St. Cloud Summer Fun on the Cheap

In a community where the weather can change faster than a road can close for construction, Summer is a cherished season. As we find ourselves halfway through the summer, many are scrambling to fit in some last-minute fun, though don’t want to drain their bank account in the process. As the last few Summertime by George Concerts come closer, check out our list of inexpensive summer activities around St. Cloud:

Outdoor Endeavors at St. Cloud State

The sports facilities and recreation department at St. Cloud State University is a great resource for inexpensive activities in the area. The department is not limited to SCSU students; many of their programs are open to the public:

• Climbing Wall - during the summer, the climbing wall is only open to group reservations. If you are looking for a new group activity, this can be the perfect option.
• Canoeing/Kayaking - SCSU offers rentals, shuttle service, tours, and lessons to the community. Pricing varies by group size and rentals.
• Lake George Boathouse - The SCSU Center for Paddlesports Instruction, Education, and Safety offers canoeing and stand up paddleboarding (SUP) instructional programs on Lake George. An hour rental is only $8!

Music in the Gardens / Release of the Butterflies

If you love music and butterflies, there is one event this summer that is perfect for you: the Music in the Gardens Concert & Memorial Release of Butterflies. This event is sponsored by the Central Minnesota Arts Board and presented by Munsinger Clemens Botanical Society and the St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra. It takes place at Munsinger Clemens gardens July 24th. Butterflies will be distributed at 2 PM with a short program and the release to follow. At 3 PM, the Music in the Gardens Concert will begin, featuring Dennis Warner. The event is free to the public. Butterflies may be purchased at www.quietoakshospicehouse.org for $25 and root beer floats will be served by the Munsinger Clemens Botanical Society for just $1.

Sizzlin’ Summer Art Crawl

For the eleventh year, the St. Cloud Art Crawl will be presenting it’s Sizzlin’ Summer Crawl on August 12th. As always, this event is free to the public and will feature hoopers, fire breathers, musicians, artist demonstrations, and a ton of local artists. Stop by Saint Germain Street in Downtown St. Cloud to check out this local favorite.

Activities at the Great River Regional Library

Looking to take up a new hobby? Or maybe you want to fine-tune your skills or join a new club. Either way, the Great River Regional Library offers many fantastic activities throughout the summer to keep you and your family busy. Activities are available for all age groups - from toddlers to seniors. Whether you’re looking for gardening advice, a storytime activity for your kids, or somewhere to find fun game night or movie night activities, your local library is all the further you need to look.