An Orlando vacation can get expensive in a hurry. Between park tickets, parking and food, a family of four can spend a small fortune before lunch. The good news is that Kissimmee and Orlando are full of things that cost little or nothing, and some of them end up being the favorite memory of the trip.
Free Things To Do
1. Kissimmee Lakefront Park
On the shore of Lake Tohopekaliga in downtown Kissimmee, this city park has playgrounds, a splash pad, a long walking path, a fishing pier and picnic pavilions. Come for sunset, which is one of the best free shows in town. Check the City of Kissimmee site for current splash pad hours.
2. Old Town Kissimmee
This open-air entertainment district on W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway (US 192) is free to walk around. Rides, arcade games and food cost extra, but browsing the shops and soaking up the lights is a fun, low-key evening.
3. Disney Springs
You do not need a park ticket to visit Disney Springs, and parking in its garages is free. Window-shop, watch the street performers and enjoy the waterfront. During the holidays, the Christmas tree stroll is a free bonus.
4. Lake Eola Park
Downtown Orlando's signature park has a walking loop around the lake, a playground, the famous fountain and plenty of swans. The swan pedal boats cost extra, but the stroll is free. On Sundays, the farmers market brings food and local vendors.
5. Orlando Wetlands Park
Free admission, free parking and hundreds of alligators. This city-run wetland park in Christmas, Florida is open sunrise to sunset and is a favorite for birders and gator-spotters. See more in our guide to where to see alligators near Orlando.
6. Shingle Creek Regional Park
About 1,000 acres of trails and waterways in Kissimmee, at the headwaters of the Everglades. Walking the trails is free. Kayak and canoe rentals cost extra but are an affordable way to paddle under the cypress trees.
7. The Butterfly Garden At Boggy Creek
Here is a free one most visitors miss. At Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures in Kissimmee, parking is free and you can walk through the butterfly garden at no charge. Feeding the butterflies with nectar costs a little extra. While you are there, you are steps away from our Highland cows.
Cheap Things To Do (Under About $35)
8. Pet And Hand-Feed Highland Cows At Mini Moo Land
Admission to Mini Moo Land is $29.99, or just $19.99 when you add it to an airboat combo. That includes petting, cuddling and hand-feeding our herd of mini Highland cows, with our team guiding every interaction.
9. A 30-Minute Airboat Ride
Boggy Creek's 30-minute airboat tours start at about $34 and are the only rides that do not need a reservation. You will skim across the headwaters of the Everglades looking for alligators, bald eagles and wading birds. Florida residents, seniors, military, first responders and AAA members can get 10% off certain rides. Read our first-timer's airboat guide.
10. Gem Mining
At the Boggy Creek Fossil and Gem Mine, buckets range from $7 to $50. Kids sift through the dirt in a 70-foot water trough and keep every gem and fossil they find. It is self-paced and can easily fill 30 minutes to an hour.
11. The Gator Pond
Boggy Creek's Gator Pond is home to about 35 young alligators, and gator food is sold in the gift shop if you want to see them move. It is a fun stop while you wait for your airboat.
How To Save Money On Orlando Attractions
- Bundle experiences. The 1-hour airboat and Mini Moo Land combo saves $10 compared with booking separately.
- Ask about discounts. Many attractions offer Florida resident, military, senior and AAA pricing.
- Pick places with free parking. Theme park parking alone can cost more than a whole attraction elsewhere. Boggy Creek and Disney Springs both have free parking.
- Pack snacks and water. Most parks and nature areas let you bring your own.
- Go on weekdays. Prices and crowds are often lower than on weekends and holidays.
