Fun Low- to No-Cost Things to Do with Your Kid in PA

Keeping your kiddos occupied can be a challenge. Good news: there are tons of great low- to no-cost options for entertainment right here in our very own state of Pennsylvania. Below, you’ll find a few ideas and suggested locations for fun that will wear out the kids but won’t break the bank!

State Parks

There are 121 Pennsylvania state parks, spanning more than 300,000 acres of land. Run by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), these parks are as diverse as the unique geography that can be found in every corner of the state.

One of the best parts of Pennsylvania’s system of state parks is that using them is totally free! Except for paying for a campsite or renting a structure or equipment, you can enjoy the amenities these beautiful parks have to offer without spending a dime.

State parks obviously offer a plethora of hiking trails, usually with beginner levels and distances, so even the littlest feet can enjoy a walk through the woods. They often have playgrounds, water access, biking, or even boating activities. You can visit DCNR’s website to learn more and find the parks nearest to you!

Playgrounds

Have you ever met a kid who didn’t love the playground? We haven’t either. Playgrounds are wonderful opportunities for kids to burn off all their energy in a meaningful and safe way. Playgrounds are particularly useful in urban areas where backyards are tiny or non-existent or where green space is generally more limited than in a less populated area. They give kids a place to run, climb, swing, and imagine.

Pennsylvania has a long list of epic playgrounds. We’ve featured a few below.

• Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse, Philadelphia
  • A 6.5-acre playground and 16,000 sq. ft. playhouse are the hallmarks of this free, public park located in historic Fairmount Park. More than 120 years old, Smith features inclusive play spaces centered around the idea that supervised play improves the overall development and well-being of children.
• Blue Slide Playground, Pittsburgh
  • Found inside of Frick Park, Pittsburgh’s “woodland park,” the Blue Slide Playground is a favorite among dwellers of the Steel City. It’s aptly named with a big blue slide that winds down a hillside. Pro tip: bring some cardboard to increase your speed on the slide!
• Butterfly Playground, Scranton
  • Butterfly Playground is a part of the larger Nay Aug Park. In addition to the playground, Nay Aug Park contains a rose garden, swimming area, museum, zoo, and a large treehouse! The playground construction began in fall of 2021 and was designed intentionally to be a play space that’s totally inclusive of kids with special needs.
• Springetts Castle Park, York
  • Located just east of the city, Springetts Castle Park is a huge playground featuring two separate play areas: one for ages two to five and one for ages five to 12. Opened in 2017, the playground was built with children of all abilities in mind and is designed to encourage children physically and mentally to play differently.
• Panther Station Playground, Enola
  • Adams-Ricci Park in East Pennsboro Township is 82 acres of sports and outdoor activities for the whole family. Less than three years old, Panther Station Playground features two age-specific play areas and includes a special train-themed play structure. Multiple options for inclusive swings are present, as well.

Farms

One quarter of Pennsylvania’s total acreage is farmland. Notable agricultural products include: grains, fruits, and trees; dairy and other livestock products; greenhouse and nursery crops; and mushrooms! Because such a large percentage of the state is actively used for agriculture, no matter what part of the state you live in, you’re likely not very far from a farm of some kind.

Many farms offer regular tours or experiences throughout the year. Do a quick online search to find some farms near you that welcome visitors or have special programs for the public to participate in. The cost associated with farm visits is typically what you harvest from the farm yourself, like apples or pumpkins, or there might be a small fee that helps the farm remain accessible to the public.

Trampoline Parks

Kids have energy, there’s no doubt about that. And what better way to help them get some of that energy out than playing in a giant indoor park filled with trampolines! They’ll be delighted to jump to their heart’s content, and you’ll be delighted that they’re too tired to be crazy in the house later.

Trampoline parks do charge a fee, but many offer special discounts and deals for certain age groups or days of the week. Some even offer membership packages for frequent jumpers! Check the specific business’s website ahead of time to get the best deal possible.

PSECU is Here to Help You Achieve More

Sticking to a budget with kids doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fun! Pennsylvania offers plenty of affordable options for entertainment. We’ve got you covered for all the other opportunities to develop a budget or save money, too, with our financial wellness library, WalletWorks.