10 Affordable Weekend Activities for Families in Surabaya–Sidoarjo
Fun, budget-friendly ways to bond, explore, and create memories without breaking your wallet
Weekends are the perfect time for families to relax, play, and reconnect after a busy week of work and school. But family outings don't have to be expensive—especially if you live in Surabaya or Sidoarjo, cities rich with culture, parks, food, and family-friendly attractions.
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, educational trips, relaxing nature spots, or simple activities your kids will love, this guide shares the best affordable weekend ideas you can enjoy together.
⭐ 1. Picnic and Play at Taman Bungkul, Surabaya
Taman Bungkul remains one of Surabaya's most iconic family parks. With wide open spaces, food stalls, skate areas, and shaded trees, it's the perfect spot for kids to run around.
What families can do:
- Picnic on the grass
- Ride bicycles or scooters
- Play at the children's playground
- Try local snacks from street vendors
Why it's affordable:
It's free to enter, and you can bring your own food. Simple, fun, and refreshing.
⭐ 2. Explore Kebun Bibit Surabaya (Wonorejo or Bratang)
Kebun Bibit is a nature haven inside the city. Families come here to enjoy fresh air, animal enclosures, and scenic lakes.
Things to enjoy:
- Feeding deer
- Walking around the lake
- Relaxing under big trees
- Taking photos of nature
Perfect for: Families who want a peaceful escape without long travel.
⭐ 3. Weekend Walk at Jalan Tunjungan
The newly revitalized Jalan Tunjungan is perfect for evening strolls.
What you can do:
- Enjoy street performances
- Take aesthetic family photos
- Try affordable local food
- Visit the outdoor art installations
Why kids love it:
The lights, murals, and atmosphere feel festive—especially during weekends.
⭐ 4. Visit the Surabaya Zoo (Kebun Binatang Surabaya)
One of the oldest zoos in Indonesia, KBS offers a fun and educational experience for children.
Highlights include:
- Orangutans
- Elephants
- Komodo dragons
- Bird aviaries
- Aquatic animals
Budget tip:
Entrance tickets remain very affordable, making it a great value family destination.
⭐ 5. Explore Sidoarjo's Alun-Alun & City Parks
Sidoarjo has several clean, family-friendly parks such as:
- Alun-Alun Sidoarjo
- Taman Abhirama
- Taman Taman Pinang Indah
Activities:
- Kids' playgrounds
- Jogging
- Light exercise
- Street food tasting
A great option for quick, low-cost outdoor time.
⭐ 6. Enjoy Local Culinary Spots: Lontong Kupang & Seafood
Sidoarjo and Surabaya are known for affordable, delicious culinary options.
Family favorites:
- Lontong Kupang
- Sate Kerang
- Bandeng Asap
- Seafood street stalls
- Ice cream cafés
You can turn your weekend into a "food adventure" without spending much.
⭐ 7. Explore the Sidoarjo Delta (Kampung Ikan, Tambak, Mangrove Areas)
Experience the unique coastal environment of Sidoarjo.
What you can do:
- Visit fish ponds
- Walk through mangrove areas
- Learn how fishermen work
- Enjoy simple seafood meals
It's peaceful, educational, and very affordable.
⭐ 8. Play & Learn at Museum Kapal Selam (Monkasel)
Located in Surabaya, Monkasel is a retired submarine turned into a museum.
Kids love it because:
- They can walk inside a real submarine
- Learn how submarines work
- See equipment used by the Navy
Budget-friendly:
Tickets are cheap, and the location is accessible.
⭐ 9. Explore Tanggulangin Leather Center
Tanggulangin is famous for its leather bags, wallets, and shoes.
Why visit with family?
- Kids can see how leather goods are made
- Parents can shop for affordable products
- Fun window-shopping experience
A great educational + shopping activity combined.
⭐ 10. Sunset Time at Kenjeran Beach (Pantai Ria or Kenpark)
Kenjeran is affordable and perfect for relaxing by the sea.
What families can do:
- Fly kites
- Take sunset photos
- Enjoy grilled seafood
- Play on the sand
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for cooler weather and scenic sunset views.
⭐ Bonus: Simple, Zero-Cost Weekend Ideas at Home
If parents prefer staying home, here are extra budget-friendly activities:
- Family movie night
- DIY craft time
- Cooking together
- Backyard camping
- Board games
- Lego challenge or puzzle night
- Storytelling games
These strengthen family bonds without needing to go out.
⭐ Why Affordable Activities Matter for Families
Choosing low-cost activities doesn't mean less joy. In fact:
✔ Kids remember moments, not price tags
✔ Simple experiences strengthen family relationships
✔ Outdoor time improves mood and health
✔ Families spend quality time without financial stress
Your presence matters more than your expenses.
⭐ Conclusion: Surabaya–Sidoarjo Is Full of Affordable Family Fun
With parks, beaches, museums, culinary adventures, and cultural streets, Surabaya–Sidoarjo offers countless low-cost activities for families.
Whether you choose outdoor exploration, educational visits, or cozy home activities, what matters most is connection, laughter, and togetherness.