Orlando is home to several of the country’s premier amusement parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and LEGOLAND. Several major theme parks and attractions offer dining, complimentary entertainment and shopping opportunities without the purchase of admission passes, including the following recommendations from the city's official tourism guide, Visit Orlando:

• Disney Springs – Offers access to 120 acres of boutiques, restaurants, entertainment and free parking. The complimentary transportation system also connects visitors to Disney resort hotels where more dining and entertainment options are available.
• Disney’s BoardWalk – Features free admission and evening entertainment, including jugglers, comedians and fire-eaters. Free parking is limited. Like Disney Springs, it is connected to Disney’s complimentary transportation system.
• ICON Park – Provides restaurants, bars and attractions. While parking and admission are free, tickets are required for onsite attractions such as The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel that towers over International Drive. 
• Universal CityWalk – Offers themed restaurants, nightclubs, a movie theater, shopping and entertainment. Parking is free after 6 p.m. most nights. Visitors also can board the free water taxi service to cruise canals that meander throughout Universal Orlando Resort. Hop off the boat to explore the resorts and entertainment along the way, including Musica della Notte, a free evening of music at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.
• Old Town – Re-creates the look and feel of a classic Florida town with more than 70 shops and restaurants. Admission is free as are weekly events such as karaoke, classic car shows and live music.

Beyond the theme parks

Orlando offers plenty of other entertainment, social and outdoor recreational activities outside the large theme park resorts, including:

• Lake Nona Sculpture Garden – The 50,000-square-foot outdoor space adjacent to the Lake Nona Wave Hotel features lush landscaping and a collection of world-renowned sculptures.
• Wekiwa Springs State Park – The park offers many outdoor activities including birding, fishing, hiking, paddling, snorkeling and swimming.
• USTA National Campus – The campus features the Nemours Family Zone 60-foot and 36-foot courts – available at no charge when programming is not scheduled. Those who have never participated in USTA programming can enjoy a free 30-minute lesson for tennis, pickleball or padel.
• Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards – Orlando’s largest premium winery features free tours with tastings daily. Lasting about 30 to 40 minutes, the tours take wine enthusiasts through the production area and provide a view of the 80-acre vineyards.

Check out VisitOrlando.com for more opportunities.

Photo courtesy of VisitOrlando.com
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