Free Things to Do in Orlando

When one thinks of a trip to Orlando, they probably conjure up images of incredible theme parks, expensive dining, and luxurious lodgings. Orlando, has other faces, however; it’s home to a number of art galleries and museums, public nature reserves, and miscellaneous sites. This list covers just a few of the many free things to do in this great city. Whether you’re going on a budget or just want a way to break up your Universal/Disney trip without adding to the bill, Orlando has options for you!

1. Kelly Park

With a $1 entrance fee, seeing the rock springs at Kelly Park may not technically be free, but, given the beautiful sights which lay in this park, it’s an incredible bargain! This reserve offers swimming and tubing in a scenic, wooded area, packed with flora and fauna. Surrounding the springs is a boardwalk and picnic area for drying off and eating.

2. Big Tree Park

Witness astonishing cypress tree and this wilderness preserve. Among its many trees is “The Senator”, a 38 meter-high cypress estimated at 3,500 years old. The park is also full of picnic tables, so bring a lunch and make an afternoon of your visit!

3. Fleaworld and Funworld

Just North of Orlando are two of the largest flea markets in the country. Come and shop through bargain items from thousands of vendors while enjoying free entertainment, including acrobatics, circus performers, and live animals. Both are open during the weekends.

4. Zulu Exclusive Gallery

This unique gallery displays contemporary and ancient art Africa, including Zulu and Shona pieces. Learn about the distinct and underappreciated art from the continent of Africa!

5. Albin Polasek Sculpture Garden

Head to Winter Park and explore the works of famed sculptor Albin Polasek! The adjoining museum is closed for the summer, but you can the sculpture garden all year round free of charge!

6. Harry P. Leu Gardens

In addition to holding the largest rose garden in the state of Florida, this beautiful park contains a tropical steam garden, a butterfly garden, and palm, bamboo and cycad gardens. In addition to these diverse landscapes the grounds contains a museum and often functions as an art venue. Admission is free on the first Monday of each month, so get outside and visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens on your next trip.

7. Grand Bohemian Art Gallery

Even if you can’t afford the luxurious Grand Bohemian Hotel, you can check out their art holdings free of charge. The hotel has a diverse collection of paintings, jewelry, and art glass.

8. Peabody Ducks

The sumptuous Peabody hotel is home to a one-of-a-kind occurrence: every morning, a group of ducks, hens, and drakes descend from their suite in a special elevator and waddle to the hotel’s fountain. In the evening, the procession is reversed. Bring the kids to witness this unique, adorable spectacle.

9. Keila Glassworks Gallery

Award winning glassblower Charles Keila has a free gallery and public studio in the Dr. Phillips building. Check out this unique artist and learn about the art of glassblowing!

10. Cornell Fine Arts Museum

Students and children get in free at this fine arts museum, which houses works from around the world, dating from antiquity to the present day. Discover Native American artwork, Middle Eastern artifacts, bronze sculptures, and Renaissance pieces such as Rosselli’s Madonna and Child Enthrone.

11. Disney’s Boardwalk

Regardless of whether you came to visit Orlando’s famous parks, any visitor can check out Disney’s Boardwalk for free. If its many restaurants and nightclubs are out of your price range, you can still appreciate the street performers, ranging from musicians to magicians.

12. Spook Hill

An old Seminole legend has it that their chief Cufcowellax killed a gator which had been terrorizing their village. Their legendary struggle led to the creation of a small lake, Ticowa, which was sacred to the tribe. Since white settlers repopulated the land people have noticed that the forces seem to draw them the nearby hill, rather than down. Put your car in neutral on this mysterious hill and see if the legend of Spook Hill is true!