Apex is full of parks, trails, and programs that never cost a cent. Here's the local mom's shortlist.
Known officially as the Peak of Good Living, Apex is a fast-growing town in southwestern Wake County that perfectly blends small-town charm with modern family amenities. The walkable historic downtown — complete with local ice cream shops, boutiques, and a beloved hardware store — hosts some of the Triangle's best community events. Apex Nature Park and the Beaver Creek Greenway give families easy access to outdoor adventure, while the Apex Center provides year-round swimming, fitness, and youth programs. Families here enjoy top-rated Wake County schools, a tight-knit community feel, and quick access to Jordan Lake for beach days and kayaking.
The good news for Apex families: you do not need a big budget to fill a weekend. Below is our hand-picked list of the spots that are always free in and around Apex, followed by a live list of free family events happening here in the next week. This page is updated continuously.
“Historic downtown Salem Street plus the Pleasant Park splash pad. Block off the last Saturday of October — the Apex Halloween Parade is the real deal.”
Updated September 10, 2026
These places have free admission or free entry year-round — no event, no season, no catch. Bookmark them.
Evans Road, Apex
A beautiful park with paved and natural trails, a large playground, a disc golf course, and open meadows — free to enjoy. The trail system connects to the larger Apex greenway network for longer family walks.
Best for: Playground days, easy trails
Salem Street, Apex
One of the most charming downtowns in the Triangle, and free to stroll. Window-shop along Salem Street, watch the trains, and soak in the small-town feel. The whole town comes out for PeakFest in May.
Best for: Family strolls, small-town charm
Through Apex
A paved multi-use trail running through Apex, connecting parks and neighborhoods — free and flat. Great for family bike rides, jogging strollers, and after-school walks when kids need to burn energy.
Best for: Bike rides, strollers
Free, family-friendly events in Apex over the next week — pulled live from our calendar.
More ways to find free and family-friendly things to do in Apex and across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
The full guide to things to do with kids in Apex — parks, venues, and neighborhoods.
Our evergreen guide to the always-free museums, parks, and greenways across the Triangle.
Our editors' hand-picked family events for the coming weekend.
The live, filterable list of every free family event this week.
