We’re almost midway through the summer, which might mean you’re running out of ideas to keep the kiddos busy without breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve put together a refresher on all things kid-friendly in Orlando that are nowhere near the price of a Disney World ticket.
From kayaking to outdoor movie nights to pirate golf, all the activities listed are $18 or less, making for some easily achievable summer fun.
Winter Garden Splash Pad
119 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden
Orlando may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean we all don’t deserve to cool off with some fun waterworks. There are plenty of local (and free!) splash pads that welcome kids throughout the Orlando area, just like this one in Winter Garden. Credit: Photo via Downtown Winter GardenOrlando Farmers Market
20 N. Eola Drive, Orlando
The Orlando Farmers Market happens every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lake Eola Park. While the youngsters might not appreciate the fresh seasonal produce on offer, they’ll also have the chance to check out plenty of kid-friendly sweets and treats. Credit: Photo via Orlando Farmers Market/InstagramLake Eola Swan Boats
195 N. Rosalind Ave., Orlando
Take the kiddos for a ride around Lake Eola in style. A $15 ticket will get you 30 minutes of swan time. Credit: Photo via Lake Eola Park/FacebookGrayton Beach State Park
357 Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach
Looking for somewhere to camp at night and paddleboard, canoe or kayak during the day? Grayton Beach State Park is nearly 2,000 acres and consists of 59 camping sites. Visitors can bring their RVs or tents, and campers have the option to stay overnight in modern cabins or full-facilities campgrounds. Credit:Photo via Grayton Beach State Park/Florida State ParksOrange County Regional History Center65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando
Not only is it inexpensive, the Orange County Regional History Center will keep children busy for hours on end — with educational fun! Admission is $8 per adult and $6 per child under 12 years old, but on the third Thursday of each month, admission is free from 5 to 8 p.m. Credit: Photo via Orange County Regional History Center/FacebookIchetucknee Springs
12087 SW U.S. Highway 27, Fort White
Just a drive away is one of Florida’s most versatile natural springs. For just $6 per vehicle, Ichetucknee Springs offers a picturesque watering hole, a sprawling natural lazy river (with tubes for rent) and several nature trails. Spend a quintessential summer day on the water with enough action and views to keep the youngsters stimulated. Credit: Photo via Ichetucknee Springs/FacebookWildflower Farms
2218 Carrington Drive, Orlando
Wildflower Farms is a small farmstead located right here in Orlando. Reserve a spot for one of their special kid-friendly events, like Family time on the Farm ($16 per person) and Fables on the Farm ($13 per person). Credit: Photo via Wildflower Farms/FacebookGet nostalgic at Semoran Skateway
2670 Cassel Creek Boulevard, Casselberry
A classic! Skate your day away at Semoran Skateway, where you can enjoy funky tunes and thrill at the heights of athleticism. Don’t forget your socks! Credit: Photo via Semoran Skateway/YelpVisit Orlando Science Center
777 E. Princeton St., Orlando
If you want to experience some naturally occurring thrills while learning about the world around you, Orlando Science Center has it all. With options and exhibits fit for all ages, it’s a great spot to take the kiddos or enjoy with a group of friends. Credit: Photo via Orlando Science Center/Facebook
8501 International Drive, Orlando
What’s a mini golf course without a good theme? Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, located next to Icon Park, features over-the-top pirate ships and creative challenges across three different courses. Tickets start at $16 for adults and $14 for children age 4 to 12. Credit: Photo via Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf/Facebook
1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland Enzian Theater has a sizable and attractive patio surrounding its Eden Bar, perfect for enjoying a drink or small bite before catching a movie. From cult classics to the latest buzzing blockbuster, the theater offers daily showings sure to please. Check their schedule for matinees, kids’ showings and special events. Credit: Photo via Enzian Theater/TwitterCentral Florida Zoo
3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a relatively cheap spot perfect for a summer day with little ones. The zoo offers scads of animal viewings and tons of educational opportunities, with general admission tickets ranging from $15 to $25, depending on the time of year and age of the ticket holder (but the extra-little ones age 2 and below get in free). Credit: Photo via Central Florida Zoo/FacebookOrlando Cat Cafe
532 Cagan Park Ave., Clermont
Spend an afternoon with the cool cats. Entry is $10 for adults and $8 for kids under 12. Walk in or make a reservation (you’ll be given priority) and soak up all the kitty fun. But be warned: You might need to fight the urge to take your new friends home. Credit: Photo via Orlando Cat Cafe/Facebook
29 minutes from Orlando Wekiva Island offers some ideal outdoor fun without requiring an entire planned day trip. This Central Florida destination is just under a 30-minute drive from Orlando, and offers plenty of water fun for kids. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, play beach volleyball, or just splash around in the cool, clear waters. Credit: Photo via Wekiva Island/FacebookSpecial events at Orange County Library System
Various branches
Across 16 branches throughout Orange County, these libraries offer various classes, story times and special events especially catered to little ones. Credit: Photo via Orange County Library System/FacebookUniversal CityWalk
6000 Universal Boulevard, Orlando
Like Disney Springs, Universal CityWalk is kind of like micro-dosing Universal Studios for free. There’s plenty to see and eat, and if you choose the right activities, the kids won’t even suspect you didn’t pay to get in. Credit: Photo via AdobeOrlando Outdoor Movies via À la Cart
Downtown Orlando
Every Monday, À la Cart hosts a free outdoor movie night in downtown Orlando. You’ll have to sign up for their newsletters to know which movies are playing, or you can just show up and be surprised. Movies are always 7 to 9 p.m. and are accompanied by plenty of food trucks for some mid-movie eats. Credit: Photo via À la Cart/FacebookTwistee Treat
Various locations
This Florida-based chain is recognizable for its giant chocolate-covered cone buildings and delicious soft-serve ice cream. Have it any way you want – cup, cone, twirled, sundae, shake or malt, with rainbow or chocolate sprinkles, nuts and candy, plus dips in chocolate, cherry or butterscotch. It may not be a local-only spot, but that doesn’t mean we can’t claim it as our own. Credit: Photo via Twistee Treat/Facebook
