When the school-year routine is in full swing, families are always looking for easy ways to spend time together without spending money.
Below are 7 totally FREE things to do with kids and families right now in Springfield and nearby. These ideas are low-cost, low-stress, and actually doable. Perfect for busy weeks when simple fun is all you want. Which ones will you try first?
 Helena Lopes | Canva |
{XX} Free Things for Families to Do in Springfield Right Now
1. Explore Your Local Library
Libraries in Springfield are more than books; they’re a year-round, budget-friendly lifesaver. Look for free storytimes, LEGO clubs, STEM activities, reading challenges, teen hangouts, craft days, and surprise pop-up events.
➡️ Tip: Search your Macaroni KID Springfield calendar for library events. You’ll be shocked how many are free!
2. Check the Macaroni KID Springfield Events Calendar for Free Events
If you ever catch yourself saying, “There’s nothing to do,” this is your fix. Our Macaroni KID events calendar is packed with family-friendly happenings, and we include as many free events in the area as we can find.
➡️ Subscribe now and we’ll send you a free weekly newsletter with event highlights!
3. Play on a Playground or Go for a Hike
You don’t need a perfect forecast to get outside. Pick a local park, trail, or neighborhood loop in Springfield and go for a quick “fresh air reset.” Let kids hunt for pinecones, animal tracks, cool rocks, or “the best stick.” (Yes, that’s a thing.) Here are our three top favorite parks and playgrounds, all year round:
➡️ See our big list of playgrounds in Springfield!
4. Visit the Nature Center
The Springfield Conservation Nature Center offers free admission, free indoor exhibits, educational classes, and easy trails for families. It’s a great option when kids need to move but you’re not trying to spend money.
➡️ Start here: Springfield Conservation Nature Center
4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield
417-888-4237
Visitor Center is open Tuesday-Saturday, 8am - 5pm
5. Find a Free Museum Day or Community Admission Program
Some museums offer monthly free days, resident-free admission, “pay-what-you-can,” or library pass programs. It’s one of the easiest ways to do something that feels special, without paying full price.
➡️ Start here:
Greene County Library's Family Pass Program
Check out passes for up to 6 people to the Discovery Center or History Museum on the Square
Passes can't be put on hold, so call ahead to make sure they're available
You check them out and then use them within 7 days
We always include museum free days and other free family events on our calendar. Check it out here.
Want more family fun that doesn’t blow your budget?
Check out our partner site, CertifiKID, for deals on attractions, experiences, and family fun across the country.
6. Make a Free Scavenger Hunt
Turn an ordinary walk into a mission. Create a quick scavenger hunt: a red door, a heart sticker, a dog in a sweater, a street sign with your kid’s first initial, a bird, a funny mailbox — you get the idea. Kids love a checklist, and you’ll love how easy it is.
➡️ Try this Springfield-centric Scavenger Hunt around town!
7. Create a “Yes Day” at Home (Totally Free Edition)
If you need an easy win, do a mini “Yes Day” using free choices only. Let kids pick from a short list of free ideas like build a blanket fort, family dance party, board game hour, movie night at home, bake something simple, or “breakfast for dinner.”
➡️ Tip: Call it a “Yes Hour” if a whole day feels… ambitious.
Whether you’re planning ahead or need something to do this week, these free things for families in Springfield make it easy to spend quality time together without spending a dime.
