If you’re looking for free things to do at Disney World with kids, you might be surprised by how much there actually is to do outside the parks.
Before I had kids, I thought Disney = park tickets every day. But once you start exploring the resorts and different areas around Disney, you realize there are so many fun things to do that don’t cost anything.
Whether you’re planning a rest day, trying to save money, or just want something different to do, these are some of our favorite free things to do at Disney with kids.
If you’re planning your trip, don’t miss my Disney hotel guide where I break down what’s actually worth it depending on your budget and travel style.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use, love, or think will actually be helpful for your trip.
🚠 Skyliner Resort Hop (One of the Best Free Things to Do at Disney With Kids)
One of the easiest (and most fun) ways to explore Disney for free is by hopping on the Skyliner.
You can turn this into a full afternoon by visiting multiple resorts:
- Caribbean Beach
- Riviera Resort
- Art of Animation
- Pop Century
Each resort has its own vibe, and they’re all worth walking around.
Art of Animation and Pop Century are especially fun for kids because of the larger-than-life theming — giant characters, huge movie scenes, and tons of places to explore.
If you’re looking for free things to do at Disney with kids that don’t feel like “just walking around,” this is a great option.
🐎 Visit Tri-Circle-D Ranch
At Tri-Circle-D Ranch, you can see the Disney horses — completely free.
You can pay for horseback riding if you want, but just walking around and seeing the horses is worth the visit.
Fort Wilderness itself is beautiful and feels completely different from the parks. It’s quieter, more relaxed, and perfect if you need a break from the crowds.
They also offer activities like archery (for a fee), which is something a little different if you’re looking to mix things up.
🎡 Walk the BoardWalk at Night
Disney’s BoardWalk is one of the best free things to do at Disney with kids in the evening.
There’s always something going on:
- Boardwalk-style games
- Street performers
- Magic shows
You can grab dinner, walk along the water, and even take a boat ride for a relaxing night.
This is one of those places that feels fun without needing a plan.
💡 Watch the Electrical Water Pageant
The Electrical Water Pageant is one of those hidden Disney experiences that a lot of people don’t know about.
It’s a floating nighttime light show that travels between resorts on the water.
It runs nightly, and you can check the schedule to see where and when to watch it.
If you’re looking for free things to do at Disney with kids at night, this is an easy one to add to your plans.
If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, there are actually so many free things you can do without stepping into the parks.
🔥 Campfire with Chip & Dale
At Fort Wilderness, you can join a campfire sing-along with Chip & Dale, and it’s such a fun experience for kids.
You can:
- Sit around the campfire
- Sing along
- Meet Chip & Dale
There’s a small fee if you want to buy s’mores, but you can absolutely just enjoy the experience for free.
This is one of those simple Disney moments that kids remember.
🎆 Watch Fireworks from the Polynesian (No Ticket Needed)
At Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you can watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks without being inside the park.
Head to the beach area and you’ll get:
- A great view of the fireworks
- Music piped in
- A relaxed, less crowded experience
You can grab food or drinks from the quick service and make a whole evening out of it.
If you’re searching for free things to do at Disney with kids that still feel magical, this is it.
🛍️ Explore Disney Springs
Disney Springs is one of the best places to spend a full day without a park ticket.
There’s honestly so much to do:
- Dozens of restaurants
- Live music
- Shopping
Fun stops for kids:
- The M&M’s store (sometimes you can meet an M&M!)
- The Coca-Cola store (you might even see the polar bear)
Upstairs at the Coke store, you can try drinks from around the world or get a float sampler — which is actually really fun to do as a family.
🚝 Ride the Monorail and Explore Resorts
Another one of the easiest free things to do at Disney with kids is riding the monorail.
Start at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, explore a bit, then ride over to:
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Each resort feels completely different, and the monorail ride itself feels like an attraction for kids.
🎬 Movies Under the Stars
Most Disney resorts show outdoor movies every night.
This is one of our favorite ways to slow things down.
We love going to the BoardWalk, grabbing pizza, and watching a movie outside. It’s simple, but it’s such a nice way to end the day.
🎉 Resort Activities (If You’re Staying On Property)
If you’re staying at a Disney resort, check the activity schedule — there’s usually a lot more going on than people realize.
Things like:
- Poolside games and trivia
- Family competitions
- Crafts like tie-dye shirts or bracelet making (for a small fee)
These are great for downtime and give kids something fun to do without extra planning.
💧 Easy Way to Save Money at Disney
One of the simplest ways to save money:
👉 Ask for free cups of water.
Quick service locations will give them to you, and it saves you from constantly buying bottled water — which adds up fast with kids.
🛍️ Shop My Disney Day Essentials
If you’re planning to spend time exploring resorts and doing these free things to do at Disney with kids, these are the items that make a big difference for us.
Also, if you’re packing for your trip, don’t miss my list of things people always forget to bring to Disney — it makes a big difference once you’re in the parks.
(This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
☀️ Stay Cool & Comfortable
🎒 Easy Bag Must-Haves
- Lightweight backpack or belt bag
- Snacks for kids
- Sunscreen stick
👶 For Little Kids
🌙 For Nighttime
- Light Jacket
- Glow sticks or light-up toys
✨ Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be in the parks every day to have a great Disney trip.
Some of these ended up being our favorite memories — and they didn’t cost anything.
If you’re looking for free things to do at Disney with kids, these are all easy, fun options that can completely change your trip.