LEON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) — Keeping kids cool and entertained on a budget can be a challenge. But there are plenty of free or low cost activities in Leon County for parents in the Big Bend.
Cool water. It's the number one place kids want to be when the weather gets hot. But entrance fees to water parks can be over $40 per child.
There are other ways to chill out on a budget, like the interactive water fountain in Cascades Park.
"It's actually really convenient," said Morgan Lawrence, who was out at the fountain with her child. "Like, I didn't have any cash on me today. I was with my mom and I thought what am i going to do today with [her child]. "It's so hot outside and I remembered Cascades Park. It's right down the road, it's so convenient and it feels good."
City of Tallahassee public pools are another low cost way to chill on a hot summer day for under $5 per child.
A daily pass to Trousdell & Jack McLean Aquatics is just $4 for kids one to 16 and Wade Wehunt, Forestmeadows, Robinson-Trueblood, Walker-Ford and Levy are only $1 per child up to age 16.
For a little indoor entertainment in the comfort of AC, check out the Leon County Public Library's Story Time weekly reading events. There is Baby Story Time for babies and toddlers up to age 3, Preschool Story Time for ages 3 - 5, and Family Story Time for all ages. There is also a program where kids ages 5 to 10 can watch performances.
The Challenger Learning Center has free events for children and museums around the city are also free, so you don't have to spend a lot or in some cases any money to entertain your kids this summer.
"The reason I love it here is because it's free. People can come here without paying and they can just come and have a good time for an hour or two hours," said Kason Hodges, a 2nd grade student.
You can also check out the Historic Capital Building for free and enjoy the view from the 22nd floor.
