10 Almost Free Activities to do with your kids!
By: Sarah Lipoff
Updated: October 5, 2012
Story Time at the Library
Head to your local library for a relaxing and educational story time with your tot. Along with regular story times, libraries often have other organized events such as craft activities and visiting authors. Best of all, story time at your local library is completely free.
Feed the Ducks
All you need for this fun adventure are slices of stale bread and a spot where there are lots of birds. And throwing small bits and pieces of bread is also great for honing gross motor skills! Make the moment last by only offering your tot one slice for tossing at a time.
Free Gallery Day
Most museums offer a free day, making it the perfect day for exploring the galleries without the ticket price. Check this site for help finding local museums in your area and the days they are offering free admission. If you are planning on heading to a museum on a free admission day, arrive early to beat the crowds.
Host a Lemonade Stand
No matter the season, hosting a lemonade or bake stand is a wonderful way to spend the day or afternoon with your kids. Bake the goodies at home and then find the perfect spot to attract your friends and neighbors. The only cost is the purchase of the ingredients, which your tot might make back in sales - a perfect opportunity for introducing math concepts to them.
Pitch a Tent
Dust off the tent and turn your backyard into a camping adventure. Load up the blankets and pillows for an afternoon of outdoor fun. And if everyone's having a really great time, spend the night under the stars for a really memorable (and free) time.
Free National Park Days
It's not just museums that offer free admission days - national parks also have several days throughout the year that allow families in for free. The National Park Service will fill you in on the days that all national parks are free of admission. Expect a crowd on these special days, so pack some extra patience and lots of snacks.
Paint Rocks
All that you need for this just-about-free activity are rocks, paintbrushes, and a variety of acrylic paints. Cover your lil one in a smock and get busy painting rocks with vibrant colors and designs. Or create a few adorable bugs to adorn your entryway!
Visit the Putting Green
Head to your local golf course and pick up a bucket of balls for playing on the practice putting green. A few balls only cost a couple of dollars, and if you don't have a putter for your tot, the pro shop usually has a few for rent.
Go For a Ride
If your lil one isn't used to taking the bus, jumping aboard for a short ride to a fun destination is an exciting and cheap adventure. Check routes, times, and fees and set off on a bus trip with your tot that he'll be talking about for weeks.
Check Out a Local Football Game
Head to your hometown high school and catch a football game. Most schools only charge a few dollars for admission and have a small snack shack on the field, making rooting for the home team a cheap afternoon activity! Even if your tot isn't interested in the game, she'll have tons of fun cheering and watching the players!
