Fun & Budget-Friendly 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 hidden gems perfect for families. Whether your kids love outdoor adventures, hands-on activities, or creative play, here’s a roundup of affordable spots to explore this weekend.
1. Grundy County Lake Park
Why it’s great for kids:
This local park is a go-to for families thanks to its wide-open spaces, playgrounds, and scenic walking trails. The playground features slides, climbing structures, and swings tailored to younger children, while the lakefront provides opportunities for short nature walks. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the shaded tables, or let the kids burn off energy playing tag on the grassy fields.
Details:
– Location: 4870 Illinois Route 47, Morris, IL
– Cost: Free (parking is also free).
– Weekend hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
2. Gooseberry Park Playground
Why it’s great for kids:
Tucked into the heart of Morris, Gooseberry Park is a community favorite. The playground here is modern and well-maintained, with equipment designed for kids aged 5–12. Think monkey bars, twisty slides, and a sandpit for digging. The park also has a splash pad, which might be operational this weekend if the weather’s warm—perfect for cooling off!
Details:
– Location: 501 W. Wauponsee St., Morris, IL
– Cost: Free.
– Weekend hours: Open all day.
3. Grundy County Library
Why it’s great for kids:
Libraries aren’t just for quiet reading! The Grundy County Library often hosts free weekend activities, including craft sessions, story hours, or LEGO-building workshops. Check their calendar for this weekend—they might have a themed event or a movie screening for kids. Even if there’s no scheduled program, the children’s section has puzzles, games, and books to keep little ones engaged.
Details:
– Location: 1300 W. Union St., Morris, IL
– Cost: Free (some activities may require registration).
– Weekend hours: Saturday 9 AM–5 PM; Sunday closed.
4. Sandy Bluff Recreation Area
Why it’s great for kids:
Just a short drive from Morris, Sandy Bluff offers mini-golf, batting cages, and a small arcade. Mini-golf is a hit with younger kids because it’s easy to learn and encourages friendly competition. The course is compact, so it won’t take all day, and the arcade has ticket-redeemable games for small prizes.
Details:
– Location: 1750 N. Division St., Coal City, IL (10 minutes from Morris)
– Cost: ~$6–$8 per child for mini-golf; arcade games start at $1.
– Weekend hours: Saturday 11 AM–9 PM; Sunday 12–8 PM.
5. Morris Community Farmers Market
Why it’s great for kids:
If you’re visiting on Saturday morning, the Morris Farmers Market is a lively spot to explore. Let the kids sample fresh fruit, watch live music, or participate in kid-friendly activities like face painting or cookie decorating (often free or low-cost). It’s a fun way to teach them about local food while enjoying the outdoors.
Details:
– Location: Downtown Morris (Liberty Street)
– Cost: Free entry; activities vary.
– Weekend hours: Saturday 8 AM–12 PM.
6. Illinois Railway Museum (Seasonal)
Why it’s great for kids:
Though slightly farther (30–40 minutes from Morris), this museum in Union is worth the drive for train enthusiasts. Kids can ride vintage trolleys or diesel-powered trains—many of which are operational on weekends. The interactive exhibits and open-air displays make it educational and exciting.
Details:
– Location: 7000 Olson Rd., Union, IL
– Cost: $10–$15 per person; kids under 3 free.
– Weekend hours: Saturday & Sunday 10 AM–5 PM.
7. Streator Avenue Soft Serve & Park
Why it’s great for kids:
Combine a treat with playtime! Grab affordable ice cream cones at this local shop, then head to the nearby park (within walking distance) with picnic tables and open space. It’s a simple but effective way to fill a couple of hours with joy.
Details:
– Location: 1300 E. Main St., Morris, IL
– Cost: Ice cream starts at $3; park access is free.
– Weekend hours: Check store hours for Saturday/Sunday.
Final Tips for a Smooth Day:
– Weather check: If rain is forecast, prioritize indoor spots like the library or Sandy Bluff’s arcade.
– Snacks: Pack water and light snacks to avoid mid-outing hunger meltdowns.
– Timing: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially at parks and the splash pad.
From outdoor adventures to creative play, Morris has plenty of wallet-friendly options to make this weekend memorable for your 7-year-olds. The key is to keep it simple, stay flexible, and let their curiosity lead the way!
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