Free things to do in Orlando

By Peter Warren


I know precisely what you are thinking right now. "FREE?! In Orlando?! Yeah right!" But as a matter of fact there are quite a few free attractions in the Orlando area. Of course they aren't usually as spectacular as the more well known attractions, but when you're on a tight budget and you want a "day filler" be sure you check a few of these out.

Disney's Boardwalk

Take a leisurely walk along the Boardwalk by EPCOT, a re-creation of an Atlantic 1930s-style community. The forty five acre waterfront community is renowned for its lively nightclubs and amusement hot spots. Everyone is certain to have fun watching the various street musicians, magicians, and performers without cost.

Celebration

Wander the side walks of the community of Celebration. The neighborhood, built by Disney Imagineers, is a mixture of historic-themed residences and modern technology. Admire the old-fashioned establishments and let the children play in the interactive fountains. Go to the farmers market on a Sunday morning, and check out the many free events made available by Reading Trout Books. Tourists may even notice (artificial) snowfall in December.

Downtown Disney

You don't need a ticket to experience the Walt Disney World retail stores and entertainment. Roam the streets of Downtown Disney Marketplace for a large selection of boutiques and eating spots for any budget. Make sure you see their Festival of the Masters (November), an arts-and-crafts event where youngsters can make chalk masterpieces. See glassblowers at Arribas Brothers; go and visit the 4,400-square-foot LEGO Imagination Center to take part in a "beat-the-clock" building contest, and also check out a 12-foot T. Rex and a 30-foot sea serpent, each made of several thousand LEGO bricks.

The Firework Shows

Simply because you aren't in the park, it doesn't mean you can't watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks. There are a few superb viewing spots by the Magic Kingdom Resort Hotels. A number of my favorites are Bay Lake Tower, The Polynesian Resort beach, along with The Grand Floridian Resort. These places will often play the background music to make sure you get the full experience.

The Legend of Spook Hill

Many tourists still ask if the Legend of Spook Hill is still true. Located in Lake Wales, Florida, a sign marks the place where you should stop the car, leave it in neutral, and watch as your vehicle mysteriously climbs back up to the top of the hill. They say the spirits of Children push you back up. But are they true? We dare you to find out for yourself!




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