7 Free Things to Do in Florida This Summer

It’s too hot to stay inside the house right now. Here are some great ideas to enjoy the Sunshine State this summer!

With its miles of sunny blue beaches, its lush natural beauty, and exciting nightlife, Florida beckons visitors from all over the world ready to enjoy its many charms. But as we all know, the Sunshine State can be an expensive place to live or visit.

But here’s the good news: Most people (even state residents!) don’t know about all of the free and affordable fun things to do. Here are seven that are totally free. Of course, during these times, make sure you take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and others from exposure to COVID-19.

1. Hit the Beach!

With its 825 miles of beaches, Florida is a sun-and-surf lover’s paradise. Luckily, some of its most renowned spots remain free to the public. Whether your taste runs from the vibrant energy of Miami’s South Beach to the peaceful shores of Clearwater and Naples, you’ll find the right place for you to grab a towel and sunscreen, drop your worries, and bask in the sun.

2. Lively and Fun

Although admission to Walt Disney World is not free, there are a good number of Disney-branded activities in and around the parks that let you and your family enjoy the magic without spending a fortune. For example, you can stroll through the dining, entertainment, and shopping mecca of Disney Springs. Another fun place is Disney’s lively Boardwalk Resort. For nature lovers, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is an 11,500-acre conservancy that offers bird watching and hiking opportunities.

3. For History Buffs

Beautiful St. Augustine, which dates back to 1565, is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the US. It’s the closest you’ll feel to the Old Continent while remaining in the US. The charming pedestrian-only St. George Street is a fascinating walk through the past. You’ll want to visit the Castillo de San Marcos, the Old City Gate, and the charming historic houses.

4. Free Art

Just by taking a leisurely stroll, residents and visitors can experience art, from striking murals to provoking graffiti. One top spot to experience this free cornucopia is Underline Park, as well as Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood. A neglected garment manufacturing district in the 1970s, Wynwood is now a unique and funky art district.

5. Fascinating Museums

Although most of Florida’s museums are not free, there are some free options, including the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee, and the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville. Both great places to visit with the whole family!

6. Mile Marker Zero

Are you a geography buff? Then you’ll want to snap a picture in front Mile Marker 0, the famous Key West landmark. Why? Because it means you’ve reached the very southern end of the continental United States, and the southernmost point of US Route 1, which runs all the way to the border with Canada.

7. Virtual Yoga

In an effort to aid in social distancing efforts and minimize the risk of COVID-19, Bayfront Park’s free yoga classes, which are sponsored by Baptist Health South Florida, are now virtual! You may join via Zoom every Tuesday and Thursday at 6 p.m.