These free things to do at Disney World cover the best free attractions & experiences, perfect for budget-conscious Disney lovers.
Disney World is the dream holiday for many but it can also be super expensive. That is why we are sharing these free things to do at Disney World, so you can fill your trip with fun things to do without spending a fortune.
Free Things to do at Disney World
1. Visit Disney Springs
This one is an obvious choice. Disney Springs offers unique shopping and fantastic dining options but it is also a great place to hang out. With interactive shops that offer free samples, live music each night outside the amphitheater and street entertainers too, Disney Springs should be visited on any trip to Disney World.
Tips: Arrive in the evening for live music and a lively atmosphere. You can also enjoy the free water features and beautifully themed walkways throughout the complex.
2. See animals in the Savanna
Visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge to check out some of the wonderful animals around the resort. This is one of the best Disney hotels for adults and one of our top picks.
Pick up an Animal viewing guide from the concierge to find out more information about the inhabitants and where to find them.
Tip – head up to the second floor for a great view.
3. The Lego Store – Disney Springs
If you or your kids love Lego, you have to visit the Lego Store in Disney Springs. There are interactive play areas and impressive lego creations around the store, making this a great addition to your Disney World day.
4. Disney’s Boardwalk
This scenic Disney boardwalk is an ideal place to spend an evening. With free samples from the Ample Hills Creamery, live entertainers, gorgeous views across the water and plenty of outdoor seating areas, unwinding here at night is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening.
5. Movie Under the Stars
Head to Fort Wilderness to enjoy a Movie Under the Stars. Many Disney hotels offer this if you are staying on-site (check with the concierge) but Fort Wilderness is open to everyone, even if you are not staying at a Disney hotel. Watch a Disney movie just after sundown – the perfect way to relax after a long day at the parks.
6. Watch the fireworks
You don’t have to be in the Magic Kingdom to watch the fireworks. Head to the Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Wilderness Lodge or the concourse at The Contemporary to catch the Electrical Water Pageant and the fireworks from here.
7. Resort hopping for themed sightseeing
You don’t need a park ticket to explore the unique resorts at Walt Disney World. Each hotel has its own theme, architecture, and atmosphere, making it fun to walk through lobbies, stroll the grounds, and enjoy scenic spots.
For example, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa features Victorian-style elegance, while Disney’s Wilderness Lodge showcases a Pacific Northwest lodge vibe complete with fireplaces and wood accents. You can also take the free monorail or boat rides between resorts for a relaxing evening with great views.
Tips: Check resort boards or front desks for free activities like campfires or outdoor movie nights. Evening visits are particularly nice with cooler air and beautiful resort lighting. Always be respectful of resort guests and follow property rules.
8. Enjoy the boat rides
There are a few different boat rides to enjoy around Disney World. Take the ferry boat at Magic Kingdom or take the cruise between Disney Springs and Port Orleans. Better still, jump on the Friendship Boats between Hollywood Studios and Epcot, stopping at Boardwalk, the Yacht and Beach Club and the Swan and Dolphin too.
9. Find Mickeys
Head to the Wilderness Lodge and pick up a free ‘Hidden Mickey Hunt’ guide at the front desk. This will give you hints as to where to find Mickeys around the resort. Many are inside so this is a great activity on a rainy day.
10. Grand Floridian Live music
Stop by the Grand Floridian Resort for daily musical performances by the Society Orchestra. They play throughout the day, next to the lobby so you can’t miss them. You can also catch a solo pianist playing classic Disney music between the full shows.
11. The Skyliner
Jump on Walt Disney World’s latest form of transportation – the Skyliner. This gondola ride carries you between Epcot, Hollywood Studios and a handful of resorts for free.
12. Art classes
Head over to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort to enjoy some free drawing classes, open to any Walt Disney World resort guests. These lessons begin at 11 am, 2 pm and 5 pm. Hollywood Studios Animation Academy also offers classes but these are less frequent.
13. Campfire
Every evening, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground holds the Chip ‘n’ Dales Campfire Sing-Along; a chance to sing alongside some Disney characters. Alternatively, both Animal Kingdom Lodge and Port Orleans Riverside offer campfires with storytelling.
14. Concerts
Head to the America Gardens Theatre near Epcot’s American Pavilion, to enjoy concerts throughout the year. During winter, this becomes a candlelight processional Christmas story but a full calendar is available here.
15. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant from the Seven Seas Lagoon
The Electrical Water Pageant is a nightly light and music show that floats on the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. You can watch it from the shoreline of several resorts, including the Polynesian Village Resort, Grand Floridian Resort, and the Contemporary Resort, completely for free.
The parade features illuminated floats shaped like sea creatures, synchronized to fun music, creating a classic Disney nighttime experience without needing a park ticket.
Tips: Arrive early along the shoreline for a good view and bring a blanket or chair if you want to sit. The show typically starts around 9:15–10:00 p.m., but times can vary depending on the season. Check resort schedules before you go.
Things to Know Before You Go to Orlando
Free things to do in Disney World FAQ
Are there activities at Disney World that don’t require a park ticket?
Yes! Many experiences are free, including exploring Disney Springs, resort hopping, watching the Electrical Water Pageant, enjoying resort pools or lobbies, and taking scenic walks around the property.
What is resort hopping and is it really free?
Resort hopping means visiting different Disney hotels to explore their unique themes, architecture, and grounds. Walking through lobbies, exploring outdoor areas, and taking in themed decorations are free. You can even ride the monorail or boats between resorts without entering the parks.
Can I watch fireworks for free without a park ticket?
Yes. You can often view Magic Kingdom fireworks from select Disney resorts such as the Polynesian Village Resort or Contemporary Resort. While the view may not be as close as inside the park, it still offers a magical experience without paying for admission.
What is the Electrical Water Pageant?
The Electrical Water Pageant is a nightly light and music parade on the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. You can watch it for free from the shorelines of resorts like the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, or Contemporary Resort.
Is Disney Springs really free to visit?
Yes, walking around Disney Springs, enjoying live entertainment, and exploring themed areas is completely free. You only pay if you choose to shop or eat at the restaurants. Street performers, music, and interactive displays make it a fun experience without spending money.
Are there any free activities for kids?
Yes. Kids can enjoy exploring resort lobbies, playgrounds at select resorts, interactive fountains, and live entertainment at Disney Springs. Some resorts also offer free evening campfires and movie nights.
Can I take photos at resorts and Disney Springs for free?
Absolutely. Photography is allowed at resorts and Disney Springs, just be respectful of guests and staff. Resort lobbies, gardens, and themed walkways are especially photogenic.
What is the best time to enjoy free activities at Disney World?
Early morning and evening are ideal. Resorts are quieter early in the day, while Disney Springs and the Electrical Water Pageant are best enjoyed in the evening for cooler temperatures and nighttime ambiance.
Do I need a car or can I use Disney transportation?
You can use Disney transportation like buses, boats, and the monorail to travel between resorts and Disney Springs, which is free for guests. For non-guests, driving is also an option with standard parking policies.
Are free activities crowded?
Some, like Disney Springs or resort lobbies during holiday periods, can get busy. Visiting early, on weekdays, or during off-peak seasons can help you enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Well, those are the free things to do at Disney World – we hope you have a great trip and make the most out of the cheaper attractions in WDW. Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below.
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