14 Free & Low-Cost Things to Do with Kids This Summer in Pace & Milton, FL

At Manning’s Feed and Seed, we know that summer is best spent outdoors, making memories with the people you love. Whether you're planning daily adventures or just need to get the kids out of the house, we’ve rounded up the best free and low-cost family-friendly activities around Pace and Milton. From splash pads and scenic trails to blueberry picking and local markets—you'll find something fun for everyone without breaking the bank!

🛝 Parks & Splash Pads

1. Benny Russell Park & Splash Pad (Pace)A local favorite! Enjoy a large playground with shaded seating, clean bathrooms, and a splash pad open Tuesday–Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.

2. Carpenter’s Park (Milton)Located near the river, this park includes a playground, splash pad, covered seating, and plenty of green space. (Check City of Milton website for updates.)

3. Milton RiverwalkA peaceful spot to walk along the water, feed ducks, enjoy picnic tables, or explore downtown Milton shops nearby.

   
   

🚶‍♀️ Trails & Nature Walks

4. Blackwater Heritage State TrailAn 8.1-mile paved trail perfect for biking, walking, or rollerblading. Flat, partially shaded, and great for strollers and scooters.

5. Yellow River Marsh PreserveFor the little nature explorers! Enjoy peaceful walking paths, birdwatching, and rare plants like pitcher plants in this hidden gem.

6. Arcadia Mill Archaeological SiteFeatures a short boardwalk through woods and wetlands, plus a small free museum with local history. Great for a quiet nature break.

   
   

📚 Free Library Events

7. Santa Rosa County Library – Pace & Milton BranchesSummer programs include:

   • Storytime

   • STEAM Makerspace

   • Movie Time Tuesdays

   • Theater Thursdays

   • Community Chess & Breezy Builders

   
   

These events are completely free and part of the county-wide summer reading initiative running June 3 through July 19. Activities are designed especially for school-age kids and include STEAM projects, themed movie afternoons, and educational fun to keep young minds active all summer long. (Check the library calendar for times and event details.)

🛍 Farmers Markets

💲 Free to attend – items available for purchase

8. Market of Pace (Saturdays 9 AM–12 PM)Held at Woodbine Baptist Church. Enjoy local goods, fresh produce, and friendly faces.

9. The Market at Milton – Jernigan’s Landing (Thursdays 5–8 PM)A lovely evening event by the river with food trucks, handmade items, and live entertainment.

   
   

🍇 U-Pick Farms

💲 Free to enter – pay only for what you pick

10. Blue Basket Farms (8655 Hwy 89, Milton)Blueberries ~$4/lb, plus sunflowers and seasonal vegetables. Open through early July. Very family-friendly and accepts cards.

11. Richie’s Blueberries (5060 Ronnie Rd, East Milton)U-pick blueberries ~$3.50/lb. Open daily while berries last. Follow their Facebook page for up-to-date picking hours.

12. Lundy Blueberry Farm (SR 89 north of Milton)Open Monday–Saturday, 7 AM–7 PM. Pick blueberries and blackberries. Cash only.

13. Arc Santa Rosa (6225 Dixie Rd, Milton)A nonprofit-supported U-pick farm with blueberries and muscadines. Open weekdays 8 AM–2 PM.

    
    

👉 Please check each farm’s Facebook page or website before visiting. U-pick availability often depends on weather and crop supply, and farms may close early if fields are picked out for the day.

🚣 Bonus: Local Low-Cost Adventure

14. Bob’s Canoe Rentals (Milton)Not free—but very affordable and a favorite for families.

    • Tubes: $20–$23/person

    • Canoes (2 adults + 2 kids): $55 total

    • Kayaks: $37/person(Cash only – check their Facebook page for updates)

    
    

✅ Tips for Summer Adventures

• Bring sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, and cash (some vendors and farms are cash-only).

• Go early in the day for cooler temps and better selection at markets and U-pick farms.

• Follow local farms and markets on Facebook—they post updates, closures, and ripe crop notices regularly.

• Bring bug spray and closed-toe shoes for nature trails or picking fields.

Whether you're walking the Riverwalk, filling buckets with blueberries, or splashing at the park, small-town summers are something special. Manning’s Feed and Seed is proud to be part of this community—and we hope your summer is full of joy, fresh air, and unforgettable family time.

Come see us at Manning’s for all your garden, animal, and outdoor needs this season. We’ll see you around town!

Let me know if you'd like this as a PDF, blog upload, or email newsletter format!