Free Fun Things to Do in Orlando with Kids

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Year-round sunshine makes Orlando a top spot for family vacations and business travelers. But did you know that Orlando offers many free and family friendly events and venues? Read on to learn the best free fun things to do in Orlando with kids.

Free Things to Do in Orlando

Chances are Orlando is on the radar as your top pick for your next family vacation. One of Orlando’s biggest attraction is its year-round mild weather. And, of course, it is home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Florida, and other family-friendly attractions.  What you might not know is that your budget can get a break with these free things to do in Orlando. The city has many free museums and parks. There are even free things to do in Walt Disney World!

Free Orlando Museums

Orlando’s vibrant arts and cultural community offers plenty of free museum passes, art viewings and tours.

The Cornell Fine Arts Museum

This museum on the campus of Rollins College. It boasts a collection that includes the works of Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso and Thomas Moran, among others. Free admission with any valid student ID.

The Cornell Museum in Orlando offers free admission with any valid student I.D. Photo Credit: Visit Orlando

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

One of the world’s most impressive collections of famed artist Louis Comfort Tiffany is on display here. Free on Fridays from November through April, 4-8 p.m.

The Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts

Take a stroll through history, starting with the author’s humble beginnings. This museum also displays creative works of other artists of African descent. Donations are accepted.

The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida

Get an overview of the history of the Holocaust and see a memorial to victims. The center also hosts many educational events, films and seminars. Donations are accepted.

The Winter Park Historical Museum

This museum houses a photo timeline of the history of Winter Park and features changing themed exhibits.

CityArts Factory

Here you’ll find an eclectic collection of art galleries showcasing local and international artists. Free admission Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Grand Bohemian Gallery in Orlando

These two museums, one in downtown Orlando and one in Celebration, feature a variety of art, including jewelry, glass and sculpture.

Fun Things to Do in Orlando: Free Parks and Nature 

Orlando’s natural beauty and landscape make it a great place for soaking up the sun and enjoying the outdoors. Many of Orlando’s parks and gardens offer free entry on certain days or every day. (Be sure to check the schedule before heading that way!)

Black Hammock Adventures on Lake Jessup

See free live alligator and bird exhibits. The Lazy Gator Bar hosts a deck party every Friday and Saturday night with free live music.

Harry P. Leu Gardens

This museum offers free admission from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the first Monday of the month. Children 4 and under are always free.

Kraft Azalea Gardens

Called Central Florida’s “secret garden,” this 5.22-acre park is located on Lake Maitland in Winter Park and open from 8 a.m. to dusk.

University of Central Florida Arboretum

Home to more than 600 plant species on an 80-acre property. Walk through a self-guided tour to view an impressive number of native plant species.

The Winter Park Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the old train depot. Local vendors and farmers sell their homemade and homegrown specialties, including fruits, vegetables, organic produce, baked goods and more.

Lake Eola Park

This 43-acre recreational area is in the heart of downtown Orlando. Picnic along the shore, enjoy one of the many free concerts at the ampitheater, feed the resident swans or stop by the farmer’s market on Sundays.

Fort Christmas Historical Park

A little slice of old Florida. Visit the fort, the historical homes on site and the gift shop.

Big Tree Park

This park in Sanford features 11 acres of natural vegetation and wetlands.

Camp out and roast marshmallows with Disney characters

Chip n’ Dale at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort for free. Bring your own marshmallows and sticks  (or purchase a s’mores kit from Chuckwagon Snack Bar.) The evening sing-a-long around the campfire includes a viewing of a Disney movie (starts at 7:30 p.m.).