If you’re anything like me, you don’t have a lot of time to do anything fun with your little ones. Especially when you don’t have much to $pend.
Now, I’ll admit, some of the packages or fees can be up there for moms who don’t have much to spend. Saving up would be a great idea for some things – even if it doesn’t seem to be too expensive. You just need to remember that even the cheapest of plans cost something.
So, I came up with a few ideas of things to do with your kids – and they will actually find them to be fun! I do have to say though, some things that came up during my search were museums of all kinds. I would have put them on the list but – depending on the subject – real young kids may not enjoy them as much as we would think. Paintings and artifacts seem boring to young kiddos – fossils may be more interesting depending on the child.
These they would definitely find more fun!


Indian Echo Caverns
These caverns hold truly special history! They also have fun rock formations throughout its tunnels.
Kids would have so much fun learning inside these caverns. Mine love rocks – especially the shiny ones! And I just know they’d love to see what these caverns hold inside!
If you’re interested, you can check out the hours and rates on their website here.
Penns Cave
While flooded, Penns Cave is the only cavern in the US featuring a tour guided entirely by boat!
What kid wouldn’t love to explore while gliding along on a boat? I’m even intrigued just by thinking about it!
If you’re as intrigued as I am, you can find the hours and rates at their website here.
Both seem to hold a temp of approximately 50-55 degrees year-round. Great for any season and any weather!


Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
With 77 acres and over 4,000 animals – over 475 species! – this zoo/aquarium has distinct areas that are similar to other parts of the world. Areas like the African Savannah, Asian Forest, and of course there’s the aquarium.
It also offers Kids Kingdom – a dedicated children’s zoo – and the aquarium is the only public aquarium in Pennsylvania.
This zoo also has a summer camp for kids ages 2-13 years old. They provide numerous programs and animal encounters, making this a great place for learning about Wildlife Conservation.
If you’d like to visit their site, follow the link here.
Erie Zoo
With only 15 acres and about 400 animals, this zoo is much smaller. Even with a smaller size, it still offers a diverse range of species and a more intimate setting.
This zoo features a botanical garden, a train ride, and a carousel – very popular with families!
The Erie Zoo emphasizes community engagement and education, offering various programs and events throughout the year.
If you’d like to visit their site, follow their link here.
For much more budget friendly fun times, camping and movies can be a great go-to!


Camping
There are absolutely no shortages of campgrounds in Pennsylvania. You can use any of the beautiful grounds in many of the state parks. Or you can just find a quiet place of your very own.
Just be sure to keep an ear out for some wild animals! It is, after all, their home!
Also, please make sure to leave your site cleaner than you found it!
A few popular campgrounds in PA are:
- Allegheny National Forest
- Bear Run Campground
- Cherry Springs State Park
- Woodland Campground
These are only a few among so many others!
Drive-in Movie Theaters
Everyone loves to go to the movies! But when is the last time y’all have been to a drive-in movie?
I know it’s been years for me!
As I was looking up a few local drive-ins, I couldn’t believe how many are still up and running in Pennsylvania alone! I absolutely love it!
I have always loved going to the drive-in as a kid. It was just so much fun!
If you’re curious, just head over to this link and check out a drive-in theater near you!

