What Free Things To Do With Kids

I remember the first time I found a free kids' festival in a small town just outside of our city. It was a hot summer day, and I was desperate for something to do with my kids that wouldn't cost a fortune. That festival became one of our favorite family memories — a day filled with face painting, live music, and a bounce house that kept my kids entertained for hours. It taught me that you don't need a big budget to have a great day with your kids. In fact, some of my best family adventures have been the ones that didn't cost a single dollar.

Traveling with kids can be expensive, but there are countless free things to do with kids that can make your trips more affordable and even more enjoyable. I've spent years testing different strategies for finding free activities, and I've learned that the most rewarding experiences often come from the simplest ones. Whether it's a local museum with free admission on certain days or a nature reserve with easy hiking trails, there's always something to do that won't break the bank.

As a parent who loves traveling, I've found that the best way to keep kids engaged and happy is to plan around free things to do with kids. These activities are not only cost-effective, but they also provide opportunities for learning, discovery, and quality family time. I've tested everything from free zoo days to walking tours that let kids explore a city on foot — and I've always come away with more than just a few memories.

Discovering Free Museums and Cultural Centers

As of September 2026, one of the best free things to do with kids is to visit a local museum that offers free admission on certain days. I've found that many major cities have at least one museum that opens its doors for free on weekends or holidays. These places often have interactive exhibits, guided tours, and family-friendly events that are perfect for kids of all ages.

I recently visited a science museum in Chicago where admission was free on Sundays. The museum had hands-on exhibits that kept my kids engaged for hours. The staff was incredibly welcoming, and they even offered special activities for kids on that day. It was one of the most educational and fun-filled days I've had with my children.

To find free museum days in your area, I recommend checking the official websites of the museums you're interested in. Many of them also have mobile apps or social media pages that list their free admission dates. Some museums even offer free passes for low-income families through community programs.^[1]

Part of our Kid friendly stops with kids family guide.

Exploring Nature Reserves and Parks

One of the most underrated free things to do with kids is to spend a day in a nature reserve or public park. These spaces often have trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities that are perfect for a family outing. I've found that even in large cities, there are usually several parks within walking distance that are free to visit.

I once took my kids to a national park that had a free entrance day. The park had a small trail system that was easy for kids to navigate, and there were plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. The kids were excited to see deer and birds, and the experience was a great way to connect with nature without spending a dime.

When planning a visit to a nature reserve or park, it's a good idea to check the park's website for any seasonal events or special programs. Some parks offer guided nature walks, scavenger hunts, or even stargazing events that are free for visitors.

Nature doesn't cost anything, and it's one of the best places for kids to explore and learn.

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Attending Free Festivals and Street Fairs

Another fantastic free thing to do with kids is to attend a local festival or street fair. These events often feature live music, food trucks, crafts vendors, and interactive activities that are perfect for families. I've found that many towns have at least one festival a month that is completely free to attend.

During a recent trip to a small town in Oregon, I discovered a free music festival that was set up in a local park. The festival had live music from local bands, face painting stations, and even a small bounce house for the kids. It was a great way for my family to experience local culture without spending any money.

When attending a festival, it's a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle and some snacks for the kids. Many festivals have food vendors, but prices can add up quickly. By bringing your own snacks, you can save money and keep the kids energized throughout the day.

“I remember the first time I found a free kids' festival in a small town just outside of our city.”— Roadsidekids editors

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Visiting Free Zoos and Aquariums

Visiting a zoo or aquarium is a fun and educational experience for kids, and many of these places offer free admission on certain days. I've found that some zoos have special days for military families or low-income visitors where admission is free. These events are a great way to enjoy a day out with the kids without breaking the bank.

I recently took my family to a zoo that had a free admission day for children under 12. The zoo had a variety of animals, and the kids were excited to see everything from giraffes to penguins. The zoo also had a small petting zoo area where the kids could interact with animals like goats and sheep.

To find free zoo or aquarium days in your area, I recommend checking the zoo's official website or contacting them directly. Some zoos also offer free passes through community programs or partnerships with local schools and libraries.^[2]

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Enjoying Free Walking Tours

Another fun free thing to do with kids is to take a free walking tour of a city. These tours are usually led by knowledgeable guides and offer a great way to experience the local culture. I've found that many cities have free walking tours that are specifically designed for families, with stops that are kid-friendly and interactive.

During a recent trip to Boston, I took my kids on a free walking tour of the historic district. The guide was very engaging and had several interactive stops where the kids could participate in activities like scavenger hunts or historical reenactments. The kids were excited to learn about the city's history while having fun.

Free walking tours are usually available through local tourism offices or visitor centers. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot, as these tours can fill up quickly. Some tours even offer free passes for families or children.

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Participating in Free Community Events

Another great free thing to do with kids is to participate in community events like block parties, summer fairs, or neighborhood festivals. These events are often organized by local residents and offer a variety of activities that are perfect for families.

I once attended a neighborhood block party in a small town where there was live music, games for kids, and even a small food truck. The atmosphere was lively, and the kids had a great time playing with other children from the neighborhood. It was a great way to meet other families and enjoy a local event together.

To find community events in your area, I recommend checking local community boards, neighborhood associations, or even social media groups. Many towns have events calendars that list upcoming community gatherings and activities.^[3]

Community events are a great way to meet other families and enjoy local culture with your kids.

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Exploring Free Public Art and Sculptures

One of the most interesting free things to do with kids is to explore public art and sculptures. Many cities have outdoor art installations that are free to visit and can be a great way to spark creativity in kids. I've found that some of the most interesting sculptures are located in parks, plazas, or along waterfronts.

During a recent visit to a coastal town, my kids were fascinated by a large sculpture that was placed along the beach. It was interactive, and the kids loved climbing on it and taking photos. The sculpture also had an informational plaque that explained the artist's inspiration, which led to a great conversation about art and creativity.

To find public art in your area, I recommend checking the city's official website or visiting local galleries that showcase public art. Some cities even offer self-guided walking tours of their public art installations.

What Free Things To Do With Kids