Nov 272012
You don’t need to save up or put toys on layaway to create a fun weekend with the family. Here’s our list of the top free things to do with the kids in Orlando.
- Mennello Museum: Every second Sunday of the month, Mennello Museum offers free admission to the galleries, craft stations and mini-tours for kids from noon to 2:30 p.m.
- Leu Gardens: On the first Monday of the month, Leu Gardens offers free entry and a special story time event for little ones starting at 10 a.m. After story time, stroll through the lush gardens or bring a blanket to relax in the shade while the kids play.
- Home Depot: On the first Saturday of the month, from 9 a.m. to noon, Home Depot offers free Kids Workshops. Your kids will leave with their craft, an orange kid’s workshop apron, a commemorative pin and a certificate of achievement.
- Lowe’s: Twice a month, Lowe’s offers free Kids Clinics. You will need to RSVP to guarantee that your child will receive a kit, but walk-ups are allowed if extras are available. The Kids Clinics start at 10 a.m. Participants get their craft, an apron, goggles and a patch.
- Bass Pro Shops: Bass Pro Shops offers a mix of free crafts and workshops throughout the year.
- Lego Stores: On the first Tuesday of the month, the Lego Store in Downtown Disney Marketplace offers a free Mini-Model Build. There’s a limit of one free mini-model set per child while supplies last, and the event is open to children ages 6-14.
- Michaels: Each month, Michaels offers a variety of free and cheap crafts for kids. The month’s crafts often share a theme, and you’ll find creations that are perfect for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day gifts, spring decorations, and more. Some events are free, and others are free with purchase.
- Lakeshore Learning Store: From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday mornings, Lakeshore Learning offers free crafts for kids. Most of the activities are very simple to complete, making them perfect for preschoolers.
- Free Movies: Round up the crew for a cozy evening of family-friendly flicks under the stars. There are many free movie options in Orlando throughout the year.
- Pottery Barn: Every Tuesday at 11 a.m., kids can enjoy a free story time at Pottery Barn Kids.
- Free Museum Program: Take the kids on a cultural journey for free with the Museums On Us program. Just show your Bank of America or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card the first weekend of every month and you’ll get free admission to Orlando Museum of Art, Mennello Museum of American Art and Orange County Regional History Center.
- Library: The Orange County Library System hosts free story time for various age groups from babies to 5 years old. The library also schedules fun events and interactive presentations like animal appearances by SeaWorld. Remind your kids why the library is cool (if “cool” is still a cool word). Get your card today.
