Looking for free things to do with kids in Erie, PA? Whether you’re trying to stick to a budget, the kids are climbing the walls, or plans fell through, this guide is your go-to list of free family activities in Erie you can do year-round.
This page is designed to be useful year-round. Bookmark it now — future you will be grateful.
From the Editor: When Erie parents ask, “We need to get out of the house… but we don’t want to spend money,” these are the places and ideas that come up again and again.
Last updated:
January 2026
We review this list regularly, but hours and offerings can change. Please check with each location before visiting.
Quick links:
FREE indoor | FREE outdoor | Libraries & storytimes | Seasonal free fun | Quick “Where should we go?” guide
Always FREE Indoor Things to Do with Kids in Erie, PA
Perfect for snow, rain, wind, and those “we just need to go somewhere” days.
Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) — FREE
📍 301 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA
Interactive exhibits, a kids’ play area, and a scenic tower near Presque Isle.
More info: TREC visitor info
Asbury Woods Nature Center — FREE
📍 4105 Asbury Road, Erie, PA
Live animals, kids’ room, and a nature center you can visit during open hours (trails are a bonus).
More info: Asbury Woods visitor info
Millcreek Mall (Indoor walk + kid-friendly stops) — FREE
📍 5800 Peach St., Erie, PA
A classic cold-day move: get steps in, browse, and let kids burn energy with a change of scenery.
More info: Millcreek Mall
Always FREE Outdoor Things to Do with Kids in Erie, PA
Yes, even in winter (bundle up and lean into it).
Presque Isle State Park — FREE
Beach walks, trail hikes, sunset chasing, birdwatching, lighthouse views, and a million “why didn’t we come here sooner?” moments.
Tip: Winter beach walks are magical — just watch for ice and changing conditions.
Asbury Woods Trails — FREE
Trails are open during daylight hours, and it’s an easy way to get outside without spending anything.
Playgrounds & Parks — FREE
Sometimes the simplest plan wins. We keep a running list of favorite playgrounds and parks for Erie families.
Internal link:
[Add your “Erie playgrounds we love” article link here]
Libraries & Storytimes (One of the best FREE resources in Erie)Erie County Public Library (Five Branches) — FREE
Storytimes, activities, kids’ areas, and a perfect “easy plan” when the weather is gross.
More info: Erie County Public Library
Pro tip: Storytimes can be the “free outing” that saves your whole day. We track free storytimes and library happenings on Macaroni KID Erie.
Seasonal FREE Fun in ErieWinter: Sledding, snow days, and “let’s make the best of this” fun
Erie County’s Favorite Sledding Hills
Summer: Beach days + simple outdoor wins
Presque Isle is the obvious one — but summer also means playground picnics, splash pads, nature walks, and free community events.
A Guide to 12 of Erie’s Best Parks and Playgrounds
Quick “Where should we go?” GuideNeed indoor + free? Start with TREC, libraries, or Asbury Woods Nature Center.Need to burn energy outdoors? Presque Isle trails + playground stops.Need a plan in 10 minutes? Open our events calendar and filter for what fits today.
Have a free spot we should add? Email us at karam@macaronikid.com — we keep this guide updated for Erie families.
More helpful guides for Erie families:
Frequently Asked Questions About Free Things to Do with Kids in Erie, PAAre there really free things to do with kids in Erie year-round?
Yes! Erie has a surprising number of free options throughout the year, including libraries, nature centers, parks, Presque Isle State Park, and seasonal outdoor fun. While some activities are weather-dependent, there are always free choices available in every season.
What are the best free indoor activities for kids in Erie?
Some of the most popular free indoor options include the Erie County Public Library branches, Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC), Asbury Woods Nature Center, and Millcreek Mall for indoor walking and kid-friendly stops. These spots are especially helpful on cold, rainy, or snowy days.
Are there free things to do with toddlers and preschoolers in Erie?
Absolutely. Storytimes at local libraries, indoor play areas, nature centers, and short outdoor walks at Presque Isle or Asbury Woods are great options for younger kids. Many of these activities are designed specifically with toddlers and preschoolers in mind.
What can we do for free with kids in Erie during the winter?
Winter-friendly free activities include library programs, TREC exhibits, indoor nature centers, sledding hills, winter walks at Presque Isle (weather permitting), and seasonal community events. Erie winters can be cold, but there are still plenty of ways to get out of the house without spending money.
How often is this list of free things to do in Erie updated?
This guide is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect current options, seasonal changes, and new resources for Erie families. Because hours and offerings can change, we always recommend checking with each location before visiting.