You don’t need major funds to have major fun in Orlando; just look at these free activities.
We promise these free things to do are more than just an aimless walk in the park. Instead, we’re making sure you get well-researched, unique suggestions worth the trip.
Arts
Lake Nona Sculpture Garden | Located next to the technologically-advanced Lake Nona Wave Hotel, the 50,000-sqft outdoor garden features work from renowned artists like Fernando Botero, Philip Jackson, Henry Moore, and Enzo Plazzotta.
Morse Museum of American Art | This one’s a must-do for the Louis Comfort Tiffany lovers among us. It’s the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by the artist — including jewelry, pottery, art glass, leaded-glass lamps and windows, and even the chapel interior from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
Avalon Park’s Arts and Culture Center | Roam the local artist-focused gallery + enjoy performing arts at the Center’s Open Mics and Community Kickbacks. Or, get some use out of those pipes by taking part in the Community Choir.
Bring a camera along to snap dreamy landscape photos while park hopping.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Orange County Library | It’s more than just books. Residents can enjoy Dungeons and Dragons groups, crochet and 3D-printing classes, and a behemoth of other options.
The Mennello Museum of American Art | Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders score free admission to American art collection on the first Saturday + Sunday of each month. Check out the current exhibitions — like one on art pollination.
The Orlando Museum of Art | On the third Thursday of each month, you can check out the 80,000-sqft museum’s 15 galleries, public rotunda, and education wing completely free.
Edu
The Central Florida Railroad Museum | Dive into Central Florida’s rich railroad history by roaming the museum’s photos, exhibits, maps, and historic railroad artifacts. Make sure you set eyes on the collection of dining car china and silver service — it’s one of the largest public displays in the Southeast.
Orlando Science Center | You’ll need more than just a day to spend time with the center’s exhibits — ranging from DC Super Heroes to the Solar System.
Orange County Regional History Center | Visit the historic courthouse on the third Thursday of each month from 5 to 9 p.m. to browse the Smithsonian affiliate’s four floors. There are exhibits on all the people who have called Central Florida home, women’s soccer trailblazers, plus tons of events and camps.
Disney Springs gets decked out for the winter holidays.
Photo via Disney Springs
For kids
Disney Springs | You can also get a bit of Walt’s magic from wandering the popular shopping, restaurant, and entertainment district. Check the calendar for concerts, festivals, and other free Disney delights.
Enzian Theater’s Popcorn Flicks in the Park | Tow the whole fam along to Winter Park’s Central Park for classic movies the second Thursday of each month.
Operation Recreation Kids GeoTour | This one might take a while. Download the tracking sheet and tick off 20 caches as you visit Florida State Parks to win the Official Operation Recreation Geocoin.
Maitland Fire-Rescue Department’s Tours | Yes, the fire and rescue operations pros would be happy to “show you around [their] house.” Just email the department to set up a visit.
OCLS’s Local Wanderer Program | Request one of the Orange County Library System’s culture passes to visit spots like Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, and Leu Gardens for free.
Universal CityWalk | Some call it “The Epicenter of Awesome,” and we’d have to agree. This is the place for people watching, window shopping, and getting some kiddo energy out.
Outdoors
Lake Eola Park | This downtown Orlando park surrounds — you guessed it — Lake Eola. Trek along the 0.9-mile path, take photos of the skyline and swans, picnic along the lake, pop in a swan boat (you’ll have to pay for that one), or catch a performance at the Walt Disney Amphitheater.
Disney Resort’s Jogging Trails | You don’t need to stay at Disney to get a taste of the magic, thanks to free access to the resort’s trails. Just take public transit to your resort of choice, then take off on sneaks.
Kraft Azalea Garden | Pack a hammock, picnic, or beach tote to spend some time at the 13-acre lakefront park. Make sure to take a photo under the towering Exedra Monument — it’s a popular holiday card spot.
Orlando Farmers Market | Snap up free samples of fresh cheese, drinks, and other delights, chat with local makers, and enjoy the community around the scenic Lake Eola. The market takes place every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Loch Haven Park | Known as the “region’s premier cultural park,” Loch Haven is home to the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Family Stage, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Fire Museum, Mennello Museum of American Art, Orlando Ballet, Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, and Ivanhoe Village Mainstreet District. Yes, that’s all.
