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Trav L. Moore
Trav L. Moore and his priceLESS peeps are eager to offer you their two cents on where to go and what to do to find the most fun for the least funds.
Some of the Moore Amusing Things to Do on The Cheap in Orlando
Kids looking forward to their time with Mickey and you are on the hunt for some cheap things to do to fill out the fun? Here's some Trav Tips on what not to miss.
Creature Features
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How’s an alligator road trip sound? Yeah, thought so. Head to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Traill and experience REAL Florida. There are loads of gators, birds, turtles, and fish to see on this free (Yes, free) 11-mile nature drive. So, roll down the windows, turn down the radio and take in the view. Open Friday – Sunday only.
Here’s something else they’ll go wild over. Take them to the crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring State Park for a sight they’ll never forget - hundreds of manatees in their natural habitat. A boardwalk with observation bridges offers you and the kids a chance to watch these gentle sea creatures and their babies as they swim, socialize and even snooze. $6 will get you and your carload of kids in for the day.
Need a “paws” after all the amusement rides? For the price of a cup of joe, the kiddies can canoodle with kittens at Orlando’s Cat Cafe. Located just 4 miles from Disney’s Animal Kingdom, this hang out for cool cats (usually you’ll find 12-20 ready to meet and greet on any given day) requires reservations. Premium teas, pastries, and paninis along with coffee are served throughout the day. 1 hour of petting and play is {only} $10.
Splash for Less Cash
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Think the less you pay, the more watered down your options are? Think again. The natural oasis just miles from downtown Orlando at Wekiwa Springs is bubbling over with fun. The family can chill in the spring’s cool, clear water – it’s a pool perfect 72 degrees year-round or, opt to explore the lush grounds that come with tons of trails and outdoor activities. Either way, the price is just $6 per carload.
And while we’re on the subject of water, the Swans on Lake Eola have got to be on your budget bucket list. You can take a stroll around the lake’s paved walkway and admire these beauties from shore or, choose to feed them for 25 cents a pop or, go for a 30-minute spin around the lake in a swan-shaped pedal boat for $15 bucks.
Of course, you can always hit the beach for a cheap day out. Just an hour away is Florida’s iconic Cocoa Beach. There’s parking, picnic benches, restrooms, showers, and plenty of sand and surf. All you have to spring for is the gas.
Not in the mood to fight traffic? Just grab a towel and head over to our own River Island Waterpark. It’s just steps away. You and the kids can bob down the lazy river, take a dip in the pool or, zip down the waterslides without ever leaving the grounds.
Wheelie Inexpensive Fun
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So, where else to take the kids that isn’t going to cost a lot? Consider giving Semoran Skateway in Casselberry a whirl. This retro roller rink offers daily deals and special events like “Old Skool Jams” on Saturday nights and “Family Fun Night” on Tuesdays. Prices run about $9 per skater most days.
Or, how about grabbing a seat on Orlando’s StarFlyer Tower for a 450 ft thrill ride you’ll never forget? If you’re afraid the ticket price will hold you back, not to worry, this spin will only set you back 10 bucks.
Then there’s this: pile the kids into the back of your SUV and head to Lakeland for a throwback family outing that’s sure to please. Only 1 of 4 drive-ins left in the state, the Silver Moon Theatre shows first run movies – with double features every night of the week. Prices range from free under four to $8 for anyone over 10.
Other Ways to Save Some Dough
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Who wants pancakes? The batter’s up at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Pancake House inside De Leon Springs State Park where you and the kids can cook your own pancakes with yummy add-ons and toppings while sitting at your table. The price for these all-you-can-eat pancake stacks? $7.99, served with maple syrup, molasses, and honey.
The massive, handmade cookies found at Gideon’s Bakehouse in East End Market aren’t just a must see, they’re a must have. Stuffed to the max, made from scratch, and weighing in at a half-pound each, these Ah-mazing cookies may be hefty, but the price isn’t. Just $6 a piece.
There you have it. Proof big fun doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. But make no mistake this is only a start. There’s plenty more to see and do to make price LESS vacation memories in Orlando.
Any information provided is solely as a courtesy and is not due to compensation or business partnerships with Holiday Inn Club Vacations. Prices subject to change.