Frugal Family: Embrace Spring's Warmth

Spring officially begins on Sunday and with warmer weather finally finding its way North, it's a great time to get the kids outside for some fun, healthy and FRUGAL fun.

1. Family Hike at Arcadia Management Area:

The Deal: It's 100 percent free, wholesome family bonding time. Once a month the grassroots organization Rhode Island Families in Nature organizes a safe, family-friendly hike to encourage families to get off the couch and explore some of the state's natural beauty together. The hikes are great for kids of all ages and informal so if your little ones tire, you can head back to the car.

Good Through: This month's hike is tomorrow, Saturday, March 19. The hike kicks off at 10:15 am from the Upper Roaring Brook section of Arcadia Management Area in Hope Valley. Meet trail leaders at the intersection of Teft Hill Trail and Arcadia Road and start exploring!

2. Welcome Spring Party at Kite Tails Play Center:

The Deal: For just $6 per child (and $4 for additional siblings), children up to age 6 can celebrate the start of spring with open play, crafts and a snack at the center, located at 6320 Post Road in North Kingstown.

Good Through: The celebration lasts from noon to 3pm on Sunday, March 20.

3. Seal Watching and Light House Tours with Save the Bay:

The Deal: Children turn into instant explorers aboard Save the Bay's ship, the Alletta Morris. Adventures will take them on a tour of the costs lighthouses while they scan the seas for seals with binoculars. Seniors and kids ages 5 -12 cost $15 and adults cost $20 for a one-hour trip. A two-hour journey costs adults $30 and seniors and children cost $25.

Good Through: Tours run every weekend and daily during school vaction weeks through April 20. This week's boats send off from Bowen's Wharf in Newport on Saturday, March 19 at 11:30am and 12:30pm and on Sunday, March 20 at 12:30pm and 1:30pm. Click here for a full schedule of dates and times.

4. Rainy Day Alternative: Budget Tuesdays at Local Movie Theaters:

The Deal: Matinee prices are good all day for all ages on Tuesday at Wakefield's Entertainment Cinema, located in South County Commons and at the Showcase Cinemas in East Greenwich on Division Road and at the Warwick Mall.

Good Through: Every Tuesday.