20 Things to Do in Orlando Florida

Orlando, Florida, is a city that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. While it’s famously known for its world-class theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, there’s so much more to explore in this vibrant city. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, Orlando has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for new things to discover, here are 20 exciting things to do in Orlando, Florida.

1. Explore Walt Disney World Resort

No visit to Orlando is complete without a trip to Walt Disney World Resort, the largest and most famous theme park complex in the world. With four theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—plus two water parks, shopping, dining, and entertainment, Walt Disney World offers endless fun for the entire family.

2. Experience Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort is another must-visit destination, home to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Whether you’re exploring the magical world of Harry Potter, braving thrilling rides, or enjoying live shows, Universal Orlando offers an unforgettable experience for movie and adventure lovers.

3. Visit SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando combines marine life exhibits with thrilling rides and shows, offering a unique experience that blends education with entertainment. Don’t miss the chance to see killer whales, dolphins, and penguins up close, and enjoy the park’s roller coasters and water rides.

4. Explore the Kennedy Space Center

Located about an hour’s drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in space exploration. Explore exhibits on NASA’s history, view real spacecraft, and even meet an astronaut. The center offers a fascinating look at America’s space program and the wonders of the universe.

5. Stroll Around Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of downtown Orlando. Take a leisurely walk around the lake, rent a paddleboat shaped like a swan, or enjoy a picnic on the grass. The park is also home to the iconic Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain and hosts various events throughout the year.

6. Discover the Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a hands-on museum offering interactive exhibits on science, technology, and nature. From exploring the mysteries of space to learning about dinosaurs, the Science Center is perfect for curious minds of all ages. It also features a giant-screen theater and a planetarium.

7. Visit Gatorland

Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland is one of Orlando’s oldest attractions. This 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve is home to thousands of alligators and crocodiles. Visitors can enjoy shows, take a zipline over the alligator breeding marsh, or experience the park’s offbeat charm.

8. Shop and Dine at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located at Walt Disney World Resort. With a wide variety of restaurants, stores, and live entertainment, Disney Springs offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal, shop for souvenirs, or catch a live performance.

9. Experience International Drive

International Drive, or I-Drive, is Orlando’s main tourist corridor, packed with attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options. From the ICON Park observation wheel to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, I-Drive offers endless activities for visitors of all ages.

10. Enjoy the Harry P. Leu Gardens

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Harry P. Leu Gardens, a 50-acre botanical oasis just minutes from downtown Orlando. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants, including roses, palms, and camellias, as well as a historic home dating back to the 19th century.

11. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience Orlando from a new perspective with a hot air balloon ride over the city and its surrounding countryside. Several companies offer sunrise balloon rides that provide breathtaking views of Central Florida’s lakes, forests, and theme parks.

12. Visit the Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art is a cultural gem that showcases a diverse collection of American, African, and contemporary art. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions, art classes, and special events, making it a great destination for art enthusiasts.

13. Explore the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

Located in Winter Park, just outside of Orlando, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The museum’s stunning collection includes Tiffany glass, lamps, jewelry, and pottery, as well as a chapel interior designed by Tiffany himself.

14. Visit the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, located in Sanford, offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family. The zoo is home to more than 350 animals, including rare and endangered species, and the botanical gardens feature a variety of native and exotic plants.

15. Catch a Game at the Amway Center

Sports fans should not miss the opportunity to catch a game or event at the Amway Center, home to the NBA’s Orlando Magic and the ECHL’s Orlando Solar Bears. The state-of-the-art arena also hosts concerts, family shows, and other live events throughout the year.

16. Explore Winter Park

Winter Park is a charming suburb of Orlando known for its tree-lined streets, upscale boutiques, and beautiful parks. Stroll along Park Avenue, visit the Winter Park History Museum, or take a scenic boat tour through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes.

17. Go on an Orlando Food Tour

Orlando’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, reflecting the city’s multicultural population. Food tours offer a great way to explore the city’s best eateries, from food trucks to fine dining. Sample everything from Cuban sandwiches to Southern barbecue, and discover Orlando’s hidden culinary gems.

18. Experience the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra offers a range of performances throughout the year, from classical concerts to pops and jazz. Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or a newcomer to orchestral music, attending a performance by the Orlando Philharmonic is a cultural highlight.

19. Visit ICON Park

ICON Park is a 20-acre entertainment complex located on International Drive. The park is home to The Wheel, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel offering panoramic views of Orlando. ICON Park also features a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions like Madame Tussauds and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.

20. Explore the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is Orlando’s premier venue for live performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, ballets, and more. The state-of-the-art facility is a cultural hub in downtown Orlando, offering a diverse range of performances year-round.