This Is Florida · Things to do

Free things to do in Florida, region by region

81 free places, free days and free events, from Pensacola to Key West. Each one shows what's free, what still costs money (usually parking), and the rules, like ID, residency or reservations.

Every listing was checked against an official page on November 8, 2026. Free days and fees change, so check the linked page before you go.

Find something free

Pick a region or a type, or search a town. Tap a place's name for its official page.

Statewide

These programs work all over Florida. Most dates below are for 2026. Watch for 2027 dates on each official page.

National Park Service entrance fee-free days (2026)

  • Free day

Free: Entrance fees are waived at every National Park Service site that normally charges one, on the listed days.

Still costs: Other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may still apply.

Rules: Starting in 2026, free entrance on these days is for US citizens and residents only; nonresidents pay the regular entrance fee and any nonresident fee.

When: 2026: Feb. 16, May 25, June 14, July 3 to 5, Aug. 25, Sept. 17, Oct. 27 and Nov. 11. The 2027 dates weren't posted yet.

What the official pages say
  • Beginning in 2026 the free entrance days are for US citizens and residents only. (source)
  • Nonresidents must still pay on free days unless they hold the Non-Resident Annual Pass. (source)
  • The first 2026 dates are Presidents Day (February 16) and Memorial Day (May 25). (source)
  • Veterans Day, November 11, is the last 2026 fee-free date. (source)

America the Beautiful free passes (military, 4th grade, access)

  • Statewide program

Free: Free federal recreation passes for current US military and dependents (annual), Gold Star family members and veterans (lifetime), US citizens and residents with a permanent disability (lifetime Access Pass), and US 4th graders.

Still costs: Other passes cost money: Resident Annual $80.00, Senior Annual $20.00, Senior Lifetime $80.00, Non-Resident Annual $250.00.

Rules: Passholders must show valid photo ID with each pass. Covers entrance and standard day-use fees at NPS, US Fish & Wildlife Service and other federal lands.

What the official pages say
  • Current US military and dependents get a free annual pass. (source)
  • US 4th graders get a free pass. (source)
  • US citizens and residents with a permanent disability get a free Access Pass. (source)
  • Photo ID is required with every pass. (source)

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service fee-free days (2026)

  • Free day

Free: National wildlife refuges that normally charge an entrance fee are free on these days.

Still costs: The waiver does not cover concessionaire or permit fees for some activities such as hunting, fishing or special tours.

When: 2026 list printed on the Loxahatchee refuge page: February 16; May 25; June 14; July 3–5; August 25; September 17; October 11 (First Sunday of NWR Week); October 27; November 11 (Veteran's Day)

What the official pages say
  • All refuges that normally charge an entrance fee are free on Veterans Day 2026. (source)
  • Refuges were also free on the first Sunday of National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 11, 2026. (source)
  • Concessionaire and permit fees still apply. (source)
  • The Loxahatchee refuge lists October 11 among its 2026 fee-free days. (source)

FWC license-free freshwater fishing weekends

  • Free day

Free: No fishing license is needed for any recreational angler, resident or non-resident, on these weekends.

Rules: All other rules such as seasons, bag and size limits apply.

When: First consecutive Saturday and Sunday in April; second consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June (2026: April 4 and 5; June 13 and 14)

What the official pages say
  • The license requirement is waived for residents and non-residents. (source)
  • Freshwater days are in April and June. (source)
  • The 2026 spring weekend was April 4 and 5. (source)
  • The 2026 June weekend was June 13 and 14. (source)

FWC license-free saltwater fishing days

  • Free day

Free: No saltwater fishing license is needed, including for crabbing, lobstering and scalloping, and no snook or spiny lobster permit.

Rules: All other rules such as seasons, bag and size limits apply.

When: First consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June; first Saturday in September; Saturday following Thanksgiving

What the official pages say
  • Saltwater days fall in June, September and after Thanksgiving. (source)
  • Snook and spiny lobster permits are not needed on these days. (source)
  • Regular seasons and limits still apply. (source)

FWC Youth Waterfowl Hunting Days (no license)

  • Free day

Free: Youth 15 and younger may hunt waterfowl with no license or permit, and a non-hunting supervising adult needs none either.

Still costs: Adults who help (decoys, calling, retrieving) need a hunting license and permits unless exempt.

Rules: Youth 15 and younger only, supervised by a non-hunting adult 18 or older; private land with permission and most waterbodies.

When: Nov. 14, 2026 and Feb. 13, 2027

What the official pages say
  • The first youth day is Nov. 14, 2026. (source)
  • The second is Feb. 13, 2027. (source)
  • No license or permit is needed for the youth or supervising adult. (source)

FWC Youth Deer Hunt Weekends (no license)

  • Free day

Free: Youth 15 and younger and supervising adults who only supervise need no license or permit.

Still costs: Anyone 16 or older who takes part needs a hunting license, deer permit and muzzleloading gun permit.

Rules: Youth may take one deer during the weekend, counted toward the statewide bag limit.

When: Zone A: Sept. 12-13, 2026; Zone B: Nov. 28-29, 2026; Zone C: Oct. 31 - Nov. 1, 2026; Zone D: Dec. 5-6, 2026

What the official pages say
  • Upcoming weekends are set by zone, including Nov. 28-29 and Dec. 5-6, 2026. (source)
  • No license is needed for youth or adults who only supervise. (source)

St. Johns River Water Management District lands

  • Park or nature

Free: District lands are open for hiking, fishing, trail riding and more, and reservable campsites are free of charge.

Rules: Most lands open for non-vehicular use 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; campsite reservations at least 24 hours ahead; pets leashed at all times; motorized vehicles prohibited with few exceptions; advance reservations needed for boat launch gate access at Buck Lake, Eustis Sand Mine Lake and Lake Apopka West Marsh.

What the official pages say
  • Most district lands are open all day, every day for non-vehicle use. (source)
  • District campsites are free. (source)
  • Pets must be leashed. (source)
  • Some boat launches need advance reservations. (source)

South Florida Water Management District Special Use Licenses

  • Park or nature

Free: Special Use Licenses for camping, equestrian camping, RV camping and other approved activities on district lands are free.

Rules: A Special Use License must be obtained for these activities.

When: SULs for June 1 through December 31, 2026 are open.

What the official pages say
  • Special Use Licenses cost nothing. (source)
  • Licenses for the second half of 2026 are open. (source)

Bank of America Museums on Us

  • Free day

Free: Free general admission for Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank credit and debit cardholders at participating museums.

Still costs: Special exhibitions, ticketed exhibitions, enhanced experiences and additional offerings are not included.

Rules: Show an active card and valid government-issued photo ID; one admission per cardholder; not transferable; does not guarantee admission; some museums limit to certain days.

When: First full weekend of every month (next listed: November 7th and 8th)

What the official pages say
  • Eligible cardholders get in free the first full weekend of each month. (source)
  • It covers one general admission per cardholder. (source)
  • Bring a government photo ID with your card. (source)
  • Florida participants include the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach. (source)

Blue Star Museums

  • Free day

Free: Free admission at participating museums for active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve.

Rules: Active-duty military and families only.

When: Each year from Armed Forces Day in May to Labor Day in September. The 2026 program has concluded; 2027 details not yet posted.

What the official pages say
  • The program offers free admission to active-duty military families. (source)
  • It runs from Armed Forces Day to Labor Day. (source)
  • The 2026 season is over; check back for 2027. (source)

Panhandle

The City of Pensacola still posts a state of emergency for Hurricane Isaias. Its parks notice, updated November 4, 2026, says some park areas have reopened and others remain closed. Check that notice before a visit.

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge (free Panacea and Wakulla units)

St. Marks

  • Park or nature

Free: Picnic facilities, trails and the launch point at the Otter Lake Recreation Area (Panacea Unit) are free, and Wakulla Unit trails and launch point are free.

Still costs: Main St. Marks unit entrance fee: $1 per bike/pedestrian, $5 per vehicle, $25 annual refuge pass. Taylor County collects a user fee at the Aucilla River/Mandalay boat ramp.

Rules: Open year round during daylight hours (gate on Lighthouse Rd. opens at 6 am); Panacea and Wakulla units daylight use only.

What the official pages say
  • Otter Lake picnic areas, trails and launch are free. (source)
  • Wakulla Unit trails and launch are free. (source)
  • The main refuge charges an entrance fee. (source)

National Naval Aviation Museum

Pensacola

  • Museum or garden

Free: Museum admission and parking are free, and guided tours led by volunteers are free.

Still costs: The museum is cashless. Flight simulators and the Giant Screen Theater are sold separately (the page links to ticket purchase).

Rules: The museum is on Naval Air Station Pensacola. U.S. citizens 18 and older must show a REAL ID or a valid U.S. passport. Public base access is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., seven days a week, through the West Gate at the south end of Blue Angel Parkway only. Drivers also need a REAL ID or passport. Non-U.S. citizens must be escorted by a U.S. citizen and carry specific immigration documents. People with felony convictions are not allowed on base. Vehicles and people may be searched. Clear bag policy; no backpacks, coolers, weapons, alcohol or drones. Uber and Lyft are not allowed on base. Museum open daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year's Day.

When: Free guided tours daily at 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

What the official pages say
  • Museum admission is free. (source)
  • Both admission and parking are free. (source)
  • Public base access is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through the West Gate only. (source)
  • Adults 18 and older need a REAL ID or a valid U.S. passport. (source)
  • Rideshare cars cannot enter the base. (source)

Air Force Armament Museum

Eglin AFB (near Fort Walton Beach)

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is free. Loaner wheelchairs are free.

Still costs: Donations are welcome.

Rules: The museum is not on the base installation and is open to all. Indoor museum open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Saturday; outdoor airpark open sunup to sundown, 7 days a week. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. No food or drink inside (water in clear containers allowed).

What the official pages say
  • Admission is free; donations are welcome. (source)
  • The museum is outside the base and open to everyone. (source)
  • Indoor hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. (source)

Baker Block Museum

Baker

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is free.

Rules: Open Tuesday to Friday and every third Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

What the official pages say
  • Admission is free; open Tuesday to Friday and every third Saturday. (source)
  • Okaloosa County's parks guide also lists free admission and free access to Ancestry.com and Newspapers.com. (source)

Okaloosa Island Beach Accesses

Fort Walton Beach (Okaloosa Island)

  • Beach

Free: The seven main Gulf-front beach accesses on Okaloosa Island have free parking, restrooms and pavilions. Beach wheelchairs are lent free.

Rules: Access #7 (Emerald Promenade Beachwalk) is open one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Beach wheelchairs are first come, first served and not available under red flag conditions; Okaloosa Island Public Safety will bring one (850-259-4131).

What the official pages say
  • The seven main beach accesses have free parking and restrooms. (source)
  • Access #7 hours run from an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunset. (source)
  • Beach wheelchairs are free, first come first served. (source)

North Florida

Fort Matanzas National Monument (free ferry)

St. Augustine

  • Park or nature

Free: All areas of the park are free, including the ferry to the fort.

Rules: Pick up a free boarding pass at the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center (not the St. Augustine city visitor center); everyone of every age needs a pass to board the ferry.

What the official pages say
  • The whole park and the ferry are free. (source)
  • Every family member needs a free ferry boarding pass. (source)
  • Boarding passes come from the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center. (source)

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

Jacksonville

  • Free day

Free: Free admission on the first Saturday and third Thursday evening of each month, plus every day for SNAP/EBT and WIC cardholders and children 5 and under.

Still costs: Regular admission: adults $20; students, seniors 65+, military and educators $18; college students free Tuesday to Friday and $18 on weekends. Reciprocal member benefits exclude parking.

Rules: Closed Mondays. Free days exclude ticketed events. ID is required for discounted and free categories. The museum may limit capacity.

When: First Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; third Thursday of each month, 4 to 8 p.m. (except ticketed events)

What the official pages say
  • First Saturdays are free, except ticketed events. (source)
  • Third Thursday evenings are free. (source)
  • SNAP EBT and WIC cardholders get in free every day. (source)
  • Adult admission is $20. (source)

MOCA Jacksonville (Museum of Contemporary Art)

Jacksonville

  • Free day

Free: The first floor is always free. Everyone gets in free on Saturdays (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and at Museum Nights on the first and third Wednesdays (5 to 9 p.m.).

Still costs: Regular admission: adults $10; seniors 60+, military, youth 6-17 and college students $6; children 5 and under free. Complimentary parking is listed as a member benefit.

Rules: Open Tuesday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Mondays. Closed Nov. 26-27, Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31, 2026 to Jan. 1, 2027.

When: Saturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; first and third Wednesdays 5 to 9 p.m.

What the official pages say
  • The first floor is always free. (source)
  • Saturdays are free for all visitors. (source)
  • Museum Nights on the first and third Wednesdays are free. (source)

Fernandina Beach City Beach Accesses (Main Beach)

Fernandina Beach

  • Beach

Free: The city lends beach wheelchairs (including a floating chair) free to people with disabilities. A Mobi-Mat at the Main Beach boardwalk ramp gives wheelchair and stroller access. The downtown paid-parking program ends November 18, 2026.

Still costs: Until Nov. 18, 2026, downtown paid parking is $2 per hour (plus fees), first 20 minutes free. Damage over $100 to a loaned beach wheelchair is charged to the renter.

Rules: Beach accesses are closed midnight to 5 a.m. Main Beach Park, North Beach Park, Seaside Park and Mantanzas Access have parking and ADA access; many smaller accesses have no parking. Wheelchair loans need a valid driver's license and a reservation at the Atlantic Recreation Center (904-310-3350); up to 7 days at a time.

When: Downtown paid parking ends November 18, 2026

What the official pages say
  • Beach wheelchair loans are a free service. (source)
  • Beach accesses close from midnight to 5 a.m. (source)
  • The downtown paid-parking program ends November 18, 2026. (source)
  • The paid area is downtown only, from Ash to Alachua Street and Front to 8th Street. (source)

St. Johns County Beaches (driving and walk-on)

St. Augustine area

  • Beach

Free: From October 1 through February 28, no pass is needed to drive on St. Johns County beaches. Disabled veterans can get one free annual pass. The county also lists beachfront parks with off-beach parking and dune walkovers.

Still costs: March 1 to Sept. 30: daily driving pass $15 (resident or non-resident), $5 ADA or active-duty military; annual pass $65 resident, $125 non-resident, $40 ADA.

Rules: About 12 miles of beach allow vehicles on designated sections; access depends on weather and tides and may be limited to 4-wheel drive. The A Street ramp (City of St. Augustine Beach) closes nightly at 5 p.m. County gates are open overnight Nov. 1 to April 30 unless weather requires closure; during sea turtle season (May 1-Oct. 31) they close 7:30 p.m. to 8 a.m. No driving on Anastasia State Park beaches. Resident rates need photo ID with a county address or proof of county property tax.

When: Driving passes not required October 1 through February 28

What the official pages say
  • No pass is needed to drive on the beach October through February. (source)
  • Daily passes are $15 for residents and non-residents in season. (source)
  • Disabled veterans get a free annual pass with documentation. (source)
  • In season, every vehicle on the beach must pay a toll and show a pass. (source)

Nights of Lights

St. Augustine

  • Community event

Free: Viewing the lights and walking the downtown streets is free. Park & Ride lots and shuttles are free on peak dates.

Still costs: Parking, paid tours, food and lodging cost money. The Historic Downtown Parking Garage rises to $40 per vehicle after 1 p.m. on free-shuttle days.

Rules: A walking event. Lights are on from dusk until 2 a.m. Free shuttle lots: Broudy's Lot (198 W. King St.), North San Marco Lot (301 San Marco Ave.), St. Johns County Health Department (200 San Sebastian View); drop-off at the Visitor Information Center (10 S. Castillo Dr.). Only trained service animals on shuttles; not every shuttle has a wheelchair lift, so there may be a wait.

When: November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Free shuttle 1 to 11 p.m. on Nov. 21, 27 and 28; Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 13, 18 to 24 and 26 to 31; and Jan. 1 and 2 (Dec. 5 from 8 a.m.).

On this site: St. Augustine Nights of Lights guide

What the official pages say
  • Viewing the lights is free. (source)
  • Season dates as printed by the city. (source)
  • Park & Ride parking and shuttles are free. (source)
  • The downtown garage costs $40 after 1 p.m. on shuttle days. (source)

Light-Up! Night

St. Augustine

  • Community event

Free: The opening-night lighting ceremony and downtown music in the Plaza de la Constitución, with free Park & Ride shuttles.

Still costs: Downtown parking costs money; the city urges using the free shuttle.

Rules: Music starts at 4:00 PM; the lighting ceremony is at 6:30 PM.

When: Saturday, November 21, 2026

What the official pages say
  • Light-Up! Night is Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026. (source)
  • The lighting ceremony is at 6:30 p.m. (source)
  • The city offers free park-and-ride lots and shuttles. (source)

Harn Museum of Art

Gainesville

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission to exhibitions and programs is free. Parking is free in the surface lot and garage on weekends and after 3:30 p.m. on weekdays.

Still costs: Weekdays 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., visitors must use the garage: $4 for 4 hours or $8 for 24 hours. Donations accepted.

Rules: Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday evenings 5 to 9 p.m. (Art After Dark); Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.; closed Mondays. Closed Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving) and Dec. 25.

When: Special hours: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2:30-6 p.m. only; Monday, Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

What the official pages say
  • Admission is free. (source)
  • Weekday daytime garage parking is $4 for 4 hours or $8 for 24 hours. (source)
  • Parking is free on weekends and after 3:30 p.m. weekdays. (source)

UF Bat Houses

Gainesville

  • Park or nature

Free: Watching the evening bat emergence is free, and there is a free parking lot next to the field.

Rules: North side of Museum Road across from Lake Alice (2664 Museum Rd.). Open seven days a week; no staff or facilities on site. Arrive before sunset; bats usually emerge 15-20 minutes after sunset on calm, warm evenings (above 65 F). Leashed pets allowed. Stay behind the wooden fence; do not walk under the houses or pick up a bat. Read campus parking signs.

When: Evenings, seven days a week

What the official pages say
  • There are no fees. (source)
  • A free parking lot sits next to the field. (source)
  • Visitors are welcome every evening. (source)

Florida Museum of Natural History: Tot Trot free day

Gainesville

  • Free day

Free: The Tot Trot toddler nature walk on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026 is free.

Still costs: Other Tot Trot dates charge a fee (the event page links to fee details).

Rules: For ages 2-5 with an adult chaperone. Check in at 9 a.m. at the UF NATL Natural Park Entrance on Natural Area Drive.

When: Tuesday, November 17, 9:00 am - 10:45 am

What the official pages say
  • The Nov. 17 Tot Trot is free. (source)
  • Recommended for ages 2-5 with an adult. (source)
  • The museum's exhibits building reopens to the public Monday, Nov. 23, 2026, with the Butterfly Rainforest expected to reopen the same day. (source)

Central Florida

Harry P. Leu Gardens free days

Orlando

  • Free day

Free: On set free days, the gardens are open to everyone at no charge. Active-duty military with ID and SNAP cardholders (plus up to three guests) also get free general admission.

Still costs: General admission is charged on other days. Separate admission is required for certain special and night events.

Rules: Cash is not accepted. Last entry is one hour before closing. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

When: 2026: November 2, December 7. 2027: January 4, February 1, March 1, March 13, March 14, April 5

What the official pages say
  • The gardens list upcoming free days for late 2026 and early 2027. (source)
  • On those days the gardens are open free to the public. (source)
  • SNAP cardholders get free general admission for themselves and up to three more people. (source)
  • The gardens do not take cash. (source)

Orlando Museum of Art - Access for All Thursdays

Orlando

  • Free day

Free: Admission is free on the third Thursday of every month, with extended hours to 8 pm. Active-duty military, veterans and first responders with ID are free any open day; children 5 and under are free.

Still costs: Regular admission on other days is $20 for adults.

Rules: Closed Mondays and major holidays. Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed.

When: Third Thursday of every month, 10 am to 8 pm

What the official pages say
  • On the third Thursday of every month, admission is free and the museum stays open until 8 pm. (source)
  • Military, veterans and first responders get in free with valid ID. (source)
  • Parking is free in the lot next to the museum. (source)

Rollins Museum of Art (formerly Cornell Fine Arts Museum)

Winter Park

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is free for all visitors.

Rules: Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9 am-4 pm, Thursday 9 am-7 pm, Saturday 11 am-4 pm, Sunday noon-4 pm. Closed Mondays, holidays and during installations.

What the official pages say
  • Admission is free for everyone. (source)
  • The museum is closed on Mondays, holidays and during installations. (source)
  • It is on the Rollins College campus in Winter Park. (source)

Mennello Museum of American Art - Free Family Funday

Orlando

  • Free day

Free: Free admission every second Sunday of the month (Free Family Funday). The Sculpture Garden is always open to the public. Active and retired military, veterans and their families get in free year-round.

Still costs: Regular admission: adults $8, seniors $5, students and children 6-17 $3.

Rules: Closed Mondays and major holidays. Military admission needs valid ID.

When: Every second Sunday of the month

What the official pages say
  • Free Family Funday happens every second Sunday of the month. (source)
  • Funday includes free admission, docent tours and an art project. (source)
  • The Sculpture Garden is always open to the public. (source)
  • Military personnel, veterans and their families get in free all year. (source)

Holiday Movies at Lake Eola Park

Orlando

  • Community event

Free: Free outdoor holiday movie screenings on the park's East Lawn.

Rules: Movies start at 7:00 PM on the East Lawn. The park is open 6 am to 11:59 pm daily.

When: 05 Dec 2026 (How the Grinch Stole Christmas), 12 Dec 2026 (Elf), 19 Dec 2026 (A Christmas Story)

What the official pages say
  • The City of Orlando lists free holiday movies on the East Lawn, starting at 7 pm. (source)
  • One of the listed screenings is A Christmas Story on December 19, 2026. (source)
  • Elf is listed for December 12, 2026. (source)

Hollis Garden

Lakeland

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is free.

Rules: Closed Mondays. September-May: Sunday-Thursday 10 am-6 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am-4 pm.

What the official pages say
  • The City of Lakeland says admission to the 1.2-acre garden is free. (source)
  • The garden is closed on Mondays. (source)
  • Hours from September to May are listed. (source)

Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (formerly Polk Museum of Art)

Lakeland

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is always free. Parking is free.

Rules: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10 am-5 pm; Thursday 10 am-8 pm; Sunday 1-5 pm (closed Sundays June through Labor Day). Closed Mondays and major holidays.

What the official pages say
  • The museum says admission is always free. (source)
  • The museum was formerly known as the Polk Museum of Art. (source)
  • Free parking is available. (source)
  • The museum is closed on Sundays in summer. (source)

Volusia County beaches (resident beach access)

Daytona Beach and Volusia County

  • Beach

Free: Volusia County residents who register get a free on-beach/off-beach annual pass. Vehicles with a handicapped ID are admitted to the beach free.

Still costs: Visitors and unregistered residents: on-beach driving $30 daily or $150 annual; off-beach parking $20 daily or $100 annual. Inlet Parks (Lighthouse Point Park and Smyrna Dunes Park) need a separate pass: $10 daily, $20 annual.

Rules: Residents must register online at parkvolusia.org or at a ParkVolusia office. City-owned lots (such as in Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach) set their own fees.

What the official pages say
  • Residents who register get a free combination beach driving and off-beach parking pass. (source)
  • Visitors pay $30 a day or $150 a year to drive on the beach. (source)
  • Off-beach parking for visitors is $20 a day or $100 a year. (source)
  • Vehicles with a handicapped ID get onto the beach free. (source)

Sounds of Summer Concert Series at the Daytona Beach Bandshell

Daytona Beach

  • Community event

Free: Free live music at the oceanfront Bandshell, presented by the City of Daytona Beach.

Rules: General seating is first-come, first-served.

When: Every Friday evening from June through August

What the official pages say
  • The city presents free live music at the Bandshell all summer. (source)
  • Concerts are held every Friday evening from June through August. (source)
  • Admission is free with first-come, first-served general seating. (source)
  • Separate free Saturday concerts with fireworks run May through September. (source)

Space Coast

Most Brevard County and city park pages blocked an automated check, so this region is short. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, below, waives its pass on federal fee-free days. Cape Canaveral, Melbourne and Brevard County pages are in the list of official pages to check.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (fee-free days)

Titusville

  • Free day

Free: The refuge pass is waived on federal fee-free days.

Still costs: A refuge pass is required for Black Point Wildlife Drive, Bio Lab Road and three boat ramps: $10.00 daily per vehicle, $10.00 per person on foot or bike, $25.00 annual. Cash only at the refuge.

Rules: Roads, trails and boat ramps open sunrise to sunset daily; NASA may restrict access during launch operations.

When: 2026 list as printed on the refuge page: February 16, May 25, June 14, July 3–5, August 25, Sept. 17, Oct. 27, November 11

What the official pages say
  • Merritt Island is a fee area; the daily vehicle pass is $10. (source)
  • Walkers and cyclists also pay $10 per person. (source)
  • The refuge lists 2026 fee-free days, ending with Veterans Day. (source)
  • NASA can restrict access during launches. (source)

Tampa Bay

De Soto National Memorial

Bradenton

  • Park or nature

Free: No passes or entrance fees for the park, visitor center, or the park's special events and activities.

Still costs: Programs needing a reservation (ranger-led kayak tours, junior ranger day camps, fishing clinics and others) require a ticket on Recreation.gov with a $1.00 non-refundable service fee per ticket.

Rules: Groups are asked to call at least two weeks ahead.

What the official pages say
  • De Soto charges no entrance fees, even for special events. (source)
  • Reserved programs carry a $1 ticket service fee. (source)

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (manatees)

Crystal River

  • Park or nature

Free: The refuge Visitor Center and Nature Store have no entry fee and overlook King's Bay.

Still costs: Entry fees for the Three Sisters Springs unit are set by the City of Crystal River; private boat ramps may charge.

Rules: Much of the refuge is reachable only by water; the refuge has no water-access facilities.

What the official pages say
  • The Visitor Center and Nature Store are free. (source)
  • Most of the refuge is only reachable by water. (source)
  • Three Sisters Springs fees are handled by the city. (source)

USF Contemporary Art Museum

Tampa

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is free and open to all. Exhibitions and events are free unless noted.

Still costs: Visitor parking needs a USF parking permit, sold at the pay station in the CAM lot (lot 3B) or through ParkMobile zone 9302.

Rules: Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm, Thursday to 8 pm, Saturday 1-4 pm. Closed Sunday, university holidays and between exhibitions; check the exhibition schedule or call ahead.

What the official pages say
  • Admission to CAM is free. (source)
  • The museum closes Sundays, university holidays and between exhibitions. (source)
  • Exhibitions and events are free unless noted. (source)
  • Parking requires a USF permit from the pay station. (source)

Rock the Park at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: Free monthly music event, open to the public.

Rules: No pre-registration required.

When: Monthly on the first Thursday, 6 - 9pm until Thu, Dec 3 2026

What the official pages say
  • The city calendar lists it as free and open to the public with no pre-registration. (source)
  • It runs monthly on the first Thursday through December 3, 2026. (source)

Tampa's Santa Fest & Tree Lighting

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: Free and open to the public.

Rules: No pre-registration required. Held at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

When: Sat, Dec 5 2026, 12 - 9pm

What the official pages say
  • The city lists the event as free with no pre-registration. (source)
  • It is hosted by City of Tampa Parks and Recreation at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. (source)

Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (Tampa Riverwalk viewing)

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: Watching is free from viewing spots along the Tampa Riverwalk.

When: December (the city says dates change each year)

What the official pages say
  • The city says you can watch the parade for free along the Riverwalk. (source)
  • The city says event dates change each year. (source)

Gasparilla Festival of the Arts

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: Admission is free to this juried outdoor art show.

Rules: Held at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park.

When: March (the city says dates change each year)

What the official pages say
  • Admission to the art festival is free. (source)
  • The city says event dates change each year. (source)

River O'Green Fest

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: The city's St. Patrick's Day festival, when the Hillsborough River is dyed green, is free.

Rules: Held at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

When: March (the city says dates change each year)

What the official pages say
  • The festival at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is free. (source)

Boom by the Bay (Fourth of July)

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: Admission is free to the City of Tampa's official Fourth of July celebration.

Rules: Held at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park.

When: July (Fourth of July)

What the official pages say
  • The city's July Fourth celebration has free admission. (source)

Fiesta Day in Ybor City

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: A free street festival on Seventh Avenue in Ybor City.

When: February (the city says dates change each year)

What the official pages say
  • The city describes Fiesta Day as a free street festival. (source)

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade

Tampa

  • Community event

Free: A free, family-friendly parade through East Tampa.

When: Each year on the national Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (January)

What the official pages say
  • The city describes the parade as free and family-friendly. (source)

St. Pete Pier

St. Petersburg

  • Park or nature

Free: There is no charge to enter the Pier District, and most events are free. The Downtown Looper trolley to the Pier entrance is free.

Still costs: Parking in the Pier lots and meters is paid. Some special events are ticketed.

Rules: Pets must be on a leash six feet or shorter. Fishing only on the Fishing Deck. No overnight parking.

What the official pages say
  • Entry to the Pier District is free and most events are free. (source)
  • Parking at the Pier lots is paid at pay stations, meters or the Park Mobile app. (source)
  • The Downtown Looper trolley is free and stops at the Pier entrance. (source)
  • Pets must be leashed. (source)

Southwest Florida

The Sarasota, Venice, Lee, Naples and Collier County sites blocked an automated check, so their beaches are listed under official pages to check at the bottom of the page.

Big Cypress National Preserve

Ochopee

  • Park or nature

Free: There is no entrance fee to the preserve.

Still costs: Some facilities charge fees; an annual off-road vehicle permit is $100 per vehicle; camping fees apply.

What the official pages say
  • Big Cypress has no entrance fee. (source)
  • Some facilities and off-road vehicle permits cost money. (source)
  • The off-road vehicle permit is $100 a year. (source)

J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Sanibel

  • Park or nature

Free: The Visitor & Education Center and its parking are free, and the Bailey Tract trails are free year-round.

Still costs: Wildlife Drive is $10 per vehicle; Indigo Trail is $1 per person.

Rules: Visitor Center 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., closed Fridays and all federal holidays. Wildlife Drive closed every Friday. Bailey Tract open sunrise to sunset. Dogs allowed on Wildlife Drive, Indigo Trail and Bailey Tract on a leash no longer than six feet.

What the official pages say
  • The visitor center is free and closed Fridays and federal holidays. (source)
  • The Bailey Tract is free from sunrise to sunset. (source)
  • Wildlife Drive costs $10 per vehicle and is closed Fridays. (source)
  • The Indigo Trail costs $1 per person. (source)

The Ringling - Free Mondays at the Museum of Art

Sarasota

  • Free day

Free: On Mondays, the Museum of Art, Bayfront Gardens and Glass Pavilion are free to the public.

Still costs: Regular admission still applies to the Circus Museum and Ca' d'Zan.

Rules: You can't book free Monday tickets ahead of time: register in the Visitors Pavilion when you arrive, or skip the line by buying regular Museum Admission online. As of November 1, 2026, The Ringling is cashless on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays (physical credit and debit cards only; no phone wallets).

When: Mondays

What the official pages say
  • The Museum of Art, Bayfront Gardens and Glass Pavilion are free on Mondays. (source)
  • The Circus Museum and Ca' d'Zan still charge regular admission on Mondays. (source)
  • Free Monday entry can't be booked in advance; you register in the Visitors Pavilion on arrival. (source)
  • Starting November 1, 2026, The Ringling takes cards only on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays. (source)

Fort Myers Monthly Music Walk

Fort Myers

  • Community event

Free: Music Walk is free to attend.

Still costs: Parking may cost money; the city points visitors to Denison Parking to plan parking.

Rules: Local and regional musicians play along First Street in downtown Fort Myers, with lineups that change each month, 6pm to 10pm.

When: Monthly; next listed November 20, 2026, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

What the official pages say
  • Music Walk is free. (source)
  • It takes place on First Street downtown. (source)
  • The city calendar lists the November 2026 Music Walk on November 20, 6 to 10 PM. (source)

Fort Myers Monthly Art Walk

Fort Myers

  • Community event

Free: Art Walk is free to attend.

Still costs: Art is for sale; buying is optional.

Rules: Run by the River District Alliance on the first Friday of every month, along First Street in downtown Fort Myers. Local and regional artists display and sell their work.

When: the first Friday of every month; listed November 6, 2026, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

What the official pages say
  • Art Walk is free. (source)
  • It happens on the first Friday of every month. (source)
  • The city calendar lists the November 2026 Art Walk on November 6, 5 to 9 PM. (source)

BAM!Fest (Bradenton Art & Music Festival)

Bradenton

  • Community event

Free: There is no admission fee.

Still costs: Only food, drinks and anything you buy at the Meandering Market.

Rules: Along the Bradenton Riverwalk from the Green Bridge to the Desoto Bridge. Rain or shine. Free parking at several downtown garages (City Centre, Manatee County and Judicial Center garages). Organizers say the event may not be a good place for dogs; owners are liable for their animals.

When: April 3, 2027

What the official pages say
  • BAM!Fest has no admission fee. (source)
  • Free parking is offered at several downtown garages. (source)
  • The next BAM!Fest is April 3, 2027. (source)

Winter Wonderland in Downtown Bradenton

Bradenton

  • Community event

Free: Winter Wonderland is free to the public.

Still costs: Only holiday shopping or food you choose to buy.

Rules: On Old Main Street (12th Street) between Manatee Ave and the City Centre Parking Garage, 5:00-8:00pm. The City Centre Parking Garage is free. Rain or shine. Organizers say it may not be a good place for pets.

When: Saturday, December 5, 2026, 5:00-8:00pm

What the official pages say
  • The event is free to the public. (source)
  • It runs 5 to 8 pm on Saturday, December 5. (source)
  • The organizer's events page confirms the December 5, 2026 date. (source)
  • The City Centre Parking Garage is free to the public. (source)

Music in the Park (Bradenton)

Bradenton

  • Community event

Free: Music in the Park is a free outdoor concert series.

Still costs: Food and treats from vendors cost money.

Rules: Downtown Bradenton; local and regional bands, with a food vendor and an animal shelter partner at each show.

When: 2027 Dates: April 9, April 16, April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, 2027

What the official pages say
  • The concert series is free. (source)
  • The first 2027 concert is April 9, 2027. (source)
  • The last listed 2027 concert is May 21, 2027. (source)

CREW Marsh Trails and CREW Cypress Dome Trails

Immokalee

  • Trail

Free: The trails are free and open to the public; donations are accepted.

Still costs: Donations accepted.

Rules: CREW Trust lists hours as one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Dogs allowed on a leash. There is one port-a-potty at the Marsh Trails trailhead and no trash cans, so pack out what you bring. Horseback riding at Cypress Dome needs a special use permit.

What the official pages say
  • The Marsh Trails are free, open to the public, and accept donations. (source)
  • The South Florida Water Management District says the Marsh Trails are free and open 365 days a year. (source)
  • Leashed dogs are allowed at the Marsh Trails. (source)
  • The Marsh Trails are at 4600 Corkscrew Road in Immokalee. (source)

CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trails

Naples

  • Trail

Free: Open to the public, free of charge.

Rules: Open 365 days a year, sunrise to sunset. A 12-mile grassy loop on an old logging tram roadbed; open for hiking, nature study, geocaching, birding and trail biking.

What the official pages say
  • Bird Rookery Swamp Trails are free and open every day of the year. (source)
  • The trail is a 12-mile grassy loop. (source)

Palm Beach

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge

Boynton Beach

  • Park or nature

Free: Entrance is free for visitors on foot, bicycle or horseback, and for everyone on posted fee-free days.

Still costs: Daily pass $10.00 per vehicle (cash or check at the refuge, or online at Recreation.gov).

Rules: Headquarters Area trails, boat ramps and outdoor facilities open daily 5:00 am to 10:00 pm; Hillsboro and 20 Mile Bend areas open 24 hours.

When: 2026 fee-free days as printed: February 16; May 25; June 14; July 3–5; August 25; September 17; October 11; October 27; November 11

What the official pages say
  • Walk-in, bike and horseback visitors pay no entrance fee. (source)
  • Driving in costs $10 per vehicle. (source)
  • The Headquarters Area is open 5 am to 10 pm. (source)

Four Arts Gardens (Society of the Four Arts)

Palm Beach

  • Museum or garden

Free: Garden admission is free.

Rules: Daily 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting; closed major holidays. No pets except leashed service dogs; no bicycles.

What the official pages say
  • There is no charge to visit the gardens, open daily 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (source)
  • The gardens close in bad weather and on major holidays. (source)
  • Pets other than leashed service dogs are not allowed. (source)

Palm Beach County beach parks

Palm Beach County

  • Beach

Free: Admission to county beach parks is free.

Still costs: Parking fees at R. G. Kreusler Memorial Park (Palm Beach) and South Inlet Park (Boca Raton).

What the official pages say
  • Park admission is free; only two parks charge for parking. (source)
  • The two parks with parking fees are Kreusler (Palm Beach) and South Inlet (Boca Raton). (source)

Miami and Fort Lauderdale

Biscayne National Park

Homestead

  • Park or nature

Free: There is no entrance fee to the park.

Still costs: Day use docking at Boca Chita and Elliott Keys is $25.00 (Friday - Monday and federal holidays); overnight camping and docking is $60.00 per night; parking, shuttle or ferry fees are possible.

Rules: A boat is needed to reach the islands; docking and campsites are first come-first served and paid through the recreation.gov app.

What the official pages say
  • Biscayne has no entrance fee. (source)
  • Docking at the islands costs $25 on busier days. (source)
  • You need a boat to get to the islands. (source)

Metromover

Miami

  • Free ride

Free: Riding the Metromover people mover is free.

Rules: Runs seven days a week through downtown Miami, Omni and Brickell; check the county page for service notices.

What the official pages say
  • Metromover is a free elevated people mover that runs seven days a week in downtown Miami, Omni and Brickell. (source)
  • It serves 21 stations from Brickell to the Omni area. (source)
  • The county was posting a service notice about the Brickell Loop when checked. (source)

Miami Beach Citywide Free Trolley

Miami Beach

  • Free ride

Free: Rides on the city trolley are free.

Rules: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., 7 days a week, about every 20 minutes per route.

When: Daily, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

What the official pages say
  • The City of Miami Beach runs a free trolley. (source)
  • It runs 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. (source)

Coral Gables Trolley

Coral Gables

  • Free ride

Free: Rides on the city trolley are free.

Rules: Monday to Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; no service Sundays, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving or Christmas.

When: Monday through Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

What the official pages say
  • The trolley is free Monday through Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (source)
  • It does not run on Sundays or a few holidays. (source)
  • A free Southern Loop route began as a one-year pilot in November 2025. (source)

Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami)

Miami

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is free.

Rules: Closed Monday and Tuesday; open Wednesday to Sunday 11 AM to 6 PM. Free advance tickets highly recommended; walk-ups may be turned away at capacity.

What the official pages say
  • Admission to ICA Miami is free. (source)
  • Advance tickets are highly recommended. (source)
  • Open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM. (source)

The Wolfsonian-FIU

Miami Beach

  • Free day

Free: Free Fridays from 6 to 9 pm every week; Florida residents are free at any time.

Still costs: Adults $12; seniors, students and children 6-18 $8.

When: Fridays, 6–9pm every week

What the official pages say
  • Admission is free every Friday evening. (source)
  • Florida residents get in free. (source)
  • Regular admission costs $12 for adults. (source)

Frost Art Museum FIU

Miami

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is always free.

Rules: Open during normal museum hours; on FIU's Modesto A. Maidique Campus.

What the official pages say
  • Admission is always free and open to the public. (source)
  • It is free during normal museum hours. (source)

Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami

Coral Gables

  • Museum or garden

Free: General admission is free.

Still costs: Campus parking: PayByPhone $1.50 an hour plus a transaction fee; all-day $8.

Rules: Wednesday to Saturday, 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Advance tickets highly recommended. Groups of 10 or more must register.

What the official pages say
  • General admission is free. (source)
  • Open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. (source)
  • Reserving tickets ahead is highly recommended. (source)
  • Parking costs $1.50 an hour by phone. (source)

The Bass Museum of Art

Miami Beach

  • Free day

Free: Free on Third Thursdays 6-9 PM and on the last Sunday of every month (Family Day); Miami Beach and Surfside residents are always free.

Still costs: General admission $15. Metered parking; no museum parking.

Rules: Closed Monday and Tuesday. Residents need valid ID or proof of residence. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

When: Monthly Third Thursdays from 6 – 9PM; last Sunday of every month

What the official pages say
  • Third Thursdays are free from 6 to 9 PM. (source)
  • The last Sunday of each month is a free Family Day. (source)
  • Miami Beach and Surfside residents get in free. (source)
  • The museum has no parking of its own. (source)

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Miami Beach

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission is free.

Rules: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm.

What the official pages say
  • The garden is free, open Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 5pm. (source)
  • It is free and open to all. (source)

Museum of Miami: Free After-School Wednesdays

Miami

  • Free day

Free: Free entry on Wednesday afternoons for families with elementary and K-8 students.

Still costs: Regular adult admission $15. Validated parking is a flat $5.

Rules: Advance registration required; students must be with a legal guardian. Guided tour limited to 20 people.

When: Every Wednesday afternoon, 2 P.M. – 5 P.M.

What the official pages say
  • The museum runs free after-school Wednesdays. (source)
  • Self-guided visits run 2 to 5 P.M. (source)
  • Advance registration is required. (source)
  • Validated parking costs $5. (source)

Haulover Skate Park & Pump Track

Miami Beach

  • Park or nature

Free: Skate park admission is free.

Still costs: Park parking: $7 for cars Monday-Thursday; $10 weekends and holidays.

Rules: Sunrise to sunset. Signed waiver required for kids under 18. No electric or motor vehicles.

What the official pages say
  • Admission is free, but parking fees apply. (source)
  • A signed waiver is required for kids under 18. (source)
  • Parking is $7 for cars Monday to Thursday. (source)
  • Parking is $10 for cars on weekends and holidays. (source)

NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale

  • Free day

Free: Free admission the first Thursday of every month, 11 am - 7 pm.

Still costs: Adults $16 other days.

Rules: Closed Mondays. No backpacks or large bags in galleries.

When: First Thursday of every month, 11 am – 7 pm

What the official pages say
  • Admission is free on the first Thursday of every month. (source)
  • Regular adult admission is $16. (source)

Florida Keys

Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

Key West

  • Community event

Free: Watching Sunset Celebration is free. The organizers ask visitors to support the artists, performers and food vendors.

Still costs: The Mallory Square parking lot costs $4.00 per hour. Buying art and food and tipping street performers is optional.

Rules: Held on Mallory Square Dock and Plaza every night, weather permitting. It starts about two hours before sunset and ends soon after sunset. Organizers suggest walking or biking because the lot gets very crowded at sunset.

When: every night 7 days a week, 365 days a year (weather permitting)

What the official pages say
  • There is no entrance fee for Sunset Celebration. (source)
  • The Mallory Square parking lot costs $4.00 per hour. (source)
  • The festival runs every night of the year, weather permitting. (source)
  • It begins about two hours before sunset. (source)

Key West Garden Club at Fort West Martello (Higgs Beach)

Key West

  • Museum or garden

Free: Admission to the Key West Garden Club's gardens at Fort West Martello is free.

Still costs: Donations are welcome.

Rules: Open daily 9:30 am to 5 pm, except Christmas and New Year's Day. It sits at 1100 Atlantic Blvd inside Higgs Beach park, which Monroe County lists as open daily from 7:30 a.m. until sunset.

What the official pages say
  • The gardens are free to enter, and donations are welcome. (source)
  • The gardens are open daily 9:30 am to 5 pm, except Christmas and New Year's Day. (source)
  • Monroe County says the Garden Club offers free self-guided tours of the gardens at Fort West Martello in Higgs Beach park. (source)
  • Monroe County lists Higgs Beach park as open daily from 7:30 a.m. until sunset. (source)

Key West Historic Cemetery

Key West

  • Park or nature

Free: A free self-guided tour map is available at the cemetery's front entrance.

Rules: Open 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily (the city lists summer hours of 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM). This is an active cemetery. The Sexton's office is open 8:30 to 3:30, Monday through Friday; guided tours can be arranged through that office.

What the official pages say
  • The city offers a free self-guided tour map at the front entrance. (source)
  • Guided tours can be arranged by contacting the Sexton's office. (source)
  • The cemetery lists summer hours of 7 AM to 7 PM and winter hours of 7 AM to 6 PM. (source)

Harry Harris Park

Tavernier (Key Largo area)

  • Park or nature

Free: Monroe County residents get in free; entry fees are charged only to people who don't live in Monroe County. One county page says the fees apply only on weekends and holidays.

Still costs: Non-county residents: $15 per vehicle. Boat ramp: $40 on non-holiday weekends, $60 on holidays and the two-day July lobster mini-season, plus the vehicle fee.

Rules: Open daily from sunrise to half an hour after sunset (ball fields until 10 p.m.). Active military, disabled veterans and immediate family get the vehicle fee waived with proper I.D. Boat-trailer parking is first-come, first-served.

What the official pages say
  • Admission fees are charged only to people who don't live in Monroe County. (source)
  • Non-residents pay $15 per vehicle. (source)
  • The boat ramp page lists the fees as weekend fees, for non-county residents only. (source)
  • Active military, disabled veterans and immediate family get the fee waived with I.D. (source)

Islamorada Founders Park

Islamorada

  • Park or nature

Free: Village residents and their guests get free admission to the park. Active U.S. military, honorably discharged veterans and disabled veterans, plus up to four family members, get free use of the park and pool with military ID.

Still costs: Non-residents pay to enter the park: adults (18-64) $10, and youth/senior (3-17) $7. On summer weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and on Easter, Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day, those park fees are $15 for adults and $10 for youth/senior. Pool entry is extra: adults (18-64) $5, youth/senior (3-17) $3.

Rules: The park is open sunrise to sunset. The pool and park office are open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. Residents need a household account and a Resident ID card for the resident rate. No alcohol. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in picnic areas. No fishing.

What the official pages say
  • Village residents and their guests receive free admission to the park. (source)
  • Non-resident park entry is $10 for adults (18-64) and $7 for youth/senior (3-17). (source)
  • Summer weekend and holiday non-resident park fees are $15 for adults and $10 for youth/senior. (source)
  • Active U.S. military, honorably discharged veterans and disabled veterans, plus up to four family members, get free use of the park and pool with military ID. (source)

Free days and free events calendar

Everything on this page with a set day or date. Some 2026 dates have already passed. Each official page will post the next ones.

WhatWhereWhen
National Park Service entrance fee-free days (2026)Statewide2026: Feb. 16, May 25, June 14, July 3 to 5, Aug. 25, Sept. 17, Oct. 27 and Nov. 11. The 2027 dates weren't posted yet.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service fee-free days (2026)Statewide2026 list printed on the Loxahatchee refuge page: February 16; May 25; June 14; July 3–5; August 25; September 17; October 11 (First Sunday of NWR Week); October 27; November 11 (Veteran's Day)
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (fee-free days)Titusville2026 list as printed on the refuge page: February 16, May 25, June 14, July 3–5, August 25, Sept. 17, Oct. 27, November 11
FWC license-free freshwater fishing weekendsStatewideFirst consecutive Saturday and Sunday in April; second consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June (2026: April 4 and 5; June 13 and 14)
FWC license-free saltwater fishing daysStatewideFirst consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June; first Saturday in September; Saturday following Thanksgiving
FWC Youth Waterfowl Hunting Days (no license)StatewideNov. 14, 2026 and Feb. 13, 2027
FWC Youth Deer Hunt Weekends (no license)StatewideZone A: Sept. 12-13, 2026; Zone B: Nov. 28-29, 2026; Zone C: Oct. 31 - Nov. 1, 2026; Zone D: Dec. 5-6, 2026
Bank of America Museums on UsStatewideFirst full weekend of every month (next listed: November 7th and 8th)
Blue Star MuseumsStatewideEach year from Armed Forces Day in May to Labor Day in September. The 2026 program has concluded; 2027 details not yet posted.
Cummer Museum of Art & GardensJacksonvilleFirst Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; third Thursday of each month, 4 to 8 p.m. (except ticketed events)
MOCA Jacksonville (Museum of Contemporary Art)JacksonvilleSaturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; first and third Wednesdays 5 to 9 p.m.
Nights of LightsSt. AugustineNovember 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Free shuttle 1 to 11 p.m. on Nov. 21, 27 and 28; Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 13, 18 to 24 and 26 to 31; and Jan. 1 and 2 (Dec. 5 from 8 a.m.).
Light-Up! NightSt. AugustineSaturday, November 21, 2026
Florida Museum of Natural History: Tot Trot free dayGainesvilleTuesday, November 17, 9:00 am - 10:45 am
Harry P. Leu Gardens free daysOrlando2026: November 2, December 7. 2027: January 4, February 1, March 1, March 13, March 14, April 5
Orlando Museum of Art - Access for All ThursdaysOrlandoThird Thursday of every month, 10 am to 8 pm
Mennello Museum of American Art - Free Family FundayOrlandoEvery second Sunday of the month
Holiday Movies at Lake Eola ParkOrlando05 Dec 2026 (How the Grinch Stole Christmas), 12 Dec 2026 (Elf), 19 Dec 2026 (A Christmas Story)
Sounds of Summer Concert Series at the Daytona Beach BandshellDaytona BeachEvery Friday evening from June through August
Rock the Park at Curtis Hixon Waterfront ParkTampaMonthly on the first Thursday, 6 - 9pm until Thu, Dec 3 2026
Tampa's Santa Fest & Tree LightingTampaSat, Dec 5 2026, 12 - 9pm
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (Tampa Riverwalk viewing)TampaDecember (the city says dates change each year)
Gasparilla Festival of the ArtsTampaMarch (the city says dates change each year)
River O'Green FestTampaMarch (the city says dates change each year)
Boom by the Bay (Fourth of July)TampaJuly (Fourth of July)
Fiesta Day in Ybor CityTampaFebruary (the city says dates change each year)
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day ParadeTampaEach year on the national Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (January)
The Ringling - Free Mondays at the Museum of ArtSarasotaMondays
Sunset Celebration at Mallory SquareKey Westevery night 7 days a week, 365 days a year (weather permitting)
Fort Myers Monthly Music WalkFort MyersMonthly; next listed November 20, 2026, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Fort Myers Monthly Art WalkFort Myersthe first Friday of every month; listed November 6, 2026, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
BAM!Fest (Bradenton Art & Music Festival)BradentonApril 3, 2027
Winter Wonderland in Downtown BradentonBradentonSaturday, December 5, 2026, 5:00-8:00pm
Music in the Park (Bradenton)Bradenton2027 Dates: April 9, April 16, April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, 2027
The Wolfsonian-FIUMiami BeachFridays, 6–9pm every week
The Bass Museum of ArtMiami BeachMonthly Third Thursdays from 6 – 9PM; last Sunday of every month
Museum of Miami: Free After-School WednesdaysMiamiEvery Wednesday afternoon, 2 P.M. – 5 P.M.
Coral Gables Museum Gallery NightCoral GablesEach first Friday of the month, 6-10 PM
NSU Art Museum Fort LauderdaleFort LauderdaleFirst Thursday of every month, 11 am – 7 pm

Tips for a free day out

  1. Free entry isn't free parking. Many places on this page are free to enter but charge to park, like Haulover Skate Park, the St. Pete Pier and the Lowe Art Museum. Look for the "Still costs" line.
  2. Bring ID. The National Naval Aviation Museum is on a Navy base: adults need a REAL ID or a U.S. passport. Resident-only deals, like Volusia's beach pass and the Wolfsonian's free entry for Florida residents, need proof of where you live.
  3. Check the day before. Free days move, and storms close parks. Some free tickets can't be booked ahead; at The Ringling, you register when you arrive.
  4. Bring a card. More places are cashless now, including the Naval Aviation Museum.
  5. Going to the beach? Check the flags with the beach warning flags guide. Need a beach wheelchair? Several counties lend them free: see accessible Florida beaches.
  6. Free fishing days still follow season rules. The Florida fishing license guide covers license-free days and which saltwater activities those days include.

More ideas: the Florida beaches and Florida parks pages, and the camping guide.

More official pages to check

These official sites blocked an automated check, so their details are not listed here. Many have free places or free days. Open the link before a visit.

Where sources differ

QuestionOne sourceAnother source
Who gets in free on National Park Service free days?NPS passes page and Castillo de San Marcos fees page: "free admission to everyone"The same passes page, plus the Big Cypress, Biscayne, Timucuan and De Soto fee pages: U.S. citizens and residents only, starting in 2026. This page follows the residents-only rule, because it's newer and more specific.
Is Oct. 11, 2026 a refuge fee-free day?Merritt Island refuge page: its list leaves it outThe Fish and Wildlife Service's event page and the Loxahatchee refuge page include it. This page lists it, and suggests calling Merritt Island first.
What ID gets you onto the base for the Naval Aviation Museum?Museum visit page, older paragraph: any government ID, like a driver's licenseSame page and museum FAQ: a REAL ID or a U.S. passport. This page follows REAL ID or passport.
When are the Cummer Museum's free days?Admission page: shows several older schedulesThe current schedule on the same site: first Saturday and third Thursday evening. This page follows the current schedule. Check the museum calendar.
When does Nights of Lights end?City of St. Augustine: "Sunday, January 18, 2027"Jan. 18, 2027 is a Monday. This page gives the date without a weekday. The city's FAQ and shuttle page also describe the shuttle days differently.
When does Harry Harris Park charge non-residents?Park page: $15 per vehicle, no days givenBoat ramp page: lists it under weekend and holiday fees. Check before you go.
What time is the Fort Myers Art Walk?Older city listing: 6 to 10 p.m.Current city calendar: 5 to 9 p.m. on Nov. 6, 2026. This page follows the current calendar.
What are the CREW trail hours?CREW Land & Water Trust: an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunsetWater management district sheet: sunrise to sunset. Plan for sunrise to sunset.

Questions people ask

When are the free days at national parks in Florida?

In 2026 the National Park Service fee-free days are Feb. 16, May 25, June 14, July 3 to 5, Aug. 25, Sept. 17, Oct. 27 and Nov. 11. Starting in 2026 they're for U.S. citizens and residents. Some Florida park units never charge an entrance fee at all, including Big Cypress, Biscayne, Timucuan, Fort Matanzas (ferry included) and De Soto National Memorial.

Which Florida museums are always free?

Official pages say these charge no admission: the Rollins Museum of Art in Winter Park, the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art in Lakeland, ICA Miami, the Frost Art Museum at FIU, the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami, the Harn Museum of Art in Gainesville, the USF Contemporary Art Museum in Tampa, the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, the Air Force Armament Museum near Eglin and the Baker Block Museum. Parking can still cost money.

Do I need a fishing license on Florida's free fishing days?

No. FWC says no license is needed on its license-free fishing days, for residents or visitors. Freshwater days are the first full weekend in April and the second weekend in June. Saltwater days are the first weekend in June, the first Saturday in September and the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Are Florida beaches free?

The cost is often parking or driving, and it changes by county. Palm Beach County's beach parks are free to enter. Okaloosa Island's seven main beach accesses have free parking. St. Johns County doesn't require a driving pass from Oct. 1 to Feb. 28. Volusia County charges visitors to drive or park on the beach, while registered residents get a free pass.

Are Florida State Parks free?

Florida State Parks charge entrance fees at most parks. The state parks website blocked an automated check, so those parks are not listed here. Check floridastateparks.org for each park's fees and any free days.

Can military families get in free?

Yes, in several ways. America the Beautiful passes are free for current U.S. military and their dependents, Gold Star families and veterans. Blue Star Museums gives active-duty families free admission at participating museums from Armed Forces Day to Labor Day. Several museums on this page, like the Orlando Museum of Art and the Mennello Museum, also list free admission for military.

A listing on this page is not an endorsement.