Discover Free Gems Close to Lion Country Safari Adventure

Published: May 12, 2026
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Lion Country Safari may promise giraffes, rhinos, and the ultimate drive-thru animal adventure, but the fun doesn’t have to stop at the park gates. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Palm Beach County and within easy reach of the wider South Florida playground, this area boasts free experiences for every taste and travel style. Whether you’re channeling your inner wild child, a nature buff, or you just crave a slice of authentic local life, the less-traveled paths around Lion Country Safari deliver. Get ready for peaceful parks, quirky museums, vibrant street art, and even waterfront bliss—all waiting to fill your itinerary and your camera roll, but not magically empty your wallet. 

Ready to fill your trip with free adventures? Our favorite free things to do near Lion Country Safari include: 

Peaceful Waters Sanctuary 

Mounts Botanical Garden (Free Times) 

West Palm Beach Waterfront & Clematis Street 

Grassy Waters Preserve 

Norton Museum of Art (Free Admission Days) 

Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park 

Coral Sky Amphitheatre (Free Community Events) 

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens (Select Days) 

Downtown Lake Worth Street Art Tour 

Loggerhead Marinelife Center (Admission Free, Donations Welcome) 

Peaceful Waters Sanctuary

Hidden just a quick drive east of Lion Country Safari, Peaceful Waters Sanctuary offers a totally different kind of “wild”—the kind where nature takes center stage, and humans melt quietly into the background. It sits in the heart of Wellington, a little-known wetland reserve with elevated boardwalks, trails that skirt shimmering ponds, and shaded lookouts that make you feel a world away from the hustle. Admission? Always free. 

What makes Peaceful Waters extra special is the easy access to Florida’s natural magic. As you wander, you’re likely to spot herons and egrets, turtles sunbathing on reeds, and—if you’re lucky—a family of otters practicing synchronized swimming near the water’s edge. Birdwatchers absolutely love this spot, with over a hundred species making cameos throughout the seasons. The looped boardwalk takes you through cypress domes and marshy fields, where towering palms and wildflowers frame every corner. It’s the perfect place to recharge after a morning on safari. 

Bring a camera or binoculars—the wildlife isn’t shy. Benches dot the route if you’d rather sit and soak up the scenery, and the sounds of frogs, crickets, and distant gallinules promise a relaxing soundtrack. Early mornings glow with sunrise light, while evenings invite pink skies and peaceful energy. If your group includes kids, they’ll go wild for spotting baby ducks and lizards scurrying underfoot. Best of all, Peaceful Waters delivers serenity and adventure without costing a cent. 

Mounts Botanical Garden (Free Times) 

If you think a tropical paradise like the Mounts Botanical Garden comes with a hefty price tag, let us share a secret: you can stroll these gorgeous 14-acre gardens free during select days and special events, just a short drive from Lion Country Safari. Expect winding trails that lead past towering palms, lotus-filled ponds, fragrant rose beds, and playful art sculptures. 

Mounts Botanical Garden’s themed gardens will wow your senses—there’s a butterfly garden that feels alive with fluttering wings, a rainbow-hued tropical fruit garden, and even a scented herb maze. Labelled plantings make every walk a living classroom, and water features offer a spot to chill under the shade. Whether you’re a true botany buff or you just want an hour of peaceful exploration, you’ll find something cool under the canopy. 

On occasion, Mounts hosts family days, garden festivals, and nature workshops, where admission is complimentary and local music adds a festive touch. Don’t rush your visit—bring a picnic, settle near the shade of the giant ficus, and let the kids roam the Children’s Maze or feed koi at the pond. Check their schedule online to confirm the next free entry day—sometimes it lines up with your trip! You’ll leave with the scent of jasmine in your hair and plenty of garden inspiration for home. 

West Palm Beach Waterfront & Clematis Street 

Swap safari grasslands for saltwater breezes and city views on the West Palm Beach Waterfront. Clematis Street stretches just over 30 minutes east of Lion Country Safari and is totally free to explore—perfect for impromptu strolls, people watching, and lively local energy. 

The wide public promenade hugs Lake Worth Lagoon, where luxury yachts bob beside pastel-painted buildings, and big shady palms keep things blissfully cool. Wander down Clematis Street and you’ll encounter vibrant sidewalk art, historic architecture, and plenty of charming picnic spots. The Centennial Square fountain bursts into life for kids (and grown-ups) to splash in, especially during Florida’s sunny afternoons. 

On Thursday nights, the waterfront comes alive with Clematis By Night, a free festival of live music, pop-up food vendors, and happy crowds. Pop over to the lively GreenMarket on weekends for local produce and family vibes. Throughout the year, the area hosts parades, art walks, and a boat parade all for free! Soak in sunset views, take Instagram-worthy shots by the tall Royal Palms, and experience Palm Beach culture—all with zero admission fees. 

Grassy Waters Preserve 

Grassy Waters Preserve is one of those rare places where wild Florida feels untouched—an Everglades-like expanse just north of West Palm Beach, and totally free to roam. This 23-square-mile preserve is a haven for nature fans craving cypress swamps, serene marshes, and close encounters with herons, ibis, and even elusive bobcats. 

The trails here range from shaded wooden boardwalks to easy-dirt routes, so you can tailor your experience from a ten-minute amble to a half-day adventure. Educational kiosks along the boardwalks share fun tidbits about wetland wildlife, native flora, and the role this place plays in South Florida’s natural water filtration. Bring your water bottle—the walking is gentle and meditative. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself joined by a sunbathing alligator glimpsed from afar! 

Families love the guided nature walks (always free but check the schedule), scavenger hunts for kids, and ample birdwatching. Settle on a quiet bench to spot turtles surfacing in the lily pads or snap a photo of the dramatic sunset reflected in the water. If tranquility and a pinch of wildness sound like your thing, Grassy Waters is a must. 

Norton Museum of Art (Free Days) 

If cooling off among Picasso sketches or Chihuly glass sounds like fun, make time for the Norton Museum of Art—especially during its no-cost admission days and special community events. One of the top-ranked art museums in South Florida, the Norton is just about 30 minutes’ drive from Lion Country Safari and is filled with world-class art. 

Wander cool, sunlit galleries housing works by American masters, Impressionist icons, vibrant contemporary creators, and classic Chinese sculpture collections. The design is airy and modern, with giant windows welcoming in the Florida light. The best part? On Thursdays and certain holidays, entry is free for everyone! 

Even the outdoor sculpture garden invites a wander, with lush landscaping and intriguing installations peeking around every bend. Free family art classes and hands-on workshops are often held during free days, making this a win for creative explorers of all ages. Whether you spend an hour or a full afternoon, the Norton is a cultural side quest you’ll remember. Check their event calendar to plan your no-cost visit! 

Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park

Located north of Lion Country Safari, this lush green park fuses wild beauty with Florida’s unique history—absolutely free. Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park marks the site of two 1830s Seminole Wars battles, and today it rolls with ancient oaks, sun-dappled picnic grounds, and riverside boardwalks just made for lazy strolls. 

What makes this spot so unique is the blend of preserved history and untouched landscape. Explore interpretive signs detailing the stories of Native American and pioneer communities who lived, worked, and fought in this very spot. Go on a self-guided nature walk—watch for gopher tortoises, wild turkey tracks, and butterflies flitting along the riverbank. 

Saturday mornings often feature living history events, military reenactments, and guided nature tours, all free to the public. Families love the river overlooks for their birdwatching, while selfie-seekers hit the shaded oak groves and wildflower meadows. If you like your free activities with a dose of education and some truly peaceful picnic grounds, this one’s for you. 

iTHINK Amphitheatre (Free Community Events) 

Think “amphitheatre” and your wallet might twitch, but iTHINK Amphitheatre—just over a 20-minute drive from Lion Country Safari—hosts plenty of free-to-enter community festivals, kids’ concerts, and movie nights throughout the year. Set against wide-open skies and lush green lawns, the atmosphere here makes for memorable alfresco evenings. 

Bring your own blanket or camping chairs, kick back on the spacious lawn, and let the rhythms of live local bands or a feel-good family film soundtrack your night out. Food trucks and free activities for kids often log on during festivities, lending a lively neighborhood vibe. Even outside formal events, the adjacent park areas offer shaded paths and perfect-for-picnics viewpoints. 

Check the amphitheatre’s online schedule or the local tourism board’s event listings—spring and autumn are especially packed with no-cost experiences that offer culture, music, and warm community spirit. If your goal is big energy without big spending, Coral Sky’s free nights fit perfectly. 

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens (Special Days) 

Palm Beach is packed with gardens, but the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens win hearts for their whimsical outdoor art, dramatic brick studio, and, on select community and garden day festivals, free admission. Tucked away on historic Flagler Drive, these lush two acres showcase the monumental sculptures of Ann Norton, plus rare tropical palms and bamboo groves. 

What’s rarely matched is the peaceful, almost secret-garden vibe you’ll find here. Roam shaded paths while discovering gigantic stone figures, abstract bronze shapes, and charming garden nooks filled with orchids or ferns. During special art days or local charity events, everyone’s welcome to wander without a ticket—follow their social media for the current schedule. 

Inside, the sculpture studio’s brick walls tell the story of Ann’s creative life and Florida’s artistic legacy. Outside, sculpture lovers, daydreamers, and green-thumbed travelers will find ample inspiration among the leafy tunnels and koi-filled ponds. It’s a pocket paradise with a twist of culture—no wallet required on the right day! 

Downtown Lake Worth Street Art Tour 

If you love your travel with a side of color and free-spirited creativity, carve out time for a DIY tour of Downtown Lake Worth’s street art and murals. This artsy neighborhood—just 40 minutes from Lion Country Safari—is shaped by a love of all things quirky and independent, making it the perfect spot for no-cost sightseeing. 

Tour the blocks around Lucerne and Lake Avenue on foot or by bike, and you’ll spot bold public murals by local artists, often spotlighting themes of diversity, hope, or sunny Florida life. Pop into the free cultural plaza (which regularly hosts community art fairs and dance events) and pause at eclectic outdoor sculptures for the perfect photo op. 

Chill under the palms with a coffee from a family-run café (many offer free samples!) or browse the rotating pop-up markets that dot the street on weekends. Don’t rush—every corner hides a new splash of paint or clever public installation. Bring friends and an open mind, and let the street art tell Lake Worth’s story in color. 

Loggerhead Marinelife Center (Admission Free, Donations Welcome) 

Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach is the perfect finale for your free-spirited Palm Beach adventure—and it’s just a short drive from the safari gates. Admission is always free (funded by generous donations) and the experience is unforgettable, especially for animal-loving families. 

Step inside to explore lively, kid-friendly exhibits on sea turtle rescue, conservation, and coastal ecosystems. Visit the outdoor hospital tanks, where rescued loggerheads and other turtles receive care before being released back to the wild. The center’s friendly volunteers are happy to answer questions and share rescue stories that tug at the heartstrings. 

Kids can peek into the hospital, race rubber turtles, and follow interactive trails that teach about ocean conservation—all at no charge. The adjacent boardwalk leads down to one of the area’s prettiest beaches, perfect for a picnic or sandy toes stroll. Don’t skip the butterfly garden and native plant walk outside—turtles (and people) feel right at home. 

 

The sun may set on your Lion Country Safari adventure, but the exploration doesn’t have to end. With lively city streets, wild wetlands, curated gardens, and free family festivals all in easy reach, Palm Beach County proves you don’t have to spend big to make lasting memories. From peaceful sunrise walks to art-filled evenings or hands-on animal experiences, this corner of Florida has you covered, wallet happily untouched. 

 

Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and discover brilliant birthdays in the city 

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Best Museums in Orlando

Orlando is consistently ranked amongst the most popular tourist destinations in the United States – and it’s easy to see why. Whilst the city is perhaps best known for its famous theme parks, you may be surprised and delighted by its wide variety of cultural institutions. The best museums in Orlando run the gamut – from super fun to highly educational. For creative types, the Orlando Museum of Art is the perfect stop. If science is more your thing, then the Kennedy Space Center is well worth the visit. Or, if you’re looking for something a little different, the Museum of Illusions provides a mind-bending experience like no other. Check out this list of some of our favorites, and be sure to schedule a visit whilst you’re in the area! Fun for all the Family Have you ever wanted to see a NASA rocket close up? Well, now you can! A museum for curious minds, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides an engaging and educational experience with a focus on technology, aviation and human flight. Delve into the wonders of space travel, touch a piece of moon rock, and strap in for a simulation of a space shuttle’s take-off into orbit! In addition, you can attend talks and seminars held by real veteran astronauts. Dedicated to bringing the world of space travel to a broader audience, the institute provides a one-of-a-kind experience quite like no other. Whether you’re scientifically-minded or just plain curious, the Orlando Science Center works to feed inquisitive minds. As fun as it is educational, the institute works to demystify and break down complicated ideas through its exciting displays. Spread across six whole floors, the museum features exhibitions on everything from space travel and gravity to the development of the natural world - it’s really all up to you to choose your area! In addition, there’s a special spot just for kids, with engaging skill-based and learning activities and excitement around every corner. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Learn Something New If you’re looking for innovation and culture in the City Beautiful, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Founded by a group of art enthusiasts in 1924, the Orlando Museum of Art works to encourage intellectual curiosity and creative thought. Its collection is equal parts impressive and fascinating, spanning from the 18th right through to the 20th century. Walking through the museum, you’ll be able to view seminal pieces from American and international artists, ranging from recognizable classics to pivotal modern works. Highlights include influential works by Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Georgia O’Keeffe. As exciting as it is educational, the institution delivers an unmissable cultural experience for all art lovers. A trip to the museum is so much more than just a great way to spend a low-key afternoon in the city; you can also view items of huge cultural significance. Originally, the Wells’Built Museum served as a hotel and entertainment venue for African Americans visiting Orlando. It was even host to many now-famous performers, including Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Ray Charles. Since then, the building has been transformed into an educational facility dedicated to social past, present and future. Inside, you’ll find memorabilia of the city’s black community, displays on the Civil Rights movement, and some African art and artefacts. Trace human history and culture and leave having learned something new. Another one of our favorite cultural institutes in the city has got to be the Orlando Fire Museum. Built into a restored 1926 firehouse, this place showcases the rich and proud background of the area’s fire department. For anybody who loves history, the museum’s comprehensive collection is sure to spark intrigue. Within its permanent repository, you’ll find tools and apparatus from as early as the 1900s, including hoses, uniforms, lithographs, and more. As you make your way around the building, you’ll get to hear more about the history of the field from retired firefighters themselves. Still, the star of the show is of course the institute’s fascinating collection of antique fire engines. Bringing a fascinating part of the past to life, this cultural gem highlights the valuable work that firefighters do. Try Something Different Anybody who’s travelling with family might just appreciate the next item on our list. As the name suggests, the Museum of Illusions presents an immersive brain-twisting experience for you and your loved ones. Sure to blow you away, the institute offers a wholly unique experience that works to test your perspective and trick the mind. With over 50 captivating exhibits to choose from, the fun never quite ends here. Upon entrance, you’ll find everything from kaleidoscopes and holograms to tilted and reverse rooms. See if you can work out how some of the displays work, and definitely don’t forget to take some snaps for Instagram! The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum is one of the top places to visit in Orlando for artsy types. As a speciality institute, this place is best known for housing the largest collection of the American artist Louis Comfort Tiffany. Touring the museum is a total treat for the eyes, with each work more vibrant and detailed than the last. Still, that isn’t all there is to see here. Also noted for its wonderful Art Nouveau collection, the museum features works by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright, William Morris and Louis Sullivan. Utterly captivating and unique, this hidden treasure works to showcase the development of modern American art. Not to knock the theme parks, but Orlando has way more to see beyond Disney World. With specialities ranging from important works of art to scientific discoveries and other family-friendly educational experiences, there’s a little something for everybody here. One thing that all of these places have in common is that they’re sure to take your breath away. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Rainy Day Orlando: Unmissable Attractions Whatever the Weather

Rain might not be on your Orlando vacation vision board, but here’s a secret: some of the city’s quirkiest adventures are found indoors! When the sky surprises you with a downpour, don’t just dash for cover. Orlando’s got a long list of standout attractions that swap ponchos for pure excitement—think mind-bending museums, underwater worlds, interactive theaters, and even indoor go-karts that’ll have you grinning ear to ear. Ready to discover a whole new side of the Sunshine State? We’ve got your ultimate rainy day itinerary right here, guaranteed to keep spirits high and your socks dry.  Orlando’s Best Things to Do When It Rains:  Our wet-weather favorites include:  Kennedy Space Center  WonderWorks  Madame Tussauds Orlando  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Museum of Illusions  The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show  Chocolate Kingdom  Shopping and snacking at Disney Springs  Discovering gems at Orlando Science Center  Brewery hopping (with a twist!) in Ivanhoe Village  WonderWorks: The Upside-Down Attraction  Ever seen a building that looks like it crash-landed on its roof? WonderWorks grabs your attention before you even step inside. This cutely chaotic, upside-down “edu-tainment” lab is a hit with families and anyone itching to discover something new and a little kooky.  The moment you enter, you’re welcomed by 35,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, ranging from hurricane tunnels (windy but dry!), to glow-in-the-dark ropes courses, to brain-bending puzzles and mind tricks. Want to lie on a bed of nails? Try your hand at virtual sports? Dance on a giant piano? The possibilities seem endless—and the rain, irrelevant.  One thing we absolutely love about WonderWorks is how it turns learning into a game. Kids can fire off virtual rockets, adults can get lost in an earthquake simulator, and groups can easily fill an afternoon racing against the clock in the physical and mental challenge zones. The best part? Every display sparks giggles, curiosity, and competitive family fun—all without a drop of actual rain indoors.  Madame Tussauds Orlando: The Ultimate Rainy Day Selfie Spot  Orlando’s Madame Tussauds isn’t just famous—it’s gloriously star-studded. Where else can you brush elbows with Aquaman, belt a tune with Ariana Grande, and share a secret with Oprah—all before lunch? Rain means crowds might be lighter, so you’ve got more space to snap that perfect ‘gram.  There’s something special about the Tussauds collection here: it blends pop culture, sports legends, history makers, and comic book heroes with playful backdrops and interactive sets. Orlando’s version even includes local legends and unique touches inspired by the city’s vibrant personality. The star power isn’t limited to statues; you’ll find fun photo challenges, themed props, and staff on hand to help stage the perfect pose.  It’s the kind of place you don’t just stroll through—you perform, pose, and play. Craft your own Hollywood walk of fame, recreate an infamous meme with your besties, or chill with big-screen icons. Madame Tussauds Orlando doesn’t just keep you dry—it sets you up for a hilarious, memory-making adventure that’ll outshine any rainy-day grumbles.  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: An Ocean Adventure Under Cover  Forget soggy shoes and misty glasses. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium whisks you away on a magical underwater journey—no sunscreen needed. Start your exploration in the 360-degree ocean tunnel, where sharks, turtles, and rays glide silently overhead. You won’t find anyone reaching for an umbrella—just awestruck faces looking up.  The aquarium’s enormous tanks showcase everything from dazzling seahorses to mischievous clownfish, plus interactive touch pools where brave souls can handle starfish or horseshoe crabs. The educational displays are built for curiosity, with clever panels, playful signs, and fascinating keeper talks (ideal for both big and little kids with a million questions).  What sets SEA LIFE apart is the immersive ambiance. Moody blue lighting, bubbling tanks, and the gentle whoosh of water turn even the rainiest Orlando afternoon into a deeply calming escape. Whether you’re photographing weird and wonderful sea creatures or simply pausing to watch jellyfish pulse in their spectacular neon tank, every moment here feels like the best kind of underwater dream.  The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: Dine, Laugh, and Gasp  Dinner and a show, but with a magical twist—Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show is Orlando’s answer to gloomier weather and growling stomachs in one hit. Hosted at WonderWorks (so double up for extra fun!), this 90-minute whirlwind features zany magic, stand-up comedy, audience participation, and all-you-can-eat pizza, salad, and drinks.  The show’s unique blend of illusions, quick-fire jokes, and improv keeps the audience in stitches—don’t be surprised if you end up on-stage! The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly with performers who read the room and play up the crowd’s energy. Whether you’re traveling with kids, on a group trip, or a solo explorer in need of a pick-me-up, this immersive experience gets everyone clapping, whooping, and leaving with a happy stomach (and a few magic tricks up your sleeve).  Set in an intimate dining room with a vintage vaudeville vibe, there’s not a bad seat in the house. We recommend showing up hungry—and ready for a barrage of “how did they do that?” moments from start to finish. At Outta Control, rainy evenings become a riot of laughter and old-school entertainment.  Chocolate Kingdom: Sweet Satisfaction for Every Age  Rainy days invite us to indulge—and Orlando’s Chocolate Kingdom delivers sweetness and smiles all under one roof. This family-run chocolate factory and museum walks you through the cocoa journey from bean to bar, complete with hands-on demos, samples, and the chance to become a chocolatier for the day.  Your guided tour is a multisensory treat: sniff cocoa beans, watch tempering at the chocolate river, and build (and taste!) your own dreamy candy bar. The storybook theme adds a friendly touch, with funny guides and interactive storytelling that keeps everyone involved, whether they’re gourmet fans or just eager nibblers.  Behind the scenes, you’ll see the art of chocolate making up close and learn about everything from ancient Mayan recipes to modern flavor fusions. The best bit? The shop. Stocked full of handcrafted, imaginative bars (try the signature Florida orange or chili chocolate for a taste adventure), it’s the perfect spot to get edible souvenirs or shelter from showers with a cup of the richest hot chocolate you’ve tasted. At Chocolate Kingdom, rainy days are always delicious.  Shopping and Snacking at Disney Springs: Retail Therapy with Extra Magic  Rain might close the pool, but at Disney Springs, the fun keeps flowing indoors. Shopaholics and foodies will both rejoice—this sprawling entertainment district offers everything from international boutiques and themed stores to creative cocktail bars and out-of-this-world snacks.  Dodge rainclouds as you dip between Disney Style for bold photo ops, Uniqlo for affordable fashion, and The Art of Disney for browse-worthy artwork. Orlando downpours are just an excuse to linger in stores bursting with exclusive merch, cool collectibles, and playful décor. Refuel at Gideon’s Bakehouse, famous for half-pound cookies loaded with chocolate chips, or settle into The Polite Pig for chef-driven barbecue and craft beers.  Disney Springs is more than retail—live performers work every corner with music, magic, and dance. Cozy up at Raglan Road for Irish pub vibes, hearty shepherd’s pie, and a pint of Guinness. Or escape to Splitsville Luxury Lanes, where you’ll find bowling, sushi, and retro cocktails all under one roof. The verdict? Rainy in Orlando just means more reasons to linger, shop, eat, and soak up that Disney magic.  Orlando Science Center: Four Floors of Hands-On Wonder  Moments from downtown, the Orlando Science Center proves that rainy weather boosts curiosity rather than dampens it. This multilevel museum is built for hands-on exploration, with gleaming exhibits that make science fun—think flight simulators, dinosaur fossils, tinkering labs, and live interaction with real scientists and animal keepers.  From the thunderous ‘Science Live’ shows (think fireballs, lasers, or liquid nitrogen experiments) to the planetarium dome that whisks you to distant galaxies, there’s a wow moment around every corner. Young visitors gravitate to KidsTown, a playful world of water play, building zones, and pint-sized experiments. Teen science fans love battling robots and diving into the Dig for fossils.  The center’s enormous windows and bright design make the rainy day feel almost sunny, with cozy nooks for reading, clever hands-on challenges, and educational staff always happy to share a story or experiment. Learning here feels like play—and you’ll stay dry and inspired for hours on end.  Brewery Hopping in Ivanhoe Village: Cheers to Cozy Sips  For grown-up travelers seeking shelter, a rainy day is your green light to tour Orlando’s eclectic breweries in scenic Ivanhoe Village. Start at Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company, where the industrial-chic taproom buzzes with local artists, trivia nights, and board games. Sip classics like the Joyland American IPA or unique Florida-inspired sours while rain drums against the mural-clad windows.  Next, detour to ten10 Brewing Co., known for laid-back vibes and small-batch creativity—grab a tasting flight and snack on local bites or sample their ever-changing food truck lineup outside. In between brews, stroll through vintage shops and indie art galleries lining Virginia Drive.  Ivanhoe Village is Orlando’s answer to rainy-day cool: relaxed, colorful, and full of friendly faces. Each brewery is unique but welcoming—staff are always keen to offer recommendations or spin a story about their latest experimental ale. If you’re feeling peckish, Gnarly Barley makes monster sandwiches, while The Yard’s food hall serves global street eats. Who says you need sunshine for a stellar afternoon out?    Orlando’s forecast might call for rain, but your vacation can still shine with excitement, discovery, and plenty of cozy treats. From floating in an underwater tunnel to striking a pose with Hollywood legends or crafting your own chocolate creation, the city transforms cloudy skies into an open invitation for fun. So tuck away that umbrella and dive into Orlando’s vibrant, weather-proof adventures—you’ll soon realize some of the best Florida memories happen when you least expect them.    Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, 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! 
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Christmas in Orlando

You might think of Orlando as the place to be during the warmer months, but trust us when we say that you won’t want to miss out on Christmastime in the city. We’re talking exciting seasonal experiences, spectacular light displays, and awesome winter villages. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned visitor, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. If you’re travelling with family, be sure to check out the special events held at some of the city’s most famous theme parks. For something a little more traditional, head over to the annual Winter Park Christmas Parade. Or, if you want something a little more low-key, the lights at Harry P. Leu Gardens are well worth the visit. And, if you're still struggling to come up with ideas for what to do during the most magical time of the year – don't worry! We’ve compiled a list of our favorite things to see and do during the holiday season. Hit the Classics A trip to Orlando just wouldn’t be complete without making a stop at Magic Kingdom – and what better time to visit than the holidays? A total American classic, the park is often dubbed the happiest place on earth – and it’s easy to see why. Favorite mainstays include It’s a Small World, Space Mountain, and of course, the iconic Cinderella Castle. Magic Kingdom not only impresses throughout the year with an abundance of famous rides and attractions to be enjoyed – it also happens to offer special events around Christmastime. When visiting during the month of December, be sure to check out the seasonal parades, firework displays, and magical ‘’snowfalls’’, transforming the park into an enchanting winter wonderland. Thoroughly whimsical and joyful to boot, this one should rank at the very top of everyone’s itinerary! With the cooler weather and smaller crowds during the holiday season, it’s a great time to check out some of Orlando's world-class adventure parks. Standing out as a unique celebration of human achievement, Epcot is a go-to for many first-time visitors to the city. Spanning over 300 acres and encompassing over four different ‘’neighborhoods’’, each with their own theme, there’s a lot to see and do here for every type of traveller. During the festive season, the park brings the wow factor with its International Festival of Holidays – a fantastic celebration showcasing various traditions from cultures across the globe. We love this idea because it’s interesting and presents a little something for everybody. Don’t miss it! Find Fun Activities Located along the tropical Southeastern coastline, Orlando is home to many wonderful green spaces just waiting to be explored. Established way back in the 1800s, Harry P. Leu Gardens is a beautiful site to visit any time of the year. In the early days of the park’s development, the Leus travelled all over the world, bringing back a wide variety of exotic greenery to fill their gardens. Today, the plot is open to the public all year round, with special events being held for certain holidays. For the ultimate Christmastime experience, be sure to check out the Dazzling Nights display, running all throughout the month of December. With beautiful lighting installations, music, and food, this stop is sure to put a smile on your face. Always well worth the visit, Legoland is forever brimming with fantastic things to delight the whole family. Named after the popular toy brick company, this place ranks way up there with Magic Kingdom as one of our all-time favorites. Living up to its slogan ‘’Built for Kids’’, the park offers around 30 child-friendly rides and attractions for ages 2-12 – but that’s no reason that we shouldn’t get involved! Christmas is an especially great time to visit, since you’ll get to enjoy all of the regular attractions, but with a little added holiday cheer. During the month of December, the park goes all out, with special light shows, pantomimes, and of course, a Lego tree and Santa Claus. Well, what else would we expect? Soak Up the Atmosphere If you’re looking for spectacular light displays, look no further than the Night of a Million Lights. Billed as the ‘’Number One Thing to Do In December In Orlando’’, this fantastical winter wonderland is bursting with holiday spirit. Despite its name, the event runs for 52 nights, and with over 3 million lights donated by local theme parks, it’s quite a show. Still, the outdoor exhibitions aren’t the only thing to see here. Enjoy festive snacks as you walk. Take a train ride through the village. Browse the stalls at the Christmas market. Situated at the Give Kids The World Village, this traditional boardwalk is much more than just a great seasonal stop; buying a ticket will go towards helping families in need. Incredibly charming and atmospheric, there’s no place that captures the spirit of Christmas quite like this one in the city. For those looking for a traditional way to celebrate the holidays on vacation, head over to the annual Winter Park Christmas Parade. Standing as the oldest continuous holiday celebration in Central Florida, this flamboyant event is a total must-see if you’re the type to get uber-excited around December 25th (we know we are!) A longstanding favorite for locals and visitors alike, the parade offers a quintessential seasonal entertainment experience quite like no other. With over 80 participating organizations, you’ll be able to enjoy marching bands, animated displays, and of course, Santa Claus! Incredibly wholesome and full of life, we don’t recommend skipping out on this one. Just be sure to arrive early so you can catch a great view! There are a lot of ways to get into the holiday spirit in Orlando. From dazzling light displays to exciting events, you’ll find that there are countless ways to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year in the city. Trust us when we say, you most certainly run out of things to do here during the festive season. 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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