Orlando isn’t just the most visited tourism destination in the United States because of its world-class theme parks, famed eateries and sprawling resorts. Thanks to scores of affordable and unique experiences, it’s also a top-value destination. In fact, Orlando ranked among the 18 Cheapest Places to Travel, according to Kayak.

Orlando offers multiple free and cost-effective activities for $30 or less, including museums, parks, boat rides, festivals, markets, go-karts and more. Additionally, buying tickets online ahead of time for top attractions and experiences from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com, Visit Orlando’s official ticket website, can be a big money saver.

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Theme Parks and Attractions

  • Disney Springs: With a nod to Central Florida’s refreshing natural springs, this outdoor escape features 120 acres of unique boutiques, award-winning restaurants and lively entertainment. Relax by the water, stroll through shops, make fun memories and take plenty of selfies. Every Saturday, families can join in the fun at the Disney Springs Kids Club, a free experience featuring interactive entertainment for all ages located at The Landing.
     
  • Disney’s Boardwalk: Located within walking distance of EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios and inspired by a charming, turn-of-the-20th-century Atlantic City, Disney’s BoardWalk features free admission to enjoy a stroll along a Coney Island-style boardwalk and enjoy complimentary evening entertainment that includes jugglers, comedians and even fire-eaters. Like Disney Springs, it’s connected to Disney’s complimentary ferry system via the adjacent Disney’s BoardWalk Villas.
     
  • ICON Park: Home to a variety of restaurants, bars and attractions, there is no charge to enjoy the entertainment complex, which also includes free parking on select garage floors. The grassy area in the middle is perfect for relaxing with the family or an epic Instagram shot with The Orlando Eye in the background (the 400-foot observation wheel that towers over International Drive). Purchase required for admission to onsite attractions.
     
  • Universal CityWalk: This action-packed hotspot features an eclectic mix of themed restaurants, nightclubs, a movie theater, shopping and non-stop entertainment. Plus, parking is free after 6 p.m. (except during Halloween Horror Nights). Take in the sights and sounds and then board the free water taxi service to cruise canals that meander throughout Universal Orlando Resort. Hop off to explore the resorts and entertainment along the way, including Musica della Notte, a free evening of music at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.

Entertainment, Parks & Recreation

  • Boxi Park: Located in Lake Nona’s Town Center, this fun open-air spot is constructed entirely from repurposed shipping containers. Its shady green spaces are perfect for lounging and listening to live music, including a playground and two beach volleyball courts. Dogs are welcome throughout the park, especially in Barxi Park, the onsite dog park.
     
  • Lake Eola Park: Visitors can picnic along the shore, enjoy a free concert at the amphitheater, feed the swans and celebrate holidays in Orlando’s picturesque downtown park. On Sunday mornings, there’s free outdoor yoga, and the Orlando Farmer’s Market offers seasonal farm fresh produce from local growers, as well as baked goods, cheeses and other specialty foods.
     
  • Lake Nona Sculpture Garden: The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, a 50,000-square-foot outdoor space located adjacent to the newly opened Lake Nona Wave Hotel, features lush landscaping and a collection of world-renowned sculptures, including one of the most recognized in the world, the Charging Bull by Arturo di Modica.
     
  • Old Town: Minutes from Walt Disney World Resort, Old Town re-creates the look and feel of a classic Florida town with 18 acres of tree-lined brick streets that are home to more than 70 affordable shops and restaurants. Best of all, admission is free — as are weekly events such as classic car shows and live music.
     
  • USTA National Campus: The USTA National Campus in Lake Nona offers an exciting way to enjoy tennis with top-notch facilities, a full agenda of tennis events and 100 fully lit courts. Family Zone 60' and 36' courts are available at no charge when programming isn’t scheduled. Newbies who’ve never participated in USTA programming can enjoy a free 30-minute lesson for tennis, pickleball or padel.

Arts, Culture & History

  • Rollins Museum of Art: Located on the gorgeous campus of Rollins College in Winter Park, this museum features one of the oldest and most distinguished art collections in Florida, including more than 5,000 objects ranging from antique to contemporary. Admission is free year-round.
     
  • Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts: The community of Eatonville – the oldest incorporated African American municipality in the U.S. – is the hometown of writer, activist and anthropologist, Zora Neale Hurston. The museum offers free admission and provides a place where the public can view art that celebrates the life and accomplishments of the famous Florida novelist.
     
  • Hannibal Square Heritage Center: Located in Winter Park’s Hannibal Square, the Hannibal Square Heritage Center was established in 2007 by Crealdé School of Art, in partnership with residents from the Hannibal Square community and the City of Winter Park, as a tribute to the past, present, and future contributions of Winter Park’s historic African-American community.
     
  • Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida: Established in 1981, the Center has become an invaluable resource in Central Florida, offering internationally recognized educational programs, cultural exhibits, and events that reflect on the history and lessons of the Holocaust. Admission is free and donations are welcome.
     
  • CityArts Orlando: Located in Downtown Orlando, this contemporary art space contains seven art galleries, an in-house cafe, as well as presentation and event spaces. Admission is free year-round.
     
  • Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture: Formerly the Wells’ Built Hotel, this museum houses memorabilia of Orlando’s African American community and displays on the civil rights movement. The museum is located in downtown Orlando’s Parramore District and admission is free.

Wineries & Breweries

  • Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards: Orlando’s largest premium winery offers free tours with tastings daily. Lasting about 30-40 minutes, the tours take wine enthusiasts through the production area and provide a view of the 80-acre vineyards. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards also hosts free summer and winter music series, as well as a free open house during the holidays.

 

$15 OR LESS PER PERSON

  • Fun Spot America: Presenting family-friendly, amusement-park fun at its I-Drive and Kissimmee locations, Fun Spot America offers a-la-carte pricing via the pay-as-you-go Fun E-Card. What’s more, many attractions at both locations are $7 to $12 each, and admission is always free. For a full day of Fun Spot, single-day passes include unlimited rides and are available from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com for $52.81.
     
  • Harry P. Leu Gardens: This beautiful 50-acre botanical oasis is located just minutes from downtown Orlando. Each garden is designed specifically to further its mission: to inspire visitors to appreciate and understand plants. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for children (ages 4-17) and active/retired military personnel and free for children ages under 4.
     
  • Orlando StarFlyer: Located at ICON Park, the Orlando StarFlyer stands 450 feet tall, making it the world’s tallest swing ride, and invites you to soar at speeds up to 45 mph. Tickets cost $10.96 when purchased from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com. Same day return rides are $8.45 each.
     
  • Lake Eola Park Swan Boat Rentals: In the heart of downtown Orlando, swan boats at Lake Eola Park are $15 per boat, for up to five guests, for 30 minutes of pure pedal-powered fun. Guests can view the park, surrounding cityscape and the iconic Lake Eola fountain up close Tuesday through Sunday.
     
  • The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art: Located in scenic Winter Park, this museum displays the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his famous lamps, art glass, pottery and jewelry. It is open to the public at no charge on Fridays from 4-8 p.m. (from November to April) and certain holidays, and always free for children 12 and under. Regular price is only $6 for adults, $5 for seniors (60+), and $1 for students with valid ID. Kids under 12 are free.
     
  • Mennello Museum of American Art: Close to downtown Orlando in Loch Haven Park, view artist Earl Cunningham’s creations and contemporary American folk art at The Mennello Museum of American Art. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors (60+), and $3 for students with valid ID and children ages 6-17. Admission is free for kids under 6, and for active and retired military personnel and their families. Plus, every second Sunday of the month is Free Family Fun Day.
     
  • Orange County Regional History Center: At this Smithsonian Institution affiliate in downtown Orlando, explore 12,000 years of Central Florida history through a variety of exhibits and programs spread over four floors of a historic, 1927 courthouse. Pricing for the Orange County Regional History Center is $10 for adults; $7 for students and military with valid ID; $8 for seniors (55+); $6 for kids ages 5-12; and free for children under 5. Admission is free every third Thursday of the month from 5-8 p.m.
     
  • West Orange Trail Bikes and Blades Co.: With hourly, daily and weekly road bike rentals, visitors can explore the 24-mile West Orange Trail. Guided tours along the West Orange Trail and Central Florida’s historical towns are also available. Rentals start at $10 per hour.
     
  • VoiceMap: Orlando’s Historical Highlights Walking Tour: Meet the cattle barons, citrus farmers, gunslingers and NASA engineers who put Orlando on the map long before Walt Disney came to town. Presented by VoiceMap for Apple and Android devices and priced at $7.99, the tour will guide you past established landmarks such as the Orlando Public Library, Lake Eola Park and Church Street Station, as well as numerous downtown restaurants and bars.
     
  • Orlando’s Natural Springs: Dive into the natural world of Central Florida’s crystal-blue, freshwater sprigs where swimming, hiking, and wildlife — including manatees — await. Standouts such as Blue Spring State Park, De Leon Springs State Park, Rock Springs Run State Preserve at Kelly Park, and Wekiwa Springs State Park are within an hour north of Orlando’s core. Entry starts at $6 per vehicle.
     

$20 OR LESS PER PERSON

  • In the Game ICON Park: In addition to numerous affordably priced games — most of which will cost less than $5 — this indoor attraction also has a mirror maze, escape room, X-D motion theater and virtual-reality experience, all priced starting at $12.
     
  • Kings Dining & Entertainment: Guests can bowl, eat and lounge in a comfortable, fun environment. This I-Drive attraction also features billiards tables, foosball, an outdoor bocce court and other entertainment options. Standard bowling rates start at $19 per person.
     
  • Fringe ArtSpace: New to downtown Orlando’s Church Street District, this venue provides a physical home for Orlando Fringe, a pillar of the Orlando arts community. It is a space where guests can view traditional theatre designed for art makers and art lovers. Tickets are typically priced at $20 or less.  
     
  • Orlando Museum of Art: Along with showcasing local, national and international works of art, the museum has a discovery center for children. Admission is $20 for adults, $12 for seniors (65+), $10 for college students with valid ID and $8 for children ages 6-17. Children ages 5 and under are free, as are active and retired military personnel.
     
  • Pirates Cove Adventure Golf: Play this 18-hole miniature golf experience in a pirate-themed setting. Pricing for the I-Drive course: $17.45 per adult, $15.29 for children ages 4-12 and free for children ages 3 and under when purchased from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com. There’s also Congo River Golf in Kissimmee ($18.29 10+/$16.36 under 10 for 18 holes).
     
  • Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour: A relaxing narrated cruise through the lakes and canals of historic Winter Park, this peaceful boat tour showcases natural wildlife and mansions that line the waterways. Admission is $20 per adult and $10 for children ages 2-11.
     
  • Numerous venues and performing arts organizations in Orlando present affordably priced theater, concerts, comedy and more. Places where you can usually count on tickets priced at $20 or less include Judson’s Live at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and SAK Comedy Lab both in downtown’s City District. Along with The Timucua Arts Foundation, which is part of Orlando’s SODO Main Street District.
     
  • Green Meadows Petting Farm: Visitors can enjoy the 50-acre farm by taking a scenic hayride or interacting with hundreds of live animals including alpacas, bunnies, cows, goats and pigs. General admission is $18 and special group discounts for parties 10 and up may apply.

 

$30 OR LESS PER PERSON

  • Andretti Indoor Karting & Games: Visitors can enjoy indoor kart racing in a climate-controlled track full of turns and high speed. Other activities range from laser tag and a ropes course to classic arcade games. Most activities are under $25, with adult races costing $22.50 when purchased from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com. For children ages 7-14 and at least 48 inches tall, junior races are $14.21 via Visit Orlando. Additional discount packages are also available.
     
  • Activate: Become the player in the world’s first active gaming facility, located at Pointe Orlando. Jump, climb, problem-solve and laugh while moving through high-energy game rooms powered by interactive technology. Admission is $30 per hour of play.
     
  • Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: See more than 500 animals, including rare and endangered species, as well as 23 acres of lush natural beauty. When purchased online, admission starts at $21.95 for adults, $17.95 for seniors (55+), $16.95 for children ages 3-12 and free for kids under 3.
     
  • Chocolate Kingdom: Located on International Drive, the 45-minute Factory Adventure Tour shows how a small bean transforms into the beloved creamy chocolate bar, with many free samples along the way. Tickets are $24 for adults, $20 for children 4-12 and free for kids under 4.    
     
  • Hollywood Drive-In Golf: Located at Universal CityWalk, the 18-hole courses are inspired by the 1950’s era and based on vintage horror flicks and “little green men” science fiction films. Pricing starts at $22.99 for ages 10+ and $20.99 under 10.
     
  • The Orlando Eye at ICON Park: One of Orlando’s most iconic attractions is also one of its most affordable with tickets costing $29.99 for adults and $24.99 for children ages 2-12 when purchased online. Providing a 20-minute, air-conditioned ride with spectacular views from 400 feet up, The Orlando Eye is considered an Insta-worthy rite of passage for many visitors.
     
  • Crayola Experience Orlando: Located at The Florida Mall, the two-story attraction provides a full day of creative, colorful fun with dozens of hands-on activities, including drip art, a color playground and much more. When purchased from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com, tickets to this family attraction are $27.01 each.
     
  • Dezerland Park: On top of free admission, Dezerland Park is Orlando’s largest indoor entertainment center with a ton of attractions that won’t set you back more than $29 each, including Karting Orlando ($26.95 for adult races), Jump Start Trampoline Park ($24.95 for an hour), The Pinball Palace ($26.63 for pinball all day), and affordably priced games at Arcade Orlando, plus other ways to play.
     
  • Gatorland: Founded in 1949, Gatorland is one of Orlando’s longest-running attractions, featuring 110 acres with thousands of alligators and crocodiles, plus a flight aviary, petting zoo, nature walk, splash pad play area, Bobcat Bayou and more. Regular admission is priced at $28.22 per adult and $20.69 for children ages 3 to 12 when purchased from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com. Kids under 3 are free.
     
  • Madame Tussauds Orlando: This is the only place in town where visitors can shoot hoops with Shaq, party with Pitbull, step on the moon with Neil Armstrong and meet DC Entertainment’s Justice League. Adult admission is $28.59 when purchased from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com, and $23.82 for children ages 3-12; kids under 3 get in free.
     
  • Main Event: Part of the open-air Pointe Orlando dining and entertainment complex on I-Drive, this is the place to eat, bowl and play. Prices start at $18.99 when purchased before 1 p.m., and $22.99 after. This covers the All You Can Play Activity Pass, which covers bowling, laser tag, billiards, virtual reality gaming and more.
  • Museum of Illusions Orlando: Located at ICON Park, this brain-bending “edutainment” experience has more than 50 incredible exhibits that are guaranteed to trick your eyes and blow your mind. Admission starts at $23.99 for adults and $20.99 for children ages 4-12 when purchased online.
     
  • Orlando Science Center: Offering 11,000 square feet of hands-on educational fun for kids and their families, the Orlando Science Center is one of Orlando’s premier STEAM attractions ranging from a brand-new nature and conservation exhibit called Life – where guests can come face to face with select wildlife – to DinoDigs – where kids can find fossils – and more. Admission is $29 for adults, $27 for students and seniors with ID, $22 for children ages 2-11, and free for OSC members and kids under 2.
     
  • Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course offers FootGolf, a sport that combines the patient precision of golf with the athletic coordination of soccer. Admission starts at $25 for a group of up to four players.
     
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Interactive exhibits and artifacts can be discovered at this famous I-Drive attraction, which celebrates oddities from around the world … and appears to be falling into a massive sinkhole. Admission is $27.99 for adults and $19.99 for children ages 3-11. Kids under 3 are free. Meanwhile, the new Ripley’s Mirror Maze attraction next door is $16.99 for adults and $12.99 for children ages 3-11.
     
  • SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Step beneath the waves courtesy of a 360-degree ocean tunnel, and come face-to-fin with sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and other amazing creatures. Tickets for adults are $28.59 when purchased from Visit Orlando, and $23.82 for children.

 

About Visit Orlando

Visit Orlando is The Official Tourism Association® for Orlando, the most visited destination in the United States, Theme Park Capital of the World® and No. 1 meeting destination in the country. A not-for-profit trade association that brands, markets and sells the Orlando destination globally, we represent more than 1,400 member companies comprising every segment of Central Florida’s tourism community.

Visit Orlando connects consumers and business groups with all facets of Orlando’s travel community, whether for a vacation or meeting. Home to seven of the world’s top theme parks — as well as refreshing water parks, activities to connect with nature, vibrant neighborhoods, a dynamic dining scene with Michelin recognized restaurants, and a robust calendar of entertainment and sports events — Orlando is a diverse, welcoming and inclusive community for all travelers. Find more information at VisitOrlando.com or OrlandoMeeting.com.

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please visit VisitOrlando.com/media