There’s so much to do in the City Beautiful — and plenty of ways to experience it without breaking the bank.
If you’re going out, it’s wise to phone first. Events are subject to change at any time. Some events listed require you to make a reservation or purchase tickets in advance.
![Things to do Orlando: image of waterfront hangout spot, Wekiva Island, in Longwood Florida.](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-05-24-at-6.06.04-PM.png?resize=600%2C400&ssl=1)
Visit Wekiva Island in Longwood this week for $5 per person.
We’d love your input if you have anything to add to this list. Here are our top picks for free and cheap things to do in Orlando.
To keep up with the latest news on deals, discounts, and free events in Central Florida, sign up for the Orlando on the Cheap newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Share your events with us: add to our calendar of events.
You might also be interested in:
- Cheap things to do with kids in Orlando
- Romantic dates under $30 in Orlando
- Where to go ice skating near Orlando
- 10 outdoor date nights under $20
- Top 10 dog-friendly spots in Orlando
- Best free and cheap outdoor adventures in Orlando
- Walt Disney World Florida Resident deals
FREE & CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO
Note: Sometimes, things change after we post an event. It’s always a good idea to check directly with venues and event organizers to confirm before you go.
Summer Fun at Crayola Experience Orlando
Summer Month of July; Open Daily 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Crayola Experience Orlando
Grab your creative skills and imagination and let’s head over to Crayola Experience Orlando for some Summer Fun starting at 10 a.m. daily with ticket prices online for $26.99 (this is a $3 discount from ticket prices at the door).
![](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/bands-brews-BBQ.jpg?resize=600%2C338&ssl=1)
Photo: SeaWorld Orlando
Bands, Brews, and BBQ
Now through August 25, Saturdays and Sundays
SeaWorld Orlando
The Savory tastes and tunes are back at SeaWorld Orlando for a limited time only and included in your SeaWorld daily admission tickets. Gran a sampling lanyard and enjoy the mouthwatering tastes of BBQ and a variety of smoked and grilled favorites.
![](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Christmas-in-July-The-Florida-Mall.jpg?resize=600%2C400&ssl=1)
Photo: The Florida Mall
Christmas in July at the Florida Mall
Now through the end of July
Santa Sightings: Saturdays 12-4pm Sundays 1-5pm
The Florida Mall
It’s Christmas in July at the Florida Mall and you’re invited to see Santa, enjoy photo prop stations, enter giveaways with a ton of prizes, and more! Plus, an Ice Skating rink at the end of the month on the 27th.
July 23 – 31
Saturday July 27, 1 p.m. It’s Tacos and Tequilas kind of night and you’re invited for beer, tequila, live entertainment and more! $55 starts at 1 p.m. VIP includes an hour early admission.
The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition
July 26-28
The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition at the Orlando Family Stage. Tickets start at $16. 1001 E Princeton St., Orlando.
Blue Bamboo Summer Concert Series
Now through August 25
Casselberry Arts Center, 137 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry, Fl 32707.
Tickets range from $20 to $35.
Summer of the Fairies
Now through August 25
Harry P. Leu Gardens
The fairies have arrived at the gardens! Discover 20 hidden doors throughout the beautiful oasis. And on select dates, you can enjoy it all in the evening with special activities, dinner options, and more.
Summer Live Music Series
Saturday & Sunday through August 4, 4pm – midnight
ICON Park
FREE live performances on The Lawn underneath the Orlando Eye followed by DJ entertainment from 8pm to midnight. Plus, there will be special performances to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Live music at Judson’s Live
Select nights
Dr. Phillips Center
Check out a live and intimate show on the cheap at Judson’s Live. Tickets vary in price by performance (starting at $15).
![](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Daytona-Beach-Oceanfront-Bandshell-2-City-of-Daytona-Beach.jpg?resize=600%2C401&ssl=1)
Photo: City of Daytona Beach
FREE Summer Concert Series
Every Friday through August 30
Daytona Beach Bandshell
FREE live tribute concerts at the beach throughout the summer season.
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 day. Just make sure you arrive early—it usually fills to capacity around noon on Saturdays and Sundays. Entry fee per person is $5.
Southern Hill Summer
Select days
Southern Hill Farms, Clermont
The crops are out of season, but there is still fun at the farm this summer. Entry to the farm is free. A wristband for all of the activities in the Kid Zone and for the waterslides is $22.
![](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AquaGlow.jpg?resize=600%2C400&ssl=1)
Photo: SeaWorld Orlando
AquaGlow at Aquatica
Now through August 10
Aquatica
Enjoy the waterpark at night during the brand-new, after-hours event. Tickets are $49.99.
The Science of Guinness World Records
Now open at the Orlando Science Center
The newest exhibit features the most extraordinary record holders and uncovers the science behind meeting those goals.
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
Float through the canals and lush landscape of Winter Park’s waterways on a tranquil Scenic Boat Tour. The hour-long tour is $20 for adults.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Lake Apopka: 2850 Lust Road entrance
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is an 11-mile drive with a chance to view native animals in their natural habitat including 174 bird species. It’s FREE and you can enjoy this tour inside your car in the AC with their audio tour online.
Fridays on the Plaza
Fridays, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Centennial Plaza Gazebo, Downtown Winter Garden
FREE evening of live music on the plaza.
![Orlando events: image of people listening to an outdoor concert at Lakeridge Winery](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Screen-Shot-2019-01-08-at-1.42.18-PM.png?resize=600%2C337&ssl=1)
Free live music every Saturday & Sunday at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont, Florida.
Weekends at the Winery
Saturday and Sundays, Noon to 4 p.m.
Lakeridge Winery, Clermont
FREE. Head to Central Florida winery’s huge vineyard green each weekend for delicious food, live entertainment, complimentary wine tastings/tours, and Lakeridge wines by the glass at the outdoor bar.
Check out free museum days in Orlando.
Orlando Wetlands Park
Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Orlando Wetlands in Christmas, FL
FREE guided tram tours are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Check out FREE museum days in Orlando.
![](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Lake-Mary-Farmers-Market.jpg?resize=600%2C450&ssl=1)
Lake Mary Farmers’ Market.
MORE ORLANDO EVENTS & THINGS TO DO
Orlando Farmers Market
Sundays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Lake Eola, downtown Orlando
FREE to stroll through the park and shop a variety of vendors.
Lake Mary Farmers Market
Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Central Park, Lake Mary
FREE to stroll through and shop a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, plants, honey, and locally made goods.
Apopka Saturday Sounds
Select Saturdays, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Apopka Amphitheater
FREE live concerts featuring various acts.
Winter Park Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Central Park, Winter Park
FREE to stroll through the many vendors selling produce, honey, fresh seafood, plants, homemade goods, caterpillars, and more!
Lake Nona Farmers Market
Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Lake Nona Town Center
FREE. Bring the whole family to shop fresh produce, local vendors, and have some all-around family fun!
Maitland Farmers’ Market
Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Independence Lane, Maitland
FREE to enter Maitland Farmers’ Market to shop a variety of vendors and fresh vegetables.
Check out more farmers’ markets in Central Florida.
Sanford Food Truck Fiesta
Second Sunday of the month, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
FREE outdoor street party with 40 food trucks and live music.
Check out FREE entry days at Leu Gardens.
Sanford’s Marketplace at Magnolia
Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
150 East 1st Street, Sanford
FREE to walk around and explore home decor, arts and crafts, produce, baked goods, and more.
Yoga in the Garden
Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Mead Botanical Gardens, Winter Park
Namaste for a yoga session in the gardens. Tickets are $10.
![](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Butterfly_Design_Lampscreen.jpg?resize=600%2C448&ssl=1)
Photo: Morse Museum. Butterfly design lamp screen, c. 1905, from Tiffany Studios (1902–32).
Lamps and Lighting—Tiffany and His Contemporaries
Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Experience the new installation of Lamps and Lighting—Tiffany and His Contemporaries that showcase Tiffany’s most beautiful lamps. $6 for adults and FREE for children younger than 12.
Wekiva Island
Wekiva Island, Longwood
Beat the heat and have fun in this beautiful weather while paddleboarding, canoeing, renting a cabana, and more! Enjoy local drinks and some yummy food from the Tooting Otter. $5 per person entry fee.
Sounds of Wekiva
Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Wekiva Island, Longwood
FREE live music at the Tooting Otter Bar.
You might also be interested in discounted tickets to:
- SeaWorld Orlando
- Universal Orlando Resort
- Kennedy Space Center
- Gatorland
- Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Ice Skating at Orlando Ice Den
Orlando Ice Den, Maitland
Admission for weekday afternoon sessions is $17, which includes your skate rental and tax. Pricing is the same for children and adults. Admission on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday is $20.
Check out where to go ice skating near Orlando.
Lake Lotus Park
Altamonte Springs
FREE to check out this hidden gem with 150 acres of preserved woods and wetlands. It’s open on the weekends with a 1-mile raised boardwalk, play areas, nature walks, a fishing pier, an education center, and a beautiful “window” on the lake.
![Romantic things to do Orlando: rent swan boats at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Swan-Boats-at-Lake-Eola-600x304.png?resize=600%2C304&ssl=1)
Rent your own Swan Boat at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando.
Swan Boats at Lake Eola Park
Lake Eola, downtown Orlando
Rent pedal-powered swan boats on the historic and iconic Lake Eola. $15 for 30 minutes on the water.
Semoran Skateway
Every Saturday and Sunday Matinee Skate, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Semoran Skateway on 436
Groove in your skates around the rink! They also have a separate smaller rink for beginners. Arcade games and a small cafe to refresh yourself with Gatorade, coffee, water — or an iced pop for only 25 cents! Admission is $8, which includes skate rental.
![Things to do this weekend in Orlando: image of woman doing yoga with a mini goat at Alaska Farms](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Goat-Yoga.jpg?resize=481%2C600&ssl=1)
Goat Yoga classes are available at Alaska Farms. Image courtesy of Alaska Farms.
Goat Yoga at Alaska Farms
Alaska Farms and Co., Orlando
Transform stress into happiness with goat yoga. Mini goats love interacting with people, and you will love it, too!
Baby Goat Yoga
Wildflower Farm, Orlando
Meet baby goats, pigs, and more while enjoying an outdoor yoga session.
MORE ORLANDO EVENTS & THINGS TO DO
![Things to do in Orlando - image of yoga class at Mennello Museum](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Screen-Shot-2018-09-27-at-9.57.17-AM.png?resize=600%2C469&ssl=1)
Yoga at Mennello Museum of Art on Sunday.
Yoga in the Sculpture Garden
Sundays at 11:30 a.m.
Mennello Museum of American Art
$10 for a lakeside yoga flow class. Bring your own mat and water. Your ticket also includes a complimentary pass to enjoy the museum.
Saturday Yoga in the Garden
Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Mead Botanical Gardens, Winter Park
Take part in the opportunity to truly connect with yourself and nature at the beautiful Mead Botanical Gardens here in Orlando. Don’t forget your water and yoga mat. Tickets are just $10.
Sunday Yoga at Alestone Brewing
Sundays at 10 a.m.
Alestone Brewing Co., Longwood
Enjoy a Sunday morning yoga session at the brewery. $15 per person includes one cold brew at the end.
![Date night ideas: image of downtown entrance with bike trails and brick lined streets in downtown Winter Garden](https://i0.wp.com/orlandoonthecheap.com/lotc-cms/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Screen-Shot-2021-02-03-at-4.42.42-PM.png?resize=600%2C385&ssl=1)
Welcome to Winter Garden. Image: @officaldowntownwintergarden
Downtown Sanford Historical Tour
This exciting historical walking tour guides you through some architectural styles dating back to 1883 while providing their incredibly rich history. Plus, the resident guide will provide you with fascinating stories about the city’s history. This is a 90-minute tour that starts at 10:30 am. Tickets are $20.
Sanford Ghost Tours
Ghost tours, stories, and haunted buildings in the downtown area of Sanford. Tours last 1 hour and 30 minutes and cost $20. Children (3 yrs and younger) FREE.
Fridays on the Plaza
Fridays, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Centennial Plaza Gazebo, Downtown Winter Garden
FREE evening of live music on the plaza.
Show Car Saturdays
Every Saturday at 4 p.m.
Promenade at Sunset Walk, Kissimmee
FREE to check out classic and modern automobiles while enjoying the music of local live bands.
Classic Car Show
Saturdays at 4 p.m.
Old Town, Kissimmee
FREE to check out a variety of classic cars.
MORE FREE & CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO
- Mead Gardens is a FREE 47-acre park with an amphitheater, butterfly garden, boardwalk, and bike trail.
- Winter Park Boat Tour: float through the canals and lush landscape of Winter Park’s waterways on a tranquil Scenic Boat Tour.
- Lake Eola features a playground, art sculptures, and swan boats.
- Harry P. Leu Gardens is a 50-acre botanical oasis boasting a rose garden, butterfly garden, and vegetable garden.
- Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is an 11-mile drive with a chance to view native animals in their natural habitat including 174 bird species. The drive is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Take a relaxing stroll.
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 near Orlando are completely free unless otherwise noted.
Ride your favorite rollercoasters (from your couch).
Pretend you are in the middle of all the theme park excitement!
MORE FREE & CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO
- Cheap things to do with kids in Orlando
- Orlando attractions under $30
- Where to go ice skating in Orlando
- Best free and cheap outdoor adventures in Orlando
For more Orlando discounts:
Stay connected with Orlando on the Cheap (for FREE)!
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Loretta Gatson says
Wrong week. We will be there August 25th -August 31, 2019.
Laura says
Hi Loretta! We create a list of free and cheap things to do for every weekend in Orlando. It is posted every Wednesday. We hope you check back for the events happening during your visit. – Laura
Angel says
Thank you for publishing this for us! Really appreciate it!!
Deborah L Trahan says
Great info…. thanks so much for sharing!!!
Laura says
We are so happy to hear that! You are very welcome!
Nick M. says
Absolute best website for events and activities in the Orlando area. I get the email and check the website every Thursday to help plan my weekend. Thanks for all the excellent info.
Laura says
We love this. Thank you so much, Nick, for being a loyal reader!
mrbigb says
just found your newsletter on the internet
always looking to get out of the house on weeekends
thanks for all the information i definetly found somewhere to go this weekend. loking foward to other weekends from your newsletter
Laura says
I’m so happy you found us. Thanks for following along!
pickthevoucher says
I just discovered your newsletter on the internet, and I’m always seeking for new ways to spend my weekends.
Thanks for all of the information; I’ve definitely discovered a place to visit this weekend. I’m looking forward to reading about previous weekends in your newsletter.
pickthecoupon says
The greatest website in the Orlando area for events and activities. Every Thursday, I receive an email and visit the website to help me plan my weekend. Thank you for all of the useful information.
Laura says
Thank you for being a loyal reader. I’m so happy to hear this.
Keep living on the cheap!