Looking for the best cheap and free things to do in Burlington NC with kids? Whether you’re planning a weekend outing, a last-minute adventure, or trying to keep things budget-friendly, Burlington has plenty of family-friendly options.

From parks and playgrounds to interactive art experiences and local hidden gems, this guide covers the top free things to do in Burlington NC that kids will actually love.

Best Free Things to Do in Burlington NC with Kids

Burlington City Park

This local favorite is the crown jewel of Burlington’s family-friendly offerings! City Park, with its 75 acres of green spaces, offers endless opportunities for kids to run, climb, and play to their heart’s content. The playground caters to all ages with climbing structures, swings, and slides – My 5-year-old goes crazy for the zipline! There’s a massive splash pad that operates during the warmer month along with 9 gazebos/picnic shelters for lunch breaks, and they’ve just opened an enormous pickleball complex consisting of 17 courts! For $1/ride hop on one of the 5 seasonal amusement park rides. Heads up: The plane, car, and boat rides are geared more toward younger kids, but any and every member of the family can ride the carousel and the miniature train!

Burlington Arboretum at Willowbrook Park

The Arboretum at Willowbrook Park is a great spot for nature-loving families. It has a paved walking path that takes a meandering route through the entire, 17-acre park. The Arboretum features a pollinator garden full of butterflies in summer, and a stream where kids can look for tadpoles and other critters. There’s an accessible treehouse suspended from a large tree within the park, and guided tours are offered seasonally!

Haw River Trail

A nature walk is always a terrific option for budget-minded families, but the Haw River Trail takes that one step further. Located in Haw River State Park, this trail is still in progress, but around 20 miles of the planned 80-mile route is currently open at several access points. The Haw River Trail is part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail spanning North Carolina, so this offers a chance to experience a small piece of the famed larger route. Remember to bring water and sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes! Be sure to check out our Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Ideas with Free Printables for Kids to make your hike a little more fun!

Alamance County Public Libraries

I recently took my daughter to the May Memorial Library (my first time visiting that library since having children). I was so surprised by how kid-friendly it is! There’s a separate children’s section, sure, but just off of that there is another room, filled with toys! The glass walls are great for people-watching, and there are adorable little cushions where kids can plop down and read through the treasures they found on the bookshelves. When we visited, they were hosting a scavenger hunt through the children’s section, with prizes at the end! They host so many activities that I won’t try to list them, but will link them here.

Elon University Campus Walks

Just minutes from downtown Burlington, Elon University has a beautiful, walkable campus with fountains, art sculptures, and shaded paths. It’s a peaceful spot for stroller walks or letting kids run between errands. The beautiful grounds often have open spaces and interesting architecture that can be fun for exploration. You can find a campus map here. During the school year, families can sometimes catch free concerts or student performances open to the public. Just be sure to be respectful of the students and the academic environment.

Explore Downtown Burlington

Downtown Burlington is walkable, charming, and full of hidden gems.

Things to do:

Window shop local stores
Grab a treat from a local bakery or coffee shop
Pair your visit with the Artsy scavenger hunt

Burlington Greenway Trails

Looking for a free way to stay active? The Burlington Greenway offers:

Walking and biking paths
Scenic nature views
Space for strollers and scooters

Perfect for a low-cost family outing.

Splash Pads and Water Fun in Burlington

Looking for free things to do in Burlington with kids this summer? Splash pads are a perfect way to beat the heat without breaking the bank. The splash pad at Mayco Bigelow Community Center, located in North Park, is a local favorite. It’s completely free and open to the public, making it one of the best cheap things to do in Burlington for families. The site also features a public pool and shaded seating areas—perfect for parents who need a break while the kids play. Pro tip: bring towels, sunscreen, and snacks to make the most of your visit. For even more water fun, check out our complete guide to splash pads in the area.

Lake Mackintosh Park & Marina

If you’re searching for cheap things to do in Burlington that combine outdoor fun and scenic views, head to Lake Mackintosh Park & Marina. This hidden gem offers paddle boat rentals, fishing areas, nature trails, and an impressive playground—great for a full day of family-friendly activities. With picnic shelters and peaceful surroundings, it’s ideal for relaxing while the kids explore. This park is one of the best free things to do in Burlington for outdoor lovers. If you want to go fishing you can fish off the shore for only $3.

Best Free Activities Near Burlington

Artsy the Mouse Scavenger Hunt (Downtown Graham)

One of the most unique (and completely free!) activities is the Artsy the Mouse Scavenger Hunt by Alamance Arts.

This interactive downtown experience turns a simple walk into a fun, kid-friendly adventure.

How It Works

Download the scavenger hunt brochure
Explore downtown Burlington
Find hidden Artsy mouse sculptures
Check them off as you go

Why Families Love It

Feels like a real-life treasure hunt
Gets kids moving and exploring
Completely free
Great for all ages

Cedarock Park

To say that this park is huge would be an understatement. Located on 500 acres of land in southern Alamance County, Cedarock Park is a must-visit for families. There are options for hiking, camping, fishing, and disc golfing. There’s even a historic farm on the property, complete with farm animals to visit! Your family can take a self-guided tour, or opt for a guided tour for a group fee.

Saxapahaw Saturdays

Say it with me: SACKS-uh-pa-hah. Even though we lived there for some time, and my husband still works in the area, I’m embarrassed to tell you I just recently learned the proper pronunciation. However you say it, Saxapahaw is an absolutely gorgeous riverside town about 15 minutes away from Burlington proper, and on summer Saturdays it transforms with a free outdoor concert series, farmer’s market, and food trucks. There’s room to spread out, live music to dance to, and lots of kid-friendly vendors. It’s a great way to spend a warm evening and explore a nearby community vibe.

Alamance Battleground

History can be exciting for kids when it’s up close and hands-on. At the Alamance Battleground State Historic Site, families can walk the battlefield trails, learn about colonial history, and enjoy seasonal living history events. Admission is free, and guided tours are sometimes offered at low or no cost.

Budget-Friendly Fun in Burlington

Children’s Museum of Alamance County

Admission to this vibrant, interactive museum is worth every penny of its low admission fee ($6/person for all-day admission). Designed primarily for younger children, the Children’s Museum features imaginative play areas including a pretend grocery store, art studio, building zone, and even a real ambulance to explore. It’s a perfect rainy-day option with plenty to keep kids engaged.

Burlington Sock Puppets Baseball

Formerly known as the Burlington Royals, the Sock Puppets play in a family-friendly stadium with plenty of room for wiggly kids. If you’re looking for cheap family night fun, tickets are relatively inexpensive – $9 each, with a processing fee if you order online. They routinely host themed nights that add to the excitement, and fireworks are a regular occurrence!

How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Day in Burlington

Here’s an easy plan:

Morning:

Artsy the Mouse scavenger hunt
Walk downtown

Lunch:

Grab something casual nearby

Afternoon:

Head to Burlington City Park
Or visit the Children’s Museum

Total cost: Free or under $20

Tips for Visiting Burlington with Kids

Plan Around the Weather

Many activities are outdoors, so check the forecast.

Bring Snacks

Especially for park or walking days.

Combine Activities

Downtown + park = full day of fun.

Go Early or Late in Summer

Avoid peak heat hours.

Things to Do in Burlington NC with Kids – FAQ

What are free things to do in Burlington NC?

Parks, greenways, downtown exploring, and the Artsy the Mouse scavenger hunt are all great free options.

What are cheap things to do in Burlington NC with kids?

The Children’s Museum and Alamance Arts offer affordable, family-friendly experiences.

Is Burlington NC good for families?

Yes — it offers a mix of outdoor spaces, small attractions, and budget-friendly activities.

You don’t need to spend a lot to have a great day with your kids in Burlington. From creative scavenger hunts to parks and local attractions, there are plenty of cheap and free things to do in Burlington NC with kids that make it easy to plan a fun, low-cost outing. Don’t forget to keep an eye on our event calendar for free community events like festivals, outdoor concerts, and holiday celebrations, which often feature kid-friendly activities and entertainment without any admission cost. Consider signing up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

For more check out Fun Things to Do in Burlington, NC with Kids