Activities for Kids

Top 10 Free (or Cheap) Things to do in the Bay Area with Kids Under 5

From kiddie concerts to petting zoos to bowling, we set out to prove the old axiom that the best things in life are FREE—especially if you are a little kid!

By Kate Loweth June 18, 2015

Want to plan a summer of fun for the little people in your life? Good news! An over-the-top summer doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg or take tons of prep work. With this list of our ten favorite things to do with kids under 5, we prove the old axiom that the best things in life FREE (or at least very cheap).

6. Get Your Bowling Shoes On

If you haven’t gone bowling with a toddler then you are in for a big treat! When summer comes around, many local bowling alleys participate in the Kids Bowl Free program (great for those 100+ degree days). Sign up your little ones for a summer of free bowling (shoe rental not included) which includes up to two free games per day. Check to see if your alley offers a ball ramp which can help the short ones gain a little momentum and avoid balls that don’t quite make it to the pins.

Online: kidsbowlfree.com

Photo: Kate Loweth