WanderSmart Families: Big Adventures on a Budget

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to drain your bank account or your energy. Whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, every city has budget-friendly gems perfect for families. Here’s a list of go-to activities that are easy to plan and won’t break the bank—plus some free favorites from popular cities!

🏛️ 1. Museums: Culture Without the Cost

Many cities offer free admission days or discounted family passes to local museums. Keep an eye on calendars and time your visit to save.

• Chicago: Free admission days at the Field Museum and Museum of Science and Industry (especially for Illinois residents).

• Washington, D.C.: Nearly all the Smithsonian museums (including the Air and Space Museum and Natural History Museum) are free year-round!

• Seattle: Monthly free days at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) and Seattle Asian Art Museum.

• St. Louis: The St. Louis Science Center and Art Museum are always free.

💡 Tip: Google “[City] free museum days” before your trip to find hidden gems.

⚾ 2. Baseball Games: Big League Fun on a Budget

Pro baseball games can be surprisingly affordable—especially weekday or promotion nights. Look for:

• $1 hot dog nights

• Kids run the bases events

• Family packs that include food and tickets

• Free tickets for kids under a certain age

Bonus Tip: Check out Minor League or Triple-A teams for even cheaper tickets and a super family-friendly vibe.

• Tulsa Drillers (OK): Minor League fun with tickets starting at just $8.

• Atlanta Braves: "Kids Run the Bases" Sundays at Truist Park.

• Milwaukee Brewers: “$1 Kids & Senior Days” with reduced prices on select weekday games.

🌳 3. Parks & Playgrounds: Nature’s Free Playground

Parks are a traveler’s best friend—always free, always fun, and every city has a few standouts.

• Tulsa: The Gathering Place is a must-visit—totally free and filled with imaginative play areas, water features, and live performances.

• Portland, OR: Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the U.S. with family-friendly trails.

• New York City: Central Park has free playgrounds, performances, and summer movie nights.

🐾 4. Best Free Zoos in the U.S.

Yes—free zoos are real, and they’re amazing! Here are some of the best zoos in the country where your family can enjoy a wild adventure at no cost:

• St. Louis Zoo (Missouri): Often ranked among the best zoos in the country, this massive zoo in Forest Park is completely free—with 14,000 animals and kid-friendly exhibits.

• Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago, IL): Located just north of downtown, this charming, walkable zoo is free year-round and offers views of the skyline alongside lions, monkeys, and penguins.

• Smithsonian National Zoo (Washington, D.C.): Part of the Smithsonian network, this zoo is free and home to over 2,000 animals, including giant pandas.

• Como Park Zoo (St. Paul, MN): A small but lovable zoo attached to a conservatory and gardens—free to enter, with a suggested donation.

🐒 Pro Tip: Even if a zoo isn’t totally free, many have “Free Family Days” or steep discounts for local residents—check the calendar before you go!

🎶 5. Free Events & Festivals

Time your trip with a local festival, outdoor concert, or public movie night.

• Austin, TX: Blues on the Green – free outdoor summer concerts.

• San Francisco, CA: Stern Grove Festival – free weekly summer music performances.

• Boston, MA: Shakespeare on the Common – free plays in Boston Common.

🧭 Pro Planning Tips for Budget Family Fun:

• Download the AllTrails app for free nature walks and hikes wherever you are.

• Join local city Facebook groups or tourism board pages—they often share last-minute free events.

• Pack snacks and water so you’re not stuck paying premium prices on-site.

• Use CityPASS or Go City Cards when available—they can cut your museum or attraction costs in half.

Your family doesn't have to fly first class to have first-rate memories. With a little research and a flexible attitude, you can find fun, cheap, and easy adventures in every city.