Looking for easy outings with your baby that won’t cost a thing? (Because let’s be honest—life is expensive and there’s not always money for the new play station.) Hear me out. I know this is partially just a list of places you can shop. But sometimes during the rainy days of spring, you just need a safe, warm, stimulating place to go with baby. Think of them as your idea bank for ways to break up the repetition of infancy and monotony of exploring your house.
Lowe’s or Home Depot
There is no cost of admission! Highlights for baby include the light section, ceiling fan section, and if it is near a holiday… the inflatables section is sure to be a big hit! The garden centers can be fun too, especially when they’re full of colorful flowers.
Pet Stores
You can definitely grab some treats for Fido, but you can also walk out of the store without buying a single thing. Simply hauling yourself to the pet store and walking every aisle is a welcome break from boredom. Chat with baby about the different animals you see! There are several chains and local shops around town, including Petco, PetSmart, Hollywood Feed, Pet Supermarket, Pet Supplies Plus, and The Whole Dog. (If you’re hoping to see pets, though, Petco or PetSmart are probably your best bets!)
Antique Malls
This is such a fun staple for cold months and rainy days, because it’s always changing! With older kids, you can create a BINGO sheet for them using common things they may see, or challenge them to find items for every letter of the alphabet. I am telling you, add antiquing to your bored-day docket. Whether baby-wearing or pushing a stroller, moseying around the antique mall is seriously a great way to spend an afternoon! Need a recommendation? Check out Irondale Pickers, Urban Suburban Antiques, Gardendale Flea Mall & Antique Center, and Brass Bear Antiques.
Grocery Stores
Well, specifically a trip to Trader Joe’s during the week. It is less crowded, and there is a lot to look at (especially in the beautiful flowers section in the spring!). Yes, you’re at the grocery store, but you don’t have to spend any money. (Although it may be a dangerous temptation!) A few other grocery stores include The Fresh Market, Whole Foods, Publix, Piggly Wiggly (“the Pig”), Walmart, and ALDI. If you’re wanting a more unique experience, try Mi Pueblo Greensprings (Mexican), Mediterranean Food Market (Greek), or Hometown Supermarket (Asian), all located in West Homewood.
Local Libraries
Don’t just check out one library, check out all of them! Every library branch is a little bit different with different toys in the children’s section—not to mention different books! Every branch also offers different baby programming, so plan ahead and try them out when you go. Overall, libraries are literally the best for babies! Regardless of where you live, you can visit for free—but if you live in Jefferson County, you can check out a book at any of the 40 locations. Shelby County libraries have a similar system. While you are checking out books, be sure to inquire about Dolly Parton’s FREE Imagination Library, which will send a monthly book right to your doorstep for freeeee.
Malls
Sometimes a change of scenery, and some space to stretch your legs, is all you really need to get a little boost of energy. Visiting local malls is a unique way to check both of those boxes. It is interesting to see how malls have changed over the years, see what stores are actually still open—and we definitely did list this as a free activity, even though we know you will probably hit up the pretzel stand (no judgment!). The Riverchase Galleria is a classic, as is The Summit, which is a perfect spot on pretty days. And The Shops of Grand River in Leeds has a Bass Pro Shop… aka it’s always worth a stop.
Birmingham Museum of Art (BMA)
It is free and fun and cultural! The BMA also has a space called ArtVenture that’s designed specifically for little ones. The Sonat Gallery allows crawlers and toddlers to explore light, color, and texture. Stroll baby around and peruse the art, pointing out your favorites.
You can do this! You can break free of the stir-crazy feeling of having an infant or toddler at home during the rainy days of spring. Have a little adventure!
Free Things to Do with a Baby: Easy Places to Walk Around
