For many people, visiting Disney World is a dream vacation. However, nowadays it is becoming increasingly expensive to take your family to all of the parks. The truth is not everyone cares about visiting Mickey and friends or seeing the castle. Orlando has many other activities and attractions besides Disney World and theme parks. If you are visiting Orlando and looking for ways to save money, here are some free and affordable ideas to help you ease the burden on your wallet.
World of Orchids
A World of Orchids, located in Kissimmee is a 22,500 square foot conservatory with a wide variety of plants, exotic birds and fish. Visitors can see a wide variety of flowers from different parts of the world including Southeast Asia, Australia and Indonesia.
Winter Park Popcorn Flicks
How does a free movie sound? Taking the whole family to the movies plus snacks is expensive these days. On the second Thursday of each month, you can take your family to Winter Park to see free family friendly movies including Disney classics.
Old Town
Old Town offers free concerts on Saturday nights. In addition, this attraction also offers a parade of vintage cars, affordable restaurants, 75 shops and 15 amusement park rides.
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is located north of Orlando between Ockalawaha and St. Johns Rivers. This is a great travel destination especially if you enjoy the outdoors and want to get away from the city. Ocala National Forest offers plenty to do including; hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking and bicycling. This is a great destination for families to enjoy and even have a picnic.
Disney’s Boardwalk and Downtown Disney
If you want to experience the Disney atmosphere without paying Disney ticket price, you can visit Disney Boardwalk and Downtown Disney. Disney’s Boardwalk is a recreated 1930’s Atlantic Coastal village which offers nightclubs and entertainment. However, families can enjoy street musicians, performers, and magicians for free. Downtown Disney offers plenty of shops and restaurants that will fit your budget. Unique dining options include Rainforest Café, Planet Hollywood, and Wolfgang Puck Express Marketplace just to name a few. For instance, the Rainforest Café is a jungle theme restaurant with simulated weather patterns and animated animals. This is a great place for animal lovers and offers different food options including vegetarian dishes. There is plenty of entertainment that the entire family can enjoy including Lego Imagination Center, the Festival of the Masters, and glassblowers at Arrabias Brothers.
Sources:
Kimmel, Jeannette. "Free Things to do in Orlando." National Geographic.
"Top 10 Free Things To Do in Orlando." Hotels.
