Free Family Fun in Orlando Florida

It occurred to me recently that when I’ve written articles in the past about fun places to go to in Orlando Florida for free, transport has been necessary from Orlando. I now realise that not everyone has transport while on vacation in Orlando Florida, so this is article is a guide to free fun in Orlando Florida which can be accessed without the need for hiring a car.

I need to qualify the word “free”. In my book, “free” is any attraction which if not free, costs less than $10 per head admission fee. So include inexpensive places to visit in Orlando Florida in this description.

This article is about some affordable places to go when vacationing in Orlando Florida visiting Orlando city parks and areas of close proximity.

I know most folk will be here to visit the theme parks, but this article is about free places to visit in Orlando which are the many city parks all around the area, all well maintained, all well staffed and patrolled, and all most suitable for a really nice day out for all the family.

So read this free Orlando visitors guide to save wads of cash.

1. Winter Park

This is the downtown shopping area just north of Orlando, with tree lined streets, inviting stores, and street festivals throughout the year.

A tour of the area by boat will give you a good idea of the area, cruise through all the canals and lakes to appreciate the beauty of this historical town. The cost for this tour is my maximum price of $10, kids are half price.

Check out the shopping next in Park Avenue, a real treat with a difference, and then dine at one of the many cafes and restaurants which Winter Park is famous for.

The real gem of Winter Park though is Central Park, right in the center, 11 acres of landscaped gardens, rose gardens and oak tree canopies. Each season brings a new festival to the park, from a sidewalk art festival in the spring, a vintage car festival an autumn art show and a Christmas light show.

2. Lake Eola Park

This is in the heart of Orlando, and another of the many beautiful parks in Orlando, with dramatic views of the city skyline. Feed the swans, watch the fountains dance on the lake, rent a paddle boat, take a cruise in a gondola or just stroll through the 43 acres of relaxing grounds.

This park also hosts special events throughout the year, such as a free 2 day live music festival, the Juneteenth Celebration which is the anniversary of 1865 when Texan slaves were freed, 4^th July fireworks display and the celebration in the fall. The park also has an amphitheatre, a jogging track and plenty of play equipment for the kids.

This is the Orlando for locals too, as a Farmers Market is held here every Sunday, a great way to relax the day away by people watching. This may be a great opportunity to buy gifts to take home, as there are many more stalls other than fresh produce, such as pottery, jewellery, stained glass and lots more arts, crafts and unique items as well as food and beverages.

3. Loch Haven Park

Close to Florida Hospital Orlando, this beautiful park is surrounded by 3 lakes in 45 acres with several museums nearby and plays host to the International Fringe Festival.

Mid way between Winter Park and Lake Eola Park, Lock Haven Park has many large oak trees to offer the visitor shelter from the heat of the sun, with beautiful sidewalks and magnificent sculptures.

Museums and such may not be your thing, but believe me, on a hot a sticky afternoon during one of those thunderstorms with heavy rain lasting for half an hour or more, you will be glad to go here to look around until the storm passes. Who knows, like me, you may find something which you never knew would interest you.

Like most of the other Orlando City Parks mentioned here, this park has also got a program of events throughout the year.

4. Harry P. Leu Gardens

In 50 acres on the opposite shores of Lake Rowena to Loch Haven Park this park has 3 miles of walkway, a butterfly garden, big old oak trees, camphors, palms cicadas and camellias, a rose garden and more.

This park is also located in downtown Orlando in one of the most secluded and beautiful areas in Orlando. With a botanical garden, there is something here to keep the whole family entertained. Admission is free before 12 noon, otherwise $7 adults $2 for kids.

Harry P. Leu Gardens is located just north of Colonial Drive (Highway 50) to the east of I.4. There is an active program of events throughout the summer months, facility rental, and you can even get married here.

5. Turkey Lake Park.

With an entry fee of just $4 per car, this park is very near to Universal Studios. This 300 acre park has a large swimming pool, plenty of picnic tables, a hiking trail, nature trails, bike path, fishing from a pier and camping, play areas and sandy beaches.

Camp here for just $7 nightly, rent a 10 person cabin for just $35 nightly, park your RV for $15 or hire a boat for $15.