Yesterday in Minneapolis, MN, it hit 90 degrees. I can sense the summer fever from everyone I know. With an early memorial weekend right around the corner, we will be sitting in the summer sun in no time at all! I know many people get excited for the summer, but if you don't actually make use of it, what good is it to you? In this article I have 5 suggestions for cheap or free things to get you out of the house and in to summer fun mode.

1) Don't forget the beach!

This seems so obvious for Californians because many of them think about their summer beach time all year round, but for those of us in the midwest, we must get more creative. For those that are new to Chicago, they have some fantastic beaches that run up and down lake Michigan for miles. Almost all beaches there are totally bike accessible. In Minneapolis there are the swimming beaches on various lakes in and around the city. Wherever you are at, there is probably a nice public hang-out near your local body of water.

2) Volleyball, Tennis and other outdoor sports

Maybe it's time to make yourself get off the couch and go play some racket sports after work. I just started playing Tennis. I've been playing a few times per week and absolutely loving it. The start equipment is cheap and many cities have free outdoor courts. If you've got a beach nearby, many are equipped with poles for volleyball nets. Yes, you will need to bring your own ball and net but splitting that with a few friends will keep the overhead down and summer fun up.

3) Does anyone picnic anymore?

Just pack up some food, beer or wine (if you're legal) and find a nice spot to spend a few hours hanging out with friends in the great outdoors. Summer picnics are a great way to spend time soaking up the nice weather while enjoying hanging out with friends or family.

4) Go for a bike adventure

When I lived in Chicago, I found many bike trails that led from the city all over the suburbs. There are literally hundreds of miles of them there. Some cities aren't nearly as bike-friendly, but if you do a little research, you'll probably be able to figure out a safe route that will get you out on your bike for a few hours. It's really not that hard to do a 15 or 20 mile ride. I was out of shape last time and still managed to do 40 miles. Just take your time and enjoy the tour or pack a lunch and turn it into a picnic.

5) Discover the power of reading a book outdoors in the shade.

So many people aren't aware of how totally relaxing and rewarding it is to just lay in a lawn chair outside in the summer, sip on some lemonade and read a book. It doesn't matter what kind of books you like, or if you even normally read any. Your mind will wander all over the place and you'll feel much better than if you had stayed indoors and watched TV.

These are just 5 things I thought up. I'd love to hear more ideas! Please comment!