Free GraphQL APIs You Can Use Today

Whether you're building a demo, running a workshop, or just learning how GraphQL works, it's always easier with real examples. While Apollo Server makes spinning up your own API smooth, sometimes you just want something ready to go.

Good news: there are several public GraphQL APIs you can use for free. Here are eight of them, complete with sample queries to get you started.

1. SpaceX API

Get information about past launches, rockets, and more.

Example Query:

{
  launchesPast(limit: 10) {
    mission_name
    launch_date_local
    launch_site {
      site_name_long
    }
    links {
      article_link
      video_link
    }
    rocket {
      rocket_name
    }
  }
}

Try it here

2. SWAPI (Star Wars API)

For Star Wars fans. Great for showing how GraphQL handles nested relationships.

Example Query:

{
  allFilms {
    films {
      title
    }
  }
}

Try it here

3. Rick and Morty API

Fetch characters, episodes, and locations from the Rick and Morty universe.

Example Query:

{
  characters(page: 2, filter: { name: "rick" }) {
    info {
      count
    }
    results {
      name
    }
  }
}

Try it here

4. Countries API

Get info on country names, codes, and emoji.

Example Query:

{
  countries {
    code
    name
    emoji
  }
}

Try it here

5. PokeAPI (GraphQL Wrapper)

All the data needed for a Pokédex. Rate-limited and free for non-commercial use.

Example Query:

{
  gen1_species: pokemon_v2_pokemonspecies(
    where: { pokemon_v2_generation: { name: { _eq: "generation-i" } } }
    order_by: { id: asc }
  ) {
    name
    id
  }
}

Try it here

6. DexAPI

Another Pokémon API, fast and great for quick queries. Still in early development.

Example Query:

{
  allPokemon {
    name
  }
}

Try it here

7. Anilist API

Access thousands of anime titles. Free for non-commercial use with generous rate limits.

Example Query:

{
  Page {
    media {
      siteUrl
      title {
        english
        native
      }
      description
    }
  }
}

Try it here

8. GitHub API

A robust API perfect for real-world GraphQL exploration. Supports queries and mutations.

Note: You’ll need a personal access token and must add an Authorization header in Apollo Explorer.

Example Query:

{
  viewer {
    login
    repositories(last: 10) {
      nodes {
        name
      }
    }
  }
}

Check the docs

These public APIs are perfect for practicing GraphQL without setup headaches. Whether you're exploring schema design or teaching a class, these options have you covered.

Happy Coding...