Orlando is a city in central Florida known for its quirky amusement and water parks.
But there’s more to Orlando than what meets the eye.
The city has several tourist spots, including space exploration centers, gator parks, and fancy shopping malls.
So, if you’re wondering what to do in Orlando, you’ve just hit the jackpot.
My guide breaks down all the best things to do in Orlando, from world-class resort parks to spooky gardens.
You’ll also find practical tips like where to stay in Orlando and the top tours to go on.
Let’s dive in!
Related Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Tampa, Florida
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Orlando Essentials
Top Experiences & Tours in Orlando
- Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch
- Kennedy Space Center: Entry Ticket with Explore Bus Tour
- Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park Admission
Where to Stay in Orlando
Budget
- Cambria Hotel Orlando Airport
- SPOT X Hotel Orlando
- Hampton Inn Orlando-Convention Center International Drive Area
- Clarion Inn & Suites Across From Universal Orlando Resort
Mid-range
- Hilton Vacation Club Grand Beach Orlando
- Marriott Orlando Airport Lakeside
- The Delaney Hotel
- Aloft Orlando Downtown
Luxury
How to Get Around Orlando
Getting around Orlando is pretty straightforward because there are plenty of options.
Renting a car on Rentalcars.com is considered the best way to get around the city, as it gives you the flexibility and convenience to go wherever you want, whenever you want.
Another great option is using Orlando’s public transportation system.
The city has the LYNX Bus Service, which runs through Orlando and nearby suburbs.
If you’d like to stick to exploring the center, the LYMMO provides free rapid bus transit around Downtown Orlando.
Other options that many tourists seem to forget (or forgo) are shuttle services provided by hotels, taxis, e-hailing offers like Uber, and private transfers around Orlando.
Short on time? I recommend booking a Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission!
1. Visit a Theme Park: Walt Disney World / Universal Resort
Experience world-class entertainment, thrilling rides, and a magical atmosphere at one (or two) of Orlando’s most famous theme parks.
Slip into a magical fairytale at the Walt Disney World Resort, where you’ll enjoy entertainment of all kinds, from fun rides to slippery slides.
At the Universal Resort, you’ll get the best of both worlds with entertainment options ranging from arcades to mini-golfing and bowling.
Make sure you don’t miss out on thrilling rides and quirky water slides at the Islands of Adventure theme park.
Check Walt Disney World tickets on Viator!
2. Take a Day Trip From Orlando
There are plenty of things to do in Orlando besides Disney and Universal, but you’ll have to do some driving.
Here are a few day trip ideas that I absolutely love—and surely you will too:
Visit Cocoa Beach
If you’re not laying out on the beach under the sun, take a walk along the Cocoa Beach Pier for some souvenir shopping, or grab lunch at the Pier 62 Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar.
Explore the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Visit this space center for an interesting look into the aerospace industry and its major achievements.
Walk around the Rocket Garden to see how big these space machines are.
Check availability on GetYourGuide!
Visit Clearwater
Home to one of the best white-sand beaches in the USA, Clearwater is a haven for fun in the sun.
The city has waterfront parks, beaches, and high-end hotels and restaurants, to enjoy.
3. Wander Around ICON Park
Considered Orlando’s watering hole, ICON Park is a gathering place for many locals and tourists.
The park provides a lively environment to socialize, play arcade games, and make friends with marine animals at entertainment hubs like the SEA LIFE Aquarium.
After meeting cute sea critters, make your way to the Wheel (or Orlando Eye) to get panoramic views of the city’s skyline and surrounding areas.
Before you go, pop into Madame Tussauds for unique photo ops with Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Get SEA LIFE tickets on Viator!
4. Go on an Everglades Airboat Ride
You cannot visit Florida without seeing one of its famous residents — gators!
Take the Everglades airboat ride and immerse yourself in Orlando’s wilderness.
You’ll enjoy gliding through 4,200 acres of swamps and marshes abundant with greenery and snapping gators.
The tour also takes you through the Wild Florida Airboats and Wildlife Park, where you’ll encounter over 200 different animals, from zebras and cattle to lemurs, sloths, and bobcats.
5. Shop ’Til You Drop at the Orlando Outlet Marketplace
Find great deals on designer brands and popular retailers at the Orlando Outlet Marketplace.
This is a fantastic place to buy souvenirs or gifts for friends and family at home, especially for popular holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and birthdays.
This marketplace hosts a range of top designers and brands, including Calvin Klein, Guess, Prada, Tommy Hilfiger, and so much more.
If you’re a bargain hunter or just satisfied by finding unique items, this is the perfect place to shop ‘til you drop.
6. Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
Experience beautiful views of Orlando and its surroundings from a hot-air balloon ride.
There are many tour providers for hot-air balloon rides in and around Orlando, so you won’t have trouble making a booking.
Bob’s Balloons is such an outfitter, offering a magical experience.
Soar to the skies for a charming sunrise gliding through the serene Orlando air.
The tour is about three hours and takes you over a thousand feet high, with views of the top attractions.
7. Indulge in Southern Cuisine at Soco Thornton Park
Enjoy the flavors of the Sunshine State with a twist at Soco Thornton Park.
Offering an elevated take on southern cuisine, this star-rated restaurant features a diverse menu with a unique twist on classics like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, biscuits, and gravy.
Soco Thornton Park also offers outdoor or patio seating so you can enjoy your meal while taking in the vibe of Orlando.
8. Stroll Through the Harry P. Leu Gardens
Take a leisurely stroll through the Harry P. Leu Gardens.
Dotted with exotic plants, flowers, and historic homes, these tropical gardens offer tranquility and a connection with nature within the city.
The gardens are an excellent place to take a break from the bustling center.
Walk through the Butterfly Garden and spot the colorful critters fluttering about before walking through the Leu House Museum, where an interesting history awaits.
Note: The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with the last tour admission at 12:30 PM.
9. Visit the Orlando Museum of Art
Explore a diverse collection of American, African, and contemporary art at the Orlando Museum of Art.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, the museum offers plenty of exhibitions that will leave you in awe.
This museum showcases both established and emerging artists, offering a dynamic cultural experience.
The best way to get around is via a Museum of Art tour led by an expert guide.
10. Stroll Through Park Avenue in Winter Park
Sitting in the heart of Winter Park, this tree-lined, cobblestone street has lots of museums, restaurants, and the best shopping boutiques in town.
Walk along Park Avenue popping into its different shops, from charming cafés to candy stores and curated boutiques.
Afterward, go to Central Park to catch a free movie presented by Popcorn Flicks in the Park.
11. Grab a Cup of Coffee at Craft & Common
Visit this cute coffee shop to enjoy its delicious range of hot and cold brews. Craft & Common also offers freshly-made sandwiches, like the Vegan Breakfast Sandwich.
This charming café is light and airy, with indoor greenery, making it an Instagrammable spot.
12. Spend a Day at Discovery Cove
Are you a water baby?
Exploring Discovery Cove is one of the fun things to do in Orlando for outdoor activity lovers and anyone who is passionate about marine animals.
Swim with the dolphins at the Dolphin Lagoon, snorkel in the Grand Reef, and relax on stunning beaches.
You’ll also have the opportunity to mingle with other sea critters, such as stingrays, sharks, and flamingos.
I suggest you check out the Freshwater Oasis to see otters, too!
Check availability on GetYourGuide!
13. Explore the Orlando Science Center
Step into the Mesozoic Era at the Orlando Science Center, where you can interact with hands-on exhibits, enjoy planetarium shows, and learn about science in a fun way.
The center has several interactive exhibits, including the DinoDigs, Solar System, and KidsTown.
This Science Center offers engaging activities for visitors of all ages, making it a great family destination in Orlando.
Tour the Science of Guinness World Records exhibit and see if you have what it takes to break (and hold) a world record.
14. Attend a Show at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Experience amazing performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet, at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
The state-of-the-art venue provides an immersive and unforgettable entertainment experience, so make sure you don’t miss out.
From popular plays like Peter Pan to soulful events like An Evening With Gregory Porter, the center is an ideal place to let your hair down and enjoy an Orlando activity without walking.
15. Visit Blue Spring State Park
Famous for its sparkling emerald waters and tropical scenery, Blue Spring State Park is a great place to go swimming, snorkeling, tubing, and paddle boarding.
Hiking and camping are also available here, and if you’re lucky, you may spot an aggregation of manatees.
Note: As of April 1, 2024, water activities like swimming and snorkeling are not available due to construction. But boat tours and paddling are still allowed but only in the St. Johns River.
Next Read: Experience the West Coast with these 10 Best Things To Do In Seattle.
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