Some of the More Amusing Things to Do on the Cheap in Orlando

Kids looking forward to their time with Mickey and you’re on the hunt for some cheap things to do to fill out the fun? Here are some Trav Tips on what not to miss.

Creature Features

How’s an alligator road trip sound? Yeah, thought so. Head to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Trail and experience REAL Florida. There are loads of gators, birds, turtles, and fish to see on this free (yes, free) 11-mile nature drive. So, roll down the windows, turn down the radio, and take in the view. Open Friday – Sunday only.

Here’s something else the family will go wild over. Take them to the crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring State Park for a sight they’ll never forget: hundreds of manatees in their natural habitat. A boardwalk with observation bridges offers you and the kids a chance to watch these gentle sea creatures and their babies as they swim, socialize, and even snooze. You and your carload of kids can get in for $6 for the day.

Need a “paws” after all the amusement rides? For the price of a cup of Joe, the kiddies can canoodle with kittens at Orlando’s Cat Cafe. Located just four miles from Disney’s Animal Kingdom^®, this hangout for cool cats (usually you’ll find 12-20 ready to meet and greet on any given day) requires reservations. Premium teas, pastries, paninis, and coffee are served throughout the day. It’s only $10 for one hour of petting and play.

Splash for Less Cash

Think the less you pay, the more watered down your options are? Think again. The natural oasis just miles from downtown Orlando at Wekiwa Springs is bubbling over with fun. The family can chill in the spring’s cool, clear water—it’s a pool-perfect 72 degrees year-round. Or, opt to explore the lush grounds that come with tons of trails and outdoor activities. Either way, the price is just $6 per carload.

And while we’re on the subject of water, the Swans on Lake Eola have got to be on your budget bucket list. You can take a stroll around the lake’s paved walkway and admire these beauties from shore or choose to feed them for 25 cents a pop. Craving a little exercise? Go for a 30-minute spin around the lake in a swan-shaped pedal boat for $15.

Of course, you can always hit the beach for a cheap day out. Just an hour away is Florida’s iconic Cocoa Beach. There’s parking, picnic benches, restrooms, showers, and plenty of sand and surf. All you have to spring for is the gas.

You can also just grab a towel and head over to our own River Island Waterpark at Orange Lake Resort. You and the kids can bob down the lazy river, take a dip in the pool, or zip down the waterslides without ever leaving the grounds.

Wheelie Inexpensive Fun

So, where else to take the kids that isn’t going to cost a lot? Consider giving Semoran Skateway in Casselberry a whirl. This retro roller rink offers daily deals and special events like “Old Skool Jams” on Saturday nights and “Family Fun Night” on Tuesdays. Prices run about $9 per skater most days.

How about grabbing a seat on the Orlando StarFlyer Tower for a 450-foot thrill ride you’ll never forget? If you’re afraid the ticket price will hold you back, don’t worry—this spin will only set you back around $9 to $13.

Then there’s this: pile the kids into the back of your SUV and head to Lakeland for a throwback family outing that’s sure to please. Only one of four drive-ins left in the state, the Silver Moon Theatre shows first-run movies with double features every night of the week. Admission is free for guests under the age of four, $3 for guests aged 4-9, and $8 for anyone over the age of 10.

Other Ways to Save Some Dough

Who wants pancakes? The batter’s up at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Pancake House inside De Leon Springs State Park, where you and the kids can cook your own pancakes with yummy add-ons and toppings while sitting at your table. The price for these all-you-can-eat pancake stacks is $7.99. They’re served with maple syrup, molasses, and honey.

The massive, handmade cookies found at Gideon’s™ Bakehouse in East End Market aren’t just a must-see, they’re a must-have. Stuffed to the max, made from scratch, and weighing in at a half-pound each, these ah-mazing cookies may be hefty, but the price isn’t. Each is just $6.

There you have it. Proof big fun doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. But make no mistake—this is only a start. There are plenty more ways to create priceLESS vacation memories in Orlando.

Any information provided is solely as a courtesy and is not due to compensation or business partnerships with Holiday Inn Club Vacations^®. Prices subject to change.