Best Places for School Trips in Orlando

By Katie Sagal

Whether you're from Central Florida or are looking to expand your field trip radius quite a bit, there's some excellent school trip options available in Orlando. From arts and sciences to tech and culture, there's no shortage of great school trip choices in Orlando. Check out a list of some of our favorites, including:

  • Kennedy Space Center
  • WonderWorks Orlando
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando
  • ZooTampa at Lowry Park
  • Museum of Science & Industry

Save on Admission to Orlando School Trip Attractions

For parents or teachers planning a trip to Central Florida, it can be tough to budget for a large group. Pick up an all-inclusive Go Orlando Card to help your whole group save up to 50% on combined attraction admission vs. paying at the gate. See all passes, attractions, and prices -- learn more.

Kennedy Space Center

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If there's a hands-down field trip favorite in Orlando, it's the Kennedy Space Center. This prestigious institution is one of the few places in the country where students can get a first-hand learning experience about space travel. Groups can tour launch and landing facilities, meet real astronauts, train in space-flight simulators, and get an up-close look at giant rockets. Getting In: Kennedy Space Center tickets are included with the Go Orlando Card.

WonderWorks Orlando

This top field trip destination combines fun and learning in a playful environment that's part museum, part indoor theme park. Exhibits focus on exploring strange and wondrous phenomena, including how earthquakes and hurricanes work, how a bubble is made, and how to design a roller coaster. There's also some good old-fashioned exercise built in, too, including a ropes course and a laser tag arena. This attraction is ideal for elementary and middle grade groups. Getting In: WonderWorks All Access Pass tickets are included with the Go Orlando Card.

SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando

underwater-view-large-sea-turtle-swimming-orlando

Aquariums are a perennially popular field trip destination, and with good reason! They're educational, exciting, and plenty of fun for all involved. SEA LIFE Aquarium in Orlando boasts more than 5,000 different marine creatures, including vibrant tropical fish, ethereal jellies, an impressive Giant Pacific Octopus, and much more. They also offer a touch tank, which allows visiting students to interact with different species and gets some (literally) hands-on experience. Schedule your trip around feeding times and daily keeper talks for extra educational benefits. Getting In: SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando tickets are included with the Go Orlando Card.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

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If you're got some flexibility in where your field trips can take you, head to Tampa to check out these next two top school trip options. ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a modest but fascinating zoo that hosts more than 1,300 endangered and vulnerable species. You'll get to see some of the world's most amazing critters, including elephants, leopards, tigers, bears, manatees, and many more. There are five different, themed habitat zones, a water play area, and some very kid-friendly rides. So it's pretty easy to combine the educational aspects of learning about special animals with some classic amusement park fun. Getting In: ZooTampa tickets are included with the Go Orlando Card.

Museum of Science & Industry

Another great Tampa option is the exciting Museum of Science and Industry. MOSI offers more than 100 interactive exhibits great for younger children. Many of these exhibits explore basic concepts of the natural world, while others simply encourage the students to exercise their imaginations in the service of learning. You'll find themed areas including "I Wonder...," "Journey Through the Skies," and "ConnectUS" (which showcases the future of technology. There's even a planetarium to explore! Getting In: Museum of Science and Industry tickets are included with the Go Orlando Card.

Remember to Save on Orlando Area Field Trip Attractions

So if you're planning a trip for your class or family and are in search of some top school trip attraction options, we hope you check one or a few of these out. And don't forget -- if you want to save big on admission to these great field trip ideas, a Go Orlando Card may be a smart choice. We even offer discounts on large group purchases, which can help save your school's budget even more.

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10+ Things to Do in Orlando with Teens During Your Vacation

It’s not always easy to plan a vacation the whole family will love – especially if you’re dealing with teens who may be, shall we say, a little bit picky about what they want to see and do. In search of things to do in Orlando with teens that won’t make them roll their eyes? Check out our list of suggested teen-friendly attractions for ideas, including... Gatorland Kennedy Space Center ICON Orlando (formerly Coca-Cola Orlando Eye) WonderWorks Ripley's Believe It or Not! Congo River Adventure Golf tickets The Cirque Magique Dinner Show Fun Spot America and more... Save on Admission to Attractions Teens Will Love Many of these teen-friendly Orlando attractions are included on the Go Orlando® Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Roam the Great Outdoors Even if your kid isn’t the hiking type, there’s something to be said for giving the Everglades a shot. This National Park is absolutely gorgeous and is filled with an amazing variety of wildlife, from the iconic Florida alligators to exotic plant life. The photos you'll be able to take in the Everglades will be simply stunning, and will certainly help get your teen those likes on their Facebook photos! Visit Gatorland for an extended chance to meet the famous gators (and even see some gator wrestling!), or hop aboard a fun airboat tour for a more comprehensive overview of the natural world in Central Florida. Getting In: Gatorland Orlando tickets and Boggy Creek Airboat Tour tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card. Explore the World of Outer Space For those aspiring astronauts or engineers out there, there is no better place in the world than the Kennedy Space Center. It's the home of all things space exploration, and is filled to the brim with exhibits, artifacts, equipment, and even veteran astronauts ready to answer your questions. Check out one of the many included IMAX films, tour real launch areas, and train in space flight simulators just like the astronauts do! Your space-loving teens will be enthralled. Getting In: Kennedy Space Center tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card. View the City from Above While some sightseeing options may seem dull to your teens, ICON Orlando is anything but. See the amazing vistas of Orlando from 400 feet in the air, suspended in state-of-the-art capsules with interactive narration. It’s actually the tallest observation wheel on the east coast! You’ll be able to see the Orlando skyline, the area’s many theme parks, and even all the way to Cape Canaveral. It’s also a great photo opportunity and a good chance for them to perfect that ideal Instagram post. Getting In: ICON Orlando tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card. Explore the I-Drive Corridor There are so many attractions packed into one this one amazing neighborhood that you could basically confine your entire trip to the International Drive Corridor and never miss a thing. If you're looking for zany fun and excitement with a little educational twist, WonderWorks is a good spot (probably best for younger teens). For the older crowd, and those who love all things weird and wonderful, Ripley's Believe It or Not! is an excellent option. It's filled with exhibits and artifacts that will truly fascinate visitors. For the animal lovers among your family, SEA LIFE Aquarium is a favorite destination. With more than 5,000 amazing creatures to marvel at, you'll never tire of this experience. Movie fans, don't despair -- you don't need to travel to Hollywood to meet your favorite celebrities! Head to the astonishing Madame Tussauds to see all the top stars, from movies and music to history and politics. Check out our post for some fun International Drive attractions. Getting In: WonderWorks Orlando tickets is included on the Go Orlando Card. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando tickets on the Explorer Pass. Feel Like a Little Kid Again Even teens understand the value of nostalgia. Let them feel like a little kid again with a fun family-favorite activity that everyone will enjoy -- a good game of mini-golf. This time, though, it's got a more exciting spin on it that will keep your teens captivated. Congo River Adventure Golf is more than just a mini-golf course, it's a whole new way to play the game. Your competitive teens will also enjoy searching for lost artifacts throughout the course to win some prizes. Afterwards, let them loose in the Congo River Arcade for some more fun! Getting In: Congo River Adventure Golf tickets is included on the Go Orlando Card. Visit a Classic Amusement Park There’s just something so exciting about the first rush of the roller coaster, or the thrill of being spun around at high speeds. That’s why Fun Spot America is such a delightful destination for the whole family. With several different ride options to choose from, from go karts to Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster, we’re sure you’ll find something to satisfy even the most skeptical teen. If nothing else, you can give them some time in the arcade and some good old-fashioned cotton candy. After all, what do teens love more than some friendly competition and a sugar rush? Getting In: Fun Spot America tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card. Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise If you're willing to drive a bit outside of Orlando to the Tampa area, the Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise is a great option for adventure-loving teens. This exhilarating speedboat ride combines the fun of a jet boat with the delightful sightseeing potential of a marine life cruise. Dolphins love to play in the wake generated by this amazing vessel, so you'll get to see these playful pals follow your boat as you zip around! Getting In: Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card. Remember to Save on Admission There you have it. Our list of some of the top things to do in Orlando with teens during your upcoming trip. Remember, many of these great activities are included on the Go Orlando Card and/or Orlando Explorer Pass, where you can save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Consider adding a few of these teen friendly options to your vacation itinerary. Enjoy!
Katie Sagal
Best Markets in Orlando
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Best Markets in Orlando

If you're looking for the best markets in Orlando, check out our picks and get ready to haggle! From fresh produce to street food, we've got it all. Including: Orlando Farmers' Market Winter Park Farmers' Market East End Market Maitland Farmer's Market Winter Garden Farmers Market and more! Best Markets in Orlando: Orlando Farmer's Market Found in the middle of downtown Orlando, the Orlando Farmer's Market set up shop every week. Featuring an array of local offerings, including farm-fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, pressed juices, gourmet kettle corn, intricately crafted handmade jewelry, vibrant live plants, and a rich assortment of additional treasures, it's clearly one of the best markets in Orlando. And that's without gushing over the beer and wine garden that opens its kegs at noon. With so much good stuff on offer, you better make sure you've got some pennies in the bank! Is it worth visiting downtown Orlando? Downtown Orlando is a lively center of entertainment in Central Florida. Enjoy its dynamic atmosphere and find great dining spots, trendy shopping options and plenty of nightlife. The area also has a park and a lake. This is the historic district of the city, where you can admire beautiful churches and buildings. Can you walk in downtown Orlando? The area is pretty small, so you can easily walk around the quaint city streets for the day, while Disney World and Universal are all just a short drive away. What is the best street in Orlando? Referred to as I-Drive, International Drive is the focal point for many of Orlando's premier theme parks and attractions. This vibrant stretch of road draws vacationers from near and far, offering an array of unforgettable experiences. Best Markets in Orlando: Winter Park Farmers' Market The Winter Park Farmers' Market offers a bountiful assortment of freshly harvested produce, verdant plants, delectable baked creations, and an array of other delights, all from local businesses. This market attracts both locals and tourists alike to sample its delights. Operating throughout the year, it consistently boasts an abundant stock of locally sourced produce. It's a colorful feast for the eyes and will provide a tasty feast for the belly! The stall owners are more than welcome to chat with you about their offerings, so don't shy away from a conversation or two. And hey, if you want to see more of the surrounding area, why not book a scenic boat tour and see the park from a different perspective? Best Markets in Orlando: East End Market Situated in the heart of the Garden District, the East End Market is a paradise for food aficionados. Experience the sublime flavor of Orlando's finest cookies at Gideon's Bakehouse, treat yourself to the exquisitely handcrafted artisanal cheeses from Le Femme du Fromage, or delight in the sips of locally sourced organic juices at the Skyebird Juice Bar. A trip to East End Market also promises an enriching afternoon – relish a craft beer from Florida & Co. or explore a new avenue by partaking in one of the many classes available at the market. In any case, it's an exceptional destination that warrants a visit. Best Markets in Orlando: Maitland Farmer's Market For those with leisurely Sunday mornings to spare, the Maitland Farmer's Market could be just what you're looking for. And, if you're not averse to a warm, chatty atmosphere, make that a double. Conversations constantly ring out throughout the market, giving it a vibe like no other. The venue itself boasts an appealing setting, and with decent parking and traffic-free thoroughfare, you can take a car to load up if you like. Food and drink is the market's selling point, with a range of street food and refreshing beverages that'll hit the spot! Best Markets in Orlando: Winter Garden Farmers Market Nestled to the west of Orlando, the enchanting and historically rich city of Winter Garden boasts a remarkable farmer's market. This vibrant gathering, situated in the heart of the city, truly comes alive on Saturdays. But why do so many flock to Winter Garden Farmers Market when the weekend hits? Well, the farm-fresh produce, delightful homemade treats, and a melodic backdrop of live music, of course! However, if you can't make it on Saturday, do not despair. The Plant Street Market operates from Thursday through Sunday and accommodates over 20 vendors. Best Markets in Orlando: Ivanhoe Village Ivanhoe Village has undergone a remarkable resurgence in recent times. This revitalization has been fueled by gentrified dining establishments and a vibrant nightlife scene, effectively elevating it to a coveted status as one of the city's premier destinations. Because of this, a ton of shops, stalls, and experiences have followed, ensuring visitors can enjoy a range of things to do. All of the above makes Ivanhoe Village an indispensable hotspot that captivates the attention of tourists and locals, offering an enticing tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. So why not go see what all the fuss is about? Best Markets in Orlando: Audubon Park Community Market Every Monday, when the sun starts to set, Stardust Coffee's parking lot comes alive with the Audubon Park Community Market. Expect a lively gathering brimming with locally-crafted culinary delights, artistic creations, and crafts. This vibrant market is designed to be inclusive, welcoming families and even four-legged companions, making it a splendid kick-off to the week. Whether you're seeking delectable fare, unique artisanal finds, or simply a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this market offers a spirited and pet-friendly haven that sets a wonderful tone for the days ahead. Best Markets in Orlando: Freshfields Farmers Market If you're looking for affordable local produce, the finest cuts of meat, and even some locally-sourced ice cream, step right up to Freshfields Farmers Market! "How can such delightful items be so affordable?" We hear you cry. Well, it's because a lot of it is sold in bulk, ensuring you can fill up the fridge-freezer for months to come. Local farmers man most of the stalls, selling stuff they've picked or cultivated themselves. So not only do you get a better deal on fresh produce, but the profits go straight back into the farm! Now that's sustainable! And those were our picks of the best markets in Orlando! If you're looking to upgrade the rest of your Orlando stay, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley

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