You don’t have to spend a dime to fill a Midland afternoon. Between nature preserves, parks, and the library, there’s plenty for families to do for free. Here’s a guide, with addresses so you can plan ahead.
Watersong Wild Space
Watersong Wild Space (formerly the I-20 Wildlife Preserve), at 2201 S. Midland Drive, is a free urban nature preserve built around a playa wetland. It has walking trails, boardwalks over the water, a butterfly garden, a hawk tower, and birdwatching blinds. Admission is free. It’s an easy outing for kids who like to spot birds, bugs, and turtles.
Sibley Nature Center
Sibley Nature Center, at 1307 E. Wadley Avenue, sits on roughly 49 acres of trails along the Llano Estacado. Admission is free. There’s a wildlife viewing area for birds, wildflowers, and a bee colony, and the center runs free family programming through the year: presentations, hands-on crafts, and guided trail walks. Pack a picnic and make a morning of it.
Centennial Park
Centennial Park, at 200 W. Wall Street, anchors downtown with play areas, open lawn, and a dog park. A cart at the park offers toys, games, books, and crafts free to use while you’re there, and the splash pad runs in the warmer months for a free way to cool off. It’s a central, low-effort stop that pairs well with a downtown errand.
The Public Library
The Midland County Public Library (both the downtown location and the Centennial branch) runs free storytimes and rotating seasonal exhibits that give kids an indoor option when the West Texas heat or wind makes outside a tougher sell. Check the library’s calendar for current storytime days and times.
Neighborhood Parks and Playgrounds
Beyond the marquee spots, the City of Midland operates dozens of free neighborhood parks with playgrounds and open space spread across town. When you just need to burn off an hour, the closest city park is usually the simplest answer. Find the one nearest you on the City of Midland parks page.
Keep exploring: Parks in Midland, Texas: A Local Guide, Bowling and Family Fun in Midland, Texas, and A Guide to Museums in Midland, Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are free things to do in Midland with kids?
Free options include Watersong Wild Space, Sibley Nature Center, Centennial Park, the Midland County Public Library’s storytimes, and the city’s neighborhood parks and playgrounds.
Is Watersong Wild Space free?
Yes. Admission is free, with trails, boardwalks, a butterfly garden, and bird blinds at 2201 S. Midland Drive.
What can kids do at Sibley Nature Center?
Sibley offers free trails, a wildlife viewing area, and free family programming including crafts and guided walks, at 1307 E. Wadley Avenue.
Where can kids play indoors for free in Midland?
The Midland County Public Library hosts free storytimes and seasonal exhibits at its downtown and Centennial locations, a good rainy-day or beat-the-heat option.
Does Midland have a free splash pad?
Centennial Park downtown has a splash pad that runs in the warmer months at no charge. (Some standalone aquatic centers and seasonal splash pads do charge admission.)
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