Who doesn’t love Walt Disney World, EPCOT, and Universal Studios? Those are all incredible amusement parks to enjoy while in Orlando, Florida, but in between the many signature sensations, you may desire an activity or two that doesn’t have quite as high a price tag – like free! Check out these secret value attractions.
Get ready to learn about all the different ways you can enjoy Orlando while giving your wallet a bit of a reprieve!
Lake Eola Park
One might describe Lake Eola Park as the heart and soul of Orlando. It’s the center of the city and free to visit. Go for a stroll, rest on a bench and take in the sights, or peruse the offerings of the Sunday farmer’s market. Visit cityoforlando.net for more information!
Enzian Theater 
Orlando charm at its finest, Enzian Theater offers a free outdoor movie every Wednesday during its Wednesday Night Pitcher Show. Though the beer isn’t free, the movie is! Quite the romantic setup, the movie is shown under the stars surrounded by spectacular age-old oak trees. There’s plenty on tap in the way of food and beverages – for an additional cost of course. See theater showings, here.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
If you happen to be in Orlando on the first Monday of a given month, take a trip to the magnificent Harry P. Leu Gardens, where you can explore the stunning 19th century home and spend hours strolling through the beautiful, exotic, flowers. Learn more at leugardens.org.
Ocala National Forest
Just north of Orlando lies the Ocala National Forest, one of nature’s true gems. It happens to be the southernmost forest in the continental U.S. and protects the world’s largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest. Ocala features more than 600 lakes, rivers, and springs. You can swim, snorkel, and even dive into the crystal clear water year-round. Plan your visit here.
Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards
Free tastings and tours! Of course, there are products for sale, but you can start off by sipping on the wines as you take in the surrounding beauty. The winery also offers fun family-friendly activities and festivities free of charge from time to time. Take a closer look at lakeridgewinery.com.
Disney Springs
Let’s start out by saying Disney Springs has plenty to spend money on, but visiting the site itself is completely free! If you have children in tow, this might not end up being a cost-effective activity ha-ha. In all seriousness, though, Disney Springs has recently received quite the facelift and has noticeably expanded. A lovely place to go for a stroll, shop, and dine. See everything there is to do at Disney Springs here.
Fort Christmas Historical Park
Ok history buffs, this one is for you. You can visit the replica of a fort built in 1837 during the Second Seminole Indian War. There’s also a traditional Florida “Cracker” house, eight pioneer homes, and a schoolhouse from the time. Head to orangecoutyfl.net to learn more.
Little Big Econ State Forest
Take in the unspoiled Florida wilderness! Little Big Econ State Forest is the perfect place to hike, mountain bike, canoe, or simply walk around. The trails are well-marked and will take you through forests and along rivers that wind through wildlife. Find more details here.
CityArts Factory
Downtown Orlando’s largest collection of art galleries can be found at CityArts Factory. The various galleries showcase an infusion of local and international works of art, rotated each month. The best bit is, of course, it’s free! Get the details right here!
Each of these activities provides a new value lens to see the iconic city of Orlando through. It isn’t often that Orlando visitors take the time to experience the city outside of its theme parks. The theme parks are spectacular, but it’s also great fun, and less expensive, to explore elsewhere! If you position yourself central to Orlando’s offerings, you’ll save travel time as you go to-and-fro.
The city’s newest resort, The Grove Resort & Spa Orlando, is located just outside of Walt Disney World and within easy reach of all the major attractions. The Grove Resort & Spa Orlando is comprised entirely of suites and features a lake, pools, water park, spa, arcade and more, leaving you with plenty of excitement and relaxation without needing to go anywhere at all! Book your stay today!
