Our Favorite Free/Cheap Kid Outings

I would say we are quickly approaching the hazy, lazy days of summer (if they aren't already here), and with that comes the need to do something......ANYTHING with the kids to keep them busy and happy.  Here is our go to list of local (Dayton, OH) area activities for the kiddos.

Carriage Hill-money for candy

indoor play area great for super hot days (or rainy days.  It has wooden blocks, a Little House on the the Prarie style school house and kitchen to play in.  The kids LOVE it.


candy store Lots of candy to choose from for pennies (REALLY).  I usually bring a quarter or so and that gets several pieces for the kids and me, but if you are having a sweet tooth bring a $1 and get lots of candy.


animals You can't feed or really touch the animals, but you can get really close and get some amazing pictures.  The kids LOVE that the chickens just walk around the farm free and will walk right up to you.


picnic area outside the candy store there is a nice area with picnic tables.


fishing I can't say that I have ever partaken in this great sport and Ethan has enjoyed hanging out with Daddy and Papaw and catching some sea weed. :)


hiking There is paths around the pond as well as deeper into the woods.  We have always taken a stroller and done just fine as long as the ground isn't too wet.

Wegerzyn Garden-free

mini splash pad bring the water clothes and let the kids run through the water to cool off


sound garden instruments to play as you walk on a path through a almost maze like area  of bushes. 


water the plants simple yes, but the kids have a blast pumping the water and looking for the "water me" signs


sand box nice shaded area with different heights of sandboxes to meet the needs of kids of all ages

School Playgrounds-free

During the summer when school is out it is fun to pick different public schools and check out their play equipment.  

Tom Cloud Splash Pad-free

I know the new water park in Huber is amazing, but the Splash Pad is free!!! :)  Bring snacks and waters toys (buckets and such) and the kids will have a blast.

Air Force Museum-free (IMAX shows and simulator cost)

Bring a stroller There is a lot of walking so you will want a back up plan. ;)


Picnic area  There is a cafe inside as well as nice places outside for a picnic


Kid's Educational room  Ethan's favorite place!  Lots of fun stuff for kids to do.  We could probably just send the morning in this one little room


Planes to go through or sit in ask a volunteer about where these special planes are because they are always a highlight

Library-free

Crafts Our local library has a craft day once a week during the summer check with your local library for details.


Story time books, songs, sometimes crafts.  Call your local library for details


Play area our local library has puppets, puzzles, and such to play with that Ethan loves.  


Print this post