Have you ever found yourself wondering: “Where can I find fun kids’ activities near me?” Family time is precious, and finding practical and entertaining children’s activities can sometimes be challenging. To help you make the most of your time with your little ones, we’ve compiled a list of fun kids’ activities that don’t need tons of preparation — and can be enjoyed in your neighbourhood.
So, the next time you find yourself with a free weekend, dive into our list of family activities near you…
1. Splash into fun with swimming
Visit your local pool for a day of swimming fun! It certainly promises excellent exercise, particularly when part of a regular routine. Been there, tried that? See what other options might be available in your area, such as inflatable obstacle courses and open-air swimming. You’ll be surprised at what the local sports centre puts on!
2. Fort-building challenge
Head to the forest, set a timer, and challenge your family to build the best natural fort using the surrounding materials. Great for developing motor skills, teamwork, and creative imagination! This could very well be one of the most accessible kids’ activities near you!
3. Nature walk for artistic inspiration
Take your little one on a forest walk to collect natural materials, such as leaves, sticks, and seeds. With some paper and glue, transform these treasures into incredible works of art! Take a look at our Adventurer's Nature Bag craft to help with this adventure!
4. Jumble sale
Still stuck for things to do with kids near you? Why not host a jumble sale with your little ones, involving them in the process of selling items they no longer need? This activity teaches valuable lessons about handling money and making decisions, all whilst having fun!
5. Visit a local farm or zoo
For a day brimming with surprises (and of course ice cream!), visit your local farm or zoo. Encouraging children to explore the natural world around them (including animal sanctuaries and nature reserves) inspires curiosity, wonder, and a nurturing sense of respect for wildlife that lasts a lifetime.
6. Conker hunt
It’s hard to beat the feeling of finding your very own, match-winning conker, gleaming among the autumn leaves! And since it’s that time of year, your kids will love foraging for them, before settling down to a traditional conker battle. Enjoy a day of fun and friendly competition — as family activities go, it’s one of the best!
7. Visit nursing home residents
This is a hugely rewarding experience that also benefits the local community. Engaging with the elderly not only brings smiles to their faces but also teaches your children valuable life lessons such as compassion and empathy. Remember to call ahead!
8. Back garden camping adventure
Still looking for fun kids’ activities near you? Pitch a tent in your garden and experience the joys of camping. Connecting with nature in this simple yet profound way is one of the most unforgettable family activities near you!
9. Library retreat
Dive into different worlds by taking your little one to your local library. Allow your child to find inspiration before encouraging them to pick up a few books and get reading. You can learn something new too — and inspire ideas for other family activities, such as storytelling!
10. Planting seeds
Develop your little one’s green fingers by planting flowers or vegetable seeds. Together, nurture them into growth — you could even ask your child to create their own watering calendar to prevent the soil from becoming dry. This builds a sense of responsibility and showcases the beauty of nature's cycles!
11. Museum-hopping adventure
Visit child-friendly museums to inspire your family — they’re often packed with fun activities! Encourage little ones to choose their favourite artefact and sketch it — promoting both curiosity and creativity!
12. Chalk art masterpieces
Grab some chalk (at toucanBox HQ we love jumbo chalk) and let your little ones create beautiful art on the pavement. Allow their imagination to run wild — and when you're done marvelling at their creations, wash them away with water to start anew!
13. Family bike or scooter ride
Exploring on wheels adds an extra layer of excitement to a weekend of family activities. Join your kids on their bikes or scooters for a day of outdoor adventuring!
14. Build a bird feeder
Help your little crafter to create a bird feeder and look out for the bird species that visit. Keep a checklist and inspire your child’s curiosity for the wildlife of their local area! Take a look at our Feathered Friends Bird Feeder craft to help with this activity!
15. Team sports extravaganza
Organise a fun-filled day of team sports activities in the park. Games like rounders, touch rugby, and cricket are not only great for physical activity and hand-eye coordination, but also encourage your family to work together and make memories!
16. Explore with public transportation
Together, jump on a bus and venture into unexplored areas of your local area. Discover interesting sights from the bus window and get off at any spot that catches your or your child’s eye. The next fascinating place you encounter could lead to a new and exciting adventure!
17. The Great Toy Race
Still have a collection of wind-up toys from yesteryear? Perhaps they’re lying in the garage or in the loft. Help your little one to gather them together for a thrilling toy race. Build a track indoors or outdoors, and let a championship of fun activities begin!
18. Rediscover playgrounds
Make it your (or your child’s!) mission to find the ultimate slide, swing, or climbing frame in your local area. Accompanying your little one to different playgrounds can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one!
19. Window shopping wonder
Admire artistic window displays with your child as together you wonder: "Who on earth would wear that?" A simple walk in the concrete jungle can be a delightful adventure for curious young minds!
20. New play date adventures
Still stuck for kids’ activities near you? Encourage your kids to make new friends by arranging play dates with different classmates. Sometimes, the most unexpected friendships lead to the most cherished memories. Step out of your comfort zone and let your children do the same!
Engaging in these fun kids’ activities not only provides entertainment but also strengthens family bonds. The key is to have fun together. So, grab your kids, pick an activity, and embark on a day filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments!
WHAT TO DO IF I DON’T HAVE THOSE THINGS NEAR ME
If you live in an area without a forest, park, or the other facilities mentioned (or it’s simply too hot, too cold, or too rainy to spend time outside), try to be a bit inventive: think about ways to adjust some of the activities to indoor fun. Ever wondered what your family museum might look like? Get designing indoors! For more ideas, check out our page on fun things to do at home.
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Edited by James Hickman
Primary school teacher and educational writer
James is a Primary school teacher and copywriter with over 5 years of teaching experience. Having taught not only in the UK but also in Italy and in Spain, he enjoys travelling and (having worked in architectural practice in Cambridge) loves crafting too!
