Listen, parenting is expensive. Between the endless snack demands, the birthday party circuit, and the 47 pairs of socks that somehow vanish weekly, your wallet is probably crying. But good news! Cleveland is packed with ways to keep your kids entertained that don’t involve selling a kidney.
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Parks & Playgrounds That Go Beyond a Swing Set
Cleveland Metroparks are basically our city’s backyard, and they’re FREE. Some of the best spots to let the kids run wild:
- Lakewood Park – Giant playground, scenic lake views, and a 3,600-square-foot Solstice Steps situation where you can pretend you're on vacation.
- Preston’s H.O.P.E. Playground Park – One of the biggest and most inclusive playgrounds in Ohio. Your kids will never want to leave (but you’ll eventually bribe them out with snacks).
- Squire’s Castle – It’s an actual castle. In the woods. Enough said.
Library Programs That Are Low-Key Amazing
Cleveland’s library system isn’t just about books. They’ve got free events, craft days, and even play spaces for kids who need to burn energy somewhere that’s NOT your living room. Check out:
- Cuyahoga County Public Library – Free storytimes, STEM activities, and events where your kids can touch weird science-y things.
- Cleveland Public Library’s Main Branch – There’s a whole children’s section designed to keep them entertained while you sip coffee and pretend you have your life together.
- Peninsula Library – From regular story times to Family Movie Night, there’s always something fun going on there!
Photo by Suad Kamardeen on Unsplash
Weird Little Spots That Kids Love (For Some Reason)
- A Christmas Story House & Museum – Your kids may not fully appreciate the movie, but they WILL love climbing under the “fragile” leg lamp and touching everything they’re technically not supposed to.
- Greater Cleveland Aquarium’s Touch Pool – Let your child befriend a stingray. It's the kind of experience they'll talk about for weeks.
- B.A. Sweetie Candy Company – It's a literal warehouse of candy. Prepare accordingly.
Photo by Vinicius "amnx" Amano on Unsplash
Free & Cheap Events That Don’t Suck
- Edgewater Live (Summer) – Live music, food trucks, and enough space for your kids to run around like tiny lunatics.
- Third Fridays at 78th Street Studios – Not necessarily for kids, but if your child enjoys chaotic energy and bright colors, this artsy event is a winner.
- Wade Oval Wednesdays – Outdoor concerts, food, and room for kids to roll around in the grass.
Photo by Arturo Rey on Unsplash
Parents, We Need Your Hacks!
Where do you take your kids when you don’t want to spend a fortune? Drop your favorite free & cheap Cleveland kid spots in the comments and let’s all help each other survive parenthood—without going broke. 🤣
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Talk Soon,
-Amy & the Clevelandish Crew 😍
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