Summer in South Florida is hot, but there is plenty to keep the family busy without spending a fortune. From shady parks to cool indoor museums, here is a friendly guide to free and low-cost things to do in Weston and western Broward this summer. Hours and prices can change, so it is always smart to call or check the official website before you head out.
Weston Regional Park
This 102-acre park is a local favorite for good reason. There is room to walk, play, and picnic, plus sports fields and courts. Best of all, it is free. Please note that dogs are not allowed here.
Address: 20200 Saddle Club Rd, Weston. Hours: daily, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Cost: free.
Markham Park (Sunrise)
Markham Park is a big Broward County park with trails, a target range, a model-airplane field, and a popular splash-and-swim area in the warmer months. It is a great pick for an active family day.
Address: 16001 W. State Rd. 84, Sunrise. Cost: free on weekdays; about $3 per vehicle on weekends and holidays.
Tree Tops Park (Davie)
Tree Tops Park offers shady oak hammocks, a lake, walking trails, and horseback riding nearby. It is one of the prettiest spots in the area for a slow morning or an easy hike with the kids.
Address: 3900 SW 100th Ave, Davie. Cost: free on weekdays; about $3 per vehicle on weekends and holidays.
Weston Branch Library
When the heat is too much, the library is a cool and free place to spend an afternoon. The Broward County Library runs a free summer learning program with story times, crafts, and special guests. Check the branch calendar for this week’s events.
Address: 4205 Bonaventure Blvd, Weston. Cost: free.
Flamingo Gardens (Davie)
Flamingo Gardens is a wildlife sanctuary and botanical garden with flamingos, alligators, otters, and a walk-through aviary. Kids love the animal encounters and the tram tour. This one is a paid outing, but it is a full day of fun and learning.
Address: 3750 S. Flamingo Rd, Davie. Hours: daily from 9:30 a.m., with last entry at 4 p.m. Cost: about $24 for adults, $17 for children ages 3 to 11, and free for little ones under 2. Parking is free. Senior discounts are available, so call to ask.
Museum of Discovery and Science (Fort Lauderdale)
The Museum of Discovery and Science, known as MODS, is packed with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, and weekend science activities. South Florida residents can save with a Discovery Pass, and families in the SNAP or WIC programs can visit for a low Museums for All rate.
Address: 401 SW 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale. Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Cost: Discovery Pass for residents is about $25 for adults and $19 for children (photo ID required); Museums for All is about $4 per person for up to four people.
Young At Art Museum (Plantation)
Young At Art is a hands-on children’s art museum inside the Broward Mall in Plantation. Kids can paint, build, and explore creative play spaces, all indoors and out of the heat. Summer hours and admission have changed recently, so please call ahead to confirm before you go.
Address: 8000 W Broward Blvd, Suite 1208, Plantation. Phone: 954-424-0085.
Frequently asked questions
What is free to do with kids in Weston this summer? Weston Regional Park and the Weston Branch Library are both free, and the library runs a free summer program with activities for children.
Where can we go to escape the heat? Indoor spots like the Weston Branch Library, the Museum of Discovery and Science, and Young At Art are great ways to stay cool.
Do the county parks charge an entrance fee? Broward County parks like Markham and Tree Tops are free on weekdays and charge about $3 per vehicle on weekends and holidays.
Are these places good for young children? Yes. Flamingo Gardens, MODS, and Young At Art are all built with families and young kids in mind.
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