100 Free Things To Do in NYC with Kids

There's always a cool new piece of public art to see and interact with in NYC. Photo by Jody Mercier

When it comes to free things to do in NYC, we're here to remind you that while raising kids in NYC can cost a pretty penny, it doesn't always have to. From free times to visit NYC's top museums and cultural institutions to restaurants where kids eat for free and stores where they can play for free, it's not too hard to find free things to do in NYC—you just need to know where to look. We do, and we're sharing our secrets with you on this list of 100 free things to do in NYC with kids.

Be sure to bookmark our Guide to Fun, Free Things To Do in NYC with kids and our Family Activity Calendar for more all-seasons entertainment on the cheap.

Best Cheap Places to Eat in Philly for Kids & Families (Under $10!)

Kid's get their own paper hats to match the workers at Nifty Fiftys. Photo by Cait Summer

Dining with kids can add up fast, not to mention the added difficulty of picky eaters. So, where can you take the whole family to eat without breaking the bank? Philadelphia area parents know the hidden gems, and we're happy to share them with you. Every eatery on this list of local favorites and offbeat finds includes kid-approved meals for under $10 and has been tried and tested.

Looking for more places to grab a bite in the Philly area? Check out our Restaurant Guide for more great places to dine out.

Free Museum Days (and Always Free Museums!) in Atlanta

Visit the second largest museum in the U.S. Air Force, the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robbins.

We have the scoop on FREE museums in Atlanta, as well as the ones that have certain free museum days throughout the year. Atlanta museums offer a great way to have fun, especially during freezing winters and scorching summers. Plus family-friendly museums spark the imagination, help develop observation skills, and expose children to a broader world. 

Free Museums in DC and Northern Virginia to Visit with Kids

The remodeled National Air and Space Museum is a sight to behold. Photo courtesy of the museum

Looking for free things to do in DC with kids? Bring them to one of the many free museums in the DC area that are engaging, fun, and provide a much-needed dose of culture. While many of these free museums in DC and Northern Virginia are Smithsonian institutions, there are also several other great ones relating to language and words, the US Army and Marines, and more.

Here are 18 free museums near DC that will excite kids of all ages and interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs to airplane and dinosaur fanatics. Some of these museum's have designated children's exhibits and/or play areas and free family programs like art workshops and storytimes.

Read reviews of some of these museums in our Museum Guide for Kids and Families in Washington, DC, and check out our guide to free things to do in DC with kids for more fun ideas that won't cost you a penny.

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