60+ Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Family Friendly Activities

1. Go Back in Time at Old Town

Old Town is a retro-style entertainment district with over 60 shops, family restaurants, and classic attractions. Kids love the Ferris wheel, while adults enjoy the vintage car shows and live music. It’s a great mix of nostalgia and family fun.

2. Visit Gatorland

Gatorland, the ‘Alligator Capital of the World,’ lets you see thousands of alligators and crocodiles up close. Enjoy live shows, animal exhibits, and even zip-lining over the breeding marsh

3 Ride the Rides at Fun Spot America

This family-owned amusement park offers roller coasters, bumper cars, arcade games, and go-karts. It’s smaller than the big-name parks, but that means shorter lines and better value for families looking for thrills.

4. Rent a Polaris Slingshot

Experience the ultimate joyride and rent a unique Polaris Slingshot vehicle. This car/motorbike hybrid is super cool, and you’ll love feeling the breeze in your hair as you take to the open road in this 3-wheeled roadster. Get ready to be the center of attention!

5. Learn Wakeboarding at Florida Ski School

Located in Windermere, Florida Ski School is the place to try wakeboarding or waterskiing for the first time. Instructors start with land-based lessons before guiding you on the water, making it fun for beginners and adventurous teens.

6. Fly in a Combat Jet (Tampa)

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, make the trip to Tampa where you can soar above the Gulf of Mexico in a real L-39 Albatros fighter jet. No flying experience is required, your co-pilot instructor takes care of the controls while you enjoy the ride of a lifetime.

7 Go Jet Skiing on Orlando’s Lakes

Head to Extreme Jet Ski of Orlando, just minutes from Disney, and rent a jet ski for a thrilling ride across the open water. It’s the perfect mix of excitement and sightseeing on Orlando’s beautiful lakes.

8. Play Mini Golf at Congo River Golf

Congo River Golf has multiple Orlando locations where you can putt through caves, waterfalls, and jungle settings. The highlight? Kids can feed live alligators on-site, making it a mini golf experience like no other.

9. Tee Off at Hollywood Drive-In Golf

Located at Universal’s CityWalk, this glow-in-the-dark mini golf attraction features two courses designed with vintage sci-fi and horror movie themes. It’s quirky, fun, and family-friendly, with plenty of Instagram-worthy photo spots.

10. Try Paddleboarding in Winter Park

Take a guided paddleboarding tour through Winter Park’s chain of lakes, surrounded by lush scenery and beautiful homes. Beginners can book lessons, while experienced paddlers can rent equipment for a peaceful day on the water.

11. Race at I-Drive NASCAR Indoor Karting

Take on Central Florida’s fastest indoor go-kart track, complete with hairpin turns and high-speed straights. After racing, you can relax at the Grandstand Restaurant, which serves classic American food and drinks.

12. Test Your Wits at Lockbusters Escape Game

Located on International Drive, Lockbusters offers immersive escape rooms where groups solve themed puzzles in under 60 minutes. Choose from adventures like Pirate’s Treasure, Bank Heist, or The Collector, a fun challenge for families with teens.

13. Stay at a Luxury Resort with Villas & Games Rooms

Upgrade your Orlando vacation by booking a stay at a luxury resort or villa. Enjoy private pools, themed bedrooms, immersive games rooms, villas with bowling alleys, and access to world-class resort amenities. This makes your stay an attraction in itself and offers endless entertainment for families and groups.

14. . Bounce at AirHeads Trampoline Arena

With more than 100 interconnected trampolines, AirHeads is a paradise for kids who love to jump. Families can also enjoy trampoline basketball, dodgeball, and obstacle games for an energetic afternoon.

15 Climb and Zipline at Tree Trek Adventure Park

Tree Trek Adventure Park in Kissimmee is an outdoor obstacle course featuring Tarzan swings, hanging nets, rope bridges, and a massive 425-foot zipline. It’s an active day out that combines fitness with family fun.

Sightseeing & Outdoor Adventures

16 Take an Airboat Tour in Kissimmee

Explore Florida’s wetlands on an airboat with Wild Florida or Spirit of the Swamp. Spot alligators, turtles, and native birds while gliding through marshes for a thrilling and educational adventure.

17 Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

Cruise through Winter Park’s canals and lakes on a guided tour, passing historic homes, lush landscapes, and hidden wildlife. Perfect for families, couples, and photographers looking for scenic views.

18. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Discover 50 acres of tropical and subtropical plants, roses, and exotic trees. Enjoy walking paths, butterfly gardens, and seasonal events in Orlando’s peaceful botanical oasis.

19. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve

Hike through pine flatwoods, swamps, and lakes at this serene preserve in Windermere. The easy-to-moderate trails are perfect for birdwatching, family walks, or quiet reflection.

20. Lake Eola Park

Visit this iconic downtown Orlando park for swan boat rides, a playground for kids, and scenic walking paths. The park is also home to regular outdoor concerts, markets, and festivals.

21. Wekiwa Springs State Park

Swim in crystal-clear spring waters, rent a kayak, or hike scenic trails through natural forests. This park offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for visitors of all ages.

22. Rock Springs at Kelly Park

Float down a spring-fed river on an inner tube while surrounded by cypress trees and wildlife. The cool, clear water makes this one of Orlando’s most refreshing natural attractions.

23. Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park

Climb, swing, and zipline through elevated obstacles in Kissimmee. With courses suitable for children and adults, this outdoor adventure combines fitness, fun, and a touch of adrenaline.

24. Safari Wilderness Ranch

Take a guided safari tour through this 260-acre ranch, feeding giraffes, camels, zebras, and exotic birds. It’s an unforgettable hands-on wildlife experience just outside Orlando.

25. Mead Botanical Garden

Explore quiet walking trails, butterfly gardens, and boardwalks at this hidden gem in Winter Park. Ideal for families and anyone looking to connect with nature in the city.

26. Blue Spring State Park

Visit a manatee refuge during the winter months, kayak, hike, or enjoy picnicking in this lush, wildlife-rich park just a short drive from Orlando.

27. Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

Drive or bike along scenic trails to see birds, alligators, and native plants. A perfect low-cost adventure for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

28. Canoeing at Shingle Creek

Paddle through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades, surrounded by cypress trees, wildlife, and peaceful waters. Guided tours or rentals are available for beginners and pros alike.

29. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

Take a thrilling ride through marshes and swamps at sunset or nighttime, spotting local wildlife and experiencing the beauty of Florida’s wetlands up close.

30. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soar above Orlando’s lakes, forests, and neighborhoods for breathtaking views at sunrise. Balloon rides offer a peaceful yet exhilarating way to see the city from above.

Unique Things To Do In Orlando

31. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Just an hour from Orlando, explore real rockets, space shuttles, and astronaut exhibits. If you time your visit right, you might even witness a live rocket launch for an unforgettable experience.

32. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Walk through a 360-degree ocean tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Exhibits highlight marine life conservation and provide hands-on experiences for children.

33. WonderWorks Orlando

Step inside an upside-down building full of interactive science exhibits, illusion rooms, and physical challenges. It’s a mix of education and entertainment that surprises every visitor.

34. Madame Tussauds Orlando

Take selfies with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, sports stars, and historical icons. A perfect indoor activity for families or rainy days.

35. Chocolate Kingdom Factory Tour

See how chocolate is made from bean to bar, enjoy interactive exhibits, and customize your own chocolate creation to take home, fun for kids and adults alike.

36. Crayola Experience

A colorful, interactive attraction where kids can create custom crayons, explore art stations, and enjoy family-friendly games. Ideal for creative and educational fun.

37. The Wheel at ICON Park

Ride 400 feet above Orlando on this giant observation wheel, offering panoramic city views and glimpses of nearby lakes, parks, and attractions.

38. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando

Discover oddities, illusions, and bizarre artifacts from around the world. This quirky museum entertains with interactive exhibits and fun photo opportunities.

39. ICON Park Entertainment Complex

Beyond the wheel, ICON Park offers restaurants, bars, live music, and entertainment — all in a pedestrian-friendly, family-friendly environment.

40. Giraffe Ranch Safari

Interact with giraffes, camels, and other exotic animals on this hands-on safari tour just outside Orlando. Perfect for families and animal lovers alike. ##41. Skeletons: Museum of Osteology Explore hundreds of real skeletons from humans and animals around the world. This unique museum provides educational fun for curious minds of all ages.

42. Museum of Illusions Orlando

Step into mind-bending optical illusions and interactive rooms designed for photos, fun, and learning. A great indoor option for families or couples. ##43. Orlando Science Center Enjoy hands-on exhibits about space, dinosaurs, and science experiments. Includes giant-screen films, live demonstrations, and interactive zones for all ages.

44. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

Step aboard a full-scale replica of the Titanic, exploring recovered artifacts, recreated rooms, and history exhibits that bring the story of the ship to life.

45. American Ghost Adventures

Take a guided ghost tour through historic Orlando sites, exploring haunted buildings and learning the city’s eerie stories. Perfect for teens and adults looking for thrills.

46. Bioluminescent Kayaking Tour

Paddle through glowing waters at night on a magical bioluminescent tour. Watch tiny organisms light up with every stroke, creating a truly unforgettable Orlando evening experience.

47. Capone’s Dinner & Show

Step into a 1930s Chicago speakeasy for dinner and live entertainment. Guests enjoy singing, dancing, comedy, and gangster-themed performances alongside a delicious Italian buffet.

48. House of Blues at Disney Springs

Catch live music at one of America’s most iconic venues. From blues and jazz to rock and pop, the House of Blues also serves southern-inspired cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

49. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Experience a two-hour medieval jousting tournament with knights, sword fights, and horsemanship, paired with a four-course feast, fun for families and adults alike.

50. Orlando Improv Comedy Club

Laugh the night away with nationally recognized stand-up comedians and improv performers. Open mic nights also showcase local talent in a cozy, energetic environment.

51. Kings Dining & Entertainment

Bowling, billiards, arcade games, and cocktails all in one stylish venue. Perfect for groups or date nights, offering both entertainment and dining in a lively setting.

52. Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show

Enjoy an interactive show combining magic, comedy, and audience participation, all while dining on pizza and casual fare. A fun, family-friendly evening activity.

53. BB King’s Blues Club

Catch live blues music and enjoy southern-style dining in a relaxed, vibrant venue at Disney Springs. A great option for adults or date nights.

54. Universal CityWalk

Orlando’s premier nightlife hub with themed restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and live entertainment. Ideal for adults or older teens looking for a night out.

55. Howl at the Moon Piano Bar

High-energy dueling piano shows with sing-alongs, audience participation, and cocktails. Perfect for adults seeking interactive nightlife and fun music experiences.

56. Disney Springs

Stroll through Disney Springs for free and enjoy live music, unique shopping, and beautiful scenery. Even without a theme park ticket, you can experience entertainment, dining, and photo-worthy spots.

57. Lake Nona Sculpture Garden

Explore this outdoor art space featuring modern sculptures and installations. A peaceful, visually striking experience that’s perfect for photography or a casual walk.

58. Big Tree Park

Visit one of Florida’s oldest and largest cypress trees, over 1,000 years old. Walk the boardwalk, enjoy a picnic, and connect with nature without spending a dime.

59. Visit Central Park in Winter Park

Enjoy a stroll through Winter Park’s beautiful Central Park. Relax on the benches, have a picnic, and take in the lush gardens, fountains, and scenic walking paths — perfect for a free, family-friendly outing.

60. ICON Park Outdoor Spaces

While rides cost money, walking around ICON Park is free. Enjoy live entertainment, street performers, and outdoor dining in a lively atmosphere suitable for all ages.