Florida can be an expensive place to live or visit (if you want to have fun); however, there are plenty of fun, free things to do in Florida. Most people just don’t know about all of the free stuff to do in Florida, but there are actually several options when it comes to affordable adventures in the Sunshine State. Here are a few of our favorites things to do in Florida for free (though some appreciate donations).
1. Florida Beaches
Florida beaches are some of the best in the country, where you can enjoy a perfect day for little to no cost. Siesta Beach, pictured here, has sand made of 99% quartz, so it's cool on your toes, even on the hottest days. With thousands of miles of coastline, it's easy to find the perfect beach near you.
2. National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola
Come check out more than 150 historic aircraft at this 35-acre indoor/outdoor naval aviation museum, which is the world's largest. It's fun and fascinating for kids and adults. Best of all, it's totally free! The museum does close to the public from time to time, so make sure to check the National Naval Aviation Museum website prior to visiting.
3. Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando
On the first Monday of every month you can get free admission to this "50-acre botanical oasis" in Orlando, which is by far among the best hidden gems in Florida. There's free storytelling for little ones on these days as well.
4. Museum of Florida History, Tallahassee
One of the best museums in Florida, this museum will teach you everything you've ever wanted to know about the history and culture of Florida's many inhabitants, with artifacts and exhibits you won't find anywhere else. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
5. San Sebastian Winery, St. Augustine
One of several wineries in Florida, this awesome winery in St. Augustine (along with its sister winery in Clermont, Lakeridge Winery) offers free tours seven days a week. There's also a lovely rooftop that features tasty food and live music.
6. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, Key West
Admission is free to this natural history museum, where families can learn all about the plants and animals of the beautiful Florida Keys. Make sure to check the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center website for closures prior to visiting.
7. Spook Hill, Lake Wales
When it comes to mysterious places in Florida, Spook Hill definitely fits the bill! Legend has it that anyone who parks at the bottom of Spook Hill and puts their car in neutral will roll up the hill. Spooky, indeed.
8. Wakadohatchee Wetlands, Delray Beach
There are plenty of free and affordable things to do in the Great Outdoors in Florida. Most state parks are beautiful and charge a small entrance fee, but there are also parks that are totally free. (Of course, most of them appreciate donations.) The Wakadohatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach is a nice place to walk on a boardwalk and view lots of native Florida wildlife. The park was once unused utility land that has been successfully transformed into a lovely recreation area.
9. Ideal Classic Cars Museum & Showroom, Venice
Ideal Classic Cars Museum and Showroom is a 27,000-square-foot showroom that's full of collectible cars dating from the 1920s through the 1970s, including hot rods, muscle cars and originals. And if you're looking to buy, they are all for sale. This isn’t the only must-visit for auto lovers, though. There’s also this auto museum in Florida.
10. Key West Garden Club, West Martello Tower, Key West
The way the garden has taken over the crumbling Civil War-era fortification gives it the feeling of a secret and sacred place. Not only is it full of exotic plants, including colorful orchids and massive banyans, the entire garden is located right on the beach, with breathtaking views of the ocean. It's truly one of the most beautiful places in Florida.
11. Wynwood Walls, Miami
This huge open street art museum in Miami features tons of graffiti and murals in the hip Wynwood Art District. Bring your camera for this unforgettable experience. Wynwood Walls is only free for children 12 and under; however, we chose to include it because, well, it’s just too good not to mention.
12. Sunset Celebrations
We love to have fun in Florida, and we'll find almost any reason to party. So in Key West and Clearwater, even the sun setting is good enough! Crowds gather at Mallory Square a couple hours before sunset to watch performers and hear live music. And when the sun goes down, the party is just beginning!
13. Cummer Museum & Gardens, Jacksonville
The Cummer Museum is a Jacksonville landmark. Stroll through the beautiful gardens on the St. John's River and tour the ever-changing exhibits. The museum does charge for admission; however, on select days, the admission is waived. Visit the Cummer Museum website for details.
14. St. Augustine Distillery
Anyone who's ever wondered how spirits are made can catch a free tour every 30 minutes at this distillery in historic St. Augustine. Don't worry about finding a babysitter, children are allowed to tour (but obviously not taste). Great sites like this are just one of the reasons, St. Augustine is touted as one of the best small town vacations in America.
Now that you’ve been enlightened on the state’s options for fee-free fun, the next time you’re thinking about what to do in Florida for free, you’ll have plenty of options. How many of these awesome things have you tried? Do you know of any other free things to do in Florida? Tell us!
If you’ve got a few bucks to spend, consider embarking on one (or all!) of these fun day trips in Florida.
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