It's like the saying goes, the best things in life are free! And we've rounded up these fun, Floridian-favorite pastime activities that don't cost you anything. Who says there's no such thing as a free lunch? After all, some of the best things in life are free – starting with the great times you'll enjoy at Summer Bay Orlando by Exploria Resorts. Our family-oriented resort offers a full array of activities, with more than 80 complimentary features to enjoy on property! There's nothing like spending a few relaxing hours soaking up some sun, followed by a quick dip in the pool. Then the fun begins on the pool decks with entertainment, pool games, karaoke, and plenty of water – including Parrot's Landing Water Playground. For great family memories, round everyone up and head to the Recreation Pavilion where you'll find a movie theatre, arcade, video games, billiards room, resort lounge, and more. Compete for high score at Rocky Falls Mini Golf. Or grab a bike and explore the property. At Summer Bay Orlando, there's something for everyone. Horseshoes, bocce ball, shuffleboard, basketball, tennis, and bean bag toss courts – the list is almost endless. Just check out the daily activity schedule for everything you need to know. When it's time to recharge the batteries, adjourn to one of the grilling stations for a quick meal.After you're done relaxing and playing at the resort, take a break from the theme parks and explore Orlando's “other” side instead. From nature and the arts to nightlife, attractions, and downtowns with personality, Central Florida offers so many ways to explore – without spending a dime! Orlando's Popular Entertainment Districts Universal Orlando Resort's entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, is 30 energy-filled acres of restaurants, nightclubs, shopping, and more. Free activities include dance parties set to live DJ sets, and splash areas for the kids. You can even jump on a water taxi to one of the parks and take in the views. And the best perk? Parking is free after 6 p.m.! Enjoy a magical time at Walt Disney World Resort® without stepping foot in the parks. At the Disney Springs® dining, shopping, and entertainment district, you can soak in some Disney magic with free family fun that includes lives performances. For a view of the parks that most visitors never see, hop on the free ferries that travel to Magic Kingdom® Park, EPCOT®, and Disney's Hollywood Studios®. Orlando's I-Drive District is always a happening place. When you're done walking around International Drive, spend a leisurely evening exploring the ICON Park entertainment, dining, and shopping hub. You can't miss The Wheel, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel lit up so brightly that it's visible for miles. The Town That Disney Built Celebration is a master-planned community less than 10 minutes from Walt Disney World. You'll find lots of wooded areas, parks, and paths to explore, perfect for strolling and bicycling. And Celebration Town Center is home to bakeries, boutiques, restaurants, entertainment, and a playful water fountain. (Check out Town Tavern, a local favorite.) Don't miss the free, family-focused events that take place year-round, such as exotic car shows and a special holiday celebration complete with faux snow! It's an experience your family will always remember. Kissimmee and Old Florida Just minutes from Disney at Old Town, you'll get a real feel for “Old Florida” communities – complete with authentic architecture and distinctive storefronts. In addition to 10 acres of paid attractions, restaurants, bars, and shopping, Old Town also has free events featuring live entertainment and classic car shows, including the Saturday night classic car cruise. Another 20 minutes down the road, explore the amazing history of Osceola County and life in early Florida at the Osceola History Museum. Take an interactive tour to experience how people lived in the late 1800s at Pioneer Village, hear fun facts (and the sounds of Florida wildlife), and enjoy award-winning exhibits at the History Museum. Lakeland's Natural Side Just 45 minutes southwest of the resort, Polk's Nature Discovery Center sits on one of the county's treasured environmental areas, Circle B Bar Reserve. This nature reserve is ideal for hiking and viewing wildlife, especially for birding. The discovery center has an impressive, free museum about Florida ecology where you can learn about the bird, otter, bobcat, fox, armadillo, and other wildlife species that make the Reserve their home. Family Fun in Downtown Orlando On the last Friday of every month between April and August at downtown Orlando's Lake Eola Park, enjoy a free movie under the stars at Movieola. Movie nights showcase family-friendly films, and the event begins at 6 p.m. with the movie starting around 8:15. Don't forget to bring blankets and snacks. Or, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays, you can sample some local flavor at the Orlando Farmers' Market at Lake Eola Park. A walk around the lake will give you a chance to enjoy the beautiful fountain and gliding swans. Keep an eye out for swan-shaped paddleboats, popular for keeping cool in sunny Orlando. Charming Winter Park The Winter Park Farmers' Market building is home to this area's most popular market as well as the Winter Park History Museum, where you can pick up a free walking tour brochure that showcases 21 historic sites around town. Held Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Farmers' Market takes place inside and outside of the former train depot. On the second Thursday of each month almost year-round, the city partners with Maitland's Enzian Theater to host Popcorn Flicks in the Park in Central Park, which borders picturesque Park Avenue. The movies are suitable for all ages and begin at sunset. If you have time, consider a stop at Kraft Azalea Garden before the film. Located on the shores of Lake Maitland, this beautiful venue is perfect for picnicking and hiking – and a sight to behold. Vacation at Summer Bay Orlando There are so many options when you spend your vacation in Orlando – and they don't have to break the budget! Check out these Summer Bay Orlando specials and book your stay directly online with us and receive a $25 resort credit to use on your amenities.
