Orlando Goes Green: Top Ways to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day

Published: May 4, 2026
women enjoying st patricks day in a bar

Orlando may be renowned for its world-class theme parks and endless sunshine, but when St Patrick’s Day rolls around, the city transforms into a lively haven of green glitter and Gaelic celebration. Whether you’ve got Irish roots or simply want an excuse to don your lucky clover gear, Orlando delivers a St Paddy’s Day you won’t soon forget. Think rollicking parades, foot-tapping Celtic bands, and themed bites (and sips) you’d swear were shipped straight from Dublin. Our guide takes you far beyond the typical tourist trail—uncovering the best parties, the coziest Irish pubs, parades brimming with community spirit, and unique Orlando attractions getting in on the fun. Ready to pack your trip with a pot o’ gold’s worth of memories? Let’s get to it! 

Our favorite St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Orlando include: 

The Orlando Eye 

Kennedy Space Center 

Gatorland 

Downtown Orlando’s St Patrick’s Day Parade 

Raglan Road Irish Pub 

SEALIFE Aquarium 

Wall St. Plaza Block Party 

Museum of Illusions 

Crooked Can Brewing Company’s Celtic Festival 

Lake Eola Park Festivities 

THE ORLANDO EYE: GREEN VIEWS OVER THE CITY

Every March, The Orlando Eye—one of the city’s most recognizable attractions—joins the global tradition of lighting up landmarks for St Patrick’s Day. This 400-foot observation wheel glows emerald against the night sky, creating a festive beacon visible for miles. Hop aboard one of the high-tech capsules and you’re in for more than just a thrilling view. Up top, you’ll spot the city’s skyline, see theme parks twinkling below, and, if you’ve timed it right, even catch other Orlando hotspots bathed in green for the occasion. 

Why do we love this for St Patrick’s Day? First, it’s a uniquely Orlando spin on Irish celebrations and a picture-perfect way to see the city at its most festive. Ride at sunset for golden light over the city, or after dark when the full effect of that green glow kicks in. The ICON Park area beneath hosts themed pop-ups each March, from Celtic musicians to green-beer stands and Irish fare. From couples seeking a romantic birds-eye moment to families who want that extra bit of themed magic, The Orlando Eye delivers a unique way to kickstart holiday adventures—plus, where else can you toast the Irish spirit at 400 feet? 

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER: IRISH ADVENTURE, OUT OF THIS WORLD 

Irish luck meets astronaut adventure at the Kennedy Space Center—just a short drive from Orlando. In mid-March, the center often gets caught up in the St Patrick’s Day buzz with themed scavenger hunts for kids, pop-up green treats in the café, and special “Shamrock the Universe” activities. On the big day itself, look for staff and even a few space suits decked out in bright green. 

But don’t let the fun fool you: the real reason we keep coming back is the atmosphere of awe and discovery that only a legendary spaceport can offer. Explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis, meet real astronauts for St Paddy’s Day Q&As, and enjoy hands-on exhibits—all while the grounds pulse with festive energy. The sprawling Rocket Garden gets a festive facelift with green spotlights in the evenings, perfect for a once-a-year photo op. It’s the ultimate family-friendly way to celebrate, where every future astronaut (or pint-sized leprechaun) leaves inspired the Irish way—by dreaming big. 

GATORLAND: ST PADDY’S WITH A SWAMPY TWIST 

For a holiday experience you won’t find in Dublin, celebrate St Patrick’s Day at Gatorland, “The Alligator Capital of the World.” The park welcomes the green-themed holiday in classic quirky style, hosting special shows featuring their famous gators (sometimes sporting tiny green hats—yes, really), live Irish folk music, and family-friendly contests such as Best Leprechaun Gator Impression. 

The wild fun carries on throughout the park, where you can zipline over gator swamps, feed baby alligators, and explore lush boardwalks surrounded by Florida’s signature wildlife. Gatorland’s take on the holiday celebrates the spirit of both local and Irish traditions—fun-loving, outrageous and all about bringing the community together. Pick up a themed souvenir at the Gator Gift Shop (leprechaun-on-an-alligator merch, anyone?) and enjoy the park’s famously silly staff who never miss an excuse for a themed joke or two. This is Orlando at its most delightfully offbeat and perfect for families or travelers looking for laughs. 

DOWNTOWN ORLANDO'S ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE: THE HEART OF THE CELEBRATION 

Orlando comes alive with the thumping beat of drums, dazzling green costumes, and a whole lot of Irish pride during the annual Downtown St Patrick’s Day Parade. Typically weaving its way through the historic Thornton Park District, this event is packed with bagpipe bands, Irish dance troupes, costumed pups, and floats representing local businesses, all cheered on by festive crowds. 

What truly makes the parade a must-see? The atmosphere—there’s nothing quite like joining locals dressed in green, with everyone from teens to retirees getting into the festive spirit. Neighborhood restaurants and bars open their patios for parade viewing, while pop-up food trucks serve everything from corned beef sandwiches to emerald-hued desserts. After the parade, the fun continues with music and dance performances on outdoor stages, plenty of family-friendly games, and more than a few Guinness toasts. For travelers wanting a taste of Orlando’s warm community vibe, this parade is as genuine and enthusiastic as they come. 

RAGLAN ROAD IRISH PUB: AUTHENTIC IRISH FLAIR IN THE HEART OF ORLANDO

You’ll find Raglan Road Irish Pub at Disney Springs, packed to the rafters every St Paddy’s Day and for good reason. This bustling spot employs not just Irish chefs but a rotating roster of dancers and musicians flown in from Ireland for their annual Mighty St Patrick’s Festival. Step inside the mahogany-paneled main room or grab an alfresco table; live Celtic tunes fill the air and high-spirited dancers put on toe-tapping performances every hour. 

We especially recommend the house signatures—Guinness-infused shepherd’s pie or fish and chips with a perfectly crisp, malty batter. Their drinks menu pulls no punches either, featuring imported Irish brews, innovative cocktails like the Celtic Revival (with Jameson, blackberries and basil), plus a whiskey collection that’ll tempt aficionados. The pub’s décor—gleaming brass, antique mirrors and dark wood—is straight from Dublin, but the lakeside patio brings a Florida twist with sunset views. Raglan Road isn’t just another Irish bar; it’s a true feast for the senses, welcoming families by day and morphing into the St Patrick’s Day party every traveler dreams of by night. 

SEA LIFE ORLANDO AQUARIUM: GO GREEN UNDER THE SEA 

Why not celebrate in the company of dazzling marine life? SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers a serene, family-friendly St Patrick’s Day alternative, with a subtle Irish twist. The aquarium goes green for the occasion—literally—illuminating its underwater tunnels and enormous tanks with emerald lighting. Even some of the aquarium’s resident creatures join the fun, with themed presentations explaining which species are the marine world’s “leprechauns.” 

Children are treated to scavenger hunts for hidden shamrocks while Irish folk tunes play softly as you watch sharks, rays, and glittering schools of fish glide overhead. If you’re after a less crowded, gentle day out (and maybe an educational break for the kids), this is the spot. Plus, it’s located at ICON Park, so you can pair your visit with the Orlando Eye’s green glow above or wander outside for themed snacks and music. It’s Orlando’s answer to a day on the Emerald Isle, minus the damp socks. 

WALL ST. PLAZA BLOCK PARTY: THE ULTIMATE DOWNTOWN SHAMROCK SHINDIG 

Do you crave wall-to-wall music, creative costumes and a lively atmosphere? Wall St. Plaza’s annual St Patrick’s Day Block Party turns downtown Orlando into party central. Seven connected bars band together for this outdoor bonanza, where live bands, dueling DJs and river-dancers keep the crowd hopping all night long. Expect street food stalls (think Irish bangers or green-frosted cupcakes), plenty of drink specials—especially on Guinness and green beer—and fun games like keg bowling or a leprechaun lip sync battle. 

We’re especially fond of the people-watching—you’ll see everything from toddlers in tiny top hats to locals decked out as full-on Irish elves. The plaza’s décor goes wild for the holiday: bunting, banners, and a sea of inflatable shamrocks. As the sun sets, the energy ramps up; the music gets louder, the dance-offs get wilder, and you might just make friends with a new table of fellow travelers or locals. For those wanting an authentic, high-energy street festival, Wall St. Plaza is St Paddy’s with big Orlando flair. 

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS: UNLEASH YOUR INNER LEPRECHAUN 

If you fancy Instagram-worthy, out-of-the-box festivities rather than another night at the bar, then Orlando’s Museum of Illusions delivers. During St Patrick’s Day week, the gallery decks out select rooms with green backdrops and themed props: think leprechaun hats, rainbow arches, and pots of (fool’s) gold. Step into the mind-bending vortex tunnel in a St Paddy’s themed getup or snap a picture in the reverse room, where gravity flips and your leprechaun selfie stands out in your feed. 

Museum staff play up the fun with interactive Irish-themed brain teasers and puzzles, and there are prizes for the best-dressed visitors (hint: those who glitter in green never go unnoticed). The vibe? Playful, social and ideal if you want to combine a little friendly competition with quirky photos. Plus, it’s a perfect way to make St Patrick’s Day feel special, even if you’re traveling with kids or those who don’t necessarily love parades or pub crawls. 

CROOKED CAN BREWING COMPANY’S CELTIC FESTIVAL: LOCAL FLAVOR MEETS IRISH PRIDE 

Tucked away in Winter Garden, a short drive from Orlando’s core but well worth the trek, Crooked Can Brewing Company throws its coveted Celtic Festival each March. The brewery goes all in—think green-clad staff pouring pints of Irish stouts and limited-edition brews crafted just for the occasion. Local food trucks whip up shepherd’s pie egg rolls and Irish nachos (yes, those are a thing), while an outdoor stage hosts traditional fiddlers, rock bands covering U2 anthems, and highland dancers who keep spirits high. 

The vibe is festive and inclusive, with festival-style games, face-painting and balloon artists for kids, and the friendliest crowd you could hope for. You’ll find plenty of shaded tables, a big outdoor beer garden, and the chance to tour the brewery or raise a glass alongside passionate locals. Crooked Can’s Celtic Festival is a great pick for groups, families, or solo travelers looking for something genuine and joyful—and no reservation required. 

LAKE EOLA PARK FESTIVITIES: RELAX, RECHARGE AND CELEBRATE AL FRESCO 

If parades and bar crawls feel a bit much, Lake Eola Park’s St Patrick’s Day happenings provide an easygoing, open-air escape right in downtown Orlando. The lakefront park frequently hosts Irish-themed yoga, pop-up markets selling green plants and crafts, and family-friendly picnics with live acoustic music. Swans glide by as buskers in flat caps play Irish melodies. 

Towering oak trees and views of the Orlando skyline set the scene for food trucks and pop-up beer tents, serving up everything from Irish stew to key lime pie with a green twist. Take a swan boat out with your crew, try your hand at outdoor games like cornhole or giant chess, or just stretch out a picnic blanket under the palms. Lake Eola puts the “chill” into St Paddy’s Day—welcoming for all ages and just steps from bustling downtown. 

 

Whether you picture yourself joining pipe bands in a downtown parade, snapping party pics in a gravity-defying illusion room, or simply lounging lakeside with a green-hued treat, Orlando brings its own sense of playfulness to St Patrick’s Day. You can chase leprechauns through world-class attractions, raise a toast with locals at a buzzing street festival, or trade traditions with astronauts and alligators alike. Orlando goes all in for the green each March—so no matter which adventure you choose, you’re set for a memorable St Paddy’s getaway. 

 

Like this? Why not explore the fascinating Museum of Illusions, 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! 

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

man rehydrating during a heatwave
Blog

Chill Out: The Coolest Ways to Beat Orlando’s Heatwave

Orlando is a magical place—except maybe when the summer sun decides to crank up the thermostat to “lava.” Don’t sweat it! Just because the mercury’s rising doesn’t mean you have to hide out in your hotel room. The city is packed with splash-tastic water adventures, air-conditioned attractions, and dazzling indoor experiences that let you soak up top Orlando fun without overheating. So grab your sunscreen (and let’s be honest, a giant cup of something icy), because we're ready to show off all the cool things to do during an Orlando heatwave. From wild encounters at aquariums to sweet escapes in chocolate factories, and wave pools guaranteed to make you forget the weather, this guide has you covered—shade guaranteed.  Our favorite things to do during a heatwave in Orlando include:  Island H2O Water Park  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium  WonderWorks Orlando  The Orlando Eye  Madame Tussauds Orlando  Chocolate Kingdom  Gatorland (with shaded & splash zones!)  Museum of Illusions Orlando  CoCo Key Water Park  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show  Island H2O Water Park: The Ultimate Cool Down  When the forecast says “feels like the surface of the sun,” you’ll want Island H2O Water Park at the top of your escape plan. This water park is a total game-changer for beating Orlando’s fiercest rays—think shimmering wave pools, lazy rivers, and next-level slides where you’re guaranteed to get (wonderfully) soaked.  The vibe here is high-energy and fun, but with enough space to relax. Grab a tube and drift along the Live! Lagoon lazy river, or test your courage on the Drop Down—just one of the heart-pumping speed slides. Got little ones in tow? The kids’ area is shaded, with interactive splash zones that'll have them giggling for hours. Adults can snag a private cabana for shady luxury, sipping a cool drink and enjoying WiFi if you want to post those sun-drenched action shots without overheating.  What really makes Island H2O stand out is the interactive tech. Slides sync with an app, playlists change based on your preferences, and your wristband lets you snap selfies or control light shows. It’s waterpark fun with a social media edge—meaning your biggest challenge is remembering to actually dry off at some point.  When the heat gets serious, nothing beats sliding and splashing from open to close. You’ll feel like a new person after a day here—chilled out, re-energized, and probably wondering how long until you can do it again.  WonderWorks Orlando: Get Wacky, Beat the Heat  What do you get when you cross an air-conditioned attraction, madcap science, and over 100 interactive exhibits? The answer is WonderWorks—the giant upside-down building on International Drive you can’t miss. When sweat is threatening to ruin your Orlando look, rush inside for an experience that’s as cool as it is quirky.  WonderWorks’ premise is “edu-tainment,” a blend of mind-bending science and hands-on fun that feels way more like play than school. Feel hurricane-force winds (don’t worry, it’s just a demo!), lie on a bed of nails if you’re feeling brave, and try your hand at laser tag battles, escape rooms, or navigating a black-lit ropes course—all without breaking a sweat.  There’s an electric, creative vibe that gets your mind racing and your selfie camera working overtime. Kids and adults love the keyboard floors and bubble labs, and if your group needs a breather, there’s a 4D motion ride theater. Pro tip: the Fat Shack Café offers pizza, snacks, and ice-cold drinks to keep everyone fueled for more play—all in the comfort of powerful air conditioning.  If you want smart fun that dodges the burning sun, WonderWorks delivers every time.  The Orlando Eye: Ride High Above It All  You could stay glued to a poolside lounger, but why not see the city from above instead? The Orlando Eye (officially known as The Wheel at ICON Park) towers 400 feet above International Drive and offers sweet, cool relief during its picturesque rotation.  The high-tech, glass-enclosed capsules are fully air-conditioned, so as you slowly rise over the skyline, you’ll stay completely comfortable even when it’s scorchy outside. The ride takes about 20 minutes, and every second is a new photo op: spot the sparkling lakes, theme park icons, and maybe even catch a summer thunderhead rolling in from the west.  What makes The Orlando Eye so special—besides the views—is the sense of calm it offers. You step off busy I-Drive and into your own suspended sanctuary, safe from the relentless sun. Even nervous fliers tend to relax once they’re up, thanks to the gentle movement and wide, steady pods. Sunset and nighttime rides have an extra dose of magic—the city lights up, and you’ll forget about the heat entirely.  Pair it with a visit to one of the restaurants or bars at ICON Park (we love the ice-cold cocktails at Blake Shelton’s Ole Red) and you’ve got the perfect mix of relaxation, excitement, and air-conditioned luxury.  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Snap Selfies with the Stars  It’s not every day that you can cozy up to Taylor Swift, LeBron James, and Wonder Woman—all without sweating through your shirt. At Madame Tussauds Orlando, the red carpet is blissfully indoors. The celebrity wax figures look so lifelike you’ll want to strike a new pose in every room (and your social media will thank you).  Each themed room is designed for maximum “wow” factor: pose in an NBA locker room, belt out karaoke with Adele, or challenge Einstein at his chalkboard. This isn’t just a parade of wax wonders—it’s a set of interactive scenes where you get to let loose, laugh, and create the ultimate vacation album.  The décor ranges from glitzy to charmingly retro, and there’s just the right soundtrack piped in to make you forget the thermostat outside. There are also thoughtful features for kids and families—superhero backdrops, sports zones, and plenty of quirky props.  Best of all, you can take your time without worrying about sunburn or humidity. Madame Tussauds gives every visitor the VIP treatment—cool, comfortable, and bursting with fun energy.  Chocolate Kingdom: Sweet Escape from the Sun  Step inside Chocolate Kingdom and the only thing getting melted is the chocolate! Located near International Drive, this “factory adventure tour” is pure air-conditioned bliss, and a feast for anyone with a sweet tooth.  Start your journey with a guided tour led by the quirkiest, most enthusiastic “Chocolate Princes” you’ll ever meet. Follow the story from cocoa bean to candy bar—pass through a rainforest, learn about chocolate’s epic past, and watch as real chocolatiers whip up creations behind glass. There are plenty of samples along the way, and yes, you can customize your own chocolate bar at the end (for an extra fee—totally worth it for your Instagram and your taste buds).  The vibe is lighthearted, with just the right amount of education and loads of playful jokes tossed into the mix. The magic really happens inside the kitchens, where you can watch chocolate fountains gurgle and try your hand at dipping treats. The coolest part? You’re surrounded by delicious aromas and chilly, chocolate-perfect air.  If your perfect day means dodging the weather with something sweet (and probably taking home souvenirs for later), Chocolate Kingdom is your happy place.  Museum of Illusions Orlando: Mind-Bending Cool Indoors  Ready to supercharge your A/C adventure? Step into Museum of Illusions Orlando, where reality bends, floors transform, and the thermostat is always set to “ahhh.” Located at ICON Park, this is the ultimate indoor escape for savvy travelers with a thirst for oddball fun (and a social feed in desperate need of new material).  Each exhibit is part science, part art, and all play. Snap a photo in the “upside-down room,” shrink yourself in an optical box, or walk the vortex tunnel if you’re feeling dizzy-brave. It’s as interactive as it gets—staff encourage posing, laughing, and testing each other’s sense of what’s real.  The main draw is how immersive and hands-on everything is—kids race from illusion to illusion, while adults compete for the trippiest photos. You’ll barely remember the heat outside, lost in a whirlwind of perception and playful trickery.  The entire experience is delightfully air-conditioned, with minimal waiting and plenty of staff to guide you through the optical wizardry. For the best experience, plan your visit during the middle of the day, when the sun is harshest—you’ll thank us later!  CoCo Key Water Park: Resort-Style Splashing  There’s nothing like a water park to clear out brain fog on a steamy day, and CoCo Key Water Park blends classic slides, splash pads, and shaded lounge areas with a welcoming, family-friendly resort feel.  Half the fun happens under a huge, colorful canopy, so especially sun-sensitive kids and adults can play for hours without roasting. There are twisting water slides for bold riders, a lazy river for ultimate relaxation, and plenty of shallow pools perfect for pint-size swimmers.  Parents will appreciate the laid-back Caribbean décor, shaded seating, and abundance of lifeguards, while everyone raves about the snack bar’s loaded nachos and frosty drinks. If you’re traveling with a group, reserve a cabana for even more personal shade (and food delivery straight to your lounge chair).  CoCo Key’s balance of full-throttle fun and shelter from the rays makes it a summer favorite. The best part? You can splash, snack, and sip without ever wondering when you’ll need to dry off and reapply sunscreen.  The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: Laugh Off the Heat  Sometimes, the best way to handle a heatwave is with a laugh—and fresh pizza. The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show, tucked inside WonderWorks, dishes up big laughs, mind-blowing magic, and unlimited dinner—all in the comfort of cool, cozy air-con.  Kick back at communal tables while a master magician/comedian serves up sleight of hand and side-splitting banter, all delivered with enough audience participation to keep things lively but friendly. Kids, grandparents, and everyone in between end up howling—it’s that blend of old-school vaudeville, quirky props, and improv that makes the show feel new every night.  And let’s not forget the food: You’ll be treated to all-you-can-eat pizza, salad, popcorn, and dessert, plus bottomless wine, beer, and sodas for the adults. If your group is all about maximum fun with the least fuss, this experience can’t be beat after a day out in the Orlando heat.  It’s interactive (without pressure), lasts just the right amount of time, and makes a cool, memorable night out. Book in advance—tables fill up quickly, especially during the hottest stretches.    Orlando’s sunny skies and baking weather are part of its summertime charm, but that doesn’t mean you need to battle the heat to make the most of your vacation. The city is packed with splash-happy water parks, brilliantly air-conditioned attractions, and unforgettable experiences that turn a heatwave into just another reason to have maximum fun. Whether you’re diving beneath the waves at SEA LIFE, swirling down slides at Island H2O, or taking a tongue-in-cheek tour at Chocolate Kingdom, you’ll find your perfect chill spot. So grab your flip-flops, choose your adventure, and get ready to make every sweltering Orlando day a cool memory.    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, and discover brilliant birthdays in the city.  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! 
men at work to celebrate labor day
Blog

Orlando’s Most Fun Ways to Celebrate Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day always feels like the weekend summer saves its best for last, and in Orlando, the sunshine vibes hit an all-time high. Whether you’re a theme park adrenaline junkie, water park warrior, foodie on the hunt for the city’s tastiest treats, or someone who just wants to soak up those lakefront sunsets, Orlando makes planning your perfect Labor Day escape easy—if you know where to look. We’ll help you map out an itinerary packed with the city’s best thrills, oddities, sweet bites, and Insta-worthy moments. Forget the stress and let us show you the most exciting, unique, and family-friendly ways to make your long weekend in the Theme Park Capital feel legendary.  Here’s what we love to do for Labor Day in Orlando:  Kennedy Space Center  LEGOLAND Florida  The Orlando Eye  Island H2O Water Park  WonderWorks  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium  Gatorland  Museum of Illusions Orlando  Daytona International Speedway Tour  Local fireworks & free outdoor festivals  LEGOLAND® Florida: Bricks, Rides, and Splashin’ Good Times  Feeling playful this Labor Day? LEGOLAND® Florida brings a dose of creative fun that’s perfect for families, kids at heart, and pretty much anyone who can appreciate 50 million colorful bricks. Located in Winter Haven, about a 45-minute drive from Orlando, this park boasts a cheerful, hands-on vibe from the minute you enter its whimsical gates. The crowds are usually happy and manageable over the holiday, especially if you visit early.  The park really goes all out for Labor Day, often offering themed events (think extra fireworks, special building contests, or character meet-and-greets) to ramp up the festivities. Splashworks is the place to cool off—no Orlando summer is complete without a float down the lazy river or a turn on the tube slides. Meanwhile, MINIland USA will blow your mind with jaw-dropping recreations of icons like the Kennedy Space Center… built entirely from LEGO®.  If you’ve got LEGO® fans in the group, don’t miss the Master Builder workshops, and the LEGOLAND® Hotel next door throws in bonus fun like treasure hunts and themed rooms. Celebrate the holiday with colossal builds, captivating entertainment, and kid-sized thrills—it’s pure joy from start to finish.  The Orlando Eye: Soar to Holiday Heights  Rise above the city skyline and take in a one-of-a-kind view of all the Labor Day action from The Orlando Eye (also known as The Wheel at ICON Park). This observation wheel is no ordinary Ferris experience; you’ll step into air-conditioned capsules and glide 400 feet upward, catching glimpses of everything from local theme parks to downtown’s glittering lakes—and on a clear day, you just might spot the launches at Kennedy Space Center.  What makes a spin on The Eye such a must for Labor Day? First, the views are spectacular, especially around sunset, when the city’s landmarks glow and the Florida sky lights up with pastel colors. You can toast the long weekend with bubbly from the Sky Bar and relax as the world spins by below. ICON Park is bursting with live music, street performers, and happy crowds, making it easy to keep the fun going with everything from arcade games to high-energy restaurants.  In the evenings, The Eye itself comes alive with an LED light show, making it the perfect spot to kick off or finish your Labor Day celebrations. Take a selfie with Orlando twinkling behind you—the city’s too pretty not to share.  Island H2O Water Park: Beat the Heat with High-Tech Splash  Labor Day in Orlando is never short on sunshine, so why not cool off at one of the most innovative water parks in Florida? Island H2O Water Park brings the wow factor with slides and attractions that sync up to your own music playlists and let you score points for sharing on social media.  The atmosphere here is lively but laid-back, complete with private cabanas, a chill “Cowabunga Bay” wave pool, and a huge river for floating your cares away. Thrill-seekers race for rides like the Live Streaming Drop or the Reply Racers, while families gravitate to the multi-level splash zone with its massive tipping bucket (expect squeals of delight when that water comes pouring down).  Island H2O steps up its game for holiday weekends with DJ sets, extra games, and special holiday eats—from savory tacos to sweet pineapple swirl snacks. Grab a waterproof wristband to curate your own playlist and let every twist, turn, and loop sync up to your summer style.  WonderWorks Orlando: Science, Silliness, and Unexpected Fun  When you’re in the mood for air conditioning, wild illusions, and hands-on discovery, WonderWorks always delivers. The upside-down building on International Drive is more than just a quirky photo op—it’s a full-on playground for the mind, packed with over a hundred exhibits that let you design your own roller coaster, lay on a bed of nails, and even ride out a simulated hurricane.  Labor Day weekend sees WonderWorks buzzing with families and friends who want to keep the kids thrilled without melting in the sun. Gravity-defying ropes courses, laser tag, and a wildly interactive 4D motion ride round out the offerings, and the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show next door adds an extra dose of high-energy laughs and bottomless pizza and salad—an unbeatable way to end the day.  Overall, WonderWorks is pure, old-school fun meets modern science tricks, all under one dazzlingly weird roof.  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Underwater Wonders & Family Adventures  Curious about creatures of the deep? SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium makes a fabulous stop for Labor Day explorers young and old. Stroll through glass tunnels as hypnotic sharks and graceful rays swim overhead, or kneel down to the touch tanks to meet starfish and sea anemones up close.  What sets this spot apart is not just its floor-to-ceiling tanks, but the wonderfully immersive storytelling. Marine experts share fascinating facts in daily talks, there’s always a themed scavenger hunt, and the jellyfish exhibit looks like a living light show. If you’re lucky, catch a feeding demonstration for a lively show that’ll have everyone gasping (especially if the turtles are feeling feisty).  Stroller-friendly, comfortably air-conditioned, and right in the heart of ICON Park—a hub for restaurants and shopping—SEA LIFE gives you the perfect balance of learning, adventure, and time out of the sun.  Gatorland: Snap Up Some Classic Florida Adventure  You’re in Florida, so why not say hello to the locals that have been around since the time of the dinosaurs? Gatorland is pure, old-school Orlando: equal parts wildlife park, quirky roadside attraction, and up-close animal experience. This is where you’ll see bigger-than-life alligators, rare white ‘gators, and even zippy little marsh-dwellers in a sprawling 110-acre sanctuary.  Prepare to laugh at the Gator Jumparoo Show as massive reptiles leap out of the water for snacks, thrill at the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line flying right above the Gator Breeding Marsh, or brave the Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure. Labor Day often comes with bonus live animal encounters and special photo ops with cuddly (yes, really!) baby gators.  The whole experience feels welcoming and hands-on, perfect for families or anyone who’s wondered what Florida was like before theme parks took over. If you want a break from roller coasters, Gatorland gives you wild stories to tell and photos that’ll make your friends jealous.  Daytona International Speedway Tour: Pedal to the Medal  If you crave a dose of high-octane excitement, zoom northeast to Daytona International Speedway for their track tour. Get up close with the home of the Daytona 500 in style—this legendary motorsports complex lets you ride in an open-air tram right along the track, step up onto Victory Lane for a triumphant photo, or (if you time it right) peek inside the Motorsports Hall of Fame.  Labor Day often means fun extras, from classic car displays to autograph sessions, so even casual fans will find plenty to smile about. The guides here deliver racing lore with a hefty side of humor, making everyone from gearheads to kids-in-strollers feel part of the action. Nothing makes you feel more like a Floridian than standing in the middle of this racing mecca, giant grandstands on every side, just imagining the thunder of race day rolling over the track.  It’s a little different from your Orlando theme-park fare, but that’s what makes it memorable!  Local Fireworks & Free Outdoor Festivals: Celebrate Like a Local  No Labor Day is truly complete without fireworks lighting up the Florida sky or a festive free event down the main street. Orlando pulls out all the stops with a line-up of evening concerts, movies under the stars, and classic backyard BBQ events in parks and lakesides all over town.  Lake Eola Park usually hosts a lively Labor Day Picnic in the Park, complete with live music, food trucks, kids’ crafts, and, after dusk, a beautiful fireworks show over the water. Altamonte Springs, Winter Park, and Celebration neighborhoods love a lakeside festival, so check local calendars for pop-up food markets, art fairs, and street performers that invite you to grab a lawn chair or picnic blanket and soak in the fun.  If you want even more fun, mix in a stop at nearby attractions—The Orlando Eye for nighttime views, or Gatorland to catch their wild Labor Day animal shows before ending your evening with a sky full of lights.    Orlando knows how to make Labor Day sizzle, whether you’re seeking rocket launches, wild animal encounters, lazy river vibes, or sparkling fireworks over the lake. Pack your long weekend with a taste of the unexpected, dive into the city’s endless energy, and let Orlando’s one-of-a-kind attractions and friendly festival scene help you make the summer’s last holiday one for the photo albums. However you celebrate, sunshine, smiles, and splashy memories are guaranteed.    Like this? Check our deep dive into the fascinating Museum of Illusions, and don’t miss our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems.  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! 
Orlando
Blog

Things to Do in Orlando When it Rains

From wacky museums to shopping and dining, there's plenty to keep you entertained.
Katie Sagal

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.