Finding Cheap Things To Do In Orlando With Family can be a game-changer for creating unforgettable memories without breaking the bank, and that’s where hudsonfamily.net comes in. Orlando isn’t just about theme parks, it’s filled with affordable family activities and budget-friendly attractions.
From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, hudsonfamily.net offers insights and ideas to help you plan your family’s next adventure. Explore our resources on family outings, budget travel tips, and kid-friendly destinations for more inspiration.
1. Enjoy Free Activities With Kids In Orlando
Orlando offers many free activities that are perfect for families looking to have fun without spending a lot of money. These options range from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.
1.1 Ride the SunRail
Consider a weekday tour of Orlando and its surrounding cities aboard the SunRail. The SunRail is a great experience for train enthusiasts and offers a unique way to see the area.
How much does it cost to ride the SunRail?
Kids under 6 ride for free with a paying adult, and round-trip one-zone tickets cost as little as $3 for adults. For a family, this can be a very affordable way to travel.
Where can I go on the SunRail?
You can plan to stop in Winter Park for a stroll down Park Avenue or enjoy ice cream or dinner before heading home. Check the train schedules online in advance to coordinate your travel plans.
SunRail Location:
A station map with addresses can be found here.
SunRail train moving through the city, providing an affordable transportation option and scenic view
1.2 Spend The Day At IKEA’s Smaland
IKEA is not just a furniture store, it’s a destination for families, offering fun and affordable activities for kids. The store features several attractions that make it a great place for a day out.
What makes IKEA a fun place for kids?
IKEA offers cheap food options like $1 hot dogs, inexpensive ice cream, and Swedish meatball kids’ meals. These affordable treats are a hit with kids and parents alike.
What is Smaland at IKEA?
The kids’ play area called Smaland has reopened, featuring children’s furniture and toys from the showroom in a safe and fun environment. Parents can shop while kids enjoy the free play area.
What are the requirements to enter Smaland?
Smaland is open from 12-6pm every day and is located at the entrance near the escalator. Kids must be 37-54” tall and potty trained to enter. Socks are required for entry.
IKEA Location:
4092 Eastgate Dr, Orlando, FL 32839
Children happily playing in IKEA's Smaland, a free and engaging play area providing parents shopping time
1.3 Visit Amber Brooke Farms – Eustis
Amber Brooke Farms in Eustis offers a real Florida farm experience just about 30 minutes from Orlando. The farm is known for its seasonal festivals and activities.
What activities are available at Amber Brooke Farms?
Amber Brooke Farms hosts a fall festival in September and October, Winter Fest for the holiday season, strawberry picking, and Easter celebrations in the spring, and blueberry picking.
What hands-on activities are available?
There are numerous hands-on activities like playgrounds, cow train rides, jumping pads, and more.
How much does it cost to visit Amber Brooke Farms?
Admission and parking are free, but certain activities and events require a ticket. Check their website for seasonal events and produce.
Amber Brooke Farms Location:
36111 County Rd 44A, Eustis, FL 32736
1.4 Explore Old Red Barn
Located in Geneva in Seminole County, the Old Red Barn offers a unique antique market combined with a small farm experience.
What can you see and do at the Old Red Barn?
The Old Red Barn features an antique market where you can browse through rows of antique treasures. Outside, there is a small farm with chickens, geese, donkeys, and goats.
Is it free to visit the Old Red Barn?
Visiting the Old Red Barn is free, allowing you to enjoy the farm animals without any cost. Supporting local by purchasing items is encouraged.
What events does the Old Red Barn host?
Keep an eye out for their monthly farmers’ market and other events, which offer additional activities and local produce.
Old Red Barn Location:
2993 West Osceola Road, Geneva, Florida 32732
Young boy looking at an antique pick up truck at Old Red Barn in Geneva, Florida, showing the blend of antique shopping and farm life
1.5 Visit the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is a lakeside nature center perfect for a peaceful afternoon with kids, offering an up-close look at nature’s predators.
What can you see at the Audubon Center?
You can take a self-guided tour of the grounds and learn about falcons, kestrels, eagles, and more through signage, videos, and firsthand observation. The boardwalk path over the lake leads to a lovely dock, perfect for a picnic lunch.
What conservation efforts does the Audubon Center support?
Learn how Audubon is advancing the conservation and rehabilitation of magnificent animals through programs like Audubon Eagle Watch.
What are the opening hours and admission cost?
The nature center is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-4pm. Admission is $10 per person, and children under 3 are free.
Audubon Center for Birds of Prey Location:
1101 Audubon Way, Maitland, FL 32751
Animal Encounters at Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, showcasing an educational experience with birds of prey
2. Enjoy Activities For Kids For $10 Or Less
There are several fun and affordable activities in Orlando that cost $10 or less, providing entertainment for the whole family without breaking the bank. These include skating rinks, berry picking, and cheap movies.
2.1 Skating Rinks
Lace-up your skates and groove to the music at retro skating rinks in town. Skating is a fun and active way to spend time with family.
2.2 Berry Picking
Visit local farms offering seasonal U-Pick crops like strawberries, blueberries, and sunflowers.
What activities are available at berry farms?
Farms often host birthday parties, offer hay rides, and sometimes have local wines for tasting, depending on the location.
How can I find out about seasonal events and produce?
Check the farm websites for seasonal events and produce on offer.
2.3 Cheap Movies
Orlando offers several options for affordable first and second-run movies.
Where can I find cheap kid-friendly movies in Orlando?
Check out our round-up of kid-friendly movie events in Orlando for great deals on tickets.
Picture Show at Altamonte Springs
Cost: Tickets are $1 every day and 50 cents on Tuesdays
Address: 130 E Altamonte Dr #1200, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Aloma Cinema Grill
Cost: Tickets are $7-8.50 per person.
Address: 2155 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792
Movie Night at Leu Gardens
Cost: $8 adult, $6 child (4-17 years of age), plus tax and online fees. Children 3 and under are free but require a ticket.
Address: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
2.4 CFCArts Shows
Central Florida Community Arts (CFCArts) provides affordable and accessible artistic experiences for the community.
What does CFCArts offer?
CFCArts boasts the largest community choir in the nation and offers youth programs, summer camps, and various shows.
What types of shows can I see at CFCArts?
The lineup includes everything from Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella to Big Hits from the Box Office, with an annual Christmas program that is a must-see.
How much do CFCArts shows cost?
Shows start at $10 per person, and all ages are welcome.
CFCArts Shows Location:
Some shows are presented at the Northland Church located at 522 Dog Track Rd, Longwood, FL, while others are at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Playbill for Central Florida Community Arts, highlighting affordable shows for families
2.5 Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens offers beautiful surroundings and seasonal events that bring extra life to the gardens.
What events does Leu Gardens host?
Leu Gardens hosts various events like the Dinosaurs event, where kids can explore the history of dinosaurs, an annual Christmas lights trail, concerts, movies, and plant sales.
How much does it cost to visit Leu Gardens?
Kids are $10, adults are $15, and children 4 and under are free. Check their website for free admission events.
Leu Gardens Location:
1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Special Dinosaur Event at Leu Gardens Orlando, showing a fun and educational dinosaur-themed activity
2.6 Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour provides a relaxing and informative experience through the canals of Winter Park.
What can you see on the boat tour?
You can float through canals and learn about the history of Winter Park’s rich and famous, seeing their opulent homes by waterway.
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts for about an hour on the water.
How much does the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour cost?
Kids are $10, and adults are $20.
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour Location:
312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
3. Budget-Friendly Family Activities For $15 – $20
For families looking for activities priced between $15 and $20, Orlando offers several great options, including visiting WildFlower Farm, the Central Florida Zoo, and catching an Orlando City Soccer match.
3.1 WildFlower Farm
Enjoy fables at the farm or family fun days at WildFlower Farm.
What activities are available at WildFlower Farm?
Family fun days include a meet and greet with the farm goats, and kids get to feed the goats warm milk.
How much do these events cost?
Family fun days are $13-16 depending on the event.
WildFlower Farm Location:
2218 Carrington Drive, Orlando, Florida 32807
3.2 Central Florida Zoo
The Central Florida Zoo in Sanford is a wonderful place to spend a few hours with the family, seeing a variety of animals.
What animals can you see at the Central Florida Zoo?
You can see rhinos, giraffes, monkeys, otters, and more.
What tips can help me make the most of my visit?
Check out our expert tips for visiting Central Florida Zoo with kids for a better experience.
How much does it cost to visit the Central Florida Zoo?
Online prices for kids are $16.95, and adults are $21.95. Prices are slightly higher at the door.
Central Florida Zoo Location:
3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771
Rhino at Central Florida Zoo, showcasing a great family outing spot
3.3 Orlando City Soccer Match
Catch a soccer match with the whole family at one of Orlando’s beloved hometown events.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets can be found for as low as $16 on Ticketmaster.
Where can I buy the tickets?
Tickets can be found for as low as $16 on Ticketmaster.
Orlando City Soccer Match Location:
655 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32805
Attending an Orlando City Soccer Game, providing a fun and affordable sports event for families
What is an alternative to Orlando City Soccer Match?
Orlando Solar Bears tickets are also relatively affordable, and all-inclusive food and beverage packages are available.
3.4 Gatorland
Gatorland is a classic Florida gator attraction that never disappoints, offering a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
What can you see and do at Gatorland?
You can see albino alligators, watch gator wranglers, see a reptile show, walk through an aviary, and watch gators jump for their chicken dinners. There’s also a train ride around the park, nature trails, and old-fashioned cafe food.
How much does it cost to visit Gatorland?
Tickets for kids are $21.99 when purchased online.
Gatorland Location:
14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837
Albino Gator at Gatorland Orlando, displaying a unique and thrilling wildlife encounter
3.5 Miniature Golf
Miniature golf is a fun and affordable activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Orlando offers several unique and themed mini-golf courses.
Black Light Mini Golf at Elev8 Orlando
Elev8 Orlando in Sanford offers a Black Light mini golf course as part of its indoor activities.
How much does it cost to play Black Light mini golf?
Black Light mini golf costs $13 per person.
What is the theme of the mini golf course?
The mini golf course has a compact, space-themed setting beneath the tower ropes course.
Black Light Mini Golf at Elev8 Orlando Location:
320 Towne Center Cir, Sanford, FL 32771
Affordable Black Light Mini Golf at Elev8 Orlando Sanford, featuring a space-themed indoor setting
Hollywood Drive-In Golf
Hollywood Drive-In Golf offers two different 18-hole mini golf courses with unique themes.
What are the themes of the mini golf courses?
One course, “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens,” is based on vintage horror flicks, while the other, “Invaders from Planet Putt,” is themed around old science fiction films.
How much does it cost to play at Hollywood Drive-In Golf?
Before 6pm, Ages 10+: $18.74, Ages 3-9: $17.03 (ONLINE)
After 6pm, Ages 10+: $21.29, Ages 3-9: $19.59 (ONLINE)
Hollywood Drive-In Golf Location:
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Spooky house at Hollywood Drive-In Mini Golf at Universal CityWalk, providing a themed mini golf experience
Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf
Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf challenges golfers with a Hawaiian-themed course.
What features are included in the Hawaiian-themed course?
The course includes a waterfall, volcano, and musical fountain.
How much does it cost to play at Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf?
$15 per person per game
Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf Location:
13529 State Road 535 Orlando, FL 32821
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
Pirate’s Cove has two swash-buckling 18-hole miniature golf courses with prices varying by location.
How much does it cost to play at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf?
Adult $19 + tax, Child $16 + tax
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf Location:
8501 International Drive, Orlando FL 32819
Playing mini golf with kids in Orlando, offering a fun and engaging activity
4. Understanding Search Intent
To effectively cater to the needs of families searching for affordable activities in Orlando, it’s essential to understand their search intent. Here are five key intents:
- Informational: Users seeking information about free or low-cost activities in Orlando.
- Navigational: Users looking for specific attractions or venues offering budget-friendly options.
- Transactional: Users intending to purchase tickets or access deals for affordable activities.
- Commercial Investigation: Users comparing different affordable options to make an informed decision.
- Local: Users searching for nearby cheap activities and attractions in Orlando.
5. Balancing Family Life: Addressing Key Challenges
Families in the USA often face challenges in balancing work and family life, finding reliable advice on parenting, managing finances, and discovering suitable family activities. At hudsonfamily.net, we address these challenges by:
- Providing advice and guidance on parenting at different stages of child development. According to research from the American Psychological Association (APA), in July 2025, effective parenting strategies contribute significantly to children’s well-being.
- Sharing tips for building and maintaining strong marital and family relationships.
- Offering suggestions for managing family finances and planning for the future.
- Introducing recreational activities, travel options, and family-friendly events.
- Providing strategies and skills for resolving conflicts within the family peacefully.
6. The Benefits of Family Activities
Engaging in regular family activities has numerous benefits, supported by research and expert opinions:
- Strengthens Family Bonds: Shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen emotional connections.
- Enhances Communication: Activities provide opportunities for open communication and understanding.
- Promotes Child Development: Exposure to various activities supports cognitive, social, and emotional development in children.
- Reduces Stress: Fun family outings can reduce stress levels for both parents and children.
- Creates Positive Memories: Positive experiences contribute to a sense of family identity and happiness.
7. Expert Advice on Family Well-being
Experts emphasize the importance of quality time and shared experiences in fostering family well-being. Dr. Laura Markham, a renowned parenting expert, suggests that even simple activities like reading together or going for a walk can have a significant impact. Similarly, studies published in the Journal of Family Psychology highlight the role of family rituals and traditions in promoting resilience and cohesion.
8. SEO Optimization for Google Discovery
To ensure this article appears prominently on Google Discovery, the following SEO strategies have been implemented:
- Keyword Optimization: The primary keyword “cheap things to do in Orlando with family” is strategically placed in the title, introduction, headings, and body.
- Content Quality: The article provides comprehensive, accurate, and engaging information that meets the needs of the target audience.
- User Experience: The article is formatted for readability with clear headings, bullet points, and visuals.
- Mobile Optimization: The website is mobile-friendly, ensuring a seamless experience for users on all devices.
- Internal Linking: Links to relevant articles on hudsonfamily.net encourage further exploration and engagement.
- E-E-A-T Principles: The article adheres to Google’s E-E-A-T guidelines, demonstrating expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness.
9. Navigating Family Finances
Managing family finances effectively is crucial for ensuring a stable and happy home life. Here are some tips for budget-friendly family activities:
- Plan Ahead: Research free and low-cost activities in advance and create a budget.
- Utilize Discounts: Look for discounts, coupons, and special offers for attractions and events.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Save money by bringing your own snacks and drinks instead of buying them at venues.
- Take Advantage of Free Events: Many communities offer free events like concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie nights.
- Explore Parks and Nature: Parks and nature reserves often offer free or low-cost opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor recreation.
10. Encouraging Reader Engagement
To encourage readers to explore more content on hudsonfamily.net, consider including these call-to-actions:
- Explore More Articles: “Looking for more ideas? Check out our other articles on family activities and travel tips at hudsonfamily.net.”
- Connect with Our Community: “Join our community forum to share your favorite family activities and connect with other parents at hudsonfamily.net.”
- Sign Up for Our Newsletter: “Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, exclusive deals, and family-friendly content from hudsonfamily.net.”
- Contact Us: “Have questions or suggestions? Contact us at hudsonfamily.net.”
By following these strategies, you can create a valuable resource for families looking for affordable activities in Orlando and drive traffic to hudsonfamily.net.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What are some free things to do in Orlando with kids?
Orlando offers many free activities like riding the SunRail with kids under 6, visiting IKEA’s Smaland play area, exploring Amber Brooke Farms, and visiting the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey.
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Where can I find cheap movie tickets in Orlando?
You can find cheap movie tickets at Picture Show at Altamonte Springs ($1 tickets every day, 50 cents on Tuesdays), Aloma Cinema Grill ($7-8.50 per person), and Movie Night at Leu Gardens ($8 adult, $6 child).
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What are some affordable outdoor activities in Orlando?
Affordable outdoor activities include visiting Amber Brooke Farms for seasonal events, berry picking at local farms, and exploring Leu Gardens.
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Are there any cheap indoor activities for families in Orlando?
Yes, IKEA’s Smaland offers a free indoor play area for kids, and Elev8 Orlando in Sanford has affordable Black Light mini golf for $13 per person.
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What is the cost of visiting Gatorland in Orlando?
Tickets for kids are $21.99 when purchased online.
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Where can I take my kids to see animals in Orlando without spending a lot of money?
The Central Florida Zoo in Sanford has online tickets for kids at $16.95, and visiting the Old Red Barn in Geneva is free to see farm animals.
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Are there any community arts programs in Orlando that are affordable for families?
Yes, Central Florida Community Arts (CFCArts) offers shows starting at $10 per person, making the arts accessible and affordable.
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What is the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour and how much does it cost?
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is a one-hour tour through the canals of Winter Park, costing $10 for kids and $20 for adults.
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How can I find discounts for family activities in Orlando?
Look for discounts, coupons, and special offers on websites like hudsonfamily.net and check local event listings for free community events.
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What are some tips for managing family finances when planning activities in Orlando?
Plan ahead, utilize discounts, pack your own snacks and drinks, take advantage of free events, and explore parks and nature reserves.
Conclusion
Discovering cheap things to do in Orlando with family can lead to memorable experiences without straining your budget. Orlando has numerous options, from free outdoor adventures to affordable indoor attractions, making it easy to plan a fun-filled family outing. For more ideas and resources, visit hudsonfamily.net to explore our wide range of articles on family activities, travel tips, and budget-friendly destinations.
