Free Things to Do in Orlando Without Skipping the Fun

By Kate Cohen

 

Orlando is one of the hottest vacation destinations in the world.  

Unfortunately, it’s also one of the priciest.  

 

A postcard inspired graphic that reads Greetings from Orlando Florida, The City Beautiful.

 

Prices to get into world-famous theme parks and attractions are the highest they've ever been, and travel costs can be equally overwhelming.  

Luckily, you can experience many wonders of Orlando for free without sacrificing a good time.  

Here are some of our favorite free things to do in Orlando without skipping the fun. 

 

Key Takeaways

 

Picnic in a Park  

 

Swans swimming on a lake surrounded by grass, palm trees, and large modern buildings.

 

Orlando is home to an array of beautiful parks and outdoor spaces that are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.  

Mead Botanical Garden spans a tranquil 47 acres of Winter Park wilderness. Take time to enjoy nature as you walk along its hiking trails, meander through its greenhouse or butterfly garden, and spend time spotting turtles, fish, and wading birds along the pond.  

In the heart of downtown Orlando is Lake Eola Park, home to the city’s iconic green fountain and hundreds of elegant swans and unique birds. Take in the sights of beautiful sculptures and art installations or catch a free concert or movie at the Walt Disney Amphitheater.  

Kraft Azalea Garden is a serene getaway in Winter Park, home to enormous cypress trees and colorful azaleas bursting with blossoms. Visitors can take in the waterfront views of Lake Maitland and pause to reflect at the beautiful Exedra Monument overlooking the water. 

 

Take Advantage of Free Admission Days at Local Museums  

 

A young couple stand in an art gallery looking at three paintings that are black, white, and yellow.

 

Many of Orlando’s wonderful museums offer guests the opportunity to visit for free on select days throughout the year.  

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of Tiffany art and glasswork. Check out the museum for free on Friday evenings from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., November through April.  

On the second Sunday of every month, Mennello Museum of American Art hosts a Free Family Fun Day, featuring hourly tours and hands-on art projects inspired by the artists of the museum’s current exhibitions.  

At Orlando Museum of Art (OMA), anyone can visit for free on the third Thursday of every month (except November). This beautiful museum in Loch Haven Park is a wonderful place to discover visual art education and experiences centered around American, contemporary, and international art. 

 

Check out a Farmers Market 

 

A pile of freshly baked breads on a table, with a vendor standing just out of focus talking to a customer.

 

Every weekend, Orlando hosts a variety of free Farmers Markets featuring local vendors selling crafts, plants, food, and other goods.  

On Sunday mornings at Lake Eola Park, you’ll find the Orlando Farmer’s Market. Since 1987, this market has been a beloved community gathering, celebrating Orlando’s diversity, creativity, and style. 

Over on the west side of Orlando, the Winter Garden Farmers Market is held on Saturday mornings. This award-winning farmers market hosts over 100 vendors weekly and features live music in the heart of historic downtown Winter Garden. 

Also held on Saturday mornings is the Winter Park Farmers Market, held in the heart of the charming Winter Park neighborhood. This popular market is full of vendors selling exquisite baked goods, juices, cheese, orchids, mushrooms, and so much more.  

 

Seek Out an Adventure

 

A large white bird perched in the boughs of lush green trees.

 

You don’t need a ticket to the theme parks to experience adventure in Orlando. Instead, there are plenty of free and unique opportunities to explore what makes Central Florida such a vibrant and exciting destination.  

If you have access to a car, head to Lake Apopka for the self-guided Wildlife Drive audio tour. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, you can drive along the one-way, 11-mile trail, taking in Florida’s lush wildlife and animals like gators, wading birds, turtles, bobcats, and more. The drive takes one to three hours and has multiple designated spots to pull over and take in the view.  

Orlando is home to a variety of stunning, colorful murals scattered throughout the city. Explore some of Central Florida’s beautiful neighborhoods in search of selfie-worthy murals. You don’t have to be an artist to appreciate The City Beautiful’s magnificent shows of artistry. 

Not far from Orlando, Clermont is home to Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards. They offer complimentary winery tours and tastings seven days a week, showcasing their award-winning wines and 127-acre estate. While the 45-minute tours are family-friendly, wine tastings are only for visitors 21 and older. 

 

Explore a New Town 

 

A cobblestone street lined with storefronts and cars.

 

Orlando is a large city with sprawling suburban areas and walking-friendly neighborhoods featuring quaint main streets. Beyond the theme parks and bustling International Drive area, there are several unique Orlando towns to explore.  

Winter Park is an upscale, artsy area with award-winning restaurants, boutiques, and green spaces. Its main street, Park Avenue, is the perfect place for a day of window shopping and people-watching. While one side of Park Ave is lined in shops and eateries, the other side is a beautiful park with fountains, a rose garden, and lush green lawn.  

Not to be confused with Winter Park, Winter Garden is another popular destination for a small town feel made up of plenty shopping and dining opportunities.  This historic district is home to a number of specialty stores, restaurants, boutiques, and the vibrant Plant St. Market, home to Crooked Can Brewing Company. 

In Downtown Orlando, Thornton Park is a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood with plenty of local color and culture. With Lake Eola Park only steps away, you can find plenty of places to eat, shop, and explore within a few city blocks. Check out the TPD Night Market every Thursday and Friday for unique finds from local artists and makers. 

 

Enjoy a Little Theme Park Magic  

 

A blue striped balloon rises against a blue sky above a foreground of colorful flowers.

 

If a ticket to the theme parks isn’t in the budget, you can still experience some of the magic of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando for free.  

Disney Springs is a massive outdoor entertainment complex packed with popular name-brand stores, Disney-themed boutiques, delicious restaurants, exciting attractions, and so much more. You’ll find plenty of Disney magic sprinkled throughout, and lots of family-friendly fun for everyone to enjoy. Parking is free, too! 

Universal CityWalk is the area leading up to the entrances to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. It’s home to bars and restaurants, a handful of stores, karaoke, mini golf, and more. It’s a fun way to experience Universal Orlando vibes without committing to a full day at the theme parks. Parking is typically free after 6 p.m., with some exceptions. 

 

Book a Budget-Friendly Hotel in Orlando  

 

The sign for Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando surrounded by beautiful colorful flowers.

 

There are plenty of fun and free things to do in Orlando. Keep your vacation even more budget-friendly by booking an affordable hotel that never compromises quality, cleanliness, or convenience.  

Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando is located on International Drive, an ideal location to get to all of Orlando’s top attractions (free or otherwise).  

We’re known for our incredible staff and friendly service, as well as our spacious and clean rooms and amenities like onsite dining, free Wi-Fi, three swimming pools, theme park shuttles, and more.  

Plus, save even more pennies with our Kids Eat Free program, where one child dines for free per paying adult at our buffet.  

Let us host you and your family for your next Orlando vacation, whatever your budget may be.  

Archives
Archives