Looking for cheap summer fun in the Quaboag River Valler? Check out these ideas for completely FREE outdoor activities near you:
1. Spend a day at Endelson Playground in Bondsville
This may seem obvious, but I think we sometimes forget about how many great parks we have right here in our own backyard. Endelson Playground is one of our favorites, with a clean play structure and a small spray park. There's even a basketball court for the bigger kids.
 Photo Courtesy of: Palmer Playground Committee |
2. Splash around at Lake Siog in Holland
Lake Siog Recreation Area offers swimming from a sandy beach, picnic tables and clean restrooms—a must for families with kids! You can bring your kayaks or paddleboards and even fish from shore. Tired of the water? Take a short walk on a nearby nature trail.
3. Visit the Keep Homestead Museum in Monson
The Keep Family were among the first settlers in Monson and their homestead, which is open to the public the first Sunday of every month, is now a museum showcasing family artifacts spanning 150 years of history. The property has about 75 acres of farmland, a pond, and a small granite quarry (now a certified vernal pool) that you are free to explore!
 Photo courtesy of: Keep Homestead Museum |
4. Check out the Palmer Public Library
The Palmer Public Library offers a wide variety of youth programming—from drop-in crafts to library on the lawn. Some events may require advance registration, so be sure to check their website before you make plans.
5. Enjoy live music in Sturbridge
Every Thursday night, sit back and relax on the Sturbridge Town Common for their Summer Concert Series. Bring your lawn chairs and some snacks for an evening of musical delight.
6. Go fishing at Dean Pond in Brimfield
Dean Pond Recreation Area, located in the western portion of Brimfield State Forest, has plenty of shoreline from which to fish. Bring your favorite pole and some worms, and they'll be biting before you can say, "go fish."
7. Take a bike ride in Brimfield
The Brimfield Rail Trail is a completed 2.8 mile section of the proposed Titanic Rail Trail. It's right off of Route 20 with ample parking and easy, flat riding for kids of all ages.
8. Picnic at Quabbin Reservoir in Ware
Pack a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon exploring Hank's Meadow and climbing to the top of the Quabbin Observation Tower. Whether you're hiking, biking, or just soaking up the sun, it's a perfect way to spend time together!
9. Hike at Rock House Reservation in West Brookfield
Discover this 30-foot-high cave formation overlooking Carter Pond. Rock House was a popular stop on the “Copper Line,” an electric trolley that once ran from West Brookfield to Ware.
10. Check out your local Macaroni KID calendar!
There are so many awesome events happening across the Quaboag Valley this summer. Be sure to browse the Macaroni KID Palmer-Monson-Ware calendar when you're looking for ideas to keep the family entertained.
