7 Free or Cheap Things to Do in Orlando

With the current economic environment, we're all looking for ways to cut back and to save money. Fortunately, if you live in Orlando or are planning a visit there are many free or cheap things you can do. Here are just seven of my favorite things to do in and around Orlando.

Popcorn Flicks
On the second Thursday of each month, Enzian Theater presents Popcorn Flicks in Winter Park. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic dinner, and enjoy a free movie under the stars. And don't worry about the popcorn, it's provided for free, too, courtesy of the Enzian Theater. Check the Enzian's website for the schedule http://www.enzian.org/film/popcorn_flicks.

Dinner at IKEA (with free childcare, too)
IKEA is the Swedish furniture chain that is famous for it's Billy bookcases and many other unpronounceable things that you never knew you needed until you saw them. It's also home to a restaurant that serves surprisingly good and inexpensive food. If you're looking for a cheap dinner option, try IKEA's Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes and a side of Lingonberry preserves for only $3.99. And if you're looking for a dinner without the kids, IKEA even offers free childcare while you shop (and eat)!

Watch the fireworks at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom
Each night above Cinderella Castle the sky comes to life with a dazzling display of fireworks. But if you're not visiting the Magic Kingdom you can still catch the fireworks display from Disney's Contemporary Resort Hotel. From the hotel's main level, step outside on to the balcony facing the Magic Kingdom and watch the show. The show's music is even piped-in so you get the complete experience from this amazing vantage point.

Spend an afternoon at Downtown Disney Marketplace
You don't need a ticket to get into Downtown Disney Marketplace (and parking is free, too). Enjoy looking around Downtown Disney Marketplace's shops, boutiques, and eateries (there are places to eat for every budget). Kids can play in the LEGO Imagination Center (just look for the 12 foot tall T-Rex!) or head over to the Ghirardelli store for a free sample of their world-famous chocolate.

Visit the world's largest flea market
Just outside of Orlando in Sanford is the world's largest flea market , Fleaworld. With over 1,700 vendors, there are hidden treasures galore around every corner. And on weekends, you can visit the adjoining Funworld for free. In addition to carnival rides (for which there is a charge to ride), there are free shows featuring animals, magicians, and acrobats.

Watch Old Town's vintage car parade
Each Saturday night Old Town, the shopping and entertainment complex, hosts a classic car parade with over 300 vintage cars rolling down Old Town's main street. And at 7pm each Saturday Old Town presents live 50's and 60's rock-and-roll on the main stage and it's all free.

Step back in time on Disney's Boardwalk
Disney's Boardwalk is a quarter-mile boardwalk along Crescent Lake. Reminiscent of Coney Island or Atlantic City's boardwalk in its heyday, Disney's Boardwalk features shopping, dining, and entertainment along the boardwalk. Admission is free and you can watch fire eaters, magicians, and musicians entertain visitors nightly on the boardwalk.

Visit the town of Celebration
Originally built by the Walt Disney company, Celebration is an idyllic town just outside of Walt Disney World. The town center features lakeside shop, restaurants, a two-screen AMC movie theater. There's even a post office designed by world-renowned architect Michael Graves. And throughout the year celebration hosts many special events and festivals. Check out http://celebrationtowncenter.com for a list of the upcoming events.