Spring is on Its Way! Time to Get Out and Enjoy It

With spring only a few weeks away, most of us have a severe case of Spring Fever but don't want to break the bank trying to cure it. You need some inexpensive options to enjoy the spring you so desperately need after a winter like we've had. Here are some great outdoor activities to enjoy when the weather breaks, or even now.

Lakewood Blue Claws – Lakewood

What says spring more than the start of baseball season? There's plenty of deals for families at the Lakewood Blue Claws Stadium. Kids eat free Sundays and Mondays. All children, ages 12 and under, will receive a voucher for a hot dog, bag of chips, and a soda upon entering the gates. Dollar dog Wednesdays is where all hot dogs in the first and third base concession stands are just one dollar. Free fireworks are on Fridays for added frugality and fun.

Cattus Island County Park - Toms River

Spring weather leads you directly to local parks. Luckily Cattus Island is having some great events. At Natural Wonders — Sea Creatures at 9-10 a.m. March 3, listen to stories and enjoy interactive activities and crafts at the Cooper Environmental Center.  Designed for parent and child, ages 3 to 5, participation.  $4 per person.  Registration required. Phone: 732-270-6960.

Harry Wright Lake – Whiting

Get ready to head to the calm waters of this huge Manchester lake. With so many activities and events, your family will never be bored.  Harry Wright Lake offers swimming lake with daily badges  at  $5 per person; season badges at $20/adult, children 13 and under are free. There's also free concerts throughout the summer,  camp programs, adult programs and fireworks.

Canoeing in the Cedar Creek – Berkeley Township

You can rent a canoe at several rental locations throughout the township or launch your own canoe for free at one of the many launch sites. Grab your oars the first warm day ahead and enjoy.

Funtown Pier - Seaside Heights

Mondays thru Fridays, you can pay one price — $15.00 — for all of the rides. Ride as many times as you like for six straight hours from noon to 6 p.m. Funtown Pier also has a $1 menu, with  boardwalk hot dog, hot super pretzel, bag of cotton candy, box of popcorn, any snack, and 20 oz. bottle drinks each costing a dollar.

Barnegat Lighthouse – Barnegat Light

Grab a dollar and head to the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park on the weekend. The park itself is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the Lighthouse will be open weekend from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Children under 12 are free but must be accompanied by an adult. Phone: (609) 494-2016.