Best Free Things to Do with Kids in Orlando This Weekend

Orlando has long held a reputation as one of the top destinations for families. While many travelers associate it with theme parks and pricey attractions, there’s a whole side to the city that offers fun without breaking the bank. For families looking to stay within budget, a surprising number of free experiences can keep kids entertained and engaged.

Expect plenty of timeless activities, green spaces, trails, outdoor entertainment, cultural centers, and vibrant districts that welcome families without admission fees.

These options are available year-round and are perfect for both residents and visitors.

1. Lake Eola Park

Nestled in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park serves as a beloved weekend spot for families. While swan boat rentals cost a fee, everything else around the lake is free to enjoy. Kids can climb and play in the spacious playgrounds, and parents can enjoy scenic strolls on the paved loop circling the water.

Movieola events transform the park into a movie theater under the stars on select Fridays. Families can bring blankets and snacks to enjoy family-friendly films on the grass.

Various free festivals and farmers markets also pop up regularly, adding even more energy to the experience.

2. West Orange Trail

Stretching over 20 miles through Central Florida, West Orange Trail is a favorite for outdoor-loving families. Paved paths accommodate walkers, joggers, bikers, and skaters.

Throughout the trail, small parks and playgrounds create perfect stops for energetic kids.

Scenic resting areas with benches, water fountains, and shaded spaces allow for relaxing breaks. Some trailheads have picnic facilities, so bringing a packed lunch makes for a full day outdoors.

3. Nature Preserves & Parks

Orlando’s connection to natural spaces provides a welcome contrast to the fast pace of theme parks. Tibet-Butler Preserve features flat trails winding through wetlands and forests where kids can spot birds, turtles, and butterflies.

Split Oak Forest and Ocala National Forest also provide wide-open exploration opportunities for families who want more rustic nature experiences.

Closer to the city, spots like Mead Botanical Garden and Kraft Azalea Garden offer lush environments for walking and picnicking. Dr. P. Phillips Community Park combines nature with splash pads and playgrounds—perfect for hot days.

4. ICON Park (General Access)

ICON Park, known for its giant observation wheel, offers more than just rides. Entrance is free, making it a lively spot to walk around, window shop, or enjoy evening energy.

Families can watch the nightly light show on The Wheel and take photos with fun displays and street performers.

Dining areas have outdoor seating where kids can relax and parents can sip coffee or grab a bite. On weekends, pop-up events and performers often add to the excitement.

5. Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art (Select Free Days)

Families with an interest in art and creativity will find inspiration at the Morse Museum in Winter Park. Best known for its extensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, the museum offers select free admission days throughout the year.

Kids can see vibrant stained glass windows, intricate lamps, and historical American decorative arts that often spark curiosity and conversation.

Free Friday nights during certain months offer a peaceful yet enriching way to introduce children to fine art without the usual museum hush. The museum also provides educational brochures and a calm setting ideal for relaxed exploration.

6. Hannibal Square Heritage Center

Hannibal Square Heritage Center provides a deeply moving experience centered around African American history in Central Florida.

Through art, photography, and personal stories, the center highlights community figures who helped shape the region.

Children and adults alike can gain perspective through oral histories and exhibitions filled with emotion and pride. The space is small, making it a manageable and accessible stop for families looking for thoughtful, educational moments.

7. Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

While not entirely free, the Audubon Center’s affordable admission and educational impact make it worth mentioning.

Families can meet rescued raptors, including hawks, owls, and bald eagles. Kids often find the up-close encounters memorable and empowering, especially with the self-guided tour format.

The peaceful lakeside setting provides room to walk and observe nature. Educational signs and staff members help spark interest in wildlife conservation.

8. CityArts & Lake Nona Sculpture Garden

Orlando’s public art spaces combine creativity with free access. CityArts, located downtown, features rotating exhibits by local and international artists.

Entry is free, and the artwork varies from traditional to experimental, offering something different on every visit.

Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, on the other hand, brings kids outdoors to experience large-scale sculptures and peaceful walking paths surrounded by native plants. The garden’s open layout allows for freedom of movement while engaging with large works of art.

9. Disney Springs

Disney Springs welcomes everyone without requiring park tickets. Families can enjoy an open-air shopping and entertainment district that buzzes with music, fountains, and fun.

Kids love splashing in interactive water zones or building creations at the LEGO Store’s outdoor play area.

Live performances often pop up, ranging from acoustic musicians to dance troupes. With free parking and no entrance fee, it’s a go-to spot for low-cost Disney magic.

10. Old Town in Kissimmee

Old Town provides a nostalgic slice of Americana perfect for weekend outings. Families gather for weekly classic car shows and live music events that are free to attend.

Kids can marvel at rows of colorful vintage cars while dancing to upbeat tunes on the outdoor stage.

Shops and eateries line the pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to stroll while grabbing a free sample or photo. There’s plenty of seating for parents who want to relax as kids soak in the energy.

11. Sunset Walk (Margaritaville Resort Orlando)

Sunset Walk is gaining momentum as one of Orlando’s top spots for family fun. The district hosts free outdoor concerts and family events almost every weekend.

Wide open spaces make it ideal for kids to move around safely while parents enjoy the entertainment.

During holidays or seasonal events, Sunset Walk becomes even more animated with costumed characters, themed shows, and festive decor. Food trucks and casual restaurants round out the experience without requiring a big budget.

12. Universal CityWalk (Free After 6 PM)

CityWalk, Universal’s entertainment strip, becomes more accessible in the evenings. After 6 PM, parking is free, and families can enjoy energetic street music, glowing fountains, and people-watching with a backdrop of neon lights.

Kids often love the dancing DJ parties near the entrance or hopping aboard a free water taxi. Colorful photo spots and upbeat energy keep the mood light and festive.

The Bottom Line

Orlando has so much more to offer families than theme park rides and ticket lines. Weekends don’t have to be expensive to be unforgettable.

With nature trails, free entertainment districts, outdoor movies, and cultural gems, there’s no shortage of options for kids to play, learn, and enjoy.

Local gems wait around every corner, making memory-making easy and cost-free. A little planning turns any Orlando weekend into an adventure, no admission fees necessary.