If you’re planning your next trip to the theme park capital of the world and want to save some money, we’ve got a list of the best free places to visit in Orlando. Who said you need to empty your wallet to have fun in Florida?

The best things to do in Orlando for free

In this post, we’ll show you the best free things to do in Orlando. For example, you can stroll through the colorful streets of Church Street, letting yourself be surrounded by live music. Or, if you prefer a more relaxing plan, the waters of the charming Lake Eola Park are waiting for you under the warm Florida sun. Exploring this city for free is definitely a dream come true.

1. Lake Eola Park

If you’re a nature lover and enjoy beautiful landscapes, you can’t miss Lake Eola Park. This urban oasis, located in the heart of Orlando, offers not only stunning lake views but also a wide range of outdoor activities, such as relaxing boat rides, picnics, concerts, walks, and local markets.

If you’re looking for something more peaceful, we invite you to enjoy the beauty of the landscape while practicing yoga or meditating in the park. Also, don’t miss the stunning fountain that lights up in the evening.

Places to visit for free in Orlando: Lake Eola Park
  • Location: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801.
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

2. Orlando Museum of Art

Places to visit for free in Orlando: Orlando Museum of Art

If you’re passionate about art and culture, the Orlando Museum of Art offers an impressive collection of artworks from around the world, featuring both renowned classical and contemporary artists.

The architecture of the building is sure to stand out, as it is a work of art in itself. For example, you’ll notice that its interior is designed to transport you to a world full of beauty and creativity.

Keep in mind that the museum offers free admission on the third Thursday of every month as part of the Access for allprogram, which aims to make art accessible to the entire community.

  • Location: 2416 N. Mills Ave. Orlando, FL 32803.
  • Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM / Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM / Closed on Mondays and holidays.

3. Winter Park Historic District

If you want to experience authentic Florida, don’t miss the legendary Winter Park Historic District. Often referred to as “The Jewel of Florida,” this area is home to beautiful old houses, colorful shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. You can also stroll through its streets to enjoy the architecture and relaxed atmosphere, or grab a coffee at one of its outdoor terraces.

It’s worth noting that, in addition to its beautiful villas, the area also boasts several interesting museums, including the Winter Park History Museum and the Cornell Fine Arts Museum.

  • Location: 200 W. New England Ave. en Winter Park.
  • Hours: This area is open all day.

4. Lakeridge Winery Vineyards

Let yourself be seduced by the drink of the gods! Another place you can visit for free in Orlando is Lakeridge Winery Vineyards, an ideal destination for wine, food, and nature lovers. Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month there, offering you a unique experience of tasting award-winning wines: sweet, dry, and sparkling, along with a tour of the fascinating vineyards surrounded by a dreamy landscape.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the wine production process, taste delicious local dishes, and take part in special events throughout the year, such as grape festivals, guided tours of the winery, and outdoor concerts.

Places to visit for free in Orlando: Lakeridge Winery Vineyards
  • Location: 19239 US Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34715.
  • Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. / Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

5. Orlando Public Library

If you want to enjoy an afternoon of storytelling, join a book club, or learn about the culture of other countries, you’ll be happy to know that the Orlando Public Library offers all of this.

This space not only has an extensive collection of books, magazines, movies, and educational materials of all kinds, but it also offers a wide variety of areas to study, read, or simply relax.

In addition, it offers a diverse program that includes workshops, talks, and cultural events for all ages. Bring the little ones and let reading transport you to other worlds in a place full of imagination!

Places to visit for free in Orlando: Orlando Public Library
  • Location: 101 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801.
  • Hours: Monday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. / Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. / Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

6. Disney Springs

Disney Springs is an ideal destination for those looking for fun, shopping, and great food all in one place, as it offers a wide variety of restaurants, attractions, and stores with special Disney collection items.

What to do for free in Orlando?

Additionally, it offers a lively atmosphere with live music and special events throughout the year, where you’ll experience all the Disney magic filling every corner.

You can also visit the Lego Imagination Center, which offers a building block play adventure for both kids and adults.

  • Location: 1486 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830.
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. (hours may vary by establishment and are subject to change).

7. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve

If you’re looking for an adventure that allows you to connect with nature, the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve offers a unique experience, providing a natural paradise located in the heart of Orlando. It features a wide variety of trails for walking, running, or biking, activities you can enjoy while admiring the wildlife and beautiful flora that adorn the area. Discover local birds, reptiles, and mammals that inhabit this place, or simply enjoy the peace and tranquility in the air.

Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve
  • Location: 8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32836.
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

8. Popcorn Flicks in the Park

The magic of cinema awaits you at Popcorn Flicks in the Park, a charming free outdoor event where you can enjoy classic movies projected on a giant screen, all in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

This event, held in the iconic Winter Park, offers a diverse lineup throughout the year, including animated films, science fiction, and classic noir cinema. So, grab your bucket of popcorn, bring a comfy blanket, and dive into this cinematic experience under the stars.

Free activities in Orlando: Popcorn Flicks in the Park
  • Location: 251 S. Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789.
  • Hours: Movies are shown on the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. (Event times and dates may vary depending on the season).

9. Winter Park Farmers’ Market

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy fresh, seasonal food at affordable prices, the Winter Park Farmers Market is a great option. This spot offers a unique shopping experience with a wide variety of products from local vendors, including fruits, vegetables, breads, and pastry delights. You can also pick up distinctive regional crafts to decorate your home.

Winter Park Farmers’ Market
  • Location: 200 West New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789.
  • Hours: Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

10. University of Central Florida Arboretum

If you prefer to discover the region’s nature, the University of Central Florida Arboretum should be on your list. This spot offers an exploration experience of the local flora and fauna, with a wide variety of trails, gardens, and green spaces to explore. Discover the area’s biodiversity, which features an abundance of plants and trees, as well as fascinating bird species.

Additionally, this place offers a diverse schedule of cultural events and workshops suitable for all ages.

Places to visit for free in Orlando: University of Central Florida Arboretum
  • Location: 4312 Scorpius St, Orlando, FL 32816.
  • Hours: Open every day of the year from dawn to dusk.

11. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Embark on a fascinating natural journey! One of the free things to do in Orlando is visit Harry P. Leu Gardens. This botanical garden spans over 20 acres of land, with a wide variety of plants, lakes, trails, and lush landscapes.

Admire the elegance of tropical flowers, behold the majesty of palm trees, and walk under the shade of the tallest trees in Florida. Additionally, this magnificent place also houses a museum that tells the story of its original owners.

Would you like to relax by a lake surrounded by stunning gardens? We have a surprise for you! This place offers free admission on certain days of the year, and we invite you to check all the details on their official website.

Places to visit for free in Orlando: Harry P. Leu Gardens
  • Location: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803.
  • Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Map of places to visit for free in Orlando.

Discover the City of Light without spending a fortune with our map of the best places to visit for free in Orlando.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the most frequently asked questions by travelers about free places to visit in Orlando.

What can you do for free in Orlando?

The best places to visit for free in Orlando are:

What is there to do in Downtown Orlando?

Discover some of the most popular activities you can do in Downtown Orlando:

  • Take a stroll through Lake Eola Park and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
  • Visit the nearby theme parks, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
  • Attend free events, fireworks shows, and festivals, such as the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival.
  • Learn about the history of Orlando while visiting the Orange County Regional History Center.
  • Watch an Orlando Magic basketball game at the Amway Center.
  • Explore the street art in downtown Orlando.
  • Visit the farmers market and indulge in the delicious local food.
  • Take a walk through the gardens at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
  • Admire the historic architecture of Orlando on Church Street.

If you want to learn more about other things to do in the city center, we recommend reading our post: What to Do in Downtown Orlando?

What to do cheaply in Orlando?

If you’re looking for activities to do in Orlando without spending much money, here are some options:

  • Lake Eola Park.
  • Winter Park.
  • Harry P. Leu Gardens.
  • City Arts Factory.
  • Disney Springs.

What are the must-see things in Orlando?

The places you definitely can’t miss in Orlando are:

  • Downtown Orlando.
  • Cornell Fine Arts Museum.
  • Universal City Walk.
  • Crayola Experience Orlando.
  • Disney’s Boardwalk.
  • Madame Tussauds Orlando Museum.
  • SeaWorld Orlando.
  • The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida.

What to do in Orlando besides Disney and Universal?

If you’re wondering what to do in Orlando besides Disney and Universal, we recommend visiting these places:

  • Kennedy Space Center.
  • The Florida Mall.
  • Daytona Beach.
  • Orlando Museum of Art.
  • Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
  • The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

Thank you for exploring the free places to visit in Orlando with us! Don’t wait any longer and discover the hidden gems this city has to offer.

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