when looking for something simple, affordable, and fun for the whole family. Just keep in mind that cherry blooms are seasonal, so make sure cherries are ripe before going.
Cherry picking season in SoCal starts in late May to early June every year and only last about a month. This is when the cherries are sweetest, juiciest, and ripest. Don’t miss it! Villa Del Sol Sweet Cherry Farms in Leona Valley, CA is one of my personal favorites and highly recommended. Just keep in mind that they do have a $10 per person minimum. Check the website and call the phone number of the orchard to get the most accurate update on when cherries will be ready.
2. Whale Watching
Being out on the open ocean, getting fresh air, and seeing the animals in their natural habitat is an unreal experience. Nothing a zoo or animal shelter could provide!
Personally, my favorite whale watching spot is Dana Wharf whale watching in Dana Point, CA. In order for this to be an affordable activity, you’ve got to go when they have their half-price Tuesday’s deal running. This makes the price $28 per person instead of $56. Cha-ching! Check their website for more details.
There’s also a whale watching deal on Groupon for Davey’s Locker or Newport Landing in Newport Beach, CA. Ticket prices for this deal currently range from $11-$20 for children ages 3-12 and $19-$30 for adults ages 13+. The price you get depends on the time of day and day of the week you go.
3. Wine Tasting
Going wine tasting is fun for a few reasons. The venues are beautiful. It’s a great place to relax, lounge, and let loose with your friends, family, or a special someone. There are plenty of beautiful photo ops with views of the grassy hills and grape vines as a background. Not to mention, you get to experience all types of new wines! Even if you’re not necessarily a “wine person” this will be a blast for the whole crew.
Surprisingly, wine tasting may not be as expensive as you think. In fact, you can go wine tasting in SoCal for $30 or less. Entrance and parking is free, so all you have to worry about is drinks and food. Go dressed casual or dressed up, the decision is yours. Such a great affordable date idea!
At most vineyards, you get six pours of wine with your tasting and can also buy by the glass for an additional cost. You will be given a stamp card with six spots on it that the wine expert will check off every time you get a new taste. And of course, you must be 21 or older to drink.
Click here to learn about the best affordable wine tastings in SoCal.
4. Drive-In Movies
The drive-in movie is kind of a forgotten summer activity that is so underrated. There’s nothing like being out on a summer night in SoCal. Gather all your favorite friends and family, pack the car full of your favorite snacks, and bring some chairs or blankets. It’s like a nighttime picnic and movie.
The Rubidoux drive-in is one of my favorites because it’s near the Mt. Rubidoux hiking trail. We make a whole day of it- hiking in the morning, ramen for lunch, a quick store run for snacks, then finish the day with a movie night. SoCal is a big place! If this isn’t your vibe look up a local theater near you and get going!
5. Baseball Game
Baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes, so how cool would it be to experience a pro-game in person?! SoCal is home to 2 very popular MLB teams- the Dodgers and the Angels. I know what you’re thinking. “Tickets to a baseball game? How much is that going to cost??”. Well, tickets are surprisingly cheap depending on when you go, where you are seated and what teams you are seeing. In fact, we’ve seen tickets priced as low as $3 at times.
If you go during the week you’re likely to see much lower prices than the weekend games. Also on holidays (like the 4th of July) the prices are expected to skyrocket. And of course as always, the closer you are to the field, the more cash will be coming out of your pocket.
The general atmosphere of any professional sports game is just so fun regardless of where you sit. The food, the music, the traditions, and the energy from the crowd. Even if you have no idea what’s going on you can have a great time cheering and people watching with your group.
Check sites like SeatGeek and TickPick to find the best prices on games.
