Millions, yes millions, of people head to Orlando each year to visit a mouse, to experience some Harry Potter and to see an orca jump high in the air. These millions of people spend thousands of dollars for a week long visit to the major theme parks in the area.
Did you know there are also lots of things to do in the Orlando area that are much less expensive?
Fun for $20 or Less
Andretti Indoor Karting & Games: Featuring multi-level indoor karting on International Drive, this venue also has bowling, a ropes course, laser tag, games, gourmet food, two bars and more. Adult races are $19.95 with membership ($21.95 for non-members), and other activities are well under $20.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Interactive exhibits and artifacts can be found at this International Drive attraction that celebrates oddities from around the world. Admission is $19.99 for adults and $12.99 for children 3-11 when purchased from Visit Orlando, with kids under 3 free.
Crayola Experience: Located at The Florida Mall, this two-story, 70,000-square-foot family attraction provides a full day of creative, colorful fun with 26 hands-on activities, including drip art and a color playground. When purchased from Visit Orlando, tickets are just $18.95 each. You can also find some discounts on tickets HERE.
I-Drive NASCAR: On International Drive, race state-of-the-art karts at this indoor attraction, which also boasts an arcade, bowling, pool tables, and a full bar and restaurant. When purchased online, races are $18.99 for adults and $16.99 for children under 16, who must be at least 55 inches tall, and a discounted combo package is available from Visit Orlando. Discount tickets are available HERE
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: See more than 500 animals, including rare and endangered species, as well as 23 acres of gardens in Sanford, about 25 minutes from downtown Orlando. Admission is $19.50 for adults, $15.95 for seniors, $13.75 for children ages 3-12, and free for kids under 3.
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour: The waterfront mansions you’ll see cost considerably more than the narrated tour itself, which is $13.15 for adults and $6.57 for children ages 2-11 when purchased from Visit Orlando. You’ll also witness the waterways and natural scenery of this charming city about 25 minutes from downtown Orlando. Discount tickets are available HERE.
Orlando Museum of Art: Besides showcasing local, national and international works of art, the museum has two discovery centers for children. Admission for adults is $15, $8 for seniors, and $5 for ages 4-17. Kids under 3 are free, as are active and retired military personnel.
Bronze Kingdom African Art Gallery: With more than 2,000 pieces, this gallery at Orlando Fashion Square Mall near downtown Orlando features the largest collection of rare African bronze sculptures in the world, plus beaded and wood sculptures. General admission is $5, and guided tours are available at a cost of $12 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $7 for children under 12 and students with proper ID.
There is also a long list of things to do in the area that are free and you can find some HERE
