Orlando, Florida, is famous for its world-class theme parks, but there’s so much more to explore beyond Disney and Universal. Here’s a list of must-do activities in Orlando, ranging from thrilling attractions to natural beauty and cultural experiences:

Check out Expedia prices for Theme park passes and packages for the items below.

1. Visit Theme Parks

• Walt Disney World Resort:
  • A massive complex with four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each offers unique attractions, shows, and dining experiences.
• Universal Orlando Resort:
  • Home to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Don’t miss the thrill rides, 3D experiences, and Harry Potter-themed lands.
• SeaWorld Orlando:
  • Explore marine life exhibits, aquariums, and live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and orcas. There are also roller coasters and water rides.
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort:
  • Perfect for families with younger children, this park features LEGO-themed attractions, shows, and a water park.

2. Discover International Drive (I-Drive)

• ICON Park:
  • Take a ride on The Wheel, a 400-foot tall observation wheel offering panoramic views of the city. The park also has restaurants, shops, and attractions like Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and SEA LIFE Aquarium.
• WonderWorks:
  • An interactive, educational, and fun indoor theme park with hands-on exhibits for all ages.
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando:
  • Explore oddities, interactive exhibits, and fun facts at this quirky museum.

3. Explore Nature and Outdoor Adventures

• Gatorland:
  • Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland offers gator shows, zip lines over alligator ponds, and opportunities to get up close with wildlife.
• Wekiwa Springs State Park:
  • A great spot for kayaking, canoeing, swimming in the crystal-clear springs, and hiking through scenic nature trails.
• Lake Eola Park:
  • Located in downtown Orlando, it’s perfect for a relaxing stroll, renting swan boats, or catching a glimpse of the Orlando skyline.
• Airboat Rides:
  • Explore the Florida Everglades with airboat tours, which take you through swamps and wetlands while spotting alligators and other wildlife.

4. Enjoy Orlando’s Museums and Culture

• Orlando Science Center:
  • Great for families, the Science Center offers interactive exhibits on science and technology, plus live programming and planetarium shows.
• Orlando Museum of Art:
  • Features a rotating collection of contemporary and modern art, as well as exhibits focused on African, American, and ancient cultures.
• The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art:
  • This museum in Winter Park houses the largest collection of Tiffany glass in the world. It’s a hidden gem for art lovers.
• Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts:
  • Catch Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances in this state-of-the-art venue in downtown Orlando.

5. Shop and Dine

• Disney Springs:
  • A huge shopping, dining, and entertainment district with high-end stores, themed restaurants, live performances, and a beautiful lakeside setting.
• The Mall at Millenia:
  • An upscale shopping destination with luxury brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, plus popular stores like Apple, Zara, and Macy’s.
• Orlando International Premium Outlets:
  • Shop for discounted designer and brand-name goods at this popular outlet mall.
• Winter Park:
  • Just outside Orlando, Winter Park’s Park Avenue is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and al fresco dining. The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is also a local favorite.

6. Attend Sporting Events

• Orlando Magic (NBA):
  • Watch an NBA basketball game at the Amway Center, home to the Orlando Magic.
• Orlando City SC (MLS):
  • For soccer fans, check out an Orlando City soccer match at Exploria Stadium.
• Daytona International Speedway:
  • Just an hour away from Orlando, you can attend the Daytona 500 or take a tour of the famous racetrack.

7. Family-Friendly Fun

• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex:
  • About an hour away, this is where NASA’s space missions come to life. See real space shuttles, experience astronaut training, and maybe even witness a rocket launch.
• The Crayola Experience:
  • Located at the Florida Mall, this attraction offers over 25 hands-on activities, perfect for families with young children.
• Fun Spot America:
  • An amusement park with thrilling rides, go-kart tracks, and an arcade. It’s a great option for a less crowded, more budget-friendly experience than the major theme parks.

8. Explore Unique Orlando Neighborhoods

• Thornton Park:
  • This trendy downtown district is known for its charming, brick-lined streets, local cafes, boutiques, and artsy vibe.
• Lake Nona:
  • A fast-growing, innovative community with a focus on technology, wellness, and outdoor recreation. It has parks, restaurants, and the famous Boxi Park, which features food trucks and live entertainment.
• College Park:
  • A laid-back neighborhood with vintage shops, trendy restaurants, and a local feel, located just north of downtown Orlando.

9. Nightlife and Entertainment

• Universal CityWalk:
  • Known as Universal Orlando’s entertainment district, CityWalk is home to restaurants, bars, live music, and attractions like the Blue Man Group.
• Downtown Orlando:
  • Explore the city’s nightlife scene with a range of bars, clubs, and lounges. Wall Street Plaza is a popular area for night owls.
• Topgolf Orlando:
  • A fun way to spend the evening, this entertainment venue features high-tech golf bays, drinks, and great food.

10. Seasonal and Special Events

• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival:
  • A culinary experience where visitors can try foods and drinks from around the world, typically held in the fall.
• Mardi Gras at Universal Studios:
  • Celebrate with parades, concerts, and authentic New Orleans cuisine during this annual springtime event.
• Christmas and Halloween Events:
  • Theme parks like Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld transform into holiday wonderlands during Christmas and spooky experiences during Halloween. Don’t miss Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights.

Orlando offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly fun!