orlando area tourist attractions

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Orlando, FL

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Orlando is located in one of the world's most visited tourist regions and attracts tens of millions of visitors from across the globe every year. The big draw? Well, in addition to having year-round near-perfect weather where even the winters are mild, this bustling city just so happens to boast some of Florida's top tourist attractions : Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Resort.

The establishment of these mega-amusement parks has encouraged countless other investors involved in the travel and leisure sectors, and today there are limitless hotels, motels, and resorts in Orlando and the Kissimmee area to choose from. These, along with the many thousands of restaurants, dozens of golf courses, and numerous other attractions and things to do in Orlando, all add up to prove that Walt was right when he took a gamble on the city back in 1971.

While many people think of Orlando as only a family destination dominated by activities targeted at children, adults will find plenty to keep them entertained as well. Attractions like the Harry P. Leu Gardens make for nice escapes, and the Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral is within easy reach of the city.

Whatever you plan on doing while you're here, be sure to discover the best of this area with our list of the top attractions in Orlando, Florida.

1. Walt Disney World Parks

2. universal theme parks, 3. seaworld orlando, 4. discovery cove, 5. disney's typhoon lagoon & blizzard beach water parks, 6. universal's volcano bay water theme park, 7. day trip to kennedy space center visitor complex, 8. gatorland, 9. disney springs, 10. lake eola park, 11. orlando science center, 12. harry p. leu gardens, 13. icon park, 14. winter park, 15. celebration, 16. exotic animal experience, where to stay in orlando for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to orlando, orlando, fl - climate chart.

Walt Disney World Resort is Florida's most popular family attraction and has been ever since the Magic Kingdom opened its gates to the public back in 1971. Since then, the resort, usually referred to by guests simply as Disney World, has grown tremendously. It encompasses four theme parks, two water parks, a shopping and entertainment district, a sports complex, an extensive boardwalk, as well as numerous Disney-owned accommodation options.

Of its four parks, Magic Kingdom Park is the most iconic, with Cinderella's Castle standing at the center of the park. If you've not been to Magic Kingdom for a few years, you may want to make it a priority next time you're in Orlando. In addition to major refurbishments and upgrades to many of the classic children's favorites, a number of newer rides aimed at older audiences have been added, including the state-of-the-art TRON Lightcycle / Run, one of the world's fastest roller coasters.

Epcot's Spaceship Earth geosphere stands at the entrance of this exposition-style park, which includes Future World and the World Showcase, an around-the-world experience that gives visitors a chance to peek at different cultures. While traveling the world and visiting the 11 pavilions dedicated to each participating country, you can meet popular international Disney characters like Mulan, Belle, and Mary Poppins.

Disney's Hollywood Studios park gives you the opportunity to see into the world of movie magic, with exciting stunt and special effect shows. It's here you can also enjoy thrilling new film-themed rides like the Star Wars -inspired Star Tours and Rise of the Resistance, and for younger audiences, the epic Toy Story Mania.

The Kilimanjaro Safari experience at Animal Kingdom is an amazing way to see African animals run free in a natural habitat, and the massive Tree of Life makes the perfect backdrop for family photos. Also worth a ride and the sometimes lengthy line-ups, Expedition Everest is an exciting roller coaster ride that even ends with a Yeti encounter.

Fireworks and parades are nightly events throughout the parks, and there are special events held at each, year-round. Although lines for the top attractions and rides can be notoriously long, there are options available that can help you get the most out of your visit.

Disney's many resort hotel complexes make the experience complete and offer a full range of themed destinations, from budget accommodations like Disney's Pop Century Resort to the Port Orleans Resort ( Riverside or French Quarter ) to the shopping, restaurant, theater, and music experiences awaiting you in Disney Springs. Another big plus is that beginning in 2024 guests at Disney resorts will once again benefit from perks such as early entry, extended evening hours, and those excellent Disney Dining Plans. Yeah!

Authors' Tips: If you're planning on visiting multiple parks, allow at least a day for each. A little advance planning can go a long way, too, so be sure to arrive with a short list of must-ride attractions for each using the handy free park maps to plot an itinerary. And make use of Disney's Genie Service , a handy online itinerary tool, to help plan your day, including providing faster access to your must-do rides. Purchasing multi-day, all-park passes are another good idea and offer significant savings the longer you plan on staying.

Consisting of three individual parks, Universal Orlando Resort has in recent years certainly upped its game as a challenger to Disney's theme park supremacy. The addition of new rides and attractions within each of the parks – Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay – has certainly helped, and these days you can easily spend as much time exploring Universal's rich world of characters as you can Disney's.

Universal Studios Florida is the original and is a combination theme park and working studio that was designed in consultation with Steven Spielberg to give visitors an interactive experience with the filmmaking industry. While it's popular with all ages, its numerous thrilling roller coasters and wet rides ensure its reputation as one of the best places to visit in Florida for those traveling with teenage kids.

Universal's Islands of Adventure has eight uniquely themed zones that are each dedicated to a film franchise. These include Seuss Island, The Lost Continent, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, Skull Island: Reign of Kong, and Marvel Superhero Island.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the park's newest addition. This wonderful area of the park remains true to the magical world created by J.K. Rowling, complete with Hogwarts Castle, the Hogwarts Express, and even Hogsmeade when you're thirsty. Diagon Alley extends into the Universal Studios park, where visitors can join Harry's escape from Gringotts bank.

If you're keen on taking as many rides as possible in the shortest time, consider investing in the Express Pass. This handy add-on allows you to zip to the front of the line once per attraction.

Universal Studios also has regular events and celebrations suitable for the whole family. City Walk , also part of Universal, is a huge entertainment complex featuring dining, shopping, movies, and other entertainment options throughout the day and night.

Location: Universal Blvd, Orlando, Florida

SeaWorld Orlando is known for its massive aquariums, dolphin and whale shows, touch pools, and many exciting rides. Although guests may no longer feed the dolphins, you are still able to reach into the interactive Dolphin Cove pool and pet these beautiful, intelligent creatures. Also fun are the Dolphin Encounters where you get to spend time with a trainer as they interact with the creatures in their care.

Those who want to get even more hands-on can sign up for an up-close tour with the dolphins, killer whales, sea lions, penguins, or sharks. Other special tours include a behind-the-scenes look at SeaWorld operations and tours of the manatee rehabilitation center or the dolphin nursery, where the park's youngest dolphins are cared for.

In addition to the plethora of sea life, the park has many exciting rides for all ages, including several water rides that are refreshing on a hot Florida day. The park's most popular thrill rides are its roller coasters, including the Mako hyper coaster, the Manta Coaster, and the Kraken Virtual Reality Coaster.

If you find yourself in the park on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday night you'll be treated to an impressive fireworks display. Special fireworks displays are also presented on holidays including July 4.

Address: 7007 SeaWorld Drive, Orlando, Florida

Located next to SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove is one of the area's premier attractions. Visitors to the park can interact with ocean life in a more natural setting, including snorkeling along a coral reef, exploring underwater with a full dive helmet, wading among stingrays, and swimming with the dolphins.

There's also a large aviary on-site where you can interact with exotic birds and a relaxing lazy river that you can explore and snorkel in. There's also a tropical swim area where you can splash in the pools or relax in a lounge chair on the sandy beach.

Available to purchase are all-inclusive or one-day passes. Due to the extreme popularity of Discovery Cove, it's best to book a reservation well in advance during peak season.

Address: 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, Florida

Typhoon Lagoon is Disney's biggest and most popular water park . Inside, you'll find a wide variety of attractions for all ages, including kiddie rides and swimming and splash areas, like Ketchakiddee Creek, a play area designed for young children.

Surfers will love the huge wave pool, and those who want to give it a shot can sign up for surfing lessons. Other attractions include a peaceful ride along the lazy river, whitewater adventures on Miss Adventure Falls, and thrill rides like Humunga Kowabunga. In addition, multiple waterslides are located throughout the park for various age levels. There's even a sandy beach where kids can play while parents relax.

Author's Tip : If there's a little wiggle room in your waterpark budget, consider stepping your Disney experience up a notch with a beach hut rental. These family-sized shady "shacks" come with cushioned seating, a fan, a cooler with unlimited water, and even attendant service. It's even better if combined with the special after-hours ticket which allows a limited number of park guests to linger for up to three hours after everyone else leaves. Sure, these extras are a little pricey, but they certainly up the fun quotient.

Address: 1145 East Buena Vista Boulevard, Orlando, Florida

Opened with great fanfare in 2017, Volcano Bay Water Theme Park is Universal's newest attraction and replaced the original Wet 'n Wild. Like the other area theme parks, there are play-and-stay options available for those who want to truly immerse themselves in the experience.

Krakatau sits at the center of the park and houses the popular Aqua Coaster thrill ride. Waturi Beach faces the volcano, where guests can relax on a sandy beach and swim in the large wave pool. Here, guests can use one of the provided lounge chairs, upgrade to padded loungers, or even rent a cabana.

Exciting park attractions include huge waterslides, tubing, and thrill rides. There are also plenty of areas dedicated to younger guests, including a zero-entry wading area.

As an added convenience, the park has introduced the TapuTapu, a waterproof wearable device that allows guests to electronically get "in line" for one ride at a time, and then spend their wait time relaxing instead of standing in the hot sun in a line. The device is free and given to each guest upon arrival.

If you download the app prior to your visit and enter your credit card information, you can also charge food and beverage purchases with just a tap of your TapuTapu.

Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, Florida

About an hour's drive away, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is one of the most popular day trips from Orlando . A visit here allows you the unique opportunity to see one of NASA's best-known operations centers.

Be sure to visit the Heroes and Legends exhibits, which introduce you to the lives and careers of those who made the space program possible, from engineers to early space explorers. This also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, as well as the Rocket Garden, where you can see the rockets from some of NASA's most famous flights, including the Apollo and Gemini programs.

One of the major highlights is the exhibit showcasing the original Space Shuttle Atlantis . Standing mere feet away from this iconic machine and seeing the scars of flight and reentry is spellbinding. Over 60 exhibits provide information about the space shuttle and the program overall.

Other exhibits include lunar exploration, mock astronaut training, the shuttle launch experience, and an IMAX theater. If you time your visit right, you can even watch launches from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Since it opened in 1949, Gatorland has welcomed millions of guests through its famous gates to see the thousands of alligators, crocodiles, and other reptiles on display, some of which perform in daily shows and demonstrations. The "Alligator Jumparoo" show and "Gator Wrestlin'" are two examples. The facility is also home to rare white leucistic alligators.

A small train follows a set route around the grounds, and an observation tower provides views of the breeding marsh and surrounding region. One of the more recent additions to Gatorland are two ziplines: the Screamin' Gator and the Gator Gauntlet. The courses run above the alligator and crocodile pens.

For the less adventurous there is still the self-guided swamp walk, and on hot days, kids will enjoy the Gator Gully Splash Park. And before you leave, be sure to grab a selfie posing in the jaws of the park's original giant alligator at the attraction's entrance.

Address: 14501 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida

While paying a visit to Disney Springs (formerly Downtown Disney before a major rebrand and facelift) is undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in Orlando, it can easily turn out to be an expensive diversion from the theme parks. Why? Well, while this exquisitely designed entertainment, dining, and shopping district is free to wander, the temptations to dive into the purse or reach for the wallet are plentiful.

For shoppers, the urge to splurge will strike in the Town Center area. Looking like it could be located on the Mediterranean, this tree-lined area of Disney Springs is home to numerous chic fashion stores from leading brands such as Anthropologie, Coach, and Johnson & Murphy. All told, there are more than 103 places to shop (and spend) here.

Traveling with kids? Then you'll no doubt take them shopping in the iconic World of Disney store, just one of the numerous Disney-specific shopping destinations here. Add to this a huge LEGO store, Build-a-Dino, and the ultimate little princess outlet, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and leaving Disney Springs empty-handed is all but impossible.

Then there's the dining and entertainment. Disney Springs boasts 64 dining options from fast food to fine dining, and 25 unique attractions including the incredible Vintage Amphicars Cirque du Soleil, which has a permanent home here. So sure, you can visit for free, including the parking... but will you want to?

Authors' Tip : If you're planning on a sit-down meal in Disney Springs, you better make sure to have made a reservation. While walk-ins are occasionally available, you'll likely not otherwise get a meal when you want it, where you want. Disney Springs offers an excellent online reservation system that's easy to use and saves a lot of disappointment.

Address: 1486 Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Situated in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is a must-do for those wanting to experience just a little of what this dynamic city has to offer outside of the theme parks. Originating as a sinkhole before being landscaped and turned into a public park in 1888, it's a surprisingly large green space, with plenty of fun things to do.

A highlight of a visit is strolling along the nearly mile-long paved pathway that circles the lake. Along the way, you'll pass families enjoying rides in swan-shaped paddleboats, as well as the real swans who live here, and the Walt Disney Amphitheater, with its regular roster of live music performances. Bring a picnic, or grab a take-out from one of the restaurants and enjoy a great lunch al fresco.

Authors' Tip: Getting to Eola Park from the Orlando theme parks requires traveling along the often congested Interstate 4. It's the only direct route for the theme parks in the south of Orlando and travels right through the city center. If you've got time-sensitive events to attend at places like the Amway Center , a dinner in Winter Park – or even the excellent Orlando Farmer's Market , held each Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm – plan accordingly and allow plenty of additional time, just in case!

Address: 512 East Washington Street, Orlando, Florida

The Orlando Science Center showcases several branches of science, from mechanics to biology and applied technology. Among a variety of themed exhibits, the top favorite is often "Kids Town." Kids Town is available to children under 48 inches tall and is full of interesting and stimulating interactive exhibits.

Also worth experiencing are the laser shows and large-format films at the Dr. Phillips CineDome. In addition to the exhibit galleries, the Science Center presents touring exhibits from across the country.

It's worth noting that this world-class attraction is located in Orlando's superb Loch Haven Cultural Park , a lovely green space that's a delight to explore on foot. Established as a cultural hub for the city, it features numerous walking trails that connect other major attractions, including the Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Repertory Theater, Orlando Fire Museum, and the Mennello Museum of American Art and Sculpture Garden.

Address: 777 East Princeton Street, Orlando, Florida

If you are feeling a bit overstimulated with all the noise, crowds, and action at the theme parks and need a dose of nature, head a short distance from downtown Orlando to the beautiful Harry P. Leu Gardens . Spread out over 50 acres are ponds, fountains, and gardens, with walking trails winding their way through the various areas.

Highlights of your visit should include a stroll under moss-draped camphor and elm trees and a visit to the extensive rose gardens. Also, don't miss the large collection of palms and bromeliads.

Address: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, Florida

Spread across 20 acres on International Drive, ICON Park is an interesting mix of open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment, and includes a number of great attractions suitable for all ages. Anchoring the site is the huge Wheel at ICON Park , a 400-foot-tall Ferris wheel that offers incredible views over the area. It's especially impressive at night when the wheel is illuminated by 64,000 lights that regularly change color.

Other fun things to do here include visiting the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando waxworks, as well as riding the Orlando StarFlyer , billed as the tallest swing ride in the world . For toddlers, a ride around the park on the Pearl Express is a must, while teens will love the on-site arcade.

Address: 8375 International Drive, Orlando, Florida

A visit to the city of Winter Park, an easy 15-minute drive from downtown Orlando, is definitely worthwhile. Not only is this leafy district home to some of the best luxury shopping along ritzy Park Avenue and in Winter Park Village , but it's also home to a number of first-rate dining opportunities (Boca Winter Park is a must for fine dining).

For culture vultures, you're spoiled for choice. Winter Park is home to a number of world-class art galleries, most notably the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, which focuses on the unique glass art of Louis Comfort Tiffany; the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, which features both contemporary and antique artworks; and the delightful Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens.

The city also added a state-of-the-art events center in 2021, a stunningly designed structure that also houses the city library. Add to this a number of excellent museums such as the Casa Feliz Historic Home, along with beautiful parks and gardens (Mead Botanical Garden is a must-visit), and you can easily spend the best part of a day exploring Winter Park.

Although master-planned by Disney and located just a short distance from Walt Disney World, the community of Celebration has a very distinct character. Now completely independent of the company that started it all in 1996, Celebration makes for a fun diversion from the surrounding theme parks and hustle-bustle.

Start your journey by parking as close as you can get to the Town Center district; there's plenty of street parking in and around this commercial hub. Explore the stores here, then grab a tasty treat from Fortuna Bakery & Café or Le Macaron, then score a lakeside seat, kick back, and relax. It's a great place to get in some people-watching, too, as well as spotting the occasional (small!) alligator.

Refreshed, head for the pathways that circle and connect the various neighborhoods in Celebration. There are even a number of interesting boardwalk sections through the marshland. And don't be shy to follow any of the offshoots leading to the luxurious homes that line the lake, too. Definitely time well spent.

Orlando's Exotic Animal Experience offers visitors the chance to have personal encounters with some of the world's most interesting animals. Residents at the park include several species of kangaroos and lemurs, owl monkeys, kinkajou, deer, and two-toed sloths.

All visits are by reservation only, and guests have the choice of a group experience, private visit, and special packages that allow them to spend extra time with the animals. There is also a "Simply Sloths" option for those who want to spend all their time hanging out with the world's most adorable critters.

Location: Quinlan Street, Orlando, Florida

Most first-time visitors to Orlando come to visit the famous theme parks: SeaWorld, Walt Disney World, and Universal Studios, about 10 to 20 miles from the downtown area, traffic depending. A short drive from the theme parks, the popular tourist area around International Drive is home to large outlet malls, water parks such as Wet 'n' Wild, and other tourist attractions. Below are some highly-rated hotels, with swimming pools, in convenient locations for visiting Orlando's top tourist sites and outlet shopping malls:

Luxury Hotels:

• Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort , in a gated community at the namesake theme park, ensconces guests in serene rooms and suites with views of the fireworks and an array of enticing spa services.
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando is another top luxury option, a five-minute complimentary shuttle ride from Walt Disney World. Guests can use the facilities at the more affordable yet still top-notch Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek next door, including a three-acre lazy river pool and waterslide.
• Also close to the Disney theme parks, as well as outlet shopping malls, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is another family-friendly and more affordable luxury option.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A free shuttle whisks you to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure from Drury Inn & Suites , a good value mid-range option.
• Close to Walt Disney World and outlet shopping, Marriott's Cypress Harbour has two-bedroom suites and villas with fully-equipped kitchens that are great for families, while Homewood Suites Orlando/International Drive/Convention Center sits in a convenient location 15 minutes by car from Walt Disney World and only 10 minutes by car from Universal Studios and SeaWorld.

Budget Hotels:

• In a fantastic location, about four minutes by car from Walt Disney World, Hampton Inn Orlando/Lake Buena Vista offers great value with free parking and a complimentary shuttle to the park.
• From the Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Near Universal Orlando Resort, you can take advantage of the free shuttle to Universal Studios or walk to the park in about 15 minutes, and the Comfort Suites near Universal Studios offers large, clean rooms within walking distance of restaurants.
• Multi-Day Universal Park Passes : To get the most flexibility out of your visit to Orlando, residents of the U.S. and Canada can purchase Universal Orlando Tickets that are good for entrance during a seven-day period of your choice. Options include two-, three-, and four-day passes for the two main parks or for all three, including Volcano Bay.
• Helicopter Tour: One of the most unique ways to see Orlando and the surrounding area is from the air. A Helicopter Tour from Walt Disney World Resort Area offers a chance to gain a bird's-eye view of the theme parks and get a true picture of their size and layout.
• Day Trip to Kennedy Space Center: One of the biggest attractions in Florida can be easily visited on the Kennedy Space Center Day Trip with Transport from Orlando . This comprehensive tour allows plenty of time to explore the many exhibits at this large complex and includes IMAX films, a tour of NASA's Launch Headquarters, a private tour of the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, and hotel pickup and drop-off. For a slightly shorter and more economical tour with fewer perks, try the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral Tour .

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Orlando is the sum of its parts, or rather, parks. The Central Florida city isn't called the "theme park capital of the world" for no reason – it's a top U.S. destination for hours of fun, with more than enough attractions and activities for

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Walt Disney World Resort Walt Disney World Resort

U.S. News Insider Tip : When park hopping, park at Hollywood Studios to limit driving from park to park. From there, you can get to Animal Kingdom by bus, EPCOT's World Showcase via the Friendship Boat or Skyliner and Magic Kingdom from the EPCOT monorail. – Johnaé De Felicis

Excessive, exhausting and expensive, Walt Disney World Resort is above all else enchanting. Composed of four theme parks, two water parks, more than two dozen hotels and the Disney Springs complex, this sprawling property features iconic sights and rides like Cinderella Castle, "it's a small world," Spaceship Earth, Toy Story Land and the Tree of Life. Even Anaheim's Disneyland can't compete, according to some.

Universal Orlando Resort Universal Orlando Resort

U.S. News Insider Tip : Leverage single-rider lines to shorten ride wait times. Multiple rides have this option available on most days, including sought-after attractions like the Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Revenge of the Mummy. – Johnaé De Felicis

Whether you're traveling with little ones, teenagers, friends or your significant other, odds are you'll find something to enjoy at Universal Studios Florida. This sprawling entertainment area features two theme parks, as well as the shopping and entertainment area, Universal CityWalk.

I-Drive I-Drive free

The International Drive area is one of Orlando's most diverse regions to visit. Situated less than 10 miles southwest of downtown Orlando, International Drive features a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment venues, including two outlet malls, Ripley's Believe It or Not! and Pirate's Cove Adventure miniature golf course. Eateries here offer all sorts of cuisines or travelers can enjoy a meal while watching a themed show. For night owls, I-Drive boasts a Cuban-inspired Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, a Howl at the Moon dueling pianos venue, a Señor Frog's restaurant and bar, the world's largest permanent ice bar and more.

Though several former visitors caution that I-Drive tends to get clogged with cars, many said everything one could need is located along this road. Plus, prices here aren't quite as high as those found in the adjacent theme parks.

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is an excellent alternative to the city's crowded theme parks. Though it's about 45 miles east of downtown Orlando in Merritt Island, Florida, the space center is worth a visit, especially for those interested in NASA history. Items and exhibits found on-site include the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, NASA's former launch countdown clock, a garden with various rockets, astronaut training simulators and the space shuttle Atlantis. You can also take a tour of the property's facilities, watch space-themed IMAX movies or even have your photo taken with a real astronaut.

Space enthusiasts and families alike will enjoy exploring the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Most former visitors said the site offers tons to see and do, especially if you're looking to kill some time on a rainy day and many recommend spending the whole day there.

Fun Spot America Fun Spot America

Although this amusement park is not as well-known as those found at SeaWorld Orlando , Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort , Fun Spot offers a plethora of rides, including carousels, go-karts, tea cups and Ferris wheels. For thrill-seekers, Fun Spot America features an inverted roller coaster and a wooden roller coaster, the latter being the only one available in the city.

Recent parkgoers say the lines are short, service is excellent and that Fun Spot America is a budget-conscious option for the area. Single-day passes cost $59.95 when purchased online and give visitors access to most rides and the Gatorland-affiliated Gator Spot.

The Mall at Millenia The Mall at Millenia free

Popular brands like Apple and H&M rub elbows with high-end stores like Prada and Versace at the Mall at Millenia. Providing a nice change of pace from the overpriced souvenirs you'd purchase inside one of Orlando's parks, this mall houses approximately 150 stores to browse. It also offers a great way to pass the time on a rainy day.

Several prior shoppers appreciated the Mall at Millenia's assortment of stores, which appeal to an array of budgets. Another plus: the variety of dining options. Everything from grab-and-go eateries in the food court to chain restaurants like P.F. Chang's and The Cheesecake Factory can be found here. There's even a Capital Grille to satisfy shoppers looking to treat themselves to a formal meal.

Harry P. Leu Gardens Harry P. Leu Gardens

Swing by Harry P. Leu Gardens and get a sense of the real Orlando (it's not all thrill rides and character meet-and-greets). This botanical oasis – which sits 4 miles northeast of the city center – offers 50 acres of plants like camellias, roses and azaleas. Plus, there are horticulture classes, permanent and rotating art exhibits and a restored 19th-century home.

Recent visitors said this is a nice change of pace from park-palooza, even when it's not peak bloom season. According to many, the Butterfly Garden is a must-see, especially if you have kids with you. Many visitors remarked on the garden's permanent and visiting exhibits, which added another enjoyable element to the peaceful property.

Orlando Science Center Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a place to experiment and learn about all things science. A brief distance from the Harry P. Leu Gardens (about a mile), it's a must-see if you're a science and technology buff.

On-site exhibits include Fusion: A STEAM Gallery, a dinosaur exhibit that uncovers the history of the prehistoric world and Our Planet, Our Solar System. There's also a new nature and conservation exhibit opening in spring 2024, called LIFE. You can even watch educational films and programs at the Digital Adventure Theater or the large, domed screen at Dr. Phillips CineDome.

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Discovery Cove Discovery Cove

There are animal encounters and then there's Discovery Cove – a companion site to SeaWorld Orlando where you can get up-close with dolphins, stingrays, marmosets and otters. And since it's a reservation-only park (the park only admits up to 1,300 guests per day), you'll get to interact with the animals and trainers more intimately. Try snorkeling with tropical fish and rays in the park's coral reef or floating throughout the park's lush landscape on the Wind-Away River. If you need a break from the water, dry off on one of the beaches or feed some of the birds in Discovery Cove's Explorer's Aviary. All of these activities are included with your admission as is the use of snorkeling gear, wet suits and lockers. Unlimited food and drinks (including alcoholic libations) are included as well. Keep in mind that while meeting and swimming with dolphins is a main draw here, the experience isn't included in the base ticket.

According to recent visitors, it's this plethora of diverse attractions that make Discovery Cove such a memorable Orlando experience and many also comment on how relaxing the park is to visit. However, a few note issues with customer service and express concerns about animal care.

Orlando International Premium Outlets Orlando International Premium Outlets free

If you enjoy shopping, then no visit to Orlando would be complete without perusing the city's outlet malls. One of the best is Orlando International Premium Outlets. This outlet mall – which is the largest in Florida – houses everything from standard stores (think: Bath & Body Works, Claire's and J. Crew Factory) to high-end retailers like Armani and Coach. And when you need to quench your thirst or satisfy your hunger, a coffeehouse and multiple cafes and snack shops are available.

Shopaholics rave about the retail options (and discounts) offered at Orlando International Premium Outlets. But remember, this shopping mecca is an open-air facility, so it's best avoided on rainy days. Also, parking is notoriously limited here, so consider taking a taxi or riding the bus or I-RIDE Trolley's Red Line to the property.

ICON Park ICON Park

It might not be Disney World , Universal Studios or SeaWorld , but ICON Park just adds to the list of places to eat, drink and be merry in Orlando. It's a popular go-to for family outings and date nights, offering indoor and outdoor fun for all ages, with more than 50 attractions, shops and restaurants with varying cuisines.

The main attraction is the Wheel at ICON Park—a 400-foot Ferris wheel offering stunning views of Orlando. Also on-site is a Madame Tussauds wax museum and a Museum of Illusions outpost. The Sea Life Orlando Aquarium features sea creatures from around the world. And if you're looking for a thrill, take your pick from the 7D Motion Theater, the 8,000-square-foot Max Action Arena or the Great Florida Road Trip Camera Game—a gaming and educational experience on the Wheel that walks you through the history of mid-century Florida. Gamers can also find plenty of fun at the on-site In the Game arcade.

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

If you're in the mood to dwell in nature and explore some of the world's most fascinating creatures, consider spending a day at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The 116-acre zoo houses more than 350 animals and an array of family-friendly attractions. Adventurers can see more than 100 of the planet's species, from grazing giraffes to slithering snakes. Head to Seminole Aerial Adventures for exhilarating thrills, complete with rope bridges, zip lines, swings and more.

Keep your kiddos entertained with a miniature train ride and an animal encounter at the Barnyard Buddies Children's Zoo, where they can meet a llama, pygmy goats and other small animals. To beat the heat, cool off at the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground. Themed botanical gardens are scattered across the property; you may spot a few garden dwellers like hummingbirds and butterflies (especially at the enchanting Butterfly Garden). When you get hungry, stop by Graze Kitchen for burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches. Or, stop by Swirl for ice cream, churros or popcorn.

Orlando Golf Courses Orlando Golf Courses

If you're not coming to Orlando to explore its theme parks, chances are you've come to visit its links. More than 170 golf courses – many of which have ties to area resorts – can be found throughout Orlando and its suburbs. Walt Disney World Resort offers four courses, while guests who stay at accommodations located on Universal Orlando Resort  grounds receive golf privileges at select fairways.

According to prior visitors, some of Orlando's best greens include the Evermore Orlando Resort (formerly the Villas of Grand Cypress Orlando), the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Orlando—Grande Lakes and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando , thanks in part to each property's beautiful surroundings and friendly staff. Another favorite: Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge's Champion, Challenger and Charger links. A few previous visitors of Disney's Magnolia Golf Course expressed that the courses are decently challenging and appreciated the friendly staff.

Kennedy Space Center Adventure with Transport from Orlando

(995 reviews)

from $ 85.00

Kennedy Space Center Cape Canaveral Admission

(38 reviews)

from $ 69.81

Manatee Adventure, Airboat, Lunch, Wildlife Park with Transport

(1428 reviews)

from $ 150.00

Lake Eola Park Lake Eola Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip : If you're planning a swan boat outing, you can save up to 40% on boat rental costs by purchasing it through Groupon. On-site, tickets cost $15 per 30-minute rental. – Johnaé De Felicis

Head to Lake Eola Park for a scenic stroll in the heart of downtown Orlando, complete with stunning views of the water, pretty foliage and the Orlando skyline. Its 0.9-mile walking path circles the park's pristine, blue lake, making it the perfect destination for a walk or run (if you haven't exhausted yourself at the theme parks). If your kids need to blow off some steam, take them to the playground.

SeaWorld Orlando SeaWorld Orlando

While Mickey's house and Harry's wizarding world are certainly magical, many vacationers find Shamu's lair equally enchanting. At SeaWorld Orlando, take your pick of rides (including Orlando's tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster, Mako) and an array of shows and exhibits. Others include the Dolphin Adventures show and Sea Lion and Otter Spotlight presentation.

Travelers love SeaWorld's animal experiences, heart-pounding rides and relaxed atmosphere, but some caution that food and merchandise are pricey and lines can be long thanks to massive crowds. Meanwhile, others warned that the park is better suited to older kids as most of the rides do not allow young children. A few travelers also noted issues with customer service.

Crayola Experience Crayola Experience

Have a colorful day at the Crayola Experience, located at the Florida Mall in Orlando. This 70,000-square-foot fun house is reportedly larger than an NFL football field. It's also home to the world's largest Crayola crayon (Bluetiful), weighing 1,352 pounds and measuring 15.6 feet.

Visitors who don't mind getting their hands dirty can create fun and simple craft projects at the Activity Studio. Wrap It Up! provides a space to name, personalize and wrap your own crayon. For little ones, the Crayola Experience features multiple play areas—from Toddler Town to the Color Playground. They can also test their footwork with the interactive Crayola game, Stomp! Skip! Play! There's a packed schedule of ongoing and seasonal live events here as well, like Sensory Sunday and Colorful Christmas. The Crayon Factory Show is particularly neat, showing guests how crayons are made.

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15 Best Things to Do in Orlando

By Paul Oswell

Entertainment looms large in Orlando, and thanks to its globally famous and universally loved theme parks, it's a world leader in welcoming families. Millions of people pass through the various Disney and Universal parks every year, often on their very own trip of a lifetime. Beyond the parks, though, there's a wealth of cultural and educational experiences to be had. Space ages past and present come alive at EPCOT and the Kennedy Space Center, and there's a call to nature at Gatorland and the Disney Wilderness Preserve. Downtown Orlando is often overlooked, but make time for Church Street and the Milk District, not to mention the upscale options at Winter Park. Wondering how much you were missing? Read on for our guide of what to do in Orlando and find out.

Church Street District Arrow

Downtown Orlando is a much-overlooked location, especially given the worldwide fame of its surrounding attractions. The neighborhood dates back to the 19th-century, and some of the period aesthetic remains in the form of wrought-iron balconies and bridges and cobbled streets. You won’t find huge malls; rather, smaller boutiques and independent stores and restaurants that offer an interesting alternative to the chains and global brands dominating most of the city.

Bok Tower Gardens Arrow

Quiet green spaces aren’t the first thing that spring to mind when one thinks of Orlando, but thanks to author and journalist Edward E. Bok, the city has at least one park where quiet contemplation and tranquility reign. Bok Tower Gardens consists of 250 acres of beautifully kept parkland that contains it own nature trail and bird sanctuary. It’s a welcome retreat from the clamor of the theme parks and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Orlando Science Center Arrow

A hands-on, science-focused museum of sorts has existed here in some form since the mid 1980s, but its modern incarnation opened in 1997. Today the Orlando Science Center is is a huge white building with glass and steel walkways. Across its four floors are eight themed exhibitions that cover a wealth of scientific subjects. The natural world is an especially strong theme, given the importance of the environment in Florida, but there are also dinosaurs and planetary exhibits that will transport minds of all ages to different times and worlds.

Gatorland Arrow

What began as a working farm in the 1950s has since grown into Gatorland, a wildlife attraction in its own right. Unlike the technologically focused parks of most of Orlando, this one has a more rustic, old-fashioned feel, but that doesn’t mean it has any less charisma. It’s now a zoo and sanctuary where you can see alligators up close, whether from the rickety wooden walkways or in a show, from tiny babies to huge adults laying out in the sun or slithering around the swamps and pools that comprise much of the parkland.

Jessica Puckett

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Legoland Florida Resort Arrow

Legoland Florida Resort is the largest of all Legoland theme parks. Beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Eloise, the complex offers a huge array of things to do, with exciting rides, chances to build with Lego bricks, Lego reproductions of cities and landmarks, live shows, and a water park. It’s a playful, hands-on atmosphere that has broad appeal for kids and adults alike.

The Milk District Arrow

The Milk District, built up around the TG Lee milk factory that dates back to the 1920s, has been an up-and-coming neighborhood in downtown Orlando since 2008. Over the course of a decade, businesses moved in and events cropped up. Now the area supports a community of stores, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. There’s a funky, DIY feel to the place, with food trucks, colorful street art, and stores, many converted from the industrial buildings that preceded them.

Icon Park Arrow

ICON Orlando, an entertainment complex, centers around a 400-foot observation wheel—the largest of its kind on the East Coast. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding region; it’s also one of the few places around that lets you ascend that high without also traveling upside down at 50 miles an hour on a coaster. Among the other main attractions are the underwater sights of Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, the celebrity lookalikes of Madame Tussaud’s Orlando, the 450-feet high swings of the Orlando Star Flyer, and the fascinating skeletons of the Museum of Osteology.

Kennedy Space Center Arrow

The Kennedy Space Center was most famously the launch pad for the Apollo 11 mission to the moon in 1969. Today the complex welcomes around 1.5 million visitors a year, and encompasses more than 130 square miles. One of the main draws here is the actual space shuttle, the Atlantis orbiter, which goes hand-in-hand with the Shuttle Launch Experience, an immersive simulator. It’s a comprehensive space experience, with real-life artifacts and spacecraft mixed in with impressive multimedia presentations.

Orlando Museum of Art Arrow

The idea of the Orlando Museum of Art dates back to 1924, but the modern-day facility, with its large, white, rotund exterior, was completed in 1997. The museum presents 10 or 12 onsite exhibitions at a time, and is home to one of the best collections of fine art in Florida. The collection here, which includes 2,400 objects, focuses on American art from the 18th century to the present day and international contemporary art. Paintings and photography are presented alongside textiles, pottery, and mixed media.

Disney Wilderness Preserve Arrow

Part of the price that Disney had to pay to develop so much land was to preserve some of it, and the Disney Wilderness Preserve, a nature conserve, opened to the public in 1992. The park contains around 12,000 acres of lakes and swampland that's home to a diverse selection of animals and plantlife. Interpretive trails wind around the grounds, which feel worlds removed from the clamor of theme parks—like a little a corner of tranquility and natural wonder.

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Epcot is actually an acronym and stands for the "Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow." Originally intended to be a utopian version of the future, the park has developed into an educational center and a permanent version of the World’s Fair exhibition. The park's two halves encompass 250 acres; Future World is all about education and entertainment, while World Showcase pays tribute to international cultures. Parents will gain a well-rounded outing and kids will enjoy the interactive nature of the exhibits and, of course, the rides.

Universal Studios Florida Arrow

Once a single park, this facility eventually become two parks and an entertainment complex; Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk are both stand-alone attractions in their own right. Universal Studios itself is a mix of high-octane rides and meticulously rendered movie sets that immerse park guests. It’s a relatively adult-friendly atmosphere, especially compared to the other major parks, but that’s not to say there aren’t plenty of things for kids. The park is also a working movie production studio.

Universal's Islands of Adventure Arrow

As Universal Studios grew, its sister theme park, Universal's Islands of Adventures, came into being. Today, it's a world-class theme park all its own, one with some of the most technologically advanced attractions you'll find anywhere in the world. The "islands" break down into Jurassic Park , The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , Marvel Super Hero, and Seuss Landing. This park is very much focused on rides rather than elaborate shows, making it slightly more appealing to older children and adults.

Disney's Hollywood Studios Arrow

For nearly 20 years, Disney's Hollywood Studios functioned as a working movie and TV production facility. That stopped in 2004, but today it remains a must-see park themed around Disney films. The attractions are a mix of rides and shows, and there’s also a fair amount of interactive, educational experiences. The most popular ride is the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror , arguably Orlando’s scariest ride, set in what looks like an abandoned hotel. The high-speed Rock 'n' Roller Coaster is also a crowd favorite.

Magic Kingdom Park Arrow

This world-famous theme park is the quintessential Disney experience, with an army of cartoon characters and 107 acres of rides and attractions that at once create a sense of nostalgia and a vision of the future. Seven "lands" evoke individual eras and themes, from the Wild West to jungle to space, all complimented by rollercoasters, parades, street performers, and the most popular Disney characters brought to life.

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It’s true: Orlando is a magical place. Every day here, no one is too old, or too young, to wear Mickey ears or wave a wand and cackle in delight. For family fun, there are theme parks that tap into your love affairs with comic-book heroes and galaxies far, far away, and leave you screaming at every free fall and splashdown. I-Drive is 11 miles of sensory overload such as The Orlando Eye at ICON Park and WonderWorks . Disney Springs combines shopping, food, attractions, and live entertainment. A short ride from the bright lights are outdoors adventures such as 72-degree springs and airboat rides in the headwaters of the Everglades. Plan your trip to Orlando:

THEME PARKS

Florida is epicenter of the world for theme parks. Orlando is the capital.

• Walt Disney World Resort
• Universal Orlando Resort
• SeaWorld Orlando
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort

MORE FAMILY FUN

Indoors and outdoors, in the air and underwater, the family activities will stimulate the senses and expand the mind.

• Water Parks
• Free Things to Do

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

You can be a participant: swimming, paddling, golfing, hiking, cycling, and fishing. You can be a spectator: championship golf tournaments, and professional basketball and soccer.

From Orlando's outlet malls to Winter Park's Main Street to Disney Springs and Celebration, there is a smorgasbord of shopping tastes: elite brands, neighborhood-vibe boutiques, and welcome discounts

• Local Retail

In one of the world's entertainment capitals, it makes sense that there are a proportional variety of cuisines and number of award-winning culinary experiences.

• Restaurants
• Breweries  
• Michelin: Best Japanese Restuarants
• Michelin: Best Brunches

PLACES TO STAY

You can stay in a resort on the campus of an attraction -- with a water park for a swimming pool. You can bring the extended family to a vacation home. Imagine it. You can have it.

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SEE THE CITY

Remember these names, Milk District, Mills 50, Thornton Park, SoDo, Audubon Park, and Ivanhoe Village.

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Orlando is 85 miles northeast of Tampa, Florida and one hour from Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic Ocean.

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40 Unforgettable Things to Do in Orlando, Florida

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Many people plan a trip to Orlando to visit its world-famous theme parks, but there are many things to do in Orlando to complement a Disney vacation. Orlando has been our family’s go-to destination for decades. We Canadians can’t get enough of this central Florida city’s sunshine and theme parks, and trust me, we’ve done it all. From shopping at flea markets to exploring International Drive, Orlando is a fantastic all-round vacation destination for the whole family.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Orlando, Florida

It’s no secret that Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. The city is a complete entertainment destination for families and couples with attractions galor. From museums to outdoor adventures, Orlando has a surprising number of things to do outside the usual theme parks. However, they are pretty great, too! So let’s go on a tour of all the things to do in Orlando.

1. Walt Disney World Resort

We won’t spend too long on Orlando’s theme parks since we all know about most of them, but let’s break down what you can see and do at each of them, starting with Walt Disney World Resort. It was this resort that made Orlando famous and when you visit Orlando, you must stop here at least once in your life.

Walt Disney World Resort is the ultimate family escape, encompassing four theme parks and two water parks. You could visit Orlando repeatedly and still not see all of Disney World. Walt Disney World Resort is constantly changing and adding to it to keep people coming back again and again. Let’s break all the theme parks down.

2. Magic Kingdom

The original Magic Kingdom is the classic Disney theme park built around the fairytale castle (modeled after Neuschwanstein Castle  in Germany). It’s here that kids love seeing Mickey Mouse, the Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean, while parents love the thrill of Space Mountain. It’s a classic theme park and one of the top things to do in Orlando for first-time visitors. Read more Top 10 Roller Coasters in Florida .

TRON Lightcycle Run is the newest attraction at Magic Kingdom Park. Based on the Disney sci-fi film TRON. Ride one of the fastest coasters of all the Disney theme parks while traveling through The Grid on your very own Lightcycle.

Note: A virtual queue is in place for TRON Lightcycle / Run. Guests must use the My Disney Experience app t o enter this attraction.

3. Epcot Center

Epcot Center takes you worldwide without needing to travel with the World Showcase featuring 11 countries where you can immerse in their culture. Go Soarin’ Around the World in the IMAX simulator, create your own concept car to take a spin along the test track, or check out the classic Epcot attraction that takes you on a journey through time. The all-ages attraction will allow guests to explore and engage with water as it travels from the skies to the oceans and back again. 

4. Disney’s Hollywood Studios

We always love going to film studios, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios has transformed from its original MGM studio tour to a Hollywood setting, taking you through worlds from the movies. Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge lets you experience everything Star Wars. Go through 3D motion simulators to build your own droid. Kids will love the Toy Story and Pixar themes, too.

6. Typhoon Lagoon

While Orlando doesn’t have beaches, it has plenty of water parks. And if you are a water lover, Disney has a water park! Typhoon Lagoon has water slides and surf pools, beaches and lazy rivers.

So even if you don’t make it to Daytona or Miami Beach , you can still have a beach holiday. But Daytona Beach does make a great trip for Orlando, we have stayed in Daytona and made day trips to Orlando in the past, read more: Best Things to do in Daytona Beach, Florida

7. Disney’s Blizzard Beach Waterpark

The second of Disney’s water parks is Blizzard Beach. This 66-acre water park is a great place to chill out. The theme of this park is a ski resort melted into warm and inviting waters. Since it takes place in a ski resort, many downhill slopes and slides can be enjoyed. There are winter themes such as the snow castle fountain, Tikes Peak, Toboggan Racers, and the Downhill Double Dipper.

If you are feeling fearless, you can tackle Mount Gushmore, one of the world’s fastest and tallest waterslides. There’s also a lazy river and white sandy beaches to remind you that you enjoy fun in the sun. Read 18 Best Beaches in Florida for Fun in the Sun

8. Disney Springs

Disney Springs is also located at Walt Disney World Resort. This expansive outdoor complex has four distinct areas: Marketplace, The Landing, Town Center, and West Side. It combines shopping, dining, and entertainment in one easily accessible location. Shoppers can explore various stores, from big-name brands to unique Disney-themed merchandise at the Marketplace.

One of the coolest things to do in there is to take a hot air balloon ride over Disney Springs. This exhilarating adventure elevates visitors high above the bustling streets, providing panoramic views of Disney Springs and the surrounding area. The tranquil ascent in the early morning or late evening hours captures the essence of Orlando’s scenic beauty, with the iconic Disney landmarks visible from a bird’s eye view.

For entertainment, Disney Springs offers live music, street performers, and a state-of-the-art movie theater. There are plenty of dining options available at The Landing, featuring everything from quick bites to fine dining experiences.

What’s awesome is that Disney Springs has free admission, and is open year-round, making it a convenient and budget-friendly addition to any Orlando trip. You get the feel of being at Disney without the hefty ticket prices.

Where to Stay at Disney

You can book hotels directly at Walt Disney World Resort and we highly recommend this to make the most of your stay. Check out these hotels located directly within Walt Disney World Resort.

• Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort – Four Seasons are our favorite hotel chain with the highest of standards. This AAA Five Diamond Resort is a luxury retreat. Prices and reviews on TripAdvisor
• Disney Port Orleans Resort French Quarter – Be transported to New Orleans, complete with Jazz musicians, wrought iron balconies and cobblestone streets.
• The Grove Resort Orlando – Located outside the park, it’s just a short drive to the resort and it has its own waterpark.

9. Universal Orlando Resort

The next on our list of top things to do in Orlando is to make your way to Universal Orlando Resort. It is definitely giving Walt Disney World Resort a run for its money with seven island parks on Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, four hotels and a water park. Universal has some major thrill rides with fast rollercoasters and fun virtual reality rides. Check out: The Best All Inclusive Resorts in Florida

10. Universal Studios Florida

Movie buffs will love Universal Studios Florida with rides inspired by film and TV. There are plenty of 3D rides that will make your stomach jump. From the Shrek 4D and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (which I totally go sick on) to The Simpsons Ride, you’ll be immersed in animation. If you want roller coasters, this is the place to go with the 70 mph Jurassic World Velocicoaster to the more relaxing 40 mph Revenge of the Mummy.

Get your 3 Park Ticket that give access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme parks. Hassle-free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.

11. Harry Potter and Diagon Alley

Universal is a mix of theme park and working studio and you can also check out Harry Potter’s escape from Gringott’s bank. Harry Potter is so popular he crosses over two theme parks!

We were lucky enough to visit the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Diagon Alley. Even as adults, we loved this. It helps that I am a Harry Potter fan!

What we love about Universal is that its rides are geared to adults with some extreme roller coasters, and simulators. In fact, I was so nauseous after one ride I had to take a few rides off as Dave went on some of roller coasters without me.

12. Universal Islands of Adventure

Besides The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Hogsmeade, Universal Islands of Adventure has seven other themed sections. Marvel Super Hero Island, The Lost Continent, Port of Entry, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, Skull Island, and Seuss Landing are all places you can explore. Each of the island parks all has rides geared toward the perspective movie genres.

13. Minion Land

Minion Land opened at Universal Studios, featuring the beloved Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction, a new Minion café and more.

Check out The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash and head over Despicable Me Minion Mayhem to see your favorite characters.

Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast combines innovative screen technology, state-of-the-art gaming interactivity, and elaborate physical sets to create a one-of-a-kind, game-based adventure where guests encounter immersive environments, nefarious villains, and tons of mischievous Minions from Illumination’s blockbuster film franchise.  

14. Universal CityWalk

You don’t even have to necessarily go into the park to enjoy Universal Resort, City Walk has some fun attractions outside the gate. Play a round of mini golf, catch a movie or grab a bite. It’s a fun place to take a stroll and feel the energy.

If you are looking for something unique to do, Universal’s Great Movie Escape at Universal CityWalk is the first-ever escape room experience that features two rooms with interactive state-of-the-art missions. It’s intricately detailed sets were inspired by Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s blockbuster films Jurassic World and Back to the Future.  

Where to Stay at Univeral Orlando Resort

Where to Stay at Universal Resort

• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – The fun retro-designed resort feels like you’ve stepped back in time to a 1960s beach club.
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort -Surfside Inn and Suites – Get a surfer Dude vibe as you stay at this family oriented value hotel
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – Be transported to the Italian Riviera in this luxury resort that feels like a little slice of paradise.

15. International Drive (I-Drive)

International Drive (aka I-Drive) is one of the must-visit places in Orlando. International Drive has a midway feel with indoor go-carting, indoor skydiving, arcade games, and mini golf. This resort area has many attractions, restaurants, entertainment, and shopping. It is home to the Orange County Convention Center, so there are plenty of hotels making it a more reasonable place to stay than one of the theme parks in Orlando.

Where to Stay at International Drive – We stayed at Wyndham Orlando Resort, and it was fantastic. It was within walking distance to some of the best attractions on International Drive and nearby restaurants and the movie theater. Yet it was far enough away from it all, giving an upscale quiet retreat. Check it out on TripAdvisor

The area has many hotels, making it easy to explore International Drive from your resort. Let’s check out a few of I-Drive’s top sites.

16. Fun Spot America

Looking for an amusement park outside Universal and Disney? Fun Spot America is located at International Drive and is fun for the whole family with go-kart tracks, Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster, kids’ rides, and a splash park. Get your tickets in advance, including free parking and water park admission.

Unlike our other Orlando theme parks, Fun Spot does not charge for non-riders – which is perfect for parents of older children. Instead, parents can watch their children enjoy the rides for free and stay safely on the ground.

17. The Wheel at Icon Park

The Wheel at Icon Park is a 400-foot-high observation wheel that takes 23 minutes to do a full rotation. This is one of the more popular things to do in Orlando at night. Make sure to stop at the Sky Bar to pick up some bubbly or beer for your ride. The pods are air-conditioned and hold up to 15 people.

You can get your tickets in advance – Enjoy the city views from the pod with this flexible ticket that lets you visit when it suits your schedule. You can upgrade to include dining experiences or activities such as tickets to the Starflyer, Madame Tussauds Orlando, or SEA LIFE Orlando.(easy cancellation for full refund within 24 hours of ticket entry)

18. WonderWorks

WonderWorks is a fun interactive science center with attractions like the Space Discovery Zone, Extreme Weather Zone, The Physical Challenge Zone, and the Imagination Lab. It is an indoor amusement park for the mind! It has 100 interactive exhibits from the indoor ropes challenge

19. Escape Game

Escape Game on International Drive was rated the #1 Escape Room in Orlando if you love escape rooms. It has 7 Orlando escape rooms for all skill levels, including a prison break, the heist, Gold Rush, and Mission to Mars. There is free parking, and you can combine it with other International Drive attractions, followed by dinner or a ride on The Wheel at ICON Park.

20. I-Ride Trolley

The I-Ride Trolley is a great way to get around International Drive. A single fare is $2 per ride, but it is best to get a day pass. Day passes range from one day for $5 unlimited rides to 3,5,7 and 14-day passes. See the I-Ride Trolley for Details.

21. Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds Wax Museums have endured the decades. There’s something that attracts people to famous wax figures when on vacation and Orlando has filled that requirement by having its own Madame Tussauds. If you are into that, check it out.

For more Florida travel information, you may want to check out these articles.

• 27 of the Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida
• 10 Unique Things to Do in Central Florida
• Best Things to do in Daytona Beach, Florida
• Top 10 Roller Coasters in Florida

22. Church Street

Most people don’t think of spending time downtown Orlando on their Florida vacations, but there are plenty of things to see and do. Church Street is the heart of downtown with the best restaurants and nightlife. Make your way to the East End Market to see art, food and fruit and vegetables from all around Central Florida or enjoy the bistros and cafes of Thornton Park. Downtown Orlando is also home to the Amway Sports Arena that is home to the NBA Basketball Team, the Orlando Magic.

23. Fringe ArtSpace

The newest attraction in downtown Orlando is the Orlando Fringe at Fringe ArtSpace. The 9100 square foot space is a year round performing arts venue with two theatre spaces. A main stage and the smaller black box venue. Make sure to check it out to see its programs of concerts and theatres plus pop up events and workshops.

24. Amway Center

If you are a basketball fan, head over to the Amway Center and pick up some tickets to see the Orlando Magic, Orlando’s NBA team. Winners of six division championships, this is one popular team! If you can’t get tickets to a game, check out a concert at the arena, there are regular events, and performances and the hockey team Orlando Solar Bears call the Amway Center home as well.

25. Lake Eola Park

Located in the heart of downtown, Lake Eola is nearly a mile of waterfront sidewalks circling a picturesque lake. The Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain, aka Centennial Fountain, is the official symbol of Orlando. This serene park is a popular place for concerts and dining. You can rent paddleboards in the park as well.

26. Orlando Science Center

Nearly every major city in the world has a science center and Orlando is no exception. These interactive museums are a great way to spark interest in science and technology for the little ones and to escape the heat. ona hot Florida day. Everybody loves the Kinetic Zone offering an introduction to physics or going back millions of years to the age of the dinosaurs. It has it all. Science is cool man.

27. Orlando Museum of Art

Just because you are visiting the theme park capital of the world doesn’t mean you don’t require a bit of culture. The Orlando Museum of Art is a modern art museum housing everything from local artists to French classic artists like Cézanne and Gauguin.

28. Titanic Artifact Museum

For Titanic Lovers, the Artifact Exhibition in Orlando houses nearly 200 artifacts from the Titanic recovered by RMS Titanic Inc. We are always fascinated with Titanic exhibitions. We’ve been to the Titanic Museum in Belfast where the Titanic left from its port and in Halifax where the major rescue and recovery took place at the time of its sinking off the coast.

Get your tickets in advance to Titanic Artifact Museum – See artifacts recovered from the Titanic and immerse in the experience through full-scale recreations of her Grand Staircase, First Class Cabin and more while actors in period costumes portray Titanic notables.

29. Morse Museum of American Art

See the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany, an American Art Nouveau artist, and designer who was the son of the founder of Tiffany and Company. He is most famous for working with glass designing lamps, stained glass windows and mosaics. He was also the first design director of Tiffany & Co.

This museum showcases his glass works including a chapel interior that was on display at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago .

30. Harry P Leu Botanical Gardens

Another tropical oasis just minutes from downtown Orlando is the Harry P Leu Gardens. This 50 acre park is a great escape if you are looking for something different to do in Orlando. There’s a butterfly garden, a tropical rainforest and a variety of exotic plants from around the world.

Things to do Near Orlando

My parents spend their winters in Winter Haven. Located 1 hour south of Orlando, it is a popular Snowbird destination and there are quite a few things to do here to add to your Orlando itinerary. My dad made a point of telling me that if I ever wrote about things to do in Orlando, I must include these other Central Florida attractions. So let’s check them out.

31. Kennedy Space Center

With Elon Musk and Richard Branson starting up the space race again, interest in space travel is at an all time high. The Kennedy Space Center has been attracting visitors to Cape Canaveral for decades. Check out the astronaut training center and the Apollo / Saturn V race to the moon. There are plenty of interactive displays and old rockets and space craft on hand.

Pick up your skip the line tickets to the Kennedy Space Center for access to many exhibits including, Space Shuttle Atlantis, Shuttle Launch Experience, Rocket Garden, and IMAX Spacefilms. This Kennedy Space Center Day Trip includes transportation from Orlando, Kissimee, Disney and Lake Buena Vista areas and with access to Kennedy Space Centre attractions and a visit to restricted areas.

32. Old Town Kissimmee

Step back in time and visit the Old Town of Kissimee. This town is modelled after a classic Florida town filled with restaurants, shops and tree lined streets resembling a bygone era. Make sure you visit on a Saturday night for the Saturday Nite Classic Car Cruise and take a ride on the Old Town’s iconic Ferris Wheel.

33. Tree Trek Adventure Park

If you are looking for an adventure, the Tree Trek Adventure Park is fun for the whole family. Experience arial challenges above the forest canopy and a giant 425 foot long zip line. There are courses for all levels including 2 kids courses and adult courses ranging in height and difficulty. Tackle the silver obstacle course for the ultimate challenge.

Tree Trek Adventure Park is located at 7625 Sinclair Rd in Kissimmee, Florida 34747

34. Winter Park

When touring around during a visit with my parents, we stopped in Winter Park and my first thought was “mom and dad should buy a place here!” This Orange County city is filled with parks and its main street Park Avenue has plenty of shopping and dining. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is one of Orlando’s top attractions taking visitors through seven lakes and two canals.

Winter Park has an upscale feeling that is completely different from the Disney and Universal attractions. It is a way to experience Orlando like a local with upscale dining, fine art museums and  2,781 acres of pristine waterways.

35. Bok Tower Gardens

This beautiful day trip from the city is located between Tampa and Orlando. Birders love Bok Tower Gardens with its 126 different species of birds, making it a designated stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. There are 50 acres of gardens, including a children’s garden around the neo-Gothic Singing Tower carillon. There are only 600 carillons in the world! Professional Carillonneurs play this bell tower. It’s worth visiting for this alone!

36. Legoland

Legoland has come a long way baby and Legoland Florida is a combination theme park and waterpark in one. This is definitely a park for the whole family. A very cool fact is that Legoland is on the site of the former Cypress Gardens which was famous for its water shows since 1939. While Cypress Gardens is officially closed, it lives on in Legoland’s Botanical Gardens where the giant Cypress tree still stands.

Leggoland’s newest attraction is opening soon. Pirate River Quest is a treasure hunt adventure that sees guests follow a pirate in search of treasure through the waters of Cypress Gardens to explore its canals.

37. Florida Everglades Tours

Exploring the Florida Everglades is a thrilling day trip from Orlando, just three hours away. This vast, natural wetland is a top attraction for visitors seeking an adventure beyond the city’s theme parks. Book this Everglades tour to see alligators, birds and the scenery as you skim through the high grass of the Everglades.

Tours of the Everglades are highly popular and highly likely to sell out offering an up-close look at this unique ecosystem through airboat rides, which glide over the marshes, providing an opportunity to spot alligators, exotic birds, and native flora.

Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the area’s rich biodiversity and to learn about the Everglades’ ecological importance. Besides airboat rides, visitors can engage in hiking, bird watching, and photography, immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature. This excursion adds a refreshing contrast to the usual Orlando itinerary, making it a must-do for those wanting to experience Florida’s wild side.

38. Blue Spring State Park

Located 45 minutes outside of Orlando in Orange City, Blue Spring State Park is not to be missed. It is the premier place to view manatees as they make their way up the St. Johns River during the winter months to avoid the cold ocean waters. The natural springs remain a balmey 72 degrees throughout the winter. Take a walk along the 1.3-mile boardwalk to see manatees swimming. You can also get in the water at Blue Spring State Park and do some swimming, paddle boarding and river tubing in designated areas.

39. Manatee Day Trip

One of the best ways to get up close and personal with Manatees is to take a tour in the Great Outdoors. If the Manatees aren’t in Blue Spring State Park (since they are only there seasonally) you can go to Homosassa State Park to see the Manatees of Crystal River. It also includes a 30 Minute airboat ride on the Withlacoochee River.

Visiting animals in their natural habitat is our preferred way of experiencing wildlife. We suggest airboat tours, kayaking tours or snorkeling tours over places such as the Central Florida Zoo, SeaWorld or Gatorland.

40. Animal Welfare

We are not fans of zoos and don’t think that animals should be put on display for people’s entertainment. We prefer visiting sanctuaries and seeing animals in their natural habitat. However, we wanted to include these animal attractions as other Orlando guides mention them and we want to give our opinion so that you can make up your own minds.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom – When it comes to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, we’d rather see lions on the African savanna rather than in a theme park. I know not everyone can do this, but there are amazing virtual reality and documentaries out there. But at least Disney gives animals plenty of room to roam. Disney says that it celebrates the earth’s animals plus a few from Avatar’s Pandora. We personally, haven’t been to Animal Kingdom and prefer to enjoy animal encounters in the wild.

Seaworld Orlando – We never recommend a visit to Seaworld Orlando. While they claim to do a lot of conservation and rescues, they put marine life on display for human entertainment and this is not right. It causes stress on marine life to have to perform and interact with strangers. I wish Seaworld would change.

SEA Life Orlando Aquarium

If you want to visit an aquarium, SEA Life Orlando Aquarium is the best option. Unlike traditional marine parks like SeaWorld, SEA Life places a strong emphasis on education and conservation.

The aquarium is renowned for its efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating injured marine animals, along with its initiatives to protect ocean habitats. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that showcase a wide range of marine species, from colorful fish to majestic sea turtles, in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Interactive experiences, such as the 360-degree ocean tunnel, offer an immersive way to learn about marine ecosystems and the importance of preserving them.

Does Orlando have Beaches?

While Orlando itself is not home to beaches, it’s ideally positioned within driving distance of some of Florida’s most picturesque coastlines. To escape the Florida heat, a day at the beach is just the ticket. Just an hour’s drive east, visitors can reach the Atlantic shores of Cocoa Beach, famous for its surf-friendly waves and family-friendly atmosphere. A two-hour journey west leads to the Gulf Coast’s Clearwater Beach.

And these are just some of the fantastic attractions in Orlando. After visiting again and again, we always find something new. Florida has catered to tourists down to a science and the people in charge are forever thinking of new ways to entice visitors to the State. And a great place to start is Orlando!

Orlando is a fantastic vacation destination for the whole family. With world-class entertainment, excellent location for day trips, and endless Orlando activities, it’s the perfect destination to visit Central Florida’s top attractions. Or you never need to leave the city, the possibilities are endless.

Check out more Florida articles and things to do

• Key West: Miami to Key West Drive – Best Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary
• Daytona: 20 Best Things to Do in Daytona Beach, Florida
• The Best Places to Visit in Florida
• Our Favorite Fun Facts About Florida
• Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary
• 30 Fun Things to do in Miami, Florida
• Florida Keys: Things to do in Islamorada Florida Keys

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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The Ultimate Orlando Bucket List – 101 Things to Do in Orlando Florida

• Florida / In the City / North America / Orlando / USA

Visiting Orlando? Put these things on your bucket list!

Growing up in Atlanta, we used to visit Orlando every year during our school breaks. We went often enough that our parents eventually purchased a timeshare there. Visiting now brings back a lot of nostalgic memories, and making this list made me realize how much more there is to explore there.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: November 24, 2023

− − Content Menu

• Tourist Attractions (1-18)
• Shows + Events (19-38)
• Museums + Monuments + Memorials (39-53)
• Outdoors + Urban Parks (54-68)
• Thrills + Adventure (69-73)
• Shopping (74-82)
• Miscellaneous (83-93)

Seasonal + Special Events

• Map of the Area
• Essential Tips for Your Tour
• Where to Stay

Planning Checklist

The ultimate orlando florida bucket list – 101 things to do in orlando.

Because theme parks are the most popular attractions in Orlando, we couldn’t leave them out, but we listed them briefly so that you can know about all the other great things to do in Orlando.

Tourist Attractions + Local Attractions

Ghost adventures →.

Ghost tours of cemeteries and haunted buildings.

Arcade City, I Drive 360

Various arcade games, from classic pinball to modern driving games.

Cafe Tu Tu Tango

Artsy, eclectic cafe that serves unique tapas. Live entertainment throughout the week.

Gatorland →

Gator wrestling, snake show, swamp walk, you can wrestle an alligator, Screamin Gator Zip Line, Trainer for a day program feeding baby alligators.

Fun Spot America →

Theme park with go-karts and roller coasters.

Helicopter Rides

Over all the parks, there are several companies.

Tank America

Drive an actual tank through a half-mile course full of obstacles, turns, hills, and surprises.

Ice Bar Orlando

Grab a drink from this below freezing bar that’s built from ice.

Legoland Florida →

Largest Legoland in the world.

Madame Tussauds →

See your favorite celebrities and historic icons in their life-size wax forms.

Orlando Eye →

400 ft tall observation wheel.

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

Putt putt that’s great for a fun date night or come play with the family.

Planet Hollydwood

Tribute-to-Hollywood American restaurant. Check out all the cool movie memorabilia here.

Seaworld Parks →

Aquatica Waterpark ,  Discovery Cove ,  SeaWorld Orlando

Toothsome CHocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen

Willy Wonka inspired.

Universal Orlando →

Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure with the main attraction The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Volcano Bay Waterpark

Walt Disney World Parks →

Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot (you can drink around the world), Hollywood Studios, Blizzard Beach Water Park, and Typhoon Lagoon (they do surf lessons). If you’ve visited before, you can always try a new way to explore the parks with a backstage tour or a Segway tour. If you are up for a challenge, try running the Disney Marathon. It might be more about meeting the Princesses with no lines.

Wonderworks →

100+ hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, ropes course, etc.

See More: 25 Free Things to do in Orlando Florida

Spectate: Shows + Events

Amway center sports complex →.

Go see an Orlando Magic game.

The Beacham & The Social →

(DT Orlando) Live music venue and nightclub party till after hours.

Steinmetz Hall →

The venue achieves an N1 sound rating – the lowest level at which humans can detect sound.

Polynesian Fire Luau at the Orlando Forum →

Luau and Samoan Fire Dance dinner show with Hawaiian, Tahitian, Tongan and Polynesian entertainers.

Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts →

Catch a Broadway musical, symphony orchestra, or a comedy show here.

Enzian Theater

Oldies at the Wednesday Night Pitcher Show and other movies. If you haven’t seen The Room yet, do yourself a favor and pick up a box of plastic spoons and go!

ESPN Wide World of SPorts Complex →

Nine large venues that hosts various amateur and professional sporting events throughout the year.

Full Sail Live →

WWE NXT  wrestling match taping.

Grapefruit League Game

Braves come for spring training.

House of Blues Orlando →

They have a Sunday Gospel Brunch.

Drawn to Life Cirque du Soleil →

Disney animation comes to life via acrobatics.

Capone’s Dinner & Show

Transport yourself to 1931 gangland Chicago for a fun and entertaining show.

Mango’s Tropical Cafe

Enjoy Carnival style performances with your Latin and Caribbean food.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Knights, javelins, horses! Be aware, you’ll be eating without utensils.

Orlando City Soccer Game →

Tailgate party at the Citrus Bowl.

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure →

Family-friendly dinner show.

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant

(Downtown Disney) We’ve gone here a lot for the bread pudding and piano bar.

Sak Comedy Lab

Locals will tell you it’s the best improv comedy in Orlando.

Sleuth’s Mystery Dinner Shows

Solve a murder mystery during dinner.

The Abbey →

Chic lounge and theater for live music and comedy.

Museums + Monuments + Memorials

Basilica of the national shrine of mary.

Queen of the Universe

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

World’s largest collection of Louis Tiffany stained glass art.

Cityarts Factory

(DT Orlando) Showcases new and emerging talent, changes on a monthly basis.

Kerouac House

See where the author of  On The Road, Dharma Bums  lived.

Leu Gardens / Harry P. Leu Gardens

A grand, 50-acre botanic garden and estate on Lake Rowena with roses, camellias, butterfly garden, and more. Admission is free during their annual plant sale flora and fauna bonanza in March and pick up a few plants for your home.

Maitland Art Center

Mayan Revival buildings of Orange County’s first National Historic Landmark.

Mennello Museum of American Art

We loved the collection of folk art.

Orange County Regional History Center

5 story museum on the history of Central Florida.

Orlando Museum of Art

Select Wednesdays 6-830 they have Art Night Out – create your own masterpiece plus beverage in cost.

Orlando Science Center

There are lots of hands-on exhibits and planetarium shows. You can also get some free therapy from Eliza the computer psychologist.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum Newport

Specialty museums with oddities and interesting attractions.

Sea Life Orlando Aquarium →

Well designed tanks and displays with knowledgable staff.

Skeletons: Museum of Osteology

America’s largest skeleton museum.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition →

Museum dedicated to Titanic artifacts.

World of Chocolate Museum and Cafe

Learn about the history of chocolate. Cafe is free to visit.

Outdoors + Urban Parks

Airboat rides →.

See gators in their natural habitat.

Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

Rehab center for hawks, owls, etc.

Bay Hill Club & Lodge

Golf here. Other great places to golf include Waldorf Astoria Club, Grand Cypress Resort, or Reunion Resort that’s designed by golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, and Arnold Palmer.

Disney Wilderness Preserve

See some of the local landscape and wildlife.

Fishing Charters

Plenty of fishing charters from Orlando.

Giraffe Ranch

Small safari-like adventures.

Florida Dolphin Tours

Dolphin encounters near Clearwater Beach and other excursions.

Hot Air Ballooning Over Orlando

Ride over Disney and Universal Parks and more.

Lake Eola Park

It’s popular for swan boat rides, paddle boats, wallking, feeding swans. There’s also a 6 min fountain show at 8:30 pm and free yoga on Sundays.

Mead Botanical Gardens

(Winter Park) Short paths, good for a quick stroll through some planted gardens. You might even see otters and wild birds.

Orlando Wetlands Park

You can see gators here. It’s not a natural habitat but an eco project to recycle Orlando’s used water.

Shingle Creek Regional Park

(Kissimmee) Kayaking with alligators, bald eagles, etc at the source of the Florida Everglades. You can experience it through an airboat ride or if you dare, by kayak.

Tibet-Butler Preserve

No admission fees to enjoy this preserve.

Wekiwa Springs State park

(Altamonte Springs) Cool springs to swim in, can kayak, snorkel, canoe, hike, or cycle.

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

Through Chain of Lakes.

Thrills + Adventure

Andretti indoor kart racing →.

Fast karts and challenging tracks.

iFly Indoor Skydiving Orlando →

Thrilling experience, great if you’re not ready to try the real deal.

Orlando Watersports Complex

Wakeboarding, wakeskating, wakesurfing, kneeboarding, waterskiing.

Wallaby Ranch Hang Gliding

Reservations are recommended.

Sling Shot and Starflyer at Magical Midway

World’s largest slingshot and swings that rise above the ground over 230 ft, rotating 360 degrees at approximately 50 mph.

Disney Springs

(formerly Downtown Disney) Ride the Aerophile balloon here.

East End Market

Earthy and locally sourced eatery and market.

Largest flea market in the US with thousands of different booths.

The Florida Mall

Central Florida’s largest shopping center, 1.7 million sq ft.

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

Lots of bargain and outlet shops.

The Mall at Millenia

The upscale mall.

Orlando Premium Outlets

You’ll see tour buses stop here, so be ready for large crowds at all times.

Universal Citywalk

Known for shopping and nightlife and includes Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, Hard Rock Cafe, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co, NBA City, and more.

Winter Park Farmer’s Market

Fresh produce, bakery items, etc.

Miscellaneous

Courtesy bar.

Old-school cocktail bar. They have cocktail classes – 545 pm first and third Sat of the month.

Cowboys Orlando

Orlando’s best country nightclub.

Crayola Experience in the Florida Mall →

Create your own custom crayon here.

The Escape Effect Escape Rooms

Feature length customizable escape games up to 2 hours long! Voted Orlando’s #1 Entertainment Experience.

Dine at a Celebrity Chef’s Restaurant

Morimoto Asia, Guy Fieri’s Chicken Guy, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, and more.

Hanson’s Shoe Repair

A popular speakeasy. Other speakeasies to check out are Park Social, Pharmacy, the Treehouse Orlando, Geek Easy, the Courtesy, the Woods, and the Imperial Wine Bar & Beer Garden.

Boggy Creek Airboat Tour →

Explore the Central Florida Everglades by skimming above the water’s surface in an airboat.

Orlando Brewing

Free brewery tours Mon-Sat at 6 PM except on Beer30 (30th of each month) – You can also brewery hop to Ocean Sun, Crooked Can, Ten10, and Red Cypress.

Truffles and Trifles

Take a cooking class.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando Spa Day

Other spa options: Ritz Carlton Spa at Ritz Carlton Orlando Grand Lakes, Poseidon Spa at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, or the Salt Room for salt therapy.

World’s Largest Mcdonalds

It’s 19,000 square feet.

Cocoa Beach

( 59.8 mi / 1 h 2 min East , with tolls) Check out the Sea Turtle Preservation Society Turtle Walks.

Clearwater Beach

( 118 mi / 1 h 58 min SW , with tolls) Try jet-skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddle boarding here.

Daytona Beach

( 55.8 mi / 57 min NE ) Typical beach activities plus Daytona International Speedway and Daytona Beach Pier.

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State park

Swim with manatees down the Crystal River.

Kennedy Space Center →

( 51.9 mi / 51 mi East  of Orlando) Visitor Complex + Shuttle Landing Facility, Titusville.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

(Titusville) Kayak over a bioluminescent lagoon.

New Smyrna Beach

(Volusia County) The shark attack capital of the world according to Guinness Book of World Records.

Silver Springs State Park

(Ocala) Glass bottom boat rides see fish and occasional gator sightings, and scenery with Spanish moss.

Great prix fixe menu prices at 30 of Orlando’s top restaurants.

3rd Thursday of the Month

Culture crawl every 3rd Thurs of the month.

Flower and Garden Festival, Epcot

(Feb-May) Amazing displays of your favorite Disney charactors as floral and topiary sculptures.

Strawberry Festival, Plant City

(Mar 1-11,  64.6 mi / 1 hr 15 min SW ) 11-day festival that celebrates the harvest.

Florida Film Festival by Enzian Theater

(end of April) Current, independent, and international cinema.

Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival

(mid-May – end of May) Longest running fringe festival in the US.

International FOod and Wine Festival, Epcot

(late Aug – mid-Nov) Try food and drinks from around the world.

Lakeridge Winery and Vineyard’s Annual Harvest Grape Stomp

(Aug) Live music, winery tours, grape stomping competitions.

Mickey’s Not so Scary Halloween Party, Magic Kingdom

(late Aug – Nov 1) Costume parties, candy, and more. Great for young kids.

Halloween Horror Night, Universal

(mid-Sept – early Nov) Haunted houses, scare zones and live entertainment. Not intended for young children.

Orlando Film Festival at Cobb Plaza Cinema Cafe

(late Oct) Filmmakers, donors and partners come to celebrate the movie-viewing experience.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Magic Kingdom

(early Nov – late Dec) Holiday treats, performances, and special events.

Macy’s Day Parade, Universal Studios

After Thanksgiving, this parade comes from NYC to Orlando and stays here until Christmas. They call it Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s.

Holidays Around the WOrld, Epcot

(late Nov – Dec 30) Don’t miss the Candlelight Processional.

Grinchmas, Universal Islands of Adventure

(Dec) Who-liday Christmas performances and more.

Christmas, Florida

( 23.5 mi / 26 min east ) Go during Christmas to get your cards postmarked here.

Florida Citrus Parade

(end of Dec) Celebrates the holidays and two annual college football bowl games: the Citrus Bowl and the Camping World Bowl.

101 Things to Do in Orlando FL Map

Tips for First Time Visitors to Orlando FL

• The Best Time to Visit is Spring or Fall. The weather is good and you avoid the summer crowds.
• If you are visiting the main parks (Walt Disney World and Universal), do everything you can to avoid holidays! It becomes ridiculously packed. We had a friend who went the week of Christmas and Magic Kingdom closed because it was at capacity!
• Don’t try to do everything in one day. Esther visited all the Disney parks in one day before as a bucket list item but it did not feel very good. You’re spending most of the time running around between them that it was hard to enjoy any of the parks.
• If you’re visiting between late May to mid-October, then be prepared for a bit of rain every day. The rain doesn’t usually last, but be prepared with a  lightweight rain jacket . It’s good to have handy even not during the rainy season.
• It gets hot! Be prepared with water ( these are our favorite travel water bottles . We love this  reusable water bottle  that folds up when we don’t need it) and sunblock.
• Don’t forget to budget for other extra fees. Park tickets are already pricey, but you also have to pay for parking, food, etc. Parking usually runs roughly $20 per park.
• Dress comfortably and in layers if you’ll be out all day.

Where to Stay in Orlando FL

What’s nearby.

• New Smyrna Beach  ( 55.4 mi NE, 55 min,  map )
• Kennedy Space Center  (46 mi E, 55 min,  map )
• Cocoa Beach  ( 60.3 mi E, 1 hr 5 min,  map )
• Sarasota  ( 131.4 mi SW, 2 hr,  map )
• Miami  ( 244 mi S, 3 hr 45 min,  map )
• Key West  ( 393 mi S, 6 hr 15 min,  map )
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Orlando hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Orlando travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with CityPass .

More Resources

• Lonely Planet Pocket Orlando & Walt Disney World
• Lonely Planet Florida
• Orlando Street Map
• Unofficial Guide to Walk Disney World
• Magic Guidebooks Walt Disney World  (find hidden mickeys!)
• Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

Did we miss anything? What would your ideal trip to Orlando include?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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I also enjoyed some fabulous places during my last journey of this alluring city and came back with great experience.

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• United States

51 Best Tourist Attractions in Orlando

• 2 Pinterest

There’s no doubt that Orlando is the theme park capital of the world . There are plenty of world-class theme parks here – and Disney and Universal Studios are just the beginning. Water parks , animal parks , and plenty of other wonders also await in the city where everybody has a chance to be a kid again.

There’s more to Orlando than parks, though. Whether you’re looking for amazing shopping , up for exploring some natural wonders , or curious to learn more about the stars at the Kennedy Space Wonders , Orlando won’t disappoint.

If you’re after fun tourist attractions in Orlando — whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a die-hard amusement park fan — we’ve put together 51 of the best the city has to offer.

1 – Magic Kingdom

As one of the best Orlando theme parks  and one of the top tourist attractions in Orlando , Magic Kingdom has plenty to offer. Imagined by Walt Disney himself, it is also the oldest of all the Disney parks in Florida and the most visited theme park in the world.

Also known as “ The Happiest Place On Earth ,” Magic Kingdom’s focal point is its Cinderella Castle, around which all the park areas or “lands” are set up. These include Main Street , with its many early-20th century shops and cafes, as well as Adventureland and its many famous attractions, including Pirates of the Caribbean and Jungle Cruise.

There are plenty of thrill rides here too, including log flume Splash Mountain, outdoor-indoor roller coaster Space Mountain, and train coaster Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The park is also famous for its daily parade featuring all the biggest Disney characters .

• Magic Kingdom tickets

2 – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Formerly known as MGM Studios , this park is all about the magic of film, TV, and music . While there’s a bit of everything here, the park focuses heavily on Hollywood’s Golden Age , which falls between the 1910s and the 1960s.

Visitors can explore seven themed areas in the park. For example, Echo Lake is dedicated to major films like the Indiana Jones universe , and features live shows and adventures based on the movies. Star Wars has its own area, which offers simulators and a massive interactive experience that combines multiple ride systems.

The world of The Muppet Show is alive here, and there’s a horror thrill ride based on The Twilight Zone and a dark indoor rollercoaster based on an Aerosmith’s song.

Other areas feature outdoor amphitheaters , indoor theaters , and plenty of live shows.

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3 – Animal Kingdom

The largest of all the Disney parks , Animal Kingdom is also the only one focusing on animals and home to black rhinoceroses , hippos , zebras , African bush elephants , and gorillas .

Animal Kingdom is divided into seven areas, starting with the main entrance section filled with animal exhibits, a cafe, and a number of animal exhibits (don’t miss the giant anteater!).

From there, visitors can move on to the rest of the park, which features attractions like a t rip through the African savanna on a safari vehicle and a ride on the Wildlife Express Train through the educational and habitat areas .

The Asian region of the park features a steel roller coaster , a river rapids ride, and a live bird show . Visitors can also explore prehistoric beasts in DinoLand and catch a musical, ride a carousel or have something to eat in one of the many animal-themed restaurants .

4 – EPCOT

EPCOT’s original design goal was always to present “ a community of tomorrow .” As such, the park is always changing and evolving – but still remains near the top of the list for  fun things to do in Orlando – and new exhibits and attractions are added all the time.

The World Celebration area, where the famous silver geodesic sphere is located, serves as the center of the park and also houses one of the most popular attractions , Spaceship Earth.

The park is divided into four areas that offer 3D shows and 4D films , virtual reality games , the chance to take a boat tour through a real greenhouse, a hang glider simulator, and interactive shows. There are also plenty of thrills to be had, including a centrifugal motion simulator ride , roller coasters , and high-speed rides.

There’s plenty of live entertainment in the park, including bands and music from different countries, parades, and acrobats.

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5 – Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Disney’s Blizzard Beach is a completely heated water park , where all pools and slides keep their water at a steady 27 °C . The entire park is designed around the artificial 27-meter-tall Mount Gushmore and divided into three sloping areas.

The red slope area is home to the park’s rapids, which run through enclosed tube slides that are almost 200 meters long . The purple area features double tracks on most attractions, which are perfect for racing. Their Downhill Double Dipper is a one-of-a-kind racing tube slide where guests can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h . This area also features flume slides and an eight-lane slide.

The green slope features the park’s main attraction: a 37-meter tall slide where riders can reach speeds of up to 97 km/h. There’s also the longest “family white-water raft ride” in the world at over 420 meters.

6 – Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Considered as one of the best Orlando water parks , Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park offers plenty of attractions, water slides, and one of the largest wave pools in the world .

The park is designed around a typhoon theme and features plenty of “storm-like” features, including a 15-meter-tall geyser that erupts from the top of Mount Mayday every 30 minutes. The park offers speed flume rides that can reach speeds of up to 63 kph , water coasters, and body slides that drop riders from a three-stories height.

Raft rides , sandy beach areas, a 640-meters-long “lazy river,” and tidal pools . In addition to two designated picnic areas , visitors can also try many snack carts throughout the park.

7 – Orlando Science Center

Just as much fun for kids and adults alike , this hands-on interactive science museum explores all forms of science and technology . The spaces are separated into exhibit halls covering different aspects of science – from the prehistoric world of dinosaurs to our planet to science fiction’s real science.

Visitors will be able to launch air rockets , learn about Florida’s native and invasive species , explore holograms and teleportation principles, and “tour” the solar system .

The Orlando Science Center has two theaters. In the first one, a 740-square-meter, the 180-degree screen offers an immersive experience that brings you right into the world of nature and science. In the second one, you’ll be able to catch live science shows .

8 – The Wheel at ICON Park

There’s no better way to see Orlando that from up high. And there’s no better place to see it all than from the 122-meter-tall Ferris wheel at ICON Park. Step into the air-conditioned, all-glass gondolas for an 18-minute ride that gives you stunning views over Universal Studios, Disney World, and Downtown Orlando.

Come back at night for a stunning display of colors from the wheel’s 64,000 LEDs.

Once off The Wheel, take some time to explore ICON Park . There’s plenty of shopping and over 40 restaurants here, as well as seven different attractions , including a small railroad that travels around the park.

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9 – Central Florida Zoo

Located just north of Orlando, the zoo focuses heavily on conservation and offers many educational programs .

The 116-acre space is home to around 400 animals , including many large mammals (Florida black bears, cougars, and cheetahs), reptiles , a number of tropical birds , and a number of unique invertebrates , such as the giant African millipede and the Chilean rose tarantula.

Additional attractions include an aerial adventure course , a carousel , and a small splash park . Visitors can attend giraffe feedings , pet a playful one-horned Indian rhino, or attend wildlife photography workshops .

• Central Florida Zoo tickets

10 – Orlando Museum of Art

There are plenty of fun things to do in Orlando besides theme parks and this art museum is a great example.

The Orlando Museum of Art ‘s permanent collection is rich in American art (covering the period from Colonial times to the 1960s), while the Art of the Ancient Americas collection features pottery and textiles . The contemporary collection features an extensive list of graphics and prints .

The African art collection , which focuses on “visual language,” is particularly stunning. Each piece tells a story about the artist who created it – whether that’s a special headdress from a hunter in Uganda or a beaded apron worn by the Ndebele women to show they are married.

In addition to rotating series of temporary exhibitions , the museum also offers art appreciation classes , lectures , and film screenings .

11 – Everglades Airboat Tour

The Everglades are one of Florida’s most unique ecosystems . Consisting of tropical wetlands and sawgrass prairies , the Everglades are home to over 350 species of birds , threatened species like the West Indian manatee , and plenty of crocodiles .

Touring the Everglades is an experience you’ll never forget. And doing so in an airboat just adds to the fun. Speed across swamps – there are over 4000 acres of protected swamps and marshes in the Everglades – looking for wildlife and learning about the history of the area and the species that call it home.

There are different airboat tours available – from one-hour tours to all-day tours that combine several local attractions (such as seeing manatees) with an airboat adventure.

• airboat tours in Orlando

12 – Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando is actually two parks in one : Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure . Although offsite, Volcano Bay water park and the Universal CityWalk area are also part of the park.

The oldest of the two parks is the Universal Studios, where all rides and attractions are based on movies . Walk the subterranean vaults of Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, ride the Hogwarts Express , experience the magic of E.T. , and fight it off alongside the Transformers in a 3D adventure.

There’s also a Simpsons ride and plenty of rides and attractions for the little ones, including the kid-friendly Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster and the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem motion simulation ride.

Universal Studios runs special events throughout the year, including Halloween Horror Nights and a Mardi Gras event between February and April. They also have eight ongoing shows throughout the day, including a live show featuring animal actors from movies and TV, musical acts, and parades

• Universal Orlando tickets

13 – Islands of Adventure

The second park in the Universal Orlando world, Islands of Adventure also pays homage to movies, but with a stronger focus on thrill rides . The star of the show is Jurassic World VelociCoaster, which features a 47-meter fall and a maximum speed of 110 km/h .

There’s also Doctor Doom’s Fearfall , which shoots riders up in the air at massive speeds, and the Jurassic Park River Adventure , a thrill water ride with a 26-meter drop.

Don’t miss the park’s live shows , which feature singing frogs, an exciting adventure featuring lasers and flame effects (Poseidon’s Fury), and a Dr. Seuss musical for the younger visitors.

14 – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

For fans of Harry Potter , the themed areas at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida are a dream come true. Visitors will step into a re-creation of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry , ride the Hogwarts Express and the Flight of the Hippogriff steel roller coaster, and travel back to Hogwarts Castle via a motion-based dark ride.

The fun doesn’t stop with the rides, either. You can actually go shopping at Hogsmeade and grab some food or a Butterbeer at one of the themed pubs or restaurants. Make sure you pick up some Harry Potter merchandise and stop for a selfie in one of the many hidden turns and corners of the wizardly world .

15 – Volcano Bay

Part of Universal Orlando Resort , this volcano-themed water park offers plenty of fun rides, including a wave pool, lazy river, and rapids.

The center of the park is Krakatau, a 61-meter artificial volcano that holds the park’s tallest slides . At 38 meters tall, the Ko’okiri Body Plunge is also the tallest of its kind in the country. A water coaster takes riders inside the volcano and there are also multi-passenger rafts available for calmer adventures.

Visitors can r ent private cabanas during their visit, where they’ll find seating, a small fridge, and concierge services, so you can take breaks in peace in between all the adrenaline rides.

16 – Harry P. Leu Gardens

With over 50 acres of greenery, landscaped gardens, and trails, the Harry P. Leu Gardens urban oasis features temperate and tropical plants – from palms to azaleas to camellias, camphor trees, and 200-year-old oaks.

The Leu House Museum is also within the gardens and is a great example of turn-of-the-century Florida living. Visitors can join guided tours and discover the surrounding gardens, home to many outdoor sculptures .

The gardens also have a non-lending library and a great gift shop where you can pick up garden accessories and unique gifts. Visitors can join a Geocaching treasure hunting adventure or attend one of the many events , including outdoor movie nights , live concerts, and special plant sale markets.

17 – WonderWorks

Described as an amusement park for the mind , WonderWorks is filled with interactive science exhibit s that will both entertain and educate visitors of all ages .

The center is divided into six main zones covering extreme weather , physical challenges , space , lights and sound , and art . There’s also an Imagination Lab, where the youngest visitors can learn basic science principles .

See a Tesla coil in action, feel an earthquake , and experience category 1 hurricane -force winds. Visitors can also lie down on a bed made out of 3500 nails and try out a life-size replica of an astronaut suit .

There is a virtual roller coaster , a glow-in-the-dark indoor ropes course , a laser tag arena , and a 4D simulation ride for those looking for more thrills.

• WonderWorks tickets

18 – Amway Center

Orlando’s legendary indoor arena opened in 2010 and it has quickly become one of the most exciting tourist attractions in Orlando .

The space is now home to the NBA’s Orlando Magic but it’s also extensively used to host other sports events , including professional wrestling, ice hockey, and mixed martial arts.

With an arena space that can sit over 16,000 people, this is also a favorite venue for concerts . Some of the biggest names in music – including Dua Lipa , Lady Gaga , and Taylor Swift – have performed here. The space also hosts exhibitions and other major events throughout the year.

The arena offers state-of-the-art technology that includes over 1,000 high-definition monitors and 60 private suites. There are plenty of options to grab a bite or a drink here, including a rooftop bar and a number of food trucks. During certain events, there are also pre-show dinner options available.

• NBA game tickets in Orlando

19 – Madame Tussauds

If you’ve never been to a Madame Tussauds museum before, you’ve been missing out. With a full floor of famous faces on offer, the Orlando branch is a great place to start.

Join The Justice League in their fight to save the world, join pop icons and A-listers on stage, or pose net to Marilyn Monroe and Taylor Swift for a selfie to remember.

In addition to the usual wax figures , the museum also offers a few interactive experiences where you have a chance to see behind the scenes and see how the figures are made . Touch, pose, and photograph to your heart’s content in this fun museum .

• Madame Tussauds tickets

20 – Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando

Robert Ripley’s large collections of the odd and the unusual have fascinated families for decades, and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! branch in Orlando is no exception.

With almost 1,000 square meters and 16 galleries filled with interactive experiences and exhibits that you won’t believe are true, this fun museum will keep entertained for hours .

At the Orlando museum – built to look as if the building is disappearing into a giant sinkhole – you can see an authentic vampire killing kit , animal oddities , a section of the Berlin Wall , and real dinosaur eggs .

The special Florida Gallery offers unique local exhibits , including ancient alligators.

21 – Sea Life

A favorite among the ICON Park attractions, Sea Life is home to Florida’s only 360° ocean tunnel . Here, you don’t only get to see the ocean all around you but also above your head. Watch eels , sharks , rays , and all kinds of fish surrounding you as you walk through the tunnel.

The aquarium is home to starfish , anemones , a large display of jellyfish , and several species of sharks – from the smaller bamboo sharks to epaulette sharks, also known as “walking sharks” because they can actually walk on the ocean floor.

Travel through the everglades, feed a swarm of tang fish, and see the unique species that inhabit the Indian Ocean. And don’t forget to stop by the Coastal Rockpools to touch a starfish!

• Sea Life tickets

22 – Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Orlando’s premier performing arts center , Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts , is home to four stages .

The two larger spaces (which sit 1,700 and 2,300 guests) are mainly used for Broadway-style shows and symphony concerts . Examples of past shows include an Immersive 3D show featuring the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and Broadway’s Cats.

The two smaller spaces are reserved for more intimate events , folk-pop concerts , and comedy shows .

The center offers family-friendly shows as part of its regular calendar. These include everything from live musicals to live symphony orchestras perming music from the movies.

The theaters also offer behind-the-scenes tours , where visitors can learn more about the history and architecture of the Center, as well as take a closer look at how the magic comes to life.

23 – Gatorland

The self-proclaimed “ Alligator Capital of the World ” occupies over 100 acres just outside Orlando.

Home to thousands of gators , including not only alligators but also crocodiles , birds , snakes , and lizards . Gatorland is also home to very rare leucistic (with patchy colored skin) and albino (completely white) alligators.

Many of the animals here come from rescues . For example, Gatorland buys alligators from trappers who find them in cities or backyards and would otherwise kill them without the park’s intervention.

In addition to watching animals in marshes and natural spaces , visitors can also stop by a petting zoo , attend alligator feeding shows , and take part in educational programs .

There’s also a small railroad and a 370-meters-long zip line over a pond filled with alligators.

• Gatorland tickets

24 – Aquatica Park

A sister park of SeaWorld Orlando, several of the rides and attractions at Aquatica Park connect with animal habitats. This is the case of the park’s main attraction , Reed Plunge, a body slide where riders zoom through a pool filled with dolphins , sharks , and many fish .

Other popular rides include the world’s tallest dueling racer , high-speed flume rides, and a multi-drop tower . Need a break from all the excitement? The park also offers lazy rivers, lounge chairs, and private cabanas you can rent poolside.

There are special play areas for kids so even the youngest ones in the family can have fun in the water , as well as underwater viewing areas to catch sight of the playful dolphins.

25 – Museum of Illusions

Get ready for mind-blowing and all-around fun . Another great attraction located at ICON Park, this museum offers 50 amazing exhibits that will leave you scratching your head.

From a reverse room that defies gravity to a place where everybody is suddenly a miniature to trick mirrors , the Museum of Illusions is guaranteed to entertain the whole family .

Travel into the world of the weird as you experience mirror tricks, optical illusions , and much more. Museum attendants are available to help you make the best photos .

• Museum of Illusions tickets

26 – Morse Museum of American Art

Although it focuses heavily on art nouveau in general, the Morse Museum of American Art is best known for its extensive collection of works by artist and designer Louis Comfort Tiffany .

Tiffany himself is famous for his amazing leaded-glass lampshades, but he also created glass panels, windows, mosaics, jewelry, and furniture.

The museum’s Tiffany collection covers the entirety of his life and legacy and includes pieces like a four-meter-tall mosaic and marble mantelpiece, leaded-glass chandeliers, and carved wooden doors.

The museum’s most prominent item is glass taken from a chapel Tiffany designed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

In addition to the Tiffany collection, the museum also features American decorative art and sculpture from the 19th and early 20th centuries. There’s a significant pottery collection , as well as painting and graphic arts , 16th-century stained glass , and metalwork .

27 – Kennedy Space Center

NASA’s main operations center – from where the early Apollo and Space Shuttle programs were managed – is a fascinating place to discover .

Visitors arriving at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will encounter a number of exhibits featuring exciting items like an Apollo capsule, the real Lunar Module 9 , Apollo spacesuits , and the giant Saturn V rocket (the largest to ever flow through space).

There are a number of experiences here besides the displays, including a special bus tour to a rocket launch site originally built for the Apollo program.

Two IMAX theaters also allow visitors to experience the Apollo 11 Moon landing and feel what it was like to be inside the Apollo during its launch.

You can also stop by the US Astronauts Hall of Fame and walk around the Rocket Garden, an outdoor space filled with historic rockets that were once in space.

• Kennedy Space Center tickets

28 – Discovery Cove

Want to try an exclusive animal experience in a tropical setting? How does swimming with dolphins sound? How about snorkeling with rays or hand-feeding tropical birds ? At Discovery Cove , you get a chance to do it all.

Welcome to one of the most fun tourist attractions in Orlando , an interactive marine park where every experience requires an advanced reservation. This guarantees your close-up encounters will never be overrun with people, so you can have a unique and relaxing experience to remember.

The park’s main attraction is their Dolphin Lagoon, where visitors can meet and interact with a dolphin as an animal care specialist shares information about their life and care. At the Grand Reef, guests can don a dive helmet to try an underwater walk tour, feed the rays or cross the many paths and bridges and see sharks swimming right underneath you.

There are swim-with-sharks experiences , a free-flight aviary with hundreds of animals, and a lazy river where you can ride the currents past caves, waterfalls , and a tropical rainforest .

29 – Chocolate Kingdom

Walk into an interactive journey to see how that delicious chocolate bar you love gets made. Follow the process starting with the basic cocoa bean, then join a guided tour with fun characters to guide you through the rest of the steps.

Learn about the history of chocolate , see the chocolate-making process in real-time, customize your own chocolate bar , and try samples as you walk through the factory.

Make sure you pick up some chocolate to take home with you at the end of the tour.

• Chocolate Kingdom tours

30 – Blue Spring State Park

Originally created for manatee protection efforts, this 2,600-acre park is now a designated manatee refuge and a popular mating area between November and March.

The rest of the year, visitors can swim , kayak or scuba dive in the St. Johns River. For those who want to learn more about manatees and the conservation work done here, there are also special boat tours available to swim or paddle along with these gentle giants.

The park is also home to the historic Louis P. Thursby House (open for tours), a campground with air-conditioned cabins for overnight stays, and a 5.8 km long trail.

Canoes and kayaks can be rented along the river, and the park offers two separate picnic areas .

Directions in Google Maps

31 – SAK Comedy Lab

This small theater is one of the most fun tourist attractions in Orlando . Dedicated only to improv comedy and often featuring big names, the intimate theater can seat 250 people.

SAK Comedy Lab offers two types of shows : rotating, temporary shows and a house show that plays several times a week.

The rotating shows cover many different topics: from Broadway-meets-comedy to shows where comedians provide their own funny dubbing for films to solo performances.

The theater’s main show is called Duel of Fools and features two teams competing against each other as they improvise songs and scenes based on the audience’s suggestions .

Want a taste of how improv works? The theater offers a free class so you can get some tips and learn how to make people laugh.

32 – SeaWorld Orlando

A combination of marine animal park and amusement park , SeaWorld Orlando has something for everybody. Divided into many areas, each designed around a specific theme or animal, the park is well-known for its wild roller coasters .

As the fastest, longest, and tallest roller coaster in Orlando , Mako will take your breath away. It reaches speeds of 117 km/h with a drop of 61 meters.

There’s also a manta ray-shaped coaster , which riders reach after walking through an aquarium exhibit. Other themed rides include Antarctica, a dark ride featuring penguins , a river rapids ride, and a water coaster.

For those who prefer a calmer visit, there are outdoor/indoor exhibit areas , a theater featuring a 360° dome and 3D content , a number of water play areas, and flamingo-themed paddle boats . There are also several live animal shows , a music concert series, and themed events throughout the year.

• SeaWorld Orlando tickets

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33 – Fun Spot America

There’s more to amusement parks in Florida than Disney. And as the capital of fun , Orlando has its fair share of it.

A great one to try if you’re looking for more traditional, old-style fun is Fun Spot America. Covering 14 acres and offering 27 attractions (including three roller coasters), this is a fun place to spend an afternoon without breaking the bank.

The park’s White Lightning roller coaster is the oldest wooden roller coaster in Orlando . The 619 meters long ride can reach speeds of up to 71km per hour and offers a fall of 21 meters at a step angle.

There are also go-kart tracks and a number of thrill rides , including pendulum rides, one of the tallest sky coasters in the world, and launching games . Visitors will also find plenty of arcade games and special-themed events throughout the year.

• Fun Spot America tickets

34 – Exotic Animal Experience

Want to pet an African pygmy goat, spend some time with a kangaroo or hold a sloth ? How about getting a hug from a lemur or enjoying up-close and personal interaction with a porcupine ?

This unique seven-acre interactive zoo is not about watching animals from the other side of a glass. At Exotic Animal Experience , you’ll come in contact with all kinds of exotic creatures , feed some and play with others.

Animal caregivers are always around to help educate visitors and make sure the interactions are always fun and safe. Don’t miss out on one of the most unique tourist attractions in Orlando !

35 – Legoland Florida

Legoland Florida is actually three parks in one : an amusement park, a water park, and a special theme park based on the animation series, Peppa Pig.

Legoland Park offers 55 rides , most of which are suitable for kids under 12 . These include small wooden coasters, train rides, soft-play activities, a “driving school,” water rides, and an imagination zone with hands-on LEGO activities .

There are also larger rides for older kids and adults , such as a suspended roller coaster. Visitors can also catch 4D films and live stunt shows, and meet their favorite LEGO characters .

LEGO’s water park has all the rides, thrills and fun you can possibly want on a warm summer day. You can try wave pools, racing slides, interactive play areas in a shallow pool, a lazy river, and body slides.

For the youngest fans of Pipa Pig, there are plenty of themed rides and attractions as well.

• Legoland Florida tickets

36 – Crayola Experience Orlando

Filled with many hands-on, creative activities, The Crayola Experience is a colorful attraction the kids will love .

A place to discover newer Crayola colors , create Crayola spin art you can take home, and print a coloring page with your own photo. Kids can also make their own Crayolas in a number of shapes, including seahorses or a car.

There’s also a Glow in the Dark coloring room , plenty of videos and interactive exhibits. There’s even a machine that allows you to name your own crayon to take home.

This is one place where the gift shop is just as much fun as the attraction itself. Pick some crayons to take home and find Crayola-inspired toys , bags, and many other souvenirs.

• Crayola Experience Orlando tickets

37 – Pirates Dinner Adventure

Forget sitting at a plain old restaurant for your next meal. Instead, head to a live-action Pirates Dinner Adventure show where the exciting world of pirates comes to life.

Guests are invited to arrive at least an hour before the show starts to grab appetizers , meet the show characters , and take fun photos . After the show, the same area will offer music and even more photo opportunities with the cast.

Once it’s time for the show to start, take your seat and wait for your delicious three-course dinner to arrive. All along, you’ll enjoy the crew of pirates embark on a stunning adventure right in front of your eyes.

See the amazing stunts and non-stop action as the pirates fight, laugh, and blast their cannons.

38 – iFly Indoor Skydiving

Whether you’re not up for trying the real thing or want a taste of what flying feels like , these state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnels are full of fun.

Put on a jumpsuit and goggles, get into the tunnel with an instructor and learn, literally, how to fly. Wind tunnels mimic the feeling and freedom of a freefall without any of the fear. Plus, it’s so safe that children as young as three can try it out.

Typical flights are just 60 seconds long, but there are packages available so you can fly more than once or stay in the tunnel for longer. After your flight, you’ll be able to buy photos or digital downloads of yourself mid-flight.

• indoor skydiving in Orlando

39 – Mead Botanical Garden

At 47 acres, this massive park has plenty to offer to those looking for a city escape .

Named after American naturalist Theodore Luqueer Mead (who discovered a number of butterfly species), the Mead Botanical Garden honors that legacy in its butterfly gardens , which are filled with special flowering plants .

For those visiting, there is also a legacy garden and greenhouse filled with begonias , cycads , and a giant bromeliad , as well as a garden dedicated to native Florida plants . The park has two major habitats within it: uplands and wetlands.

Both feature plants that thrive in their specific terrain, including pines and laurel oaks, as well as fauna such as gray squirrels, woodpeckers, and gopher tortoises.

The park is also home to an outdoor amphitheater that can be rented for special events but also serves as a music venue during the summer .

40 – Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

Part museum, part historical experience , this Titanic exhibition brings to life one of the most famous ships ever. The over 300 authentic artifacts (recovered from the Titanic wreck) exhibited here are just a small part of the attraction.

There are also full-room recreations, including a life-size reproduction of the Titanic’s famous Grand Staircase .

Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about what it was like to be a passenger on the Titanic , learn about the crew, and hear about the recovery efforts connected to the wreck.

Customed guides and actors will bring the history and tragedy of the Titanic to life during your visit. If you choose to buy a ticket for the Titanic Gala Dinner experience , you’ll also get to see what a dinner onboard the luxurious vessel was like.

• Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition tickets

41 – Rock Springs at Kelly Park

You’ll find your share of outdoorsy tourist attractions in Orlando , and the Rock Springs at Kelly Park is a great one to add to the list.

The 325-acre Kelly Park has plenty of things to offer – including dense forests, great campsites, and lots of birds and fun river otters – but it is best known as the home of the 13-kilometer-long Rock Springs .

With a constant temperature of 20ºC  year-round, several great swimming holes , and 98,000 liters of crystalline pure water bubbling up from underneath every minute, it’s no wonder Rock Springs is so popular.

In addition to swimming, the springs are great for tubbing , canoeing , and kayaking . There are no rental places for these inside the park, so either bring your own or get a rental from one of the many stands outside the park.

You’ll also find picnic pavilions , plenty of hiking trails and nature to enjoy along the way, limestone caves, and full-service concession stands.

42 – Island H2O Live! Waterpark

Island H2O Live! is a water park with a twist . After all, why keep all the fun to yourself when you could be sharing it with the world?

When visiting, you can sync up your wristband with the park’s free app to easily stream, post photos and share your day with everybody you know.

The app also gives you access to special promotions throughout the day, playlists , and selfie booths . You can also earn points and badges for your rides and social media shares .

Once connected, spend the day enjoying the water. Relax in the wave pool , ride a lazy river, brave the body slides (including the world’s only video-embedded waterslide), and get away from the noise in the adults-only pool .

Visitors can rent their own cabanas complete with a food and beverage service, a small fridge, lounge chairs, a charging station, and a private locker.

• Island H2O Live! tickets

43 – Orlando City Stadium

Located just t wo blocks away from the Amway Center and close to all the major attractions in downtown Orlando , the stadium is the ideal place to catch an afternoon game before going for a drink nearby.

There’s plenty of good food to be had here, with concessions stands offering all the standard fare, from pizza to cheesy nachos.

44 – Medieval Times

Travel back in time as you attend an 11th-century feast and tournament . Here, you can see an action movie come to life right in front of your eyes as you’re served a four-course meal .

For two hours, you’ll witness sword fights , jousting, horses and falcons displaying their best tricks, and a medieval tournament as you’ve never seen before.

There’s plenty to see after the show as well. Mingle with characters and explore the surroundings – there are plenty of suits of armor and historical déco r around that make for great selfie backgrounds .

There’s also a full-service bar , a gift shop filled with great medieval-inspired souvenirs and even a Museum of Torture if you’re brave enough for it.

• Medieval Times dinner and show

45 – Nona Adventure Park

Located right on Lake Nona near the airport, Nona Adventure Park offers plenty of water activities for those wanting to experience a day of fun outdoors .

The center of the park is the giant inflatable obstacle course right on the water. Jump, run, slide, and climb as you get through the course while trying not to fall into the water.

Each session gets you 50 minutes of unlimited fun (if you’re quick, you could get around a second time).

Try the wakeboard cable system next. Beginners can chat with an instructor before they give the almost 100-meter-long track a try. Intermediate and advanced riders can use the 760+ meters long track, which allows for faster speeds and include fun jumps.

On land, you can try the climbing tower , which includes 36 floating platforms , a rope course, and 15-meters-tall climbing walls. There’s also a kids’ tower available . Stick around to enjoy the beach area, grab a bite at the Splashes Bistro.

46 – Outta Control Dinner Show

Why grab a meal at a plain old restaurant when you can have great food , magic and plenty of comedy in a one-of-a-kind dinner experience instead?

Head to WonderWorks for a 90-minute food-and-fun experience where you’ll get unlimited amounts of pizza and popcorn, plus all the beer, wine and soda you can drink.

Grab a seat and get ready for a night of magicians , mimes and all kinds of crazy fun , where you can watch and laugh or choose to be part of the performance.

Get a VIP ticket for full access to the 100+ attractions WonderWorks has to offer.

• Outta Control dinner show

47 – Disney Springs

Located at Walt Disney World Resort, this shopping, dining, and entertainment complex has a never-ending and always-expanding list of things you should try.

The 49 hectares Disney Springs is divided into five sections that depict a 1930s marketplace town , a marina, a town center, and West Side, the town’s exposition center.

Each section offers architecture , restaurants , and attractions linked to the main theme. For example, the marketplace area has live music at the Riverboat Square , a vintage amphicar (a floating car), and a historic carousel.

The West Side is where all the major attractions are located, including a balloon flight , a Cirque du Soleil show , a House of Blues music hall , and an AMC dine-in movie theater .

The shopping is great everywhere, with options from classic brands to Disney stores to unique offerings like Build-a-Dino, a Coca-Cola store, and Lefty’s, a store where everything has been created especially for the left-handed.

48 – Bok Tower Gardens

These stunning 100-hectare gardens are best known for its 62-meter-tall Singing Tower , which was designed to hold water tanks for the garden but also a carillon (a musical instrument where a keyboard is used to ring 60 bronze bells) at the very top. Today, the tower is also surrounded by a koi pond .

The Bok Tower Gardens started life as a bird sanctuary when magazine editor Edward W. Bok and his wife bought local land to prevent it from developing and protect wildlife .

As the area expanded over the years, it also added a visitor center with exhibit space , a cafe, a garden gift shop, and plenty of fun information about the gardens’ history and ecology .

Several endangered species call the gardens home, and visitors taking to the 2.4-km long Preserve Trail will find plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings .

49 – SKELETONS: Museum Of Osteology

When it comes to unique tourist attractions in Orlando , the Museum Of Osteology – one of only two in the country dedicated to bones – is hard to beat. It features over 500 animal skeletons – from rhinos and giraffes to penguins, apes, and many small animals.

The skeletons are arranged into exhibits that mimic the animals’ natural environments and include details on how they support the animal’s natural movement – whether that’s running, swimming or flying.

There are even human skeletons in display and a small exhibit showing how flesh-eating beetles are used to clean bones.

Scavenger hunts and other activities will keep kids busy. There’s a short film featuring the museum and how the displays are put together, as well as plenty of educational materials for all ages .

Don’t miss out the gift shop for some very unique items to take home.

50 – The Great Magic Hall

Curious to peek into old-style magic and rediscover all the fun it has to offer? This small theater offers an intimate 30 minutes filled with feats of illusion and special effects .

Pick the VIP experience at The Great Magic Hall to see two different magicians in action showcasing the best sleight-of-hand tricks during a thrilling, close-up experience.

Shows are interactive – don’t be surprised if you’re called up to be part of the magical experience – and you’ll be laughing the entire time.

51 – Crystal River

Manatees are a common sight in Florida , but in most places, you have to settle for watching them from afar. Crystal River – known as the manatee capital of the world – is one of the very few places in the state where you can swim with manatees .

Just jump into the water and wait for the gentle giants to approach – naturally curious, they often come over to swimmers or snorkelers on their own for some greet and meet.

Hundreds of manatees arrive at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge during the winter months to escape colder waters, so an encounter is basically guaranteed.

There’s plenty to do around the river as well. Lots of trails to hike , unspoiled forests , golf courses , and some of the country’s best cycling corridors are located here. This is a popular area for kayaking and paddleboarding as well.

• swim with manatees

Save time and money

Hoping to see many of the best tourist attractions in Orlando on your next visit without spending a fortune? The Go Orlando Explorer Pass allows you to choose up to five of your favorite attractions and save up to 35% on top tours and attractions , including airboat tours, the Museum of Illusions, and The Wheel at ICON Park.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our look into everything Orlando has to offer! Have other must-see suggestions? Feel free to let us know in the comments!

64 Best & Fun Things To Do In Orlando (Florida)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 21, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Being one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US , Orlando is a popular vacation destination, packed with tourist places and cool spots to visit – especially amusement parks!

But what is there to do in Orlando besides theme parks?

Is there anything else for the history buffs, the animal lovers, and those at home in nature?

Simply put, the answer is yes!

Here’s our travel guide with our picks for the top 64 fun things to do and places to visit in Orlando, Florida!

Table of Contents

1. Orlando Museum of Art

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

One of the exciting points of interest in this Florida city is the Orlando Museum of Art .

It is the home of a wide range of permanent art collections, from the incredible and much-loved Art of the Ancient Americas to African art, to contemporary pieces.

The museum opened its doors in 1924 in order to encourage love and education regarding art, and it is now one of the region’s main cultural institutions.

Throughout the 20th century, the museum grew and grew, and its architecture gives visitors a glimpse into mid-century aesthetics as created by students of the great Frank Lloyd Wright.

Address:  2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803, United States

2. Madame Tussauds

Few could speak of Orlando without discussing Madame Tussauds .

Not too far from the center of the city, Madame Tussauds is the go-to wax museum, sitting right at ICON Park in a prime location next to the big wheel and other exciting offerings.

Madame Tussauds is always updated, with new figures representing famous personalities added regularly, so there’s sure to be someone recognizable to each member of a family.

Many of the figures are so lifelike that they make for incredible photo opportunities, and favorite spot-on lookalikes include Anne Hathaway, Jackie Chan, Justin Bieber, and Oprah Winfrey.

There are also themed portions of Madame Tussauds that allow you to get up close and personal in fun pop culture scenes right from Orlando, such as Justice League: A Call For Heroes, where you can stand among figures of the actors in their superhero garb.

Address:  8387 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

3. Kennedy Space Center

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The Kennedy Space Center is one of the most fascinating places of interest near Orlando, Florida.

Since 1968, this has been the main launch center for NASA, which makes it an iconic place that can’t be missed.

Admittedly, it can be difficult to visit the center thanks to the long drive and the need for early arrival, but if you’re in Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center is more than worth the trip.

A bus tour allows you to view the grounds, and a visitor complex is full of interesting things to check out.

There are plenty of activities and exhibits to enjoy at the Kennedy Space Center.

The Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit shows off a beautiful shuttle floating in midair, while a Shuttle Launch Experience gives you a chance to feel what it’s like to lift off.

The Vehicle Assembly Building, which is one of the world’s largest buildings, will impress you with its scale and assembly features, too.

Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32899, United States

4. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Jillian Cain Photography / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for more sights to feast your eyes on in Orlando, look no further than the Harry P. Leu Gardens .

These lush botanical gardens were founded by Mr. Leu, an industrialist who built the 50-acre gardens through travel in the 1930s as he brought back exotic, rare, and unique seeds and plants with him.

The gardens aren’t far from downtown Orlando and are a great stop.

The gardens boast semi-tropical and tropical spaces, with shady oaks and camellias providing shade across the pathways.

Different plants begin to bloom all throughout the year, so different visits at different times of the year can get you a completely different landscape!

One of the most fun things to do in Orlando is to go on a guided tour of the gardens and the Leu House Museum.

Of course, with over 230 cultivars and 2,000 plants, there’s no end to the variety of flora that you can view here.

Themed gardens add to the appeal with butterfly gardens, bird gardens, conifer collections, palm gardens, citrus groves, floral clocks, fruit collections, and many more!

Address:  1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803, United States

5. Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

mirsasha / flickr

Taking a trip to the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is one of the coolest things to do in the vicinity of Orlando’s Winter Park.

The museum itself first came to life in 1942, though it saw its first few decades in a different location. 

In 1957, Jeanette Genuine McKean, the founder of the museum, purchased a wide range of items left behind in the ruined Laurelton Hall, left destroyed after the passing of owner and designer Louis Comfort Tiffany.

With its bigger collection, the museum gained more popularity, and in the 1990s, it made its way over to its current location.

Now, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is among the best and most fun spots in Orlando, Florida for history buffs and anyone who appreciates an old-fashioned aesthetic.

It has the world’s most complete Tiffany collection, ranging from paintings to stained glass, from furniture to jewelry, from mosaics to enamels, and even from lamps to a recreated chapel built-in 1893!

Address:  445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789, United States

6. Blue Spring State Park

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Blue Spring State Park is among the most well-loved vacation spots in Orlando, and for a reason!

It’s a manatee refuge, and in winter months, it’s a must-see as manatees make their way upwards into the spring in the northern portion of the lively city, leading up to the St. John’s River further into Florida.

Visitors often walk along the boardwalk, which spans about a third of a mile.

From here, it’s easy to see these beautiful, slightly bumbling creatures move along, providing great photo opportunities.

But even in warmer months, Blue Spring State Park is worth a visit.

Water sports of all kinds can be partaken in.

Scuba divers are often seen exploring caves in the spring, swimmers can enjoy crystal clear 73-degree waters year-round, and canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks are available for rent.

There are 51 campsites across the state park, on top of 6 rental cabins and multiple picnic tables.

Address:  2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763, United States

7. Amway Center

Miosotis_Jade / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Orlando, Florida, as a sports fan, then you simply can’t miss out on watching Orlando Magic in their element.

Amway Center is the home for this basketball team.

This venue hosts 18,846 seats and boasts a tower of 55 meters that is one of the best known landmarks of the city.

There’s also a huge LED screen that faces the highway, showcasing what the game has to offer.

Apart from just competitive, exciting NCAA games, the Amway Center also doubles as a popular venue for concerts.

It has served as a stage for great performers like Sara Bareilles, Khalid, Florence and the Machine, the Black Keys, and even the Jonas Brothers, all just in 2019.

Address:  400 W Church St #200, Orlando, FL 32801, United States

8. Old Town

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Old Town is located in Kissimmee , a mix of a live amusement park, old-fashioned charm, and a good deal of shopping opportunities.

Kissimmee itself is worth a trip when you’re looking for where to go when you’re in Orlando, but it’s Old Town that is one of the most popular spots in Kissimmee.

Old Town spans about 18 acres wide over four blocks, filled with streets of brick-lined with lovely trees.

It resembles a traditional, old-fashioned look reminiscent of an older Florida.

For excitement, you can head to a magic show, visit the huge 26-meter Ferris wheel, watch a movie at a family movie screening, play at a video arcade, sing your heart out in karaoke, listen to live music, attend a car show, or traverse a haunted house. 

Many places to eat can be found across this little spot, making up some of the 70 outlets (which includes non-chain souvenir and trinket stores) in the streets.

Just a short distance from Disney on Route 192, Old Town has it all.

Address:  5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746, United States

9. International Drive

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No matter where you are in Orlando, you’re never too far from International Drive , which is almost akin to Florida’s version of the Las Vegas Strip.

All of the fun parts of Orlando seem to converge or at least coalesce around this one long road, with the main water parks, theme parks, and resorts only a short distance away.

You’ll never run out of what to see in this leg of Orlando, with multiple spots to check out, including themed restaurants, big tourist draws, hotels, nightclubs, outlet malls, and more.

Better yet, International Drive is still growing and getting bigger year after year.

You can bet that there will be more offerings still to come.

Address: 9150 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

10. Bok Tower Gardens

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While you’re looking for things to do in downtown Orlando, why not stop by the Bok Tower Gardens in downtown Lakeland instead?

The majestic Bok Tower – specifically the Singing Tower – rises up above acres of beautiful scenery in the quiet citrus hills of Lake Wales. 

The Singing Tower and its imposing gothic look are undeniably attractive, and it can be fun to stroll through the many acres of manicured, well-kept gardens and winding trails and paths as you listen to carillon concert music or attend the concerts yourself.

The Bok Tower Gardens first came to life in the 1920s under the funding of Edward W Bok, a magazine editor who commissioned Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to turn a huge and barren sandhill into the most beautiful spot in not just Orlando, but the whole country.

With the aid of 1,000 oaks, 10,000 azaleas, fruit shrubs, flowers, palms, and more, it’s hard to imagine the Bok Tower Gardens as the arid stretch they once were.

Address:  1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

11. Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Scott Smith / flickr

As we all know, a trip to Orlando, Florida is not complete without a visit to a Disney site, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios earns its stop in the top 10 tourist attractions that Orlando has to offer.

The site is themed on golden age Hollywood, with sprinkles of show business, idealized ideas of the fancy city’s magic, and Los Angeles flair all over.

A stroll through Disney’s Hollywood Studios will take you through such mock-up places as Sunset Boulevard, Toy Story Land, Echo Park, and even Hollywood Boulevard.

There are also dedicated spaces like the Animator space, which showcases some of Disney’s most loved animators and the MuppetVision 3D show, which has hilarious and delightful performances in a huge auditorium.

Other places of note are the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror ride, a motion simulator in a 3D Star Wars universe called The Adventures Continue and a half-hour version of a Broadway classic in Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage.

Address:  351 S Studio Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, United States

12. Discovery Cove

Chad Sparkes / flickr

Discovery Cove is one of the most fun, must do Orlando attractions, especially if you have kids with you on your Orlando trip.

It’s almost like visiting an island resort, but right in Orlando itself.

Discovery Cove is full of exciting and relaxing things that you can do.

You can take dips in pools or lagoons, snorkel or swim with marine wildlife, feed tropical birds in a free-flight aviary, partake in great food and drink, go for a delightful underwater walk, and much more.

Daily attendance is limited, so Discovery Cove is never too overcrowded.

Address:  6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821, United States

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13. Lake Eola Park

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Lake Eola Park is a favorite among the tourist places in Orlando.

It’s one of the best places in this Florida city to go sightseeing.

The serene environment of Lake Eola Park began a long time ago when settlers came by the water their cattle, and now the beautiful centennial Fountain and the soothing atmosphere make for a great stop during an Orlando trip.

Runners, joggers, and people enjoying a stroll often visit Lake Eola Park to unwind, and some head out on paddle boats shaped like swans to join swans in the 23-acre lake.

Here’s a bit of trivia: the lake is actually a sinkhole, though you wouldn’t be able to tell just by looking at it!

The lovely fountain is decorated with LED lights that make for quite a treat when it’s dark out.

The banks are equally attractive, with neatly trimmed grass, pretty flower beds, a paved path, and plenty of trees like cypresses and palms to shade the way.

The Walt Disney Amphitheater sits on the western side of Lake Eola Park, putting on outdoor movies, concerts, and even plays.

Then, on Sundays, the south-east of the park boasts the farmers’ market, which has more than 50 vendors selling wares.

Address:  512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801, United States

14. Fun Spot America

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We all know that Orlando is packed with huge theme parks with big company names, but Fun Spot America is a must-see simply because it brings one back to the more old-fashioned, less corporate type of amusement park.

It provides free admission without skimping on great rides, which makes it among the nicest places to visit in Orlando for some inexpensive excitement.

Some big, much-loved rides in this Florida branch of this theme park are the White Lightning, a wooden roller coaster that has a 20-meter drop and a 44 mile per hour maximum speed, and the SkyCoaster, purchased from MGM Grand Adventures and standing 76 meters high!

Of course, there are also classic rides – fairground rides, games, carousels, bumper cars, go-kart tracks, and much more.

Essentially, there is plenty to be done and enjoyed, even for the whole family!

Address:  5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

15. Cornell Fine Arts Museum

Joe Flood / flickr

The Cornell Fine Arts Museum is home to some of the oldest, most revered, and most sophisticated art collections that Florida has to offer.

It’s in the general vicinity of Lake Virginia, situated within the oldest college in the city, Rollin’s College.

More than 5,000 exhibits live and breathe in the George D. and Harriet W. Cornell Fine Arts Museum, including collections of European Old Masters, contemporary American works, archeological artifacts, photographs, and more.

Thomas Moran, Henri Matisse, and even Pablo Picasso have works displayed here.

Interactive events, such as events for kids and scavenger hunts, make Cornell Fine Arts Museum among the most educational and fascinating places to go for adults and kids alike.

A gift shop provides wonderful souvenirs, too.

On top of all that, entrance is free of charge and comes with a half-hour tour!

Address:  1000 Holt Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789, United States

16. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

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SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium provides incredible excitement for all ages as the only international aquarium chain-style exhibit in all of Florida.

For lovers of marine life, this might be the best place to head to in the whole city.

As you explore the aquarium, you’ll get treated to a 360-degree underwater “tunnel” for viewing a wide array of marine animals.

Fish, turtles, eels, and sharks swim through the sparkling water, lit just right to give you the sensation of being underwater and walking among the creatures under the sea.

But that’s not all SEA LIFE has to offer.

Dive shows are put on regularly following a timetable, so you can catch interesting showcases.

Presenters dive into the tanks and perform all sorts of demonstrations with the wildlife.

There are also touch tanks where visitors can reach out and feel starfish and other similar creatures.

SEA LIFE also has a celebrity of its own – Ted the sea turtle, known for aiding conservationists in their efforts to help sea turtles break free of nets using the Turtle Excluder Device.

You can visit him while you’re here!

Address:  8449 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

17. ICON Park

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A place you shouldn’t miss while you’re in Orlando this weekend is ICON Park , specifical thanks to its mind-boggling 400-foot tall observation wheel, ICON Orlando.

The wheel isn’t just the tallest in Florida, but the highest across the East Coast, and it’s a mix of luxury and fun that many love.

Each pod in the wheel is air-conditioned and offers a gorgeous 360-degree view of the panorama of the state.

Many people hop in just before sunset so they get to see the stunning city lights, so if you’re planning to go, tonight – or any night! – is preferable.

There are 30 capsules, and each one can fit 15 passengers.

From your bird’s eye view, you’d be able to see the Universal Resort, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, International Drive, and even the Kennedy Space Center if the night is clear!

Address:  8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

18. Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort is probably one of the most famous locations in the world – and likely the biggest reason why you’d be visiting Orlando in the first place!

Located in Florida, the Walt Disney World Resort is really a combination of two water parks and four theme parks in a single place.

If you have a family, visiting it is one of the best things to do in Orlando – it has something for just about everyone.

Visitors can scoot through EPCOT on a Segway, or try out a backstage tour after enjoying the various facilities the parks have the offer.

There are also plenty of resorts and hotels, should you wish to spend the night.

The place is also home to four golf courses, a selection of entertainment and dining options, and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Address:  Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL 32830, United States

19. Kelly Park

Nicole Glass Photography / Shutterstock

Located on the outskirts of Orlando, Kelly Park is at the very peak of the list of tourist attractions in the state.

And it’s not hard to see why – this beautiful park is full of fun opportunities for activities like swimming, camping, and hiking.

There’s even a full-service concession stand for snacks and meals!

Visitors can check out one of the most famous hot springs in Orlando, or go exploring one of the many trails available here.

You might want to ask regulars what to see and do – it may be hard to decide between bird watching or tubing! 

It’s a good idea to go there early to pay the $5 entry fee – the park tends to reach a full capacity of 280 vehicles by mid-morning.

If you’re one of the lucky 50 vehicles enough to get an afternoon pass at the park entrance, you can go in after 1 pm.

Address:  400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL 32712, United States

20. Magic Kingdom Park

Inside the Magic / flickr

If you’re sightseeing in Orlando, why would you miss out on one of the biggest Orlando attractions in the state?

Located in Florida, Magic Kingdom Park is one of the four Disney theme parks available in the region.

This was the original park that started it all.

Designed and planned by Walt Disney himself, this park opened after his death in 1971.

These days, it is home to some of the most famous characters and parades in the world!

Drop by to see the Cinderella Castle that has become the icon of the company, or explore the six different themed lands that make up the park.

When you’re done watching the fireworks, consider dining at the various cafes and restaurants in the park.

Or bring home a souvenir from the themed shops and boutiques!

All in all, this park in Orlando is where dreams come true.

Address:  1180 Seven Seas Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836, United States

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21. Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show

Have you ever considered enjoying a comedy show while having dinner?

This fun comedy show in Orlando, Florida is here to whet your appetite.

Drop by at night to experience a show that places you directly in the center of the action – all while you’re enjoying your dinner.

Hosted by only a single man named Tony Brent, this 90-minute, family-friendly show is a high-energy experience full of improvisational comedy, impersonation, vanishing acts, and even mind-reading.

The show is hosted in a compact venue, which ensures that everyone gets a clear view of the stage.

The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner charges $20 for children and $30 for adult – a ticket price that includes dinner and unlimited beverages.

If you’ve got children with you on your trip to Orlando, consider dropping by this show for dinner!

Address:  9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

22. Winter Park

For one of the more unique places to visit near Orlando, consider Winter Park.

This suburban city was originally established near the end of the 19th as a winter getaway for the rich.

These days, it is full of upmarket shops and parks and is home to the Winter Park History Museum.

As befitting its reputation, Winter Park is full of museums and art institutions.

Consider partaking in one of the many cultural activities the city has year-round, or check out all of the museums and lakeside mansions that sprawl across the city’s landscape!

If you think the best use of your time involves staying outdoors, Winter Park is home to a network of canals and lakes that are worth exploring too.

Originally designed to prevent flooding, they now form a much-loved part of the landscape!

23. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

For those who love golfing, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf should top your list of places to see in Orlando, Florida.

With its two eighteen-hole courses and unique challenges, this fun getaway is perfect for anyone who wants to try their hand at premier mini golf.

Its lush tropical vegetation even ensures you will be protected from the harsh Orlando sun!

These themed courses feature all sorts of decorations, from sunken ships, rope bridges, to wooden walkways, waterfalls, and even a pirate dungeon!

Beginners may prefer the more forgiving Captain’s Course, while more technical players might find Blackbeard’s Challenge to be more enticing.

Despite being near the busy International Drive, the courses themselves are quiet and peaceful.

The rates are affordable too, sitting at $11.50 per child and $12.50 per adult.

You can even stay the night at the course if you wish!

Address:  8501 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

24. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

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Besides theme parks, Florida is famous for its marshy spots and mangrove forests- and Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures is here to capitalize on that!

Just four hours away from Orlando is the Everglades National Park – a 32-acre lakeside park that is home to all sorts of wildlife, like alligators and turtles!

Visitors get to sit on an airboat skimming above the water at an exhilarating 45 mph, all in the search of Orlando’s native creatures.

Families seeking an adrenaline rush will find these trips to be perfect – though if that is not your cup of tea, you can also consider renting a bike to explore the park instead.

Sunset cruises and private trips are also possible options for those seeking a more intimate experience.

For the more intrepid explorers, there are sessions that allow you to try driving the airboat yourself!

Address:  2001 E Southport Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34746, United States

25. Gatorland

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For most people, trying to wrestle an alligator in Orlando is not a high priority.

But wouldn’t that be the most memorable part of your trip to Florida?

Even if that isn’t your cup of tea, plenty of fun things to do in Orlando still involve alligators – and this wildlife preserve is no exception to the rule!

There are plenty of activities available in Gatorland , which claims to be the “alligator capital of the world”.

Visitors to this preserve in Orlando can opt for the Trainer-for-a-Day program, which allows you to feed baby alligators.

You can also hop onto a 30mph zip-line that crosses over the Nile crocodiles’ enclosure or check out the Floridian snakes up close.

Additionally, Gatorland is home to the world’s largest collection of white leucistic alligators – a rare and unique sight that will surely stick in your mind for years to come!

Address:  14501 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837, United States

26. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not

Located in downtown Orlando, Florida is a building that carries a name you might be familiar with – Ripley’s Believe It Or Not .

This “Odditorium” is home to a cool collection of strange oddities and rare items, all contained within a building that covers about 10,000 square feet.

Don’t be fooled by the building’s appearance – it is not actually falling into a sinkhole!

Exploring this building and its sixteen themed galleries is best reserved for a slow, lazy afternoon.

Escape the midday Orlando heat and duck into this building to see items like a vampire killing kit, licorice sticks, a shrunken head, a Tibetan skull, and even a Beyoncé portrait made entirely of candy!

Pictures are allowed in this building, so feel free to take plenty of photos of you and your family during your self-guided tour.

It will certainly make your trip to Orlando worthwhile!

Address:  8201 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

27. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

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Located in Orlando, Florida is Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – a glass-fronted building that opened in 2014.

Since then, it has played host to a string of award-winning Broadway shows within the confines of its three theatres, in addition to being the home of Orlando Ballet.

If you have a theatre lover in your group and need some activities, consider adding a show to your list of things to do in downtown Orlando.

Thanks to the center staging over 300 shows each year, there is bound to be something for everyone.

If Broadway isn’t your cup of tea, you can still enjoy world-famous comedians, touring record artists, operas, family shows, symphonies, and even dance.

The center also offers visitors plenty of fun opportunities to interact with stage performers – including dance masterclasses and its PechaKucha Nights!

Address:  445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, United States

28. Chocolate Kingdom Orlando

Chocolate Kingdom

One of the best things to do in Orlando, Florida is to visit Chocolate Kingdom and check out their interactive tour.

There, you can find out just how chocolate is created – from bean all the way to bar!

Join one of the group tours for a fun adventure through the various sections Chocolate Kingdom has.

Start your journey at the Cacao Tree Greenhouse to learn about cacao beans, before moving through other locales like the Chocolate Museum, Mystery of Chocolate, Mystical River of Chocolate, and Bean-to-Bar Factory.

This 45-minute interactive tour lets you get involved in making your own customized chocolate bar – and you have the option to buy it as a souvenir!

Tours start at 11 am and take place every hour until closing time at 5 pm.

You can choose to book a tour in advance, or simply show up for one of the hourly tours!

Address:  9901 Hawaiian Ct, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

29. Spook Hill

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Still need stuff to do while in Orlando?

Why not drop by Spook Hill for a really neat optical illusion?

Located near Orlando, Spook Hill is rumored to be haunted.

Whether the locals should be trusted remains to be seen, but the optical illusion the hill provides is sure to delight your children!

Spook Hill offers one of the best physical optical illusions in the state.

Simply drive your car up the hill until you find a sign that tells visitors the story of the hill.

Follow the instructions, and behold how your car seems to start moving uphill of its own accord!

Address:  Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

30. Blue Man Group

The Blue Man Group is one of the many famous Orlando attractions that promises fun, excitement, and entertainment that can’t be found anywhere else.

Hosted by Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, the Blue Man Group is composed of various talented performers from all over the world that participate in the famous Blue Man Show.

Adults and children alike will be amazed by this family-friendly performance, which combines art, science, technology, music, and even laughter to amaze and dazzle audiences.

Not a single word of dialogue is ever uttered, which means that the language barrier is not an issue for anyone wanting to enjoy the show.

In addition to that, Universal Orlando Resort is home to all sorts of bars and restaurants.

This means that you can always enjoy a meal and a drink before, during, and after the performance for the perfect outing with friends at night!

Address:  6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

Going on a road trip around Florida? Why not check out some of the incredible things to do in Fort Lauderdale  & some of the fun things to do in Clearwater ?

31. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

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Nature lovers, take note – if you’re ever at a loss for where to visit next in Orlando, one of the best events to attend while site seeing in the state is the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival !

This annual festival is hosted in Disney World’s Epcot Center in Orlando, Florida, and is home to some magnificent sights.

As you stroll through the topiary gardens, you will find this festival to be a feast for the eyes.

Over a hundred topiary displays, exhibits, and gardens are available here – with some even shaped like some popular Disney characters!

There are plenty of stalls that sell all sorts of botanically-inspired snacks as well, along with other foodstuffs like sushi and snacks.

Much of the festival is divided into themed sections for different countries, allowing you to experience a wide variety of flowers and plants.

There is even a magical garden for you to explore!

Address: 200 Epcot Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32830, United States

32. Universal’s Islands of Adventure

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If you’ve ever found yourself asking what to do in Orlando, you might want to consider this incredible theme park.

Located in Orlando, Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure promises fun and excitement for the whole family with their themed islands and jaw-dropping rides.

Families and children will enjoy the various attractions that this theme park will provide – from the dinosaurs of Jurassic Park to the fight against evil on Marvel Super Hero Island.

Another core attraction of this park is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which allows fans to step into the world of Harry Potter and its many locales!

As an added bonus, this theme park is connected with Universal Orlando Resort – meaning you can still enjoy the various hotels and spas the resort has to offer, without stepping away from the magic!

Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

33. Randall Knife Museum

Randall Knife Museum

One of the top places to see in Orlando is the Randall Knife Museum .

Located in Orlando, Florida, this museum is dedicated to the knife-making history of the Randall family – a story that began in 1936 when Bo Randall decided to craft himself a knife.

The family-owned business has continued to make knives since Bo Randall’s passing in 1989, fashioning handmade knives that bedazzle enthusiasts – all from a quiet building on Orange Blossom Trail.

Next to the factory is the family home, which houses one of the largest knife collections in the world.

For those who have a love of history, antiquities, and all things sharp – this may just be the destination for you.

The side-by-side museum, factory, and shop is marked by a small sign that’s easy to miss, so keep an eye out for it when you go to visit!

Address:  4857 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32839, United States

34. Orlando Cat Cafe 

One of the fun places to go in Orlando, Florida is the Orlando Cat Cafe .

This cafe is home to all sorts of delicious baked goods and paninis and can be found in the town center.

The unique selling point of this cafe, however, is its cats.

You’re invited to buy a cup of coffee or tea, a pastry, and then sit down in the main dining portion and watch the cats lounging about from behind the protection of the glass.

This is perfect for those who want to enjoy the company of a cat but may have allergies.

When you’re ready to play with them, simply pay a small fee to enter the cat space for your destressing session!

If you happen to fall in love with any of the cats in the cafe, there is some good news for you.

All the cats come from SPCA Florida, meaning that they are adoptable and in need of a loving home!

Address:  532 Cagan Park Ave suite 201-203, Clermont, FL 34714, United States

35. IFly Orlando Indoor Skydiving

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If you’re an adrenaline junkie, pay close attention.

One of the best things you can get in Orlando is a simulated skydiving experience – all in the safety of the iFly Orlando Indoor Skydiving center!

The innovative wind-tunnel technology makes the experience safe for children as young as 3 – though you will still need the proper equipment and training.

Luckily, both will be provided in the form of a flight suit, a helmet, a pair of goggles, and a personal flight instructor.

Guests will be taught proper body positioning before entering the wind tunnel – with an instructor in tow for continued guidance.

The actual skydiving simulation only lasts 60 seconds, but you can choose a package that lets you go into the wind tunnel multiple times.

For first-timers, the total experience from beginning to end will last an average of an hour and a half.

Address:  8969 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

36. Wekiwa Springs State Park

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One of the must-see Orlando destinations includes the Wekiwa Springs State Park – a wilderness reserve that spans 7,000 acres and is home to the source of the Wekiva River.

Known to never have been rerouted or dammed, the pristine waters of this 16-mile river promises all sorts of kayaking and canoeing fun!

For those who would rather spend some time relaxing, other points of interest include the famous spring.

Fed by two sources, the spring contributes an astonishing 163 million liters to the might of the river.

Visitors can also take a dip in the half-acre pool, which stays at a comfortable 71°F all year round.

The park is also home to the undergrowth and woodlands famous to Orlando, which visitors should consider checking out if they’re interested in seeing the alligators that are native to Florida!

Address:  1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712, United States

37. Lakeridge Winery and Vineyard

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

This bit of fun is best left for adults.

While Lakeridge Winery and Vineyard doesn’t promise the usual high-energy excitement you’d expect of Orlando destinations, it still showcases a side of Florida that is just as incredible.

Located on a sprawling country estate, the premium winery is surrounded by 80 acres of beautiful scenery.

Visitors can go for free wine-tasting tours 7 days a week, and attend all sorts of wine-related festivals hosted at Lakeridge year round.

And who knows – maybe you’ll learn something about wine, and go home with a bottle of premium vintage to enjoy as a result!

Address:  19239 US-27, Clermont, FL 34715, United States

38. Orlando Science Center

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If you’re coming along with kids, taking a trip to the Orlando Science Center isn’t just educational, but also a cool experience that people of all ages are sure to love.

A wide range of exciting, jaw-dropping exhibits showcases all things scientific in fun and engaging ways.

This science center is privately owned and is akin to a museum.

Its life began in Florida 1955, though it is its mid-90s expansion that really brought it more fame, and it’s now one of the top things to do in Orlando.

Each admission also comes with shows that you can watch at the 3D Adventure Theater or the Dr. Phillips CineDome.

Each portion of the science center provides something interesting.

On Level 1, you’ll find NatureWorks, which promotes a healthy recreation of the natural habitats of Florida, including beautiful coral reefs full of fish, mangroves full of reptiles, cypress swamps, and more.

Then, on level 2, there is the Kinetic Zone, which is packed with hands-on exhibits discussing concepts such as magnetism, gravity, and electricity. 

Higher up on level 4 is Our Planet, an interactive exhibit that illustrates the Solar System in all its weird and wonderful glory, even providing Hubble Space Telescope images straight from NASA!

The same floor also has DinoDigs, which allows kids to dig through a giant pit to find fossils of all kinds!

Address:  777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803, United States

39. Mennello Museum of American Art

If you’re a fan of art and history, the Mennello Museum of American Art is one of the Orlando attractions you shouldn’t miss.

It has some of the most loved paintings and is marked with prestige and fame, including a famed permanent collection of Earl Cunningham, a self-taught artist whose works are showcased beautifully in this Orlando museum.

It’s not just paintings at this museum, though.

Drawings, statues, and even hand-blown glass are carefully arranged throughout the premises.

Seasonal exhibits, such as the Folk Art Festival, add livelier flavor during certain times of the year, and regular free admission days are available for families every second Sunday, complete with a make-and-take crafting space.

The museum also offers a nice gift shop that shells jewelry, crafts, memorabilia, souvenirs, and books.

The Mennello Museum of American Art also offers a slice of paradise outside, merging with the paths of the Orlando Urban Trail.

This “paradise” is none other than The Sculpture Garden, which is packed with statues and sculpted art of all kinds decorating and hiding among the foliage, flora, and natural beauty.

Don’t forget to check out The Mayor, a Spanish moss-covered oak tree that is 350 years old!

Address:  900 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803, United States

If you have more time, don’t forget to check out some amazing things to do in Tampa  & fun things to do in Tallahassee !

40. Nona Adventure Park

It can get pretty hot in Orlando, Florida – and the Nona Adventure Park is one of the most loved of Orlando’s fun tourist attractions to help beat the sweltering heat!

The water park features a huge inflatable obstacle course that is essentially a way to float and have a blast at the same time.

Close to the water course, you can find a cable park, which takes you through a pulley system-based wakeboard that lets you hit the surf in an amazing way.

The cable park has two tracks – one for beginner to intermediate wakeboard surfers, and one for experienced riders who aim for the challenge of a 36 mph speed over 750 meters! 

If you need to return to land, there’s a bistro to dine at and a climbing tower to bring you above ground for a bit.

It’s not far from the airport, either, so it’s a great stop that’s not hard to get to.

Address:  14086 Centerline Dr, Orlando, FL 32827, United States

41. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve

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The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is a wildlife haven packed with 440 acres of sights to see, and it’s among the greatest places to check out in Orlando for nature-lovers.

Made up of wilderness biomes including pine flatwoods, marshes, cypress swamps, scrub, and bay swamps, the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve boasts 3.6-mile hiking trails and beautiful flora and fauna all around.

All sorts of animals can be found in this nature preserve year-round, including bald eagles, American alligators, ospreys, river otters, eastern screen owls, and gopher tortoises.

The variety of fauna really makes it feel like you’re no longer in Orlando!

While you’re in this lovely place of tranquility in Orlando, you should also stop by the Vera Carer Environmental Center, which provides information regarding the wildlife of the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, interactive and live displays, and even taxidermies!

Address:  8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32836, United States

42. The Florida Mall

Orlando is surprisingly somewhat known for its good shopping opportunities, and one such opportunity lies in The Florida Mall .

This huge shopping complex is one of the largest one-story shopping centers not just in Orlando, but in all of America – and this makes it among the highest on the list of things to see for shopaholics!

The mall covers over 167,000 square meters of land, with over 250 outlets for dining and retail.

Popular chain stores like H&M, Zara, Macy’s, and Victoria’s Secret all have homes here, but there are also exclusive shops to add to the fun.

These exclusive stores include The Disney Store, the American Girl doll shop, Carlo’s Bakery, and M&M’s World.

Food offerings are also great here.

You can find virtually every type of cuisine, ranging from fast food like Five Guys to foreign meals like the Hocca Bar for Brazilian food and outlets for sushi.

There’s a reason this shopping complex attracts over 20 million visitors on an annual basis, after all!

Address:  8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809, United States

43. Ocala National Forest

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Visiting the Ocala National Forest is a definite must-do while you’re in Orlando, especially if you’re a big nature-lover.

When it comes to vacation spots, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one in Florida that can surpass the wonders of the natural landscape of the forest, spanning 383,000 acres and boasting over 600 springs, lakes, and rivers. 

This Orlando site offers a number of exciting ventures, allowing visitors to go horseback riding, snorkeling, swimming, and diving, as well as the normal, simple acts of cycling and hiking.

Trails can be very fascinating, and there are more than a hundred to traverse, including ones that go past homesteads from the 1800s and some that pass by sinkholes.

One of the best parts of Ocala National Forest is the Alexander Springs Recreation Area, which promises 72-degree waters no matter what time of year it is.

Beautiful flora in the form of cabbage palms, maple trees, and sweetgum trees surround these springs, making for a lovely and serene environment.

There is also the Salt Springs Recreation Area which, true to its name, has a spring filled with salty water, naturally formed from fissures formed deep in the earth. 

Address: 40929 State Road 19, Umatilla, FL 32784, United States

44. Celebration

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Celebration is a rather unique name for a town, and its title is rooted in fascinating history.

The Walt Disney Company intentionally designed this small town to form a quaint, quiet community that gives Orlando visitors a taste of small town, old-fashioned America, right near all the theme parks!

Upon strolling through this special Florida town, you’ll find architecture reminiscent of the pleasant wonder of classic Disney movies, specialty boutiques and dining establishments, and even some special events that are among the many fun things to do in Orlando.

Though there is no obvious link between Celebration and Disney, the whimsical air and nostalgic atmosphere certainly do it plenty of favors!

45. Crayola Experience

Crayola Experience Orlando

Nestled in the depths of The Florida Mall in Orlando is Crayola Experience – an indoor theme park named after the famous crayon brand itself!

Here, you will find 26 different hands-on activities that are sure to fascinate young children – for example, coloring at the Ultimate Coloring Station!

There are still plenty of points of interest for older members of the family too!

Kids and adults alike can try their hand at painting with melted crayons, or check out the Color Magic augmented reality displays to see how you can bring your own artwork to life.

The theme park is also home to Bluetiful – the largest crayon in the world!

While there’s plenty of souvenirs and memorabilia available at the Crayola Store, the best possible gift you can probably get for yourself is your very own personalized Crayola crayon!

Just ask the resident crayonologist for help, before leaving the place with a one-of-a-kind crayon!

Traveling around Florida? Check out our lists of fun things to do in Miami  & things to do in Saint Augustine !

46. Global Convergence Sculpture 

Global Convergence Sculpture

Staring at a sculpture isn’t most people’s idea of a fun time, but the Global Convergence Sculpture located in Orlando, Florida may be the most favorable exception to the rule.

Transparent blue panels line this aluminum globe to give it the appearance of an aquarium.

Each panel is individually lined with printed fish designed to look exactly as they do in life.

Together with the shifting light patterns projected onto the inside of the sculpture with internal LED lights, and the entire “aquarium” almost seems alive with a school of native shoal bass.

It’s important to note that this freshwater fish will vanish should the environment take a turn for the worse.

As a result, the goal of this sculpture – and several others like it – is to raise awareness on the need for sustainability and environmentalism.

So if you ever ask “What to do” while in Orlando, why not check out this incredible sculpture to appreciate its message?

Address: 65 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801, United States

47. American Ghost Adventures

There’s plenty of ghost stories to be found throughout Florida – and Orlando is no exception.

So it should be no surprise that American Ghost Adventures exists to capitalize on this history.

Join one of their eight “Ghost Adventure” tours, where you will be led by local guides through famous cemeteries and dark city streets.

Two of these interactive ghost tours are located in Orlando itself!

One of them is a walking tour, while the other is a tour of a haunted pub.

Tour guides are often knowledgeable experts on the paranormal, and may even ask you to help them “communicate” with all sorts of presences as an interactable part of the experience.

Several types of tours are available, from family-friendly ones to private tours.

There is even an at-home “investigation”, should you want such an option!

All in all, this is an experience you won’t want to miss while in Orlando.

Address:  129 W Church St 3rd floor, Orlando, FL 32801, United States

48. Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe

Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe

If you’re Catholic, then this church may already be on the top of your list.

Even if you aren’t religious, it is undeniable that one of the best tourist attractions in Orlando is the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe .

Consecrated in 1979 to service the massive influx of tourists into Florida after the opening of Disneyworld in Orlando, the church is a beautiful Roman-style building flanked by large naves and decorated with an arcade of arches.

It is also capable of seating 2,000 worshippers at once.

If you’re not too interested in attending service, the church also has a Shrine Museum full of various paintings and statues that date back from the 1500s.

There is also a lovely rosary garden for you to spend a quiet moment in, should you wish to do so.

Address:  8300 Vineland Ave, Orlando, FL 32821, United States

49. Legoland Florida

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Some of the most famous Orlando attractions are theme parks.

So if you’re already in Florida and are looking for fun, it’s likely you’ll be already considering Legoland Florida – and for a good reason! 

Originally the Cypress Gardens, this 150-acre theme park still retains its historical landscaping and is full of green spaces.

The park itself is split up into multiple lands that are crammed full of shows and rides.

Visitors can check out scale models of famous monuments and landscapes – from the Kennedy Space Center to locations in the Star Wars universe!

Kids between the ages of 6 and 13 will enjoy learning how to drive in Legoland’s Driving School, while families will enjoy the welcome respite Legoland Water Park offers from the heat!

Address:  1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, United States

There’s more to Florida! Check out some cool things to do in Sarasota  & things to do in Pensacola !

50. Escapology Orlando

Escapology Orlando

If you’re looking for a fun thing to do in Orlando this weekend, Escapology Orlando is a must do.

Escapology tests your puzzle-solving and lateral thinking with its 6 game rooms.

All rooms are historically themed and set in various locations, and carry their own stories – from trying to solve the Cuban Missile Crisis to dealing with a shootout in Arizona!

Each room can handle 2 to 6 players and is ranked by difficulty.

Larger groups can split themselves into two smaller groups and challenge each other on who is the faster problem solver!

Players who struggle with puzzles need not worry – each group is given the option to ask a Game Master for help at any time.

It’s a good idea to book online, as walk-in prices tend to be a little more expensive.

Prices start at $26 for a shared session, while private sessions will start at $30 instead.

Address:  11951 International Dr c3, Orlando, FL 32821, United States

51. Universal Citywalk 

When it comes to Florida, the first thing you would think of is retirement homes.

Today, however, the state is famous for a plethora of attractions – especially if you are to visit Orlando!

Universal CityWalk may be a gateway to the more famous Universal Studios, but it is so much more than that.

This district is jam-packed full of dining and shopping experiences – and unlike Universal Studios, the entry cost is the low price of free!

In addition to that, plenty of events and festivals are hosted here throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar.

When you’re done having a meal at one of the various cafes and restaurants that line this place, stick around to check out the many fascinating and exciting spots that Citywalk offers.

The famous Blue Man Group performs here, and you can easily check out one of the many nightspots that stay open until 2 am.

If that’s not quite your speed, perhaps consider trying mini-golf here instead!

52. Tupperware Confidence Center

Tupperware Confidence Center

Checking out a building dedicated to Tupperwares doesn’t seem like one of the best things to see in Orlando, Florida – but the Tupperware Confidence Center is more than just a Tupperware museum.

It is also dedicated to celebrating the women pivotal to its history and features a tribute to Brownie Wise – the woman responsible for making Tupperware the household name it is today.

As a result, visitors to the Tupperware Confidence Center will be greeted by its campaign to empower women, and the story of how the product was sold and got famous.

The museum also showcases the history of the containers and the vintage machinery and products made throughout history.

Entry is free for everyone, and the museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm, so there’s plenty of time to check it out without needing to pay a cent all week, even this weekend!

Address: 14901 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837, United States

53. Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens

Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens

Orlando has a lot more to offer besides theme parks – like this cool garden!

The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens is full of sculptures that were produced by sculptor Albin Polasek across the entirety of his lifetime.

Visitors to this property in Orlando, Florida will be able to explore the beautiful landscapes and the sculptures found all over the place.

There is also a butterfly garden to explore, in addition to the property’s two water gardens.

Consider booking a guided tour to get the full experience and history of the place!

You can also explore the historical home of the sculptor himself, which has since been changed into a museum.

It’s also a pretty good idea to be a regular visitor – the exhibitions in the galleries are always showcasing new artwork, so there’s always something new to see!

Address:  633 Osceola Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789, United States

54. Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp

Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp

Believers of the metaphysical, take note – one of the top Orlando attractions you can find is the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp – bearer of the title ‘World’s Psychic Capital’.

Located just half an hour away from Orlando by car, the camp was originally founded by George P. Colby.

Despite being open to the public, the camp is really a small residence of psychics and mediums – about 55 houses are private.

Nevertheless, it is home to an assortment of workshops and classes that are designed to help you get in contact with your spiritual side.

You can even stay the night if you so wish!

So if you’re looking for a fun, quirky experience in Orlando, why not get a psychic reading from this place?

Address:  1112 Stevens St, Lake Helen, FL 32744, United States

55. The Holy Land Experience

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Religious or not, you gotta admit this is a cool experience to get in Orlando of all places. The Holy Land Experience is a theme park that strives to recreate the biblical experience – all within Florida, where it’s an easy drive away from Orlando.

Stepping into the theme park instantly transports visitors into a recreation of 1st century Judea, crammed full of what owners and operators that the Trinity Broadcasting Network claims to be exact replicas of important locations and structures from the Holy Land.

Key points of interest include various temples, the Qumran Dead Sea Caves, the Wilderness Tabernacle, and even a model of Jerusalem!

Locations aside, there’s also plenty of things to do here – reenactments and performances abound, from participating in a recreation of The Last Supper to reenactments of Jesus’s crucifixion.

Whatever you choose to do, it is sure to be an interactive learning experience!

Address:  4655 Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32811, United States

56. Revolution Off Road

Revolution Off Road

Looking for fun in Orlando and you want to do it tomorrow, with no further planning?

Revolution Off Road promises you an afternoon filled with adrenaline, mud, and a whole lot of excitement – all just 22 miles away from Orlando itself!

This off-road motor venue in Florida sprawls across 230 acres and is full of various trails you can drive down in a dune buggy, all-terrain vehicles, or even an ARGO amphibious vehicle.

There are no drivers for you here – it’s just you racing against your friends as you speed across the countryside!

If getting dirty isn’t on your to-do list, there’s plenty of other things you can do too!

Try bass fishing in their private lake, or take up some archery lessons.

Clay shooting is available too if you’re interested.

And they provide all the equipment, so you don’t have to bring your own!

Address:  4000 FL-33, Clermont, FL 34714, United States

57. The Mall At Millenia

You wouldn’t think that visiting a shopping mall would be so high up on the list of best things to do in Orlando, but this one may change your mind.

Originally opened in 2002 as the first upscale mall in Central Florida, The Mall at Millenia still maintains its status as the go-to shopping destination for premium brands in Orlando.

Brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Emporio Armani, Versace, and even Yves Saint Lauren can be found in this architecturally dazzling mall.

This place isn’t just for the elite, however – common mainstays like H&M can be found here too, alongside more common brands like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and even the first Macy’s in Orlando.

Even if you’re not interested in buying something, the building is still worth paying a visit.

With its beautiful fountains and gorgeous glass ceilings, the mall itself is physically a sight to behold too!

Address:  4200 Conroy Rd, Orlando, FL 32839, United States

58. The Vanguard

The Vanguard

If you’re in Orlando tonight and you need a nighttime outing for adults, then your most reliable and exciting bet is The Vanguard .

First known as Firestone Live and later as Venue 578, The Vanguard is a nightclub that has made itself in what was once an old tire store.

The nightclub is famous for three things – its incredible sound system, the various entertainment events and music festivals it hosts, and the concerts it holds.

Every year, the venue plays host to over a hundred concerts – and some of them are concerts of well-known artists like Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, and Busta Rhymes!

You don’t have to stay put here when you start getting bored with the music, either.

Music lovers will be pleased to know there are at least two more music options you can visit when you’re done with The Vanguard!

Address:  578 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, United States

59. Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

KLiK Photography / Shutterstock

Trawling through downtown Orlando in search of some fun activities?

Look no further than the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens !

The zoo itself is home to over 500 animals spanning across 205 different species, like llamas, lizards, giraffes, rhinos, and even leopards!

Even without the animals and the various opportunities to learn about them, the Central Florida Zoo has plenty to do and to see.

Consider checking out the aerial adventure course, or tramping about in the splash ground to cool off.

There is also the Barnyard Buddies Children’s Zoo, a petting zoo that is perfect for younger children hoping to feed and pet-friendly animals.

The zoo also houses an insect zoo and a herbarium, which itself is home to the largest venomous and non-venomous snake collection in the southeast.

And this whole experience is only 20 minutes away from Orlando itself!

Address:  3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771, United States

Looking to explore even more? Check out some amazing things to do in Gainesville  & things to do in Jacksonville !

60. Jack Kerouac House

Jack Kerouac House

Every travel guide for exploring Florida will include the Jack Kerouac House – and for a very good reason.

Located in Orlando, this house marks the last home of the famous poet and writer, who spent his final years penning one of his most iconic works – The Dharma Bums.

Since then, the Friends of Jack Kerouac group have gained ownership of the house, and run it as a free residency for writers under the Kerouac Project.

Writers can live here expense-free while working on their projects, in honor of Jack Kerouac himself.

Many fans still consider this home a pilgrimage site, so you’ll see plenty of them around as they drop by to pay respects.

It is definitely worth paying this Heritage Site a visit while you’re traveling in Orlando – after all, this is an important cultural landmark for writers!

Address:  1418 Clouser Ave, Orlando, FL 32804, United States

61. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition Orlando

Is a slow, self-guided tour through a museum your idea of a fun time?

Then the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition should definitely be on your list of top things to do in Orlando!

Opened in Orlando, Florida on the 100th anniversary of the Titanic disaster, this exhibition showcases over 400 artifacts that have been successfully recovered from the wreck.

This includes a 3-ton piece of the ship’s hull itself!

If staring at artifacts don’t catch your fancy, the exhibition also has 17 galleries that contain exact replicas of the Titanic’s decor.

Some key sites include the Boiler Room, the Grand Staircase, the Promenade, and the First Parlour Suite.

The tours themselves are immersive, guided by actors playing the roles of actual crew members and passengers.

And to cap off the whole experience, you get a chance to touch a frozen chunk of iceberg yourself just to see how cold it was – all within Orlando!

Address:  7324 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

62. Orlando Balloon Rides

Orlando Balloon Rides

Not everyone is interested in going out at night, so just what kind of fun can you still have if you want to keep your Orlando experience strictly a day trip?

Enter the Orlando Balloon Rides – an experience that may become the highlight of your trip to Florida!

Since its establishment in 1985, this hot air balloon operator has provided incredible rides to anyone who wants to soar 1,000ft into the sky.

Some of the things to see on this hour-long ride includes both the cityscape and surrounding region, as well as all sorts of theme parks, orange groves, and swamp forests.

The balloon rides are available every single day of the year – but if you have a specific date in mind, it’s best to book it in advance.

The flights will also be canceled if the weather doesn’t meet safety conditions, so make sure to stay on top of your flight’s status.

Address:  5010 US-27, Clermont, FL 34714, United States

63. The Escape Game Orlando

The Escape Game (Orlando)

Looking for cool places to go in Florida ?

Have a penchant for solving puzzles and challenges?

Why not check out The Escape Game Orlando for 60 minutes of adventure?

You can even get a pin upon completion as a present!

Thanks to its transformative environments, players are thrown immediately into the heart of a tactile story and challenge.

Finding clues and trying to escape will test you and your friend’s lateral thinking and problem-solving skills – along with your ability to communicate and work together as a team!

Don’t worry if solving puzzles isn’t your strong suit, however – The Escape Game Orlando offers various rooms of varying difficulties, so you can just choose your own challenge level.

Additionally, most rooms are designed for a team of 2 to 8 players, so this is a good activity to try out with a group of friends!

Address:  8145 International Dr #511, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

64. WonderWorks

Carlos Rios / flickr

Still hunting down a list of fun things to do in Orlando?

This exciting indoor amusement park should be at the peak of that list – especially if you have children!

Located in Orlando, Florida, this amusement park catches the eye from the getgo with its strange design.

After all, it’s not very often you see a building that appears as if it were turned upside down!

According to WonderWorks ’s story, this building is both the laboratory and home of Professor Wonder, who got caught up in a tornado vortex when an experiment went wrong.

This building – and the man himself – then got transported to this location from the Bermuda Triangle, and is now home to all sorts of interactive scientific exhibits!

Many of these exhibits are arranged into six “Wonder Zones”.

Each one covers some scientific themes and educates participants through all sorts of simulations and exhibits.

What better way to understand physics than to design your own rollercoaster, after all?

Visiting other parts of Florida? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Key Largo  & some of the fun things to do in Fort Myers ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Orlando

Orlando is full of some of the best places to go on vacation and some of the best tourist attractions that you can find in Florida, even besides Disney.

Whether you plan a trip to the city today, tomorrow, this weekend, or next month, we hope that this list of the top spots in our guide for where to go on an Orlando vacation has helped you discover all the wonders that it has to offer! 

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Netflix’s ‘Somebody Feed Phil’ Bites Into Orlando

Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld® Orlando

Virtual Tours

Look at this cool new tool for exploring Orlando!

Epic Paddle Adventures on Lake Ivanhoe in Orlando’s Ivanhoe Village Main Street District

Things to Do in Orlando Beyond Theme Parks

Orlando offers no shortage of things to do. Sure, we’re the Theme Park Capital of the World. But did you know that we also have a vast range of attractions and recreational activities beyond theme parks, including ecotourism adventures in the great outdoors , standalone attractions  and other unforgettable ways to play?

Save on discount tickets: Orlando Theme Parks & Attractions

To guide you, we’ve compiled a list of Orlando’s top outdoor and indoor attractions. Because we know you’re going to want to spend time at our theme parks — but we wouldn’t want you to think they’re the only reason to visit Orlando.  

The opportunities for outdoor fun in and around Orlando are endless, including ziplining, airboat rides, animal encounters and much more. For additional information on these and other outdoor experiences, visit our  Ecotourism ,  Golf  and  Sports  pages.

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

About an hour south of Orlando’s main tourism districts, Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures invites you to glide across the headwaters of the Florida Everglades at speeds up to 40 mph aboard six-passenger airboats. During the 45-minute tour, you’ll encounter areas untouched by man and see a wide range of exotic wildlife. Night expeditions, which last an hour, are also available.

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Brevard Zoo

Discover more than 900 animals from around the world set within the natural beauty of Florida landscapes, just an hour from Orlando’s tourism districts on Florida’s east coast. Kayaking next to a giraffe, touching a rhino, feeding colorful parrots, walking with kangaroos, and even soaring high above a South American rainforest are all part of a “typical” day at Brevard Zoo .

Discover: Orlando Zoos & Gardens

Catboat Escapes

Captain your own personal catamaran across some of the cleanest waterways in Florida at Catboat Escapes , located in Clermont about 40 minutes west of Orlando’s main tourism districts. Glide across open wetlands, through cypress trees, across vast lakes and down into Cypress Cove, with Spanish moss dangling above you as your personal guide tells entertaining stories about the Crooked River and the community that lives around it.

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Nestled in lush, tropical foliage,  Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to 23 acres of native gardens and more than 500 animals. It also features an insect zoo, a reptile house, a children’s area with animals you can feed and pet, a splash playground, and the Seminole Aerial Adventures zip-line attraction. The zoo is located in Sanford, about 40 minutes north of our main tourism districts.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Go beyond a typical aquarium experience and immerse yourself in the world of marine life rescue at Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA), about 90 minutes from Orlando’s tourism districts on Florida’s west coast. Explore the working animal hospital, feed sting rays and participate in education presentations. You can also enjoy animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, eco-boat excursions and other programs, including watching the daily care of rescued creatures, fun educational presentations, and more.

Discover: Day Trips From Orlando

Congo River Golf

Play award-winning miniature golf at Congo River Golf in Kissimmee close to Walt Disney World ® Resort. As you play, explore the Congo and experience tranquil waterfalls, mysterious caves, tropical rainforests, challenging golf holes and more on an unforgettable African adventure.

Discover: Orlando Mini-Golf

Dinosaur World

See over 200 life-size dinosaurs in a natural setting at Dinosaur World , a self-guided outdoor museum in Plant City about an hour west of Orlando’s tourism districts. In addition to the standing exhibits, reasons to visit include a fossil dig for children, two live shows, an indoor museum with real artifacts and an animatronic dinosaur display.

Epic Paddle Adventures

Epic Paddle Adventures invites you to explore crystal-clear springs, search for marine life on the intercoastal, and enjoy some local sunshine on one of Orlando’s many gorgeous lakes. They pride themselves on providing hands-on, intensive instruction so you can feel comfortable on the water and focus on having the journey of a lifetime.

Fun Spot America

Fun Spot America is Central Florida’s only family-owned theme park, and it has two locations: International Drive, aka I-Drive, in Orlando and Kissimmee near Walt Disney World . Both provide the same level of fun, but they are distinct enough to allow for completely different experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who prefers the lights and sounds of an arcade, these parks offer plenty of excitement for the entire family, including multi-level go-kart tracks and Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster.

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Situated on more than 100 acres, one of Orlando’s oldest attractions provides affordably priced family fun. See thousands of alligators and crocodiles, along with an aviary, a breeding marsh with observation tower, Florida panthers, a petting zoo, and a splash pad for younger visitors. Gatorland also offers one-of-a-kind reptilian exhibitions and special up-close encounters, as well as the separately ticketed  Screamin’ Gator Zip Line  and Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure.

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Get Up and Go Kayaking

About 40 minutes north of Orlando’s main tourism districts, Rock Springs at Kelly Park boasts a free-flowing spring that Mother Nature keeps at a consistently cool 68 degrees. It’s an ideal location for a memorable family adventure — and there’s no better way to really see it all than renting 100% clear kayaks from Get Up and Go Kayaking .

Discover: Orlando’s Natural Springs

Giraffe Ranch

Have you ever fed a giraffe? At this attraction in Dade City, a little over an hour west of I-Drive, you’ll get to know giraffes and other species from around the world, all in a setting that seems right out of Africa with huge live oaks and open grasslands. Offering tours exclusively by reservation, Giraffe Ranch is on 47 acres of countryside adjoining Florida’s second largest wilderness area, the Green Swamp, complete with native orchids, lush pastures and rolling wetlands.

Hollywood Drive-In Golf at Universal CityWalk

Play two state-of-the-art, 18-hole courses that pay homage to creature classics of yesteryear: “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens,” based on vintage horror, and “Invaders From Planet Putt,” focusing on “little green men”-style science fiction. Hollywood Drive-In Golf is part of Universal CityWalk , the open-air dining, entertainment and shopping district at Universal Orlando Resort .

Discover: Things to Do at Universal CityWalk

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex & Nearby Museums

Visit space without ever leaving Earth. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center invites you to witness actual rocket launches, meet real astronauts, and see if you have “the right stuff” via immersive training experiences, all while exploring the past, present and future of space exploration. (Rocket selfie, anyone?) The historic, world-famous venue is just an hour from Orlando’s tourism districts on Florida’s east coast, resulting in an easy day trip. And with so much to see and do, it’s easy to make a full day of it — especially when paired with the nearby American Space Museum & Space Walk of Fame or, for a change of pace, The Wizard of Oz Museum , the latter of which is ranked as the No. 5 children’s museum in North America by TripAdvisor.

Discover: Things to Do at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Luxe Rentals

Explore Orlando’s wild waterways in style with a helping hand from Luxe Rentals, which is open daily as long as the sun is out. Whether you want to take the family on a thrilling jet ski ride or have a relaxed date night on a sunset cruise, they are ready to help make your dreams come true. What’s more, skilled instructors will be on the water with you at all times to ensure your safety and comfort.

Nona Adventure Park

Make a splash at Nona Adventure Park with water-based, family-friendly adventures. Between the inflatable aqua park and obstacle course, wake cable course, ropes course, climbing tower, and rock walls, it’s one of many unique experiences awaiting you in the forward-thinking Lake Nona community, minutes from Orlando International Airport .

Discover: Things to Do in Lake Nona

Orlando Kart Center

Located about halfway between our main tourism districts and Orlando International Airport, Orlando Kart Center (OKC) offers outdoor go-karting on a 6/10-mile track and an 8/10-mile track, both with real curbing and bumps. Their karts are gas-powered and can go up to 45 mph, and there’s even an option to race your own go-kart if you have one.

Discover: Best Orlando Go-Karting

Orlando StarFlyer

Standing 450 feet tall, Orlando StarFlyer gives you the chance to zoom over International Drive at speeds up to 60 mph — if you dare. Prioritizing safety, the family-friendly thrill ride is one of many things to do at ICON Park ® in the International Drive Entertainment District.

Discover: What to Expect From the Orlando StarFlyer

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park

Practice your best Tarzan yell before heading to Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park , which is minutes from Walt Disney World in Kissimmee. It features 97 challenges for climbers of every skill level, including swings, nets, ropes, a trapeze and other ways to show off. Safety is never an issue, either, as you’ll be securely clipped to a safety cable, and all guests receive a safety demonstration from trained instructors.

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

Ahoy, mateys — and fore! The affordably priced Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf on I-Drive has two nine-hole courses with lots of piratical flair, including cascading waterfalls, dungeons, tropical vegetation and an actual pirate ship.

Discover: 29+ Things to Do for $29 or Less

Real Florida Adventures

With more than 40 years’ experience, Real Florida Adventures has explored every nook and cranny of the Sunshine State, and they’re eager to share their energy and passion to help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Choose from a wide range of expertly guided tours, including Kennedy Space Center rocket launches, kayaking, natural springs, snorkeling with manatees, and airboat rides, to name a few.

Revolution Adventures

An off-road motor and fishing venue set in 230 acres of Florida countryside, Revolution Adventures is close to all major tourist attractions. You’re invited to jump in the driver’s seat for the guided adventure of a lifetime on all-terrain vehicles, dune buggies or even ARGO amphibious Mucky Ducks. Revolution also offers bass fishing on its private lake, as well as archery lessons and clay shooting. All equipment is included.

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The Showcase of Citrus

Located in Clermont about an hour east of Orlando’s main tourism districts, The Showcase of Citrus is a family-owned and operated, 2,500-acre estate that cultivates over 50 varieties of citrus. From U-pick citrus to monster truck tours to gem mining to simply enjoying a relaxing picnic, there are activities for everyone of all ages.

Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Rides

Glide through a beautiful, natural paradise of swamps, marshes and incredible wildlife at Spirit of the Swamp , about 30 minutes southeast of I-Drive. This operator uses small, six-passenger boats for an intimate experience, and private airboat rides are also available.

Tank America

Want to drive a tank but not prepared to join the military? Visit the only place in Florida where you can do so: Tank America . Take command of a real Abbott Self-Propelled Gun tank and conquer a half-mile of obstacles, turns and hills with lots of surprises along the way.

Discover: What to Expect at Tank America

Wallaby Ranch Hang Gliding Flight Park

Using the latest tandem aerotowing techniques, Wallaby Ranch Hang Gliding Flight Park provides the safest, most enjoyable hang-gliding experience possible. Located southwest of Walt Disney World , they offer their signature Discovery Tandem Flights and hang-gliding instruction throughout the year.

West Orange Trail Bikes & Blades Co.

Stretching from Winter Garden in the south to Apopka in the north, the paved, 22-mile West Orange Trail is a must-visit for nature-lovers who come to Orlando — and Winter Garden’s West Orange Trail Bikes & Blades Co. puts it all in reach with hourly, daily and weekly rentals of road bikes, sport comfort bikes, kids bikes and trailers. They’ll even deliver to your hotel. Winter Garden is west of Orlando’s main tourism districts.

Discover: Things To Do in Winter Garden

Wild Florida Airboats, Gator Park & Drive-Thru Safari

At Wild Florida , travel deep into 4,200 acres of protected swamps, marshes and rivers that make up the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. On your journey, you’ll get an in-depth look at the gators, birds, eagles, trees and plants that can be found in the area’s beautiful wetlands. What’s more, airboat tickets include complimentary admission to the wildlife park and a hands-on gator demonstration. And now, you can drive a car through their Safari Park for a self-guided tour with more than 100 exotic animals and native Florida wildlife, just 45 minutes south of I-Drive.

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Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of the area’s best hidden-gem attractions, the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour  offers a relaxing, narrated, one-hour cruise through the gorgeous waterways of Winter Park, about 30 minutes north of our main tourism districts. Along the way, you’ll see Rollins College, Kraft Azalea Gardens, Winter Park’s Isle of Sicily, multimillion-dollar mansions and an abundance of wildlife.

Discover: Things To Do in Winter Park

Save on discount tickets:  Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

About 90 minutes from Orlando’s tourism districts, ZooTampa is a place where you can come nose-to-nose with an endangered Florida panther, witness life-saving care of majestic manatees, go on a safari through Africa, and so much more.

Orlando has indoor activities for all ages and interests — from making your own Crayola crayon or indoor skydiving, to experiencing an upside-down “amusement park for the mind” or putting pedal to the metal on high-speed go-karts. Visit our Arts & Entertainment and Shopping pages for even more ideas on ways to have indoor fun in Orlando.

Altitude Trampoline Park

Channel your energy and cut loose with your best flips and tricks at Altitude Trampoline Park. Located in Kissimmee near the theme parks, this attraction offers 35,000 square feet of indoor trampolines and other fun activities.

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Race with a legend at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games  — the only indoor karting experience endorsed by Mario Andretti. Adjacent to International Drive and the Orange County Convention Center, this 150,000-square-foot facility features multi-level indoor karting, 12 lanes of boutique bowling, more than 120 arcade and prize games, two-story laser tag, six virtual-reality racing simulators, a motion theater, and an extreme ropes course with a curved-rail zipline, as well as a full-service restaurant and bars.

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Chocolate Kingdom — Interactive Factory Adventure Tour

Embark on a delicious journey at Chocolate Kingdom — Interactive Factory Adventure Tour in Orlando’s I-Drive entertainment district. Joined by a handsome prince and his dragon sidekick, your personal tour guide will take you through a Cacao Tree Greenhouse, a one-of-a-kind Chocolate Museum, a Mystical River of Chocolate, and a Bean-to-the-Bar Micro Batch Factory that uses old-world machinery. You’ll even have the opportunity to create a customized chocolate bar.

Crayola Experience

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Enjoy a full day of creative play and colorful fun with more than two dozen hands-on activities at the family-friendly Crayola Experience , located at  The Florida Mall ® . Covering two stories and 70,000 square feet, Crayola Experience invites you to name and wrap your own Crayola crayon, and learn how crayons are made in a fun live show. You can also sculpt colorful creations at the Crayola Model Magic compound, watch as your digital art comes to life on a huge interactive wall, and melt crayons down into shapes.

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Dezerland Park

Part of the I-Drive Entertainment District, Dezerland Park is a destination in its own right with numerous indoor attractions to enjoy. Things to do include Axecelsior Axe Throwing, Orlando Auto Museum , The Pinball Palace , Arcade Orlando , Bowling Orlando , Jump Start Trampoline Park , Karting Orlando , and Rage Room Orlando, among others.

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Dinner Shows

Knights, pirates, mobsters and more provide dazzling entertainment while you feast on delicious fare at Orlando’s famous themed dinner shows. In the Lake Buena Vista area, top options include the original Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament ( get discount tickets ), Capone’s Dinner & Show , and the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review , the latter of which is at Walt Disney World . In the I-Drive area, choices include Mango’s Tropical Cafe , Teatro Martini Orlando , Pirates Dinner Adventure and Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando .

Discover: Orlando’s Top Dinner Shows

Drive Shack

Leave Lake Nona with the perfect golf swing courtesy of Drive Shack , where you’ll play from climate-controlled, covered driving bays. Offering an innovative take on the sport, this venue turns golf into fun games like ShackJack, which is based on classic blackjack, and Monster Hunt, where you destroy monsters to save a princess. After your game, take a break with mouthwatering food and beverages on the outdoor deck overlooking Lake Nona.

The Escape Game Orlando

Located in the heart of I-Drive, and rated as Orlando’s No. 1 escape room by TripAdvisor, The Escape Game offers immersive, 60-minute adventures that bring epic stories to life in a one-of-a-kind tactile experience. You and your team will work together to find clues, overcome challenges and ultimately complete a mission. Escaping will require teamwork, communication, wits, a sense of adventure and most importantly: you.

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At Escapology on International Drive, you and up to seven companions race against the clock to find clues, solve puzzles and escape inside of 60 minutes. Scenarios include Scooby-Doo and the Spooky Castle Adventure, Murder on the Orient Express, Antidote, 7 Deadly Sins, Mansion Murder, Narco, and Under Pressure, with Star Trek : Quantum Filament and Lost City coming soon.

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ICON Park® Indoor Attractions

The adventures continue at ICON Park with indoor attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Discover: Things to Do at ICON Park

The Orlando Eye at ICON Park®

Technically speaking, The Orlando Eye is outdoors, but you’ll experience it in climate-controlled comfort aboard one of the roomy, Wi-Fi-enabled capsules. Towering over International Drive, the 400-foot-tall observation wheel will give you an unbeatable view of Orlando.

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Madame Tussauds Orlando

At Madame Tussauds Orlando , you can rub shoulders with lifelike stars from film and television, music, sports, pop culture, and history. You can even meet some of the world’s best-known superheroes as part of Justice League: A Call for Heroes featuring the stars of DC Entertainment’s Justice League motion pictures, including Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman, Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg — and photography is always welcome.

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Max Action Arena

Enjoy axe throwing, virtual reality gaming, adventure rooms and an escape room at  Max Action Arena .

Museum of Illusions

Billed as a brain-bending “edutainment” experience, Museum of Illusions boasts more than 50 incredible exhibits. Dive into a wild collection of interactive, immersive and decidedly incomprehensible exhibits based on math, science and psychology, all designed to blow your mind.

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SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Dive deep into an underwater world of wonder at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium . Soak up incredible views from Orlando’s only 360-degree underwater tunnel, where sharks and rays swim overhead, and gaze at breathtaking creatures as you walk through themed habitats. It also features a special play area for younger guests.

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In the Game ICON Park®

Get your game on with classic arcade and prize games, virtual-reality experiences, a 7D Motion Theater, a stunning Mirror Maze, and more at In the Game.

Discover: Things to Do on International Drive

iFLY Orlando Indoor Skydiving

If you’ve always wanted to experience skydiving but aren’t too keen on the whole “jumping out of a plane” aspect, head to iFLY Orlando on International Drive. There’s no parachute and no jumping. Instead, you’ll float on a cushion of air thanks to iFLY’s innovative, vertical wind-tunnel technology. It’s safe for guests as young as 3, and you’ll be guided by a personal flight instructor.

Discover: Insider’s Guide to I-Drive

Kings Dining & Entertainment

Between 22 ten-pin bowling lanes, four full-size billiards tables, numerous table games, more than 60 giant HDTVs and other dynamic diversions — not to mention a full-service, chef-driven restaurant and two premium bars — a good time is easy to find at  Kings Dining & Entertainment . It’s part of the I-Drive Entertainment District.

K1 Speed Orlando

Part of the I-Drive Entertainment District, K1 Speed Orlando is a single-track racing center with performance-focused electric go-karts that can reach speeds of 45 mph. It also features a miniature bowling alley, arcade games, pool tables, a full bar, an ice cream parlor, and a full-service, made-to-order kitchen.

Main Event Entertainment

Eat, bowl and play at Main Event Entertainment , part of the Pointe Orlando entertainment and dining district near the Orange County Convention Center. Explore over 55,000 square feet of fun with state-of-the-art bowling, laser tag, high ropes adventure courses, billiards and over 100 interactive video games. Top it all off with dining experiences ranging from fast-casual to chef-inspired as well as a wide selection of creative cocktails, beer and wine.

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Orlando Gun Club

Minutes from I-Drive, Orlando Gun Club strives to provide the ultimate shooting experience with a fully air-conditioned, state-of-the-art, clean, inviting facility staffed by friendly, knowledgeable professionals. Whether you’re a first-time shooter, avid hobbyist or firearms expert, they’re ready to meet your needs. And yes, gun rentals are available.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not ®

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!  on I-Drive looks like it’s falling into a massive Florida sinkhole — but don’t worry, it’s not going anywhere. Inside the 10,000-square-foot venue, be amazed, astounded and thoroughly entertained as you explore unusual and fascinating exhibits collected by world-famous traveler Robert Ripley and his successors.

Topgolf Orlando

Just off I-Drive and adjacent to the Orange County Convention Center, Topgolf Orlando offers a fresh spin on golf using climate-controlled driving bays where you can use the provided clubs or bring your own. Play matches elements of traditional golf with darts, and the action is complemented by a chef-inspired menu and full-service bars.

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WonderWorks

Billed as an indoor amusement park for the mind, WonderWorks offers 35,000 square feet of “edu-tainment” with more than 100 hands-on exhibits designed to challenge the mind and spark the imagination. Just look for the famous upside-down building at Pointe Orlando on International Drive — the result of a once top-secret laboratory in the Bermuda Triangle that wound up in Orlando following an experiment gone awry. It’s also home to the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show.

Discover: Things to Do at WonderWorks

Other Fun Things To Do in Orlando:

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