BUDGET-FRIENDLY ORLANDO ACTIVITIES

Free Activities to Explore in Orlando

With lots of attractions offering free admission, you can explore some of the city’s best sights without spending a dime.

Take a Tour of the Orlando Brewing Company

Go behind the scenes and get a closer look at the city’s premier craft brewery. Their organic beers are available at over 500 locations around Florida, making them a popular choice among locals and discerning drinkers. Tours are available Monday through Saturday starting at 6 pm Be sure to arrive early as tickets are first-come, first-served. Parking is available on-site, as well as street parking next to the brewery.

Tickets: Free

Visit a Museum

Throughout Orlando, you’ll find several museums offering complimentary admission, so you can enjoy an afternoon of rich culture for free.

Rollins Museum of Art

Located on the campus of Rollins College in Winter Park, this museum hosts rotating exhibits and a permanent collection of classic and contemporary art. Unique to the Rollins Museum of Art, visitors will find the only European Old Master paintings in the city. Parking is available on-site in museum-designated spaces, at the main Rollins Parking Garage, and the SunTrust Plaza Parking Garage.

Tickets: Free

Zora Neale Hurston Museum

In nearby Eatonville, the Zora Neale Hurston Museum aims to provide a space for African American artists to share their work. In addition to traditional galleries, the museum hosts exhibitions every three to four months, including an opening reception and gallery talk, giving visitors an inside perspective of the museum’s collections.

Tickets: Free

Go for a Winery Tour and Tasting at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

With a 127-acre estate located about 25 miles west of downtown Orlando, Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards offers a lovely setting to sip a glass or two of vino. You can also check out the area’s best food trucks and enjoy live outdoor music. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards offers complimentary tours and tasting, where visitors can enjoy samplings of the best wines they have to offer.

Tickets: Free

Take in a Concert at the Amphitheater at Lake Eola

Lake Eola Park is home to the Walt Disney Amphitheater in the heart of downtown Orlando. Visitors can enjoy a live concert or play courtesy of local artists performing in this large outdoor amphitheater. Surrounded by Orlando’s beautiful skyline, this event space is one of the city’s most popular outdoor venues. Street parking is widely available next to the park.

Tickets: Free

Take a Walk Through Mead Botanical Garden

You’ll find the gorgeous grounds of Mead Botanical Garden in Winter Park, where you can enjoy a wide range of family-friendly activities. Local wildlife and beautiful gardens make this destination a great place to take a relaxing stroll. There are also hiking paths and trails around the park and plenty of open spaces to sit down for a picnic when you’re ready to take a break and absorb the beauty of the gardens. Admission is free to the public, and the gardens are open every day from 8 am to dusk.

Tickets: Free

Go for a Hike or a Bike Ride

The Orlando area offers a variety of hiking trails, perfect for exploring, getting in a workout, or just enjoying a day out in nature.

Tibet-Butler Preserve

Tibet-Butler Preserve has 3.6 miles of gentle hiking trails that are ideal for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The trail system incorporates many of the region’s major habitats, in addition to a butterfly garden and open area for picnics. Friendly park officials will help you plan your trek, including a quick lesson on the habitats and wildlife you may encounter. Park admission is free of charge and is open every day, 8 am – 6 pm.

Tickets: Free

Lake Lotus Park

Lake Lotus Park spans 150 acres, with 120 acres of woods and wetlands to explore. Take a hike through the park, or enjoy the walking trails, playground areas, and bike riding paths. Visitors will also find great spots to host picnics and barbecues. Parking is available on-site near the pavilions or off-site on Magnolia Homes Road. Visit the park Sunday through Thursday from 8:30 am – 6:30 pm.

Tickets: Free

Orlando Urban Trail

If you prefer to spend an afternoon cycling, head to downtown Orlando for a uniquely urban scenic view. Orlando’s Urban Trail is about three miles, featuring three lakes, two bridges, and connections to both Orlando Cultural Park and the Gaston Edwards trail. It’s a great place to check out the heart of Orlando in a picturesque setting.

Tickets: Free

Visit Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

Check out the Apopka Wildlife Drive for a self-guided vehicle tour through one of Orlando’s most diverse natural ecosystems. An audio tour will help you learn about the bird population, the historic water pump, and even the wildlife you’ll see along the way, including Florida’s most famous wild resident, the alligator. The drive is available from 7 am through 5 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays.

Tickets: Free

Check Out the Live Gator Exhibit at Black Hammock Adventures

Black Hammock Adventures offers a free live gator exhibit where visitors can learn more about the fascinating creatures inhabiting the area. Located east of Orlando, this attraction hosts airboat tours, a restaurant, a bar, and seasonal festivities. Opening hours vary by season, so check out their website before you head over.

Tickets: Free

Visit a Local Park or Forest

Don’t let Orlando’s urban setting fool you. There are lots of beautiful parks and forests nearby, open for locals and visitors alike.

Shingle Creek Regional Park

Located at the headwaters of Florida’s famed everglades, Shingle Creek Regional Park offers bird watching, biking, fishing, and water activities, like paddling.

Tickets: Free

Kraft Azalea Garden

At Kraft Azalea Garden, you’ll find gorgeous lakefront views, beautiful cypress trees, and a towering banyan tree native to India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. This secluded oasis in Winter Park is open from morning to dusk.

Tickets: Free

Volunteer in the Community

For community-based activities, consider volunteering as an opportunity to give back while engaging with some of Orlando’s most important non-profit groups. Get in touch with a volunteer organization, and help the city’s efforts towards creating a better world.

Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Orlando — $

There are plenty of places to splurge in Orlando, but if you’re looking for cheap thrills, we’ve got you covered. Check out our picks for budget-friendly activities in Orlando.

Tubing at Kelly Park

The Rock Springs Kelly Park tubing adventure is a great way to cool off! With water that holds steady at 68 degrees year-round, it’s perfect for those hot Florida days. Bring your own float or rent a tube from a vendor outside the park.

Tickets: $3 per vehicle for 1-2 people; $5 per vehicle for 3-8 people; and $1 for an additional person, walk-ins, motorcycles, or bikes.

Bike Through Little Big Econ State Forest

This challenging bike loop starts at Jones East Trailhead and offers around 10.6 miles of cycling fun. Little Big Econ State Forest, located in Seminole County, includes the Econlockhatchee River, the St. John’s River, and plenty of wetlands, making it an excellent representation of Central Florida’s great outdoors.

Tickets: $2 per person, free for kids six and below.

Visit a Museum

Orlando hosts some excellent museums featuring both American art and works from around the world.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art contains an impressive array of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Visitors can explore the collection’s stunning windows, mosaics, furniture, and more. Stop by the museum Tuesday through Saturday, 9:30 am – 4 pm, or Sunday, 1 pm – 4 pm.

Tickets: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors age 60 and older, $1 for students (with valid ID), and free for children younger than 12.

Museum of Seminole County History

The Museum of Seminole County History invited visitors to learn about Seminole County’s residents throughout history. The collection includes an array of photographs, documents, and artifacts donated by the local community. Communities highlighted include Native American tribes, early settlers, and the citizens involved in Seminole County’s industrial and agricultural development.

Tickets: $3 for adults, $1 for children, students, seniors, and military members. Children under four are free.

Orange County Regional History Center

The Orange County Regional History Center, located in the heart of downtown Orlando, takes visitors on a walk through Florida’s history, from indigenous communities to achievements in aviation. On the third Thursday of every month, you can visit the museum for free from 5 pm – 8 pm Regular opening hours are Monday-Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, and Sunday Noon – 5 pm. The Lymmo bus service offers free rides from various locations in downtown Orlando. For those driving, parking is available at the Library Garage, including two hours free with a paid ticket to the History Center.

Tickets: $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (55+), students and military (with valid ID), $6 for kids 12 and under, free for kids four and under.

Mennello Museum of American Art

The Mennello Museum of American Art focuses on the artwork of Earl Cunningham, as well as many other exhibitions highlighting some of the best artists in America. The museum also offers regular events that help raise interest in and awareness of American art. Visit the museum Tuesday through Saturday 10:30 am – 4:30 pm, or Sunday 12 – 4:30 pm.

Tickets: $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (60+), $1 for students (with valid ID) and kids 6-17. Kids six and under are free. Active, retired military, veterans, and their families are free (with valid ID).

Dive into the Natural Springs

Just an hour north of downtown Orlando, the natural springs in Florida offer clear, sparkling water for kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. Check out Blue Springs State Park, and De Leon Springs State Park, and more.

Tickets: $5-6 per vehicle.

Take a Ride on the SunRail

SunRail is Florida’s commuter rail service, with more than 16 stations along the transportation line. It connects Volusia County, Osceola County, and Downtown Orlando. On SunRail, you can spot some of the best scenery Orlando has to offer, including many popular attractions.

Tickets: $1 – $9.50, for one-way and round-trip fares. 50% discount available for seniors (65+), kids 7-18 years old, and those with disabilities. Kids 6 and under ride for free with a paying adult (limit 3 per adult).

Visit Wekiva Island

Wekiva Island is one of the best places to visit Florida’s natural waterways. On the island, visitors can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes. You can also explore the island on foot and stop for a bite to eat at on-site restaurants, including Without A Paddle Cafe, The Tooting Otter Craft Beer & Wine Bar, and more.

Tickets: $2 per person. Water rentals are charged separately.

Go Manatee Watching at Blue Springs State Park

Hundreds of manatees call Blue Springs State Park home, where the crystal clear waters offer a safe haven for them to swim, socialize and care for their young. Observation bridges offer visitors a close-up look at these gentle animals.

Tickets: $6 per vehicle.

Mid-range Budget Activities in Orlando — $$

Before you shell out for premium attractions in Orlando, check out these mid-range activities that won’t break the bank.

Catch a Show at Orlando Fringe

Orlando Fringe is a community-based theater supporting alternative performers from around the world. It hosts the city’s most inclusive group of independent artists, and the shows are always full of fun, expected surprises. Check out the festival, attend events, or see what programs are happening during your visit.

Tickets: Starting at $14 per person.

Walk Through Harry P. Leu Gardens

Talk a walk through Leu Gardens and explore the stunning display of this botanical oasis. The garden hosts various events throughout the year, including outdoor movie screenings, an alphabet plant hunt, live music, and more. Leu Gardens is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.

Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for kids 4-17, and free for kids 3 and below.

Visit Orlando’s Museum of Art

Running for almost 100 years, the Orlando Museum of Art hosts 10-12 exhibitions each year, unique gallery spaces, lecture series, and studio classes. Visit the museum Tuesday through Friday, 10 am – 4 pm or
Saturday through Sunday, 12 – 4 pm.

Tickets: $20 for adults, $12 for seniors (60+), educators, and first responders, $10 for students (with valid ID), and $8 for kids 6-17. Free entry is available for kids 5 and under, active duty military, and veterans.

Check Out the Attractions at Dezerland Park

Dezerland Park provides a day of indoor fun for the entire family. Escape the heat and Florida’s frequent rain showers inside this massive activity center. Entry is free, with tickets available for specific activities. Try out:

Karting Orlando

For high-speed thrills, check out Florida’s longest go-kart track. Fly around the turns in their state-of-the-art electric karts.

Tickets: $15.95 – 22.50.

The Orlando Auto Museum

Get ready to explore an incredible collection of vintage cars from around the world. There are also theme collections, including Bond, Gatsby, and the Bat Cave.

Tickets: $21.25 for adults, $15.95 for seniors and military, $13.95 for kids 4-12, and free for kids 3 and below.

The Pinball Palace

Test your skills at over 150 pinball machines. You’ll find tons of different themes, from rock-and-roll legends KISS to Marvel and DC comic heroes.

Tickets: $10.50 for 60 minutes or $25 for an all-day pass.

Enjoy the Attractions at ICON Park

ICON Park includes 40 different activities, rides, and places to dine. Free parking is available on-site. Explore these popular attractions:

The SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Tour the aquarium’s many residents, including various species of ocean mammals, sea turtles, and jellyfish.

Tickets: $33.95 for adults and $28.95 for kids 3-12.

The Museum of Illusions

Walk into the wonderful world of illusions, full of mind-bending tricks that you and the family will love.

Tickets: $21.95 for adults, $19.95 for military and Florida residents (with valid ID), and $18.95 for kids 3-12.

The Wheel

Enjoy the sight of the city from on top of Orlando’s famous Ferris wheel. Soar 400 feet above the city for unparalleled views.

Tickets: $27.49 for adults and $22.49 when you buy online.

Orlando StarFlyer

This thrilling ride is not for the faint at heart. Visitors can book tickets for this high-flying attraction every day from 10 am to 2 am.

Tickets: $10 per person.

The Crayola Experience

At the Crayola Experience, visitors can enjoy a fun-filled day of artwork, creativity, and exploration. Kids can check out the Activity Studio, explore the Adventure Lab, or visit the Color Playground, where they can run, climb to their heart’s content. The Crayola Experience is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 am – 4 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10 am – 6 pm.

Tickets: $23.99 when purchased online for visitors 3 years old and above.

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to a wide range of friendly animals of all species. Be sure to stop by the botanical gardens and butterfly garden during your visit. The zoo is open every day from 9 am – 4 pm.

Tickets: $19.50 for adults, $15.95 for seniors (55+), and $13.75 for kids 3-12 when purchased online. Kids 2 and under are free.

Orlando Science Center

At the Orlando Science Center, kids can get hands-on with a range of stimulating activities. The Orlando Science Center offers a STEM Discovery Center, exhibits, and more. Check out their calendar for scheduled opening hours.

Tickets: $21 for adults, $19 for seniors (55+) and students (with valid ID), and $15 for kids 2-11. Kids under 2 are free.

There are plenty of things to do on a budget in Orlando, from free admission to wallet-friendly options. Explore the city’s many attractions for a visit you’ll never forget. For more ideas for your Orlando vacation, check out our guide to family activities in Orlando.