End of Summer Frugal Family Fun in Orlando

As summer comes to a close, it is important to squeeze in a few more days of fun before kids start back to school and everyone's schedule gets busy again. Orlando might be famous for Disney, but there are lots of frugal family fun opportunities to commemorate the end of summer.

Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola is one of the most beautiful parks in Orlando, and it's perfect for frugal family fun because everything is free. Show up on Sunday afternoons for an abundant farmer's market, or come in the evening to watch free plays and concerts in the amphitheater. Boat rentals are only $15 for half an hour, and there are swans and other wildlife to feed if you bring some bread or corn.

Polasek Museum

Most museums in the Orlando area charge admission, but Polasek doesn't. The three-acre garden is beautiful in summer, with colorful hibiscus and bougainvillea, and there are usually dozens of butterflies to watch as they flutter about their business. The sculptures and other works of art are also beautiful, and are perfect for a day of exploration without any cost.

Fleaworld

Considered "America's Largest Flea Market," Fleaworld is an adventure park with vendors of all different types as well as rides, games, magic acts, and other family fun activities. You might find some of the things you need for back-to-school shopping, and the kids will have a great time on the rides. An unlimited pass for all the rides is only $16, which means kids can be entertained while adults shop.

Children's Library

August is a hot month in Orlando, Florida, and you might be looking forward to some downtime before school starts up again. The Children's Library is air-conditioned, which means a respite from the heat, and offers an extensive collection of books for kids of all ages. There is also a computer room and a story time program.

Meadow Woods Park

One of my favorite ways to spend a summer afternoon is to pack the whole family in the car, including the dog, and hit a local park. Meadow Woods Park includes a dog park where your four-legged family member doesn't need to be restricted by a leash. This park also includes a playground sports facilities, picnic areas, and more.

Kelly Park

Go tubing, swimming, or boating in Kelly Park, which includes Rock Springs, a free-flowing spring that provides a refreshing break from the searing Orlando heat. Plan a picnic, take a hike through the woods, and set the kids loose on the playground. Kelly Park is busiest on the weekends, so you might want to plan a weekday visit for frugal family fun.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy frugal family fun in Orlando, especially if you stay away from the touristy destinations. Consider walking some of Orlando's malls for back-to-school and fall shopping, or hit one of your community parks for a picnic.