Learn about evening dance parties, movies, car shows, opera and more that meeting attendees can enjoy in Orlando — for free.


Updated March 23, 2021

Orlando’s unique, vibrant nightlife doesn’t just offer countless entertainment options for meeting attendees and groups. It’s also packed with value, thanks to numerous free options for visitors who want to explore a different side of the destination! From opera singers at Universal Orlando Resort to outdoor movies in the heart of downtown, here’s your guide to free ways for your attendees to unwind after a productive day in Orlando.

Please note: Depending on the timing of your visit, some experiences may be temporarily modified or closed. Learn more about healthy business travel and safety information in Orlando, and check with your favorite businesses for their current status.

Free Nighttime Activities in Orlando’s Tourism District

Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal CityWalk and Loews Portofino Bay Resort at Universal Orlando

Offering 30 acres of entertainment, dining and shopping at Universal Orlando Resort, Universal CityWalk is a fun place to hang out and relax after a day of meetings — or a day of fun at Universal Studios FloridaUniversal Islands of Adventure or Universal Volcano Bay.

On top of complimentary admission and free parking after 6 p.m., your group can take advantage of free water taxi rides, which run between Universal CityWalk and four of Universal Orlando Resort’s onsite hotels, including Hard Rock Hotel® at Universal OrlandoLoews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal OrlandoLoews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando, and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando. Other ways to have free nighttime fun at Universal CityWalk include watching sports at Hot Dog Hall of Fame’s real stadium seats and dancing to a live DJ.

While enjoying a free ride on Universal CityWalk’s water taxis, hop off when you arrive at Loews Portofino Bay Resort at Universal Orlando for Musica della Notte (aka Music of the Night) every evening, when available. Beginning at sunset, the event features classically trained opera singers performing traditional opera, festive melodies and even popera: a unique blend of pop music and opera. Talk about ending a group outing on a high note — literally!

Disney Springs® and Disney’s BoardWalk

Offering free admission and free parking, plus acclaimed dining, shopping and entertainment, Disney Springs® at Walt Disney World Resort® also features a plethora of free activities, including street performers and live musicians. And if your attendees brought their kids with them (or are just kids at heart), they’ll want to stop by The LEGO® Store, where visitors can build LEGO figures at no cost.

Lesser known but also worth a visit is Disney’s BoardWalk, which is within walking distance of EPCOT® and Disney’s Hollywood Studios®. Based on turn-of-the-20th-century Atlantic City, this free attraction invites your guests to stroll along a Coney Island-style boardwalk filled with free evening entertainment, such as jugglers, comedians, fire-eaters and more.

At both locations, you can also ride free ferries that travel to Magic Kingdom® Park, EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The Wheel at ICON Park at night
The Wheel at ICON Park® in Orlando

ICON Park®

Don’t let your attendees come to Orlando without snagging selfies in front of The Wheel at ICON Park® on International Drive. Fortunately, doing so won’t cost a cent thanks to free admission and parking at the entertainment, dining and shopping complex.

Your group can also watch The Wheel’s nightly lighting on the central green, which is a great place to kick back and relax after exploring the International Drive area. ICON Park’s other attractions include Madame Tussauds OrlandoSEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, In the Game ICON Park, 7D Dark Ride Adventure and more, all down the street from the Orange County Convention Center.

Old Town Car Cruises

Close to Walt Disney World Resort in Kissimmee, and modeled after Florida communities of yesteryear, Old Town is a family-friendly entertainment zone with attractions, restaurants, shops — and free admission. For a trip down memory lane, or to ogle classic cars, check out their Saturday Nite Car Cruise, which is America’s longest-running weekly car show.

Other car cruises are held on select nights throughout the year. What’s more, Old Town hosts a wide range of free, live entertainment, as well as weekly cash prizes, drawings and giveaways. 

Free Nighttime Activities in Downtown Orlando & Winter Park

fountain at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando at night
Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando

Movieola at Lake Eola Park

On the last Friday of the month from April through August, this free outdoor film series in downtown Orlando features entertainment that’s suitable for all ages, making it a great option for attendees who travel with their children. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, snacks and leashed pets, and food is available for purchase. The event starts at 6 p.m., with the movie usually beginning around 8:15 p.m.

Orlando Brewing

Adjacent to downtown Orlando’s Amtrak train station, Orlando’s original craft brewery offers free tours starting at 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and parking is free.

Popcorn Flicks in the Park

Typically held on the second Thursday of each month and co-hosted by the city of Winter Park and Maitland’s Enzian Theater, this free program invites people of all ages to catch a movie in Winter Park’s gorgeous Central Park beginning at sunset. Featured movies are always suitable for all ages, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and blankets. Winter Park is about 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando.

Want to learn more about meeting in Orlando? Submit your RFP, and subscribe to our newsletter for updates from Cvent’s No. 1 meeting destination in the country.