What Things To Do With Kids This Weekend

Last weekend, my family and I found ourselves in a tight spot — the kids were restless, the weather was unpredictable, and we had less than 24 hours to figure out something fun. We ended up booking a last-minute stay at a local bed-and-breakfast that had a mini-trampoline and a game room. It turned out to be one of the most memorable weekends we've had. It was a reminder that even with kids, a weekend trip can be both easy and unforgettable. If you're wondering 'what things to do with kids this weekend,' you're not alone — and the good news is, there are countless options that actually work.^[1]

When I think about weekends with kids, I don’t see chaos or frustration — I see potential. You just need the right approach. A weekend doesn’t have to be a full-blown vacation, but it can still be an adventure. Whether it's a short road trip, a visit to a nearby museum, or a day at the beach, the key is to plan with intention and flexibility. I've learned that the best weekends for kids are the ones where they feel involved, excited, and not overwhelmed by a schedule that’s too rigid or too packed.

So, what things to do with kids this weekend? You might be surprised by how much fun you can have without breaking the bank or sacrificing your sanity. My favorite trips start with a simple premise: find something that interests the kids, mix in a few activities that spark their curiosity, and let them take the lead. I’ve found that a weekend that includes a mix of exploration, play, and some downtime is often the most successful. It’s all about balance — and that’s exactly what I’ll walk you through in this guide.

Plan a Mini Road Trip to a Nearby Town

As of September 2026, I recently took my family to a nearby town that had a small zoo and a farmers market. We spent the morning at the zoo, where the kids were thrilled to see the animals up close. In the afternoon, we browsed the farmers market and picked up fresh produce and handmade crafts. The best part? We stayed in a cozy Airbnb that had a backyard where we could play badminton and roast marshmallows. The kids were excited about every part of the trip — and I was grateful for the easy setup.

A mini road trip gives you the freedom to explore without the stress of long travel times or complicated itineraries. You can pack light, keep the pace relaxed, and choose activities that match your kids’ interests. I recommend picking a town within two hours of home — that way, you can enjoy the adventure without worrying about the logistics.^[2]

One of the best things about a mini road trip is the way it sparks curiosity in kids. They love seeing new places, trying new foods, and learning about different cultures. I’ve found that even a short trip can leave a lasting impression on them — and on me as a parent.

Part of our Kid friendly for weekend getaways guide.

Visit a Local Museum or Science Center

We recently took the kids to a local science museum that had a planetarium and a hands-on exhibit where they could build simple machines. The kids were completely absorbed in the exhibits for hours — and I had time to grab a coffee and read a book. The museum also had a café where we could grab a quick bite, and the staff was very friendly and helpful.

Museums are a great way to spend time with kids without needing to be constantly entertained. They offer a mix of learning and fun, and they’re often designed with kids in mind. I’ve found that the best museums have interactive exhibits and activities that keep kids engaged and excited.

One of the best parts of visiting a museum is that it can be a family activity that everyone enjoys. The kids get to explore and learn, and the parents can relax and enjoy the experience as well. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Museums are the perfect mix of learning and fun — and they’re often more engaging than you might expect.

Related: Kid friendly soup for small spaces

Related: Natural kid friendly snack recipes

Have a Staycation at Home with a Twist

We turned our home into a mini adventure last weekend by setting up a treasure hunt, creating a makeshift camping area in the backyard, and having a movie night with themed popcorn and snacks. The kids were thrilled, and we ended up having one of the best weekends in a while. It was low-cost, low-stress, and still full of fun.

A staycation is a great option if you’re looking for something that’s easy to organize and doesn’t require a lot of planning. You can customize it to fit your kids’ interests and energy levels. I’ve found that a staycation can be just as memorable as a trip — if you put some thought into it.

One of the best things about a staycation is that it gives you the chance to spend quality time with your kids without the pressure of being on the go. It’s also a great way to introduce new activities and games that you can enjoy together as a family.

“Last weekend, my family and I found ourselves in a tight spot — the kids were restless, the weather was unpredictable, and we had less…”— Weekendgone editors

Related: Kid friendly snacks checklist

Related: Kid friendly side dishes ideas

Enjoy a Day at the Local Park or Nature Reserve

Last weekend, we took the kids to a nearby nature reserve that had hiking trails, a pond, and a picnic area. The kids loved exploring the trails and looking for birds and butterflies. We packed a picnic lunch, and we spent the whole day outdoors. It was a perfect way to disconnect from the usual routine and reconnect with each other.

Parks and nature reserves offer a great mix of physical activity and relaxation. They’re also a great place to introduce your kids to the outdoors and teach them about nature. I’ve found that kids love being in nature — they’re more active, more curious, and more engaged when they’re outside.

One of the best parts of a day at the park is that it can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. You can bring a small picnic and spend the day reading, or you can hike and explore as much as you want. It’s a flexible option that works for any family.

Related: Best kid friendly stops

Attend a Family-Friendly Event or Festival

We recently attended a local summer festival that had games, food trucks, and live music. The kids had a great time playing games and trying new foods, and I enjoyed the atmosphere and the friendly vibes. It was a fun and relaxed way to spend the weekend.

Festivals and events are a great way to introduce your kids to new experiences and to enjoy some time with other families. They often have a wide range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. I’ve found that the best festivals are the ones that have a mix of food, entertainment, and hands-on activities.

One of the best things about attending a family-friendly event is that it gives you a chance to socialize and meet other parents — and it can be a great way to get some tips and recommendations for future weekend adventures.

Related: Quick kid friendly snacks to make

Take a Creative Class or Workshop Together

Last weekend, we took the kids to a pottery class where they could make their own mugs and bowls. It was a great way to spend the day, and the kids were thrilled with their creations. The class was led by a friendly instructor, and it was a fun way to learn something new together.

Creative classes and workshops are a great way to spend time with your kids and to learn something new. They often have a mix of hands-on activities and instruction, which makes them a great option for families. I’ve found that the best classes are the ones that are interactive and allow kids to explore their creativity.

One of the best parts of taking a creative class is that it gives you a chance to bond with your kids and to create something together. It’s also a great way to introduce your kids to new skills and interests.

A creative class is more than just a fun activity — it's a chance to bond and learn something new together.

Related: Kid friendly slime recipe guide

Have a Themed Weekend with a Focus on Learning

We recently had a themed weekend centered around history — we visited a local historical site, watched a documentary about the Civil War, and even dressed up in period costumes for a picnic. The kids loved the theme, and we had a great time learning and exploring together.

A themed weekend is a great way to introduce your kids to new topics and to make learning fun. It’s also a great way to spend time with your kids and to create lasting memories. I’ve found that the best themed weekends are the ones that are centered around something that interests both the kids and the parents.

One of the best things about a themed weekend is that it gives you a chance to explore new topics and to learn something new together. It’s also a great way to introduce your kids to new interests and to create a sense of excitement and curiosity.

What Things To Do With Kids This Weekend