Fun & Affordable Ways to Entertain Kids Near Morris, IL This Weekend
Looking for a spot to keep two energetic 7-year-olds busy for a few hours without breaking the bank? Morris, Illinois, and its surrounding areas offer plenty of family-friendly options that are easy on the wallet and big on fun. Whether your kids love outdoor adventures, hands-on activities, or creative play, here are five local gems to consider for a memorable weekend outing.
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1. Grundy County State Park: Nature’s Playground
Address: 10010 N. Jugtown Rd., Morris, IL
Start your weekend with fresh air and wide-open spaces at Grundy County State Park, just a short drive from downtown Morris. This park is perfect for kids who enjoy exploring trails, spotting wildlife, or simply running around. The park’s easy walking paths, like the 1.5-mile River Trail, are manageable for young hikers and offer scenic views of the Illinois River.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the shaded tables, or let the kids play at the park’s simple but engaging playground. Fishing is also an option here—bring a rod (or borrow one from the park’s loaner program) to try catching bluegill or catfish in the river. Best of all, admission is free, making it an ideal low-cost option for families.
Pro Tip: Stop by the visitor center to grab a Junior Ranger activity booklet. Completing the activities earns kids a badge—a fun souvenir of their adventure!
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2. Gooldrick’s Family Farm: Petting Zoo & Playtime
Address: 20958 W. Gooldrick Rd., Morris, IL
For a mix of education and entertainment, head to Gooldrick’s Family Farm, a working farm that welcomes visitors year-round. Kids can interact with friendly goats, chickens, and calves in the petting zoo, or take a guided tractor ride to learn about crops and farm life. The farm’s playground features a sandpit, slides, and climbing structures, perfect for burning off energy.
While some seasonal activities (like pumpkin picking) aren’t available yet, the farm’s basic admission is $5 per child (adults free), making it a budget-friendly choice. Check their Facebook page for weekend hours and any special events, like craft workshops or storytime sessions.
Pro Tip: Bring quarters to buy feed for the animals—it’s a hit with kids and supports the farm!
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3. Morris Area Public Library: Creative Free Fun
Address: 604 Liberty St., Morris, IL
If the weather isn’t cooperating, the Morris Area Public Library offers a cozy, free indoor escape. The children’s section is stocked with books, puzzles, and educational toys tailored to early readers. Check their calendar for weekend events: Many libraries host Saturday morning craft sessions, LEGO clubs, or interactive story hours.
Even if there’s no formal event, the library’s makerspace area often has supplies for DIY projects, like coloring sheets or building challenges. Let the kids unleash their creativity while you relax with a coffee from the library café.
Pro Tip: Sign up for a library card during your visit—it’s free and unlocks access to thousands of children’s eBooks and movies.
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4. Morris Community Pool: Splash Without the Crowds
Address: 3000 Chapin St., Morris, IL
Though summer is winding down, the Morris Community Pool often stays open through early September, weather permitting. For a small admission fee ($3–$5 per person), kids can enjoy the pool’s splash pad, water slides, and shallow play areas. Weekends tend to be quieter than weekdays, so it’s a great time to visit without big crowds.
Call ahead to confirm hours, and don’t forget towels and sunscreen! If the pool is closed, check out Saratoga School Park next door, which has a playground and open fields for games.
Pro Tip: Pack a few pool toys or inflatables to add extra excitement.
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5. “Create & Play” at Home: DIY Backyard Adventure
If you’d rather stay close to home, create your own mini-adventure! Set up a backyard scavenger hunt (e.g., “find a red leaf” or “spot a squirrel”), or host a themed craft day using supplies from the dollar store. Ideas include:
– DIY obstacle course with hula hoops, cones, and jump ropes
– Science experiments like baking soda volcanoes or slime-making
– Outdoor movie marathon with a projector and blankets
Pair these activities with affordable snacks (think homemade popcorn or fruit skewers) for a personalized, low-cost experience.
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Final Tips for a Smooth Weekend Outing
– Timing: Split your day into 2–3 shorter activities to keep kids engaged without overexertion.
– Snacks: Pack reusable water bottles and easy eats (granola bars, cut-up fruit) to avoid pricey convenience-store stops.
– Local Resources: Follow Morris community Facebook groups or the city’s tourism page for last-minute updates on free events or discounts.
With these ideas, you’re all set for a fun, affordable weekend with your 7-year-olds in Morris. From farm animals to library crafts, the hardest part will be deciding which adventure to try first!
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