4 Super Cheap Summer Activities for the Budget-Minded Florida Traveler
Have you noticed how expensive vacation activities have become lately? Are you looking for some cheap summer activities to do in Florida during your upcoming visit? Dare we say…maybe even some free summer activities? Never fear, the MouseEars crew has you covered!
Now, please don’t misunderstand us, because we know for many of you, theme parks, thrilling roller coasters, fine dining, and beautiful beachfront hotel resorts are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In fact, we actively encourage all of our readers to discover the very best Florida has to offer!
However, as average American families are finding it harder and harder to maintain their standard of living due to ever-increasing inflation, some vacationers may need to think about mixing less expensive options into their summer vacation itinerary. The great news is that this is very doable, and even better, being budget-friendly won’t mean sacrificing great vacation memories for the future!
With this in mind, here are four super inexpensive things to do in Florida that you’re sure to love! (Yes, it really is possible to have fun without going bankrupt in the process!) Of course, you can still tease folks about how you’d be happy just living homeless in an orange crate, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you really want to… Right??
Seashell Hunting on Sanibel and Captiva Islands
Located on Florida’s West Coast about a two and half-hour drive south of Tampa, Sanibel and Captiva Islands are renowned for their world-class shelling. They are both routinely found atop the most notable lists for sea shelling in the United States.
The best times for finding great-looking shells are early mornings at low tide, especially during a full moon phase. The gravitational effect of a full moon will bring the most shells ashore overnight. Just keep in mind that collecting live shells is illegal in the state of Florida, so make sure any shells you collect are empty of any sea life!
Local beach shops will have all the gear you need including shell scoops and mesh bags, as well as an assortment of books on the activity. We recommend Beach Stuff, located on Captiva Drive near Lakia Lane.
Pan Fishing in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
The State of Florida is known as a world-class fishing destination. People travel from around the world to catch dream trophy fish like Blue Marlin and Sailfish. However, we suggest something a little smaller—but just as much fun! The center of the state is blessed with several lake chains which attract freshwater anglers from across the country for their trophy size Bass and Rainbow Trout. But we are still thinking a little bit smaller.
That’s right, we’re thinking about pan fishing! Florida’s bountiful waterways are brimming with a host of panfish species including Blue Gill, Sun Fish, and Florida Crappie. If you have kids, there is no better fun to be had than fishing off of one of the many piers found along the shores of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes which are scattered throughout Lake, Orange, and Osceola counties. Whether you’re doing catch and release or bringing home a mess of fish to fry up, we are certain you and the kids will have a blast.
Our top two suggestions are Lake Tohopekaliga and East Lake Tohopekaliga in the Orlando suburbs of Kissimmee and Saint Cloud, Florida. Named after a Seminole Indian Chief, the two lakes are referred to as Lake Toho and East Lake Toho by the locals.
Lake Front Park in Saint Cloud is especially nice with a beautiful boat marina, waterfront restaurant, and public beach complete with a volleyball net and covered pavilions. The Kids will have a blast and you will, too! Just make sure you get a pic of your little princess and her fishy friend before he wiggles off the hook!
(Snap. Way to go, Dad, two thumbs up. Giggle, giggle…)
Freshwater licenses are just $17 while youth under the age of sixteen are free. (One of our favorite words!) And speaking of free, be aware that the state also hosts several license-free weekends during the summer!
Check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website for dates and further info.
Operation Geocaching at Florida State Parks
Geocaching is a great family activity, and Florida is a great location to explore some of the best spots in the country. Operation Geocaching is a joint project between the
Simply visit 20 Florida State Parks located between Pensacola and Key West and win the Official Operation Recreation Geocoin. There is no time limit so you can start on your next trip and continue as you return to the state again and again. (Because you know you’re coming back, right?)
There is also the geocaching kids tour where the kids get a species tracking sheet and try to spot each animal in the park during their visit. Great fun for the little ones in your group!
This is an awesome way to explore some of the Sunshine State’s best state parks, even if you’re not a huge hiker or outdoorsy type. Some of our favorite spots include Blue Spring, Falling Waters, and Silvers Springs State Parks.
The Classic Car Parade at Old Town Kissimmee
Old Town Kissimmee, located on Hwy 192 near Walt Disney World in Kissimmee, Florida, is one of the area’s oldest shopping and entertainment districts. Tons of unique shops and fun eateries can be found here. Designed in the style of some of old Florida’s classic tourist towns, it provides a great aesthetic and a nod to Florida’s historic past.
Perhaps one of the best-kept secrets for Central Florida vacationers is Old Town’s weekend Classic Car parade and concert. Nearly every weekend throughout the year—and especially during summer—you can enjoy a classic car parade down Old Town‘s main street! Enjoy the classic Cadillacs, Thunderbirds, and Hotrods that roll past while rocking to the beat of classic Rock and Roll from the 50s through the 1980s. Best of all, you won’t pay a dime for the night’s entertainment. It doesn’t get any better than that!
You can save all that change for some great shopping and dining while you’re there. Nathan’s Hotdogs and Froggers Grill and Bar are just a couple of examples of the great food choices you can find. For the ladies, don’t forget to stop into Vivian’s Day Spa for a facial and manicure, while dad and the kids hang out at Happy Days Family Fun Center for some serious foosball contests.
After the cars roll through, relax and enjoy the band as they belt out the sounds of years gone by like Runaround Sue, Sugar Sugar, and American Band. We know your whole crew will enjoy the experience. Of all the suggestions on this list, Kissimmee Old Town‘s Classic Car Parade may well be the best bang for your vacation buck!
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