Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer—without a long drive or a big price tag? You’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the best free and affordable things to do with your family, all within 20 minutes of McKinney. From splash pads and playgrounds to community events and indoor escapes, here’s your local guide to summer fun in 2025.
Top Free Outdoor Activities
1. Parks & Playgrounds
- Towne Lake Park (McKinney): Shaded playgrounds, walking trails, and a scenic lake—perfect for picnics and paddle boating.
- Frisco Commons Park (Frisco): Huge play structures, splash pad, fishing pond, and nature trails, all-abilities playground, and plenty of open space for family games.
- Erwin Park (McKinney): Nature lovers will enjoy biking, hiking, and shaded picnic spots.
- Fairview Town Center Splash Pad: A fun, free option for little ones, with shops and dining nearby.
- Little Elm Beach Park: On the shores of Lake Lewisville this park offers swimming, sand volleyball, picnic areas, playgrounds, and plenty of space to relax or build sandcastles. With seasonal events, food trucks, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and a family-friendly vibe
 Little Elm Park Playground |
Can’t-Miss Local Events (Summer 2025)
1. McKinney Farmers Market at Chestnut Square
Every Saturday morning. Free entry! Shop local produce, enjoy live music, and let the kids play on the green.
2. Chess Meetups at John & Judy Gay Library
Weekly family chess events—great for all ages and skill levels.
4. Native Butterfly Garden Activities at Heard Museum
Explore the butterfly garden and join free nature programs (some events may require museum admission, but outdoor gardens are often free).
5. B&B Theatres Family Movie Series (Wylie & McKinney)
Affordable family movie mornings—tickets often under $5!
6. Frisco Rail District Summer Nights
Live music, food trucks, games, and kid-friendly entertainment on select Friday evenings.
7. Sprinkle Sundays at The Stix Ice House
Cool off and chill out by having some old fashioned fun by running through the sprinklers and enjoying ice cream + sprinkles for dessert!
8. SaturYAY at Kalidescope Park
Enjoy a free, family-friendly afternoon filled with activities that may include storytime, arts and crafts, petting zoos, airbrush art, lawn games, outdoor education shows, and more!
For more, check our full McKinney events calendar and Frisco events calendar—updated weekly!
 Bonnie Wenk Park |
Affordable Indoor Play & Learning
- Play Street Museum (McKinney & Frisco): Hands-on fun for young kids; entry under $15.
- Sci-Tech Discovery Center (Frisco): Interactive STEM exhibits; look for free community days.
- Frisco Public Library: Free storytimes, crafts, and special summer reading activities. Free indoor play area.
- Cheerland (McKinney & Melissa) : Tons of fun for even the littlest members of the family.
- Chuck E Cheese (Plano & Allen) With play passes starting at just $7.99 for the whole family and birthday parties for $99 there is so much fun to be had for kids of all ages and parents too!
 Cheerland |
Hidden Gems & Reader Favorites
- Bonnie Wenk Park (McKinney): Splash pad, dog park, and fishing pond.
- The Cove at The Lakefront (Little Elm): Indoor waterpark—watch for discount days.
- Texas Sculpture Garden: largest private collection of contemporary sculpture ever assembled.
Have a favorite spot? Share it in the comments or tag us on Facebook or Instagram!
Exclusive Local Deals
Save on summer fun with our latest family deals—including discounts on LEGOLAND, Peppa Pig World of Play, and more!
Stay in the Know
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Have questions or want to see your event featured?
Email Laura at lauralui@macaronikid.com
