Looking for free and cheap things to do with kids in Kelowna? Whether you are a local family or visiting the area, there are plenty of ways to have fun without spending much. From indoor play spaces and libraries to splash parks, nature walks, and seasonal events, Kelowna offers lots of kid-friendly options that will not break the bank.
Kelowna Parks and Playgrounds
Kelowna is packed with great parks and playgrounds where kids can run, climb, and play for free, making them an easy go-to for everyday outings and sunny afternoons.
- Ballou Park
- Ben Lee Park
- DeHart Community Park
- Kelowna City Park
- Kinsmen Park
- Quilchena Park
- Strathcona Park
Looking for more outdoor play options? Explore our full list of parks and playgrounds in the Okanagan.
Free and Low-Cost Indoor Activities for Kids
These indoor activities are great for rainy days, hot afternoons, or anytime you need to get out of the house.
- KF Centre for Excellence – Minimum donation of $5 per person or $10 per family
- Kelowna Family YMCA – Save on a family drop-in rate
- H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre – Save on a family drop-in rate
- Rutland Arena – Public Skate and Parent & Tot Skate at Rutland Arena
- MNP Place Leisure Rink – Public skate at MNP Place
Need more ideas for rainy days? Check out our list of indoor activities for kids in the Okanagan.
Free and Cheap Drop-In Programs in Kelowna
Drop-in programs around Kelowna offer structured play, storytime, and social opportunities for kids and caregivers, often at little to no cost.
- StrongStart – At select Elementary Schools
- Family Play Time – Kelowna YMCA
- Creative Playtime and Drop-In Playtime – Central Okanagan Family Hub
- Storytime – Downtown Kelowna, Mission and Rutland Libraries
- Family-Tot Play Time – Martin Avenue BGC
- Tiny Blessings – Willow Park Church
- Storytime at the ECCO – Mission Creek Regional Park
- MCA Kids Play & Connect – Mission Creek alliance Church Gym
- Family Story Time – Parkinson Recreation Centre
- Family Sundays – Kelowna Art Gallery (Pre-registration required)
Want even more options? View our complete and regularly updated Kelowna drop-in programs page.
Free and Affordable Libraries, Museums & Art Galleries in Kelowna
Libraries and small museums are some of the best free activities for families, especially with storytimes, kids’ areas, and rotating exhibits.
- Kelowna Art Gallery – Free admission every Thursday. Donations greatefully accepted
- Kelowna Regional Libraries – Rutland, Mission, and Downtown Kelowna locations
- Okanagan Heritage Museum – Every second Sunday of the month, pay what you wish
- Okanagan Military Museum – Family admission available
- Okanagan Wine & Orchard Museum – Admission is by donation
View the list of Okanagan Museums & Art Galleries.
Splash Parks, Beaches & Water Parks in Kelowna
During the warmer months, splash parks and beaches are some of the best free ways to cool off and spend a full day outside with kids.
- Ben Lee Water Park
- City Park Water Park
- Quilchena Splash Park
- Boyce-Gyro Beach Park
- Hot Sands Beach
- Rotary Beach Park
- Sarsons Beach Park
- Strathcona Beach Park
- Tugboat Bay
Ready to cool off? Check out our complete list of Okanagan Water Parks, Spray Parks, and Splash Parks.
Free Outdoor Activities for Kids in Kelowna
From easy walking paths to bike parks and skating rinks, Kelowna offers plenty of outdoor spaces where families can stay active without spending a dime.
- Ben Lee Skatepark
- City Park Skate & Bike Park
- DeHart Bike Park
- Kasugai Gardens
- Mission Creek Greenway
- Knox Mountain Park
- Stuart Park Outdoor Skating Rink
Looking for even more free and low-cost activities for kids in Kelowna? Keep scrolling for seasonal events, workshops, and family-friendly happenings around the city.
Free Seasonal Events & Festivals for Kids and Families
- Family Day (February)
- Canada Day Celebrations (July)
- Parks Alive! – 8-week concert series in Kelowna’s parks and public spaces (July & August)
- Kelowna Made – celebration that offers inclusive, affordable fun (August)
- New York New Year’s Eve – free, family-friendly event (December)
Don’t miss what’s coming up next. Visit our Okanagan Family Events Calendar for current and upcoming events.
Free or Low-Cost Kids Workshops & Store Events
Many local businesses offer free or low-cost workshops where kids can build, create, and learn hands-on skills, often with materials included.
- Home Depot Kids Workshops – Pre-register for Kids Workshops, 2nd Saturday of each month
- Staples Kids Workshops – Reserve a spot for the Staples Kids workshops
- Rona Workshops – A program desigers for little DIYers!
- Michaels Workshops – Join them for Kids Club on select days
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there really free things to do with kids in Kelowna?
Yes. Kelowna offers free parks, beaches, libraries, seasonal events, drop-in programs, and workshops that families can enjoy year-round.
What are the best free activities in Kelowna for young kids?
Playgrounds, library storytimes, StrongStart programs, splash parks [weather permitting], and free community events are all popular options.
