When you think of what to do in Orlando, the first thing that usually comes to mind are theme parks! While we love going to the theme parks, the cost starts to add up quite quickly. Here at Wonder Vacation Homes, we love to help you save while on your Orlando vacation. Check out our top 10 recommendations for free and cheap things to do in Orlando!
Walk Around Disney Springs
Want some Disney magic without having to pay for a theme park ticket? Spend some time walking around Disney Springs, the newly reimagined entertainment district. Parking is free, and there’s certainly no shortage of fun to be had! Window shop at some amazing stores, enjoy cutting-edge entertainment and dine at unique restaurants while still feeling the Disney magic.
Visit Old Town Kissimmee
Kissimmee’s Old Town is a great retro walking district with fun for the whole family! Enjoy a classic car cruise every Saturday night while enjoying the free entertainment. There are also a lot of great shops and attractions, which can be a nice break from the larger theme parks.
Venture to Lake Eola
Located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, escape the tourist-centric destinations and live like a local at Lake Eola. This 43-acre park is perfect for a beautiful Florida day, where you can feed the swans, picnic by the lake or rent a paddle boat. See the iconic Orlando skyline and take in all of the incredible views.
Stroll through Leu Gardens
One of Orlando’s most beautiful gardens, the Harry P. Leu Gardens are a great destination for the whole family. Walk through the perfectly landscaped gardens or spend time learning at the Leu House Museum. Entrance to the gardens is only $3 for children and $10 for adults.
Fun at the Farmers Market
Support local artists and restaurants at one of the Orlando farmers markets. When you visit Lake Eola on a Sunday morning, be sure to stop by the farmers market, or head up to Winter Park on a Saturday! This is a great local activity, and an amazing way to feel like a local while on vacation!
Spook Hill
Want to experience a unique spooky attraction that mystifies both locals and tourists alike? Head down to Spook Hill, near Lake Wales for a ghostly adventure. Drive to Spook Hill, park your car in neutral, and certainly be amazed as it appears to roll uphill without any form of momentum. Is the hill haunted or is it an optical illusion? Spooooooky!
Spend a Day at Celebration
Visit the Disney-made town of Celebration! Stroll around the gorgeous natural Florida walking trails, marvel at the beautiful homes and experience the magic of Disney living. Depending on what time of year you visit, you can see a one-of-a-kind light display on Jeater Bend or snow fall on the streets! Spending a day exploring Celebration is one of the best free and cheap things to do in Orlando!
Take a Trip to the Beach
Orlando’s central location is great for venturing to either coast for the beaches! Cocoa beach is a great option for families with tons of parking, picnic tables and miles of beautiful beach to enjoy. Drive to the Gulf-side beaches to experience the gorgeous Clearwater beach and spend a fun day in a beach town.
Hang out at I-Drive 360
Visit International Drive for an endless amount of attractions, entertainment and fun! The brand new entertainment complex called I-Drive 360 is home to the iconic 400-foot Orlando Eye observation wheel, Madame Tussaud’s wax museum, Sealife Aquarium and more. While you do have to pay for entry to the attractions, parking and the complex is free to enter.
Universal CityWalk
CityWalk, located at Universal Studios Orlando, is a fun entertainment district. Parking is free after 6 pm, and there is no shortage of fun to be had at CityWalk! Sing your heart out at Rising Star Karaoke or enjoy a delicious Margarita straight from Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. See a movie or play a round of mini-golf!
There’s an endless amount of fun to be had in Orlando! These were a few of our favorite free and cheap things to do in Orlando. You can always call our reservations team to chat about your upcoming trip to Orlando and we’ll be happy to help!
