Grown-Up Getaways: Your Guide to the Best Things To Do in Orlando, Florida, For Adults
As it turns out, the Theme Park Capital of the World isn’t just for kids! Orlando is a happening place for adults to enjoy, too.
Even better, there are so many ways to experience this dream vacation destination on the cheap. Look beyond the theme parks‘ surface of Orlando, and you’ll find plenty of ways to see the city (and some of its theme parks!) without shelling out the big bucks for tickets. Likewise, the list of free things to do in Orlando for adults is anything but sparse!
The city is located in Central Florida, a hub of the Sunshine State known for hot, summer-like days year-round and the cool shade of its cypress trees. A lively tourist scene puts Orlando near the top of our travel bucket list.
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or a whole week, some of the best things to do in Orlando Florida for adults won’t cost you a penny. There are plenty of free things to do in Orlando, so follow this guide to fill your activity itinerary with freebies and save your dough for luxurious lodging and delectable noms!
Wander Around Walt Disney World
The magic of Disney never entirely wears away, no matter how old you get. However, taking in Disney World as an adult is a wholly new experience of enchantment.
It’s no secret that Disney World isn’t a stereotypical stop for penny pinchers, either. Nonetheless, step outside of the ticketed parks, and this classic attraction’s scope is a lot broader than you think! Did you know there are things to do in Orlando Florida for free and still take in the magic?
For instance, Disney Springs is a one-stop shop for entertainment that is free to enter! So get whisked away by the sights, sounds, and smells of this exciting atmosphere, free of charge. If you’re lucky, you might even get to catch a free festival or event.
Additionally, water taxis leave from Disney Springs about every 20 minutes. Ride the waves and explore gorgeous Disney Resorts for more unique things to do in Orlando for adults!
Related Post: The Grown-Up Guide to a Walt Disney World® Vacation for Adults
Pro Tip: Looking for free parking at Disney? Follow the fruit. The parking garages named Grapefruit, Orange, Lemon, and Lime offer parking sans moolah.
Moreover, Disney’s Boardwalk, located in the EPCOT resort area, is a dreamy setting for an evening walk. Stroll alongside Crescent Lake before showing off your moves at the Atlantic Dance Hall!
Go on a Garden Excursion
Looking for more outdoorsy free things for adults to do in Orlando? Then, surround yourself with beautiful flora and fauna in the spacious gardens of Orlando. There’s no charge to stop and smell the roses (literally!).
Revel in glorious botanical respite on the 50 acres that make up Harry P. Leu Gardens located at 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803. Ramble through the gardens for free on the first Monday of every month during the spring and summer.
Embark on a self-guided tour through mesmerizing sights, including:
- The Butterfly Garden
- The Horseshoe Fountain
- Lake Rowena Overlook
- The Idea Garden
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The Kraft Azalea Garden, located in the nearby city of Winter Park, offers more than five acres of natural wonder to explore for free. And it’s one of the most perfect things to do in Orlando for the elderly, with short walking distances and lots of park benches.
It’s open from 8 a.m. until dusk, so there’s plenty of time to plan a visit around other activities in Orlando on your tourist to-do list.
Photo Alert: Dress up and pick your favorite blooms to use as a backdrop! A photo at the gardens will rival any influencer’s post.
Hike the Ocala National Forest
Can’t get enough of the great outdoors and fun things to do in Orlando for adults? For those who prefer to steer clear of the theme park crowds, there’s more natural bliss to see in Orlando. Located just north of Orlando, the Ocala National Forest boasts 383,000 acres of forest that are yours for hiking.
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Featuring over 600 lakes, rivers, and springs, the state park is the perfect place for those who want an adventure without the price tag. There will be no shortage of fun (or funds) when you spend the day at Ocala National Forest.
Keep reading for even more fun things to do in Orlando Florida for adults!
Jam to Live Music
Maybe the amusement park crowds aren’t your thing, but the concert crowds are. If that’s the case, Orlando caters to you, too! Finding live sets tucked away in cozy pubs and breweries across the city is another idyllic thing to do in Orlando Florida adults. And it’s the perfect date night and Orlando things to do adults!
Enjoy a craft beer while tapping your toes to the tunes at one of these spots:
- Orlando Brewing
- Will’s Pub
- Tin Roof
Tour Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
Take a tour of the gorgeous Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, set on a breathtaking 127-acre estate. This complimentary tour is paired with complimentary tasting, too. As the largest winery in Florida, it’s sure to impress.
These Orlando adult activities and tours run seven days a week, every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy a 15-minute video introduction, followed by a firsthand look at the production process.
Fun Fact: Did you know Orlando has a Beer Spa? Indulge in a 30-minute beer soak with a glass of self-serve beer in the comfort of your own private spa room.
Explore the Town of Celebration
Celebration, Florida, is an entire town designed and developed by the Walt Disney Company. The quaint community is reminiscent of small-town America.
The search for things to do near me for adults is finally over! Take a self-guided walking tour through the town, and you’ll notice that the various styles of architecture blend effortlessly to create a community woven with the magic of Disney.
Throughout this pleasant little area, you’ll find specialty eateries, charming boutiques, and even an event or two, depending on when you visit.
Take a Walk at Lake Eola Park
Nestled in bustling downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is a free gem you won’t want to miss. Lake Eola Park pairs stunning skyline views with exquisite lake views for the perfect city and outdoor life combo.
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Photo Alert: Bring your camera along to get pictures of downtown Orlando’s unique cityscape, as well as wildlife sightings in the park! Take various shots of this one place to diversify your Instagram feed.
Walks around the lake are always free, but there’s more in store if you visit in the evening hours. Each night at 8 p.m., the Lincoln E. Allen fountain in the middle of the lake comes alive with a dazzling light show. Some nights, the Walt Disney Amphitheater also features free concerts!
Watch a Spectacular Fireworks Show
One of the free perks of visiting a theme park haven like Orlando is the fireworks shows, which can be viewed well beyond the park borders! Magic Kingdom Park offers a display that a few other fireworks shows can rival.
You don’t have to pay a dime for theme park admission to take in the glittering blaze from miles away. Bypass the admission price and overwhelm crowds by watching the fireworks from one of these spots:
- Disney’s Boardwalk
- The right side of the marina at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- The beach at Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Related Post: Current Festivals and Events in Orlando
- The Contemporary Resort (make sure you face Magic Kingdom)
- The Transportation Center at Walt Disney World Resort (take the monorail for free!)
Go Window Shopping
Even when your wallet is empty, you can still window shop ’til you drop! For those who want a taste of the finer things in life without footing the bill, the Mall at Millenia located at 4200 Conroy Rd, Orlando, FL 32839, is a great place for window shopping. This mall boasts everything from Armani Exchange to Louis Vuitton.
Another fabulous thing for adults to do in Orlando, Florida, is to stroll through the handmade goods and fresh produce at local farmers’ markets if small businesses are more your style!
There are a few different farmers’ markets sprinkled around Orlando, including:
- Orlando Farmers’ Market at Lake Eola Park
- Winter Park Farmers’ Market
- Winter Garden Farmers’ Market
You can always check out the International Drive hot spots too, like the Orlando International Premium Outlets!
Check out a Rocket Launch
If your Orlando vacation lines up with a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, you’re in luck. One of the coolest free things for adults to do in Orlando Florida is to watch a rocket ascending into space! So, keep your eyes on the sky during your time in Orlando to catch this fantastic sighting.
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Pro Tip: If you want to get a closer look at the launch itself, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is only about an hour away from Orlando. This experience does come with a fee, so you may not want to drop the cash unless you’re a true space buff.
Keep scrolling for more Orlando things to do for adults.
Stroll Through Universal’s CityWalk
Universal Orlando Resort has a diverse lineup of parks: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. You’ll have to let go of some dough to get into these. However, the entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, is completely free to wander and adult friendly!
Related Post: The Ultimate Universal Orlando CityWalk Restaurants Guide
If you’re still searching for what to do in Orlando for adults, this hangout has an exciting atmosphere you’ll want to get lost in. Come on the right night for live DJ sets and dance parties to amp up the fun!
Pro Tip: Universal Orlando Resort offers free parking each night after 6 p.m. Skip the Uber to save!
Get Inspired at Art Galleries
Explore the more sophisticated side of the town’s art scene, which is among the best adult things to do in Orlando. Whether you’re a seasoned art critic or prefer to make comical observations, the galleries in the city will give you plenty to discuss.
Take a break from the golf course and check out some spectacular art museums.
Visit on the right day for free admission to many local art galleries, like:
- Rollins Museum of Art: Always free.
- Mennello Museum of American Art: Free on the second Sunday of each month.
- The Morse Museum of American Art is free every Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., November through April.
Catch a Car Show
Classic car fanatics, mark your calendars! Every week on Friday and Saturday, you can roll into Old Town for a car cruise. The best part? These car shows are completely free.
If you’re into muscle cars, you’ll want to show up on Friday night. If classic cars are right in your wheelhouse, come on Saturday night. Like them all? We won’t blame you if you go on both nights.
As an Adult, What Are Your Favorite Things to Do in Orlando for Free?
So you see, there really are things to do in Orlando today for adults. While our list will leave you with plenty to do, we’re sure there are even more free ways to experience Orlando!
Traveling to exciting cities like this one doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. And with all these Orlando attractions for adults, you’ll stay super busy!
From laughing your yak off at Sak Comedy Lab or grabbing a drink at Hanson’s Shoe Repair to soaring sky-high in Icon Park when you visit Orlando, the activities are endless.
Related Post: 15 Fun & Free Things to Do in Orlando at Night
As you can see, the Orlando area is anything but overrated. Plan an entire vacation with Tripster to save big on hotels, attraction tickets, and more.
You’ll be crossing Orlando off your bucket list and placing those irreplaceable vacation memories in the photo album before.
Things to Do in Orlando for Adults FAQs
How Much Money Should I Bring to Orlando?
Planning your budget is a crucial part of any trip and if you're wondering how much money you should bring to Orlando, a safe bet would be to allocate a minimum of $75 per day per person. This figure allows for basic expenditures, such as meals, local transportation, and some small souvenirs.
Which Disney Place is Best for Adults?
When it comes to the Disney experience designed to entertain adult visitors, Epcot takes the top spot. With its informative and edutainment-centered set-up, Epcot offers a unique blend of culture, innovation, and fun-filled attractions perfect for grown-ups. From tasting international cuisine at the World Showcase to experiencing high-tech attractions at Future World, it's clear that Epcot is Disney's best place for adults.
Is Orlando Good For Adults?
Oh, absolutely! Don't let anyone fool you into thinking that the magic of Orlando is strictly for the kiddos. You don't have to be a kid to have the time of your life, thanks to the best Orlando theme parks for adults.
This city offers an intoxicating blend of adrenaline-pumping rides, world-class dining, and electrifying nightlife that is sure to appeal to the inner child in every adult!
Is It Worth Going To Orlando Without Disney?
Let's tackle a popular query - Is it worth it to go to Orlando, even if Mickey and pals aren't part of the itinerary? Good news! There are plenty of things to do in Orlando for those who crave a gentler thrill, offering a vibrant mix of activities beyond the world of theme parks.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Orlando Florida?
If the question on your mind is, "When is the absolute best time to immerse myself in the magic that Orlando, Florida, has to offer?" then look no further than the delightful window from March to May.
During this spring period, you'll find the city's famous amusement parks less crowded and the weather utterly delightful. It's truly the Goldilocks season - not too hot or cold, just right for exploring Orlando's myriad attractions and immersing yourself in a Floridian spring!
Does Orlando Have A Good Food Scene?
The answer should shake your taste buds awake! Orlando's evolving dining scene has been recognized with one of the world's highest culinary honors, a flavorful testament that this city is more than just theme parks and sunshine.
With an array of eclectic dishes, innovative chefs, and world-class restaurants, Orlando serves up a smorgasbord of flavors to satisfy every palate!
Did We Miss Any Of Your Favorite Things to Do Near Orlando Florida for Adults?
Let us know any things to do Orlando adults in the comments below!
Eager for more Orlando adventures? Our article has got you covered! Check it out.
