As of 2026, Instagram remains one of the most well-used social media platforms, where users can post a snapshot of their moments and interact with others through the use of posts and updates. However, since Instagram stories are private by default, viewers require either the viewing permission to a anonymous story viewer or an invite from the account administrator to view them. While these built-in features meet the needs of casual users, it often happens that you encounter stories that are not publicly accessible or are not in your friend list.

Fortunately, third-party free Instagram story viewer tools can fix this problem. Here are some of the best options to consider in 2025:

1. Storypeek is the first free tool on our list. Using this service, users can view any Instagram story as long as it has been shared publicly. The interface for the tool is user-friendly, and easily available. As one of the older services, it has remained relevant, and remains free to use in 2026.
   
   
2. Next, there is Insta Stalker. While the name of this tool raises some concerns, it cannot actually use your data in any nefarious way. Insta Stalker is a bit more refined than other options, as it enables viewing and tracking but also some basic user info: view counts and other social data.
   
   
3. Have you ever noticed that many Instagram users tend to share more private content on their stories? Or perhaps even all their private posts before exhausting their contact list, only for everyone on the new list to become those pesky blockers that always seem to bring drama when their thoughts aren't so well-spoken. For individuals who prioritize their online presence, this tool allows users to strip all that background clatter. That is entirely using this last free tool on our list.
   
   

If you are seeking to securely view the Instagram story of a blocked account or an old account whose posts have been moved, there are many alternative tools and websites that offer Instagram story viewer services. Just be sure to double-check the origin you use is safe as safety in today's social media world is a hard task.