When you talk about theme parks, Orlando takes the lead. No trip to Orlando, Florida is complete without visiting some of the theme parks in this destination.
But is there anything else aside theme park that will make a trip to Orlando remarkable?
Yes! there are lots of free things to do in Orlando that will make your trip worthwhile.
What are you waiting for? If you want to have fun in Orlando, This guide of free things to do in Orlando will fill your itinerary in no time.
17 Free Things to Do in Orlando
1. Visit the Lake Eola Park
Lake Eola Park is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for free things to do in Orlando, Florida. It is a lovely and calm place right in the middle of Downtown, Orlando.
You can enjoy nice views of the city while you stroll, and you can also bike around on the 0.9-mile-long path in the park. You can also feed the swans and other birds that live in the park which many people like to do.
The park has a 43-acre lake, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a walking trail making it a great place for families to spend time together.
If you are looking for a perfect place to relax and unwind, this destination got you covered.
2. Disney Springs
One of the best things in Disney Springs is the fact that there are lots of free things to do here. It is a very popular fun spot in Orlando, Florida where you can enjoy your day without breaking the bank.
First of all, entry to Disney Springs is free. There are also free events throughout the year like concerts and festivals within this location. Talented musicians play for free at places like House of Blues.
Besides the free stuff, there are stores with all kinds of stuff, you can check them out. You can also take a ride on the Sassagoula River Ferry for a small fee without feeling like you have spent something.
Disney Springs is awesome for a fun day out that won’t empty your pockets. With free and low-cost things to do, you can make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.
3. Harry P. Leu Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens is a big beautiful garden where people come and see different special plants demarcated into different areas like a butterfly garden, a vegetable garden, and a rose garden. You can walk around, smell the roses, or sit under a nice tree. This was the plan of Mr. Harry P. Leu and his wife, Mary Jane, who gave this garden to the city in 1961.
There are over 40 plant collections in this garden. There’s also an old house from the 18th century in the garden.
Guess what, the garden is free for all on selected Mondays; you can check the website to find out when.
4. Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk is a big outdoor shopping area that everyone going to Universal Orlando Resort passes through to get to the theme parks. It is a fun place with lots of free stuff to do, making it a must-visit in Orlando.
One of the free things is the live entertainment happening all day at Universal CityWalk. There are also lots of street performers as well as live music to enjoy.
The whole place has free WiFi, so you can surf the internet and check your mail.
You can also check out the fancy boutique and restaurant in this location but getting things there is not free. Also, parking is not also free.
In all, this location is a fantastic place to spend your day with so many free things to do.
5. Orlando Farmers Market
A fantastic way to enjoy Orlando is by checking out the Orlando Farmers Market which happens every Sunday at Lake Eola Park. The market has cool stalls where local crafters sell handmade things. This market is easy to find and there’s a lot of free parking around the area. You can listen to live music, taste different foods, and enjoy the nice weather in this location.
And there’s more! The market has food trucks offering tasty meals like burgers, and sandwiches from some of the best in Orlando.
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6. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a big place that puts on different kinds of performances like theater, dance, jazz, and opera, making it a great spot for folks who love art.
If you want to find out about the free shows and fun stuff happening here, just check the center’s event calendar. They’re all about making art accessible to everyone, so they have lots of free events.
Dr. Phillips Center also teams up with the University of Central Florida for its Arts festival. This festival gives a chance to folks in the community thereby making art available to everyone.
7. West Orange Trail
West Orange Trail is a great spot for walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading in Orange County, Florida. The trail is 22 miles long, smooth, and well taken care of, so people of all ages and abilities can use it.
There are parks, playgrounds, and picnic spots, plus restaurants and shops along the way. This destination is a must-visit if you want to enjoy the natural beauty and local life in Orlando, Florida.
8. Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival
Every May each year in Orlando, the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival happens for 14 days. In the course of this event, you can watch more than 130 performances of theater, dance, music, and comedy by artists from around the world and right here in Orlando.
There are free outdoor performances and activities for everyone during the festival, which is held in several locations around Orlando.
9. Orlando Film Festival
October features the annual Orlando Film Festival. The Orlando Film Festival happens every October. It displays lots of independent films from different parts of the world and has free movie showings, workshops, and Q&A sessions with the filmmakers.
There is also an awards ceremony and a beautiful red carpet-event as well. It is free to attend the festival, however donations are accepted.
10. Orlando Public Library
The Orlando Public Library is a cool place for both visitors and people who live in Orlando. They have lots of free stuff and helpful services.
To use all the cool stuff in the library, just get a free library card. You can sign up online, and they’ll mail you the card once it’s approved.
The library has lots of free classes and events all year round. You can join computer classes, writing workshops, and book clubs. Check the library’s online calendar to see what’s coming up.
The library also has free online stuff like e-books, audiobooks, and streaming movies and TV shows. You can also use online databases for research.
In all, the Orlando Public Library is a great place for free fun and learning.
11. University of Central Florida Art Gallery
The UCF Art Gallery at the University of Central Florida is a great place for art lovers. On weekdays, it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and entrance is free.
At the gallery, you can see several artworks from local and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, photos, and mixed media on display. They also have different exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the work of UCF students and faculty, as well as visiting artists.
Parking is free at Garage F near the Addition Financial Arena, making it convenient for visitors. The UCF Art Gallery is an excellent place to spend a few hours exploring contemporary art in Orlando.
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12. Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival
Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival happens every March. More than 200 artists from all over the world come to show their art, like paintings, sculptures, and photos.
There’s also live music, food booths, and a fun area for kids. Admission to the festival is free.
13. Valencia College East Campus Gallery
Valencia College East Campus Gallery in Orlando, Florida, is a cool place that anyone can visit for free. It is located on Valencia College’s East Campus, not far from the University of Central Florida.
This gallery displays artwork by local and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The exhibitions change every few weeks, and they are more than just visually appealing; they also make you think. Past exhibitions talked about important things like fairness, nature, and different cultures.
With different exhibitions and events, the gallery gives everyone a chance to experience and enjoy something special.
14. Cady Way Trail
Orlando is well-known for its theme parks, but there are also other free activities in the city that anyone can enjoy. One interesting activity is to explore the Cady Way Trail. It’s a 7.5-mile asphalt path that’s perfect for strolling, running, and biking.
The trail is mostly shaded, which is great for hot days. As you follow the trail, you will pass through some beautiful parts of Orlando. There are also useful things along the trail, like bathrooms, water fountains, and places to have a picnic.
Cady Way Trail is a great choice for enjoying the beautiful Florida weather. So grab your bike or footwear and head out on the trail!
15. Split Oak Forest
Split Oak Forest is a big nature area near Orlando, Florida, covering 2,000 acres of prairie and scrub. It’s a home for lots of different animals, including families of sandhill cranes.
The main attraction is a live oak tree that’s over 200 years old. People love taking pictures there and enjoying the forest’s beauty.
Split Oak Forest is not only attractive, but it also provides opportunities for entertaining activities. Hike the trails, ride your bike along lovely paths, or go fishing or paddling in the lakes and ponds.
Split Oak Forest is a wonderful place to get away from the busy city of Orlando and spend time in nature. Admission to the park is free.
16. The Cornell Fine Arts Museum
The Cornell Fine Arts Museum is a small museum at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. It’s free for everyone to visit and has a cool collection of art from a long time ago to now.
The museum is approved by the American Alliance of Museums and has art from the US, Europe, and Latin America. You can see amazing old European Masterworks and a good collection of modern art. It’s a nice and cozy place where you can learn and have fun with family programs.
This museum is the only one around with a big collection of art from all over the world. It’s a must-visit for people who love art.
17. Fort Christmas Historical Park
Fort Christmas Historical Park is a cool place for people who like history. It is located in Christmas, Florida, and it portrays what life was like in the 19th century with its old stuff and guided tours.
Fort Christmas Historical Park does not charge for entry, and there are plenty of things to do there. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the area’s history while enjoying outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
There are lots of free things to do in Orlando for both visitors and locals. By doing these free activities, you can save money and have a great time in Orlando.
Make use of free resources, and plan, and you’ll have an enjoyable and affordable trip to Orlando.
Bon Voyage.
