Friends, I’m here to tell you that Disney World is makin’ it hand over fist. We traveled to Orlando last weekend. Yes, you guessed it if you follow our blog, -for another softball tournament. Daniel played in the USSSA Slow Pitch Men’s World Series Session at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports. Get this, I had to pay to watch him play. Can you believe they charge the cheerleaders? Not only did they charge me but pretty much socked it to me with a seventeen dollar entry fee per day and Daniel’s tournament was a three day event. GASP!! I about had a heart attack.
One charge at the ball field and I was on the hunt for all the free or inexpensive Disney entertainment I could find. The good news is that there were plenty of fun times to be had and yes, for FREE. So, I’ve done the homework for you and hope you have a great time on your next trip to Orlando!
Photo taken inside ESPN Wide World of Sports
5 Things To Do in Downtown Disney for FREE
- Interactive Fountains – A free splash area for kids (and adults if you dare). Great for those hot summer days. This is sure to keep your kids smiling and your pocketbook at ease.
- Dance Parties – Are your kids filled with tons of energy? No worries! Sit back and relax while the energetic Disney staff takes your kids into a wild dance party with tons of fun games, contests and of course dancing.
- Lego Imagination Center – This giant store has two free play areas for your cuties. One station is inside (geared more towards the little ones) and a large lego world outside which includes a race track. Challenge your child in a game of Lego carts or sit back on the benches and watch them play. Check out their up and coming events here.
- Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop – Is your family looking for a little snack without having to sell off your mortgage? Stop by the Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop for a FREE piece of chocolate upon entering. It’s not much but let me tell you, this is some of the best tasting chocolate ever and that small piece does the trick. It’s just enough. Then go to your local pharmacy or retail store and pick up sale candy for less.(You know I’m about saving!)
- Boat Ride – You can take the boat from downtown Disney to the Port Orleans Hotel. The ride is relaxing and something fun for all ages and then enjoy looking around and taking in the gift shop. Hey it’s a look-see trip.
Lego Imagination Center
Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop
There is another perk about downtown Disney- the parking is FREE. I know! I couldn’t believe it with but it’s true. While the restaurants are pricy you’ll find that packing a small over the shoulder cooler is the way to go if you’re on a budget. There are plenty of places to sit and eat while enjoying the free stuff. You could even pull a small wagon to carry all your goodies. Who knows, it might come in handy towards the end of the night and one of the kids is sleeping. I know, “he ain’t heavy, he’s my baby” but a wagon can help the love when going all the way back to the car. Daniel carried the baby last weekend as he slept on his shoulder. A wagon would have been nice for both baby and daddy.
Whatever you decide to do, have fun and remember that life is short and today only happens once. Be sure to checkout, 5 Ways to Save On The Souvenirs At Disney.
Katie Girl
