FREE THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN HAMILTON, HALTON AND NIAGARA
Fun times don’t have to cost a fortune! And there is no rule that says making memories needs to cost all your moolah!
We are huge fans of frugal around these parts, so we know a great deal when we see one! Here are some of our most favourite free and cheap activities for families in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville. Everything from indoor fun on a budget, to all the reasons your local library is the biggest bang for your buck! Free drop ins, free sightseeing ideas, and of course, all of the restaurants where kids eat free.
Try one, or try them all! And save your pennies when you do!
FREE EVENTS HAPPENING THIS MONTH
Look At All These Free Events!
Get ready to create family fun and let your imaginations run wild, all while keeping your wallet happy. Discover free things to do with kids that guarantee family bonding! We have combed our events calendar to bring you all the best FREE kids’ events near you. Use this calendar to find free things to do today or free things to do this weekend!
Free And Cheap Things to Do With Kids
Splash Pads, Outdoor Pools and Wading Pools in Burlington
Spend your summer cooling down at a Burlington splash pad (sometimes called splash parks or spray pads). Most of them are free summer activities! If you need a bigger refresh, we love the outdoor pools in Burlington. They offer waterslides, climbing walls, and they feel like local water parks.
Kids Bowl Free This Summer! Here’s How To Score This Deal
Select bowling alleys across Canada and the US offer free bowling for kids during the summer. Register on the website (linked below) to receive coupons for 2 games of bowling every day, all summer long. Read on for where and how to take advantage of the program in Halton and Hamilton.
Cheap Birthday Parties – Kids Birthday Party Ideas That Don’t Break the Bank
With a little creativity and some smart planning, you can throw a memorable celebration your child will love…without blowing your budget.
Victoria Day Fireworks and Events: Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
Hellooooo Summer! Victoria Day is the (un)official kickoff to our Canadian summer, and it couldn’t come at a better time! This weekend you can enjoy Victoria Day fireworks, festivals and more fun events happening all weekend.
The Ultimate Guide to Summer Festivals in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara (2026)
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves the lively atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at these festive gatherings.
Natural Playgrounds Near Burlington and Hamilton
There are so many natural playgrounds near Burlington and Hamilton, and visiting one with a picnic in tow makes for an excellent and inexpensive spring or summer day! Read on and find your weekend play destination.
Free Things To Do With Kids This Month!
This month brings us a sandbox full of free things to do with kids, too. Whether you’re looking for educational outings or fun adventures, there’s something for every family.
Ride the Antique Carousel at Lakeside Park
Take a trip back in time when you ride the antique carousel at Lakeside Park in Port Dalhousie. It really is a thing of beauty and nostalgia.
Where To See Trains: 8 Places in Halton, Hamilton & Beyond
Wondering where to see trains nearby? If you’re a train enthusiast or simply love the charm of locomotives, you’re in luck! There are several fantastic places near you where you can witness the beauty of trains up close. Here’s a list of must-visit locations.
Jaycee Park in Mississauga is “Super-Hero” Cool!
When you visit Jaycee Park in Mississauga, your kids are sure to think this is the “Best Park Ever!”. In addition to the unique playground equipment, the vibe gives off
Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails Near Hamilton and Halton
These Halton and Hamilton hiking trails are the perfect inexpensive way to spend a morning. Soak up some vitamin D and enjoy the calmness that nature brings.
Tansley Woods Park in Burlington Has Trails and a Japanese Garden
Tansley Woods Park and Playground is a great spot to spend an afternoon. The playground is great for all ages, and the paths make for a beautiful stroll. Where Is
Pier 4 Park in Hamilton Has a Tugboat!
Meet me at the pier – Pier 4 that is! This waterfront destination in Hamilton is full of reasons to visit from an amazing nautical-themed playground and is just a hop, skip and a jump from the famous Theodore Tugboat Too!
LaSalle Park in Burlington – You Gotta Go Here
LaSalle Park in Burlington’s west end is one of our favourite parks to visit. It’s got an upgraded playground that kids love, vast amounts of green space and of course, easy access to the marina and waterfront.
Best Skate Parks in Oakville for Kids & Teens
Oakville is home to five outdoor scooter and skate parks, spread throughout the town. They vary in size and style, but all pack a punch of fun and exercise for kids on wheels. We have details on what each one offers so you can choose the coolest one for your little thrashers.
Best Skate Parks in Hamilton for Kids, Teens & Beginners
Looking for the best skate parks in Hamilton? Whether your kids love skateboarding, scootering, or BMX, Hamilton has a great mix of parks for every skill level—from beginner-friendly setups to
Paletta Lakefront Park and Mansion
Nestled behind a stone wall and manicured shrubbery sits Paletta Mansion, at Paletta Lakefront Park in Burlington. The grounds make for a peaceful place to stroll, and the mansion is ideal for the specialist of occasions. Come with us on a mini tour of Paletta Lakefront Park.
Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park – Visit Today
This beautiful park has something for everyone, no matter their age or interest. Dog parents love strolling through the grassy waterfront with their pooches. Coffee talkers utilize the paved paths and beautiful scenery, including a marina and more sailboats than you can shake a stick at.
Andy Warburton Park in Hamilton: A Hidden Gem for Family Fun
If you’re looking for a park that checks all the boxes for a fun, low-stress outing with kids, Andy Warburton Park in Hamilton deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunts for Kids
You’re going to love these outdoor scavenger hunts to add a mission and destination to your next family walk. Grab the kids and maybe a pair of binoculars and enjoy these nature scavenger hunts.
Stroller-Friendly Trails Near Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville
Here are some of the best-loved and most recommended stroller-friendly trails in Burlington, Oakville and Hamilton. We asked our followers with wee ones where they love to walk with their wagons and wheels.
Parent Support Groups and Social Programs
Parent support groups and social programs for new parents are a great way to connect with parents in the same stage of parenthood as you are. New parents, experienced parents,
The Best Family Board Games For Every Age – Updated for 2026
Board games are a great way to make some serious memories with your family, and a staple at our house. Here are our favourite family board games.
7 Reasons To Visit Cherry Hill Gate This Weekend
This nature reserve beckons outdoor fans, offering a perfect blend of wilderness, charming hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere. Come along with us as we delve into the wonders that await visitors at Cherry Hill Gate.
Fishing in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and More
If you are asking yourself “Are there any great fishing spots near me?” then you are in the right spot. With the help of our amazing community of readers, we’ve
Free Fishing Weekend 2026 in Ontario
Ontario has planned four Free Fishing weekends. These are times when you can fish without a licence. They are a great reason to get out with the kids and try your hand at angling.
How To Borrow Free Parks Passes From Your Library
Your library has free family passes to local conservation areas, Ontario Parks and botanical gardens. Here is how to borrow them!
Free and Cheap Things To Do With Kids In Hamilton
Having fun with kids in tow doesn’t have to cost a lot with these free and cheap things to do in Hamilton. Hamilton is such an excellent place to explore
The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Burlington
Welcome to our guide to the best playgrounds in Hamilton! Whether you’re a local parent or visiting the Hammer with kids, discovering the perfect play spot is essential.
The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Hamilton
Welcome to our guide to the best playgrounds in Hamilton! Whether you’re a local parent or visiting the Hammer with kids, discovering the perfect play spot is essential.
The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Oakville
From sprawling parks with exciting equipment to hidden gems tucked away in neighborhoods, Oakville offers a variety of outdoor adventures. Explore our curated list of playgrounds that promise fun-filled days and endless smiles for your little ones.
Easy Crafts and Experiments For Kids
These simple activities can be done with things you (probably) already have around the house. The hands-on fun double as educational, but don’t tell the kids! Let’s go!
Free and Cheap Things To Do in Burlington With Kids
Some are well-known places to visit and some are hidden gems only the locals know about. We are bringing you our favourite free and cheap things to do with kids in Burlington. And expect this list to grow as we find more and more free, local adventures.
Tansley Woods Community Centre
Burlington’s Tansley Woods Community Centre is home to a full day (or more!) of fun for families. Come with us as Esther and her family tell you all the reasons
Art Gallery of Hamilton – How To Visit For Free!
The Art Gallery of Hamilton is one of the city’s best places to visit for families. And we have the scoop on how you can visit for free! Read on to find out.
Where Do Kids Eat Free in Burlington, Oakville and Milton?
“Where do kids eat free?” is one of the most frequently asked here at Active Parents, so we keep our list of places where kids can eat free updated! Turns
Kids Eat Free At These Hamilton Area Restaurants
We love restaurants where kids eat free which is why we love this list of restaurants where kids eat free or cheap in Hamilton.
Where Kids Eat Free: Kitchener, Cambridge Waterloo, Guelph
Stop paying full price for those little people you take out to dinner! This is a list of the restaurants where kids eat free in Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo and Guelph.
Gage Park Greenhouse: Tropical Oasis in The Big City
The Greenhouse is located inside the grounds of Gage Park and playground and creates a warm, tropical oasis right in the heart of The Steel City. The Gage Park Greenhouse
15 Local Toboggan Hills: Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville
Tobogganing is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to keep kids entertained on a snowy day. Grab a sled and your snow pants and use our list to find a tobogganing hill in Hamilton and Burlington to visit.
23+ Outdoor Skating Rinks in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Outdoor ice skating rinks are a great place to take your kids in the winter. Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Hamilton each are home to multiple ice skating rinks, open all winter.
20 Things To Do With Toddlers At Home
We asked our toddler experts – parents! – how to keep a toddler entertained at home during the inclement weather. Here’s what they said. Toddlers are funny little humans who
3 Indoor Treasure Hunts For Every Age
We can help you keep them busy and engaged with these 3 printable indoor scavenger hunts. Recruit a big sibling to help run this adventure, or help a new reader follow the hunt on their own. No matter how you execute these hunts, they will help keep boredom at bay.
Best Places To See Fall Colours Hamilton and Burlington
October is the perfect time to watch the leaves in Ontario change from fresh green to warm, firey hues before the frost of winter rolls in. Here are our suggestions for the best places to see leaves change in Burlington and Hamilton.
Geocaching in Burlington and Hamilton: A Guide For Newbies
Geocaching in Burlington and Hamilton is a great way to spend time outdoors with your kids. It brings together walking in the fresh air, investigative skills and a scavenger hunt!
50+ Things To Do This Summer At Home
This summer doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg just because you have some kids to entertain! To help you make the most of your family time, we’ve got 50+ things to do this summer when you want to have fun without leaving home.
3 Great Spots for Creek Walking in Burlington
Creek Walking is one of the best ways to cool down in nature. Nothing is more refreshing and grounding than dipping your toes into cool, flowing water. Here are our
9 Beautiful Beaches Families Love Near Burlington, Hamilton
There are so many beautiful beaches in Hamilton and Burlington! Most are free or cost a small fee to visit for the day. You can’t go wrong with a trip to the beach near Hamilton or the surrounding area.
Family Pride Events
Family Pride Month events provide a platform for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, parents, and allies to connect, share stories, and amplify their voices. It is a time to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges faced, and envision a future where every family is valued and respected.
50+ Free Things To Do In The Summer + Printable
Active Parents has your Guide to 50+ things to do in the summer that won’t break the bank. Share this list of cheap and free summer fun with everyone you know and be the SUMMER SUPERSTAR!
Watch Free Outdoor Movies This Summer
Enjoy free outdoor movies near you this summer! Nothing tells you it’s summertime like the release of the movies in the park schedule. We’ve got the whole line-up here for you, so start popping that popcorn!
100 Days of Fun: Summer Event Calendars For June, July and August
Fill your summer break with FUN thanks to our June, July and August calendars that offer you something AWESOME to do every day!
Splash Pads and Pools in Oakville
Oakville has dozens of wet and wild splash pads and pools to cool down on summer’s hottest days. Whether you prefer a light mist, a big splash, or a sunny poolside to relax on, we’ve got you covered with our full list of the best spots to visit this summer.
Happy Rolph’s is a Free Animal Sanctuary Kids Will Love
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm in St. Catharines is a must-visit for families. Pack a lunch and bring the kids, because this is a day trip you’re going to want to add to your summer bucket list.
Splash Pads and Wading Pools in Hamilton
Just in time for the hot temperatures, splash pads and wading pools in Hamilton are opening up again for the season! You’re almost guaranteed to have at least one within
Disc Golf Courses Near You
Explore diverse settings for disc golf enjoyment! From serene parks and beachfronts to bustling college campuses and sports complexes, this list guides you to unique places to perfect your throws.
The Wonderlab at Toys R Us Burlington (Closed)
The Toys R Us Burlington location has had a serious glow up and families are going to love visiting even more now! Come along as we take you on a tour of the brand new FREE Wonderlab!
30 Easy Acts of Kindness for Kids
Kids are born loving and kind, and parents like us need to help them nurture and grow their compassion. That sounds like a big job but it’s actually super simple!
Where Do Kids Eat Free in Niagara?
If you want to know where kids eat free today in St. Catharines and Niagara, we got you! You can even find some eateries that offer daily or weekly kids eat free in the Niagara Falls area.
75+ Best Halloween Movies on Netflix Canada, Disney+ and Prime
Get ready for a spook-tacular Halloween season with our curated list of the best family-friendly Halloween movies on Prime, Netflix, and Disney+! We’ve scoured these streaming platforms to bring you a bewitching selection that promises a hauntingly good time.
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