Nothing screams summer quite like a lemonade stand on the side of the street. This summer activity takes parents on a trip down Nostalgia Lane while allowing little entreprenuers to practice skills in money counting and socializing. To help your kiddos whittle away the summer afternoons, how about setting up a lemonade stand with a twist — offer something different than lemonade! Inspired by some of San Diego’s hot spots, here are a few ideas that let your munchkin set up shop and enjoy different city spots this summer.
Photo credit: Cindy W. via Yelp
Puppy Treats and Water Stand at Dog Beach
If your wee one loves dogs as much as we do, Dog Beach is a must. Located in super-chill Ocean Beach, it was one of the first official leash-free beaches in the country. This mile-long beach boasts a dog run, rock jetties, and a volleyball area. Your pup customers will be barking for water and tasty treats, so bring plenty! If you and your mini-me feel like making homemade dog treats, try this great recipe. Consider handing out free treats to puppies that perform tricks! Don’t forget to bring reusable bowls for Fido to lap up his water!
Insider’s Tip: If you feel like mixing up your day, the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier is open to the public for fishing and walking.
West Point Loma Blvd. and Voltaire St.
Online: oceanbeachsandiego.com
Photo credit: ChrisDag via Flickr Creative Commons
S’mores Supply Stand at Mission Bay Park
Roasting summertime s’mores alongside Mission Bay is a tradition for San Diego families. If your little one loves sweets, consider a s’mores supply stand complete with all the fixings: graham crackers, milk chocolate and marshmallows. For a delicious twist, add extras like peanut butter cups, peppermint patties, salted caramel squares and dark chocolate. All you need to do is gather the supplies, pop up a table and set your pricing.
Insider’s Tip: No meltdowns allowed! Don’t forget a cooler to keep your chocolate from melting in the summer heat. Parking is free; but get their early to get a spot.
2688 E. Mission Bay Dr.
San Diego, Ca 92109
Online: sandiego.gov
Fresh Fruit Stand at Glorietta Bay
One of our favorite kid-friendly summer hangouts is Glorietta Bay, which offers breathtaking views of the Coronado Bridge and San Diego skyline. Parents and their little pals love this bay because it has it all —a beach, dock, playground, grass-filled park and restrooms! Why not help visitors celebrate summer with juicy and delicious fruit? Parents will appreciate your healthy assortment of seasonal fruit like berries, melons, oranges and peaches that you can pick up at a local farmer’s market.
Insider’s Tip: Older siblings ages 6-years and up can catch some concrete and the Coronado Skate Park across the street.
Glorietta Blvd. and Mullinix Dr.
Online: coronado.ca.us
Photo credit: Leah Singer
Lemonade and Energy Bar Stand at Tecolote Canyon Trail
Tecolote Canyon offers some of the most family-friendly trails around San Diego. Hikers can find trails that range from flat, dirt roads for easy-going walks to steeper inclines for a good workout. Your little trail blazer can offer ice cold lemonade and energy bars to visitors this summer. For a healthy and delicious power bar recipe, try this.
Insider’s Tip: There are many picnic tables along the trails you could use to setup your stand. Just make sure to pack your goodies in a roll-away cart for easy transporting!
5180 Tecolote Rd.
San Diego, Ca 92110
Online: sandiego.gov
Good to Know
- Teach your little ones a humanitarian lesson by encouraging them to donate proceeds from their summer stand. Through Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, your family can be part of this national movement to fight childhood cancer “one cup at a time.” Be sure to register your lemonade stand’s location, date and time. You’ll receive a free fundraising kit in the mail and a personal fundraising coach to assist you with any questions.
- Before getting started, find out what the rules are in your specific area for setting up sales stands. You may be required to obtain a permit or comply with regulations.
Got more ideas to add to the collection? Tell us in the comments below what ideas you have for summer fun!
—Elizabeth Silva
