Free & cheap things to do in Orlando

There’s so much to do in the City Beautiful — and plenty of ways to experience it without breaking the bank.

While physical distancing is in effect, we’ll include virtual events and businesses that are opening. If you’re going out, it’s wise to phone first. Events are subject to change at any time. Many venues are open fewer hours and require a reservation.

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.

Enchanted Fairy Doors at Leu Gardens now through October 31, 2020.

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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.

Enchanted Fairy Doors
Now through October 31, 2020
Harry P. Leu Gardens
The fairies are back! Search for 20 whimsical fairy doors throughout the gardens. $10 adult, $5 child (ages 4 – 17 years). FREE days are scheduled for Sept. 7 and Oct. 5.

Orlando Philharmonic Summer Serenades Series
Saturday evenings in August at 8pm
FREE virtual event. The Summer Serenades is a 4-part premiere concert series featuring musicians from the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra.

Sunset Live!
Fridays, 6pm – 10pm
Sunset Walk, Kissimmee
FREE live music.

Baby Goat Yoga
Classes available Friday – Sunday
Wildflower Farm, Orlando
$22 per person. 

Drive-in Movies
Movies playing every night
West Volusia Drive-In Theater in Deltona
$20 per car. Purchase tickets in advance, online

SeaWorld Orlando’s Flicks & Fireworks
Fridays and Saturdays through Sept. 5 and Sunday, Sept. 6.
Drive up for food trucks, fireworks and a movie. $50 per car. Food truck service begins at 7:45 pm and movie starts at 9pm.

Classic Car Show
Saturdays at 4pm
Old Town, Kissimmee
FREE to check out a variety of classic cars. Cars limited and spaced out for safety.

Drive-In Movie Experience
Featuring: Trolls
Saturday, August 15 at 7:30pm
Serenity Ranch: 8001 Clarcona Ocoee Road
$30 per vehicle.

Winter Park Farmers’ Market
Saturdays from 8am to 1pm
Central Park, Winter Park

You might also want to check out more farmers’ markets in Central Florida.

Maitland Farmers’ Market
Sundays from 8:30am to 1:30pm
701 Lake Lily Drive

Universal Orlando ticket deal
Buy one day, get the rest of the year FREE. Valid now through December 24, 2020.

Orlando Splash Pad Parks
Visit your local splash pad to cool off. Some are free or just a few dollars for entrance.

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. The hour-long tour is $14 for adults.
• Lake Eola features a playground, art sculptures and swan boats ($15 for a 30-minute ride).
• Harry P. Leu Gardens is 50-acre botanical oasis boasting a rose garden, butterfly garden and a vegetable garden. $10 for adults, $5 for kids age 4-17, free for kids age 3 years and younger.
• The Black Hammock Adventures is a lakeside bar and restaurant in Oviedo with amazing sunset views on Lake Jesup and airboat tours.
• 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.

Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park. Image: @wildfloridaairboats on Instagram.

• Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park is a self-guided journey to get up close and personal with hundreds of wild animals. $20 per child, $29 per adult.

• 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.
• Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter is home to one of the largest native butterfly conservatories in the state of Florida. Peak season for an up-close experience is April – September.

• Gatorland is offering half off tickets for Florida Residents through July 31, 2020. Adults $14.99; children ages 3-12 pay $9.99.
• Central Florida Zoo is open with modified hours and timed online ticket to enter. Adults $19.50; children $13.75.

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!

• Free virtual rides at Walt Disney World Resort
• Free virtual rides at Universal Orlando Resort

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