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One important note: Some destinations on this list require a nominal parking fee or, in the case of state parks, an Empire Pass to park for free.

What Are the Best Free Things To Do on Long Island with Kids?

1. Eisenhower Park – East Meadow

It's easy to spend the day at Eisenhower Park, often called the Central Park of Long Island. Our family likes to visit the multiple playgrounds, which also include a large accessible playground. The park has various shaded picnic areas and a splash pad in the summer to cool off. Families can also enjoy the long walking path, basketball courts, baseball fields, and more. Multiple events are set up here throughout the year.

2. Go Sledding

Once a heavy snow hits, there are plenty of free sledding hills to check out across all of Long Island. My kids love a snow day, and they can't wait to grab their sleds for a fun family day of winter wonderland fun! 

3. Jones Beach State Park – Wantagh

Similar to other state parks, Jones Beach is completely free during the off-season. Stroll the boardwalk, play on the playground, or collect seashells. My kids enjoy a day at the beach in any season. Mornings and sunsets are excellent times to visit with the kids. 

4. The Milleridge Village – Jericho

We always enjoy a visit to historic Milleridge Village for a fun stroll with the kids, to take some photos, and browse in the shops. The village is always free to walk around, but some of the seasonal activities do have a fee. The village bakery has delicious treats, so you may want to bring along a little money to enjoy a sweet bite. My kids cannot get enough of the bakery's homemade cinnamon bread!

5. Nautical Mile – Freeport

In the spring and summer, it's fun to walk with the kids on the Nautical Mile in Freeport. It's perfect for walking a stroller, young kids, your pup, and people-watching. If you're feeling inclined to cool off, you can stop by Ralph's Italian Ices for a treat, definitely a favorite for us. 

6. Visit Montauk

We absolutely love an adventure out in Montauk to hang out at the beach and visit the town. While some restaurants and shops are closed during the off-season, there is still plenty to do any time of year, and there are great photos to be had at Long Island's eastern tip in all seasons. 

7. Marina Park – Sayville

This romping spot is one of our favorite playgrounds on Long Island thanks to its expansive jungle gym, ninja warrior course, and more fun attractions for kids. Little ones will have a blast at this incredible spot. 

Free Outdoor Fun for Kids in Long Island 

8. Bailey Arboretum – Locust Valley

Explore the grounds of this serene arboretum. Each season brings something different, but spring and fall are especially beautiful to visit and walk around. 

9. Avalon Nature Preserve – Stony Brook

Avalon Nature Preserve is open year-round and free to visit. There are multiple trails to follow, ranging from .35 miles to 2.2 miles. This is a good spot for older kids and teens who enjoy the outdoors. 

RELATED: Guide to Playgrounds & Parks on Long Island

Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail at Belmont Lake State Park.

10. Belmont Lake State Park – North Babylon

Play on one of two playgrounds, fish in the lake, or ride bikes along the paved path. Belmont Lake State Park is free in the off-season from early September to April, after which fees are collected on weekends only until Memorial Day weekend. After that, fees are collected daily. 

11. Captree State Park – Bay Shore

In the off-season, and after 6pm in the summer, drop a line and see what you can catch off the fishing pier at Captree State Park.

12. Lake Ronkonkoma County Park

Suffolk County residents can swim, fish, play on the playground, and more for free at this county park. Families can spend the day enjoying the outdoors and time together. 

13. Uplands Farm Sanctuary – Cold Spring Harbor

Uplands Farm Sanctuary was once a dairy farm, and the original farm structures, including the silo, are still standing, though they are not operational. A fun place for little ones to see and learn about what a dairy farm looks like. 

14. Cold Spring Harbor State Park

My family loves Cold Spring Harbor. This unique park is perfect for nature-loving kids to immerse themselves in the outdoors. Large oak trees, with trunks over 3 feet in diameter, call this state park home. It's the perfect spot to observe spring and fall bird migrations.

RELATED: Free Museum Passes and More Perks From Your LI Library Card

Bayard’s beautiful scenery makes for great family photos.

15. Bayard Cutting Arboretum – Great River

This beautiful park sits right on the water. It's a great spot for taking family photos with your little ones, and you might even be lucky enough to spy some ospreys that nest on the property.

16. Brookhaven State Park – Ridge

Brookhaven State Park is the center of Long Island's Pine Barrens. This park is great for families who are serious about hiking, but don't expect playgrounds or picnic areas. Older kids and teens will enjoy a hike with family at this spot. 

17. Heckscher State Park – East Islip

It's easy to get lost in Heckscher's wooded trails, so keep a map or GPS handy. It's also a popular camping spot for families who love outdoor life! Another good spot for families with older kids and teens.

18. Caumsett State Park – Huntington

This state park is a treat, with long and meandering trails that are perfect for families who like to experience nature adventures together. When you reach the shore, the views of the bluffs are spectacular. 

19. Connetquot River State Park – Oakdale

Escape into nature at Connetquot River State Park, but watch out for the ticks living on the sizable deer population. 

20. Riverhead

There is plenty to do in Riverhead. Walk the historic downtown area and stroll along the riverfront with the family to explore the stores and area. 

21. Camp Hero State Park – Montauk

View the historic military installation and hike the wooded trails. The park has amazing surf fishing as well. 

22. Hither Hills State Park – Montauk

Located in Montauk, this is a great camping spot for the whole family. There is a playground, fishing, picnic areas, and walking dunes. Families can enjoy a full day of fun at this state park. 

23. Hempstead Lake State Park​ – West Hempstead

There are accessible playgrounds, hiking and equestrian trails, fishing, and more available in the off-season.

24. Wantagh Park

This park features multiple playgrounds, a long walking path, and spots to fish. Mini-golf and a swimming pool are available in the summer months for an additional fee.

RELATED: Long Island Beaches, Pools, and Water Playgrounds Guide

The lack of waves in Zach’s Bay at Jones Beach makes it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

25. Cantiague Park – Hicksville

Cantiague Park has multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and baseball fields. This is a great park for kids of all ages. In the summer, there is a pool for an additional fee. The pool also boasts a spray park and water slide.

26. Norman J. Levy Preserve – Merrick

On a clear day, trek the trail to the top of the former landfill, where you can get a view of the New York City skyline. While on your hike, you may spot foxes, birds, and the goats that call the preserve home.

27. Saddle Rock Grist Mill – Great Neck

Saddle Rock Grist Mill is one of the few tidal mills left in the entire country. The mill once ground corn and grain, and it overlooks Little Neck Bay. Kids can learn about the history of this mill. 

28. Christopher Morley Park – Roslyn

This extremely stroller-friendly park has paths that are smooth and wide. There is a large playground as well as basketball and handball courts. From mid-May to November, check out the farmers' market that operates on Wednesday mornings.

29. Michael J. Tully Park – North Hempstead

The park has a playground, a spray park, basketball, and a dog park.

30. Point Lookout – Hempstead

Families who love the beach, like ours, will truly enjoy time spent at Point Lookout. In the off-season, check out the beaches here for a nice walk. 

31. Cedar Creek Park – Seaford

This park has an archery range, multiple playgrounds, handball and basketball courts, and a roller skating rink. They also have pickleball courts, which have become a favorite for my daughter! 

32. Tanglewood Preserve – Lakeview

Located next to The Center for Science, Tanglewood Preserve is worth exploring with the family and has a wooded path as well as a stocked pond for those looking for a fishing experience. 

33. Newbridge Road Park – Bellmore

Newbridge Road Park is located at the very south of Newbridge Road in Bellmore. There is an updated playground, basketball and handball courts, as well as the Newbridge Arena for ice skating, though using the rink comes with an additional fee. After a snowstorm, check out the steep hill for some sledding.

34. Bethpage State Park – Farmingdale

Hiking, playgrounds, tennis courts, equestrian paths, and more are available at Bethpage State Park. My family enjoys a visit to this state park on a nice fall or spring day! 

35. Cow Meadow Park – Freeport

Located in Freeport on the water, this large park features handball courts, an updated playground, a fitness circuit, and water sports. 

Free Indoor Things To Do in Long Island 

36. Roosevelt Field Mall – Uniondale

This is the biggest mall on Long Island, offering lots of window shopping options, and a small play area on the concourse level of the mall for little ones to expel some energy. There's also a Lego Store where kids can practice their building skills. My son always has to have a few minutes in the Lego Store! 

37. Barnes & Noble 

Located across Long Island, Barnes & Noble is a favorite for us to visit. The bookstore offers free storytime events each week that are perfect for little ones and their caregivers to meet and socialize. My kids always loved a good storytime, and, of course, looking at all the books afterwards. 

38. IKEA – Hicksville

IKEA in Hicksville is a destination for kids and adults. There is Smaland, a supervised kid-friendly area which allows potty-trained kids to play while parents shop, although the maze of IKEA is an adventure in itself.

39. Long Island Children's Museum – Garden City

My kids love a day exploring LICM. Most local library cards will allow you free access to the museum with library passes. Check ahead about special exhibits and events at the museum. 

40. Broadway Commons – Hicksville 

This mall has a play area on the upper level near the food court, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Little ones can get some exercise, and you can take a break from shopping for a bit. 

41. Build at Home Depot

On the first Saturday of each month, Home Depot hosts a children's building event where kids can build different creations. Kids love creating something special at this workshop. Check ahead for details at your local Home Depot before your visit. 

42. Smithtown Library – Nesconset

A jam-packed events calendar means there's always something fun happening at this local library. Choose from programs like story time, Lego leagues, preschool dance parties, and more.

43. Westfield South Shore – Bay Shore

Do some window shopping at this local mall, then let kids burn off some energy in the play area in one of our favorite free places to play with babies and toddlers on Long Island.

44. Kids Eat Free Deals

My kids love to eat out! These Long Island restaurants offer free meals for kids. Additional purchases may be required, and some limitations apply—but something free is better than nothing in our book. 

Free Events, Fairs, and Festivals on Long Island 

45. Port Jefferson Village Ice Festival

Celebrate the magic of wintertime at this annual festival that includes photo ops, horse and carriage rides, ice skating, live music, and more. We love a day in Port Jefferson, and this festival is a very special event to visit. 

46. NYE Midnight on Main – Patchogue

Patchogue celebrates New Year's Eve annually with family-friendly fun, bounce houses, a DJ, fireworks, food, and more.

47. Farmingdale Village New Year's Eve Celebration

Plan early to celebrate the new year with Farmingdale Village on Main Street. Enjoy live music and wait for the ball to drop.

48. Town of Islip Summer Drive-In 

Every summer, the Town of Islip hosts a summer drive-in series, featuring different family-friendly movies at various parks. Kids will love this incredible experience and make lasting summer memories. Head over early for a good spot! 

49. Jones Beach 4th of July Fireworks

Don't sit in traffic on the Wantagh Parkway–head over to Wantagh Park instead. While you may have to park on a side street if you don't arrive early enough, you get a great view of the fireworks show at no cost.

50. Rockville Centre Saint Patrick's Day Parade

Celebrate Irish heritage and culture at this annual parade. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated in a big way in this town and the kids will love every minute of shamrock fun. Arrive early this parade is one of the best- attended outside of the NYC parade. 

51. Port Jefferson Annual Dragon Boat Race

The annual event celebrates Asian culture with vendors, food, and, of course, a dragon boat race. 

52. The Great Jack O' Lantern Sail – North Babylon

Each year the state parks department hosts this spooktacular event for free at Belmont Lake State Park. This is a unique adventure for the family to experience together. 

53. Alive After 5 in Patchogue

This summer staple usually begins in June and features live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, and more. 

RELATED: 55 Fun Things To Do in the Hamptons this Summer with Kids

Party the night away at Alive on 25 in Riverhead on Fridays in the summer months. Photo courtesy of the event

54. Alive on 25 in Riverhead

This event runs multiple Fridays in the summer. Main Street closes down, filling with people, vendors, activities, live music, entertainment, and more.

55. Greenport Cherry Blossom Festival

In May and June each year, walk through Greenport to see the bountiful blooms of hundreds of Cherry Blossom trees.

56. Massapequa Strawberry Festival

Sample summer's sweet treat at this annual festival sponsored by the local historical society. Expect plenty of free activities for the kids, raffles, entertainment, and–of course–strawberries!

57. Rock Hall Country Fair – Hempstead

This annual fair takes place at Rock Hall, a pre-revolutionary war home with farm animals, vendors, games, food, and more.

58. Music on Main – Farmingdale

This summer event happens in Farmingdale on Main Street. Enjoy live music, vendors, and food.

59. Babylon Block Party

Play games, listen to live music, and check out the local eats and vendors at Babylon's annual summer celebration.

Free Arts, Culture, and Learning Activities on Long Island

60. South Fork Natural History Museum – Bridgehampton

While you'll have to pay to visit the indoor exhibits and touch tank, the sprawling grounds are free to explore and connect to the Vineyard Field Preserve and Long Pond Greenbelt.

61. Nassau County Museum of Art – Roslyn Harbor

Exploring the sculpture garden, arboretum, and grounds does not require admission at this stunning Long Island museum. My kids really enjoy art and had a blast visiting and exploring this sculpture garden. The grounds of the museum are stunning in all seasons. 

62. Hofstra University Museum of Art – Hempstead

There are over 5,000 works of art in the museum, featuring ancient works up to modern-day. Art-loving kids will enjoy a day with the family here. 

63. Parrish Art Museum – Water Mill

Throughout the year, Parrish Art Museum offers different free programs for kids. Admission is always free for kids, and everyone can explore the grounds for free daily, too.

64. Lakeshore Learning – New Hyde Park

Long Island's only Lakeshore Learning store is in New Hyde Park. My family likes this store a lot, and each month it hosts free events for kids, from science experiments to building, and on the event flyer, there is even a coupon for an in-store purchase.

65. Heckscher Museum of Art – Huntington

The museum offers a suggested admission policy. It's nestled in Heckscher Park in Huntington, not to be confused with the state park on the South Shore. This is a staple for budding artists on Long Island. Each spring, there's an exhibit of the best work of Long Island's high school students.

66. Walt Whitman Birthplace and Historic Site – Huntington Station

Walt Whitman was not just a great poet from Long Island, but one who cemented a place in our nation's history. Check out Whitman's restored farmhouse birthplace, which is free for kids under age 5. Kids who love history will enjoy this site. 

67. Sagamore Hill – Oyster Bay

Tour Teddy Roosevelt's former property, spanning over 80 acres. Access to the beach, trails, and Old Orchard Museum is free, but there is a fee to tour Teddy Roosevelt's home. 

68. Planting Fields Arboretum – Oyster Bay

Planting Fields Arboretum's two greenhouses are great to visit all year round. In the warmer months, walk the grounds and view the magnificent blooms.

69. Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center – Oyster Bay

This is the nation's first songbird sanctuary. There are 13 acres of lush forest habitat to explore. 

70. Suffolk County Farm and Education Center – Yaphank

This farm is open year-round, only closing for two weeks December into January. Kids can immerse themselves in seeing a real working farm in action! Children under age 5 are free. 

Free Seasonal Fun on Long Island 

71. Winter: See Holiday Houses, Santa's Christmas Tree Farm, Hick's Christmas Children's Story

Load the family in the car to tour these Griswold-esque decorated holiday houses across all of Long Island. Some families really go all out! My kids wait all year for our annual visit to Santa's Christmas Tree Farm on the North Fork. It is FREE to walk around and take photos with Santa outside. There are some other activities that have a small fee. Another annual tradition for us is visiting the holiday adventure walk-through exhibit at Hicks. Kids can see a Christmas story, meet Santa, take photos, and drop off their letters to the jolly man.

72. Spring: Hick's Annual Flower Show

Hick's celebrates Spring in a big way with their annual flower show. My kids look forward to seeing the new theme, flower designs, and taking part in the scavenger hunt each year! 

73. Summer: Family Fun at the Jones Beach Bandshell, Movies on the Harbor

Jones Beach holds free movies and concerts at the bandshell all summer long. Families love to attend the performances and dance and sing along to the tribute bands. Head to the lovely family-friendly town of Port Jefferson for an alfresco movie night come summer.

74. Fall: Otto the Ghost Animated Story, Visit a Pumpkin Farm

Meet Otto the ghost and hear his story each fall for free at Hick's Nursery in Westbury. This family-friendly destination in all seasons has lots of photo opportunities, so don't be afraid to dress the kids up. Many of Long Island's pumpkin farms do not charge a fee to walk around or take fun fall pictures with the kids! 

Top Free Things To Do with Toddlers on Long Island

75. Ria Del Bene Memorial Playground – Westhampton Beach Village

My kids love this pirate ship-themed playground in Westhampton Beach Village. The interactive playground is designed with various activities for little ones to enjoy. My kids always spin, climb, and slide their way to a fun time! Bonus: Parents can take a nice walk in the town after some playground fun. 

76. Visit the Library

My kids have grown up visiting libraries across Long Island, from Nassau to Suffolk. Most libraries have amazing play areas and programs, especially for younger kids. Check out our list of Long Island libraries with great FREE play spaces. 

77. Rocketship Park – Port Jefferson

This local Port Jefferson park is sure to inspire any space-lover's creative play. Kids will have a blast pretending to head to space at this rocketship-themed adventure. 

78. Hit a Local Splash Pad

Fight summer's heat with a trip to one of these local splash pads, most of which are free. My kids loved this newly renovated playground and splash pad in Garden City Park to cool off! 

79. Sunken Meadow State Park

There are two large playgrounds, as well as a small boardwalk, before reaching the beach. A highlight of this state park is the pirate ship playground. Visit during the off-season or in the evenings in the summer to avoid fees.

80. Stew Leonard's

A trip to this grocery store is no regular shopping trip. My kids always get a kick out of seeing the singing chickens, other characters, and scoring some samples. Keep an eye out for free fun events throughout the year, like its annual trick-or-treat trail with costumed characters.

81. Magnolia Park Playground – Long Beach

The newly erected playground has state-of-the-art equipment, including a large, multi-person swing that's handicap accessible. Even crawlers can get in on the fun at this playground.

82. Garvies Point Playground – Glen Cove

While you're in the neighborhood, be sure to visit this spectacular playground that opened in 2021. We love the sail-shaped climbing tower!

83. Old Bethpage Village Restoration

A visit back in time at Old Bethpage Village is both fun and educational for the entire family. Kids 4 and younger are free. 

84. Phelps Lane Park Playground – Babylon

Pop by in any season to this pirate ship-themed playground for a fun day of activity at the park. Kids will love to role-play at this fun playground. 

Top Free Things To Do with Tweens and Teens on Long Island

85. The Hamptons

While it may be expensive to live in the Hamptons, it doesn't cost anything to visit. Check out the beautiful beaches in season or off-season, walk through the charming towns, and window shop the stores. Tweens and teens will be delighted to hang out in the trendy towns and at the beach. 

86. Long Beach

Walking around Long Beach can feel like California dreamin'. Its beaches, multiple playgrounds, and long boardwalk are a must-do for all Long Islanders. My family has always loved Long Beach, and a day at this beach is always a treat. 

87. Quogue Wildlife Refuge

My family loves visiting the Quogue Wildlife Refuge out East. There are 7 miles of trails to explore, plus an outdoor area housing injured and rescued wildlife, like owls, a fox, and more. Inside the nature center, you can find more wildlife exhibits for the kids to explore. My kids like to see the animals and explore the refuge grounds and the butterfly garden. 

88. Oyster Bay

Oyster Bay is nestled on Long Island's picturesque north shore. Walk Main Street, stop by the beach to watch ships sail and dock, or check out the Oyster Festival in the fall.

RELATED: Family Guide to Hamptons & North Fork

Stop by the Big Duck in Flanders for a picture with a Long Island landmark.

Hidden Gems To Do on Long Island with Kids 

89. Big Duck – Flanders

This Flanders landmark is always an exciting stop for our kids. Who doesn't love taking a picture with a giant duck? Plus, this duck gets a holiday look for the season, making it a fun stop during Christmastime. 

90. Clark Botanic Garden – North Hempstead

Clark Botanic Garden is completely free. The garden, which is open year-round, highlights the local fauna of Long Island and features a rose garden.  This feels like a secret garden to explore with the kids, and we love it! They also feature seasonal fun events. 

91. Visit Greenport

This is a favorite town for us on the North Fork year-round. Located on the North Fork, Greenport is a quaint town with lots to see and do, including stunning views of the sound and a walkable Main Street. 

RELATED: Best Museums for Kids on Long Island

Staff will happily help you explore the touch tank at Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center.

92. Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center

Admission to the Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center is FREE year-round, though in the summer months, there is a parking fee. This nature center offers a wonderful touch tank where children can pick up everything! My kids have been several times and love exploring the touch tank and learning all about Long Island's coastline. 

93. Cedarmere

Walt Whitman wasn't the only famous poet to call Long Island home. Visit Cedarmere to see the magnificent grounds, mansion, and buildings of the romantic poet William Cullen Bryant.

94. Robert Moses State Park

Robert Moses State Park is much quieter than Jones Beach, and there is a shorter trek down to the water from the boardwalk. However, its boardwalk and amenities are not as expansive as Jones Beach's.

95. Fire Island

Walk from Robert Moses State Park to explore parts of Fire Island inaccessible to cars. Don't forget to stop by the lighthouse.

96. Tackapausha Museum and Preserve – Seaford

This environmental education center has interactive learning fun, live exhibits, and a nature-centric outdoor playground area. 

97. Railroad Museum of Long Island Holiday Open House – Riverhead & Greenport

Spend a winter weekend at the Railroad Museum of Long Island to see model trains and visit Santa.

98. Garvies Point Museum and Preserve – Glen Cove

Garvies Point Museum and Preserve is on the north shore of Long Island, with beautiful views of the coastline. The museum offers plenty of children's programming and extensive informational exhibits on Native Americans and, for those in the area, the local library offers free admission passes with your library card.

99. Cradle of Aviation Museum – Garden City,

Your library card will gain you free entry to this incredible museum for up to four people. A fun soft play area is perfect for little ones to enjoy, while older kids will love exploring the rest of the museum exhibits and aircraft. This museum also offers special seasonal events, so be sure to check out their website and social media throughout the year. 

100. Go Fishing

Take advantage of the sandy shores to drop a line at one of these local fishing spots. One popular charter boat company in Port Washington, The Angler Fleet, even offers summer camp options for kids who love to cast a line. A true hidden gem activity on Long Island for kids! 

Free Fun for Kids in Long Island FAQ

1. What are the best free family activities in Long Island?
Parks, some museums, outdoor concerts, and festivals offer plenty of no-cost family fun across Long Island. A few of our favorites are the pirate-themed Ria Del Bene Memorial Playground in Westhampton Beach, visiting the splash pad at the newly renovated Garden City Park playground to cool off in the summer, and exploring the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, especially in the fall. 

2. What can kids do for free on weekends in Long Island?
Check out local libraries, recreational centers, and community calendars for free crafting events, shows, concerts, and seasonal festivals. 

3. Are there free museums or attractions for kids in Long Island?
Yes! Many museums have free admission passes available through your local library with your library card. A day at a museum is a perfect idea for a rainy day! The Long Island Children's Museum has incredible exhibits and educational fun. Another favorite for us is a visit to the Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center! 

4. What are some free things to do in Long Island with toddlers?
Storytimes, splash pads, indoor playgrounds, and nature walks are all toddler-friendly and free. Check out our list of free places to play on Long Island with babies and toddlers. 

5. What's the best time to visit free attractions on Long Island?
Weekday mornings are often the least crowded for most attractions and ideal for toddlers not yet in school or summer camp. Weekends can be busy, especially in the summer, depending on the events. Plan ahead to arrive early for outdoor events to secure parking and nab shaded areas. 

Unless noted, photos by the author. Writer Jennifer Voit contributed to the 2026 article update.