Orlando Face-Off: Celebrity Encounters or Mind-Tricking Marvels?

Published: April 29, 2026
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Wax Celebrities vs. Wild Illusions: Who Comes Out on Top in Orlando? 

Planning a visit to Orlando and stuck between two crowd-pleasers—Madame Tussauds Orlando and the Museum of Illusions? We get it. On one side, there’s the timeless thrill of striking a pose with the glittering elite at Madame Tussauds. On the other, your sense of reality stands ready to be turned upside down at the Museum of Illusions. Ready to see how each stacks up for photo-ops, family fun, hands-on play or even just grabbing an epic lunch nearby? Let’s dive into which experience best fits your perfect itinerary. 

The lowdown 

Madame Tussauds Orlando 

  • Snap selfies with wax versions of your favorite film, music, sports and pop culture legends 

  • Playful, interactive zones for every fandom (think superheroes, royalty, and movie icons) 

  • Located at ICON Park, a hub teeming with eateries, bars, shopping and attractions 

  • Excellent for group shots, solo snaps, or creative family poses 

  • Touch, pose, and interact—yes, you’re allowed to get up close to the figures! 

  • Ever-evolving lineup, so you might catch the latest stars 

Museum of Illusions Orlando 

  • Over 50 mind-twisting exhibits and rooms designed to bend your brain and your camera’s reality 

  • Clever scientific tricks make for seriously playful Instagram moments 

  • Suits all ages—kids laugh, adults puzzle, everyone gets involved 

  • Part of ICON Park, so you’re surrounded by restaurants, entertainment, and the Orlando Wheel 

  • Known for its Vortex Tunnel, Tilted Room, and immersive photo illusions 

  • Playful, accessible, and surprisingly educational 

Sounds good, tell me more... 

Madame Tussauds Orlando

Ready for your red carpet close-up? Walk through doors and you’re instantly swept into a salon of A-listers, complete with meticulously crafted wax figures that look uncannily lifelike. There’s a real sense of fun and freedom around the place—nobody shushes you here for getting handsy with Spider-Man or photobombing Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Each section is themed, so you glide from Hollywood to world leaders, sports stadiums to music stages and even the world of superheroes, snapping playful photos along the way. 

We love the museum’s enthusiasm for interactivity. Dress up, strike a silly pose, stage your own pop concert or take command at the Oval Office—there’s permission and encouragement to play. The lighting setups and backdrops aren’t just incidental: they’re designed for the ultimate selfies and group photos. Every visit has the thrill of discovering that a new celeb might be waiting around the corner. 

Museum of Illusions Orlando

Ready for something a little more... twisted? The Museum of Illusions blends art, science and delight, offering up rooms that challenge your sense of space, size, gravity and perception at every turn. Step inside the Ames Room and find yourself growing taller (or shrinking shorter) with a few quick steps. Get lost in the depths of the Infinity Room. Sometimes, you’ll find your head seemingly served on a platter or your friend walking on the ceiling. And best of all? Every illusion is designed for you to become the star of the picture. 

The vibe is pure play—expect laughter, puzzled expressions, and a lot of camera flashes. It’s educational too, since each illusion comes with clever explanations for the why and how, meaning everyone leaves a little bit brighter (and with a full camera roll). Groups, solo explorers, or couples on date night all find themselves giggling and competing for the best mind-bending snap. 

Okay, so which one is most impressive? 

Both venues deliver what Orlando does best: immersive, playful escapism. Madame Tussauds impresses with the craftsmanship of its lifelike waxworks—sometimes so convincing you’ll be double-taking at your own snaps. The chance to “meet” a diverse roll call of celebrities, athletes, and history-makers adds a certain star power not many attractions can match. 

The Museum of Illusions plays a different game—it will literally twist your viewpoint. By cleverly using angles, mirrors, and perspective, this attraction sparks delight and debate (“Wait, how did you do that?”) and ensures that no two visits are quite the same. If you love to marvel at the unexpected and challenge your senses, it’s an unbeatable choice. 

Which one is more fun? 

This depends on what tickles your group’s sense of play. Madame Tussauds is terrific for role-playing, silly group poses, and channeling your inner celebrity. It transforms the selfie into an experience, letting everyone from toddlers to grandparents get silly with history, music, politics, and pop culture. 

Meanwhile, the Museum of Illusions is fast-paced, physically interactive, and hits the sweet spot for families and friends with a competitive streak (“Who pulled off the best levitation snap?”). It’s perfect if your idea of fun involves a side of challenge and surprise with every corner. 

Which is more beautiful? 

Madame Tussauds’ appeal is in its artistry. The figures are meticulously painted, posed and placed in settings that range from glittering Hollywood glamour to regal palaces. The lighting helps everyone glow — and the sets and props make each photo look like a studio production. 

Museum of Illusions, on the other hand, draws its beauty from dizzying patterns, bold colors, and impossible reflections. The design vibes are clean, modern, and playful—with some rooms inspired by urban street art and others by scientific wonder. It’s not serene, but it sure is striking and memorable in every photo. 

Which has the better view? 

Both attractions are indoors, so you won’t find city panoramas mid-visit. However, ICON Park’s location means that as you step out of either museum, you’re greeted by Orlando’s thriving entertainment district and the unmissable observation wheel known as The Wheel at ICON Park. If soaking up views is important, plan an extra ride on The Wheel—it’s only steps away and offers sweeping views across the city, especially stunning at sunset. 

How do I get there? 

Both Madame Tussauds and Museum of Illusions share a prime spot at ICON Park, right on International Drive. This location makes them not only central but also extremely accessible: 

By I-RIDE Trolley: The I-RIDE Trolley runs along International Drive from morning into the late evening (check the current schedule online). Both attractions are just a few steps from the ICON Park stop. 

By Bus: LYNX bus routes 8, 38, and 42 all stop near ICON Park. If you’re coming from downtown Orlando, you can hop on a bus and be dropped off just a couple of minutes’ walk from the entrance. 

By Car: Free parking is available in the multi-level ICON Park garage (a rare Orlando bonus), making it easy if you’re driving. 

By Rideshare: Drop-off and pick-up points are right at the ICON Park entrance, making Uber and Lyft an easy option. 

Best choice for families, couples or friends 

Families: Both venues cater perfectly to kids, teens, and parents alike. Madame Tussauds leans a little more towards younger kids who’ll love the superheroes and princess zones. The Museum of Illusions keeps things lively for school-aged children and teens with interactive exhibits and plenty of room to burn off energy. 

Couples: Museum of Illusions is a quirky, laugh-filled date idea, especially for couples who want a memorable, shared experience. Madame Tussauds scores for more classic fun—imagine proposing to your partner in front of their favorite movie star waxwork, or re-creating your first concert with a pop icon. 

Friends: Both spots are social media goldmines, so snap-happy groups of friends will have an absolute ball. If you’re looking to get creative or challenge each other to “who wore it best?” or “who pulled off the wackiest pose?” Madame Tussauds is your playground. For those who love a running photo competition, Museum of Illusions wins. 

I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities? 

At Madame Tussauds, restless energy meets its match among themed props, dress-up opportunities, and tactile wax hands-on fun. Each area is built for interaction—kids can twirl with superheroes, grip a tennis racket beside Serena Williams, or even step behind the presidential podium. 

The Museum of Illusions offers non-stop hands-on activity with puzzles, games, and rooms that beg you to climb, jump, or pose. Everything is built for touch—encouraging kids (and adults) to interact physically and mentally. For kids that just can’t sit still, this is a clear winner. 

What’s the accessibility like? 

Madame Tussauds keeps things easy for all visitors. The venue is entirely wheelchair-accessible, with elevators where needed, wide walkways, and assistance from helpful staff. 

Museum of Illusions is thoughtfully designed for accessibility as well: it’s step-free, has wide doors, and plenty of room for maneuvering mobility aids. Staff are ready to help with any special requirements. 

Best lunch spots nearby? 

ICON Park overflows with options for feeding any size group, mood, or budget. Here’s what stands out: 

Yard House: A creative, modern sports bar with an absurdly wide selection of draft beers (over 100 on tap). Their Nashville hot chicken sandwich and truffle fries are crowd favorites. Loads of vegetarian and gluten-free options too. The vibe is buzzy but not overwhelming. 

Tin Roof: Here you get Southern-inspired bar bites and live music in a relaxed, colorful setting. The hot chicken nachos pair perfectly with a craft brew, and the funky stage decor gives every meal a side of party. 

Shake Shack: For fast, classic Americana, nothing beats Shake Shack’s ShackBurger with crinkle-cut fries and a velvety frozen custard. Ideal for a quick bite between attractions. Open, casual, and family-friendly. 

Ole Red Orlando: Celebrity-owned, with Southern bar food, an outdoor patio, live country music, and a great people-watching perch. The fried green tomatoes and pulled pork sliders steal the show. 

Market Place at ICON Park: This food hall inside ICON Park offers grab-and-go eats, from sushi to burgers, sweets to salads. Perfect for large groups wanting something for every taste. 

Where are the best photo opportunities? 

Madame Tussauds: Don’t miss a snap with the superhero lineup—dramatic lighting and props make for power-packed photos. The music stage features are built for candid dancing shots, and the presidential suite lets you spoof White House moments. For something regal, pose by Queen Elizabeth II or the royal family—probably the closest most of us will ever get. 

Museum of Illusions: The Infinity Room dazzles with endless reflections. The Ames Room creates hilarious, head-scratching height illusions. The Vortex Tunnel is a photo must, producing “impossibly” warped backgrounds. For the best lighting, hit the museum mid-morning or later in the afternoon—harsh midday sun can create window glare in some rooms. 

Pro tip: Always take bursts of shots to capture the split-second effects, especially in the rooms with spinning or fast-moving floor illusions. 

We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area? 

Absolutely—ICON Park is packed with options. 

High-end: The Wheelhouse Bar (inside ICON Park) boasts sleek décor, a fabulous view of The Wheel, and creative cocktails. Try their signature “Sky High Gin Fizz”—citrusy, refreshing, and as glitzy as the setting. 

Mid-range: Tin Roof serves up solid local beers and creative cocktails in a party-friendly, music-lovers’ setting. Thursday nights pack a punch with live performances. 

Budget-friendly: Pretzelmaker isn’t your classic bar, but their frozen lemonade spiked with a shot of spirit (judiciously offered at happy hour) wins points for originality and refreshment. 

The whole ICON Park complex stays lively from lunch through late night, so you’ll find somewhere whatever your mood or budget. 

Any other good stuff nearby? 

The Wheel at ICON Park: Hop aboard for a 400-foot-high sweep across Orlando—best at sunset, when the city twinkles below. 

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Right next door, this family-friendly aquarium brings you face-to-face with sharks, rays, turtles, and mesmerizing jellyfish tunnels. 

Pearl Express Train: A whimsical mini train for little ones, circling the park’s lively courtyard. 

Free walking trail: Step just behind ICON Park to the I-Drive trail—a pretty, palm-dotted landscaped walk that’s a favorite for locals taking a break from the action. 

Local tip: If you’re around on a weekend, check out ICON Park’s outdoor pop-up markets—food trucks, art stalls, and live music spill across the plaza. 

Both delivered—and with a pass, you can do both! 

Ultimately, Madame Tussauds and the Museum of Illusions each bring their own unique flavors to your Orlando adventure—one with glamorous celebrities, the other with playful mind tricks. Whichever you pick (or better yet, if you choose both), you’re in the heart of Orlando’s best entertainment district with plenty to fill your camera, satisfy your appetite, and keep every member of your group smiling. And with Go City, you’ll save money on all these attractions and more—now that’s the smart way to see Orlando. 

 

Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, or browse the city’s market scene.    

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LEGOLAND® Florida vs. Fun Spot America: Your Orlando Thrill Guide

Planning a trip to Orlando can sometimes feel like sorting a bucket of loose LEGO® bricks: colorful, exciting, a little overwhelming, and loaded with possibilities. With the city bursting at the seams with theme parks, picking where to spend your precious holiday hours is no small task! Two gems that always spark curiosity—LEGOLAND® Florida and Fun Spot America—offer very different spins on family fun. Whether you’re craving bright, brick-built worlds or the whoosh of wild coasters, our guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the park that fits your group’s vibe, energy level, and appetite for fun.  The Lowdown  LEGOLAND® Florida  Location: Winter Haven, about 45 minutes from Orlando proper  Top draw: 150 acres packed with rides, stunning LEGO® creations, and a water park (seasonal)  Perfect for: Kids ages 2-12, LEGO® fans, families  Cool factor: Miniland USA’s tiny cities, LEGO® -themed roller coasters, and a lush botanical garden  Extras: Onsite LEGO® hotels, immersive experiences, special events    Fun Spot America Orlando  Location: Heart of International Drive, minutes from Universal and Disney  Top draw: Classic wooden coaster (White Lightning), multi-level go-karts, carnival rides, and arcade  Perfect for: All-ages thrill-seekers, classic amusement park lovers, quick fun  Cool factor: Free admission, pay-as-you-play, unlimited wristbands available  Extras: SkyCoaster, bumper cars, and an old-school fairground feel  Sounds good, tell me more...  Okay, so which one is most impressive?  LEGOLAND® Florida stands out for its unique creativity—where else can you see cities built from meticulously snapped-together bricks or zip around on a LEGO® dragon? The park’s scale means you can easily spend a full day (or two!), discovering world-building on an epic scale. Little surprises hide around every corner—talking figures, intricate mosaics, and whimsical shows. Everything here leans into adventure for kids, with gentle thrills tailored for toddlers up to tweens.  Fun Spot America, meanwhile, impresses with its flexibility and old-school appeal. You don’t need to plan your whole day around it—just pop in, grab some instant excitement, and move on to your next Orlando adventure. Its rides hit that sweet spot between adrenaline and nostalgia. The multi-level go-karts are a highlight, and climbing onto the SkyCoaster, you’ll appreciate just how high you’re soaring over the city’s colorful skyline. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the fun is just as real.  Which one is more fun?  They both bring a riot of energy, but in their own ways. LEGOLAND® shines for immersive worlds, hands-on play and the simple delight of creating something together. Families love the cooperative spirit—build memories (and castles), solve puzzles, and laugh through interactive shows. The magic sits in the details: the smell of fresh bricks, mischievous LEGO®  characters posing for photos, and the palpable sense of discovery.  Fun Spot America races ahead for classic, visceral thrills. The sensation of wind in your hair as you barrel down a go-kart track, the rush of White Lightning, and the giddy freedom of hopping from ride to ride at your own pace. It beckons groups of friends, teens, and anyone who wants that old-fashioned, no-fuss thrill with a sprinkle of nostalgia.  Which is more beautiful?  LEGOLAND® Florida’s lush, colorful sprawl wins here. The park weaves through a lush former botanical garden, with towering pines framing scenes of minifigs, rainbow-bright brickwork, and shimmering lakes. Paths wind you between whimsical LEGO® sculptures, splashing water features, and flower gardens where the colors pop in every direction. Sunshine or storm, LEGOLAND® always looks vibrant—and the natural surroundings ensure you don’t forget you’re in sunny Florida.  Fun Spot America channels a lively fairground charm. Neon lights, classic rides, vibrant signage, and sunsets over International Drive create a fun, energetic setting. When the coasters light up in the evening, and popcorn scents waft through the park, you get that warm, buzzing carnival glow that feels like summer year-round.  Which has the better view?  At LEGOLAND® Florida, climb the Island in the Sky rotating platform to get sweeping vistas of Lake Eloise and the surrounding park. The lakefront setting offers plenty of spots to pause and admire the water sparkling among the bricks. The botanical gardens also serve up scenic respites if you need to recharge.  Fun Spot America’s Ferris wheel and SkyCoaster both offer fantastic, if heart-thumping, perspectives. The SkyCoaster in particular gives you a bird’s-eye view of International Drive and the neon-drenched stretch of Orlando’s world-famous tourism strip. After dark, when the park lights flare up, the sight is pure magic.  How do I get there?  LEGOLAND® Florida sits about 45 minutes by car from Orlando’s theme park area. There’s no direct public transit from International Drive, but LEGOLAND® operates a dedicated shuttle from the I-Drive 360 / ICON Park area—reservations are a smart move as it fills fast.  Fun Spot America Orlando is right off International Drive, between Universal Orlando Resort and ICON Park. Lynx buses stop nearby, and it’s a short Uber or Lyft from major hotels. Its central location means you can combine your visit with other I-Drive or Universal attractions in the same day, no problem.  Best choice for families, couples or friends  Families with young kids lean toward LEGOLAND® Florida. With age-appropriate rides, interactive play zones, and gentle attractions, it’s especially welcoming for children aged 2-12. The themed hotels enhance the experience, letting little ones play right up until bedtime.  Friends and groups of mixed ages often gravitate to Fun Spot America. Its ride selection, go-karts, and arcade hit all the right notes for teens, adults, or anyone wanting a short, punchy burst of excitement. You can arrive late, catch the after-dark lights, and head out for a night in Orlando with ease.  Couples can enjoy either, but fun-loving duos will appreciate Fun Spot America’s cozy, slightly retro vibe for a spontaneous date night—especially if you’re the competitive type on a go-kart track!  I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain— which has more ‘hands-on’ activities?  LEGOLAND® delivers hands-on activities in spades. Kids build cars, race them, pilot boats, and tackle creative challenges daily. The LEGO® Creation Zones let your little engineers dig into bins of bricks, constructing wild contraptions (or following instructions—if that’s more your style). Character meet-and-greets, scavenger hunts, and live shows keep active minds engaged.  Fun Spot America leans into physical activity with go-kart races, bumper boats, and big, bouncy rides. The arcade—loaded with prize games—offers another way for kids to burn energy and win something cool.  What’s the accessibility like?  Both parks make accessibility a priority. LEGOLAND® Florida offers special ride passes for guests with disabilities, wheelchair rentals, and accessible pathways throughout the park. Detailed guides are available online and at guest services to help you plan your day.  Fun Spot America keeps things flexible, with step-free entrances on many rides and helpful staff to assist those with mobility questions. The relatively compact layout is especially friendly for those with strollers or mobility devices.  Best lunch spots nearby?  LEGOLAND® Florida  Granny’s Apple Fries (in the park)—legendary thick-cut fries dusted with cinnamon and sugar, served with a creamy dipping sauce. A must-try that’s unique to LEGOLAND® .  Bricks Family Restaurant (in the LEGOLAND® Hotel)—buffet-style, colorful decor, easygoing for groups, and even better for fussy eaters.  Harry's Old Place—just outside the park, classic Florida seafood spot with a lake view. Grab a Grouper Sandwich if you’re feeling adventurous. Casual, fun, and buzzing with locals.  Fun Spot America Orlando  Deli Fresh Cafe (in the park)—grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and picnic-style snacks, perfect for quick bites between rides.  Mrs. Potato—wallet-friendly Brazilian comfort food just a few blocks away; try the loaded “rosti” (a giant stuffed hash brown), a local favorite.  Cafe Tu Tu Tango—a few minutes up International Drive, vibrant boho décor, tapas plates, artists painting at your table, and a lively buzz. Be sure to try their famous sangria if you swing by for brunch.  For those craving variety, International Drive’s ICON Park complex packs tons of eateries and even a food hall—perfect for picky eaters and snackers.  Where are the best photo opportunities?  LEGOLAND® Florida offers photo gold everywhere you look. Miniland’s micro cities look especially vibrant in the morning or late afternoon — when the sun casts long shadows between LEGO® buildings. Don’t skip the dragon coaster for a mid-action snap, and be sure to pose by the signature entrance archway. Gardens, bridges, and lakeside benches are prime for family photos.  Fun Spot America brings neon and thrill to your Instagram grid. The Ferris wheel at sunset turns a simple selfie into a glowing backdrop, while the SkyCoaster’s harnessed descent creates pure action shots (smiles guaranteed). After sundown, the park’s illuminated rides make for endlessly colorful, lively pictures.  We’re finished and thirsty— is there a decent bar in the area?  Near LEGOLAND® Florida:  The Twisted Teapot: Quirky tea room by day, stylish cocktail hideout after hours, with craft gin drinks and cozy, mismatched furniture—a real winner in Winter Haven.  Old Man Frank’s: Laidback lakeside bar known for live music, crisp beers, and deck seating on the water. The perfect way to wind down after a day with the kids.  Near Fun Spot America Orlando:  Icebar Orlando: A chilled-out spot—literally—where everything (including your glass) is carved from ice. Their signature “Firebird” cocktail will warm you right back up.  Miller’s Ale House: Friendly neighborhood hangout just around the corner, with dozens of draft beers, crowd-pleasing menu, and specials all week.  For a fancier toast, The Hampton Social at ICON Park pours craft rosé cocktails and fresh-spun seafood towers—great for people-watching and a little indulgence.  We’re finished and thirsty— is there a decent bar in the area?  Near LEGOLAND® Florida:  The Twisted Teapot: Quirky tea room by day, stylish cocktail hideout after hours, with craft gin drinks and cozy, mismatched furniture—a real winner in Winter Haven.  Old Man Frank’s: Laidback lakeside bar known for live music, crisp beers, and deck seating on the water. The perfect way to wind down after a day with the kids.  Near Fun Spot America Orlando:  Icebar Orlando: A chilled-out spot—literally—where everything (including your glass) is carved from ice. Their signature “Firebird” cocktail will warm you right back up.  Miller’s Ale House: Friendly neighborhood hangout just around the corner, with dozens of draft beers, crowd-pleasing menu, and specials all week.  For a fancier toast, The Hampton Social at ICON Park pours craft rosé cocktails and fresh-spun seafood towers—great for people-watching and a little indulgence.  Summary  When it comes to fun in Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida and Fun Spot America both deliver adventure in completely different packages. LEGOLAND® is our pick for creative, gentle curiosity and multi-day wonder, while Fun Spot America nails nostalgic fairground thrills and flexible, come-and-go excitement. Whichever you choose, rest easy knowing you’re in for unforgettable experiences, unique to Orlando—and if you’re clever with your planning, you can even try both!  With Go City, you’ll make the most of your time and budget, exploring Tampa Bay, Orlando, and beyond for less, with one handy pass. Here’s to making your next Orlando vacation as vibrant and thrilling as you’ve been dreaming.    Like this? Why not check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or see LEGOLAND®  size up Disney World?  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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Orlando in January

Thinking about making a trip to Orlando this January? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the very best that the city has to offer. There are countless ways to enjoy wintertime in The City Beautiful. If the weather is warm enough, you’ll be able to able to visit all your favorite theme parks no bother. For those cooler days, the city’s cultural institutions are a total must-visit. And, for when you feel like you need to take a break, the area presents a lot of great laidback activities to try. Trust us when we say, you’ll never be bored exploring Orlando. So, without further ado, here are our favorite things to see and do in the area. We hope you like them and manage to try some of them out! Find Fun Activities Ever wanted to take a selfie with Brad Pitt? Or maybe strike a pose with Will Smith? Well, as it turns out, now you can! For pop-culture fanatics and lovers of the big screen, Madame Tussauds presents an exciting entertainment experience to remember for all. What began as a small project by famous wax worker Marie Tussaud in the 1800s is now a worldwide sensation right up to this very day, with locations in almost every major Western city – including Orlando. View over 50 life-like figures of some of the most famous faces in the world, ranging from actors and singers to political figures and superheroes. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a phone so you can snap some pictures for Instagram! If you’re looking for something a little different, look no further than the Museum of Illusions. Standing out amongst the other exciting experiences in the city, this place aims to boggle the mind - in the best possible way. Combining architecture, design, psychology and space, the institute presents its unique collection of mind-twisting, eye-tricking installations for a broad audience. With over 50 incredible exhibitions to be enjoyed, the fun never stops coming. Walking around the institution, you’ll find everything from kaleidoscopes and prisms to tilted and reverse rooms. Undeniably intriguing and fascinating, this place is a total crowd-pleaser, great for those of all ages. Aside from its interesting cultural institutions, Orlando presents many fantastic historical structures well worth checking out. Standing as a modest, one-story cottage among College Park’s residential streets, the Jack Kerouac House once served as a home to the famous Beat writer. Though he only lived here less than a year, Kerouac managed to write ‘’The Dharma Bums’’ in its entirety during this time. Today, this National Historic Landmark is now a residence for budding writers – but if you want to take a peek inside, just ask! Beautifully preserved and holding such high cultural relevance, we don’t recommend missing out on this one. Get Cultured Though Orlando is perhaps best known for its world-renowned theme parks, the city’s cultural institutions are more than worth checking out. Built in the first half of the twentieth century, the Wells' Built Museum of African American History once served as a hotel for black visitors to the area. Since then, the structure has been converted into an institution showcasing the storied history of African American culture in the city. Inside, you’ll find everything from artefacts and artwork to old documents and photos pertaining to Orlando’s black and civil rights history. Whether you’re a total history buff or just looking to learn a little more about the area, there’s no better place to be. Orlando presents a wealth of free museums covering a wide range of interesting topics – you just need to know where to look! An important educational tool, the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center works to paint a powerful and moving picture of the past. Through carefully curated exhibitions, educational programs, and personal stories, learn more about those who were affected during this period of time. Within the museum’s intriguing permanent holdings, you’ll find a diverse array of historic documents, photos and artworks which work to tell the story of one of history's most lamentable injustices. Impactful though sombre, we recommend this stop for anybody who takes a deep interest in European history. Learn Something New For those brisk January afternoons, why not head over inside at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex? The perfect experience for those with curious minds, this place works to break down the fascinating history of space travel and deliver it in a digestible way. Even those who aren’t scientifically-minded are sure to be blown away by what this institution has to offer; inside, you can touch a real moon rock, walk amongst NASA shuttles, and attend lectures held by veteran astronauts. Still, the star of the show here has got to be the shuttle launch simulator, which recreates a rocket's orbit into space for visitors. As fun as it is unique, this place should rank right at the top of the itinerary! Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of January is visit the Orlando Fire Museum. Built into a renovated 1926 firehouse, the institute seeks to demonstrate the fascinating history and cultural relevance of firefighting. The perfect stop for all history lovers, this place is an unmissable educational experience; amongst its unique holdings, you’ll find everything from painted leather buckets to early motorized apparatus. Still, the museum’s major showstopper has got to be its wonderful collection of vintage firetrucks, giving a sense of what firefighting was like in a different time. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in Orlando in January. When the weather cools down, this opens up more opportunities for exploration and adventure. Trust us, getting bored in Orlando is mission impossible, no matter the time of year. Whether you're interested in exploring the city’s most popular attractions, hitting up its fantastic museums, or heading over to the historical landmarks, this vibrant Southern metropolis has a little something for everybody. 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
WonderWorks
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Guide to WonderWorks Orlando

WonderWorks will turn your world upside-down! This indoor amusement park for the mind combines education and entertainment to create Orlando's best family attraction. With more than 100 hands-on exhibits that challenge the mind and spark the imagination, there's plenty to keep guests of all ages entertained all day long. It's not quite a museum, and it's not quite a theme park – it's something completely unique that you won't want to miss on your vacation in Orlando. How to get Wonderworks tickets We've got you covered. WonderWorks tickets are included with your All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, so you can choose as you go and save money as you do! Here are a few handy tips for your WonderWorks adventure: Wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothes. Closed-toe shoes are required to participate in the ropes course and several other exhibits, and skirts/dresses aren't permitted on the ropes course. Plan to spend three to four hours inside. There are over 100 interactive activities spread across three floors that you'll want to explore. Your pass lets you stay as long as you'd like. Make sure to bring your camera! You'll want to capture all of the exciting experiences inside, not to mention the eye-catching upside-down exterior. What is there to see and do at WonderWorks? Guests of all ages can explore the six Wonder Zones, each one diving into a different STEM topic: extreme weather, physical challenges, space discovery, light and sound, Wonder art and imagination. Between interactive exhibits, rides, games, photo spots, and much more WonderWorks has everything you need for a day of family fun. WonderWorks highlights Inversion Tunnel – with the ceiling under your feet and the ground above your head, you'll need to pass through the spinning Inversion Tunnel to realign yourself and start your adventure. Astronaut Training Challenge – hop into this 2-person gyroscope to experience the feeling of weightlessness and the rolls and tumbles that astronauts feel when they're conquering missions in space. Bubble Lab – if you're anywhere between the ages of one and 100, you'll love the WonderWorks Bubble Lab. Create bubbles the size of basketballs or even one big enough to fit inside! Glow-in-the-dark Ropes Course – WonderWorks takes family fun to new heights with an indoor ropes course! Scale a maximum of 36 feet while conquering over 20 different obstacles on this glow-in-the-dark experience. The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show – wrap up your day with a hilarious, family-friendly dinner show. This one-of-a-kind entertainment experience is filled with mind-blowing magic, non-stop laughter, engaging audience participation and unlimited pizza. The Outta Control Dinner show is included with your pass. Places to eat WonderWorks is home to Wonder Bytes, a delicious café with plenty of meal, snack and drink options. Those who elevate their visit with a reservation to The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show can enjoy unlimited hand-tossed pizza, salad, beer, wine, soda and dessert during the performance! Attractions near the upside-down house Right next door to WonderWorks, you'll find Pointe Orlando - filled with dining, shopping and show options. A short walk down the road is Icon Park, home to The Wheel, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the Museum of Illusions and many other great attractions. Thrill seekers will love iFLY, an indoor skydiving experience nearby. Want to enjoy the Florida sun? Shoot a few holes at Pirate's Cover Adventure Golf. WonderWorks is open 365 days a year from 9AM to 12AM. Just show your pass at the WonderWorks admission counter and you're in! This attraction has exhibits with flashing lights and motion which may not be suitable if you have heart problems, diabetes, vertigo, seizures or any other light/motion sensitivities. Height and weight restrictions may apply. Save with Go City Remember, Go City is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes WonderWorks tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. You'll make great savings on entry to top museums, tours and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions, all for one money-saving price.
Cara Merren

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