5 free places to visit with children in Nairobi during the August school holidays
By Ascah Mwango, July 30, 2026School holidays do not have to come with an expensive price tag. Nairobi has plenty of hidden gems where children can laugh, explore and burn off all that holiday energy without parents worrying about entrance fees. If you are looking for fun days out that create lasting memories while keeping your wallet happy, these five spots are worth a visit.
Uhuru Park
Freshly revamped, Uhuru Park has become one of Nairobi’s best public spaces for families. The wide green lawns give children plenty of room to run, play football, fly a kite or simply enjoy being outdoors.
Parents can spread out a picnic blanket, unpack homemade snacks and spend the afternoon watching the little ones make up games with nothing more than open space and imagination. The beautiful city skyline also makes it a great place for family photos before school resumes.
City Park
City Park remains one of Nairobi’s most charming green spaces. The towering trees provide shade while the playful monkeys and colourful birds keep children entertained.
It is an ideal place for nature walks, simple treasure hunts or teaching children about different tree species. Just remember to keep food secure because the monkeys are always on the lookout for an easy snack.
Michuki Memorial Park
For families looking for peace and fresh air, Michuki Memorial Park offers a relaxing escape from the city’s busy streets.
Children can enjoy races, skipping games or simply explore the walking paths while parents unwind. The park is also a good place to teach young ones about environmental conservation and why clean rivers and green spaces matter.
Jeevanjee Gardens
Located in the heart of the city, Jeevanjee Gardens is perfect for a quick family outing. The spacious lawns, benches and mature trees provide a calm setting where children can play while parents relax.
Bring along a storybook, a ball or even a deck of cards, and you can easily spend a few enjoyable hours together without spending a coin on entertainment.
Nairobi Arboretum
The Nairobi Arboretum feels like a quiet forest tucked inside the city. It is home to hundreds of tree species, birds and butterflies that make every walk feel like a small adventure.
Children can learn about nature, collect fallen leaves for fun craft ideas or simply enjoy spotting birds among the trees. It is the perfect place to swap screen time for fresh air and real-life exploration.
The best holidays are often the simplest
Children do not measure a fun day by how much money was spent. They remember chasing each other across a field, spotting a cheeky monkey, sharing snacks under a tree and laughing until everyone is tired.
This August, you do not need an expensive itinerary to keep the family entertained. A little planning, a packed lunch and Nairobi’s beautiful public spaces are enough to turn an ordinary day into a holiday memory worth keeping.