Orlando is well known for amazing theme parks, but there are also many free kids’ activities in Orlando. You don’t need a ton of money for a fun weekend with the family or a play date adventure.
We’ve found plenty of free and cheap things to do with your kids 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.
If you have an event to share, submit it to our Orlando calendar.
Lake Eola resident swans. Image: Melody Larson.
Free things to do with kids in Orlando
Lake Eola
Lake Eola Park is a 43-acre recreational area in the heart of downtown Orlando. The kids will love the large playground with activities for every age. Picnic along the shore, feed the resident swans, catch a free concert at the amphitheater and take a stroll around the lake. Enjoy spectacular views of Orlando’s skyline and marvel at the iconic Lake Eola fountain.
Bike and nature trails
Seminole County’s award-winning recreational trail system is a Central Florida best-kept secret with more than 60 miles of paved and natural trails. Whatever adventure you choose, it’s free to journey through the trails of Central Florida. Explore Central Florida’s trails:
Daytona Beach is a short drive from Orlando and you’ll find plenty of free & cheap things to do. Image courtesy: Daytona Beach CVB
The Beach
We might be in the middle of the state, but some of the best beaches in Florida are just a day’s trip away. Pack the car with toys, an umbrella, and a cooler of snacks for a day trip to Cocoa or New Smyrna Beach.
Check out this list of free & cheap things to do in New Smyrna and Daytona Beach.
Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs.
Parks
Central Florida is home to many beautiful parks and recreational facilities. One of the easiest ways to find parks closest to you is to log on to Yelp to explore your options and read reviews. You can also search on Seminole or Orange counties’ websites.
Lake Mary Trailblazer Park Splash Pad.
Splash Pads
Cool off when it’s hot outside at one of Central Florida’s free (or small-fee) splash pads.
Free outdoor movies are hosted by the city of Oviedo.
Free outdoor movies
Round up the crew for a cozy evening of family-friendly flicks under the stars. Here’s our guide to free outdoor movies in Orlando.
Mennello Museum of American Art
Every second Sunday of the month, Mennello Museum offers free admission to the galleries, craft stations, and mini-tours for kids. And then it’s an open house to all the galleries for you to explore.
Image courtesy: Harry P. Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens
Stroll through the lush gardens or bring a blanket to relax in the shade while the kids play. Entry to the gardens is free on select first Mondays (check the website before going). The regular ticket price is $10 for kids, $15 for adults, and free for 3 and under.
The Orange County Regional History Center
On the third Thursday of every month, admission is free from 6pm – 8pm. Kids 4 and under are always free.
Ride the SunRail
Take the kids on a fun tour of Orlando and surrounding cities. Kids under 6 ride for free with a paying adult.
Free entry to Orlando Science Center the first weekend of every month with a BOA card.
Free entry to Orlando museums
Take the kids on a cultural journey with the Museums On Us program. Show your Bank of America or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card the first weekend of every month and you (the cardholder) will get free admission to the Orlando Science Center, Orlando Museum of Art, Mennello Museum of American Art, Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, and Orange County Regional History Center.
Check out this list of free museum days in Orlando and museums that are always free.
Library
The Orange County Library System hosts free storytime for various age groups from babies to 5 years old. The library also schedules fun events and interactive presentations.
The Orange County Library. Photo courtesy of Amanda Murphy.
Remind your kids why the library is cool (if “cool” is still a cool word). Get your card today. For a fun playdate, go to storytime at the downtown Orlando library and then head to Lake Eola to enjoy the playground and picnic on the shore of Lake Eola.
Central Florida Zoo
Take your young kids to the Central Florida Zoo to meet the animals they’ve learned about in books at a special free storytime event. Storytime at the Zoo is held on Wednesday mornings a few days out of the year.
Visit the zoo afterward ($19.50 for adults and $13.75 for kids when purchased online) to explore animal habitats and play in the Tropical Splash Ground.
Disney’s BoardWalk
Experience the timeless charm of Disney’s BoardWalk, a quarter-mile of shops offering free live entertainment in the evenings.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a fun-filled escape, brimming with unique boutiques, culinary surprises, and lively entertainment. Parking is free, and it’s free to walk around and explore.
Wekiva Island
Located along the shore of the spring-fed Wekiva River, this eco-friendly oasis has it all — from recreational activities to a bar that serves beer and wine. Spend the day lounging in Adirondack chairs, playing volleyball, swimming in the cool waters, and listening to live music. Admission is free during the week, and the charge is only a dollar or two on the weekends.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
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.
Sanford Riverwalk. Image: Melody Larson.
Sanford Riverwalk
Take a relaxing walk next to Lake Monroe on the palm tree-lined sidewalk at the Sanford Riverwalk. There’s a fun playground and a splash pad ($2 per person; free on the first Friday of every month) at Fort Mellon Park. Hop aboard the free trolley that offers multiple stops along the Riverwalk and Historic Downtown Sanford.
Old Town Car Cruises
Hot rods, street rods, antiques, and muscle cars roll down the street at Old Town in Kissimmee a few nights every week. They also have free outdoor movies for families on Sunday evenings.
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. If you have an event to share, submit it to our Orlando calendar.
MORE FREE & CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO:
30 attractions under $30 in Orlando
Cheap things to do with kids in Orlando
