I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m that adult who goes to Disney World every year. My first trip to Disney was in 2021 when I was 31 years old. Ever since then, the Disney magic has lured me back every single year! But – I will admit that Disney can get very expensive very fast! So I’m writing this post today to share 50 of my favorite FREE things to do at Disney World for those looking to experience the magic of Disney World without breaking the bank!
The good news is that there are plenty of ways to enjoy Disney World without going to the theme parks! Park tickets are probably one of the largest expenses of any Disney World trip. Of course, the parks are beautiful and I would encourage everyone to visit them at least once in their lifetime. However, if you’re someone who likes to go frequently to Disney World, the cost of park tickets can add up.
Most of the time when I visit Disney, I skip the parks. I usually just relax at my resort and take advantage of all the free things to do at Disney World! From checking out their beautiful resorts to monorail hopping to watching the fireworks at night – there’s no shortage of fun activities at Disney World that won’t cost you a dime.
So, if you’re wondering how to experience Disney magic without a park ticket, here’s a list of 50 free things to do in Disney World to add a little extra pixie dust to your trip for absolutely free!
Take Advantage of Free Transportation At Disney World
The Disney Skyliner – September 2022
Many visitors may not know just how amazing Disney World’s transportation is. Mastering Disney transportation is a valuable skill because you can use it to access many free experiences throughout Disney World!
There are 3 key facts here to keep in mind:
- The entrance for each transportation mode is located outside of the parks’ entrance so you don’t need a park ticket to access it
- You don’t have to be staying at a Disney resort to use the transportation. They do not check ID’s or hotel reservations when you go on board
- You can go go inside the resorts and access many activities for free even if you’re not staying at the resort! Of course there are some amenities and activities that restricted to guests only. However, you’ll be surprised at how many free resort activities are available to all visitors whether or not you’re staying at that resort!
How do you get to the monorail, boat, or Skyliner? If you are staying at a Disney World resort, you can take a free Disney bus from your resort to one of the central points from which the monorail, bus, or Skyliner originates (more details below). If you are staying off-property, you will have to take a taxi.
For example: if I am staying at Coronado Springs Resort, I take the bus to Magic Kingdom, get off, and then take the monorail from there. If I want to get on the boat, I take the bus from my resort to Disney Springs and go to one of the boat launch points there.
1. Ride the monorail
One of my favorite free things to do at Disney World is what I call “monorail hopping”. Disney World’s monorail goes in a continuous loop to 5 stops: Contemporary Resort, Magic Kingdom, Ticketing & Transportation Center, Polynesian Village Resort, and the Grand Floridian.
You can ride the monorail for as long as you want or you can get off and explore one of the resorts it stops at. Why check out resorts? Keep reading to learn about free activities & experiences at the resorts that you can enjoy without being a guest.
The Grand Floridian and Polynesian Village resorts are also two of Disney World’s most beautiful & picturesque deluxe resorts that are worth stopping at. Plus, there are lots of exclusive Disney treats & iconic restaurants here (that you of course have to pay for) that you won’t want to miss!
The monorail entrance is located just outside the Magic Kingdom entrance so you will not need a park ticket or be a guest at a Disney resort to use it.
2. Take a free boat ride
Disney offers several complimentary boat rides from Disney Springs, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, & Magic Kingdom that take guests and visitors to select resorts. Click here for a listing of all the current ferry routes.
To access the boats, I usually take the Disney bus from my resort to Disney Springs or Hollywood Studios first. From there, I hop on the boat for a relaxing ride or to explore one of the resorts with a ferry stop. The ferry is a great way to access Port Orleans resort which has many fun & free activities that you’ll read about below!
3. Ride the Disney Skyliner for a scenic aerial view
The Disney Skyliner is a free gondola system that offers beautiful aerial views of the parks and resorts. The Skyliner connects Hollywood Studios & Epcot to the Art of Animation Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, Pop Century Resort, & Disney’s Riviera resorts.
The entrance to the Skyliner is located outside of the park entrance, so you will not need a park ticket to hop on board. Even if you just go for a round trip, it is a fun ride that you can get for completely free! You can also get off & explore the resorts that it connects to for free even if you’re not staying at the resort!
4. Take a Disney bus
Certain resorts, like Coronado Springs Resort & Animal Kingdom Lodge, only have bus transportation. The best way to get to these resorts is by first taking a bus from your resort to a central point like Disney Springs or one of the theme parks. Once you’re at Disney Springs, you can take another bus to your desired resort.
Free Entertainment & Nighttime Spectacles
Fireworks at Magic Kingdom – March 2024
5. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant
This classic Disney experience features a parade of illuminated floats gliding across the Seven Seas Lagoon. The show takes place nightly and can be viewed from several resort areas, including the Polynesian Village Resort, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary Resort.
6. Watch fireworks from outside the parks
A little insider secret is that you don’t have to go into the theme parks to enjoy Disney’s famous fireworks shows! Great viewing spots include the beaches at the Polynesian Resort, the Grand Floridian, and the Contemporary Resort.
My favorite viewing spot is the Polynesian Village Resort because you get a direct view of the fireworks. This resorts sits just opposite Magic Kingdom, allowing for beautiful views of the fireworks without having to pay a hefty price for a park ticket! Here is a really comprehensive & complete list of all the places to watch the fireworks for free!
7. Enjoy entertainment at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a “downtown” area that is packed with free entertainment, from live musicians to pop-up performances. It’s also a shopping oasis where you can buy Disney merchandise and enjoy a fantastic dining experience. Check out the Disney Springs website to view a calendar of all the free events & experiences.
8. Enjoy live Irish music at Raglan Road’s patio in Disney Springs
Catch free Irish music and dancing performances outside this popular pub. They have benches and seating outside the restaurant so you can enjoy the music even if you are not dining here.
9. Watch a Free Outdoor Movie
Many Disney resorts host complimentary “Movies Under the Stars”, where guests can watch classic Disney films on a big screen while relaxing on the lawn. Bring a blanket and enjoy a relaxing evening under the night sky while watching your favorite Disney stories come to life. Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you’re welcome to attend and enjoy the experience!
Free Interactive Activities
The Lego Store at Disney Springs – May 2023
10. Participate in a Disney Resort scavenger hunt
Many Disney resorts offer free scavenger hunts that take you on an adventure through the property while uncovering hidden details and secrets. You can pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the front desk of resorts like Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Lodge, or Art of Animation and complete fun challenges along the way. Once you finish, you may even receive a small prize or certificate as a souvenir!
11. Play with LEGO at the LEGO Store’s Free Play Stations
The LEGO Store at Disney Springs has interactive play areas where kids and adults can build their own creations. You’ll find large tables filled with LEGO bricks, encouraging creativity and hands-on fun. It’s a great place to take a break, let your imagination run wild, and even spot incredible life-sized LEGO sculptures of Disney characters!
12. Look for “Hidden Mickeys” at Disney Resorts
Another little Disney secret is the “hidden Mickeys” that you can search for in the resorts. Disney Imagineers have hidden Mickey-shaped designs throughout the resorts, making it a fun challenge to find them.
Some are obvious – like in carpets or artwork – while others are cleverly disguised in architecture or furniture. This is why resort hopping at Disney World can be so much fun! You never know where you might spot the next Mickey!
13. Visit the interactive fountains At Disney Springs
Disney Springs has several interactive fountains where kids (and adults!) can splash & play for free. These fountains shoot up refreshing bursts of water in unpredictable patterns, making them a fun way to cool off on a hot Florida day.
You’ll find them in a few locations around Disney Springs, with the most popular spots near the Marketplace and the Town Center. In the evenings, the fountains are beautifully lit, adding an extra magical touch to end your day!
Free Things To Do in Disney Springs
14. Visit the chocolate experience at The Ganachery
Step into The Ganachery at Disney Springs and immerse yourself in a world of handcrafted chocolates. This boutique chocolate shop offers a unique behind-the-scenes experience where you can watch skilled chocolatiers create intricate Disney-themed treats right before your eyes.
Even if you don’t buy anything, the shop’s cozy ambiance and charming design make it a delightful place to explore. Be sure to chat with the chocolatiers, who often share fun facts about their craft and may even offer free samples of their latest creations!
15. Check out the vintage cars at The Boathouse
The Boathouse at Disney Springs is more than just a waterfront restaurant—it’s also home to an impressive collection of vintage cars, including the famous Amphicars that can drive straight into the water! The Amphicars are a rare sight, as they are fully functional vehicles that seamlessly transition from land to water – how cool!
While rides in these unique cars come at a cost, watching them launch into the water is completely free and a fun spectacle for car lovers of all ages!
16. Browse the art galleries at Disney Springs.
Disney Springs is home to several art galleries that showcase stunning Disney-inspired artwork. The Art of Disney gallery features beautiful paintings, sketches, and sculptures of beloved Disney characters, often created by talented Disney artists. You might even be lucky enough to catch an artist at work, sketching or signing their latest pieces right in the store.
There are also other galleries around Disney Springs that display unique and imaginative pieces that celebrate Disney’s rich storytelling legacy.
17. Visit the Coca-Cola Rooftop Bar for great views
Located atop the Coca-Cola Store in Disney Springs, the rooftop bar provides one of the best free views of the area! You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the open-air terrace.
From here, you can take in stunning panoramic views of Disney Springs, including the sparkling waters of Lake Buena Vista and the bustling shopping district below. If you visit in the evening, you can even catch a glimpse of Disney’s nighttime lights reflecting off the lake!
18. Watch the glassblowers at Arribas Brothers.
Crystal Arts by Arribas Brothers, located in Disney Springs, is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by intricate craftsmanship. Here, you can find beautiful glass masterpieces such as Disney-themed figurines, ornaments, crystal jewelry, and even custom engravings.
You can also watch the glassblowers creating delicate, shimmering works of art! While the items are available for purchase, simply watching the artists at work is an experience in itself.
19. Snap a picture with the iconic Disney Springs fountain
Disney Springs is filled with great photo spots, and one of the most famous is the large, elegant fountain located near the entrance. Its classic design, combined with the surrounding architecture, makes it a must-stop location for visitors looking to snap a fun, memorable picture. Plus, since it’s free, it’s an easy way to bring home a special Disney memory without spending a dime!
20. Take a walk along the Sassagoula River
The Sassagoula River is a hidden gem within Disney property, offering a peaceful and scenic walkway that stretches from Disney Springs to the Port Orleans resorts. The winding pathway takes you past lush greenery, charming bridges, and tranquil water views, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll. You can also take a free boat ride along the river which starts at the Disney Springs and will take you to the Port Orleans resorts.
21. Browse through The Star Wars Trading Post
Star Wars fans will love stepping into the Star Wars Trading Post, a shop in Disney Springs that feels like a mini trip to a galaxy far, far away. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the world of Star Wars.
It features themed decor, life-sized props, and a vast collection of merchandise. This is a fun way to get a taste of Star Wars without stepping into Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios. You might even spot cast members dressed as Resistance fighters or Jedi, adding to the immersive experience!
22. Window shop at the Marketplace Co-Op
The Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs is more than just a store—it’s a collection of unique boutique-style shops that showcase a variety of Disney merchandise. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s fun to browse the different themed sections, which include home décor, fashion, and vintage-style Disney collectibles. You can often find cool and exclusive items to purchase here that you won’t see in other Disney stores!
23. Explore the M&M store at Disney Springs
Step into a colorful world of chocolate at the M&M Store in Disney Springs. While the candy itself isn’t free, the experience of visiting this massive, brightly colored shop is worth it! You can explore walls lined with every M&M color imaginable and even use their interactive screen to design your own personalized candy. The shop often features fun photo ops and unique displays, making it a great stop for families and candy lovers.
24. Get free chocolate samples at Ghirardelli
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to stop at the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in Disney Springs. This famous shop often hands out free samples of their decadent chocolates to guests as they walk in. While you’re there, take a moment to browse their displays and admire the delicious chocolate creations they offer.
25. Get free samples at Goofy’s Candy Company
Get some more free candy at Goofy’s Candy Company in Disney Springs! This is a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth, and sometimes they offer free samples of their delicious treats. You might get to try a piece of their fresh fudge, caramel popcorn, or other handmade sweets.
Even if there aren’t samples available, it’s still fun to watch the cast members create colorful candy apples, Mickey-shaped marshmallow treats, and other Disney-themed confections.
26. Find the Giant Troll at the Norway Pavilion in Disney Springs
Deep in the heart of Disney Springs, you can find a hidden nod to Epcot’s Norway Pavilion—a giant troll statue inside the Norway-themed shop, The Fjording.
This quirky and fun statue makes for a great photo opportunity and is a beloved icon among Disney fans. The shop itself sells Norwegian-inspired souvenirs, but you don’t need to buy anything to enjoy browsing through the cultural displays and Viking-themed merchandise.
27. Explore the Christmas Tree Trail (Seasonal at Disney Springs)
During the holiday season, Disney Springs transforms into a winter wonderland with the Christmas Tree Trail. The trail features elaborately decorated trees inspired by different Disney movies and characters. Each tree has its own theme, making it a magical experience for Disney fans of all ages.
The trail is beautifully lit up in the evenings and often features snowfall effects, holiday music, and even surprise character appearances. It’s completely free to walk through and makes for a festive way to soak in the holiday spirit without needing a park ticket.
28. Relax at the Disney Springs Dockside
For a peaceful and scenic spot to unwind, head to the docks at Disney Springs. These areas provide a perfect view of the water, especially during sunset. The docks are an ideal place to take a break and watch the boats go by. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or a romantic spot to enjoy the views, this hidden gem is a great addition to your free Disney itinerary.
Free Things To Do At Disney’s Themed Resorts
Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel – March 2024
As I mentioned above, there is a lot to see & do within the Disney resorts! It’s so much fun to go “resort hopping” and see how each Disney resort has its own unique flair. Plus, if you’re a foodie like me, each resort also has unique eateries that you won’t want to miss! You can use the Disney transportation system I described above to get to these resorts for free.
Disney’s Boardwalk Resorts
29. Explore Disney’s BoardWalk
Step into the charm of Disney’s BoardWalk, a lively area designed to resemble a 1920s Atlantic City boardwalk. You can stroll along the water, watch street performers, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to take photos and feel the Disney magic without spending a penny!
You can take a bus from your resort to Hollywood Studios, then catch a boat to either the Boardwalk Inn, Beach Club or Yacht Club resorts to access the boardwalk.
30. Walk around the Yacht & Beach Club resorts
While you are at the Boardwalk, take a moment to check out the Yacht Club & Beach Club resorts. This hotel boasts beautiful waterfront views and gorgeous New-England style architecture.
If you’re looking for character dining (which is of course a paid experience), be sure to check out Cape May Cafe. They feature a character dining breakfast buffet called Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast where Minnie & her friends walk around dressed up in their cutest summer outfits!
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
31. Visit the Grand Floridian lobby
The Grand Floridian Resort is an iconic Disney resort that is absolutely gorgeous and worth a visit! It offers an elegant and luxurious atmosphere, and you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy it. Stop by the grand lobby, where you might catch live piano music or seasonal decorations, making it a wonderful place to relax.
32. Take a self-guided tour of Disney’s Riviera Resort
Take a trip on the Disney Skyliner to visit Disney’s Riviera Resort, a beautiful European-themed resort inspired by the grandeur of the Mediterranean. Wander through elegant hallways adorned with Disney-themed artwork that pays homage to classic films and famous European destinations.
Don’t miss the stunning murals at the Skyliner station, which feature breathtaking depictions of scenes from Tangled and Peter Pan, making for a perfect photo opportunity.
33. Visit the Wedding Pavilion at the Grand Floridian Resort
Located near the Grand Floridian Resort, Disney’s Wedding Pavilion is a beautiful and serene spot to visit. While you can’t enter the chapel unless there’s an event, you can still walk around the area and enjoy the picturesque setting – and dream of your own fairytale wedding!
The view from the pavilion includes Cinderella’s Castle in the distance, making it a hidden romantic gem within Disney property.
34. Listen to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra
Inside the Grand Floridian Resort, you can sometimes catch the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra playing live music in the lobby. Their elegant performances add to the resort’s luxurious atmosphere, making it a fantastic free experience for guests. If you love jazz and Disney classics, this is a great way to enjoy some live entertainment without spending money!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort
35. Visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge
I visited the Animal Kingdom Lodge on my last trip to Disney – and let me tell you, this place is such a hidden gem! Animal Kingdom Lodge is home to its own mini safari, where you can watch giraffes, zebras, and other animals roaming the savanna. The viewing areas are open to all visitors, making it a fantastic free activity for animal lovers!
36. Visit African Art & cultural displays at the Animal Kingdom Lodge
Animal Kingdom Lodge isn’t just about the animals—it also features one of the largest collections of authentic African art outside of Africa. As you explore the resort, you’ll find intricately designed masks, sculptures, and paintings, each with fascinating stories behind them. Cast members are often available to share details about the art and African culture.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
37. Relax at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge transports you to the majestic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. As you step inside the grand lobby, you’ll be greeted by towering totem poles, a massive stone fireplace, and intricate woodwork that evokes the feeling of a grand national park lodge. This resort also features stunning views of Bay Lake, and if you’re lucky, you might spot wildlife along the shore!
38. Take a nature walk at Fort Wilderness
This is a great free activity for nature enthusiasts & hikers! Fort Wilderness offers beautiful wooded trails where you can take a peaceful stroll surrounded by nature. Along the way, you might see deer, rabbits, armadillos, and even wild turkeys roaming freely! The trails provide a quiet escape from the busier areas of Disney World and let you experience a different side of Disney magic.
39. See horses at the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Fort Wilderness
For a truly unique and free Disney experience, head to the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. This horse ranch is home to the beautiful horses that pull Cinderella’s carriage and work on Main Street, U.S.A.
You can walk around the stables, see different horse breeds, and even see historic wagons and equipment on display. If you’re lucky, you might even witness cast members grooming or training the horses!
40. Visit the butterfly gardens at Fort Wilderness
Tucked away in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, the Butterfly Garden is truly a hidden gem! This small but beautiful garden is filled with native plants that attract colorful butterflies, creating a peaceful environment where you can observe these delicate creatures up close.
The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the butterflies are most active. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and photographers looking for a quiet moment away from the crowds!
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
41. Stroll through the Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian Village Resort is one of my favorite resorts in all of Disney World! Walk through lush pathways, listen to island music, and soak in the island vibes in this relaxing tropical paradise. You can even ask to have a lei placed on you!
This is a great place to watch Magic Kingdom fireworks and the electrical water pageant mentioned above. All of these activities are free for all visitors, even if you are not staying at the resort. Plus, the Polynesian resort is home to some of the most iconic Disney eats – the pineapple Dole whip, Tonga toast, Ohana bread pudding, and the Ohana noodles. You can purchase these delicious treats at one of the many restaurants on the property.
42. Relax at the hammocks at the Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian Village Resort has some of the most relaxing spots on Disney property, including hammocks scattered along its sandy beaches. These are completely free to use and provide an amazing view of the Seven Seas Lagoon. It’s the perfect place to take a break from the excitement, watch the sunset, or even catch a glimpse of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from afar!
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
43. Walk the nature trails around Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs Resort offers scenic walking trails that wind through the resort’s lush landscaping, golf course, and along the tranquil Lake Buena Vista. The peaceful pathways provide a great way to take in the beauty of Disney’s natural surroundings while getting some fresh air and exercise. The trails are well-maintained, and you might even spot rabbits, ducks, or other wildlife along the way!
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort
44. Listen To Jazz Music At The Port Orleans Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort offers one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to free entertainment—live jazz and blues performances at the River Roost Lounge! Even if you’re not dining or staying at the resort, you’re welcome to enjoy the music in the lobby or outdoor courtyard. Plus, you can purchase another iconic Disney treat while you’re here – a Mickey shaped beignet from Scat’s Cat Cafe!
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
45. Explore The Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is one of the most visually stunning resorts on property, with massive sculptures of beloved Disney characters throughout the grounds.
Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you can walk around and admire the larger-than-life displays of The Lion King, Finding Nemo, Cars, and The Little Mermaid. Each section of the resort is designed to immerse visitors in the worlds of these iconic films, making it a fantastic spot for photo ops.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
46. Take a stroll around Lago Dorado and enjoy the Spanish-Colonial ambiance
Coronado Springs Resort is centered around the beautiful Lago Dorado, a large lake surrounded by scenic walkways, bridges, and stunning Spanish-Colonial architecture.
Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, especially at sunset. Along the way, you’ll find cozy seating areas, decorative fountains, and even hidden Mickeys in the resort’s intricate tilework. It’s a peaceful, picturesque spot that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the parks!
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
47. Take in stunning views at the Contemporary Resort’s viewing decks
The Contemporary Resort offers some of the best free views on Disney property, thanks to its elevated walkways and outdoor viewing decks. From these spots, you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Seven Seas Lagoon, Cinderella’s Castle, and even Space Mountain.
It’s a fantastic place to soak in the magic, whether you’re visiting during the day or watching the fireworks light up the night sky. Plus, it’s easy to get here by riding the monorail!
Other Free Activities
48. Explore the Christmas decorations during the holiday season
During the holiday season, Disney resorts and Disney Springs transform into a winter wonderland with breathtaking decorations, themed Christmas trees, and festive lights. Each resort has its own unique holiday display – from the life-sized gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian to the elaborately decorated trees at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Walking through these festive resorts feels like stepping into a holiday storybook with twinkling lights, wreaths, and seasonal music adding to the magic.
49. Create your own Disney penny souvenirs
One of the most budget-friendly experiences at Disney is collecting pressed pennies. You don’t even need to buy them to enjoy the fun! You can find penny-press machines scattered throughout Disney resorts, Disney Springs, and other public areas.
Even if you don’t make a purchase, it’s exciting to see the different designs available—many of which feature rare or vintage Disney characters. Kids love turning the crank and watching the machine in action, making it a fun and memorable experience for all ages.
50. Catch the Rainbow Tunnel at the Imagination Pavilion (EPCOT Resort Area)
For a nostalgic Disney moment, visit Disney’s Imagination Pavilion area near EPCOT (without entering the park) to see the famous Rainbow Tunnel, a throwback to the classic Journey Into Imagination ride. While it’s not quite the same as in the old attraction, this vibrant walkway is a great place to snap colorful photos and re-live some Disney history.
I hope I’ve convinced you that there is more to Disney World magic that goes beyond the theme parks! As you can see, there are plenty of free things to do & activities to enjoy without needing a park ticket.
These activities offer a great way to make the most of your visit, whether you’re on a budget, enjoying a rest day, or just looking for new ways to explore the Disney World property! So next time you’re at Disney World, take advantage of these hidden gems and create unforgettable memories—no ticket required!
