10 free things to do in Orlando for budget travelers

Orlando may be known for its theme parks, but there are plenty of free things to do in Orlando that let you experience the city without spending a dime. Whether exploring scenic parks, strolling through lively entertainment districts, or discovering unique cultural spots, you’ll find countless ways to enjoy Orlando on a budget.

This list highlights the best free attractions in Orlando, from the picturesque shores of Lake Eola to the charming waterfront of Disney’s Boardwalk. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for something new, these free experiences offer fun, relaxation, and a glimpse of Orlando beyond the theme parks.

Best Free things to do in Orlando

• Best place for free views: Watch the Epcot fireworks for free from Disney’s Boardwalk, with stunning reflections over Crescent Lake.
• Best free attraction: Lake Eola Park offers a scenic downtown escape with swan-filled waters, a walking trail, and a glowing fountain.
• Best free activity: Strolling through Disney Springs lets you enjoy live entertainment, themed architecture, and a taste of Disney magic, without the ticket price.

1. Visit Lake Eola Park

If it’s your first time in Orlando, Lake Eola Park is the perfect introduction to the city’s downtown charm. Located in the heart of Orlando, the park is centered around a large lake with a one-mile (1.6 km) walking path, swan-shaped paddle boats, and the iconic Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain, which lights up in different colors at night. With plenty of green space, sculptures, and a resident population of real swans, it’s a peaceful escape from the theme park crowds.

How best to experience

Take a leisurely walk around the lake and look for the park’s famous swans, including trumpeter, whooper, black-necked, and royal mute varieties. The Orlando Farmers Market takes over the southeast corner every Sunday, offering fresh produce, local art, and live music.

Address

512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 3280

Opening hours

Open daily 6:00–12:00 AM

2. Explore Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a massive waterfront entertainment complex that offers a taste of Disney magic without the ticket price. Once known as Downtown Disney, the area has expanded into a bustling district filled with themed shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. Designed with four distinct sections, it blends classic Florida influences with Disney touches, from a 1920s-inspired waterfront to a marketplace filled with whimsical stores. Visitors can see massive hot air balloons soaring above the lake, browse unique boutiques, and catch free daily performances.

How best to experience

Start at The Landing, where vintage-style architecture and waterfront views set the scene for a relaxing stroll. Head to the Marketplace to explore the world’s largest Disney store or visit the LEGO Store to see impressive life-sized character sculptures. For entertainment, street musicians, acrobats, and dance performances take place daily

Address

1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Opening hours

Sunday–Thursday 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM

3. Visit the West Orange Trail

Stretching 22 miles (35 km) from Killarney Station to Apopka, the West Orange Trail is one of the best outdoor places to visit in Orlando for free. This paved trail runs through historic towns, scenic nature preserves, and shaded oak canopies, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s busy attractions. Originally a railway corridor, it was converted into a multi-use path, making it popular with walkers, cyclists, and joggers. Along the way, visitors pass through Winter Garden, a charming town with brick-lined streets and local cafes, and can spot wildlife like deer and turtles in the quieter sections of the trail.

How best to experience

For a hidden gem, stop at Chapin Station, a historic railroad site turned trailhead with shaded picnic areas and a small museum displaying local railway history. Another unique spot is the Oakland Nature Preserve, just off the trail near Killarney Station. A boardwalk leads to Lake Apopka, offering a peaceful detour with chances to see alligators and wading birds. The Ingram Outpost, a lesser-known rest area, features butterfly gardens and a quiet seating area surrounded by oak trees.

Address

501 Crown Point Cross Rd, Winter Garden, FL 34787

Opening hours

Open daily 7:00 AM–8:00 PM

4. Visit the Sculpture Garden in Lake Nona

The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is an open-air art space featuring large-scale contemporary sculptures set among landscaping and reflective ponds. This free attraction is part of the Lake Nona Town Center, a modern mixed-use district known for its innovation and design. The sculptures include works by internationally renowned artists such as JEFRË and Fernando Botero, whose bronze figures stand out against the park’s natural backdrop. The garden is designed as a space for relaxation and creativity, blending art with the surrounding environment.

How best to experience

Take a self-guided stroll through the garden to admire the diverse sculptures, each with its own unique style and story. The space is illuminated in the evening, creating a striking contrast between the modern artworks and the surrounding greenery.

Address

Lake Nona Town Center, Orlando, FL 32827

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

5. Hike at the Tibet-Butler Preserve

Tibet-Butler Preserve is a natural oasis outside Orlando, offering a peaceful retreat into Central Florida’s diverse ecosystems. This preserve features well-maintained hiking trails that wind through pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and freshwater marshes, providing a glimpse of the region’s untouched wilderness. The Vera Carter Environmental Center at the entrance offers educational exhibits about local wildlife, including gopher tortoises, barred owls, and bobcats.

How best to experience

Take the 3.6-mile (5.8 km) Pine Circle Trail, which loops through different habitats and leads to scenic overlooks along Lake Tibet. The Fallen Log Crossing, a natural bridge made from a large fallen tree, is a unique spot along the trail. The preserve is great for birdwatchers to spot woodpeckers, herons, and even bald eagles. Arrive early to enjoy the trails in cooler temperatures and with fewer crowds.

Address

8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32836

Opening hours

Tuesday–Sunday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

6. Enjoy the Kraft Azalea Garden

Nestled along the shores of Lake Maitland, Kraft Azalea Garden is a hidden gem known for its towering cypress trees, Spanish moss-draped canopies, and peaceful lakeside views. This public garden is open year-round and offers an escape just minutes from downtown Orlando. The park is especially popular in spring when its namesake azaleas bloom in shades of pink and purple. The Exedra, a large semi-circular columned structure near the lake, adds a unique touch to the landscape and is a popular photography spot.

How best to experience

Take a quiet walk along the waterfront, where you might spot great blue herons or ospreys perched in the trees. For a peaceful moment, find a shaded bench beneath the cypress trees and watch the boats drift across the lake. Sunset is a beautiful time to visit, as the golden light filters through the Spanish moss, creating a picture-perfect setting.

Address

1365 Alabama Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789

Opening hours

Open daily 8:00 AM–7:00 PM

7. Explore the Rollins Museum of Art

Located on the Rollins College campus, the Rollins Museum of Art is one of the most underrated museums in Orlando. It houses a collection of over 5,500 works of art from the Renaissance to contemporary times, including pieces by Francisco Goya and Andy Warhol. The museum also features rotating exhibitions and an extensive collection of European Old Master paintings—one of the few free collections of its kind in the region. Visitors can explore indoor galleries and the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art displayed throughout the college’s public spaces.

How best to experience

Start inside the museum, where curators frequently rotate exhibitions, bringing in thought-provoking modern and classical works. Then, take a self-guided tour around the Rollins College campus to see additional pieces from the Alfond Collection. The museum also offers free educational talks and events, so check their calendar for special programs.

Address

1000 Holt Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Opening hours

Closed Mondays
Tuesday 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Wednesday–Friday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Saturday–Sunday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

8. Stroll the Disney Wilderness Preserve

The Disney Wilderness Preserve spans over 11,500 acres (4,654 hectares) of restored wetlands just south of Orlando. It is home to native Florida wildlife and scenic walking trails. Originally a cattle ranch, Disney purchased the land in the 1990s and donated it for conservation efforts, creating a sanctuary for endangered species like the red-cockaded woodpecker and gopher tortoise. Visitors can explore its peaceful, undeveloped landscape and experience a side of Florida far removed from the theme parks.

How best to experience

Walk the 2.5-mile (4-km) loop trail, which passes through open prairies, cypress swamps, and along the shore of Lake Russell. Watch for sandhill cranes, otters, and even bald eagles soaring overhead. The visitor center provides information on the preserve’s history and ongoing conservation work.

Address

2700 Scrub Jay Trail, Poinciana, FL 34759

Opening hours

Tuesday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed Sundays

9. Walk the galleries at CityArts Factory

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, CityArts is a collective of art galleries housed within the historic Rogers Kiene Building, the oldest commercial structure in the city. This multi-use arts and cultural destination features seven distinct galleries, showcasing a diverse range of local and international artworks, from contemporary pieces to traditional fine art. Visitors can immerse themselves in Orlando’s dynamic art scene, with rotating monthly exhibits ensuring there’s always something new.

How best to experience

Plan your visit during the 3rd Thursday Gallery Hop, when CityArts unveils its new exhibitions with opening receptions, live music, and opportunities to meet the artists. After exploring the galleries, take a moment to appreciate the Queen Anne-style architecture, a nod to Orlando’s rich history.

Address

39 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Opening hours

Tuesday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed Mondays

10. Walk Down Disney’s Boardwalk

Disney’s Boardwalk is a quarter-mile (0.4 km) promenade along Crescent Lake, designed to evoke the charm of a 1920s Atlantic coastal boardwalk. It is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios and offers scenic views, street performers, and a nostalgic atmosphere. The area is home to waterfront restaurants, the BoardWalk Inn resort, and free entertainment, making it a great place to explore without spending a dime. At night, the boardwalk lights up with a lively yet relaxed energy, offering a different side of Disney magic beyond the theme parks.

How best to experience

Stroll along the promenade and enjoy live street performances in the evening, including magicians and musicians. Walk to the bridge connecting the Boardwalk to the Yacht and Beach Club Resorts for one of the best free views of the Epcot fireworks. If you’re visiting during the day, find a shady bench and watch the boats ferry guests between the resorts and parks.

Address

2101 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Orlando, FL 32830

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

Best Free Things to Do in Orlando: FAQs

What are some popular parks in Orlando to visit?

Orlando is home to several beautiful parks, which are perfect for a day out. Lake Eola Park is a favorite with its iconic fountain and swan boat rentals. Harry P. Leu Gardens offers free admission on the first Monday of each month and showcases stunning botanical displays. Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake provides a serene setting for picnics and walking trails.

Are there any free art galleries or museums in Orlando?

Yes, the CityArts in downtown Orlando offers free admission and showcases a variety of contemporary art exhibits. The Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College provides free entry and features an impressive European and American art collection. Check their schedules for any special free events or exhibitions.

Is there a place to enjoy live music for free in Orlando?

Downtown Orlando hosts free live music events throughout the year. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts often has free outdoor concerts. Lake Eola Park is known for hosting free concerts and festivals, especially during weekends and holidays, providing a great atmosphere for music lovers.

Can you recommend a scenic spot for a walk in Orlando?

The Orlando Urban Trail is a great option for a scenic walk. This 3-mile trail connects several parks and lakes, offering picturesque views and a peaceful environment. Another option is the West Orange Trail, which is longer and perfect for walking and cycling, providing a glimpse of Orlando’s natural beauty.

Are there any free festivals or events in Orlando?

Orlando hosts a variety of free festivals and events throughout the year. The Orlando Fringe Festival offers free outdoor performances and activities. The Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival is another popular event featuring free art displays and live entertainment. Keep an eye on local event calendars for more free happenings.

Where can I explore Orlando’s history for free?

The Orange County Regional History Center offers free admission on the third Thursday of each month, allowing visitors to explore Central Florida’s rich history. Additionally, the historic district of Winter Park provides a charming area to walk and discover historical architecture and landmarks without any cost.

Is there a place to enjoy nature without leaving the city?

The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve offers a natural escape within the city. Its well-maintained trails allow visitors to explore diverse ecosystems and observe local wildlife. Another option is the Mead Botanical Garden, which provides a peaceful setting with gardens, wetlands, and walking paths, all free to enjoy.

What are some free activities for families in Orlando?

Families can enjoy a day at the Disney Springs, exploring shops, enjoying live entertainment, and participating in seasonal events without any entrance fee. The Orlando Public Library often hosts free family-friendly events and workshops, making it an excellent spot for educational and fun activities.