Creature Features

How does an alligator road trip sound? Head to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Trail and experience real Florida. You will discover loads of gators, birds, turtles, and fish to see on this free 11-mile nature drive. So, roll down the windows, turn down the radio, and take in the view. The trail is open Friday through Sunday only.

Here is something else your family will go wild over. Take them to the crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring State Park for a sight they will never forget, with 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.

Need a “paws” after all the amusement rides? For the price of a cup of coffee, the kiddies can canoodle with kittens at Orlando Cat Cafe. Located just four miles from Disney’s Animal Kingdom^® Theme Park, this hangout for cool cats requires reservations, where you will usually find 12 to 20 felines ready to meet and greet on any given day. Premium teas, pastries, paninis, and coffee are served throughout the day.

Water Escapes

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. Your 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.

And while you are on the subject of water, the Swans on Lake Eola belong 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. Craving a little exercise? Go for a 30-minute spin around the lake in a swan-shaped paddleboat.

Of course, you can always hit the beach for an affordable day out. Just an hour away is Florida’s iconic Cocoa Beach. There is 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 Water Park 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.

Smart Family Fun

So, where else can you take the kids that will not 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.

How about grabbing a seat on the Orlando StarFlyer for a 450-foot thrill ride you will never forget?

Then there is this: pile the kids into the back of your SUV and head to Lakeland for a throwback family outing that is sure to please. As one of only four drive-ins left in the state, the Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre shows first-run movies with double features every night of the week.

Tasty Treats

Who wants pancakes? The batter is 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. They are served with maple syrup, molasses, and honey.

The massive, handmade cookies found at Gideon’s Bakehouse are not just a must-see, they are a must-have. Stuffed to the max, made from scratch, and weighing in at a half-pound each.

This is proof that big fun does not have to come with a big price tag. Make no mistake—this is only a start. There are plenty of ways to create priceless vacation memories in Orlando.