The Best Things to Do in Orlando: The Definitive Guide2024 -

Orlando, Florida: the dream destination for all, filled with world-class theme parks, entertainment galore, and the sunniest of dispositions. Orlando appeals to the nature lover, the thrill-seeker, and the one who feels comfy in a deck chair at a proper distance from reality. Read on for an overview of the best things to do in Orlando, from the most popular tourists’ attractions to some off-the-beaten-path hangouts. Let’s go!

Explore the Iconic Theme Parks of Orlando

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World represents Orlando and one of the top attractions in a city whose visit is imperative. On land spanning more than 25,000 acres exist four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. All these manifest an amazing experience for the tourist by meeting beloved Disney characters, exploring different cultures, and taking some thrilling rides.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Highlights:

Magic Kingdom: Featuring the iconic Cinderella Castle, this land will transport you back in time with some of the way-old rides and attractions, like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.
EPCOT: Both Future World and World Showcase. Be sure to take in attractions like Test Track and Spaceship Earth.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Take a journey into the land of films with attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Observe wildlife at the Kilimanjaro Safaris, and be blown away by the mystical Pandora – The World of Avatar.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort entails an exceptional, world-class array of theme parks and attractions. This consists of Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and the Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.

Highlights:

Universal Studios Florida: Experience the magic—rides include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Diagon Alley and the heart-pounding, electrifying ride dubbed the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster.
Islands of Adventure: Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, the heart-pounding Jurassic Park River Adventure, and the amazing Hulk Coaster.
Volcano Bay: Relax and have fun with water-based activities ranging from slides to a lazy river and the thrilling Krakatau Aqua Coaster.

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Fun Beyond the Theme Parks

Icon Park

Icon Park is a great place to stay in Orlando, apart from the theme parks. It is full of attractions: The Wheel—an observation wheel that rises 400 feet into the skyline over the city for beautiful views; Madame Tussauds; and the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.

Highlights:

The Wheel: A 400-foot observational wheel in Orlando.
Madame Tussauds: Offers visitors a taste of the life of the rich and famous through true-to-life replicas of celebrities, sports legends, world leaders, and more.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Explore underwater habitats and come nose to nose with marine life.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Discover the best things to do in Orlando!

Gatorland

It is another unique attraction that highlights the wild side of Florida – particularly alligators and crocodiles. On this 110-acre park, you can enjoy educational shows, zip-line thrills, and rare white alligators.

Some main attractions include:

Alligator Breeding Marsh: Watch hundreds of alligators from one place in their natural habitat.
Screamin’ Gator Zip Line: Enjoy this amazing zip line ride high over the alligators and crocodiles.
Gator Night Shine: If you would love to catch all the action gators take part in, well, after dark, this is it.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

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Nature and the Outdoors

Leu Gardens

The Harry P. Leu Gardens are a 50-acre botanical paradise in the center of Orlando and showcase so much more than just half-dozen colorful and diverse plant collections that include roses, butterflies, and palms.

Highlighted:

Rose Garden: Walk past beautiful blooms of roses.
Butterfly Garden: Admire colored butterflies fluttering around.
Historical Home Tours: Visit the Leu House Museum, a historic house from the 19th century.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Wekiwa Springs State Park

For some outdoor activity, visit Wekiwa Springs State Park; probably the best use of crystal-clear springs, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife. It’s the best place to swim, kayak, or hike.

Highlights:

Swimming and Kayaking: Rejuvenate yourself with the refreshing waters of Wekiwa Springs.
Hiking Trails: Make the most of the scenic beauty of Florida through the many miles of trails.
Wildlife Viewing: Observe along with the native wildlife, including deer, turkey’s and lots of varied birdlife.

Have Fun with Family-Friendly Activities

Fun Spot America

Fun Spot America is a popular amusement park that houses various rides and attractions, appealing to visitors of all ages. It houses a wooden roller coaster and go-kart tracks.

Highlights:

White Lightning: Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster is sure to provide you with plenty of fun.
Go-Karts: The go-karts navigate multi-level tracks and spiral, which include curves and allow you to get a little wild.
Arcade and Rides: Go ahead and hit bumper cars or a Ferris wheel, among the tons of kiddy and family rides that this place offers.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is such a good place for learning while enjoying together with the whole family. It features hands-on activities, science programming, and a planetarium.

Highlights:

KidsTown: An interactive area that allows kids to learn
Exhibit Halls: There are a lot of exhibits you will find interesting, and they teach science and technology in creative ways.
Planetarium: You are taken through some of the best features of the universe.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Art and Culture

Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art is one of the fine cultural institutions that boasts its rich collection of artworks. The collections include American art, African art, and Contemporary art.

Highlights

American Art: Major American artists
African Art: Rich collection of African artifacts and textiles
Temporary Exhibitions: Museum features temporary traveling exhibitions with new insights

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

For lovers of performing arts, from Broadway to concerts and even ballet, the Dr. Phillips Center has it all.

Highlights:

Broadway Shows: Enjoy one of a kind presentations in outstanding surroundings.
Concerts: Indulge in melodious music and orchestras.
Dance and Ballet: Experience one of a kind dance renditions and ballets.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Savor the Diverse Flavors of Orlando

International Drive

I-Drive, more commonly known as International Drive, is a strip full of dining, shopping, and entertainment. It’s good for exploring Orlando’s eclectic dining scene.

Things to Do:

Dining: With a plethora of fine dining options, it will surprise you by making eating one of the activities.
Shopping: Unique shops and outlets for purchasing souvenirs/gifts.
Entertainment: Some cool attractions like escape rooms, mini-golf, and live shows.

East End Market

East End Market is really a foodie’s paradise, bringing together local artisans, chefs, and farmers under one roof. It’s a great place to try fresh, locally-sourced foods as well as some one-of-a-kind creations of the culinary variety.

Highlights:

Artisan Foods: Tasty gourmet sandwiches and pastries
Market Hall: Fresh produce, handcrafted goods, specialty items
Events: Cooking classes, workshops, community events

Free Things to Do in Orlando

Disney Springs

Disney Springs provides many free activities and entertainment. Stroll around themed areas, enjoy live music playing, or window shop unique stores.

Highlights:

Live Music: Free local musician performances
Themed Areas: Various areas like Marketplace and West Side
Window Shopping: Check out some unique shops and boutiques for free.

Lake Eola Park

You are going to love spending time in Lake Eola Park, which is downtown’s oasis. It features a scenic lake, walking paths, and swan boats.

Highlights

Swan Boats — Rent a swan boat… but pedal it via paddle… and take it on the lake.
Walking Paths — Picturesque paths surround the lake.
Events — There are lots of free events, including concerts and festivals. This will be an ideal destination for a family vacation as there is plenty to do in Orlando with its many parks. From Walt Disney World’s pulsating rides to the reimagined settings of Universal Orlando Resort, it has a bit of everything. Within these parks, there are various themes and attractions to make it memorable for each member. Icon Park does have a real one-of-a-kind blend of entertainment, dining, and relaxation—offering visitors a great place to enjoy the city sans larger park hustle and bustle.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

For families who want to do more than just visit the many different theme parks, Orlando offers a number of unique experiences with different themes. Leu Gardens is an oasis that seems to bring serenity, featuring beautiful landscapes with historical home tours. Wekiwa Springs State Park gives a way to get back to nature with swimming, kayaking, and hiking activities available. These parks will delight any family looking for some outdoor time and beauty in Florida.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path in terms of attractions, consider Gatorland for some excitement with its alligator shows and zip line cruises. It delivers a fun yet educational look at Florida’s native wildlife. For a good mix of fun and education, take the family to the Orlando Science Center. It’s got interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, with a planetarium even adults will be pretty impressed with. With so many diverse attractions, Orlando really does have something for the perfect family vacation.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

FAQs About Visiting Orlando

What can you do in Orlando for free?

Top free activities in Orlando are visiting Disney Springs, walking around Lake Eola Park, and experiencing fresh gardens during some free admission days at Harry P. Leu Gardens.

What theme parks are in Orlando?

Orlando is the entertainment capital of the world and home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

What is Orlando known for besides theme parks?

Besides the string of theme parks, one can spend a fun day at Icon Park, Gatorland, and Leu Gardens and enjoy the artistic creations at Orlando Museum of Art and Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Where are the best roller coasters in Orlando?

The peak of roller coasters in Orlando is located at Universal Orlando Resort, Fun Spot America, and SeaWorld Orlando. Among the best are The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, and Mako.

What are some family-friendly activities in Orlando?

Family-friendly activities in Orlando include Fun Spot America and the Orlando Science Center, together with visiting the attractions surrounding Icon Park and Gatorland.

Here is a city that promises nothing short of excitement, adventure, and experiences of a lifetime. Be it your exploration of the best of what to do in its mega theme parks, bringing yourself closer to nature, or simply reveling in the local cuisine, every moment holds the promise of something new. So, pack your bags because it’s time to experience Orlando!

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