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It's easy to feel discouraged when prices are rising everywhere. A fun day or night out with the family can quickly become out of reach. Add in multiple kids, and you're facing a serious dent in your budget — just for a few hours of entertainment that they might not even remember.
That's why it's so valuable to know where to find the best free or low-cost activities around. Fortunately, Utah offers a wealth of family-friendly venues that provide plenty of fun without draining your savings. Here are 10 of the best options to consider.
Free concerts on Temple Square
Free events are always a great way to kick off family fun, and when you're in Salt Lake City, you can't go wrong with a visit to Temple Square. While ongoing construction may be affecting some areas, the heart of this world-famous destination still offers plenty to enjoy — especially during the holiday season.
One of the best things to experience is the regular free concerts held throughout November and December. You and your family can escape the cold and enjoy live performances by local church groups, school choirs, bell ringers and more. It's a cozy, festive way to get into the holiday spirit! You can find the full concert schedule here.
Plus, with the money you'll save on this free event, you can hop over to City Creek and get some hot chocolate afterward.
Alpine Loop
Utah is home to countless breathtaking spots, but the Alpine Loop is a perennial favorite between May and October. This stunning 27-mile scenic drive winds through Uinta National Forest and the Wasatch Mountains, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn.
The drive takes about 45 minutes, and while there is a $6 recreation pass required, it's well worth the price for the unforgettable scenery and the opportunity to experience one of the state's most iconic routes.
Bonneville Salt Flats
A visit to the iconic Bonneville Salt Flats is a must for every Utahn at least once in their life. Spanning 30,000 acres of glistening salt crust, this otherworldly landscape is truly a sight to behold.
Depending on the time of year, you might even catch land-speed record attempts in action. Best of all, access to the flats is completely free. For more details about visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats, head to Utah.com.
Wheeler Farm
Few activities are more family-friendly than a visit to the historic Wheeler Farm in Murray. This charming farm offers plenty to explore, from the activity barn and historic farmhouse to the stables, gardens, trails and an old-fashioned shop.
You can wander and enjoy the farm at your own pace — admission is free! For a bit of extra fun, you can also take farmhouse tours, wagon rides, or watch milking demonstrations (seasonal), all for under $5 each. It's a great spot for a low-cost, memorable family outing.
Utah Museum of Fine Arts
For families seeking a cultural experience, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts is an excellent choice. While regular admission is $20 for adults and $16.95 for children ages 6 to 18, you can enjoy free entry on the first Wednesday and third Saturday of each month.
It's a great opportunity to explore world-class art without the cost, making it an enriching experience for the whole family.
Mrs. Cavanaugh's Chocolate Factory
If your inner child has ever dreamed of touring Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, Mrs. Cavanaugh's Chocolate Factory in North Salt Lake is the next best thing. Offering tours by appointment, you'll get an up-close look at how their delicious chocolates are made.
The cost is just $5 per person, and you'll receive $4 back to spend on chocolates at the end of the tour. Plus, the price includes tasty chocolate and ice cream samples, making it an irresistible experience for sweet-toothed families.
Hill Aerospace Museum
For families with a passion for aviation, a visit to Hill Aerospace Museum is a must. Your little aviators will be thrilled to explore over 90 military aircraft, missiles and aerospace vehicles on display.
The museum offers a fascinating journey through aviation history, and best of all, admission is completely free! It's open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Dinosaur National Monument
You don't have to be a kid to appreciate the wonders of Dinosaur National Monument — better known as Dinosaurland. Located in Vernal, this remarkable site offers something for everyone, from fossil displays at the dinosaur quarry to fascinating museums, stargazing opportunities and more.
To enter, all visitors need a recreational use pass. A seven-day pass is $25 per vehicle, or $10 for cyclists and pedestrians.
Utah Olympic Park
With the Winter Olympics returning to Utah in 2034, now is the perfect time to get your family excited for the games by visiting Utah Olympic Park in Park City.
The park offers an exhilarating experience, where you can explore Olympic history, watch athletes train and even try out some of the park's activities. Admission is free!
$5 movie nights at Megaplex Theatres
Taking the whole family to the movies can easily run over $100, especially with popcorn and drinks, but Megaplex theatres has made it more affordable with their $5 tickets on Tuesdays. If Tuesdays don't work for your schedule, they also offer $5 Reel Deals, where you can catch a featured film on select days for a great price.
It's a budget-friendly way to enjoy a night at the movies without breaking the bank. For more details, visit megaplextheatres.com.
The best things in life are free
While everything on this list offers great value, Utah is full of wonderful experiences that don't cost a thing. Whether it's hiking in the scenic hills, exploring local parks, or wandering through charming shopping districts, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the beauty and culture of the Beehive State without spending a dime. Sometimes, the simplest things can be the most memorable.
