Orlando, Florida, a city often synonymous with the enchanting realm of Disney, boasts a vibrant tapestry of experiences that extend far beyond the Magic Kingdom’s gates. While the allure of Mickey Mouse and Cinderella Castle is undeniable, Orlando offers a diverse range of attractions, catering to every taste and interest. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, immersive cultural encounters, or tranquil escapes into nature, Orlando presents a captivating array of options to enrich your vacation. This guide unveils the top 22 things to do in Orlando, inviting you to explore the city’s multifaceted charm.
- Experience Disney World:
No exploration of Orlando is complete without venturing into the magical world of Disney. Walt Disney World, a sprawling kingdom of imagination and adventure, encompasses multiple theme parks, each with its unique allure, captivating water parks, and immersive resort experiences. For families with younger children, focusing on one or two parks may be a more manageable and enjoyable experience. The Magic Kingdom, a realm of classic fairy tales and beloved characters, and Animal Kingdom, a celebration of the natural world and its diverse inhabitants, are particularly well-suited for younger audiences. Immerse yourself in the enchantment of Disney, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- Explore Gatorland:
Venture into the heart of Florida’s untamed wilderness at Gatorland, an outdoor park that provides an up-close and personal encounter with the state’s iconic reptiles. Observe a diverse collection of alligators and crocodiles, ranging from the formidable American alligator to the rare and captivating white gators, including the renowned Bone Crusher, the largest living American crocodile. Encounter other fascinating creatures, such as wild cats, birds, snakes, and turtles, adding to the park’s allure. Gatorland also offers thrilling activities like zip-lining, allowing you to soar above the alligator-infested waters, and nighttime gator tours, providing a unique perspective on these nocturnal predators.
- Spend the Day at SeaWorld:
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the ocean at SeaWorld, a captivating blend of theme park thrills and aquarium fascination. Discover a manageable array of rides and attractions, allowing you to savor each experience without the pressure of rushing to see everything. SeaWorld caters to all ages, offering a wide variety of attractions that appeal to diverse interests. Thrill-seekers will revel in Infinity Falls, a thrilling water ride that sends guests soaring down speedy rapids, leaving them soaked and exhilarated. Younger guests will delight in Happy Harbor, a dedicated kiddie zone filled with family-friendly rides and attractions. And of course, no visit to SeaWorld is complete without witnessing the captivating animal shows, such as Dolphin Days, Ocean Discovery, and Pets Ahoy, showcasing the intelligence and beauty of marine life.
- Swim and Play at Discovery Cove:
Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature at Discovery Cove, a unique aquatic adventure park owned by SeaWorld. Unlike typical theme parks, Discovery Cove invites visitors to engage in hands-on experiences that bring them closer to marine life. Swim alongside playful dolphins, snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs teeming with exotic fish, or hand-feed tropical birds in a lush aviary. Relax on the pristine beachfront bay, basking in the warm Florida sun, or drift along the soothing river with gentle currents. Discovery Cove offers a day of relaxation and adventure, creating unforgettable memories in a natural paradise.
- Head to LegoLand:
Venture into a world built entirely of plastic bricks at Legoland, a whimsical theme park located an hour south of Orlando. Immerse yourself in a land inhabited by square-shaped people with plastic hair, where imagination and creativity reign supreme. Legoland offers a complete vacation experience, with two Lego-themed hotels, dry and water rides, captivating shows, and diverse dining options. This family-friendly destination is also surprisingly affordable, with ticket and hotel packages starting at just $150 a night. Unleash your inner child and embark on a Lego-filled adventure.
- Experience the SeaLife Aquarium:
Discover the wonders of the underwater world at the SeaLife Aquarium, nestled within the vibrant International Drive Resort area in Orlando. Stroll along International Drive, a bustling hub of family-friendly attractions, and immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits of SeaLife Aquarium. Marvel at exotic fish, sharks, sea turtles, and jellyfish, gaining a unique perspective on the intricate workings of the undersea ecosystem. Experience Florida’s only 360-degree viewing tunnel, allowing you to walk through the ocean without getting wet, surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of marine life.
- Fly High at ICON Orlando:
Ascend to new heights and experience the Orlando skyline like never before on the ICON Orlando, a towering 400-foot observation wheel. Located in the popular International Drive resort area, ICON Orlando transcends the traditional Ferris wheel experience, offering 30 fully enclosed, air-conditioned capsules that transport you above the clouds, providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Whether day or night, ICON Orlando offers an unforgettable experience for the entire family, showcasing the beauty of Orlando from a unique vantage point.
- Get Messy at the Crayola Experience:
Unleash your creativity and dive into a world of color at the Crayola Experience, attached to Orlando‘s Florida Mall. This interactive attraction is more than just a craft store; it’s a place where kids can create crayon jewelry, craft melted crayon artwork, capture a photo with the world’s largest crayon, design a personalized coloring page portrait, and bring digital designs to life. Witness interactive color shows and explore a vast selection of crayons, igniting imaginations and fostering artistic expression. If you’re traveling with younger children and need to fill a few hours, the Crayola Experience is a vibrant and engaging destination.
- Play All Day at WonderWorks:
Step into an upside-down world of interactive amusement at WonderWorks, an indoor amusement park museum that defies gravity and sparks curiosity. From the moment you enter the building, which appears to be an upside-down structure, you’ll be captivated by the unique and engaging exhibits. Kids of all ages will love the thrilling attractions, such as laser tag, a ropes challenge course, and a simulator ride. Hands-on exhibits about space, weather, light, and sound offer educational and fun experiences, making WonderWorks a must-visit destination for families seeking a blend of entertainment and learning.
- Immerse Yourself in Titanic History:
Delve into the tragic yet captivating history of the Titanic at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, located on International Drive. This immersive exhibit transports you back 100 years to the time of the Titanic, allowing you to experience the grandeur and the heartbreak of that fateful voyage. Seventeen museum galleries showcase full-scale replicas of parts of the ship, along with artifacts recovered from the wreck site, including the "Little Big Piece," a section of the ship’s hull. On Friday and Saturday nights, the museum hosts a Titanic Gala Dinner, where guests become first-class passengers, celebrating with friends on the infamous night of April 14th. The gala includes a museum tour, a dinner featuring an actual Titanic menu, and a re-enactment of the events that unfolded on that tragic night.
- Ride an Airboat at Boggy Creek Adventures:
Experience the thrill of gliding across the Central Florida Everglades on an airboat with Boggy Creek Adventures. Choose from a variety of tour options, including private tours and nighttime excursions, or rent your own airboat and embark on a self-guided adventure in search of alligators, birds, and turtles. While waiting for your tour, explore the Native American village or try your luck at the gemstone and fossil mine. A restaurant and tiki bar on site provide refreshments and relaxation, enhancing the overall experience.
- Relax on a Winter Park Boat Tour:
Embark on a tranquil afternoon excursion with The Winter Park Boat Tour, a scenic journey along Lake Osceola. Located just 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, the boat tour offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Keep an eye out for cranes, alligators, and swaying palm trees as you glide across the water, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere of Winter Park.
- Visit the Holy Land Experience:
Step back in time and explore ancient Jerusalem at the Holy Land Experience, a unique theme park that transports guests to the biblical era. Witness a service by the high priest, Aharon, and his sons at the Tabernacle, or delve into factual insights and artifacts from ancient Israel at the Scriptorium. The park features a variety of educational and interactive shows that elevate the soul and provide a deeper understanding of biblical history.
- Find Adventure at Forever Florida Nature Preserve:
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Florida wilderness at Forever Florida, a nature preserve offering a range of outdoor activities. Soar above the trees on a 2 1/2-hour zip-lining adventure, or explore uncharted terrain on a horseback riding trail. For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping options are available, including cabin rentals, bunkhouses, and tent-style camping. Forever Florida is best suited for older kids and adults seeking an adventurous escape into nature.
- Visit the Orlando Science Center:
Discover the wonders of science at the Orlando Science Center, a perfect activity for a rainy day. This engaging museum features exhibits that ignite curiosity and activate the senses. From live animal shows to dinosaur safaris to cutting-edge science demonstrations, the Orlando Science Center offers a stimulating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
- See Animals at Safari Wilderness Ranch:
Embark on an African safari adventure at Safari Wilderness Ranch, where you can encounter zebras, water buffalo, kudu, and other safari animal staples. Enjoy an open-sided jeep safari or kayak through the artificial lake, offering unique perspectives on the wildlife. Sunset safaris and camel-back expeditions are also available, providing unforgettable experiences. This is the closest you can get to an actual safari experience in the entire state of Florida.
- Stroll Around Universal’s CityWalk:
Explore the vibrant entertainment district of Universal Studios at CityWalk, an outdoor shopping area filled with stores, restaurants, live entertainment, and bars. Enjoy a night out with friends or the entire family, taking in the lively atmosphere and diverse offerings. Check the concert schedule for peak season, as CityWalk often hosts rotating concerts featuring popular artists.
- Stay at Shipwreck Island Water Park:
Enjoy a waterpark getaway without venturing into the major theme parks by staying at a resort like the Westgate Town Center Resort in Kissimmee, home to Shipwreck Island Water Park. Non-resort guests can also access the park for a small admission fee. While not a large park, Shipwreck Island offers a manageable and fun experience for families with younger children.
- Spend the Day at Universal Studios:
Immerse yourself in the world of movies and entertainment at Universal Studios, a premier theme park in Orlando. Home to iconic attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Jurassic Park River ride, and the Spiderman ride, Universal Studios offers a wealth of thrilling experiences. Explore the adjacent Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay water park for even more fun and adventure.
- Indulge at the World of Chocolate Museum:
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the World of Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate from around the world and admire over 25 chocolate sculptures of famous landmarks and people. Participate in chocolate making and tasting experiences, making this museum a delightful destination for chocolate lovers.
- Watch a Rocket Launch at the Kennedy Space Center:
Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of a rocket launch at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, located an hour east of Orlando. Even if a launch isn’t scheduled during your visit, the Kennedy Space Center offers a fascinating glimpse into NASA’s space programs, past, present, and future. Explore exhibits, take a guided tour, and learn about the wonders of space exploration. After your visit, head to nearby Playalinda Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean.
- Meet a Wax Celebrity at Madame Tussauds:
Rub shoulders with lifelike wax figures of today’s hottest celebrities and characters at Madame Tussauds Orlando. Capture memorable photos with Wonder Woman, Superman, Batman, Selena Gomez, Will Smith, Albert Einstein, and other iconic figures. Madame Tussauds offers a fun and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.
