14 Free Things to Do in Orlando Florida

While you’re in Orlando be sure to step outside the theme parks and learn about the city for free. From outdoor, recreational or cultural events, there is something for everyone traveling in a family or group.

Here are some activities that won’t cost a fortune while you stay in Orlando.

1. Black Hammock Adventures

Enjoy an alligator show and bird exhibits at Black Hammock Adventures at Lake Jessup. They also provide free music on Fridays and Saturdays.

2. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens …Explore this amazing 50-acre botanical oasis minutes from Downtown Orlando. It is Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m and it’s located in Lake Maitland in Winter Park….Best of all..it is FREE! 

3. University of Central Florida’s Arboretum

University of Central Florida’s Arboretum is home to more than 600 plant species on an 80-acre property. Visitors can walk through a self-guided tour to view many native plant species.

4. Winter Park Farmer’s Market

The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is held at the old train depot, at 200 West New England Avenue, that has been restored into an historical landmark that hosts this NUMBER ONE produce and plant market in Central Florida. It is held from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday and is one of the most popular sites. Local vendors and farmers sell their homemade and homegrown specialties, including fruits, vegetables, organic produce and more.

5. Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola is located in the heart of Downtown Orlando. The sidewalk that circles the lake is almost 1 mile and it’s a favorite of the avid walkers or runners. Lake Eola is basically an 80-foot sink hole and among other activities available visitors can walk at the park, enjoy a concert or play at the amphitheater, view the Orlando skyline or, on Sundays, visit the farmers market..

6. Fort Christmas Historical Park

A replica for the original Fort Christmas Historical Park, built in 1837 during the Seminole Indian War, anchors the 25-acre park that also features a traditional Florida “Cracker” house, a school house and lunchroom, seven pioneer homes, a sugar cane mill and historical farming equipment.

7. Enzian Theater / Eden Bar

Enzian Theater/ Eden Bar is a nonprofit arthouse movie theater located in Maitland, Florida. .

8. Ocala National Forest

Encompassing more than 600 square miles in North Central Florida, Ocala National Forest is bursting with adventure.

Hike the Florida Trail, camp in the deep woods, spend a lazy day at a cool, bubbling spring, paddle a spring run, a lake or a river.

9. A World of Orchids

The World of Orchids is a conservatory containing natural exhibits with flowers from Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Australia, and the South and Central Americas.

10. Wekiwa Springs State Park

The park offers a variety of outdoor activities and a natural history museum. Admission is FREE in September if you bring a book, library card or library book.

11. Kelly Park, Rock Springs

These parks have a free-flowing natural spring, hiking and camping. Children under 5 are free and there’s a total charge of $5-6 per car containing up to eight people.

12. Popcorn Flicks in Central Park

Our Popcorn Flicks in the Park series features classic films for the whole family. These films are usually held on the second Thursday of each month in Winter Park’s beautiful Central Park and they are FREE and open to the public.

13. Old Town

At Old Town you can experience shopping, dining and entertainment that breaks from the typical theme park experiences found in Orlando.

Old Town, located on 192 in Kissimmee just minutes from Disney, Universal, Sea World and International Drive is a unique walking district that transports visitors back in time. Teh cars show on Saturday is free!

14. Orlando Premium Outlets now offering free hotel shuttle

With the newly opened Disney Springs Town Square enticing shopping-minded visitors to stay on Walt Disney World property, the Orlando Premium Outlets on Vineland Ave and International Drive are striking back with a new free hotel shuttle service.