One of the best perks of living in Orlando apartments is how much there is to do without spending a fortune. Whether you're planning a cheap date, a night out with roommates, or a weekend adventure, the city is packed with free parks, outdoor escapes, and budget-friendly attractions. Here are some of the best inexpensive things to do around Orlando.
Free Things to Do in Orlando
Lake Eola Park
Address: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801
Price: Free (swan boat rentals extra)
Lake Eola Park is one of Orlando's most iconic spots. Walk the path around the lake, take in the downtown skyline, check out weekend events, or rent one of the famous swan boats for a low-cost activity with friends. If you love the idea of a lakeside morning jog, browse apartments near Lake Eola and make it part of your routine.
Disney Springs
Address: 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Price: Free admission and parking
You don't need a park ticket to enjoy Disney Springs. Live music, unique shops, and plenty of places to explore make it a fun evening destination where you can soak up the atmosphere without spending much. Cast members and locals who want to stay close to the magic can find apartments near Disney in nearby neighborhoods.
ICON Park
Address: 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Price: Free to walk around (individual attractions sold separately)
ICON Park is a lively entertainment district on International Drive filled with restaurants, shops, and photo spots. Attractions like The Wheel require a ticket, but strolling the property is completely free, making it an easy evening outing.
UCF Arboretum
Address: 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, FL 32816
Price: Free
Located on the University of Central Florida campus, the UCF Arboretum offers walking trails, native Florida plants, and quiet nature paths. It's open to the public and a great place to study outside, get some exercise, or unwind. Students living in apartments near UCF can get there in minutes.
Little Econ Greenway
Address: Jay Blanchard Park, 2451 N Dean Rd, Orlando, FL 32817
Price: Free
The Little Econ Greenway is a paved trail that follows the Little Econlockhatchee River through east Orlando. Bring a bike, skateboard, or running shoes and keep an eye out for turtles and wading birds along the water. It's an easy, free workout spot for anyone living in east Orlando apartments.
Fun Activities for $20 or Less
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Address: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712
Price: $6 per vehicle (2 to 8 people)
Spend the day swimming in crystal-clear spring water, kayaking, hiking, or picnicking. Split the entry fee with a full car and Wekiwa Springs State Park becomes one of the most affordable outdoor adventures near Orlando. On warm weekends the park can reach capacity, so arrive early.
Congo River Golf
Address: 12193 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32826
Price: About $19 per adult
Congo River Golf is one of the most popular mini golf spots in Central Florida and a short drive from many Orlando apartments on the east side of town. Play through waterfalls, caves, and tropical landscapes, then feed the live alligators. It's an affordable date night or group activity that never gets old.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
Address: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Price: About $15 for adults
Leu Gardens features nearly 50 acres of flowers, walking trails, tropical plants, and shaded gardens. It's one of the best inexpensive places in Orlando for photography, studying outdoors, or a quiet afternoon.
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
Address: 312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
Price: About $20 per adult
This relaxing one-hour guided boat tour winds through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes, showing off historic homes, wildlife, and lush canals. Pair it with a walk down Park Avenue for an easy afternoon trip.
Worth the Splurge (But Still Affordable)
Orlando Magic Game
Address: 400 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801
Price: Tickets often start around $20 to $30 for select games
Catching the Orlando Magic at Kia Center can be surprisingly affordable, especially for weeknight games. If you live in one of the apartments in downtown Orlando, you can skip event parking altogether and walk to the arena.
Black Hammock Adventures
Address: 2356 Black Hammock Fish Camp Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765
Price: Varies by ride length; watch for seasonal specials
Just northeast of Orlando in Oviedo, Black Hammock offers airboat rides across Lake Jesup, where you can spot alligators and wading birds in their natural habitat. Stick around for gator bites at the lakeside restaurant afterward.
Wrapping It Up
From free parks and gardens to mini golf, springs, and NBA games, there's no shortage of inexpensive things to do in Orlando. Wherever you live in the city, adventure is never far away. If you're still searching, browse apartments in Orlando on 407apartments to find a home close to the places you love most.