Free & Cheap Things to Do in Santa Cruz, CA

  • The list below includes 175 free or cheap things to do in or near Santa Cruz, California, including 101 different types of inexpensive activities like Beaches, Movie Theaters, Fishing and Walking Trails.
  • From West Cliff Drive to Wilder Ranch State Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Santa Cruz and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Cupertino, Capitola, Aptos and Saratoga.
  • The list below includes 175 free or cheap things to do in or near Santa Cruz, California, including 101 different types of inexpensive activities like Beaches, Movie Theaters, Fishing and Walking Trails.
  • From West Cliff Drive to Wilder Ranch State Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Santa Cruz and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Cupertino, Capitola, Aptos and Saratoga.
Showing 171-180 of 688
25.0 Miles
100% 2 votes
Parks Between Short St & Sinex Ave, Between Melrose St & Alder Street, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 MoreLess Info
George Washington Park is a 20 acre park featuring large areas of unimproved forest land, providing a habitat for local wildlife. The park maintains a playground, baseball field, nature trails, and a picnic area.
25.0 Miles
67% 3 votes
Playgrounds 141-199 Caledonia Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 MoreLess Info
A 1.69-acre community park, Caledonia Park features a basketball court and a grass baseball field that can be used for recreational activities. The park offers shaded areas, an ADA-compliant playground, picnic tables and restroom facilities.
25.0 Miles
55% 340 votes
Bowling 20990 Homestead Road, Cupertino, CA 95014 MoreLess Info
A 32-lane bowling center, Homestead Bowl & The X Bar offers open and league bowling with automatic scoring. The center is home to a full-service sports bar with karaoke, live music, a variety of beer and televisions.
25.0 Miles
100% 12 votes
Farms & Ranches 22500 Cristo Rey Drive, Cupertino, CA 94040 MoreLess Info
In operation for over 160 years, Deer Hollow Farm is now a nonprofit environmental education facility that attracts more than 100,000 students each year. The farm hosts a variety of programs that vary by season.
25.0 Miles
14% 7 votes
Dog Park 400 Mantelli Drive, Gilroy, CA 95020 MoreLess Info
Located within Las Animas Veterans Park, Gilroy Dog Park features gravel fields for canine recreation and exercise. The park provides drinking water, picnic tables, benches, trees, a double-gated entrance and a separate small dog area.
25.0 Miles
79% 24 votes
Hiking Trails Malaguerra & Morning Star Drive, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 MoreLess Info
Coyote Creek Trail & Bike Path is a 15 mile paved trail. The trail is relatively flat with a few areas with slight gains in elevation. Those interested in bike riding, hiking, and scenic views may enjoy Coyote Creek Trail.
25.1 Miles
89% 135 votes
Natural History Museums 165 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 MoreLess Info
Since 1883, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has showcased the birds and wildlife, geology, plants and cultural richness that make the area special. There is an array of exhibits for guests to explore, including monarch sanctuaries, lush gardens and a fossil dig pit.
25.1 Miles
100% 6 votes
Art Gallery 612 Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 MoreLess Info
At Artisana Gallery, visitors can enjoy the work of over 30 local artists, from photography prints to jewelry pieces. The gallery hosts events such as art walks, receptions, and more.
25.1 Miles
50% 2 votes
Parks Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 MoreLess Info
A half-acre park, Jewell Park is a well-groomed city park that features a gazebo and small house that can be rented for weddings and other functions. The park also features picnic areas.
25.1 Miles
100% 3 votes
Horseback Riding 1690 San Pedro Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 MoreLess Info
Specializing in competitive horse riding lessons, Ligara Farms runs visitors through the basics of equine maintenance and riding. It also hosts monthly tournaments and horse shows where visitors can watch experienced riders display their skills.
Showing 171-180 of 688
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