Six Budget-Conscious Summer Fun Ideas for Women Nearing or in Retirement in Canton, Ohio

June 30, 2025

Summer in Northeast Ohio is full of opportunity, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy it. 

If you’re a woman nearing or in retirement, you may be looking for ways to stay active, connected, and inspired without breaking your budget.

At Pleasant Wealth, we believe retirement is about living intentionally. That includes how you spend your time and money. 

Here are six budget-friendly summer ideas, right here in the Canton area, that offer meaningful experiences without a hefty price tag.

Article Overview

  1. Canton Arts District First Friday Events
  2. Sippo Lake Park
  3. Free Stark County Library Programming
  4. Canton Farmers’ Market
  5. Local History
  6. Backyard Gatherings
  7. Living Intentionally

1. Explore the Canton Arts District First Friday Events

Every first Friday of the month, downtown Canton comes alive with music, art exhibits, food trucks, and community. Best of all? It’s free to attend. Bring a friend, enjoy the creativity, and soak in the vibrant local culture.

💡 Budget Tip: Park a few blocks away and take a scenic walk to save on parking—and enjoy the fresh air.

2. Enjoy the Outdoors at Sippo Lake Park

Whether you’re walking the trails, renting a kayak, or simply enjoying a book on a park bench, Sippo Lake is a peaceful retreat just minutes from the city. The Stark Parks system also hosts free or low-cost programs for adults throughout the summer.

💡 Fitness Bonus: Walking the park trails is a gentle, heart-healthy way to stay active.

3. Take Advantage of Free Library Programming

We love the library! The Stark County District Library offers much more than books. Yes, we’re the people who load our homes with library books but take a moment to think beyond just “books”. 

From author talks and hobby classes to film nights and workshops, their summer lineup is full of options for adults, and most of it is free.

💡 Connection Idea: Invite a friend to attend a workshop or event with you and grab food or coffee afterward to discuss what you learned.

4. Stroll Through the Canton Farmers’ Market

Held on Saturday mornings through early fall, the Canton Farmers’ Market is a lively destination for fresh produce, homemade treats, and handmade goods. Even if you’re just browsing, it’s a fun way to spend the morning and connect with local vendors. 💡 Health Tip: Shopping seasonal, local produce can help you eat healthier on a budget.

5. Take in Local History at the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum

Learn something new while staying cool indoors. The McKinley Museum offers exhibits on science, history, and local culture, and admission is affordable, with senior discounts available. 💡 Pro Tip: Plan a weekday visit for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.

6. Host a Backyard Garden Gathering

You don’t have to go far to have fun. Invite a few friends over for iced tea and conversation in your backyard or on the patio. Share a potluck-style lunch, swap garden flowers, or just enjoy the sunshine and each other’s company. Take that string of Christmas lights and run it through the bottom row of branches for extra whimsy. 💡 Mindset Shift: Meaningful social time doesn’t have to cost money.

Living Fully, Spending Intentionally

Summer is about connection, exploration, and enjoyment—and it doesn’t require lavish spending to make it memorable. As you continue into or through retirement, it’s possible to align your lifestyle with your values and your budget. These simple local joys are proof of that. Our team of financial advisors at Pleasant Wealth helps women prepare for retirement with thoughtful, personalized financial strategies, so you can live more and worry less.

Ready to align your retirement lifestyle with your financial plan? 📅 Schedule a conversation with our team to get started.

Liz Hand, certified financial planner, sitting in the Pleasant Wealth office in Canton Ohio

About the Author

Clinton Miller, CFP®, is an investment advisor & financial planner with an educational background in mathematics.  He enjoys making tax planning relevant for clients so they can make confident money decisions. 

He and his wife Aubrey are based in Canton, OH & have two sons.  In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, chainsaw repair, & mucking around in the woods.