Wanting to hit the town for an evening without spending too much? Well these 15 ideas will help you do just that.
1. Wander Disney Springs (aka Downtown Disney)
You don't have to spend money to explore the area, you can just wander and take in the sights. At night this area comes to life with a vibrant atmosphere, lots of stores to explore, nightclubs, restaurants, various merchants, and more. You can even hop on one of the free Disney transports like the buses to the Resorts or if you wanting to, the boat which does stop at select resorts or you can just take a loop. If you drove to Disney Springs then park in a Disney garage for free - chose from Grapefruit, Orange, Lemon, and Lime.
2. Watch the Animals at Animal Kingdom Lodge
Speaking of grabbing a bus to the Resorts, if you do, jump on the Animal Kingdom Lodge bus and get off at Jambo House. Head straight to the check in desk and ask about the scavenger hunt then head to the viewing trails behind the resort.
3. Magic Kingdom Fireworks
You don't have to be in the park to enjoy fireworks there are quite a few locations outside of the park to catch them. The best views are at the Ticket and Transportation Center and the beaches at the Polynesian Resort as well as Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. as a bonus, the hotels may also be hosting a bonfire with smores for purchase or even movie nights.
4. Lakeridge Winery & Vineywards
Offering free tours and tastings make sure to pop in any day of the week from 10am to 49pm (COVID may affect these hours so check their website first).
5. Popcorn Flicks in the Park
Normally hosted by the city every second Thursday of the month, bring a blanket and snacks to settle in for a movie under the stars. Start is usually 7pm but depends on sunset. Can also be cancelled due to weather so check before going.
6. Disney's Boardwalk
Located near EPCOT and reachable by the Skyliner as well as boat and bus, Disney's BoardWalk has roaming street performers and other various entertainers & entertainment that you can take in while walking the shores of Crescent Lake.
7. Check out the Classics & Muscles
Into cars? Old Town has weekly car cruises which are a must to take in. Friday nights are muscle cars and Saturday are classic cars. It is free and there are various events & festivals held throughout the year too.
8. Universal CityWalk
Head here after 6pm and park for free at Universal Orlando Resort (it is not free before 6pm) and then explore the compact entertainment complex across the river from Universal. Here you can find live DJ's, dance parties, restaurants, bowling, and so much more.
9. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Show
If you are at CityWalk, you can jump on the free river boat to head to Portofino Bay where you can catch the nightly show at the Harbor Piazza at sunset for an Italian-inspired musical show. The classically trained entertainment changes nightly depending on what the theme is for that night.
10. Gardens - Harry P. Leu and / or Kraft Azalea Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens is 50 acres of botanical artistry with free entry on the first Monday of the month throughout the spring and summer.
Kraft Azalea Gardens is a plant life sanctuary found in Winter Park which is open until dusk and is free.
11. Lake Eola Park
Starting at 8pm nightly the Lincoln E. Allen fountain turns the lake into a light show spectacle. If you visit on the right night you might catch a free concert or show at the Walt Disney Amphitheater. You can also take in views of Orlando, swans, and foliage.
12. Shopping
Besides Disney Springs there is also Mall at Millenia, and various Farmers Markets during the day (one at Lake Eola Park, another at Winters Park, and a third at Winter Gardens)
13. Art Galleries
Mennello Museum of American Art is free the second Sunday of each month but closes at 4:30pm
Morse Museum of American Art has free periods so check to see if you are going during one!
Rollins Museum of Art is free
14. Electrical Water Pageant Show
Head to any of the resorts along the Seven Seas Lagoon (, the Wilderness Lodge, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the Contemporary) to catch the water pageant that has been running since opening day.
15. The Wheel at ICON Park
To get on the wheel costs some cash but the view is well worth it. Since Florida is flat it feels like you can see forever.
