Being a parent on the Space Coast means living in paradise, but we all know that “paradise” can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re looking to kill a Saturday afternoon without breaking the bank or trying to entertain the kids during school breaks, Brevard County is packed with hidden gems that are either free or very affordable.
From Titusville down to Palm Bay, here are the best budget-friendly and cheap things to do with kids in Brevard County.
1. Splash Pads & Community Parks (Free!)
When the Florida humidity hits, nothing beats a splash pad. Luckily, Brevard has several high-quality, free water play areas:
West Melbourne Community Park: Located on Minton Road, this park features a fantastic splash pad, massive playground, and even a skate park for the older kids.
Cocoa Riverfront Park: Right in the heart of Historic Cocoa Village, this splash pad offers beautiful views of the Indian River. It’s the perfect spot to let the kids cool off after a morning of window shopping.
The Avenue Viera: Located right in front of the AMC theater, this is a great “quick stop” splash pad to reward the kids after running errands.
Sand Point Park (Titusville): A local favorite in North Brevard with plenty of space to run and a refreshing splash zone.
2. Nature Centers & Sanctuaries
Brevard’s natural beauty is one of our greatest (and cheapest) resources.
Turkey Creek Sanctuary (Palm Bay): This 130-acre sanctuary features a gorgeous boardwalk trail that is stroller-friendly. It’s completely free and offers a high chance of spotting turtles and manatees in the creek.
Enchanted Forest Sanctuary (Titusville): Perfect for little explorers, this sanctuary has several short hiking trails and an indoor educational center with interactive exhibits.
Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands (Viera): Also known as the Viera Wetlands, you can drive your car through this area to see incredible wildlife, including alligators and rare birds—all for free.
3. “Low-Cost” Indoor Museums
On those rainy Florida afternoons, indoor activities are a must. While the big-name attractions can be pricey, these local museums offer great value:
Liberty Bell Memorial Museum (Melbourne): A hidden gem that is free to the public. It features historical exhibits and a full-size replica of the Liberty Bell.
The American Space Museum & Walk of Fame (Titusville): For the little astronaut in your life, this museum offers a more affordable alternative to the Space Center, featuring authentic artifacts donated by NASA workers.
Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science (Cocoa): Explore the prehistoric history of Florida and see the “Windover Lady” in a kid-friendly environment.
4. Beach Days at the Local Gems
A beach day is always fun for the whole family, and it’s free!
Lori Wilson Park (Cocoa Beach): This beautiful beach has full facilities (restrooms, showers, and a playground).
Paradise Beach (Melbourne): Another great option with a playground, and plenty of space for a family picnic.
Sebastian Inlet State Park: While there is a small fee per vehicle (usually $8), it’s a bargain for a full day of swimming in the “tide pool” area, which is perfect for toddlers because the water is shallow and calm.
5. Animal Encounters on a Budget
You don’t always have to pay full admission to get up close with animals.
Manatee Sanctuary Park (Cape Canaveral): A beautiful 10-acre park on the Banana River. While manatee sightings aren’t guaranteed every day, it’s a peaceful spot with a great playground and fitness trail.
The Zoo’s “Linear Park”: Did you know you can walk the boardwalk outside the Brevard Zoo for free? The Linear Park is a crushed-shell trail that runs alongside the zoo fence, where you can often spot animals like rhinos or birds without paying for a ticket.
Mom-Pro Tip: Check the Library!
Don’t forget the Brevard County Public Libraries. Beyond free books and movies, they host weekly storytimes, LEGO clubs, and craft sessions for kids of all ages. Many branches also offer “Culture Passes” that you can check out for free admission to local attractions!
Looking for more local tips? Check out our Space Coast Mom Life Facebook Group to connect with other local parents and stay updated on the latest family events!
