Orlando is a great city for college students, with plenty of things to do that won’t break the bank. In this guide, we’ll share some of our top picks for free things to do in Orlando. From parks and museums to food and drink specials, there’s something for everyone! So whether you’re looking to explore or just relax, be sure to check out our list of free things to do in Orlando. Happy exploring!
Visit one of Orlando’s many free museums
Orlando is a great destination for college students on a budget who are looking for a fun and enjoyable experience. College students in Orlando have a variety of free museum options at their disposal. Here are some of the museums that offer free admission to college students:
- Orange County Regional History Center — At the Orange County Regional History Center, you can explore the past 12,000 years of Central Florida’s history through immersive exhibitions and interactive activities.
- Mennello Museum of American Art — The Mennello Museum of American Art specializes in folk art, showcasing works by Earl Cunningham and other artists. Don’t miss out on these amazing opportunities to dive into Orlando’s culture!
- Rollins Museum of Art — The Rollins Museum of Art, located on the lush campus of Rollins College, is a must-see for any art lover.
- Heroes & Legends Attraction — The Heroes & Legends Attraction is a Smithsonian affiliate and features the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, where you can explore the lives and accomplishments of some of the most important heroes in American history.
- Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens — The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens is one of the oldest art museums in Central Florida, featuring artwork from local and international artists.
- Morse Museum of Modern Art — The Morse Museum of Modern Art is home to an impressive collection of modern art from around the world.
- Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center — The Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center showcases Cuban art and culture. Visitors can explore a wide range of artwork and artifacts, as well as participate in educational programming and cultural experiences.
- The Light Room Photography Exhibit — The Light Room Photography Exhibit is an interactive display of photographs from around the world. It’s a great place to learn about photography.
Stroll through one of the city’s beautiful parks
With so many fun things to do in Orlando, it’s easy to forget that you can also enjoy the great outdoors. For those looking for some much-needed rest and relaxation, spending an afternoon strolling through one of the city’s beautiful parks is a great way to relax while taking in some of nature’s beauty.
Lake Eola Park is a picturesque escape with an iconic waterfront amphitheatre, while Mead Botanical Garden has vast open spaces amidst a subtropical landscape -– both perfect for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. On top of that, they are both free to visit!
Check out a free concert or performance
For those looking for a night of entertainment without the hefty price tag, Orlando has plenty to offer.
The Walt Disney Amphitheater and the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre are two great venues that frequently feature free performances. From touristy Cirque du Soleil shows to indie music showcases, there is something for everyone at these awesome venues. Plus, it’s a great way to get out of the house and explore all that Orlando has to offer, even on a tight budget!
Take a walk or ride your bike around scenic downtown Orlando
For college students in Orlando looking for a good way to spend some time without breaking the bank, there are plenty of attractions that won’t cost you a single dime. Taking a walk or riding your bike around scenic downtown Orlando is one way to soak in the city and see what it has to offer. The city has plenty of options for you to explore — from sweeping river views and lush parks to beautiful buildings and bustling boutiques.
Spend an afternoon exploring one of Orlando’s unique neighborhoods
For a cheap afternoon exploring Orlando, why not plan a visit to one of the city’s diverse neighborhoods?
The vibrancy and character of places like Thornton Park and College Park can make even the tightest budget seem irrelevant. These unique areas have a huge range of attractions that won’t break the bank, including independent restaurants, boutique stores, and community events – it’s no wonder that people flock there for an afternoon of fun. So pack your bag (and your wallet) and head to one of these great neighborhoods — you might even find some hidden treasures on your journey.
Walk around Disney Springs
There are lots of free activities to enjoy at Disney Springs (formerly, Downtown Disney). Here are some ideas:
- Enjoy exploring the many shops at Disney Springs
- Get some free chocolate samples at the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop
- Catch a free performance of the Gospel Choir at House of Blues
- Play with Lego at the Lego Store — create your own Lego racer and race against others
- Take a walk along one of the scenic pathways for a beautiful view of the lakefront
- Watch live entertainment at the amphitheater or one of the performance stages throughout Disney Springs
- Check out the art installations throughout Disney Springs
- Relax with a movie in The Starlight Cinema, an open air screening space
Conclusion
Orlando is a great city for broke college students because there are so many free things to do! Whether you’re interested in museums, parks, concerts, or food, you’ll be able to find something to do that won’t break the bank. So the next time you’re looking for something fun to do on a budget, be sure to check out one of these free activities in Orlando!
For more useful articles and tools to help you save money on everything you buy and budget travel, check here.
