Because schools are closed to observe the holiday, you may be looking for fun things to do on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Thankfully there are many fun activities planned. Some of the events are specifically designed to remember Martin Luther King Jr., while others are just fun options to get you out of the house.

Make it a Museum Day – FREE or Discounted Admission to Area Museums on MLK Day

With over 60 amazing museums in Ohio, it’s not hard to find one that the whole family will enjoy with many offering special Martin Luther King Jr. programs and events.

Check below for our updated list of those offering FREE and discounted admission on MLK Day before you go.

FREE MLK Day Celebration at the Akron Art Museum – Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with FREE public hours at the Museum. Related photographs from the collection will be on view and interactive activities will be available in the lobby. {Find Out More}

FREE MLK Day at the Great Lakes Science Center – The science center typically offers free admission on Martin Luther King Day. Check their events calendar for details. {Find Out More}

Free Discovery Day at Cleveland Museum of Natural History – Enjoy all-day free admission to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, connect with scientists, watch wildlife presentations and 3D movies, and take part in hands-on activities. {Find Out More}

FREE MLK Day at the Cleveland Art Museum – Enjoy a free daylong celebration honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with live entertainment by DJ Kristyles, Art Stories, a family portrait booth, and more! {Find Out More}

Hear Our Voices: FREE MLK Day Celebration at the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage – Tour the Maltz Museum’s core collections at no cost. Free admission with advance registration. {Find Out More}

FREE Celebration Concert with The Cleveland Orchestra – Sunday, January 14, 2024 – Free general admission tickets to this special performance. Must register for tickets online in advance. {Find Out More}

FREE Community Open House & Day of Music with The Cleveland Orchestra – Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with free community performances and family-friendly activities. {Find Out More}

Go Ice Skating at a Seasonal Outdoor Rink

Head out for a fun afternoon of ice skating at one of the outdoor ice skating rinks. There are 10 options to choose from with locations across Northeast Ohio. Make sure to check their holiday hours. Pro tip: Take a thermos of hot chocolate with you or stop by your favorite café to pick up a warm drink and treat to enjoy when you’re done.

Visit the Animals at the Zoo

Often animals are more active during the winter months so a trip to the zoo is a perfect option of a January afternoon. Head over to the Cleveland Zoo or visit the Akron Zoo and take advantage of their offer of free admission for MLK Day.

FREE Admission to the Akron Zoo 
Free admission for all guests. Parking rates apply. {Find Out More}

Take a Hike on a Unique Trail

Located in Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Reservation, the stone carvings at Worden’s Ledges are a fascinating treasure all ages will enjoy. The short .7-mile hike leads through beautiful scenery and moss-covered ledges. Then out of nowhere, you’ll discover historic carvings among the stones. It’s like a nature scavenger hunt!

Another fun option is to hike to a waterfall. There are so many great waterfalls in Ohio and many are easily accessible. Use our guide to find a trail near you and spend the day in nature. 

You can also check your nearby Metroparks for themed activities and special naturalist-led hikes planned for the day.

Burn Off Energy at an Indoor Fun Center

Depending on the weather or if your family prefers to stay warm and cozy during the cold days, there are plenty of fun things for you to do inside too. For active fun try a new indoor play center or obstacle course. 

And there is no need to wait until summer to play a round or two of mini golf. Instead, head to one of these Glow in the Dark Indoor Mini Golf Courses. 

Plan a Weekend Getaway

With the kids off school for a long weekend, you may want to load up the car and head out on a mini road trip. Not sure where to go, we’ve got you covered! Our top picks for weekend getaways in Ohio include big cities, small towns, and outdoor adventure options. Where will you go next?!

Have Fun at Home

Prefer to spend the day at home. We have a list of 85+ At-Home Activities for all ages. You’re sure to find one (or more!) activities your kids will love!

You may also be interested in: Winter Fun Guide – 100+ Things to Do this Winter