Fun & Affordable Places to Take 7-Year-Olds Near Morris, IL This Weekend
Looking for a way to keep two energetic 7-year-olds entertained for a few hours without breaking the bank? Morris, Illinois, and its surrounding areas offer plenty of budget-friendly options for families. Whether you’re up for outdoor adventures, creative play, or hands-on learning, here’s a roundup of spots that are perfect for kids this weekend.
1. Grundy County State Park
Location: 10010 N. Illinois Route 47, Morris, IL
Why Kids Love It: Let the kids burn off energy while exploring nature! Grundy County State Park features easy hiking trails, open fields for running, and a peaceful riverfront for skipping stones. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the shaded tables, or bring binoculars for birdwatching—kids can spot everything from herons to ducks.
Affordable Perk: Entry is free, making this a wallet-friendly option.
Tip: Stop by the visitor center for kid-friendly activity sheets or scavenger hunts to turn the outing into an educational adventure.
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2. Morris Community Park & Playground
Location: 700 Wauponsee St., Morris, IL
Why Kids Love It: This local favorite has a modern playground with slides, climbing structures, and swings. The park also has wide-open spaces for games like tag or frisbee. If the kids enjoy sports, bring a soccer ball or a kite for added fun.
Affordable Perk: No admission fee, and parking is free.
Weekend Bonus: Check the Morris Park District’s website for last-minute events. Some weekends feature free family-friendly activities like outdoor movie nights or craft workshops.
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3. Gooldy’s Popcorn & Sweet Shop
Location: 113 E. Washington St., Morris, IL
Why Kids Love It: Treat the kids to a small, affordable snack while enjoying a nostalgic vibe. Gooldy’s offers old-fashioned candies, flavored popcorn, and ice cream. Let the kids pick out a few treats to share—they’ll love the colorful displays and friendly service.
Affordable Perk: Most items cost under $5, so you can indulge without guilt.
Tip: Pair this stop with a walk along the nearby Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail for a sweet-and-active combo.
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4. Morris Public Library
Location: 604 Liberty St., Morris, IL
Why Kids Love It: The library isn’t just for quiet reading! Many branches host free weekend programs for kids, such as LEGO-building sessions, puppet shows, or craft hours. Even if there’s no event, the children’s section often has puzzles, interactive toys, and a cozy reading nook.
Affordable Perk: Free to visit, and most activities require no registration.
Weekend Check: Call ahead or check their Facebook page to confirm Saturday hours and any special activities.
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5. Jumping Jupiter Indoor Playground (Channahon, IL)
Location: 24841 S. Frontage Rd., Channahon, IL (15 minutes from Morris)
Why Kids Love It: If the weather isn’t cooperating, this indoor playground is a lifesaver. Kids can bounce on trampolines, navigate obstacle courses, and dive into ball pits. The space is designed for younger children, so it’s safe and easy to supervise.
Affordable Perk: Weekend passes are around $10 per child, and adults enter free.
Time Saver: Arrive right when they open (typically 10 a.m.) to avoid crowds.
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6. Gebhard Woods State Park
Location: 401 Ottawa St., Morris, IL
Why Kids Love It: Smaller and quieter than Grundy County State Park, Gebhard Woods is ideal for a shorter outing. Let the kids explore the wooden footbridges over the creek or hunt for critters like frogs and turtles. The park connects to the I&M Canal Trail, so you can extend the visit with a short bike ride or walk.
Affordable Perk: Free entry and ample parking.
Bring Along: A small net or bucket for “creek exploring”—just remember to release any critters afterward!
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7. Pine Bluff Golf Course Mini Golf
Location: 2500 N. Division St., Morris, IL
Why Kids Love It: Mini golf is a classic kid-pleaser, and Pine Bluff’s course is simple enough for younger players. The 18-hole setup has gentle slopes and fun obstacles. Afterward, let the kids play on the practice putting green or feed the ducks at the nearby pond.
Affordable Perk: Weekend rates are around $6 per person.
Extra Fun: Pack a few glow sticks and return in the evening for glow-in-the-dark mini golf (if available).
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8. Rialto Cinemas (Weekend Matinee)
Location: 120 W. Washington St., Morris, IL
Why Kids Love It: Catch a Saturday or Sunday matinee of a family-friendly movie. The theater’s small-town charm and affordable ticket prices make it a hit with locals. Check their website for current showtimes—animated films are usually a safe bet for 7-year-olds.
Affordable Perk: Matinee tickets are typically $5–$7 per child.
Snack Hack: Bring your own water bottles to save on concessions.
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9. DIY Art Afternoon at Home
Why Kids Love It: If you’d rather stay close to home, create a themed craft afternoon. Pick up supplies from Dollar Tree or Walmart (think paints, stickers, or modeling clay) and let the kids design their own masterpieces. Pair it with a backyard picnic or a DIY “obstacle course” using pillows and hula hoops.
Affordable Perk: Total cost can be under $15 for two kids.
Theme Idea: Try a “space adventure” theme—decorate cardboard boxes as rockets and make galaxy slime!
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Final Tips for a Smooth Weekend Outing:
– Check Weather: Have a backup indoor plan if rain is forecast.
– Pack Snacks: Avoid pricey snack stops by bringing granola bars or fruit.
– Time It Right: Plan around nap times or energy peaks (e.g., mornings for outdoor fun).
With these ideas, you’ll fill a few hours with laughter and discovery—all while staying within budget. Morris and its neighboring towns prove that you don’t need fancy attractions to create lasting memories with kids!
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