Fun & Affordable Weekend Spots for 7-Year-Olds Near Morris, IL
Looking for a way to keep two energetic 7-year-olds entertained for a few hours this weekend without breaking the bank? Morris, Illinois, and its surrounding areas offer plenty of budget-friendly options that are perfect for young kids. Whether they love outdoor adventures, hands-on activities, or imaginative play, here are some local spots that’ll make for a memorable (and affordable) afternoon.
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1. Gebhard Woods State Park
201 E. Washington St., Morris, IL
Start your weekend adventure with a dose of nature at Gebhard Woods State Park. This peaceful park features walking trails, a scenic canal, and open spaces perfect for running around. Let the kids explore the park’s “Storybook Trail,” where pages of a children’s book are posted along a short path—ideal for combining literacy and outdoor fun. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the shaded tables, or bring bread to feed the ducks near the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Best of all, admission is free, making it a wallet-friendly choice.
Pro Tip: Check the park’s event calendar—they occasionally host free family-friendly activities like guided nature walks or craft sessions.
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2. Morris Community Public Library
604 Liberty St., Morris, IL
Rain or shine, the Morris Community Public Library is a gem for families. The children’s section is stocked with books, puzzles, and educational toys. Many weekends include free activities like LEGO-building sessions, storytime, or themed craft projects. Call ahead to see if they’re hosting a special event this Saturday or Sunday. Even if there’s no scheduled program, the cozy reading nooks and interactive play areas will keep kids engaged. Bonus: Library visits are always free!
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3. Splash Station Aquatic Park
3001 Game Farm Road, Morris, IL
If the weather’s warm, head to Splash Station Aquatic Park. This seasonal water park has a zero-depth entry pool, water slides designed for younger kids, and a splash pad with fountains. While admission isn’t free, it’s reasonably priced (around $8 per child for a day pass), and the park often offers discounts for Morris residents. Check their website for open hours this weekend—they typically open by late May.
Budget Hack: Arrive early to maximize your time, and pack snacks to avoid concession costs.
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4. Goold Park Playground
200 E. Chapin St., Morris, IL
For classic playground fun, visit Goold Park. The updated play structures are perfect for 7-year-olds, with climbing walls, slides, and swings. The park also has a small basketball court and plenty of open space for games like tag or frisbee. Bring sidewalk chalk or bubbles for extra entertainment. Since there’s no entry fee, you can stay as long as the kids are having fun.
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5. Rialto Cinemas (Matinee Movie)
119 E. Washington St., Morris, IL
Need a break from the heat or an activity for a rainy afternoon? Catch a matinee at Rialto Cinemas. Weekend matinees are cheaper than evening shows, and the theater often screens family-friendly films. Check their schedule to see if a kids’ movie is playing—pair it with a small popcorn to make it feel like a special treat.
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6. White Oak Library District – Morris Branch
604 Liberty St., Morris, IL
Wait—isn’t this the same as the community library? Not quite! While the Morris branch shares space with the public library, the White Oak District often hosts separate events. This weekend, check if they’re running a STEM workshop, board game day, or puppet show. Many programs are free or cost just a few dollars per child.
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7. Morris Downtown “Adventure Walk”
Turn downtown Morris into a scavenger hunt! Create a list of items for the kids to spot: a historic building, a colorful storefront, a flower planter, or a unique statue. Start at the Grundy County Courthouse (100 E. Washington St.), then stroll toward Liberty Street’s shops. Peek into kid-friendly stores like The Hive (109 E. Washington St.) for a small, affordable treat like locally made honey sticks.
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8. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie (Short Drive)
30239 S. State Route 53, Wilmington, IL (~25 minutes from Morris)
For a change of scenery, drive to Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. This expansive preserve has easy hiking trails, wildflowers, and a herd of grazing bison (visible from a safe distance). Stop by the Welcome Center for free junior ranger activity booklets. The “Twin Oaks Trail” is a short, flat loop perfect for little legs. Admission is free, though donations are welcome.
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Final Tips for a Smooth Day
– Snack Smart: Pack reusable water bottles and snacks to avoid extra costs.
– Check Hours: Verify weekend hours for each spot online before heading out.
– Mix Activities: Pair an active outing (like the park) with a quieter one (like the library) to balance energy levels.
With these ideas, you’re all set for a fun, affordable weekend with your 7-year-olds. Morris might be a small town, but it’s full of opportunities for big adventures!
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