When the weather is sunny during Spring Break, it’s easy to get outside and enjoy nature, but when it’s pouring rain for days on end, Spring Break can be an expensive two-week break for parents. With the ever-rising cost of camps, indoor play centres, and popular attractions, it’s nice to have a few free (or cheap) activities to balance out the pricier days.
Check out our Top 10 FREE (or cheap) ideas for Spring Break 2025:
1. Chapters Indigo Craft & Games
Starting at 1pm each day during the first week of Spring Break, Chapters Indigo hosts fun themed workshops for kids. Activities range from LEGO building to water painting to Magna-Tile fun! It’s best to arrive early to find a spot, but there are often plenty of supplies for kids to join even if you don’t get a spot at the table right at 1pm.
2. Mastermind Toys
If you’re thinking about picking up some new toys or wondering whether your kids will be interested in before you buy something new, Mastermind Toys offers daily demos during the first week of Spring Break for some of the most popular toys and activities. Then, join an activity from 1pm-3pm building Make and Take toys from LEGO, bracelets, Mega bloks, and more.
3. Wander Granville Island and Play at the Kids Market
One of my favourite outings with the kids is to head to Granville Island for a walk and window-shop at the colourful artisan shops. We usually grab lunch in the market and sit outside if the weather is decent, and then finish our day with a stop into the Kids Market. During Spring Break, there are FREE activities running from March 17-28 including puppet shows, live music, facepainting, and crafts. The activities run at 12:30pm and 2:00pm.
4. Burnaby Village Museum
Step back in time at Burnaby Village Museum and explore each of the unique historical buildings. See how homes and businesses used to look and learn more about the different cultures that helped shape communities like Burnaby. Entrance is FREE! Carousel Rides are $2.62 and are well worth the money as a fun treat at the end of your exploration.
5. Spring Break Salmon Run at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery
When was the last time you visited the Gulf of Georgia Cannery? This fabulous museum shows visitors was life was like during it’s heyday with exciting exhibits and plenty of hands-on learning for all ages. During Spring Break, learn about the lifecycle of the salmon that return every year to spawn as you complete challenges and salmon-themed activities. It’s full day of fun, and the best part is that it’s absolutely FREE for kids 17 and under!
6. Wild Wonders at Fort Langley National Historic Site
Another incredible historical attraction offers FREE admission to children and youth 17 and under. Spend a day exploring the Fort in each of their cabins to learn about the fur-trading business. During Spring Break, the Fort has planned tons of hands-on activities and learning experiences to teach visitors about animals and the world around us.
7. Staples Kids Workshops
There are TWO free workshops being hosted by Staples during Spring Break 2025! The first is on March 18th at 1:00pm and invites visitors to Make a Mini Magician. The second event is on March 20 at 1:00pm and is a Finger Loom Craft. Both events require advanced registration.
8. Special Events at Richmond Public Libraries
Libraries are great places to save money and participate in FREE activities. As a bonus, you can pick up some new books while you’re there to take home and spend a cozy afternoon snuggled up reading. Head to the Richmond Public Library during Spring Break for FREE activities for school-aged children and youth. Learn robotics, digital arts, and Cricut, participate in a Super Mario Bros tournament, and explore your creativity with fun arts and crafts.
9. Museum of Surrey
The Museum of Surrey is a favourite spot for many families because of the varied and ever-changing exhibits, the exciting events they frequently put on and the fact that it is TOTALLY free! Spend Spring Break at the Surrey Museum and take part in their fun “Into the Woods” themed events. Visitors will learn about animals, Surrey parks, and the forests around them.
10. Explore the Steveston Tram
Enjoy family fun for all ages at the historic Steveston Tram. Drop in and explore the historic Tram Car 1220, take on the role of “Junior Conductor,” look for Hamm the Pig on and around the tram, and have a blast!
