Free Things to Do with Kids in Major Cities

Traveling as a family is exciting, but the costs can add up fast. Between flights, hotels, and meals, entertainment sometimes feels like one expense too many. The good news? Many major cities around the world are packed with family-friendly attractions that don’t cost a dime. From museums and zoos to parks and cultural events, you can create unforgettable experiences without blowing your budget.

This guide covers the best free things to do with kids in top U.S. and international cities, plus tips for saving even more on your entire trip with Save Club Membership and the Save Club Free Cash-Back App.

Family travel is about more than sightseeing — it’s about connection and memories. But let’s face it: four museum tickets or amusement park passes can cost as much as a night in your hotel. That’s where free attractions shine.

• Stretch your travel budget: Free activities mean you can allocate money toward meals or a special splurge.

• Balance fun and education: Many no-cost attractions (like science museums or historical landmarks) are both engaging and educational.

• Reduce pressure: When the activity is free, you don’t feel guilty if the kids only last 30 minutes before needing a snack.

Pairing these activities with Save Club Membership and the Save Club Free Cash-Back App means you’re not only saving on entertainment but also cutting costs on flights, hotels, and dining.

• Central Park: Playgrounds, trails, and seasonal events make this an all-day adventure.

• Staten Island Ferry: A completely free ride with views of the Statue of Liberty.

• Free Museum Days: Many museums, like the American Museum of Natural History and MoMA, offer no-cost or pay-what-you-wish times.

• Smithsonian Museums: Favorites include Air & Space, Natural History, and the National Museum of American History.

• National Zoo: See the giant pandas without paying admission.

• The National Mall: Iconic monuments and wide green spaces for picnics and play.

• Millennium Park: Snap a photo at “The Bean” and catch free concerts in summer.

• Lincoln Park Zoo: One of the oldest (and always free) zoos in the U.S.

• Chicago Riverwalk: Scenic walking path with art and free events.

• Griffith Observatory: Free entry plus incredible city and sky views.

• Venice Beach: Street performers, skate parks, and plenty of people-watching.

• Getty Center: World-class art and gardens with free admission.

• Disney Springs: A shopping and entertainment complex with free shows, splash areas, and the giant Lego store.

• Old Town: Weekly classic car parades and live entertainment.

• Local Parks & Splash Pads: Orlando is packed with free community water play areas.

• Golden Gate Park: Playgrounds, gardens, and trails rival Central Park.

• Fisherman’s Wharf: Street performers and sea lion spotting at Pier 39.

• Cable Car Museum: Learn the history of San Francisco’s iconic transport.

• Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, gems, and fascinating exhibits at no cost.

• Hyde Park: Boating, playgrounds, and plenty of green space.

• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace: A uniquely British (and free) spectacle.

• Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Free entry plus stunning views of the city.

• Jardin du Luxembourg: A beautiful park with playgrounds and puppet shows.

• Free First Sundays at Museums: Many major Paris museums, including the Louvre, open for free on the first Sunday of the month.

• Meiji Shrine: Peaceful grounds perfect for kids to explore.

• Yoyogi Park: Open lawns, family-friendly events, and even cosplayers on weekends.

• Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple: Vibrant atmosphere with colorful markets surrounding it.

• Even if your destination isn’t on this list, you can still find budget-friendly adventures:

  • Check city tourism websites: Most list free or low-cost events.

  • Look for “free days”: Museums, zoos, and gardens often open their doors once a month at no cost.

  • Search for festivals or parades: Many local events are family-friendly and free.

  • Use local parent blogs: Moms and dads often share the best hidden gems.

  • Stack savings with Save Club: Attractions may be free, but flights, hotels, and meals don’t have to be full price. With Save Club Membership, families unlock exclusive discounts, and with the Save Club Free Cash-Back App, you earn money back on travel and dining.

• Pack snacks and water: Avoid overpriced concessions by bringing your own.

• Use public transportation: Subways, buses, and city bikes save money and add to the adventure.

• Mix free and paid activities: Splurge on one big-ticket item (like a theme park) and balance the rest with free fun.

• Plan downtime: Free playgrounds and green spaces can be just as memorable as big attractions.

• Start with the Free Cash-Back App: It costs nothing, and you’ll immediately earn cash back on travel and dining purchases.

• Upgrade to Membership if you travel often: The monthly membership unlocks deeper discounts on flights, hotels, and restaurants, making it worthwhile for families who take at least one or two trips a year.

• Stack for maximum value: Combine Membership discounts + Free Cash-Back App rewards for double-layered savings.

Here’s where Save Club ties it all together. Families can choose from two powerful ways to save:

• Save Club Membership: Unlock exclusive deals on flights, hotels, and restaurants. Members access lower rates and family-friendly discounts not available to the public.

• Save Club Free Cash-Back App: Earn cash back on everyday travel and dining purchases. Whether you’re booking a hotel, grabbing dinner, or paying for flights, you get money back in your account.

• Stack Savings: Combine membership discounts with cash-back rewards for maximum value on every trip.

It’s flexible — you decide whether to stick with the free app, upgrade to membership for deeper discounts, or use both together for the best results.

What cities have the most free attractions for families?
Washington, D.C., London, and Paris top the list, thanks to free museums, parks, and cultural landmarks.

How do I find free museums near me when traveling?
Search “free museum days” plus your destination, or check the official website of each attraction.

Is Save Club free to use?
Yes — the Save Club Free Cash-Back App is completely free. Families who want deeper discounts can upgrade to the Save Club Membership for exclusive deals on flights, hotels, and restaurants.

Does Save Club work internationally?
Yes — both the membership and the Free Cash-Back App work for U.S. and international trips, from hotels in Europe to restaurants in Asia.

Big city adventures don’t have to mean big spending. With Save Club’s Free Cash-Back App and optional Membership for exclusive travel, hotel, and restaurant deals, you can make every trip more affordable.

Sign up today — start with the Free Cash-Back App, or upgrade to Membership for maximum savings on your next family adventure.  Save Club helps you save before, during, and after your trip.