No-Cost Fun: Free Things to Do Near Museum of Illusions Orlando

Published: May 7, 2026
a couple enjoying the museum of illusions

Escaping Reality, Without Spending a Cent 

Orlando’s Museum of Illusions is a playground for your brain—a place where gravity flips, rooms shrink, and photo ops never end. But step outside, and you’ll find even more surprises that won’t cost a penny. The whole area around ICON Park (where the museum sits) sparkles with free things to do. From lively art walks to peaceful green spaces and culture-filled corners, this stretch of International Drive is a goldmine for intrepid travelers, barefoot wanderers, and those who like their fun free. Whether you’ve got the whole gang in tow, you’re traveling solo, or you’re two lovebirds looking for a budget-friendly date, we’re sharing the very best activities close to the Museum of Illusions—none of which require breaking open your wallet. 

Our favorite free attractions near the Museum of Illusions include: 

ICON Park entertainment district 

International Drive Public Art & Murals 

I-Drive 360 Courtyard Live Music 

Disney Springs 

Lake Eola Park 

Dr. Phillips Center Arts Plaza 

Leu Gardens “Free Admission Days” 

Universal CityWalk (parking after 6pm) 

The Escape Game Orlando Mural & Plaza 

 

Let the free Orlando adventure begin! 

ICON Park Entertainment District

Right outside the Museum of Illusions, ICON Park pulses with energy—and you don’t have to spend a cent to soak it all in. This open-air district is home to the Wheel, dozens of tasty eateries, bars, quirky shops, splash fountains, and endless spots to people-watch. What makes ICON Park so fun (even for those not riding the Wheel or splashing out at restaurants) is the sheer festival atmosphere and the variety of free entertainment on offer. 

Stroll the sun-soaked promenades, stop for street performances, and snag a selfie with the colorful ICON Park sign or the whimsical carousel. Splash pads keep kids giggling, and public seating lets you rest under palm trees framed by neon lights when the sun dips. On weekends, you’ll often stumble into pop-up events—think vintage car shows, character meet-and-greets, or lawn games on the green. 

After dark, ICON Park dazzles with glowing LED clocks and music drifting from open-air patios. Evenings here feel like one big party, with twinkle lights overhead and live musicians strumming for cheerful crowds. You could easily fill an hour—or a whole afternoon—soaking up the vibe. Bring your phone; this place is selfie heaven. 

International Drive Public Art & Murals 

If you’re a fan of street art, you’ll want to explore the colorful murals and playful installations scattered along International Drive, all within walking distance from the Museum of Illusions. The “I-Drive” corridor is Orlando’s fun zone, and the local government has commissioned a vibrant collection of public art that’s open, accessible, and perfect for your Instagram grid. 

Keep your eyes peeled for the three-story “Greetings from Orlando” postcard mural, a huge splash of colors and Orlando icons. Down an adjacent alley, whimsical animal sculptures and abstract shapes form a path to creative photo spots. The “Selfie Wall” series takes things up a notch—these interactive installations were designed specifically for snapping the perfect vacation shot. Whether you’re posing with technicolor butterflies or snapping a selfie amidst retro cassette tapes, every corner is selfie-worthy. 

Best of all, the greatest art discoveries are often the accidental ones. Duck into hidden corners or stroll behind the bus stops—there’s a surprise everywhere. No tickets required; just a curious spirit and your camera. 

I-Drive 360 Courtyard Live Music 

Music is practically in the air around International Drive, and the I-Drive 360 Courtyard is the beating heart of the action. This palm-shaded, open-air space right by ICON Park is a magnet for local musicians, emerging bands, and talented buskers—especially on weekends. 

Grab a spot by the fountain or on one of the grassy knolls and enjoy an evening soundtrack of jazz, acoustic folk, and the occasional mariachi band. The vibe? Relaxed and lively, with families dancing, couples swaying, and music-lovers just soaking in the talent. On select Friday and Saturday nights, local event organizers host free outdoor concerts (bring a picnic or order takeout from surrounding eateries). 

Many of the acts are up-and-coming talents, so you might say you saw them here first. If you value authentic, unscripted fun, you’ll love relaxing at the Courtyard—it’s like stumbling onto your own private music festival. 

Disney Springs 

A 15-minute drive from the Museum of Illusions, Disney Springs feels worlds away from the amusement park crowds. With no fee to enter or walk around, this vast entertainment complex offers a full afternoon (or evening) of delight and discovery. 

What’s so special? Disney Springs is a feat of design, where each district delivers entirely different vibes—boho chic, industrial-cool, old Florida waterfront, and more. Street musicians, a cappella groups, and dance troupes deliver top-tier entertainment nightly, free for everyone. Ragtime pianists play outside Paddlefish, while pop-up DJs get crowds moving on the Boardwalk. 

For parents, the LEGO Store’s outdoor building area is a winner. Creative types can window-shop at the many art galleries, or see world-class sand sculptures during seasonal festivals. For foodies, free samples sometimes appear outside Ghirardelli Chocolate or Amorette’s Patisserie (worth asking!). Even if all you do is check out the themed fountains, take in the lakeside sunset, or watch hot-air balloons rise at dusk, Disney Springs delivers magic—all without a park ticket. 

Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park is Orlando’s green jewel—a lush oasis smack in the middle of Downtown. It’s an easy 20-minute drive or $1.25 bus ride from ICON Park. This city park is the go-to for locals wanting to jog, stroll, picnic, or simply soak up the Florida sun. 

Swans glide across the shimmering lake, framed by the famous rainbow-shaped fountain at the heart of the park. Locals and travelers alike walk the palm-lined paths, snap photos with quirky public art, and relax on lakeside benches. Ducks and turtles keep kids amused, while shaded playgrounds and grassy lawns are perfect for picnicking. 

Sundays call for the vibrant Orlando Farmers Market (great for people-watching, with live music, art vendors, and two dozen food trucks). Free yoga sessions, movie nights, and art fairs happen throughout the month, so check the posted schedule in the park or on the city website. The skyline views at golden hour provide the perfect free magic to end any Orlando day. 

Dr. Phillips Center Arts Plaza 

Classical music, jazz, experimental dance—you’ll never believe so much culture is served up for free at the Dr. Phillips Center in downtown Orlando. Their Arts Plaza is an urban stage, featuring a year-round lineup of free outdoor concerts, pop-up theater, community festivals, and public art installations. 

On a typical weekend, you might catch a salsa band serenading an impromptu dance party, kids belting out Broadway hits, or a seasoned jazz quartet on the sweeping patio. Bring a lawn chair or just lounge on the steps and let Orlando’s arts scene wash over you. From food truck nights to outdoor movie projections, there’s always something happening. 

Even if you just pass through, the playful fountains and sleek architecture make it a fun, photogenic refuge after a day of museum hopping. Local tip: December’s “Free Family Festival” fills the streets with festive lights and performances—don’t miss it if you’re in town for the holidays. 

Leu Gardens “Free Admission Days” 

If you love being surrounded by blooming camellias, palm groves, and winding rose arbors, Leu Gardens in Orlando offers pure bliss. And if you time your visit right, you can explore the entire 50-acre garden for free. The first Monday of every month is complimentary admission day—perfect for travelers on a budget. 

Wander beneath ancient oaks dripping with Spanish moss, pause at peaceful koi ponds, and smell fresh roses as you explore themed gardens highlighting everything from tropical bromeliads to edible vegetable plots. This is a great spot for nature photographers (bring your camera for butterfly close-ups and hidden garden sculptures) and romantics alike. Benches abound for quiet contemplation or lively conversation. 

On free days, you can also explore the charming historic Leu House Museum, usually closed to walk-ins. Kids love the butterfly garden and the resident chickens, while adults treasure a moment to slow down. Don’t forget to check their website for seasonal events—flower shows, outdoor yoga, and art fairs often coincide with free admission dates. 

Universal CityWalk (Parking After 6pm) 

Universal CityWalk, a buzzing promenade just outside Universal Orlando’s gates, is home to wild décor, massive neon signs, and nightly fun. The secret? Parking is free for everyone after 6pm (except Halloween Horror Nights), so you can enjoy the area without buying theme park tickets. 

CityWalk’s main paths are always thrumming with energy, with giant fire pits, street entertainment, and impromptu dance contests. You can window shop at novelty megastores, enjoy the choreographed “singing” fountains, or listen to live bands for free from the open plazas. The ambiance leans exuberant—expect a happy-hour block party vibe and no shortage of people-watching. 

If you’re feeling peckish, pop into Voodoo Doughnut just to see their outrageous pink décor and wild doughnut displays (you might even catch free samples during slower periods). Couples will love the Sambil Bridge for stellar sunset snaps, and families can let off steam with the nightly splash pad. CityWalk after dark? Free, safe, and absolutely classic Orlando. 

The Escape Game Orlando Mural & Plaza 

Hidden behind the main hustle of International Drive, The Escape Game Orlando has transformed its entrance plaza into a lively, free-to-visit hub for public art and games. It’s a relaxed spot, whether you’re passing through or hanging out before dinner. 

The ever-changing outdoor “Challenge Wall” features mind-bending puzzles for visitors to solve, while whimsical murals provide both photo ops and brain teasers. Local artists added illusions and optical tricks to some walls—snap a selfie from just the right angle for Riley-worthy perspective shots. Sit on the colorful steps, try out a new puzzle, and watch as families and groups giggle their way through the interactive clues. 

Occasionally, the plaza hosts public escape game demonstrations or free scavenger hunts. Even if you just want to chill outdoors, it’s a clever, alternative stop that will please puzzle-lovers of all ages (without touching your bank account). 

Wrapping It All Up: Orlando—No Wallet Needed 

Orlando’s International Drive isn’t just for thrill rides and big-ticket attractions. From splashy street art to free music, lush gardens, and festive promenades, this corner of the city brims with activities where the only thing you’ll spend is time. Whether you’re capping off an afternoon at the Museum of Illusions, planning a whole day hopping from place to place, or searching for a little green space to unwind, you’ll find plenty of local color ready to be discovered—and enjoyed for free. 

 

Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and browse our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems. 

Step up your sightseeing with Go City® 

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 

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Orlando in November

Presenting cooler temps and smaller crowds, autumn is the perfect time for you to make a city trip! Visiting Orlando during the fall is a great idea since you’ll be able to enjoy all the area’s famous outdoor attractions, as well as autumnal events which tend to crop up around this time of the year. For thrillseekers and those travelling with family, the area’s famous theme parks are a total must-see. If you’re looking to get stuck into nature, check out Kraft Azalea Garden. Or, for something a little different, enjoy some local seasonal activities around the city – the choice is yours! As one of America’s most popular tourist destinations, you’re sure to find something to suit you. So, if you’re planning to discover Orlando in November, have a read through our list of the best things to do in the area. Whatever you decide to do there, we’re sure it’ll be fantastic. Hit the Classics Making a visit to Orlando any time of the year can mean only one thing – theme parks! Garnering millions of visitors each year, Universal Studios is known as one of the most visited resorts in the world – and who are we to question that many people? The park consists of eight separately themed areas, each pertaining to the entertainment industry in their own unique way. With over 40 rides and attractions to choose from, there’s a little something for everybody here. During the month of November, you can catch a delightful seasonal holiday parade floating through the ‘’New York’’ neighborhood of the park. Complete with ballroom dancers, floats and balloons, this iteration of Macy’s popular televised event is not far from the real thing. A total crowd-pleaser for those of all ages, we don’t recommend skipping out on this one! It would be impossible to write an article about Orlando any time of the year without mentioning Magic Kingdom. Still, November is an especially great time to visit, since the weather is cooler and the crowds will have thinned out. Earning the number one spot as the most visited theme park in America, this place is often billed as ‘’the happiest place on earth’’ - and we couldn’t agree more! From total classics like It’s a Small World to Space Mountain, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. A visit to the park can be a little daunting for first-timers, but we always recommend wearing your comfiest, weather-appropriate clothes! With so much to do, see, and experience, it’s impossible to leave without a smile on your face. Find Fun Activities For those looking to get in touch with nature, Kraft Azalea Garden is a great choice. Since the weather around autumn time is typically still warm, there's no excuse to not go out and explore Orlando’s natural wonders. A total favorite for locals and visitors alike, the park offers the perfect spot for getting some fresh air or gathering your thoughts. Standing out amongst other urban landscapes in the city, this picturesque secret garden is less meticulously manicured, and a little bit wilder and more romantic. Walking along the trails, you’ll be able to enjoy centuries-old banyan, cypress and oak trees, an exedra, and of course, azaleas! Bordering Lake Maitland, the park also offers a lot of water activities, including boating, paddle boarding and kayaking. Wonderfully peaceful and secluded, this place provides a great respite from the city. Don’t forget to bring your camera! Foodies – pay attention! If strolling through aisles of artisanal cheeses and organic honey is your thing, there’s no better place to be than the Winter Park Farmers’ Market. Running every Saturday morning without fail, this local favorite is well known for its fresh fruit and veg. Still, the real draw here is the market’s wide variety of food purveyors, serving up delectable flavors from around the globe. From fresh chicken pot pies to Jamaican patties hot from the oven, this place is a real treat for the senses. In addition, you can browse the stalls for unique souvenirs and original artwork as you snack. With its lively atmosphere and eclectic vibes, we love this spot for a casual afternoon adventure. Get Festive! If you’re looking for art and culture in the City Beautiful, don’t worry – we've got you covered! With the temperate autumn weather and seasonal atmosphere, November brings a whole host of arts and crafts fairs to be enjoyed. Drawing in thousands of visitors each year, Fall Fiesta in the Park is recognized as the largest event of its kind in the city. Set against the wondrous backdrop of Lake Eola, guests can view the works of over 200 local artists coming from all over the States. Still, that isn’t all there is to see here. At the festival, there is also live entertainment, delicious food, and a Kidzone, so nobody is left out! A great stop for all creative types, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a laidback afternoon in the city. When exploring a new city, one of the best ways to get to know the area is through its festivals. Running towards the end of the month each year, Fusion Festival invites thousands of visitors to Downtown Orlando to celebrate over 100 different cultures. Drawing people together from all walks of life, this delightful extravaganza of fun and festivities is well worth stopping by. At the event, you’ll be able to learn more about different cultures through music, dance, visual arts, and of course, an abundance of food and drink. Totally feel-good and offering a fantastic celebration of diversity in culture, this one should rank right at the very top of the itinerary! Without a doubt, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Orlando. Though tourist season might just be winding down around this time of the year, the city will be packed with exciting seasonal events to pique your interest. Whether you’re new in town or a returning visitor to the City Beautiful, you’re sure to find something for you. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
women enjoying st patricks day in a bar
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Orlando Goes Green: Top Ways to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day

Orlando may be renowned for its world-class theme parks and endless sunshine, but when St Patrick’s Day rolls around, the city transforms into a lively haven of green glitter and Gaelic celebration. Whether you’ve got Irish roots or simply want an excuse to don your lucky clover gear, Orlando delivers a St Paddy’s Day you won’t soon forget. Think rollicking parades, foot-tapping Celtic bands, and themed bites (and sips) you’d swear were shipped straight from Dublin. Our guide takes you far beyond the typical tourist trail—uncovering the best parties, the coziest Irish pubs, parades brimming with community spirit, and unique Orlando attractions getting in on the fun. Ready to pack your trip with a pot o’ gold’s worth of memories? Let’s get to it!  Our favorite St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Orlando include:  The Orlando Eye  Kennedy Space Center  Gatorland  Downtown Orlando’s St Patrick’s Day Parade  Raglan Road Irish Pub  SEALIFE Aquarium  Wall St. Plaza Block Party  Museum of Illusions  Crooked Can Brewing Company’s Celtic Festival  Lake Eola Park Festivities  KENNEDY SPACE CENTER: IRISH ADVENTURE, OUT OF THIS WORLD  Irish luck meets astronaut adventure at the Kennedy Space Center—just a short drive from Orlando. In mid-March, the center often gets caught up in the St Patrick’s Day buzz with themed scavenger hunts for kids, pop-up green treats in the café, and special “Shamrock the Universe” activities. On the big day itself, look for staff and even a few space suits decked out in bright green.  But don’t let the fun fool you: the real reason we keep coming back is the atmosphere of awe and discovery that only a legendary spaceport can offer. Explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis, meet real astronauts for St Paddy’s Day Q&As, and enjoy hands-on exhibits—all while the grounds pulse with festive energy. The sprawling Rocket Garden gets a festive facelift with green spotlights in the evenings, perfect for a once-a-year photo op. It’s the ultimate family-friendly way to celebrate, where every future astronaut (or pint-sized leprechaun) leaves inspired the Irish way—by dreaming big.  GATORLAND: ST PADDY’S WITH A SWAMPY TWIST  For a holiday experience you won’t find in Dublin, celebrate St Patrick’s Day at Gatorland, “The Alligator Capital of the World.” The park welcomes the green-themed holiday in classic quirky style, hosting special shows featuring their famous gators (sometimes sporting tiny green hats—yes, really), live Irish folk music, and family-friendly contests such as Best Leprechaun Gator Impression.  The wild fun carries on throughout the park, where you can zipline over gator swamps, feed baby alligators, and explore lush boardwalks surrounded by Florida’s signature wildlife. Gatorland’s take on the holiday celebrates the spirit of both local and Irish traditions—fun-loving, outrageous and all about bringing the community together. Pick up a themed souvenir at the Gator Gift Shop (leprechaun-on-an-alligator merch, anyone?) and enjoy the park’s famously silly staff who never miss an excuse for a themed joke or two. This is Orlando at its most delightfully offbeat and perfect for families or travelers looking for laughs.  DOWNTOWN ORLANDO'S ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE: THE HEART OF THE CELEBRATION  Orlando comes alive with the thumping beat of drums, dazzling green costumes, and a whole lot of Irish pride during the annual Downtown St Patrick’s Day Parade. Typically weaving its way through the historic Thornton Park District, this event is packed with bagpipe bands, Irish dance troupes, costumed pups, and floats representing local businesses, all cheered on by festive crowds.  What truly makes the parade a must-see? The atmosphere—there’s nothing quite like joining locals dressed in green, with everyone from teens to retirees getting into the festive spirit. Neighborhood restaurants and bars open their patios for parade viewing, while pop-up food trucks serve everything from corned beef sandwiches to emerald-hued desserts. After the parade, the fun continues with music and dance performances on outdoor stages, plenty of family-friendly games, and more than a few Guinness toasts. For travelers wanting a taste of Orlando’s warm community vibe, this parade is as genuine and enthusiastic as they come.  SEA LIFE ORLANDO AQUARIUM: GO GREEN UNDER THE SEA  Why not celebrate in the company of dazzling marine life? SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers a serene, family-friendly St Patrick’s Day alternative, with a subtle Irish twist. The aquarium goes green for the occasion—literally—illuminating its underwater tunnels and enormous tanks with emerald lighting. Even some of the aquarium’s resident creatures join the fun, with themed presentations explaining which species are the marine world’s “leprechauns.”  Children are treated to scavenger hunts for hidden shamrocks while Irish folk tunes play softly as you watch sharks, rays, and glittering schools of fish glide overhead. If you’re after a less crowded, gentle day out (and maybe an educational break for the kids), this is the spot. Plus, it’s located at ICON Park, so you can pair your visit with the Orlando Eye’s green glow above or wander outside for themed snacks and music. It’s Orlando’s answer to a day on the Emerald Isle, minus the damp socks.  WALL ST. PLAZA BLOCK PARTY: THE ULTIMATE DOWNTOWN SHAMROCK SHINDIG  Do you crave wall-to-wall music, creative costumes and a lively atmosphere? Wall St. Plaza’s annual St Patrick’s Day Block Party turns downtown Orlando into party central. Seven connected bars band together for this outdoor bonanza, where live bands, dueling DJs and river-dancers keep the crowd hopping all night long. Expect street food stalls (think Irish bangers or green-frosted cupcakes), plenty of drink specials—especially on Guinness and green beer—and fun games like keg bowling or a leprechaun lip sync battle.  We’re especially fond of the people-watching—you’ll see everything from toddlers in tiny top hats to locals decked out as full-on Irish elves. The plaza’s décor goes wild for the holiday: bunting, banners, and a sea of inflatable shamrocks. As the sun sets, the energy ramps up; the music gets louder, the dance-offs get wilder, and you might just make friends with a new table of fellow travelers or locals. For those wanting an authentic, high-energy street festival, Wall St. Plaza is St Paddy’s with big Orlando flair.  MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS: UNLEASH YOUR INNER LEPRECHAUN  If you fancy Instagram-worthy, out-of-the-box festivities rather than another night at the bar, then Orlando’s Museum of Illusions delivers. During St Patrick’s Day week, the gallery decks out select rooms with green backdrops and themed props: think leprechaun hats, rainbow arches, and pots of (fool’s) gold. Step into the mind-bending vortex tunnel in a St Paddy’s themed getup or snap a picture in the reverse room, where gravity flips and your leprechaun selfie stands out in your feed.  Museum staff play up the fun with interactive Irish-themed brain teasers and puzzles, and there are prizes for the best-dressed visitors (hint: those who glitter in green never go unnoticed). The vibe? Playful, social and ideal if you want to combine a little friendly competition with quirky photos. Plus, it’s a perfect way to make St Patrick’s Day feel special, even if you’re traveling with kids or those who don’t necessarily love parades or pub crawls.  CROOKED CAN BREWING COMPANY’S CELTIC FESTIVAL: LOCAL FLAVOR MEETS IRISH PRIDE  Tucked away in Winter Garden, a short drive from Orlando’s core but well worth the trek, Crooked Can Brewing Company throws its coveted Celtic Festival each March. The brewery goes all in—think green-clad staff pouring pints of Irish stouts and limited-edition brews crafted just for the occasion. Local food trucks whip up shepherd’s pie egg rolls and Irish nachos (yes, those are a thing), while an outdoor stage hosts traditional fiddlers, rock bands covering U2 anthems, and highland dancers who keep spirits high.  The vibe is festive and inclusive, with festival-style games, face-painting and balloon artists for kids, and the friendliest crowd you could hope for. You’ll find plenty of shaded tables, a big outdoor beer garden, and the chance to tour the brewery or raise a glass alongside passionate locals. Crooked Can’s Celtic Festival is a great pick for groups, families, or solo travelers looking for something genuine and joyful—and no reservation required.  LAKE EOLA PARK FESTIVITIES: RELAX, RECHARGE AND CELEBRATE AL FRESCO  If parades and bar crawls feel a bit much, Lake Eola Park’s St Patrick’s Day happenings provide an easygoing, open-air escape right in downtown Orlando. The lakefront park frequently hosts Irish-themed yoga, pop-up markets selling green plants and crafts, and family-friendly picnics with live acoustic music. Swans glide by as buskers in flat caps play Irish melodies.  Towering oak trees and views of the Orlando skyline set the scene for food trucks and pop-up beer tents, serving up everything from Irish stew to key lime pie with a green twist. Take a swan boat out with your crew, try your hand at outdoor games like cornhole or giant chess, or just stretch out a picnic blanket under the palms. Lake Eola puts the “chill” into St Paddy’s Day—welcoming for all ages and just steps from bustling downtown.    Whether you picture yourself joining pipe bands in a downtown parade, snapping party pics in a gravity-defying illusion room, or simply lounging lakeside with a green-hued treat, Orlando brings its own sense of playfulness to St Patrick’s Day. You can chase leprechauns through world-class attractions, raise a toast with locals at a buzzing street festival, or trade traditions with astronauts and alligators alike. Orlando goes all in for the green each March—so no matter which adventure you choose, you’re set for a memorable St Paddy’s getaway.    Like this? Why not explore the fascinating Museum of Illusions, or browse the city’s market scene.     Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
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Is Orlando Safe?

With its emblematic theme parks and year-round beautiful weather, Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world that you can visit. Forever fun and presenting countless interesting activities to choose from, the city has made a prime choice for family vacations for generations now. Still, those making a trip to the City Beautiful might stop to ask themselves before visiting, ‘’well, is it safe?’’ If you’re planning to make your way over to Orlando and have any concerns about your trip, don’t worry! We’ll help you figure that all out with our guide to staying safe in the area. Keep scrolling to learn more about how you can stay mindful when exploring Orlando. How Safe is Orlando? If you’re travelling to Orlando for the first time, you might be worried about crime in the area. Since Orlando is a tourist-heavy location, petty crime is an unfortunately common occurrence, coming in a wide variety of forms. From bag-snatching and phone grabbing to pickpocketing and credit card fraud, it can sometimes seem like there’s a lot to be aware of here. When you’re walking around the theme parks, be sure to keep your wallet hidden and possessions secure at all times. To avoid standing out from the crowd, we suggest that you dress conspicuously and keep valuable items out of full view. While all of this sounds like it can be a little unsettling, we know that if you’re smart about it, you should be just fine. Is Transport in the City Safe? In coming to a new city, it's important that visitors are able to get around safely. As a big city and thriving tourist destination, Orlando presents countless options for local transportation, each with their own perks. If you’re looking for total convenience and freedom of travel, renting a car from a local vendor is always a good option. Not only is this choice one of the most secure ways to explore the area, but it will save you money. As another easy and time-efficient course of action, taxis are available at most major attractions and hotels. For those who want to use cabs as a primary mode of transportation, we suggest that you stay vigilant of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings. And for a more cost-effective way to see Orlando, the city’s comprehensive bus system is a good choice. When taking any public transport, we recommend that you work out your route ahead of time, and to avoid these types of services at night if you can. Though making your way around a new city can seem a little daunting, with the right planning, it will seem like no biggie. How to Stay Safe in Orlando When travelling to a new area, you have a right to know whether it's safe to explore. Of course, there is no one straight-up answer to this – like most big cities, Orlando presents some areas that pose less of a threat than others. For those who are particularly worried about personal safety, areas like I-Drive, Kissimmee and Winter Park should make you feel more comfortable. Bursting with iconic attractions and events, these places are always a great option. Whilst staying in areas which you are more familiar with may seem like a good idea, there’s a lot more of the city to see. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, then downtown is filled with fantastic cultural attractions that are not to be missed. If you do decide to explore one of Orlando's bolder neighborhoods, it's important to always pay attention to your surroundings. As long as you keep your wits about yourself and stay sharp, you should experience no problems here. Are the Theme Parks Safe? Another common concern of visitors to Orlando is the theme parks, and how safe they may be. If you’re planning your stay around some of the city’s most popular entertainment attractions, it might be comforting to hear that park regulation is left up to the state. With so many fantastic sites packed into one area, Florida has pretty strict safety measures regarding its amusement parks – so there’s no need to worry here. Still, it’s important to stay smart when exploring these iconic attractions. Walking around the site, we recommend staying in groups of two or more, and always carrying a theme park map with you. When visiting one of these attractions, you should also keep a mobile phone with you, so that you can stay connected with the rest of your group. Whilst these places can seem a little intimidating due to their impressive size, if you approach them with the right attitude, you’ll make memories for years to come! Is Orlando Safe at Night? Though Orlando is generally recognized as a family destination, its nightlife is a real treat for those who are willing to explore. With areas like I-Drive, downtown, and Ivanhoe Village all offering a great way to let loose a little on vacation, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And whilst Orlando’s bar scene stands up to any major US city, it can also present some real dangers. Whilst spiking and attacks are irregular incidences, we all recognize that they can and do happen – so it's essential to know what you can do to protect yourself. For starters, when heading out for a night on the town, we recommend going with a group (you should stay with your group throughout the night to ensure total safety). At the bar, it’s important to always keep an eye on your beverage and remember to drink plenty of water as well. When making your way back to your accommodation, make sure to choose a safe method of transportation – we suggest taking a taxi over public transport. Whilst all of this might seem like a lot to handle, you can never put a price on safety! Without a doubt, Orlando is a fantastic destination for exploration and adventure – however, it’s always important for visitors to stay alert and make smart decisions when discovering this unique entertainment capital. Whilst the bustling streets and theme parks might seem a little chaotic to some travellers, with a little common sense, you should be able to handle them like a pro. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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