Orlando is a city of enchantment for both children and adults because there are so many interesting and exciting attractions to discover. While you surely have heard of the most popular, Orlando has so much more to offer than you might think.
So, what are fun things to do in Orlando, Florida? As you get ready for your next trip, here are some of the best things to do in Orlando that are sure to please everyone.
Plan a Fun Florida Experience by Visiting Popular Theme Parks
Did you know that Orlando has more than a dozen theme parks? It’s one of the most visited cities in the world because there are so many fun and diverse attractions all packed into one place. While Disney World is usually at the top of everyone’s list, there’s actually a wide variety of amusement parks to choose from.
There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Orlando, Florida, as there are four main theme parks with smaller amusement parks inside. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to entertainment options in this magical city.
SeaWorld Orlando
If you’re asking yourself what fun things there are to do in Orlando, Florida, SeaWorld Orlando will likely come to mind. Nearby, there are two other parks called Discovery Cove and Aquatica, and all three together make up SeaWorld Parks and Resorts Orlando.
SeaWorld offers visitors the chance to experience thrilling roller coasters or see marine animals like penguins, orcas, and sharks up-close.
At Discovery Cove, you can enjoy an immersive experience and interact with animals. Choose your adventure, from swimming with dolphins to snorkeling to hand-feeding tropical birds.
And if you want to take in the sunshine that central Florida is famous for, head to Aquatica. This is a waterpark that boasts thrilling water slides, private cabanas, and exciting water rides for all ages.
Kennedy Space Center
When it comes to things to do in Orlando, a side trip to the Kennedy Space Center is a must. About an hour east of Orlando by car, the Kennedy Space Center gives you the heart-racing opportunity to see a live rocket launch. You can then take a walk through the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, or explore the Rocket Garden, home to rockets from NASA’s Gemini, Apollo, and Mercury programs.
Disney Springs and Walt Disney® World Resort
No trip to Orlando is complete without a stop at Walt Disney World Resort! The resort has four theme parks: Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The complex also contains two water parks, 31 themed hotels, nine hotels not related to Disney, a camping resort, entertainment, and so much more.
You could easily spend a whole week enjoying Disney World’s parks, but take some time to explore Disney Springs as well. This outdoor complex has a nice mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment for the whole family.
For example, you can enjoy a meal at a themed restaurant, shop ‘til you drop in Town Center, or take in a show, like Cirque du Soleil. You can easily hop over to Disney Springs by bus or water taxi from other parts of the Walt Disney World Resort complex.
Icon Park on International Drive
International Drive, known as IDRIVE, is the main tourist strip connecting most of Orlando's theme parks and attractions. Between International Dr. and Universal Blvd., you’ll find Icon Park, another entertainment complex that offers attractions for the whole family. No trip to Icon Park is complete without a ride on The Wheel, a 400-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers incredible views of Orlando.
Take a Day Trip to Visit the Natural Beauty in Florida
If you’ve had your fill of theme parks, there are so many other things to do in Orlando. Reconnect with nature and explore the unique landscape of central Florida in one of the area’s nature centers.
Swim in the Many Natural Springs at Blue Spring State Park
About 40 minutes north of Orlando is Blue Spring State Park, where you can enjoy several different water sports, like canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to this spot to swim in the crystal-clear waters and cool off from the hot Florida sun.
What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to discover native animals in their natural habitat, like the West Indian manatee, Florida scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, and black bear. Note that no swimming is allowed near the manatees.
Stroll Through the Butterfly Garden at Botanical Gardens
Another fun thing to do in Orlando is to take a relaxing walk through the butterfly gardens at Mead Botanical Gardens. Located in Winter Park, just 10 minutes north of Orlando, there are two gardens where you can stroll amongst the beautiful plants and flowers that butterflies love as they flit through the air. The Mead Botanical garden is free and fun for the whole family and makes for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Orlando.
Don't Miss Out on Deals to Visit Disney's Magic Kingdom or Other Major Theme Parks
The best way to explore all of the fun things to do in Orlando is by purchasing Orlando CityPASS® tickets. You can score discounted tickets to some of the area’s biggest and best attractions, like Walt Disney World® Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, and LEGOLAND® Florida Resort.
There are several ticket options for each park so that you can choose the deal that works best for your budget and the amount of time you want to spend at each park. Simply select the tickets you want and discover big savings compared to buying tickets at the entrance. There really is no better way to discover all of the best attractions in Orlando!
Orlando Lodging
Part of a great vacation is finding a great place to stay. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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