Free Things to Do in Orlando: Nighttime Adventures
Orlando's nightlife isn't just unique and vibrant. It's also packed with value, thanks to many completely free options for visitors who want to explore a different side of the destination! From opera singers to outdoor movies in the heart of downtown, here's your guide to free ways to unwind after an action-packed day in Orlando.
Free Nighttime Activities in Orlando's Tourism District
Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando
Disney Springs and Disney's Boardwalk: Featuring free admission and free parking, Walt Disney World Resort's retail, dining and entertainment district also offers a plethora of free entertainment, including street performers and live musicians. And if you're traveling with kids (or are just a kid at heart), be sure to stop by The LEGO Store, where you can build LEGO figures at no cost!
Lesser known but also worth a visit is Disney's Boardwalk, which is within walking distance of Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Based on turn-of-the-20th-century Atlantic City, this free attraction invites you to stroll along a Coney Island-style boardwalk filled with free evening entertainment, such as jugglers, comedians, fire-eaters and more.
At both locations, you can also ride free ferries that travel to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal CityWalk: This 30-acre dining, entertainment and shopping hub at Universal Orlando Resort is a fun place to hang out and relax ... particularly after spending a day at Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure or Universal's Volcano Bay. In addition to free admission, as well as free parking after 6 p.m., you can take advantage of free water taxi rides, which run between CityWalk and three of Universal's onsite hotels. Other free ways to have nighttime fun here include watching sports at Hot Dog Hall of Fame's real stadium seats and dancing to a live DJ.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando: While enjoying a free ride on Universal CityWalk's water taxis, hop off when you arrive at this onsite property, which hosts Musica della Notte (aka Music of the Night) every evening. Beginning at sunset, the event stars classically trained opera singers who perform traditional opera, festive melodies and a unique blend of pop music and opera called popera. It's the perfect way to end your day on a high note — literally!
Learn more: Orlando Hotels & Resorts
ICON Orlando 360, Home of ICON Orlando
ICON Orlando 360: You can't come to Orlando without snagging a selfie in front of the iconic ICON Orlando at ICON Orlando 360 on International Drive. Fortunately, doing so won't cost you a cent thanks to free admission to the dining, entertainment and retail complex! The central green, where you can watch the Eye's nightly lighting, is also a great place to kick back and relax after exploring the International Drive area, which includes ICON Orlando 360's Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Arcade City attractions.
Old Town Car Cruises: Close to Walt Disney World in Kissimmee, and modeled after Florida communities of yesteryear, Old Town is a family-friendly district with attractions, restaurants, shops and free admission. For a trip down memory lane, or to introduce your kids to classic cars, check out their Saturday Nite Car Cruise, which is America's longest-running weekly car show. Other car cruises are held on select nights throughout the year, and you can also enjoy live entertainment as well as weekly cash prizes, drawings and giveaways.
Free Nighttime Activities in Downtown Orlando and Winter Park
Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando
Movieola at Lake Eola Park: On the last Friday of the month from April through August, this free outdoor film series features entertainment that the whole family can enjoy together. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, snacks and leashed pets, and food is available for purchase. The event starts at 6 p.m., with the movie usually starting around 8:15 p.m.
Orlando Brewing: Adjacent to downtown Orlando's Amtrak train station, Orlando's original craft brewery offers free tours starting at 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and parking is free.
Learn more: Orlando Nightlife & Entertainment
Popcorn Flicks in the Park: Typically held on the second Thursday of each month, and co-hosted by the city of Winter Park and Maitland's Enzian Theater, this free program invites you to catch a movie in Central Park beginning at sunset. Featured movies are always suitable for all ages, and attendees are encouraged to bring snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and blankets. Winter Park is about 25 minutes from downtown Orlando.
Stay Connected to Orlando!
Never miss a second of what happens in Orlando! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest offers, exclusive tips and live feeds from our newest attractions and fun events, and subscribe to our eNewsletter for more information from Orlando: Theme Park Capital of the World®.