50 Places to Visit in Orlando for Free
50 Places to Visit in Orlando for Free
Are you looking for an affordable way to explore Orlando's top attractions? Orlando is known for its world-famous theme parks, like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, top-notch entertainment and its amazing weather. But so many don’t know that there are so many fun things to do in Orlando for adults that don’t cost a thing!
Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you have to spend money constantly. Our guide covers 50 things you can do for free in the city, including visiting beautiful gardens and spending your day on some beautiful beaches near Orlando.
Places to Visit in Orlando for Free
Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, Orlando has something for everyone! Look no further than this guide to the best free places to visit in the City Beautiful, some just minutes north of downtown Orlando! From scenic nature trails to cultural museums, this list will show you how to experience the best of Orlando without breaking the bank. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to explore these free things to do in Orlando!
1 | Cocoa Beach | The restored Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier and its connecting beach are fantastic places to spend an afternoon.
Enjoy the sunshine and watch the waves roll in as you soak up some sun. Don’t forget to take a photo in front of the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier sign!
The beach is family-friendly and the perfect spot for lounging all afternoon with a cool drink.
WHERE: 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: 321-783-7549
2 | Disney’s Boardwalk | The world-famous amusement park might cost money, but you can enter Disney’s boardwalk for free!
The quarter-mile promenade is right next to the resort, and it features beautiful views of the water. There are frequent street performers who put on great shows you can enjoy.
WHERE: 2101 North Epcot Resorts Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 | WHO: 407-824-4321
3 | The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art | This Art Nouveau opened its doors in 1942, and it's still a beloved museum by locals and tourists alike.
On Fridays, admission is free for everyone from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm from November through April.
Throughout the year, there are often special Friday night events that include live classical music.
WHERE: 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: 407-645-5311
4 | Harry P Leu Gardens | On select Mondays throughout the year (usually the first of the month), you can visit the stunning Harry P Leu Gardens for free.
Built in 1858, the gardens feature an array of beautiful trees, lush foliage, and seasonal flowers.
Entry is also free for mothers on Mother’s Day and fathers on Father’s Day. Check the official website for more details on their free Monday admissions.
WHERE: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: 407-246-2620
5 | University of Central Florida Arboretum | Entry is always free at the UCF Arboretum. Visitors can enjoy unlimited access to their beautiful nature trails and preserved areas year-round from sunrise to sunset.
There are also numerous volunteer opportunities for plant lovers that want to get their hands dirty and help the planet.
WHERE: 4312 Scorpius St, Orlando, FL 32816 | WHO: 407-645-5311
6 | Popcorn Flicks in the Park | On the second Thursday of each month, you can catch a classic family-friendly movie in Orlando’s scenic Central Park.
Hosted by the Enzian Theater, this event attracts attendees of all ages and is one of the most enjoyable late-week events.
Bring a blanket, and some good food, and unwind as you enjoy a movie like 101 Dalmatians or Beauty and the Beast.
WHERE: 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: 407-645-5311
7 | Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive | Hop in your car and enjoy 11 miles of wildlife watching. See birds, Florida alligators, and other animals in their natural habitat at Lake Apopka.
The official website also has a free guided audio tour you can listen to and learn more about the fascinating ecosystem.
WHERE: 2850 Lust Rd, Apopka, FL 32703 | WHO: 386-329-4404
8 | Oakland Nature Preserve | If you travel 30 minutes west of Orlando, you’ll find 128 acres of nature filled with beautiful trees and home to incredible wildlife.
Take a paddle hike tour, or just wander a trail solo. The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. Please note that dogs and bikes are not permitted.
WHERE: 747 Machete Trl, Oakland, FL 34760 | WHO: 407-905-0054
9 | Universal CityWalk | Universal CityWalk is located next to the amusement park; you can enjoy the atmosphere as you peruse local shops.
If you aren’t headed there to eat at one of the many restaurants, you may enjoy waiting until the place is lit up at night, as it makes for some great photos.
While you’re here, check out Rising Star, an exciting karaoke bar Orlando locals love to frequent. Admission is free, and on top of regular patrons belting out their favorite hits, you can also enjoy live bands.
WHERE: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: 407-363-8000
10 | CityArts | In Downtown Orlando, you’ll find an evolving display of work from local artists at CityArts.
Inside, you’ll find seven galleries, a cafe, and workspaces. There are also frequent events that make for a great visit, like the Gallery Hop, featuring unique displays and live music.
WHERE: 39 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: 407-648-7060
11 | Kraft Azalea Gardens | Take in beautiful views at Kraft Azalea Garden, a free garden on display in Winter Park, located north of Orlando.
There are plenty of benches to relax on and paths across the 5.22-acre park for you to wander.
WHERE: 1365 Alabama Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: 407-599-3334
12 | Orlando Urban Trail | The Urban Trail spans around 3 miles from Lake Highland to Mead Garden.
Bring your bike, skates, or simply walk and enjoy the scenic journey through Loch Haven Park as you enjoy fresh air and off-road natural views.
WHERE: N Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32804
13 | Lori Wilson Park | If you can’t get enough of Orlando’s gorgeous coastline, head to Lori Wilson Park for a walk with ocean views.
You can easily access the beach, picnic pavilions, sand dunes, BBQ areas, and a boardwalk perfect for watching the sunset or fishing.
If you have a surfboard, bring it with you to catch some waves. And don’t forget a beach towel and sunscreen if you plan on sticking around!
WHERE: 1500 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
14 | The Pointe Orlando | The Pointe is an outdoor shopping center on International Drive or I-Drive to locals.
It has plenty of seating, great views, many brand-name retailers, restaurants, bars, and a 20-screen movie theater.
WHERE: 9101 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: 407-264-9950
15 | TPD Night Market | Bring the family along (including the dog!) to this weekly market featuring food trucks from local restaurants, vendors selling all sorts of trinkets and collectible items, and live musical entertainment.
The event takes place every Thursday and Friday from 6 pm to 10 pm at Lake Eola Park.
WHERE: TPD Circle 431 E. Central Blvd, Orlando FL, 32801 | WHO: 407-270-5541
16 | Mills 50 District | Spend a morning or afternoon taking photos of all the murals you can find in this colorful Orlando neighborhood.
It’s home to many one-of-a-kind restaurants that locals love, cute shops, and performance art.
WHERE: N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: 407-841-1485
17 | Third Thursday Gallery Hop |
On the third Thursday of each month, you can gallery hop among some of Orlando’s most iconic art galleries and museums with free admission. From 6 pm to 9 pm, many stores, bars, and restaurants will also open their doors to showcase work from local artists. You can wander in, admire the work, and enjoy a variety of street performances from musicians and performing artists.
WHERE: 39 S. Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: 407-648-7060
18 | Disney Springs | Disney Springs is way more than just a shopping plaza, even though it does have some fantastic Disney-themed stores.
Admire the lakeside views as you wander through the Springs’ four unique neighborhoods: Marketplace, Town Center, West Side, and The Landing.
WHERE: 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 | WHO: 407-939-5277
19 | Kissimmee Lakefront Park | Take a stroll along the beautiful, grassy path with waterfront views sweeping across the horizon. Kissimmee Lakefront Park has its own fishing pier, as well as picnic pavilions for easy outdoor dining.
WHERE: 201 Lakeview Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34741 | WHO: 407-518-2501
20 | East End Market | Food lovers, brace yourselves—Orlando’s East End Market is the culinary center of all the best artisanal vendors in the city. There are local coffee roasters, bakeries, gourmet ice creams, delicious vegan eats, and so much more.
Swing by and sample some of the delicious fare, which routinely rotates.
WHERE: 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: 321-236-3316
21 | Cocoa Beach Skate Park | This board-only skate park is located 5 miles from Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. Stop by to shred from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm Monday-Thursday, 2:30 pm to 10:00 on Friday, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm on Saturday, and 10:00 am to 9:00 pm on Sunday.
It’s a great park for skateboarders of all ages and skill levels, so don’t hesitate to show up if you’re brand new at it!
WHERE: 1450 Minutemen Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: 321-868-3252
22 | Winter Park Farmers’ Market | Browse fresh produce, plants, food stalls, and baked goods at the Winter Park Farmers Market every Saturday.
Starting at 8:00 am, you can enjoy a variety of farm-grown delicacies and homemade delights that make perfect gifts or souvenirs.
WHERE: 200 W New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO:407-599-3341
23 | Wekiwa Springs State Park | Take a refreshing dip in the half-acre swimming area at Wekiwa Springs or paddle a canoe or kayak down the river.
You can hike through peaceful trails, bird watch, and appreciate the lush, tropical fauna and trees that cover the park.
Wekiwa Springs also houses 60 campsites with water, electrical hook-ups, a picnic table, and campfire pit with a grill.
For experienced campers, the primitive camping experience takes you to Big Fork or Camp Cozy, located 1 to 3 miles off the main hiking trail.
WHERE: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712 | WHO: 407-553-4383
24 | Winter Park | Just 20 minutes northeast of Downtown Orlando lies Winter Park. This charming city boasts shopping along tree-lined avenues, two of Orlando’s best art museums, and lakeside views.
It’s easy to rent a kayak or hop on a scenic boat tour to immerse yourself in the beautiful nature surrounding this quaint city near Orlando.
Consider playing a few rounds at the historic Winter Park Golf Course, a 9-hole public course over 100 years old.
WHERE: 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: 407-645-5311
25 | Lake Eola Park | Stunning Lake Eola is one of the most popular public parks in the heart of Downtown Orlando. With a 0.9-mile sidewalk spanning its parameter, you can stroll along the bank while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
While you’re there, look for the Chinese pagoda built in 1988. It makes a beautiful spot to take a photo!
There are also swan boat rentals to peddle across the lake for $15 for 30 minutes. To book yours, head over to the park’s west end across from the Relax Grill.
WHERE: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801| WHO: 407-246-4484
26 | Orlando Farmer’s Market | Every Saturday in Lake Eola Park, the Orlando Farmer’s Market brings an exciting assortment of vendors selling seasonal produce, plants, and more.
The event has been a regular part of the community since 1987, and it shows no signs of stopping anytime soon!
Dogs are welcome at the market, so bring your pup along for the fun! Afterward, enjoy a nice stroll along the lake together.
WHERE: 20 N Eola Dr, Orlando, FL 32801
27 | The Mall at Millenia | The Mall at Millenia is any luxury brand lover’s paradise.
You will find a comprehensive collection of designer retailers like Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Yves Saint Laurent, and more. You can even schedule a complimentary styling with a personal stylist to help you find your next look.
WHERE: 4200 Conroy Rd, Orlando, FL 32839 | WHO: 407-363-3555
28 | WAVE Sculpture Garden | At the Lake Nona Wave Hotel, you can tour the outdoor sculpture gallery for free.
Notable displays include “The Charging Bull” by Arutro Di Modica, the same bull you will find on Wall Street in New York City.
Spanning 50,000 square feet, this outdoor art museum is unlike any other. Its otherworldly sculptures are displayed in mind-bending proportions, and you will love spending the afternoon exploring the grounds as you take in the larger-than-life masterpieces.
WHERE: 6714 Tavistock Lakes Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827 | WHO: 386-253-0254
29 | Loch Haven Park | This cultural park covers 45 acres of nature and serves as its community’s premiere cultural arts center. It’s home to the Orlando Science Center, Ballet, Shakespeare Theater, the Mennello Museum of American Art, and more.
Whether you want to stop by and admire some of the works or simply enjoy the fresh air, it’s sure to be a day well spent.
WHERE: 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803
30 | Vero Beach Boardwalk | The boardwalk overlooking Vero Beach is the best place to enjoy the sun before settling into the sand or going for a swim.
If you’re an early bird, this is a great spot to go for a stroll as you watch the sunrise.
WHERE: Vero Beach, FL 32960
31 | Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier | Daytona Beach rests along the Atlantic Coast and is approximately an hour drive from Downtown Orlando.
The historic boardwalk was first constructed in the 1920s. Today, it still stands as one of the most visited and beloved spots along the beach.
Enjoy an array of small shops, boutiques, restaurants, and even a Ferris Wheel.
WHERE: 12 South Ocean Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32118 | WHO: 386-253-0254
32 | West Orange Trail | The West Orange Trail is the perfect place for a long bike ride. It stretches 22 miles from Downtown Oakland through Winter Garden and Apopka.
There are plenty of spots with wonderful nature views, and it’s a great destination if you love birdwatching.
Bikers, skaters, and joggers all frequent the trail, and it’s a popular spot among residents and tourists alike.
WHERE: 501 Crown Point Cross RD Winter Garden, FL 34787 | WHO: 407-533-4732
33 | Lakeridge Winery | Lakeridge Winery offers free tours and tastes seven days a week. Monday - Saturday, events start at 10:00 am and end at 5:00 pm. On Sunday, they begin an hour later.
In addition to its tastings and tours, the winery also frequently hosts food festivals and has live music for you to enjoy as you savor the flavors of their award-winning wines.
WHERE: 19239 US Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34715 | WHO: 352-394-8627
34 | Hontoon Island State Park | Head to Hontoon Island State Park along St. John’s River and experience the beauty of thousands of years of history. The island is accessible by a private boat or the park ferry, so getting there is its own adventure.
Hiking on the secluded island is a peaceful, restorative experience. You can also bring a canoe or kayak and enjoy paddling along the river at your own pace. Be sure to read the website for travel advisories and safety tips.
WHERE: 2309 River Ridge Rd, DeLand, FL 32720 | WHO: 386-736-5309
35 | Downtown Orlando | This bustling district is the best place to enjoy the atmosphere of Orlando.
DTO is the perfect place to spend a day wandering around and letting the city take you where it may. You’ll have no shortage of shops, restaurants, and attractions to pique your interest.
Lake Eola is the heart of this district, and the park surrounding it makes a great starting point for your self-guided walking tour.
WHERE: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: 407-246-4484
36 | ICON Park | ICON Park is an open-air entertainment venue that spans 20 acres on International Drive.
While access to the park is free, there are also many activities you can choose to pay for, like riding the 400-foot Observation Wheel to enjoy a breathtaking view of Orlando.
If you’re hungry, there are many food stalls and restaurants to grab a bite to eat. And if you’re looking for arcades in Orlando, you’ll love In the Game at the park.
WHERE: 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: 407-601-7907
37 | Blue Spring State Park | One word: manatees. These gentle sea cows are right at home in the warm waters of Blue Spring, and they’re easy to spot year-round.
The park is 30 miles from Orlando and features incredible outdoor adventures from scuba diving to canoeing.
If you prefer to stay on land, the scenic hiking trails and grassy spots make ideal picnic setups.
WHERE: 2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763 | WHO: 386-775-3663
38 | Chip n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-long | You don’t have to visit the Disney theme parks to embrace the magic!
Celebrate warm weather and longer nights with everyone’s favorite chipmunks! Free sing-a-longs and movie nights are hosted at Fort Wilderness under the stars each night.
You can even bring your own supplies and make s’mores if you want!
WHERE: 4510 Fort Wilderness Trl, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 | WHO: 407-939-1936
39 | Celebration Town Center | Disney founded Celebration Town, but today, it’s a residential community with nearly 10,000 residents and counting.
The town center is a great place to visit, with plenty of charming shops to browse. There are also many seasonal events, like a spring festival and “snow” event in the winter.
The beautiful town is worth visiting, even if it’s simply to take in the atmosphere and photograph its fairy-tale-like architecture. You’ll almost feel like you’ve stepped into a Disney movie yourself!
WHERE: 610 Sycamore St, Suite 310, Celebration, FL 34747 | WHO: 407-566-4007
40 | Spook Hill | Every city has its legends, and Spook Hill’s history is something every Orlando local knows well.
Head to the road, park your car at the neutral line, then wait. Soon, you’ll notice the car seems to be moving backward, uphill.
It’s all an optical illusion caused by gravity, but it’s been delighting thousands of visitors yearly since the 1950s.
WHERE: 600 N Wales Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33853 | WHO: 863-676-3445
41 | Gaylord Palms Resort | You don’t have to be a guest at Gaylord Palms to enjoy its marvelous resort. The atrium features over 500,000 blooming plants and wandering through its 4.5-acre layout is a great way to spend an afternoon.
Inside, you’ll find a 161,000-gallon lagoon filled with fish. Perched above it is the S.S. Gaylord, a boat that houses its own restaurant called MOOR.
The Everglades portion of the atrium features towering trees and lush flora. This portion is even home to baby alligators and snakes in glass enclosures.
WHERE: 6000 W Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746 | WHO: 407-586-0000
42 | Florida Mall | The Florida Mall makes the perfect hangout spot for a low-key way to spend the day in Orlando.
The mall has over 250 stores placed across 1.8 million square feet. Each year, it attracts over 20 million shoppers.
It’s home to all the major brands you know and love, like Macy’s, Sears, H&M, and Zara.
While you’re there, don’t miss the Crayola Experience! This family-friendly attraction is packed to the brim with fun activities and plenty of products that will inspire your creativity!
WHERE: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809 | WHO: 407-851-7234
43 | Big Tree Park | Relax under the shade of the magnificent cypress trees in Big Tree Park. From sunrise to sunset, it’s open to the public. It was once home to one of the world’s oldest trees, a 3,500-year-old cypress called The Senator, but it was lost to fire in 2012.
The legacy lives on today with Lady Liberty, which is over 2,000 years old. You can find her in Big Tree Park, where she stands over 40 feet tall.
WHERE: 930 N Thornton Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: 407-246-2283
44 | Walt Disney World Water Taxi | Enjoy a free lake tour on one of Walt Disney World’s water taxis! You can catch these from popular spots around all the Disney theme parks for free, except for Animal Kingdom.
The water taxis can take you across Lake Hollywood, Bay Lake, Crescent Lake, and the Seven Seas Lagoon.
On board, you can enjoy beautiful views of the water as you enjoy the pleasant breeze. Each ride lasts between 15 to 30 minutes.
WHERE: Multiple locations, including Disney Springs and Fort Wilderness Camp
45 | Capehart Park | Capehart is a tranquil, tranquil stretch of land located in a residential neighborhood.
In addition to plenty of green space, there is a fitness path to work out on if you’re looking to break a sweat.
Families with little ones can enjoy a summer splash pad and toddler-friendly playground that features small picnic tables perfect for young children.
The park is dog-friendly, so bring your pooch along and enjoy a wonderful day in the sunshine.
WHERE: 715 Capehart Dr, Orlando, FL 32822 | WHO: 407-254-9160
46 | Dinky Dock Park | Boaters and water sports enthusiasts flock to this 1.56-acre park year-round.
It offers easy access to Lake Virginia via a small boat pier, so it's a great spot whether you want to swim, canoe, or fish.
Animals are allowed, but only for transfer from the dock into a boat. They must remain leashed at all times on the property.
Currently, the beach is closed due to high bacteria levels. Please check the official website for updates.
WHERE: 410 Ollie Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: 407-599-3599
47 | Rollins Museum of Art | Admission to the Rollins Museum of Art in Winter Park is always free.
The teaching museum is always hosting free tours and activity programs for all ages; there are also many events hosted in English and Spanish to make art accessible to everyone.
The museum is closed on Mondays, but it’s open from 10:00 am to 7 pm on Tuesdays, and 10:00 am to 4 pm on Wednesdays. On the weekends, you can visit between noon and 5:00 pm.
WHERE: 1000 Holt Ave Box 2765, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: 407-646-2526
48 | Fort Christmas Historical Park | Fort Christmas is a historical park with free admission year-round. You can visit to see a replica of the style of fort common during the Second Seminole Indian War.
There are also eight pioneer building replicas to explore, complete with old-time farming equipment.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the large pavilions on the property. Each one has its own BBQ setup for easy grilling.
Children will love exploring the playground and playing on the jungle gym. If you’re a sports fan, the park includes a free tennis court, basketball court, and baseball field.
WHERE: 1300 N Fort Christmas Rd, Christmas, FL 32709 | WHO: 407-254-9310
49 | Disney Skyliner | The Skyliner Gondolas are one of the most thrilling experiences Disney offers, and they’re entirely free!
Zip along in a themed gondola complete with charming character decor from Disney’s Hollywood Studios or the International Gateway at EPCOT to one of the major resorts. From there, you can enjoy attractions nearby, like Disney Springs or the Disney Boardwalk.
WHERE: Disney’s Riviera Resort | Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort | Disney’s Pop Century Resort | Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
50 | United States Tennis Association Campus | The USTA National Campus is a tennis haven. You can play on one of over 100 courts available, and it’s a welcome spot for every player, no matter their age or experience level.
If you want to try a new sport, why not try your hand at pickleball or paddle?
Situated along Lake Nona, the beautiful campus is a wonderful way to embrace nature and stay active in the outdoors.
If you’re completely new to playing, don’t worry about figuring it all out on your own; book a free 30-minute lesson with a coach!
WHERE: 10000 USTA Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827 | WHO: (407) 675-2500
Use Our Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!
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