Adventurous Things to do in Orlando

Published: July 18, 2024

There are so many interesting things to do in Orlando, it’s hard to know where to start. Forever exciting and full of life, the City Beautiful has much to offer for the adventurous explorer – you just need to know where to look! The city’s world-famous theme parks are an absolute must-visit for thrillseekers coming to the area. There are a lot of other entertainment opportunities at hand too, for those just looking to relax. If you want to get active, make sure to check out some of the area’s beautiful green spaces. So, if you’re planning to make the trip have a read through our guide of the best things to see and experience in the area.

Have Fun Outdoors

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Calling all outdoorsy types! If you’re looking explore the natural beauty of Orlando, look no further than Disney Wilderness Preserve. Situated just south of the city, this spot provides the perfect way to view animals in their natural habitat in a kind and considerate way. Covering over 12, 000 acres of lakes and flatwoods, the reserve offers a fantastic respite from the city. This place is especially well-recognized for its diverse array of plants and wildlife, with over 1,000 species thriving on its premises. At the park, you can hike along the footpaths or take off-road buggy tours to learn more about the environment around you. In addition, the park offers a lot of exciting recreational activities, including swimming, movie nights, and campfire activities. No matter what you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great!

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For those looking to kick things up a notch, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Bringing the thrill of exercise into a beautiful outdoor space, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park provides a thoroughly unique entertainment experience for you and your loved ones. Built into the natural pine forests of Kissimmee, this invigorating aerial obstacle course works to test your balance, strength, and sense of adventure. Travel treetop to treetop on Tarzan ropes. Fly through the trees on daring ziplines. Challenge your friends with 50-foot-high climbing ladders. As exciting as it is unique, this one would make the perfect family day trip.

Make a Splash

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If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then you just might enjoy the next item on our list. A fantastic fit for Orlando weather, Universal’s Volcano Bay is the perfect tropical-themed waterpark that wins our vote. Not exactly one for the faint-hearted, this place offers a broad variety of edgy and exhilarating rides to be enjoyed. Make a splash on the Taniwha Tubes. Test your limits through many twists and turns on the Krakatau Aqua Coaster. For the bravest of guests only, brave a 125-foot drop on the Ko'okiri Body Plunge. The waterpark also has a beach area, cabanas, and many great food options. With so much do and experience, Universal Bay makes for the ultimate action-packed family day out. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without a huge smile spread across your face.

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Seated along the southeastern coastline, the city can get pretty hot and sometimes humid throughout the year. Thankfully, the Orlando Watersports Complex provides a great way to take a break from the heat with a wide array of activities to keep you entertained. A great stop for sporty types and nature lovers alike, this place is recognized as one of the largest wakeboard parks within the United States. The park offers a whole host of exciting and challenging watersports, from waterskiing and kneeboarding to paddleboarding and boating. If you’re a beginner, there’s no need to panic – you’ll have experienced professionals to guide you along, as well as the right equipment to ensure personal safety. If you’re looking for a new to appreciate the great outdoors, this place has it down.

Have a Blast!

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Of course, when visiting Orlando, you’re likely to be making a stop at some of its famous theme parks – it's practically a requirement, really. Still, with so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming to pick a spot – but that’s where we come in! A resounding favorite for millions of visitors to the Sunshine State, the Magic Kingdom is recognized for being one of the most popular theme parks in the world. A total classic for families and group travellers alike, this place pretty much has it all. With an impressive offering of over 40 attractions, rides, and shopping destinations, you’ll never be bored here; more likely, you’ll be hard-pressed to fit everything in! Favorites include Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Country Bear Jamboree. Staying true to its reputation, the park brings the magic of Disney to life for visitors of all ages.

As one of the busiest cities in the United States, sometimes it can be difficult to fit in all that Orlando has to offer. Luckily, Bob’s Balloons offers visitors the opportunity to admire it all from way up high. Yup, you heard us. Take to the skies in a hot air balloon for an exciting one-of-a-kind experience. Float peacefully over the bustling streets and wondrous swamplands whilst spotting famous attractions as you go. Whilst you fly, learn more about the city from your pilot. A thoroughly exciting and unique experience, the hot air balloon provides a new perspective of the city. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture snapshots of yourself in the sky!

Orlando is a city made for adventure. With a fantastic mix of urban and nature attractions, you’ll always find something to keep you busy. The city’s world-class amusement parks typically come to mind when people first think of the City Beautiful. Still, if you do your research, you’ll find that there’s a lot more to be discovered. If you’re looking to explore the wilderness, Orlando presents no shortage of unique activities set against the backdrop of its remarkable flatwoods and swamplands. For sports enthusiasts, there are countless training venues to be enjoyed. And for those who are looking for something a little different, the city goes all out with a broad range of one-of-a-kind experiences and day trips to be enjoyed. Wherever your interests may lie, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Visiting LEGOLAND® Florida Resort - Discount Admission, Tips & More

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven, just 45 minutes from Orlando and Tampa, is a multi-day vacation destination designed for children 2-12 years old. This super popular resort includes an interactive, 150-acre theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, a world-famous botanical garden and the 5-acre LEGOLAND Water Park. You'll also find the LEGOLAND Hotel, located just steps from the theme park entrance. This unique lodging option features 152 rooms and suites, each with its own LEGO® theme and some with beautiful views of nearby Lake Eloise. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, packed full of tips for visiting, ways to save on admission, other nearby attractions, and much more. How to get LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – LEGOLAND® Florida Resort admission is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. See all available Orlando passes, attractions & prices. Families with kids won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore all that LEGOLAND Florida Resort has to offer. Tips for Visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort Be sure to download the Quest to LEGOLAND® app, the brand new GPS adventure game from LEGOLAND Florida Resort. It offers games and trivia for kids as you travel towards the park. If you are visiting with older teens, be aware that this theme park is geared more towards kids between the ages of 3 – 10 (although anyone with a passion for LEGOs will get a kick out of the building activities). Parking at LEGOLAND Florida Resort is $17, but you can save $2 if you purchase parking in advance online. Scope out the park map before you visit to plan your itinerary. Save money on admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort with your pass! If you’re traveling with large bags or other items, lockers are available for rental. Because the park is geared towards children, there are a number of height requirements you should take into consideration before deciding what rides to see. Given that scattered thunderstorms are common in Central Florida, save some indoor attractions or shopping time for the inevitable afternoon rain. If you have really small children, bring your own stroller to avoid paying the rental fee. Small snacks and water can be brought into the park; other food items can be easily purchased once inside. When is the best time to visit LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Like most theme parks, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will be busiest in the heart of the afternoon. Arrive early in the morning and miss out on the longest lines for the first part of your day. What to bring to LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Comfortable shoes. You'll be walking quite a bit around this sizable park. Sunblock and a hat. Florida is notorious for giving people sunburn even on cloudy days. A bathing suit, for the water park. Trust us -- you'll end up getting soaked even if you don't go on rides with the kids. A camera or phone. You'll want to capture the looks of complete and utter joy on your kids' faces. Money for souvenirs and lunch. There are plenty of places in the park to shop and dine. Minifigures! You can exchange them at the park for a new and exciting minifigure. What is there to do at LEGOLAND Florida Resort? The wonders are endless at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, but here is a selection of our favorite rides and attractions in the park. Be sure to check out LEGO NINJAGO World and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat too. LEGO® NINJAGO® World LEGO NINJAGO World is a hot new component of LEGOLAND. Kids are invited to enter a magical martial arts kingdom where you become the ninja in your very own LEGO®NINJAGO® [NIN-JAH-GO] adventure. LEGO NINJAGO World is an immersive area filled with several hands-on, outdoor activities where kids can sharpen their ninja skills before the ultimate showdown on LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, a dazzling new attraction that blends 3D computer animation, “4D” effects and groundbreaking technology never seen outside a LEGOLAND theme park. LEGOLAND Beach Retreat Designed with the same attention to detail and kid-centric features that made LEGOLAND Hotel an immediate hit, LEGOLAND Beach Retreat is a village-style vacation resort with 83 beach-themed bungalows offering 166 separate rooms, each with whimsical LEGO décor inside and out. The brightly colored bungalows are grouped into 13 “coves” named after popular LEGO Minifigures. Each includes an outdoor play area with fun and challenging elements, all within view of the bungalows’ shaded patios, where mom and dad can relax while kids play. Located about a half-mile from the theme park entrance, the site also features a central swimming pool and sandy play area, a buffet restaurant, pool bar, a giant LEGO-inspired lighthouse with a real rotating beacon and picturesque views of Lake Dexter. LEGO World of Chima Based upon the immensely popular line of toys presented by Cartoon Network, the World of Chima is filled with tons of great rides and experiences. Splash through an interactive water ride with the whole family, undertake the monumental Quest for CHI, race through SpeedzorzTM Arena, roam through Cragger’s Swamp, and immerse yourself in a 4-D movie experience. Miniland USA Adults and kids alike will get a kick out of this exhibit, which contains scale replicas of famous cities, buildings, and monuments from around the country. Featured local attractions in this Miniland include Daytona International Speedway and the Kennedy Space Center, as well as an homage to the state of Florida. You'll also see Miniland construction imitating New York City, California, Las Vegas, and more. Here is also where you'll find the LEGO Star Wars exhibits! DUPLO® Valley This area is specially designed for the littlest of guests, featuring a train, a mini tractor ride, and a water play area. Toddlers will also enjoy a DUPLO Farm and the DUPLO Tot Spot. There’s even a snack center and daycare in here. LEGO Kingdoms LEGO Kingdoms will bring you back in time to the medieval era when knights roamed the earth fighting dragons and saving damsels in distress. Explore the LEGOLAND castle, engage in the Royal Joust, crawl into the Forestman’s Hideout, be thrilled on the Dragon Coaster, and climb aboard the Merlin’s Challenge train. Land of Adventure Explore long-lost tombs and search for treasure in the Land of Adventure. Then, hop aboard the Safari Trek for a tour of life-size LEGO animals. Roam the maze in Pharaoh’s Revenge, and launch high into the air on the Beetle Bounce. There’s no end to the excitement in this part of the park. Imagination Zone This region of the park really brings out the creativity and ingenuity in kids. Kids can build their own LEGO cars, construct and program LEGO MindstormsTM robots, and immerse themselves in the world of LEGO’s Hero Factory line. Plus, you can see some of the best LEGO sculptures in the world here! Pirate’s Cove Who doesn’t love a good splash fight? LEGOLAND’s Pirate’s Cove features a one-of-a-kind water ski and stunt show in which LEGO-clad pirates have taken over Lake Eloise. LEGO City Kids can play at being an adult in the LEGO City, without any of the downsides! Be a firefighter or policeman and save the day at the Rescue Academy. Hop aboard a small-scale driving course, fly through the air on a steel coaster in the Flying School, and captain your own ship in the Boating School. Heartlake City One of the newer regions of the park, Heartlake City is an area designed especially for the female LEGO fans in the family. Based on the popular LEGO Friends line, this destination is filled with fun adventures for kids of all ages. Enjoy a horse-themed disc coaster on Mia’s Riding Adventure, take a photo at Stephanie’s Heartlake News Desk, and explore specialty shops. Botanical Gardens One of my personal favorite areas of LEGOLAND is the Botanical Gardens. Here you'll find a historical garden filled with cypress trees and other native plants. It's been restored to its original glory and re-imagined as a resource for curious kids looking to learn about the environment around them in Florida. You'll also find lush flowers like camellias, azaleas, and more. There's even a tree that was planted in 1939, a Banyan tree that still watches over the garden. What attractions are near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Because LEGOLAND Florida Resort is centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, there are a number of attractions within driving distance if you want to fit a morning at LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a larger itinerary. Here are a few of the closest. Little kids will love a visit to the charming Green Meadows Petting Farm, a great interactive zoo-like experience. Nature-lovers won’t want to miss out on a scenic nature tour by Boggy Creek Airboats. Looking for more theme park rides? Check out Fun Spot America for some great attractions and rides. How much more Florida can you get than the famous Gatorland? Pay a visit to this unique adventure park for the experience of a lifetime. Looking for more information about the area? Check out our Orlando neighborhoods guide. What attractions are near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Because LEGOLAND Florida Resort is centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, there are a number of attractions within driving distance if you want to fit a morning at LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a larger itinerary. Here are a few of the closest. Little kids will love a visit to the charming Green Meadows Petting Farm, a great interactive zoo-like experience. Nature-lovers won’t want to miss out on a scenic nature tour by Boggy Creek Airboats. Looking for more theme park rides? Check out Fun Spot America for some great attractions and rides. How much more Florida can you get than the famous Gatorland? Pay a visit to this unique adventure park for the experience of a lifetime. Looking for more information about the area? Check out our Orlando neighborhoods guide. What is there to eat near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Given the scope of the park and the fact that you’ll probably spend an entire day there, it makes the most sense to eat in the park. Here’s a selection of the kinds of dining options available at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The Market Restaurant is open the entire time the park is, and serves healthy options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including gluten free and vegetarian fare. If you’re in the mood for a treat, check out Granny’s Apple Fries for delicious things. Trying to please picky eaters? Then head to the Pizza and Pasta Buffet for some good old-fashioned carbs. There’s even a salad bar for the health-conscious. Another dessert option is Sunny’s Ice Cream Shop – perfect for hot summer afternoons. If the kids loved the Land of Adventure, treat them to a dinner at Castle Burger. Who says no to fried chicken? No one at Fried Chicken Co. Looking for a sandwich option? Try I-Zone Paninis or Lakeside Sandwich Co. Need to Know Hours Hours vary seasonally; check the operating calendar for the dates of your visit. Address & Directions One LEGOLAND Way Winter Haven, FL 33884 Driving Directions: From Orlando, take I-4 WEST to exit 55 (US Highway 27 South). Turn right off U.S. Highway 27 at State Road 540/Cypress Gardens Boulevard. Park is four miles on the left. Public Transportation: Round trip transportation from the I-Drive 360 at 8350 Universal Blvd, Orlando 32819. Note: Shuttle service is by reservation only and reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Call (877) 350-5346 and hit * to make a reservation. Save on Admission with Go City® Remember, a pass for Orlando with Go City® is one of the best choices for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes LEGOLAND® Florida Resort tickets, plus admission to dozens more top attractions. You'll make great savings on top sightseeing tours, and popular activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price. Families with kids won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore all that LEGOLAND Florida Resort has to offer.
Katie Sagal
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Escape the Chill: Hot Orlando Adventures for Snowy Days

Picture this: you touch down in Orlando, suitcase full of T-shirts and sunscreen, and then—surprise!—the weather takes a snowy turn. Snow days in Central Florida may be a once-in-a-blue-moon event, but the city switches gears with flair and a hint of mischief. You won’t need to huddle indoors or miss a single adventure. While the rest of the country bundles up, Orlando transforms wintry weather into a one-of-a-kind playground, bursting at the seams with attractions, indoor escapes, and unique experiences. Whether the snow is real, simulated, or just a dash of Florida whimsy at the theme parks, here’s how to make every chilly moment count. Ready for a snow day you’ll smile about forever? Let’s dive in!  Our favorite things to do in Orlando when it snows include:  Kennedy Space Center  WonderWorks  Madame Tussauds Orlando  SEA LIFE Aquarium  The Orlando Eye  Gatorland  Museum of Illusions  Chocolate Kingdom  Cozy up with gourmet sips & bites at The Glass Knife  WonderWorks: Science Meets Whimsy in an Upside-Down Adventure  When flurries fall, WonderWorks flips your day upside down—literally. This famous “upside-down house” on International Drive is Orlando’s go-to indoor science playground, promising laughs, gasps, and brain-bending discovery at every turn. From the moment you see the building’s zany architecture, you know you’re in for an out-of-the-ordinary experience.  Step inside and leave the winter chill far behind. Interactive zones take you straight into hurricane tunnels, laser tag courses, arcade-style games, and exhilarating rides like the 36-foot indoor ropes course—perfect for working up a sweat even as the snow swirls outside. Budding scientists can kick-start quakes on the earthquake simulator, freeze bubbles in mid-air, or challenge friends to hilarious mental puzzles.  Everything here is hands-on, high energy, and delivered with a playful sense of humor that never lets up. When the weather tries to put a damper on your plans, WonderWorks turns the day into an experiment in pure fun. Pro tip: check out the magic comedy dinner show on-site for an evening of laughter, illusions, and maybe even a snow-themed trick or two.  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Rubbing Shoulders with Celebs (No Winter Coats Needed)  On a snow day in Orlando, who wouldn’t want to stroll the red carpet with superheroes, movie stars, and pop icons—all while staying perfectly toasty indoors? Madame Tussauds Orlando invites you to snap selfies with incredibly lifelike wax figures of your favorite personalities, from classic stars to modern legends.  What’s the vibe? Totally interactive. You’re not just posing; you can shoot hoops with Shaq, belt out a tune with Ariana Grande, and even swing with Spider-Man—all without frostbite threatening your fingertips. The museum is bright, upbeat, and packed with photo ops that look great on social media or in scrapbooks back home.  It’s an attraction where everyone—from tiny tots to jazzed-up grandparents—finds a figure they’re psyched to meet. There’s no rush, no crowds elbowing for space, and the climate-controlled rooms guarantee that not a single snowflake will dampen your spirits. Plus, at Madame Tussauds, you get all the glitz and glamor of Hollywood without any of its weather drama.  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Dive Deep When It’s Snowy Outside  While it snowflakes outside, slip into SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium where warmth and wonder are the stars of the show. You’re immersed in a serene, underwater world that feels miles away from any storm—think floor-to-ceiling viewing tunnels, vibrant sea creatures, and calming aquatic displays.  Here’s why we love it as a wintry escape: the 360-degree ocean tunnel. Rays and graceful sharks slip silently overhead while tropical fish dart through coral gardens all around. Interactive touch pools let you meet sea stars and hermit crabs up close, so there’s never a dull (or chilly) moment.  SEA LIFE is designed for all ages, with plenty of space to explore without ever stepping back into the cold. Knowledgeable staff share feeding times, quirky animal facts, and tips for making your visit extra meaningful. It’s a gentle, mesmerizing place to relax, refresh, and—if only for a while—pretend the only snow outside is the glisten of white sand in a coral lagoon!  Gatorland: Florida’s Wild Side, Snow or Shine  If you think a little snowfall slows down Orlando’s most famous reptiles, think again: Gatorland is wild fun on any day, and you can enjoy its best indoor experiences no matter the weather. Head straight for the covered walkways and climate-controlled exhibits where alligators and exotic birds keep you spellbound.  The star attraction? Gatorland’s up-close animal encounters. You’ll meet baby alligators, giant tortoises, and friendly snakes (all safely supervised, we promise) in the comfort of enclosed viewing areas. The Gator Gully Splash Park may close if temperatures plummet, but the quirky Gator Jumparoo Show, live feedings, and educational talks are ready to keep you both warm and wowed.  And if the flurries clear, the boardwalks and zip line courses make for adrenaline-pumping outdoor fun. Gatorland’s mix of indoor shelter and outdoor adventure means even a rare cold snap can’t dull its sense of wild Florida excitement.  Museum of Illusions: Mind-Bending Indoors for Snowy Surprises  Wintery weather outdoors? Step into the Museum of Illusions Orlando and let your brain do the acrobatics. This attraction takes the concept of “seeing is believing” and flips it right on its head. You’ll wander through countless rooms and exhibits that play with perception, scale, and gravity—with every space designed for maximum giggles and mind-blowing photos.  Think anti-gravity rooms where you can 'walk' sideways, infinity tunnels perfect for social media snaps, and holographic puzzles that put your logic to the test. It’s relaxed, colorful, and totally indoors—so your nose never turns as red as Rudolph’s.  Museum of Illusions is a top pick for families and groups, since everyone from little kids to teens to adults will leave smiling (and scratching their heads!). Plus, you get awesome practical souvenirs: photos that look like you’re shrinking, floating, or dancing upside down—each one a winter story no one will believe back home.  Chocolate Kingdom: Warm Up With Sweet Magic  When that wintry breeze starts to nip, nothing hits the spot like Chocolate Kingdom. This working chocolate factory and interactive tour pairs sensory delight with hands-on learning—perfect for escaping chilly weather outside.  Step inside and let expert guides lead you through the fascinating journey of how cacao beans transform from rainforest fruit into dreamy truffles and bars. You’ll see dazzling machines swirling melted chocolate, pop into secret tasting rooms, and even design your own personalized chocolate bar from scratch.  Chocolate Kingdom’s warm interiors tick every box: delicious scents, bright murals for irresistible photos, and plenty of samples to keep everyone in high spirits. It’s magical for families, date nights, or friends groups, and an easy answer to that perennial question, “What do we do when it’s too cold or wet outside?”  The Glass Knife: Cozy, Culinary Comfort in Winter’s Embrace  Sometimes the best snow day memories are crafted in a cozy booth, spoon deep in a bowl of hot soup or sipping a dreamy latte. Enter The Glass Knife—Winter Park’s pastry haven and bistro, where sunlight streams in and the welcoming décor hums with nostalgia. Plush seating, pink accent walls, and displays filled with luscious cakes set a scene that feels equal parts Parisian café and 1950s bakery.  This is where you come to warm up and indulge. The signature treat? Their layered chocolate cake, impossibly fudgy and topped with a swirl of silky buttercream. You’ll also find seasonal specialties—try the cinnamon roll on weekends or a steaming mug of Nutella hot chocolate if the weather outside is especially frosty.  The Glass Knife also takes savory comfort seriously, serving up artisan sandwiches, decadent quiches, and piping hot tomato soup that feels soul-soothing after a morning exploring Orlando’s chilly attractions. Whether you gather with friends, squeeze in for a solo treat, or linger for people-watching, The Glass Knife turns winter’s bite into pure bliss.  Snow Day Bliss in Orlando—No Matter the Weather!  No matter what the Central Florida skies throw at you, Orlando proves every day holds the potential for magic—especially when winter brings a little snow to the sunshine capital. From hands-on science to mouthwatering sweets, aquatic escapes to mind-bending illusions, this city makes sure you’re laughing, learning, and savoring every minute. Pack your mittens just in case, but don’t be surprised if you trade them for a swimsuit or a chef’s apron by lunchtime. Orlando in the snow? Pure, playful adventure—rain, shine or flurry.    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or browse the city’s market scene.     Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
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Best Time to Visit Orlando

A popular entertainment hub, Orlando draws in millions of visitors each year. The best things to do in the city run the gamut – from iconic theme parks to fantastic cultural amenities, you’ll never be bored here. Whether you’re taking a selfie outside the iconic Cinderella Castle at Disney World, making a splash at Aquatica, or strolling through the winding walking trails of Kraft Azalea Garden, the City Beautiful promises a vacation to remember. But with so many draws also come some drawbacks – big crowds, high heat, and heavy price tags. If you’ve never visited before, you might just be wondering when it would be the best time to go. Thankfully, that’s what we’re here for! Keep scrolling to read through our comprehensive overview of when to make your way to Orlando! November - December Sure, the first thoughts that come to mind when you think of Orlando are sunny blue skies and high temperatures. But for those who are looking to beat the heat, the holidays are a great option. Though you’ll be miles more comfortable, the major attractions are still likely to be pretty busy (this is the holiday season, after all). Still, there’s a reason that so many are drawn towards visiting during this time of the year – during these months, the popular sites pull out all the stops for the holidays - and quite frankly, it couldn't be more magical. Some top things to do during this time of the year include: Disney Very Merriest After Hours - This event includes four hours of holiday festivities, including Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, as well as an exciting stage show. And as if that wasn’t enough, on select nights you can catch captivating ‘’snowfalls’’, transforming the park into a magical winter wonderland. International Festival of the Holidays - A fantastic celebration of culture, Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays rings in the merriest time of the year with a global celebration of Christmas. Don’t miss out! Dazzling Nights - Thousands of lights bring Harry P. Leu Gardens to life purely for our enjoyment. Enjoy live music and interactive elements in this wonderful seasonal dreamland. October While the City Beautiful is enjoyable any time of the year, we especially love October. Though hurricane season isn’t quite over yet by this point, temperatures are a little lower than in the summertime, making it great for visiting outdoor attractions. The major plus of visiting during October is, of course, Halloween. If you’re anything like us, your favorite holiday incites total fear - and luckily, Orlando knows how to do it right. Of course, the theme parks go all out for this one – so much so that it’d be rude not to check them out. As for nightlife, the best Halloween events take place downtown. And for those who like to play it cool, you’ll find a lot of interesting and crafty festivals cropping up all across the city. Additionally, you can get great value on accommodation and activities during this time of the year. Some of the best things to do during October include: Oktoberfest – Who doesn’t love an Oktoberfest? Held each year in Avalon Park, this traditional Bavarian festival has a beer garden, live music, and plenty of food to go around. We couldn’t think of a better way to spend a festive afternoon in Orlando. Disney After Hours Boo Bash – Held each year at Magic Kingdom, this three-hour-long event features seasonal entertainment, exclusive culinary offerings, and more. Don’t forget to dress up! January - February Another good time to visit Orlando is at the start of the year. If the city’s famous tropical weather is what concerns you about making the trip, then this is the coolest time to go. With lowered temperatures and drier weather, the period between January and February is an especially great choice for those who are planning to visit a lot of theme parks. We recommend packing clothes which you can layer with, since it can get pretty chilly in the evening, and the weather can be quite unpredictable. This is also a prime period to explore the city’s most iconic sites since it’s during the school term, and the area will be less crowded. Though there aren’t any holidays during these months, Orlando is one of those places where there is a lot happening all year round. No matter what you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be fantastic! September If crowds are your enemy, we recommend going in September. Sunseekers and adrenaline junkies alike will love this period since it's still hot-hot-hot, but without all of the hustle and bustle compared the that of peak tourist season. Since schools are back into action the first week of September, you’ll find that even the city’s most popular attractions are much quieter. We recommend packing summery clothing since it’s still likely to be warm and humid during September. Because it’s low season, this is one of the more affordable times to visit Orlando. Around this time of the year, you’ll be able to find some great deals for hotels, events and dining. Whether you’re travelling as a large group, a couple, or a solo traveller, September is a fantastic option for those looking to explore all of the city’s main draws. Some of our favorite things to do in September include: Fairy Doors Exhibit – Throughout the month of September, Harry P. Leu Gardens transforms into a magical forest with its Fairy Doors exhibit. At the event, you are tasked to spot the intricate wooden doors hidden around the park on some of the centuries-old trees. Lakeridge Wine and Cheese Festival – Kick back and relax at Lakeridge Winery with a wide variety of culinary offerings from local artisan vendors and of course, plenty of wine to go around! Orlando is truly a special place to visit. Boasting spectacular theme parks, wondrous nature attractions, and interesting cultural institutions, there’s never a shortage of awesome things to do here. To make the most out of your trip, it’s important to have structure. Remember – there's no single perfect time to visit, only a time that’s right for you. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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