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Conservation Florida and Freehand Goods are teaming up with D Ranch Preserve for their first ever Trick or Trails event. Enjoy a not-so-scary evening exploring the winding trails of D Ranch Preserve by foot or on a hayride. Hay rides will be $5 & can be purchased at the event with cash or a donation...
Join the excitement at Pumpkins for O'Possums, one of the year's most anticipated events where you can support local wildlife while picking out high-quality, handpicked pumpkins. Back To Nature Wildlife Refuge will bring ambassador animals All pumpkin sales directly support the refuge's mission to rehabilitate and care for orphaned and injured wildlife, with a percentage...
Join the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey for a daytime Halloween celebration featuring a trick-or-treat candy trail ("trick or tweet"), a spooky bubble dance party, kid-friendly story time, scavenger hunt, raptor meet-and-greets, and pumpkin enrichment for the resident birds. Read more about Hawks and Haunts here. When: October 31, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. -...
Celebrate fall at Black Hammock Bee Farms while learning more about honeybees and their unique importance to our Florida ecology. Read more about Fall Festival at Black Hammock Bee Farms here. Event Details Where: Black Hammock Bee Farms, 2385 Howard Ave., Oviedo When: Saturday, October 17, 2026 Admission: Free admission; activities such as the planting...
Halloween at Boo Spring is two special nights of Halloween activities at Blue Spring State Park, and also a fundraiser to support projects, programs, and initiatives at Blue Spring and Hontoon Island State Parks. Halloween fun and helping a local natural gem! Boo Spring activities include a haunted trail, moonlit hikes, concessions for sale, and...
America's Best Idea - our national parks - is even better when admission is free! Mark your calendar for free days at U.S. National Parks throughout Florida and beyond. On select dates, FREE entrance is available to 133 National Parks across the country (including five in Florida) that normally charge a fee. A few of...
Join the City of Mount Dora for a day of pollinator appreciation. The Great Florida Pollinator Census is an annual citizen scientist event aimed at counting and learning more about the pollinators around us. The Nunan Butterfly Garden at the W.T. Bland Library in Mount Dora is offering a free event to help you count...
By: Jacqueline Bodnar, blogger at Volusia County Moms If you want to head over to Volusia County you will find there are plenty of things you can do that won't break the bank. Check out the many free and cheap things to do in Daytona Beach and surrounding areas. Daytona Beach, New Smyrna, and Ormond...
If it's too hot or rainy to play outside, there are plenty of chill places to explore in Orlando. We've created a list of fun indoor places for kids to play in Orlando. From museums to indoor trampoline parks, Orlando has it all! Here are the best indoor places to play when it's raining or...
There's always something exciting happening in Orlando, and if you know the right place to look, you can partake in a variety of events and activities that are easy on the budget. Here are some of the ongoing events you can enjoy in Orlando that are either FREE or relatively inexpensive. To keep up with...
The Central Florida Springs, Florida's natural cooling system, is one of those must-see destinations. With water temperatures in the low 70s year-round, a dip in the springs located near Orlando is incredibly refreshing. A day at the springs is also cheap with entry starting at $2 for a Florida State Park. NATURAL SPRINGS NEAR ORLANDO...
No matter what the temperature is in Florida, you can always find a place to lace up skates and hit the ice. Orlando ice skating rinks are open year-round and during the holiday season. Bundle up for a fun and inexpensive activity. Ice skating with skate rentals costs around $10 to $17 per person. To...
Orlando has amazing waterparks, splash pads, and refreshing springs, but sometimes you just need to put your toes in the sand at the beach. We aren't located directly on the coast, but we sure are close to beautiful beaches! In just 1-2 hours you can reach these top 5 beaches closest to Orlando. TOP 5...
During cold snaps, manatees migrate to huddle up in the warmer waters of Central Florida Springs. That's why the winter season in Orlando is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of Florida manatees at Blue Spring State Park. Florida manatees retreat to the designated refuge each year because of the consistent water temperature of 72...
The new year is the perfect time to explore all the free and budget-friendly activities Central Florida and Orlando have to offer. Whether you're a local or visiting on vacation, here's a list of top picks of things to do in January divided by category. Is there a free or cheap event we should know...
It's a beautiful time to get outside and enjoy Central Florida's public art with a walking tour. However, you don't have to commit to a led tour to get an amazing experience. There are lots of options for DIY and self-led walking tours around Central Florida that you can personalize to your needs-that's something sure...
There are many beautiful outdoor places to explore in Orlando and some of the best adventures are either free or cheap. Orlando has so many unique parks and things to do near downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods. You can see the tall cypress trees at Kraft Azalea Gardens, ride the swan boats at Oviedo on...
Blueberries have grown to become an important crop to farmers in Central Florida - and we can all reap the sweet rewards at U-Pick Farms near Orlando. Here's where you can pick your own blueberries near Orlando. Support your Orlando farmers and check each location for details on how to get fresh, local produce. Fresh...
April in Central Florida should be filled with adventures, events, nature, and experiences that take advantage of the beautiful spring weather. From celebrating Earth Day to picking delicious blueberries, April has something for everyone. Here is our curated list of our favorite things to do in April in Central Florida. 36th Annual Spring Fiesta in...
With crystal clear springs, pristine forests, beautiful parks, and lovely beaches, Central Florida nature gives us a lot to be thankful for this Earth Day. April 22, 2025 is Earth Day, a time to celebrate, enhance, enjoy, and protect what the Earth gives us. Here are our favorite events for celebrating Earth Day around Orlando. ...
When the weather is beautiful in Orlando, there is nothing cheaper or more relaxing than a scenic walk. We have plenty of nice paths to stroll at local parks, county trails and picturesque gardens. Most of the walking paths are completely free, unless otherwise noted. Here is your guide to where to walk in Orlando....
March is a time of warming weather in Central Florida as we slide into spring, which makes it a perfect time to take advantage of local free and cheap events. We have all the ideas you need to make the most of this month including spring break ideas, St. Patrick's Day events, The Central Florida...
We absolutely adore Orlando in February, as this month offers a wide array of entertainment options both indoors and outdoors. The mild weather with plenty of sunshine makes it an ideal time to discover the beautiful attractions throughout Central Florida. During this time, you can enjoy scenic parks, vibrant festivals, and a range of family-friendly...
Learn about how the City of Orlando's Water Reclamation Division cares for our water and the environment at one of the most unique outdoor recreation experiences in Florida. The Orlando Wetlands is a man-made wetland designed to provide advanced treatment for reclaimed water from the City of Orlando and other local cities. The park is...
Seeing row after row of blooming sunflowers is not something you'd expect in Central Florid. But, beyond the beaten path of Orlando, there are thriving family farms that harvest and grow a variety of crops - including beautiful sunflower fields. Sunflower season in Orlando happens twice a year at Florida farms, usually during fall and...
Apply now for a voucher to get free swimming lessons for kids ages 4 and younger. Central Florida has many opportunities to play and splash in the water. From pools to springs and beaches, Florida families are always close to a place to swim. However, this means we all must be prepared for water safety...
It only takes a short trip from Orlando to discover native Florida wildlife in their natural habitat during a safe and relaxing car ride at the Blackpoint Wildlife Drive in Merritt Island. It is part of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which includes trails and boat ramps. The visitors' center offers exhibits, movies, programs...
Active-duty military personnel and their dependents can receive an America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Annual Pass for FREE (an $80 value). The pass grants them access to more than 2,000 national parks, wildlife refuges and other public lands. To keep up with latest news on deals, discounts and free events in Central...
Orlando isn't located on the coast, but fortunately we live close enough to enjoy a day trip or weekend jaunt to some of Florida's best beaches. No matter where you want to put your toes into the sand, on the Atlantic Ocean or along the Gulf Coast, we've come up with a guide to the...
We live in the Sunshine State for good reason - to go outside more than in! Make a plan to explore Central Florida's beautiful surroundings as a couple with outdoor date ideas in Orlando. Sure, a romantic dinner at a fancy restaurant is memorable..but, you can get the equivalent (or more!) of endorphins flowing by...
It's the perfect time to explore Central Florida with your best friend. Plan your next FURfriend outing with these top 10 dog-friendly spots in Orlando. From restaurants to outdoor parks, pick your favorite PAWTY place in and around Central Florida for a memorable day with your dog with this list of the best locations to...
Cool pools at Orlando resorts are the perfect way to enjoy a sunny day by making a splash or lounging in luxury. Some of Orlando's unique pools include retro-themed Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort and the luxe poolside amenities at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Lazy rivers, waterfalls, real sand beaches, zero-entry and adults-only pools are...
By Sally Perkins Get the endorphins rushing and the adrenaline going with an adventurous hike near Orlando. Believe it or not, you can find exciting trails in Central Florida that provide beautiful views, wildlife, and some challenging treks. Looking for a date idea that doesn't cost a dime? Hiking is perfect for avoiding those uncomfortable silences....
Take your family out to a ballgame for peanuts, Cracker Jacks and spring training in Central Florida. Tickets start as low as $15 for outfield seats for the Houston Astros or Atlanta Braves. Both teams play in the Kissimmee area. The bats are swinging away through the end of March. If you are up for a short road...
With so many attractions for humans in Orlando, it's only fair that dogs have their own playgrounds too. Orlando offers many dog-friendly parks where your pooches can roam leash-free, play ball, sniff around and meet furry friends. Central Florida Dog Parks Barber Park Dog Park: 3701 Gatlin Avenue, Orlando; (407) 249-6102 Barnett Park Dog Park:...
Sitting by the air conditioner isn't the only way to cool off in Central Florida. Here are a few places to offering cheap admission this summer. Central Florida Springs This summer, take advantage of Florida's natural cooling system - the local Central Florida springs. With water temperatures in the low 70s, a dip in the springs...
Play volleyball, corn toss, enjoy live music and a take dip in the cool waters of the Wekiva River for free at Wekiva Island. This eco-recreation destination has an old Florida feel, a bar that serves beer and wine, riverside cabanas and a dog-friendly policy. Wekiva Island is the perfect spot to relax on a summer...
Take your family out to a ballgame for peanuts, Cracker Jacks and Spring Training in Central Florida. The Houston Astros are playing in Kissimmee. Bats will start swinging March 3rd and you can find tickets for as low as $15 in the outfield. Houston Astros 631 Heritage Park Way Kissimmee, FL 34744 Home Spring Training...
Take your family out to a ballgame for peanuts, Cracker Jacks and Spring Training in Central Florida. The Atlanta Braves are playing in Lake Buena Vista. Bats will start swinging March 3rd and you can find tickets for as low as $15 in the general admission lawn. Atlanta Braves 700 Victory Way Lake Buena Vista,...