If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando that won’t break the bank, you’re in luck! This vibrant city is full of entertainment and activities that can be enjoyed without spending a fortune. From local attractions to hidden gems, there are plenty of places to explore without breaking the bank. Here are cheap things to do in Orlando that will have you enjoying the city without spending a fortune on places to stay and entertainment.
Best Cheap and Inexpensive Things to Do in Orlando
If you’re planning a visit to Orlando on a budget, fear not! The city offers a plethora of fantastic and affordable activities that will make your trip memorable. Orlando doesn’t have to be an expensive destination. With a bit of planning and an eagerness to explore, you can enjoy an unforgettable vacation full of fantastic, cheap, and inexpensive activities that showcase the best this vibrant city has to offer.
Not Let’s dive into the list of top fun and cheap things to do in Orlando:
- Visit Disney Springs Orlando
- Take a Walking Tour of Downtown Orlando
- Go on a Scavenger Hunt at Gatorland
- See a Movie at the Drive-In
- Play Tourist and Visit Universal Studios
- Spend a Day at One of the Many Local Parks
- Check Out a Free Concert at the House of Blues
- Visit Theme Parks
- Indoor Skydiving
- Take a Helicopter Tour
- Explore Icon Park
- Visit the Orlando Science Center
- Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
- Enjoy Mini Golf
- Try Escape Rooms
- Check out the Orlando Eye
- Swim with Dolphins and Sharks
- Go Zip-lining
- Take a Ghost Tour
- See the Kennedy Space Center
- Take an Airboat Ride
- Go on a Segway Tour
1) Disney Springs Orlando
Disney Springs is a great place to visit in Orlando if you’re looking for free activities and attractions. This entertainment complex is full of sights, shopping, and dining options, all of which can be enjoyed without spending a dime. Take a stroll around the area, enjoy the waterfront views, and watch the nightly fountain shows that light up the night sky. With plenty of outdoor seating and spots to relax, Disney Springs is an ideal place to spend some time for free. There are also several free tours available, including a guided tour of the area that offers visitors insight into its history and attractions. So whether you’re sightseeing or just looking for a relaxing day out, there’s something for everyone to do at Disney Springs.
2) Take a Walking Tour of Downtown Orlando
Exploring the vibrant city of Orlando can be a great way to spend the day without spending a lot of money. One of the best things to do in Orlando is to take a free walking tour of Downtown Orlando. Not only is this a cheap option, but it’s also an easy way to get up close and personal with some of the city’s most popular attractions.
During your walking tour, you’ll be able to explore some of Downtown Orlando’s most popular areas, including
- Church Street Station (99 W South St, Orlando, FL 32801, United States)
- Lake Eola Park (Orlando, FL 32801)
- Thornton Park (Orlando, FL 32801)
You’ll also have the opportunity to experience some of the local cultures by checking out the stores, restaurants, and bars that line the streets. Plus, there are plenty of public art pieces to admire along the way. So if you’re looking for a low-cost way to experience all that Orlando has to offer, consider taking a free walking tour of Downtown Orlando. You won’t regret it!
3) Go on a Scavenger Hunt at Gatorland
If you’re looking for fun and free activities to do in Orlando, why not go on a scavenger hunt at Gatorland? Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve that’s located in the heart of the city. At Gatorland, visitors can explore the natural wonders of the Florida wetlands by going on a self-guided scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt will take you on a guided tour of the park, where you’ll get to see all sorts of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, turtles, and more. You’ll also have the chance to take part in some of the activities, such as feeding the alligators or taking part in a gator show. And best of all, it’s totally free! So if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to explore nature and have some fun, be sure to check out Gatorland’s scavenger hunt.
4) Drive-In Movie Theater
One of the best free activities in Orlando is to catch a movie at the drive-in theater. The Orlando Flea & Farmers Market offers free movies every Sunday night on their big screen. You can bring your own snacks and drinks or pick up something at the concession stand. Make sure you get there early to get a good spot – the lot fills up fast! If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, Silver Moon Drive-In Theater in nearby Lakeland offers a wide selection of films that you can enjoy from the comfort of your car. Please bring your own food or purchase snacks from their concession stand.
Here is the list of the best Drive-In Movie Theater Near Orlando.
5) Visit Universal Studios Orlando
If you’re looking for a classic tourist experience that won’t break the bank, look no further than Universal Studios in Orlando. Although admission prices to the park are quite steep, there are plenty of free activities available that will keep you entertained. From meeting some of your favorite characters to taking in the unique architecture and rides, you can easily spend an entire day at Universal without spending a dime.
One of the best free experiences Universal Studios has to offer is its live street shows. Catch performances by classic characters like Marilyn Monroe or Woody Woodpecker, or take in one of the many musical performances that go on throughout the day. With so many different shows and experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Another free activity available is the Universal Studios tram tour. You’ll get to explore behind-the-scenes areas of the movie studio, take in props and sets from your favorite films, and learn about the history of the studios. All of this is included with your admission price and is a great way to experience the park.
Finally, don’t forget to check out the souvenir shops around the park. While you may not have the budget to buy anything, it’s still fun to browse and take in the unique items for sale. Universal Studios also has several food options available for those looking for a snack or meal, with plenty of cheaper options like hot dogs and fries.
6) Spend a Day at One of the Many Local Parks
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly outdoor activity, why not spend a day at one of Orlando’s many local parks? There are plenty of parks that offer free activities such as walking trails, bird watching, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Lake Eola Park is one of the most popular parks in Orlando and it offers a variety of free activities.
Visitors can go for a walk or run around the lake, rent a paddle boat, enjoy live music at the Walt Disney Amphitheater, or take a romantic stroll through the gardens. Another great park to explore is the Harry P. Leu Gardens which features miles of trails, scenic views of the lake, and a butterfly garden. If you’re looking for more active outdoor activities, try out one of the many public basketball and tennis courts throughout the city. No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be something for everyone at one of Orlando’s many local parks.
7) Check Out a Free Concert at the House of Blues
House of Blues has been hosting live music shows for decades and they often feature free events. From local bands to national acts, you can find a variety of musical styles here. Plus, admission is free if you go early enough. So grab your friends, grab some snacks and drinks, and head to the House of Blues for an evening of live music that won’t break the bank.
8) Visit Theme Parks in Orlando
Orlando is known for its world-class theme parks, making it an absolute must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. With numerous activities and attractions available, you’ll never run out of fun things to do. Disney World is one of the most popular theme parks in the world and consists of four parks- Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each park is unique and offers something for everyone. You’ll have a blast riding roller coasters, meeting your favorite Disney characters, and watching the parades and shows.
Animal Kingdom
If you’re into sightseeing, Animal Kingdom is the perfect park for you. You’ll be able to experience the thrill of safari rides while admiring exotic animals. Epcot, on the other hand, offers a unique experience that combines futuristic technology with cultures from around the world. You can explore different countries and enjoy food from various cultures, making it an ideal park for foodies.
Overall, visiting theme parks in Orlando is an incredible sightseeing experience that leaves you feeling both exhilarated and fulfilled. With a wide range of activities and attractions available, it’s an experience that you won’t want to miss out on!
9) Indoor Skydiving
If you’ve always wanted to experience the thrill of skydiving, but don’t want to jump out of an airplane, indoor skydiving is the perfect activity for you. At iFly Indoor Skydiving Orlando, you’ll have the opportunity to fly inside a vertical wind tunnel, which simulates the sensation of freefall from an airplane.
Don’t worry if you’ve never tried indoor skydiving before – expert instructors will provide you with all the necessary equipment and training. You’ll learn the basic flying positions and hand signals that will help you stay in control during your flight. Once you’re suited up, you’ll step into the wind tunnel and be lifted into the air by a powerful stream of air. You’ll feel weightless as you float and twirl, suspended in mid-air.
This experience is excellent for families and groups, and even kids as young as 3 years old can participate. There’s no need to worry about safety, as the wind tunnel is fully enclosed, and all participants wear a special flight suit and helmet. Indoor skydiving is a thrilling activity that you won’t want to miss on your visit to Orlando. It’s a great way to experience the rush of skydiving without the risk – and it’s an experience that you’ll remember for years to come. The sensation of flying is unlike anything you’ve ever felt before. As you float in the wind tunnel, you’ll feel an incredible rush of adrenaline and excitement. Your heart will be pounding in your chest as you defy gravity and soar through the air. You’ll be smiling from ear to ear as you experience the sheer joy of flight.
10) Take a Helicopter Tour
Orlando from above is simply breathtaking. Take a helicopter tour and see the city from a different perspective. You can enjoy panoramic views of theme parks, golf courses, lakes, and other natural beauty that Orlando has to offer. Several tour companies in Orlando offer helicopter tours ranging from 10 to 45 minutes long. Choose the one that fits your budget and interests. Some tours take you over Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Harry Potter World. You can also fly over downtown Orlando and Lake Eola.
If you want to splurge, go for a private towqur. You can customize the route, take as many pictures as you like, and even have a romantic picnic in the sky. Helicopter tours are a great way to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or proposals.
Safety is the top priority for all helicopter tours in Orlando. All companies have trained pilots and adhere to strict safety standards. You will receive a safety briefing before the flight, and you can ask questions if you have any concerns. Don’t forget to bring a camera, comfortable clothing, and sunglasses. The helicopters have air conditioning, but it can still get warm. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning views of Orlando and make memories that will last a lifetime.
11) Explore Icon Park
Icon Park is a 20-acre entertainment complex that has something for everyone. With over 40 different attractions, shops, and restaurants, you can spend an entire day here exploring everything that Icon Park has to offer.
- One of the main attractions at Icon Park is The Wheel, which is the largest observation wheel on the East Coast.
- Standing at 400 feet tall, you can see the entire Orlando skyline and even catch a glimpse of the Kennedy Space Center on a clear day.
- If you want to make the experience even more memorable, consider upgrading to a VIP capsule, which includes a glass floor and a private bartender.
- Other attractions at Icon Park include the Sea Life Aquarium, Madame Tussauds wax museum, and the Pearl Express train ride.
- There are also several unique dining options, including Tapa Toro, a Spanish-style restaurant, and Uncle Julio’s, a Tex-Mex restaurant.
- In addition to all of the attractions, Icon Park also hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Iconic Summer Nights concert series and the Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration.
Overall, Icon Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a day filled with fun, entertainment, and delicious food. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all of the unforgettable moments. Not only will you be entertained, but you’ll also feel a sense of excitement and adventure as you explore Icon Park’s many attractions. The variety of dining options also means you can indulge in a variety of cuisines, from Spanish to Tex-Mex to seafood.
The delicious aromas and flavors of the food will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re craving savory paella or juicy fajitas, there’s something for every palate at Icon Park’s restaurants. And if you have a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by Sugar Factory, where you can indulge in their famous goblet drinks and colorful candy-inspired treats. After a day spent at Icon Park, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories, full bellies, and a sense of adventure that can only come from experiencing something new and exciting.
12) Visit the Orlando Science Center
The Orlando Science Center is a must-visit attraction for those who are interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This state-of-the-art facility features a variety of interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities that are fun for all ages.
From exploring the wonders of outer space to discovering the science behind electricity, there’s something for everyone at the Orlando Science Center. Kids will love the Dino Digs exhibit where they can pretend to be paleontologists and dig up dinosaur fossils. The Kinetic Zone is another popular exhibit where visitors can test their agility, reaction time and speed with a variety of challenges.
For those who are interested in astronomy, the Crosby Observatory is a must-see attraction. This 10,000-square-foot facility features a 10-inch refractor telescope, a 12-inch reflector telescope, and a 3-inch refractor telescope. Visitors can use these telescopes to view the moon, stars, and other celestial objects.
Overall, the Orlando Science Center is an educational and entertaining attraction that offers visitors the chance to learn about science and technology in a fun and interactive way. It’s a great place to spend a day with family and friends and gain a new appreciation for the wonders of the world around us.
13) Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique and breathtaking experience, consider going on a hot air balloon ride during your trip to Orlando. Take in the beautiful views of the city, and its stunning landscapes, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some of the iconic theme parks from above.
Several companies offer hot air balloon rides in Orlando, each providing a unique experience. For instance, one company takes off at sunrise, allowing you to see the sunrise from above and enjoy the tranquil scenery. Another company provides private balloon rides for a more intimate experience, perfect for couples or families.
Most balloon rides typically last about an hour and include a light breakfast or champagne toast upon landing. While it may be a bit pricey, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t forget anytime soon. Be sure to check the weather before booking a hot air balloon ride, as it can be canceled due to high winds or rain. It’s also important to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be standing for a while during takeoff and landing.
If you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable experience in Orlando, a hot air balloon ride is definitely worth considering. Book your ride in advance to secure your spot and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the sky. During your hot air balloon ride in Orlando, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the city’s famous landmarks such as the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. You can also appreciate the city’s natural beauty, with the views of Lake Apopka and the citrus groves.
Prices for hot air balloon rides in Orlando vary depending on the company and type of experience. On average, prices range from $150 to $300 per person. While it may seem a bit expensive, it’s worth the investment for a unique and unforgettable experience. Many companies offer group rates and special packages, so be sure to check their websites for the latest deals.
14) Enjoy Mini Golf
If you’re looking for a fun activity to enjoy with your family or friends, mini-golf is a classic option that everyone can enjoy. In Orlando, several mini-golf courses offer a unique and exciting experience. One popular mini golf course is Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf. This course has two 18-hole courses with pirate-themed obstacles and challenges. You can put your way through caves, waterfalls, and even a pirate ship. It’s a great option for kids and adults alike.
Another popular option is Congo River Golf. This mini golf course has 18 holes with a safari theme. As you play, you’ll encounter life-sized animatronic animals like giraffes, gorillas, and zebras. The course also has a challenging hole where you have to hit your ball across a pond filled with live alligators. For a more unique mini-golf experience, check out Putting Edge. This course has a futuristic theme with black-lit holes, glowing obstacles, and neon-colored balls. It’s a great option for a date night or a group of friends looking for a fun night out. No matter which mini golf course you choose, you’re sure to have a fun and memorable experience. It’s a great way to enjoy some friendly competition and soak up the Florida sunshine.
15) Try Escape Rooms
If you’re a fan of puzzles and challenges, escape rooms are the perfect activity for you. Orlando has several escape rooms that will put your problem-solving skills to the test. Gather a group of friends, try to solve the clues, and escape the room within the allotted time frame.
One popular escape room in Orlando is The Escape Game Orlando, which offers a variety of themed rooms such as a Mission Mars room and a Prison Break room. Another option is Escapology Orlando, which has rooms such as a Budapest Express train and an Arizona Shootout. Escape rooms are a great way to bond with friends or family and create a unique and memorable experience. Be prepared to think creatively and work together to solve the puzzles and escape the room.
16) Check out the Orlando Eye
The Orlando Eye is one of the most iconic landmarks in Orlando, standing at 400 feet tall. It’s a massive Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including downtown Orlando, theme parks, and the beautiful Florida landscape. You can enjoy this experience during the day, at sunset, or at night when the city lights are on display.
Aside from the views, the Orlando Eye has several other attractions to offer, including the Sea Life Aquarium and Madame Tussauds wax museum. These attractions are perfect for family-friendly fun and offer interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with marine life and their favorite celebrities.
The Orlando Eye also has a dining option, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to sit back, relax, and take in the stunning views while enjoying delicious food and drinks. If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to see Orlando, the Orlando Eye is a must-visit attraction. The beautiful panoramic views of the city and the thrill of being 400 feet up in the air make for an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for all ages.
17) Swim with Dolphins and Sharks
For a truly unique experience, swimming with dolphins in Orlando is a must. These intelligent and friendly animals will provide an unforgettable experience for anyone looking for adventure and fun in the water. Discovery Cove is a popular destination for dolphin swims, where you’ll have the opportunity to interact with these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Trained professionals will guide you through the experience and ensure you’re safe and comfortable while swimming alongside dolphins.
In addition to the swim itself, Discovery Cove also offers a variety of other attractions, including snorkeling, lazy rivers, and feeding exotic birds. There’s even an opportunity to swim with sharks if you’re feeling extra brave! If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to bond with nature and create lasting memories, a dolphin swim in Orlando is a must-try. Just be sure to book in advance, as these experiences tend to fill up quickly! The feeling of swimming alongside dolphins is truly magical. Their intelligence and playfulness are apparent as they gracefully swim around you, and the experience is sure to leave you in awe. It’s not every day that you get the opportunity to connect with these beautiful animals, so take the chance to create a special memory.
For those feeling particularly adventurous, swimming with sharks is an experience like no other. While it may sound scary, trained professionals will ensure your safety as you get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. The adrenaline rush that comes with swimming alongside sharks is a feeling that will stay with you long after the experience is over. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a unique adventure, swimming with dolphins and sharks in Orlando is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed.
18) Go Zip-lining
If you’re feeling adventurous and looking for a unique way to explore Orlando, then zip-lining is the activity for you. Zip-lining gives you an adrenaline rush as you soar through the air and take in the stunning views of the city. There are several places in Orlando where you can experience zip-lining, including Tree Trek Adventure Park and Forever Florida. At Tree Trek Adventure Park, you’ll navigate through obstacle courses and zip lines high up in the trees. There are courses for different levels of difficulty, so it’s a great activity for families or groups.
Forever Florida, on the other hand, offers a thrilling zip-line safari that takes you through a pristine wilderness area. You’ll soar over wetlands and see Florida wildlife up close. The experience is truly unforgettable.
Zip-lining is a great way to get outside, challenge yourself, and have a blast while you’re at it. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a new way to explore Orlando, zip-lining is a must-do activity. As you zip through the air, you’ll feel the wind in your hair and the rush of excitement in your veins. There’s something truly exhilarating about stepping off a platform and flying through the air with nothing but a harness and a cable to guide you. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment as you complete each zip line and obstacle course, and the views from up high will leave you feeling awestruck.
Whether you’re conquering your fear of heights or simply looking for a fun way to spend a day in Orlando, zip-lining is an experience you won’t forget. The rush of adrenaline and the stunning views of the city make it one of the most exciting activities to do in Orlando. So why not give it a try and see for yourself what all the fuss is about? You won’t be disappointed!
19) Take a Ghost Tour
If you’re in the mood for something spooky and supernatural, consider taking a ghost tour in Orlando. These tours will take you to some of the most haunted locations in the city and give you a glimpse into the paranormal. One popular option is the Orlando Ghost Tour, which takes place in the historic downtown area. You’ll hear stories about the ghosts that haunt the streets and buildings, including the former site of a notorious hotel that is said to be home to numerous restless spirits.
Other ghost tours in Orlando include visits to the Greenwood Cemetery and the Oviedo Ghost Tours, which offer a unique twist on the traditional ghost tour by focusing on haunted places outside of the city limits. So if you’re brave enough to face the unknown, take a ghost tour in Orlando and see if you can handle the spooky thrills.
20) See the Kennedy Space Center
For any science and space enthusiast, a visit to the Kennedy Space Center is a must-do activity while in Orlando. The center is home to NASA’s launch operations and houses several historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and space memorabilia. The center has several tours to offer that take visitors to behind-the-scenes locations such as the rocket garden, where you can see actual spacecraft and learn about their stories. You can even get up close to an actual space shuttle and stand under it, looking up at its massive size. It’s a perfect opportunity to take some pictures and experience the feeling of being in space.
The Kennedy Space Center is open seven days a week, and the admission prices start at $57 per adult and $47 per child, and it’s recommended to allow a full day for exploring. You can also watch an actual rocket launch if it’s scheduled during your visit. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s sure to amaze visitors of all ages. One of the best tours at the Kennedy Space Center is the “Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour.”
This tour takes you back in time to the beginning of the space program, where you’ll see the historic launch pads that sent the first astronauts into space. You’ll also visit the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where you can stand next to a massive Saturn V rocket, the same one that launched astronauts to the moon. As you tour the center, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer size and complexity of the rockets and equipment used in space exploration. Seeing the spacesuits and gear worn by astronauts makes you appreciate the bravery and determination it takes to venture out into space.
Overall, the Kennedy Space Center is a fascinating place to visit, full of history, science, and innovation. It’s a perfect destination for families, space enthusiasts, or anyone interested in exploring the mysteries of the universe. A visit here is sure to leave you inspired and filled with a sense of wonder.
21) Take an Airboat Ride
For a unique way to experience the Florida wildlife and scenery, consider taking an airboat ride in Orlando. Glide along the water with a guide and spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. There are several tour operators offering airboat rides, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour or more, and some even offer night tours for a different perspective.
It’s an exhilarating and fun adventure that’s suitable for the whole family and a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sunshine State. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture the incredible sights and sounds of your airboat adventure. As you cruise along the water on the airboat, you’ll feel the refreshing breeze on your face and the adrenaline rush as you spot alligators in their natural habitat. The lush green scenery and serene waters will leave you feeling calm and connected with nature.
Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife like turtles, snakes, and various bird species. Your guide will also provide fascinating information about the local ecosystem, making it an educational experience too. Overall, taking an airboat ride in Orlando is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
22) Go on a Segway Tour
Segway tours are a unique and exciting way to explore the beautiful city of Orlando. The tours are usually guided and offer a thrilling experience as you glide through the city on a personal transporter. You’ll get to see iconic landmarks such as Lake Eola, Orlando City Hall, and Thornton Park, among other attractions.
One of the great things about Segway tours is that they’re suitable for everyone, from beginners to seasoned riders. If you’re new to Segways, don’t worry – you’ll receive comprehensive training on how to use them before embarking on the tour.
A Segway tour allows you to cover more ground and see more sights in a shorter time compared to walking. The tours usually last around two hours and cover a distance of about six miles, depending on the route you take. Plus, it’s a fun and unique way to explore the city. Some tour companies offer themed tours, such as a ghost tour, art tour, and food tour, to cater to different interests. This allows you to enjoy your favorite activities while also exploring the city on a Segway.
Overall, a Segway tour is an exciting and fun way to explore the city of Orlando, and it’s an experience that you shouldn’t miss out on!