When’s the last time you made the short trip to Disney World? It’ll cost you more next time — a trip to the most magical place on Earth is only getting pricier.
While we love a trip to our hometown theme parks, we’re also fond of activities that cost a little less. Here are a few of our no-cost favorites:
Lake Eola Park | Remember a baseball and a glove — this park in the heart of downtown has open space for burning off steam or slowing down with a picnic. There’s also a playground for kids ages 2 and up.
The Orlando Public Library System | Explore the city’s 15+ library locations, each featuring its own range of events across the city, including story time, craft sessions, and educational fun.
Leu Gardens | On the first Monday of the month, the 50-acre garden opens its gates for free. It’s perfect for exploring winding paths, strolling through butterfly gardens, marveling at towering oak trees, and developing a love for nature + the great outdoors.
The 2025 Great American Beer Festival awards are here, and one Orlando brewery made the cut. Next time you’re looking for a local brew, try the Toboggan Blonde Ale from Ivanhoe Park Lager House, which took home the silver medal in its category.
Sports
And here’s a good pairing. The World Series starts this Friday, Oct. 24, and whoever you’re rooting for, baseball just isn’t baseball without a hot dog. Get ready for the action by preparing a special, Orlando-style hot dog.
Mansion Monday
Do you love the pool but hate the mosquitoes? This recently listed Lake Nona area home has got you covered, literally, with its huge screened-in outdoor area. If you ever choose to head inside, 6,600+ sqft, six bedrooms, a four-car garage, and exquisite open-plan living spaces await.
Gallery
This year’s spectacular Wildlife Photographer of the Year winners are in.Countless species spanning six continents are all featured in the stunning photos, now on display at the Natural History Museum in London. If you want to enter next year’s contest, we recommend honing your skills at The Orlando Wetlands. (The Guardian)
State
Could someone tell where you’re from by peeking into your pantry? A bag of key lime pie-flavored candy would give it away — The Takeout just named the sweet treats Florida’s most iconic snack. Hungry for more? Dig into the latest Orlando food news.
Try This
Heads up, gamers. Netflix has introduced a slate of video games within the streaming service — including “Pictionary: Game Night” and “Tetris Time Warp” — that allow customers to scan a QR code and use a phone as the controller. Before you rush to the television, solve today’s word puzzles on ORLtoday. (Entrepreneur)
Ready to sleep better tonight? Canary’s melatonin-free sleep gummy is packed with tart cherry + ashwagandha for rested, refreshing sleep — use code SLEEP20 for 20% off.*
Work
City Guide
A spontaneous spooky adventure
Terminal C is open after years of planning and construction, which were impacted by economic recession and the pandemic. | Photo provided by Orlando International Airport
Are you feeling a little extra this Halloween? A quick trip to one of the most ghoulish cities in the US could be right up your cobweb-lined alley. To see things that go bump in the night — and hopefully, not on the flight — a last-minute visit to Orlando International Airport is the place to start.
Let’s help make your trip through MCO as smooth as possible:
What to know
Parking | Not everyone has someone who will drop them off at the terminal at 3 a.m., but thankfully, MCO has options. See rates for short-term, long-term, and valet parking.
TSA | MCO can get busy, so the airport advises giving yourself enough time to be at security two hours before your departure time. Pro tip:Enroll in TSA PreCheck for lower wait times.
Reminder | As of May 7, 2025, flyers now need a REAL ID (or another acceptable form of ID, like a passport) to board commercial flights in the US.
Korean beauty products are more than just a trend — they’re becoming a staple in skincare routines worldwide. Known for their innovative formulas and emphasis on prevention over correction, K-beauty is all about keeping your skin healthy from the start. Here are our top five picks, all under $35 and available on Amazon:
🧴 Dr.Althea’s 345 Relief Cream moisturizer soothes, nourishes, and reduces the appearance of dark spots.
🫧 This No. 1 bestselling cleansing oil is hypoallergenic and safe for all skin types.
⭐ A TikTok favorite, Medicube’s Collagen Jelly Cream boosts hydration + leaves your skin with a radiant, healthy glow.
👁️ This retinal cream delivers an advanced form of retinol deep into the skin to target wrinkles and promote soother, firmer skin.
🧖 The Biodance collagen face masks brighten, improve elasticity, and minimize pores.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
