By Kirk Brown
Things to Do in Orlando for Free
While millions of tourists crowd into Central Florida's pricey theme parks, it's possible to have a great time in
Orlando without burning a hole in your wallet. The city has an impressive array of free sightseeing activities and attractions that can make for a memorable yet inexpensive vacation. Stroll around a popular downtown lake, explore lush gardens, gaze at an ancient tree, appreciate sculptures and see hundreds of motorcycles and classic cars without spending a single penny.
Visit a Downtown Oasis
With its iconic fountain and popular walking trail, Lake Eola serves as a serene oasis nestled amid the high-rise buildings of Orlando's bustling downtown. In addition to ducks, anhinga and swans, the 43-acre park features a playground and amphitheater. Swan paddle boats also can be rented for a fee.
Lake Eola
195 N. Rosalind Ave.
Orlando, Fl 32801
(407) 246-2827
www.cityoforlando.net/fpr/net/t_ParkRec.aspx?Park=062
Stroll Through Leu Gardens
Visitors can explore more than 50 acres of greenery on Monday mornings when admission fees are waived at the Harry P. Leu Gardens. In addition to boasting the largest collection of camellias outside California, there are 3 miles of paved walkways that pass through Florida's largest formal rose garden, as well as butterfly, palm, bamboo and cycad gardens.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
1920 N. Forest Avenue
Orlando, Fl. 32803-1537
( 407) 246-2620.
www.leugardens.org
See an Ancient Tree
An impressive 3,500-year-old cypress tree nicknamed "The Senator" is the main highlight at Big Tree Park. The Senator, which is 115 feet tall with a trunk measuring 11.3 feet in diameter, can be seen at the end of a boardwalk that passes through a marsh. The 11-acre park also has picnic tables and restrooms.
Big Tree Park
761 General Hutchison Parkway
Longwood, Fl 32750-3732
(407) 321-1693
www.seminolecountyfl.gov/guide/parks/park1.asp
Gaze at Sculptures
Albin Polasek was one of America's prominent 20th Century sculptors. A number of his more notable works are on permanent display in a 3-acre garden at the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens. In addition to classical, liturgical and mythological sculptures, the gardens feature seasonal plantings and unusual exotics.
Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens
633 Osceola Avenue
Winter Park, Florida 32789
(407) 647-6294
www.polasek.org
Check Out Old Town
The Old Town entertainment complex in Kissimmee hosts a rally for more than 700 motorcyclists on Thursday nights. Saturday nights feature 300 classic cars on display and a free rock-n-roll concert with tunes from the 1950s and 1960s. Parking and admission is always free at Old Town, but be prepared to spend some money at the complex's amusement rides, shops and restaurants.
Old Town
5770 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway
Kissimmee, Fl 34746
(407) 396-4888
www.old-town.com
About the Author:
Kirk Brown is an award-winning freelance writer with two decades of diverse media experience. A former newspaper reporter and editor, he also was managing editor of an acclaimed scuba diving magazine. Brown has written scripts for more than 50 half-hour TV programs focusing on technology and health topics.
Photo Credits:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorboatberkshire/3381226068/
