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Free & Fun Things To Do Near Disney World with Kids
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items If you’re visiting Disney but want to add in some extra adventures — or you need a break from the parks — here’s a roundup of fun, easy, and kid-approved stops nearby. Some are low-key gems, some are classic tourist spots that are actually worth it. ...
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🎉 Just-as-Fun-as-the-Parks Picks
🛍️ Stroll, Snack & Chill
🐊 Animal + Adventure Stops
🍦 Sweet Treat Stops We Love
🎉 Just-as-Fun-as-the-Parks Picks
Even if you’re taking a break from the main parks (or skipping them altogether), these stops still pack the Disney magic — minus the meltdowns and wait times.
Fun store, a little train ride, Lego builds, and character-themed eats — no ticket needed. T-Rex Café and Rainforest Café were our weekend must-dos growing up.
Disney Springs (Free Entry)
Free evening event with sing-alongs, marshmallow roasting, and a Disney movie under the stars — even if you’re not staying on site.
Chip 'N Dale's Campfire Sing-A-Long (Free)
Silly, holiday-themed fun with two courses (summer Santa and winter Santa). Quick, easy, and a great post-park or rest day activity.
Winter Summerland Mini Golf (next to Blizzard Beach)
🛍️ Stroll, Snack & Chill
Need a slower-paced day? These spots are perfect for wandering, grabbing a snack, and letting the kids burn some energy without an agenda.
This Disney-designed town has a dreamy small-town vibe. Perfect for an afternoon walk, ice cream at Kilwins, and playground time at Lakeside Park.
Celebration FL
Totally underrated! A relaxing, stroller-friendly walk with games, snacks, and sometimes street performers. Feels magical without the crowds.
Disney's Boardwalk | Walt Disney World Resort
Our absolute FAVORITE place. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting just to walk the trails, check out the lobby, and grab a snack at Roaring Fork. Feels like a cozy national park escape tucked inside Disney.
Disney's Wilderness Lodge
🐊 Animal + Adventure Stops
A mix of hands-on animal fun and indoor attractions — these are great if your kids love exploring but you’re ready for something different than characters and rides.
This one’s a classic. Super interactive, way less hectic than a park, and there’s a splash pad and a petting zoo for younger kids.
Gatorland
Air-conditioned, stroller-friendly, and full of hands-on exhibits. Bonus: ICON Park has a giant Ferris wheel and other kid-friendly attractions.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium
You don’t have to visit Animal Kingdom Park to see the animals — just head to the resort! There are public viewing decks where you can spot zebras, giraffes, and more just roaming the savannah. We used to go just to watch and wander. It’s peaceful, q...
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (Resort Viewing Area)
🍦 Sweet Treat Stops We Love
Because sometimes a giant milkshake is the main event. These kid-friendly dessert spots double as a fun experience — and a much-needed break.
Over-the-top sundaes and retro diner vibes. Make a reservation and explore the resort after — it’s right by the sand and water.
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop
Not Disney, but worth it. Steampunk desserts and giant milkshakes made this a favorite weekend stop for us, even when we weren’t doing Universal.
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen™
This was always a must-stop when we were little — and now it’s just as magical with my own kids. Bright colors, sugar everywhere, and the cutest customizable treats. Let them pick a marshmallow wand, cookie, or slushie (Goofy’s Glaciers are everythin...
Goofy's Candy Company