50 Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Jessica DeLucia Guides & Tips, Orlando

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Orlando, the Sunshine State's crown jewel, has always been a magnet for families seeking magical experiences. But there's more to this vibrant city than just world-famous theme parks. It's home to some of the best theme parks in the world but it is also home to so many attractions and unique experiences. From family-friendly dinner shows to thrilling zip-lines, there are so many incredibly fun things to do in Orlando besides theme parks! Don’t get us wrong, we love Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and the Orlando theme parks, but for those days that you want to take a break from the moguls, here's a list of 50 things on what to do in Orlando that you and your whole family are going to love.

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Entertainment

While famous for its theme parks, Orlando also boasts many entertainment options for every age and interest. As you visit during your Orlando vacation, be sure to check out all of the entertainment options offered across attractions to keep your whole family entertained during your trip. From towering observation wheels to nature preserves and live-action performances, there's more to this city than meets the eye. Here are some of the best entertainment options you and your family can enjoy during your stay.

  1. Race on Orlando’s best go-kart tracks & fun roller coasters in Fun Spot America
  2. Get the best view of the city with a ride on the The Wheel at ICON Park
  3. Challenge your mind with educational & exciting attractions at Wonder Works
  4. Be amazed by the incredible oddities at Ripley’s Believe It or Not
  5. Go on an epic mini-golf adventure at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
  6. Step back in time and experience a classic Florida town with Old Town Kissimmee
  7. Create your own custom crayon in the Crayola Experience
  8. Explore the galaxy & become an Astronaut for a day at the Kennedy Space Center
  9. Experience the art of Magic at The Great Magic Hall
Entertainment | Things to Do in Orlando


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Nature & Parks

Orlando, Florida is renowned for its vibrant nature and parks that go beyond the boundaries of world-famous theme parks. Your family can connect with nature at one of the many parks to enjoy different flora worldwide while getting some exercise and fresh air. Throughout Orlando and the surrounding areas are sprawling green spaces that can offer you and your family opportunities to connect with nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of a busy family vacation.

  1. Admire 50 acres of gorgeous trees, palms, vines, roses, camellias and more at Harry P. Leu Gardens
  2. Go for a stroll around Lake Eola Park or rent a swan-shaped paddle boat
  3. Explore the ocean and feed marine creatures at SEA Life Orlando Aquarium
  4. Interact with lovely Florida native animals with the Exotic Animal Experience
  5. Learn about Florida’s amazing ecosystem in the Tibet-Butler Preserve
  6. Get up close to unique animals like zebras, elands, and many more at the Safari Wilderness Ranch
  7. Become Trainer-for-a-Day at Gatorland!


Nature Things to Do in Orlando

Shopping

Orlando is a haven for shoppers and culture enthusiasts, boasting an array of premium outlets, farmers' markets, and malls that offer great deals for the whole family. Whether you're hunting for a unique souvenir or planning a leisurely day of shopping, Orlando's many options will exceed your expectations. Welcome to our guide to shopping in Orlando - your gateway to retail paradise!

  1. Go shopping, have a family meal, catch a movie or go on a hot air balloon ride in Disney Springs
  2. Enjoy popular brands at affordable prices at the Orlando Premium Outlets
  3. Find some of your favorite designer brands at Mall at Millennia
  4. Shop in one of the most popular malls in the area, The Florida Mall
  5. Catch a movie, shop around or have dinner next to some of the best attractions at Pointe Orlando
  6. Play golf, buy souvenirs or have lunch at Universal’s City Walk
Shopping Things to Do In Orlando


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Outdoor Activities

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando offers an array of attractions and fun things to do for all ages, from adrenaline-fueled water sports to serene wildlife encounters. Whether you're looking to ride the waves on a high-speed jet ski, gently paddleboard along picturesque waterways, or witness playful dolphins in their natural habitat, Orlando invites you to experience the outdoors like never before.

  1. Rent a Paddleboard at beautiful Wekiva Island or Lake Killarney with Paddleboard Orlando
  2. Enjoy a Florida day trip with Real Florida Adventures
  3. Enjoy the best Orlando Jet Ski experience with Buena Vista Watersports
  4. Swim with some of the happiest and friendliest dolphins with Orlando Dolphin Tours
  5. Explore mangrove tunnels or skim across Everglades grasslands with Florida Everglades Airboat Tour
  6. Pack a picnic and explore the peaceful beauty of Disney Wilderness Preserve
  7. Get a unique view of Orlando with one of the many Helicopter Tours
  8. Enjoy the beautiful Florida weather in ShipWreck Island Water Park
Outdoor Things to do In Orlando


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Museums

From mesmerizing art installations to immersive science exhibits, this city offers many museum experiences that are just as exciting as its world-renowned theme parks. You can make your upcoming family vacation educational and fun with great activities for kids and adults! Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or an art lover, Orlando's museum scene has something captivating to offer. Dive in and discover the rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and scientific exploration that awaits you in the heart of the Sunshine State.

  1. Get up close with some of your favorite celebrities and historical figures at Madame Tussauds Orlando
  2. Investigate, discover, and become curious of Orlando Science Center
  3. Experience America’s history through paintings at the Orlando Museum of Art
  4. See a glimpse of the artifacts and objects found in the Titanic The Artifact Exhibition
  5. Taste different types of chocolate at The World of Chocolate Museum
  6. Check out the Tiffany collection at Morse Museum of American Art
Museums in Orlando

Concerts & Shows

Orlando offers family-friendly options for live music, shows, and dinner theaters, offering immersive experiences that transport you to different worlds. The city's offerings cater to diverse tastes and interests, from swashbuckling pirate adventures to exquisite fine dining paired with mesmerizing performances. Here are some of the best concerts and shows your family will love.

  1. Enjoy an interactive, entertaining, and hilarious dinner show with The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show
  2. Knock three times and enter the mysterious world of 1931 Chicago at Capone's Dinner & Show
  3. Become part of the biggest battle between knights at Medieval Times
  4. Catch a Broadway Show at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
  5. Set sail and go on a thrilling and savory adventure at the Pirate’s Dinner Adventure
  6. Become a detective and solve the big mystery in Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show
Shows in orlando


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Thrills & Adventure

Beyond the world-renowned theme parks, a universe of thrills awaits that cater to every adrenaline level. Your family will surely enjoy one of the many thrilling experiences, from go-cart racing to indoor skydiving. Orlando has a wide selection of thrills and adventures for your family to enjoy together. Immerse yourself in the thrill of the unexpected and embrace the adventure in every corner of this vibrant city.

  1. Have an indoor skydiving experience like no other at iFly Orlando
  2. Bullseye! Test your skills in axe throwing - one of the world’s fastest growing sports at Bigfoot Axe Throwers
  3. Solve puzzles and riddles and try to escape at Escapology or The Escape Game
  4. Race against your friends and become the ultimate champion at K1 Speed Indoor Kart Racing
  5. Take on the challenges of an aqua park obstacle course at Nona Adventure Park
  6. Ride through 220 acres with an ATV, buggy or mucky duck with Revolution Adventures
  7. Enjoy a 1,200-foot long high-flying journey on the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line
  8. Step inside brain-bending walkthrough exhibits that test your optical understandings at Museum of Illusions
Thrilling Things to do in Orlando

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Enjoy the Best That Orlando Has to Offer!

We've discovered a treasure trove of 50 unique experiences catering to every interest, age group, and thrill level. From mesmerizing events that spark curiosity to attractions that fuel the adrenaline, and tranquil locations offering fresh air, Orlando is a vibrant playground for the entire family. Plan a few days at convenient resort destinations like Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa to seamlessly adventure around Orlando and experience the “hidden gems” outside the theme parks. Central Florida has so much for you and your family to experience that it is no surprise that you will indeed have an unforgettable adventure.

So, come and uncover the magic of Orlando - a city where every day holds a new adventure, and every moment becomes a cherished memory!

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