50 Absolutely Free Things To Do At Disney World Without a Park Ticket
Discover 50 FREE things to do at Disney World even without a park ticket! A must-read for anyone looking to experience Disney magic on a budget.
I’m not ashamed to admit I’m that adult who goes to Disney World every year. My first ever trip to Disney World was in 2021 when I was 31 years old. The Disney magic has lured me back every single year since then!
But – I will admit that Disney can get very expensive very fast! Especially the park tickets, which keep getting more and more expensive every year.
That’s why most of the times I visit Disney, I skip the theme parks. My friends laugh at me when I tell them that 😝 But I’m telling you – there is so much free Disney magic to experience even outside the theme parks!
Of course, the parks are beautiful and I think everyone should visit Magic Kingdom at least once in their lifetime. But, I also get that Disney can get expensive especially if you have a big family or you have a tight budget.
So, if you’re wondering how to experience Disney magic on a budget, keep reading for a list of 50 FREE things you can do at Disney World without a park ticket!
Take Advantage of Free Transportation At Disney World
The Disney Skyliner (left)
Boats near Port Orleans Resort (right)
Many first-time visitors may not know that Disney World has an amazing free transportation system. Mastering Disney transportation is such a valuable skill because you can use it to access many free experiences throughout Disney World!
📍 Important Facts About Disney World Transportation:
- No park ticket needed: The entrance to the monorail, bus, boat, and Skyliner is located outside the park entrances, so you don’t need a park ticket to use it
- You don’t have to be staying at a Disney World resort to use the transportation: They do not check ID’s or hotel reservations when you get on board
- If you’re staying at a Disney World resort: Almost all the resorts have free buses that can take you to all 4 theme parks and to Disney Springs. But only select resorts are connected by boat, monorail, or Skyliner.
1. Ride the monorail
One of my favorite free things to do at Disney World is what I call “monorail hopping”.
Disney World’s monorail goes in a continuous loop to 5 stops: Contemporary Resort, Magic Kingdom, Ticketing & Transportation Center, Polynesian Village Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort.
💡 HOT TIP: I usually take the free Disney bus from my resort → Magic Kingdom → get on the monorail
The monorail entrance is located outside the Magic Kingdom entrance so you don’t need a park ticket to hop on! You can ride the monorail for as long as you want, which is nice on a super hot or rainy day. Oh and you get nice views of Magic Kingdom along the way too.
Why stop at the resorts? Keep reading to learn about all the free activities & experiences at the resorts that you can enjoy even as a visitor. Plus, the Grand Floridian Resort and Polynesian Village Resort are two of Disney World’s most iconic deluxe resorts. They’re beautiful to just walk through!
There are also lots of exclusive Disney treats, restaurants, and gift shops at each of these resorts that you won’t want to miss. You can also see the Magic Kingdom fireworks for free from these resorts, but more on that later!
2. Take a free boat ride
Disney has free boats that take visitors from Disney Springs, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom to select resorts. They’re meant for transporting guests from the parks to their resorts, but it’s also nice to just get on for the ride!
You can see all the current routes here – again, no park ticket is needed!
💡 HOT TIP: I usually take the free Disney bus from my resort to Disney Springs → hop on the boat → take a ride or stop at one of the resorts.
I haven’t been on all of the boat routes yet, but my favorites are the routes that go to Port Orleans Resort and the Disney Boardwalk since there’s lots of things to do in both places.
The Port Orleans resort also has Mickey-shaped beignets which are to die for!
3. Ride the Disney Skyliner for a scenic aerial view
The Disney Skyliner is the free aerial gondola pictured above. It’s a really cool way to get a bird’s eye view of Disney World and it’s a fun ride too!
The Skyliner connects Hollywood Studios & Epcot to the Art of Animation Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, Pop Century Resort, & Disney’s Riviera resorts.
The entrance to the Skyliner is located outside of the park entrances, so you can hop on board even without a park ticket. Even if you just go for a round trip, it is a fun ride you can take for completely free!
4. Take a Disney bus
The free Disney buses are the biggest transportation mode within Disney World. It can get you anywhere. Almost all of the Disney World resorts, all 4 theme parks, and Disney Springs are accessible by a Disney bus.
Certain resorts, like Coronado Springs Resort and Animal Kingdom Lodge, are only accessible through a Disney bus and are not accessible by boat, monorail, or Skyliner.
Free Entertainment & Shows
July 4th Fireworks views from Polynesian Village Resort
5. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant
This classic Disney experience features a parade of illuminated floats that glide across the Seven Seas Lagoon. The show takes place every night and you can watch it from the Polynesian Village Resort, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary Resort.
Even if you’re not staying at one of those resorts, you can take the monorail to watch the show for free.
6. Watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks for free
A little insider secret is that you don’t have to be inside the theme parks to enjoy Disney’s famous fireworks shows! You can watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks for free from the beaches at the Polynesian Resort, the Grand Floridian, and the Contemporary Resort.
My favorite spot for viewing fireworks is the Polynesian Village Resort. This resorts sits right opposite Magic Kingdom, so you get beautiful views of the fireworks without visiting the park! Here is a complete list of all the places you can watch Disney World fireworks for free.
7. Enjoy free entertainment at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a “downtown” area that is packed with free entertainment like live musicians and pop-up performances. It’s also a shopping oasis where you can buy Disney merchandise and enjoy some great food. Check out the Disney Springs website to view a calendar of all the free events and shows.
8. Enjoy live Irish music at Raglan Road’s patio in Disney Springs
Catch free Irish music and dancing performances outside this popular pub. They have benches and seating outside the restaurant so you can enjoy the music even if you aren’t dining here.
9. Watch a free outdoor movie
Many Disney resorts host complimentary “Movies Under the Stars”, where guests and visitors can watch classic Disney films on a big outdoor screen. Outdoor movies are just a whole vibe. Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you’re welcome to watch the movie for free!
10. Get a free celebration button
If you’re visiting Disney for an occasion (like a birthday, anniversary, engagement, first trip, or any other special moment in your life), you can get a free celebration button to proudly pin on your shirt!
You can pick up a pin at the front desk of any resort or at certain merchandise shops like The World of Disney at Disney Springs. They can even write your name or a message on the button to make it extra special!
My mom still keeps all of her Disney celebrations on display in her office!
Free Interactive Activities
The Lego Store at Disney Springs – May 2023
11. Participate in a Disney scavenger hunt
Many Disney resorts offer free scavenger hunts that are perfect to keep kids busy. You may even find different scavenger hunt themes at different resorts!
You can pick up a free self-guided scavenger hunt sheet at the front desk of most resorts. Once you finish, you can turn it in and possibly get a small prize or certificate as a souvenir!
12. Play at the LEGO Store’s free play stations
The LEGO Store at Disney Springs has interactive play areas where kids and adults can build and play with legos. It’s a great place to take a break (especially on a hot day!), let your imagination run wild, and even find life-sized LEGO sculptures of your favorite Disney characters – like Hulk!
13. Look for “Hidden Mickeys” at Disney Resorts
Another little Disney secret are the “hidden Mickeys” within the resorts. Disney Imagineers have hidden Mickey-shaped designs throughout the resorts, making it a fun challenge to find them. Some are obvious – like in carpets or artwork – while others are cleverly disguised in architecture or furniture.
This is why resort hopping at Disney World can be so much fun – you never know where you might spot the next Mickey!
14. Visit the interactive fountains At Disney Springs
Disney Springs has a few interactive fountains where kids (and adults!) can splash and play for free. These fountains shoot up bursts of water in unpredictable patterns, making it a fun way to cool off on a hot day.
You’ll find them in a few locations around Disney Springs, with the most popular spots near the Marketplace and the Town Center. In the evenings, the fountains light up!
Free Things To Do in Disney Springs
15. Visit the chocolate experience at The Ganachery
The Ganachery at Disney Springs is a chocolate wonderland. This boutique chocolate shop has a free behind-the-scenes experience where you can watch the chocolatiers make Disney-themed treats. You may even score some free chocolate samples while you’re here!
16. Check out the vintage cars at The Boathouse
The Boathouse at Disney Springs is more than just a waterfront restaurant—it’s also home to an impressive collection of vintage cars, including the famous Amphicars that can drive straight into the water!
The Amphicars are fully functional cars that can drive in both land and water. It’s pretty cool to see! While taking a ride in the Amphicars come at a price, watching them launch into the water is completely free and a fun experience for car lovers of all ages!
17. Browse the art galleries at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is home to several art galleries featuring Disney artwork. The Art of Disney is one of them, and has beautiful paintings, sketches, and sculptures of iconic Disney characters on display. You might even be lucky enough to catch an artist at work while you’re here!
18. Visit the Coca-Cola Rooftop Bar for great views
The rooftop bar on top of the Coca Cola Store provides one of the best free views of Disney Springs. You don’t have to buy anything to enter the rooftop area!
From here, you can take in stunning panoramic views of Disney Springs and Lake Buena Vista. If you visit in the evening, you can even catch a glimpse of lights reflecting off the lake!
19. Watch the glassblowers at Arribas Brothers
Crystal Arts by Arribas Brothers in Disney Springs, is a must-visit! Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s still fun to check out all the beautiful Disney-themed glass figurines, ornaments, and crystal jewelry on display here. Sometimes, you can even watch the glassblowers working on their latest creations!
20. Snap a picture with the iconic Disney Springs fountain
Disney Springs is filled with great photo spots, and one of the most famous is the large fountain located near the entrance. Its classic design, combined with the surrounding architecture, makes it a great place to snap a family photo without spending a dime!
21. Take a walk along the Sassagoula River
Along the Sassagoula River is a scenic pedestrian pathway that stretches from Disney Springs to the Port Orleans resorts. It’s a very peaceful walk especially in the early morning hours. You can also take a free boat ride along the river from Disney Springs to the Port Orleans resorts.
22. Browse through The Star Wars Trading Post
Star Wars fans will love stopping by the Star Wars Trading Post at Disney Springs. It has themed decor, life-sized props, and a huge collection of Star Wars merchandise. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a free way to experience Star Wars without having to go to Hollywood Studios.
23. Window shop at the Marketplace Co-Op
The Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs has a giant collection of unique Disney merchandise that you may not find in other stores. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s still fun to see all the Disney collectibles on display here!
24. Explore the M&M store at Disney Springs
While the candy isn’t free, the experience of visiting this massive, bright shop is worth it! The shop often features fun photo ops and unique displays, making it a great stop for families and candy lovers. You can also use their interactive screen to design your own personalized candy!
25. Get free chocolate samples at Ghirardelli
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to stop at the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in Disney Springs. This shop often hands out free samples of their yummy chocolates as you walk in.
26. Get free samples at Goofy’s Candy Company
Get some more free candy at Goofy’s Candy Company in Disney Springs! It’s also fun to see all the colorful candy apples, Mickey-shaped marshmallow bars, and other fun treats here. Sometimes they offer free samples too!
27. Explore the Christmas Tree Trail (Seasonal at Disney Springs)
During the holiday season, Disney Springs transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas Tree Trail, which features beautifully decorated holiday trees inspired by different Disney movies and characters.
The trail is lit up in the evenings and often features snowfall effects, holiday music, and even some surprise character appearances! It’s completely free to walk through and the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit without visiting the parks.
28. Relax at the Disney Springs Dockside
The Docks at Disney Springs is a great place to take a break, relax, and watch the boats sail by especially during sunset!
Free Things To Do at the Disney Resorts
Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel – March 2024
As I mentioned above, there is a lot to see and do within each Disney resort! I personally find it so much fun to go “resort hopping” to check out the unique style, vibe, and theme of each resort.
You can go inside the resorts and access many activities for free even if you’re not staying at the resort! Each resort also has its own unique treats, restaurants, and Disney merchandise that’s fun to check out too!
Of course there are some amenities and activities that restricted to resort guests only. However, you’ll be surprised at how many free resort activities are available to all visitors.
📍 Disney’s Boardwalk Resorts
29. Explore Disney’s BoardWalk
There is so much to do within the Disney BoardWalk area, which resembles an old-school New England beach boardwalk.
The best way to get here is by taking a bus from one of the parks/Disney Springs or by taking a boat from Disney Springs.
You can walk along the lake, watch performances, or just soak in the lively atmosphere. The Yacht Club Resort, Beach Club Resort, and Boardwalk Inn are all located here, so you can check those out while you’re here too!
You can also take a free boat ride to Disney Springs or walk a short distance to Epcot and hop on the Skyliner from outside the park entrance.
30. Walk around the Yacht & Beach Club resorts
This hotel has beautiful waterfront views and gorgeous New-England style architecture.
If you’re looking for character dining (which is of course a paid experience), be sure to check out Cape May Cafe. They have a character dining breakfast buffet called Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast where Minnie & her friends walk around dressed up in their cutest summer outfits!
📍 Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
31. Relax at the Grand Floridian lobby
The Grand Floridian Resort is an iconic Disney resort that is absolutely gorgeous and worth a visit! It’s elegant, luxurious, and has beautiful landscaping.
As nerdy as it sounds, I love just sitting and relaxing in the grand lobby. You can also find live piano music or seasonal decorations at certain times of the year, which make it extra special!
They also have some great dining and shopping here – including a Basin store and a Bibbidi Bobbidi boutique!
32. Visit the Wedding Pavilion at the Grand Floridian Resort
Located near the Grand Floridian Resort, Disney’s Wedding Pavilion is a must-visit stop on your walk around the resort. You can even catch a glimpse of Cinderella’s Castle from here!
While you can’t enter the chapel unless there’s an event, you can still walk around the area dream about your own fairytale wedding!
33. Listen to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra
You can sometimes catch the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra playing live music in the Grand Floridian Resort lobby. You can watch the performance for free, even if you’re not staying at the resort.
📍 Disney’s Riviera Resort
34. Take a self-guided tour of murals & artwork
Take a ride on the Disney Skyliner to visit Disney’s Riviera Resort, a Mediterranean-themed hotel. Its hallways are decorated with Disney-themed artwork, and there are murals at the Skyliner station that depict scenes from Tangled and Peter Pan.
I haven’t been here myself, but I hear it’s a very photogenic spot that’s worth a visit!
📍 Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Savannah at Animal Kingdom Lodge
35. Visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge
I resort hopped to the Animal Kingdom Lodge for the first time ever on my last trip to Disney – and let me tell you, this place is such a hidden gem!
It has its own little savanna where you can watch giraffes, zebras, and other animals roaming around. The viewing areas are open to everyone, and it’s a really fun family-friendly activity.
36. Visit African Art & cultural displays at the Animal Kingdom Lodge
Animal Kingdom Lodge isn’t just about the animals—it also features one of the largest collections of authentic African art outside of Africa. You’ll find masks, sculptures, and paintings that you can take a look at for free.
📍 Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resorts
37. Relax at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge is themed around the Pacific Northwest. It’s decorated with totem poles, a massive stone fireplace, and woodwork that’s going to make you feel like you’re in a national park. This resort also features stunning views of Bay Lake, and if you’re lucky, you might see some animals along the shore!
38. Take a nature walk at Fort Wilderness
I really like Fort Wilderness because it’s so different from the other properties at Disney. It’s surrounded by beautiful wooded nature trails where you can go for a walk and spot wildlife like deer, rabbits, armadillos, and even wild turkeys roaming freely!
39. See horses at the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Fort Wilderness
For a truly unique Disney experience, head to the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. This horse ranch is home to the horses that pull Cinderella’s carriage and the ones you see on Main Street!
You can walk around the stables, see all the different horse breeds, and check out the wagons too! If you’re lucky, you might even get a chance to see cast members grooming or training the horses!
40. Visit the butterfly gardens at Fort Wilderness
Did you know that there are free butterfly gardens at Disney?! The Fort Wilderness Resort has a small garden filled with native plants that attract butterflies. It’s a nice spot to take a break and just relax. The best time to visit is in the spring or summer when the butterflies are most active.
📍 Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
41. Get lei’d at the Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian Village Resort is my favorite resort in Disney. I’ve never stayed here (because $$$) but I try to make a stop here on every Disney trip. The architecture, landscaping, food, and even the music they play makes you feel like you’re on a tropical island.
Guests who are staying at the resort get a lei placed around their neck during check-in, BUT you can ask a front desk member to have a lei placed around you even if you’re not staying at the resort!
While you’re at the Polynesian Village Resort, try to catch a view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks and the electrical water pageant (mentioned above). It’s free for all visitors, even if you are not staying at the resort.
Plus, the Polynesian Village resort is home to some of the most iconic Disney eats like the pineapple Dole whip, Tonga toast, Ohana bread pudding, Ohana noodles, and so much more. They also make fun, tropical-themed cocktails here too!
42. Relax at the hammocks at the Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian Village Resort is one of the best places to relax at Disney World. They have hammocks set up along the beaches, where you can chill, relax, and look out at the Seven Seas Lagoon.
📍 Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
43. Walk the nature trails around Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs Resort has scenic walking trails that cut through the property and take you along Lake Buena Vista. It’s a nice place to go for a walk with the whole family. The trails are well-maintained, and you might even spot rabbits, ducks, or other wildlife along the way!
📍 Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts
44. Listen To Jazz Music At The Port Orleans Resort
At Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, you can watch live jazz and blues performances at the River Roost Lounge! Even if you’re not dining or staying at the resort, you’re still welcome to enjoy the music.
But I highly recommend trying a Mickey shaped beignet from Scat’s Cat Cafe while you’re here! They’re so delicious and you can only find them at the Port Orleans resorts.
📍 Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
45. See the life-size Disney sculptures at The Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is not only one of Disney World’s most budget-friendly hotels, but it’s also one of the most kid-friendly ones too!
Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you can walk around and admire the massive sculptures of iconic Disney characters from The Lion King, Finding Nemo, Cars, and The Little Mermaid.
It’s a really nice way for kids to see their favorite Disney characters and to snap some really great family photos too!
📍 Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
46. View Epcot fireworks from Coronado Springs Resort
I usually stay at the Coronado Springs Resort when I visit Disney World, so I know this place like the back of my hand!
Coronado Springs Resort is centered around Lago Dorado and the vibe here is all about Spanish architecture. They recently renovated the property and it’s stunning!
It’s a nice place to talk a walk along the lake, check out the architecture, and try to spot hidden Mickeys. They also have a rooftop lounge (Dahlia Lounge) where you can get a peek of Epcot’s fireworks at night!
📍 Disney’s Contemporary Resort
47. Take in stunning views at the Contemporary Resort’s viewing decks
The Contemporary Resort is the oldest resort in Disney World and the closest one to Magic Kingdom. So naturally, you can get some pretty nice views from here!
They have outdoor viewing decks where you can get panoramic views of the Seven Seas Lagoon, Cinderella’s Castle, and even Space Mountain!
You can also ride the monorail from here and watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks at night!
Other Free Activities at Disney World
Life-size gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian Resort
48. Check out Christmas decorations during the holidays
One of the best times to visit Disney World is during the holidays! All the parks and resorts are decorated in their holiday best and it’s so much fun to walk around and get in the festive spirit.
I’m talking over-the-top decorations, giant Christmas trees, and lots of lights. An iconic display is the life-sized gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian – a must-visit if you’re at Disney during the holidays!
49. Create your own Disney penny souvenirs
One of the most budget-friendly experiences at Disney is collecting pressed pennies. You can find penny-press machines scattered throughout Disney World resorts and Disney Springs. It’s a cheap souvenir for just a dollar!
Yes, it’s not free but it is still very budget-friendly so I included it on this list. Even if you don’t get a pressed penny, it’s cool to see all the designs available!
50. Catch the Rainbow Tunnel at the Imagination Pavilion (EPCOT Resort Area)
Visit the Imagination Pavilion area near EPCOT (without entering the park) to see the famous Rainbow Tunnel, a throwback to the classic Journey Into Imagination ride. While it’s not quite the same as in the old attraction, it’s still fun to walk through and take some photos of this Disney throwback!
I hope I’ve given you some ideas for your next trip to Disney World whether you’re on a budget, need ideas for rest day, or just looking for new places to find free Disney magic without going to the parks!
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💸 Check out some of my other “Free Things to Do” guides!
📓 Here are all of my FREE printable itineraries!
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