Free Activities for Kids to do in Canada
Keeping kids entertained doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re looking for ways to fill a summer afternoon, survive a rainy day, or create lasting family memories on a budget, there are plenty of free things for kids to do in Canada.
We all know that exploring nature trails, visiting parks, spending time at the beach, and attending community events are great free activities for families. But today, I want to share five other fun and free activities for kids in Canada that you may not have thought of. If you’re looking for affordable ways to keep your children active, engaged, and entertained, these ideas will help you create memorable family experiences all while staying on budget.
Bowling
Do your kids/grandkids love bowling? The Kids Bowl Free program is back this year! This fun program allows your children to enjoy two free games of bowling at participating bowling centres every day, all summer long! There are a lot of participating bowling centres too.
Find all the details about Free Bowling here.
The Home Depot Kids Workshops
Did you know that The Home Depot offers free monthly Kids Workshops? These are such a neat and fun experience. Kids are given a kit that holds everything they need to build a wooden toy. They build it there with parent or grandparent help. The Home Depot also provides paint for the kids to paint their creation if they want. Highly recommend!
Find more information here.
Rona Kids Workshops
More recently, Rona has started offering free kids workshops as well! Our family hasn’t tried these yet, but I bet they’re a blast. They aren’t monthly, but maybe about every two months.
Find more information here.
VIA Rail
This is so neat and I feel like it would be amazing to take advantage of for a unique way to travel! Children and youth aged 17 and under can travel for free in Economy class on VIA Rail when accompanied by an adult. Offer valid on Escape and Economy fares on all VIA Rail routes across Canada.
Find more information on VIA Rail.
Museums/Galleries
As part of the Canada Strong Pass, kids 17 and under, from June 19 to September 7, 2026, get free admission to national museums as well as select provincial and territorial museums and galleries.
Find more information here.
Which of these free activities for kids are you excited to try first? Did I miss anything? Leave a comment letting me know and I’ll add it to the list!
