1. Explore Ocala National Forest. This natural habitat is unknown territory to the casual visitor, but locals are already making the most of this eco-tourism opportunity. The National Forest is home to real Florida swamps, a 60-mile hiking trail and you can even catch a glimpse of a real Florida gator in the streams and lakes.
2. Shop at Fleaworld. No, this place isn't a house of fleas but a place to snag a few bargains on clothes, toys and other merchandise. You'll find Fleaworld just a short drive north of Orlando, and the locale features over 1,500 vendors from around the State. It's free admission all day from Friday through Sunday, and you and the family can enjoy the circus atmosphere at Fleaworld's Funworld with its acrobatic performances, animals and nightly shows.
3. Go on a Free Cruise. You don't have to envy cruise travelers heading off to that (expensive) Bahamian vacation any longer; Port Canaveral is your spot to catch the Sterling Casino Line, a five-deck cruise ship that heads out to sea every day. This cruise ship is loaded with activities, so you'll never be bored on the five-hour vacation. Enjoy live music, head to the bar for a cocktail and just enjoy the view!
4. Book Yourself a Beer Tour. If you're a fan of local brews, don't miss out on the brewery tours available at Orlando Brewing Company. It's the only organic brewery in the entire State, and offers free tours every night. You can also sample a few microbrews on tap, then blog about the experience over the free Wi-Fi connection.
5. Go on An Alligator Hunt. Get up close and personal (all right, not thisclose) with real Florida alligators! The Black Hammock Adventures tours on Lake Jesup is the place to see alligators and birds in their natural habitat, and then head off to the local café for a few snacks. Gator exhibits and airboat rides are just a few key attractions at this popular place; stay late for live entertainment at the bar every weekend.
6. Make It a Movie and Popcorn Night - outdoors! Make your way to Winter Park, a semi-upscale hub just north of Orlando, to watch classic movies in Central Park downtown. The second Thursday of each month is free movie night, and all you need is your picnic gear and a blanket to settle in for movie night.
7. Get into the Mickey Spirit at Downtown Disney. You won't find Mickey and friends in this territory, but you will find plenty of souvenir shops, a giant Disney store and plenty of Disney-inspired shops and restaurants to get you in the Disney spirit. Whether you're shopping, exploring or taking in some live music near the lake, Downtown Disney is a free way to take in a mini-Disney experience.
If it's theme parks you're after, don't forget that SeaWorld, Universal Studios and other parks also offer free 2nd day admission packages throughout the year, and you can invest in an annual pass to the theme parks if you plan to return in a few months!
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