Orlando 4th of July Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in July

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
La noria de observación The Wheel, en Icon Park, Orlando

With lots of fun, patriotic-themed activities and attractions, Orlando is a fun place to spend the 4th of July. From theme parks to fireworks, if you’re looking for Orlando 4th of July ideas, check these out! There are so many local activities and fun things do in Orlando in July, including...

  • LEGOLAND® Florida Red, White and Boom
  • I-Drive 360 Orlando
  • Independence Day at SeaWorld® Orlando
  • Fireworks at the Fountain
  • and more...

Save on Admission to Popular Attractions

Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Orlando pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Orlando attractions and activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Orlando attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special July and 4th of July weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Orlando pass.

LEGOLAND® Florida Red, White & Boom

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort celebrates the 4th of July in grand fashion -- with an amazing fireworks display, of course! This exhibition is one of their biggest fireworks displays all year. It's sure to delight the kids.

  • When: July 4
  • Where: LEGOLAND, 1 LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, Florida

Plus, LEGOLAND also hosts special events throughout the summer, along with extended summer hours on select dates. Check their website for details. Getting In: LEGOLAND Florida tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass.

Special Lighting on the ICON Orlando 360 (Orlando Eye)

orlando-eye

Combine the best views of the entire city with a patriotic lights display and you have one pretty cool 4th of July activity. This 4th of July, the ICON Orlando 360 Orlando Eye will light up in the classic red, white, and blue. Ride the observation wheel during the day to for the best views of the sprawling city below, and come back at night to see the lights. When: July 4 Where: ICON Orlando 360 Getting In: If you'd like to ride the Orlando Eye during other times, ICON Orlando tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass. This event is free.

Explore More of I-Drive Orlando

After a spin on the Orlando Eye, check out the rest of I-DRIVE, one of Orlando's top entertainment destination, for "360-degrees of fun." Attraction highlights include:

  • Madame Tussauds: Pose with life-like wax representations of your favorite celebritiess and explore local culture and history.
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium: Walk through the acrylic sea tunnel inside this new Orlando aquarium (don't forget to look up!).
  • Skeletons: Animals Unveiled!: Get closer-than-close to real bones, skeletons, structures, and more for an entertaining, educational experience.
  • Ripley's Believe It or Not!: From authentic shrunken heads, to bizarre natural occurrences, Ripley's in Orlando has one of the most fascinating collections of artifacts.
  • Congo River Adventure Golf: Get in some classic fun, and hit a round of adventure golf at Congo River.

Getting In: Each of these International-Drive attractions listed above are available on the Orlando Explorer Pass.

Kennedy Space Center

saturn-v-rocket-on-display

Get in the patriotic spirit and explore NASA's headquarters and all things space at the Kennedy Space Center. It’s the only place on Earth where you can tour launch areas, see giant rockets and train in spaceflight simulators. Guests can come face-to-face with a real astronaut every day of the year during a half-hour, interactive Q&A-oriented program. Check out the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, which tells the story of NASA’s 30-year Space Shuttle Program. You can even tour the historic spacecraft! Getting In: Kennedy Space Center tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass.

Independence Day at SeaWorld® Orlando

tropical-aquarium-seaworld-park-orlando-florida

SeaWorld offers plenty of summer fun during the entire season. But they have something special planned for the 4th of July. Fireworks will light up the entire sky alongside lasers and pyrotechnics. The combination to produces one of the most impressive lighting displays in the region! Music designed to highlight Independence Day vibes will accompany the fireworks.

  • When: July 4
  • Where: SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 SeaWorld Drive, Orlando, Florida

Getting In: Admission to SeaWorld Orlando is not included on the Go Orlando pass and tickets must be purchased separately.

Red, Hot, & Boom in Altamonte Springs

Each year, the city of Altamonte Springs, Florida puts on one of Orlando's biggest 4th of July Fireworks Shows. With food, games, live music, and some of today's hottest stars, there's no wonder this event is so popular. Performing artists are announced in early June, so stay tuned for more info.

  • When: July 3, 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm; fireworks at 9:30 pm.
  • Where: Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd, Altamonte Springs, Fl 32701

Getting In: Red, Hot, & Boom is free to attend.

Lakeridge Winery Summer Music Series

The Lakeridge Winery invites guests to come sip some wine and enjoy live, outdoor music by some of the area's most talented jazz musicians. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks, and food will be available for purchase along with complimentary winery tours and tastings. This summer music series runs each Saturday of July, but we've highlighted the one that falls closest to the 4th.

  • When: July 6, 2018
  • Where: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, 19239 U.S. 27 North, Clermont, Fl 34715

Getting In: It's free to attend the Lakeridge Winery Summer Music Series.

Fireworks at the Fountain

downtown-orlando-lake-eola-park

Orlando Mayor, Buddy Dyer, invites you to the Fireworks at the Fountain in Lake Eola Park. There will be live music and entertainment, activities for kids, and food and beverages available for purchase. Insider tip: Arrive early to get a good spot to view the fireworks.

  • When: July 4, 2018, beginning at 4:00 pm.
  • Where: Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street, Orlando, Fl 32801

Getting In: Fireworks at the Fountain is free to attend.

Remember Save on Admission

There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Orlando to help you plan your 4th of July weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Orlando pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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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
american flags on memorial day
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Celebrate Memorial Day in Orlando: Sunshine, Adventure & Smiles

Memorial Day signals the start of summer, that sweet stretch of long weekends, backyard barbecues, and laughter under the sun. And where better to kick off the season than Orlando? This city is a playground for all ages—full of rocket launches, thrilling rides, splash-tastic water parks, and surprising spots perfect for remembering the meaning of the holiday. Whether you’re after family-friendly attractions, outdoor escapes, or a classic Florida feast, you can pack your Memorial Day weekend with the good stuff—no planning headaches required. We’ve got your Orlando adventure covered, from sunrise to sunset (and well into the starlit evenings).  Our favorite ways to celebrate Memorial Day in Orlando include:  Kennedy Space Center  Gatorland  Island H2O Water Park  Fun Spot America  The Orlando Eye  Museum of Illusions  Clearwater Marine Aquarium  Daytona International Speedway track tour  Picnic at Lake Eola Park  Lakefront Fireworks & Memorial Events  Gatorland: A Wild Memorial Day Adventure  Looking for something unique to Florida? Gatorland delivers the kind of Old Florida fun that’ll have you snapping pics at every turn. Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” this quirky, family-run spot combines animal adventure with classic roadside charm.  At Gatorland, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with alligators great and small—even rare white gators if you’re lucky. Watch pro wranglers feed supersized monsters in the Gator Jumparoo show, then giggle at the antics on the Gator Wrestling stage (don’t worry, it’s all in good fun). The petting zoo and aviary add extra family appeal, and the splash park helps everyone cool down on hot afternoons.  If you’re the adventurous type, try the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line—whooshing over a pit full of gators is an Orlando rite of passage. The boardwalk nature trails take you through cypress groves and let you spot herons, otters, and turtles. On Memorial Day weekend, Gatorland often hosts live bands and flag-raising ceremonies, offering a unique blend of local tradition and respectful remembrance.  The vibe at Gatorland is pure Florida: laid-back, friendly, a little bit cheeky, and totally unforgettable. Bring your camera—and your appetite for adventure.  Island H2O Water Park: Your Splashy Summer Kickoff  Orlando in late May brings plenty of sunshine—luckily, there’s Island H2O Water Park to keep everyone cool. This isn’t just another lazy-river-and-wave-pool spot; Island H2O delivers wild slides, interactive zones, and a playful digital twist that lets you personalize your water rides. You’ll love the park’s mix of heart-pounding slides (think drop loops and racing tubes) and chill-out spots like the adults-only pool and private cabanas.  Friendly vibes and thumping summertime tunes set the mood, making this place a party for all ages. Families gravitate toward the kid-friendly splash zones, teens race down the multi-lane slides, and everyone ends up drifting around the Live! Lagoon. A bonus: at several rides, you can choose your own music playlists and light schemes for a truly custom experience—great for making memories (and fun videos).  For Memorial Day weekend, the park often amps up with DJs, foam parties, and delicious cookouts, like BBQ brisket sandwiches and specialty drinks served poolside. There’s plenty of shade and staff are all about fun and safety, so you can just focus on floating, splashing, and soaking up that sweet start-of-summer vibe.  Fun Spot America: Classic Americana, Orlando Style  Want a jolt of nostalgia with your thrill rides? Fun Spot America brings the amusement park magic without the overwhelming crowds—think bright lights, festive tunes, and good old-fashioned fun. The wooden roller coaster here, White Lightning, rattles and roars just the way you remember from childhood, and there’s also a steel coaster for modern twist-lovers. Go-karts remain the star of the show, offering multiple tracks so everyone (yes, even grandma) can get in on the racing action.  Midway games, classic carnival snacks (deep-fried Oreos, anyone?), and a sprawling arcade deliver the all-American amusement park vibe. Plus, entry to the park is free—you only pay for the rides you want—making this a flexible and budget-friendly add to your Memorial Day plans.  On holiday weekends, Fun Spot America hosts live music, patriotic displays, and even the odd fireworks show. The atmosphere is always buzzing but never stressful, and you’ll spot both tourists and Orlando locals mixing it up well into the evening. It’s the ultimate spot for families wanting laid-back fun, teens craving adventure, or anyone up for a bit of old-school Americana beneath the Florida sun.  Museum of Illusions: Mind-Bending Family Fun  Looking for an indoor break from the Florida sun—but still want excitement? Museum of Illusions in Orlando is anything but ordinary. Here, you’ll wander through rooms that defy gravity, snap photos that trick the eye, and giggle your way through wild interactive exhibits. You haven’t truly seen Grandma until she’s “shrunk” inside the Ames Room or your entire group appears to float upside down!  What makes it special for Memorial Day? It’s a place that gets families laughing—and keeps both big kids and grownups guessing. The staff encourages you to take loads of photos, so your Instagram will be the envy of everyone back home. The design is smart and modern, with friendly guides helping you get that perfect surreal shot.  Just outside, the streets of ICON Park beckon—so you can combine a morning of quirky fun with a leisurely lunch or an ice cream under the shade trees. If your Memorial Day weekend brings unexpected weather or you just want to cool off with a dose of brain-teasing entertainment, Museum of Illusions offers a truly memorable twist.  Clearwater Marine Aquarium: See the Healing Power of the Sea  If you fancy a day trip, Clearwater Marine Aquarium—about a 90-minute scenic drive from Orlando—offers a unique Memorial Day experience blending inspiring animal encounters, conservation, and sunshine. Unlike the bustling theme parks, this working hospital for sea turtles, dolphins, and otters has a real sense of purpose. You’ll meet famous rescued residents like Winter the dolphin (star of Dolphin Tale), learn about wildlife rehabilitation, and watch trainers care for creatures big and small.  There’s a hands-on Discovery Zone for kids where they can touch stingrays and see sea turtles recovering, plus behind-the-scenes tours if you’re curious about marine medicine and rescue. The glass-walled pools overlook the bay, so the atmosphere is tranquil and uplifting—a great spot for families looking to honor Memorial Day in a way that connects you to the natural world.  Before heading back to Orlando, grab lunch at the on-site café or try casual seafood classics like grouper sandwiches and hush puppies at the nearby marina—views are, of course, endless blue water and bobbing sailboats. For animal lovers or anyone wanting to see real-life heroes in action, Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers a touching twist on your holiday weekend.  Daytona International Speedway Track Tour: Start Your Engines  Car fans, speed demons, and anyone craving something out of the ordinary—you can’t miss Daytona International Speedway. Less than an hour from Orlando, this legendary track is synonymous with American motorsports. On Memorial Day weekend, things rev up: take a tour of the racetrack, explore the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and snap photos at Victory Lane.  The tours here are behind the scenes and totally interactive. Sit in the driver’s seat of real NASCAR vehicles, peek into the pit areas, and soak up stories of racing legends who’ve made history on these turns. Guides bring every corner of this sprawling complex to life, sharing both triumphs and tales of bravery.  Outside, the energy is all about high-octane fun. Pit stop at SR Perrott’s Taproom nearby for a quick drink, or swing by local BBQ joints famed for their smoked brisket sandwiches and tangy sides. Memorial Day tributes abound—expect American flags, special displays, and perhaps a pop-up show and shine. For adrenaline junkies, history buffs, or anyone wanting a taste of all-American horsepower, Daytona delivers.  Picnic and Paddle at Lake Eola Park  For a slower, more scenic celebration, locals love Lake Eola Park—a green oasis right in downtown Orlando. The park’s central lake is ringed by an easy-to-walk path, shaded by ancient oaks and dotted with art sculptures and friendly swans. On Memorial Day weekend, the lawn fills with families and friends laying out blanket picnics—think deli sandwiches, fresh fruit, and baked treats from one of Orlando’s great downtown bakeries (Sugardough Bakehouse is a winner for pastries).  Feeling active? Rent a swan boat to pedal around the lake or take a yoga class in the open air. If you’re lucky, you might catch a concert at the floating amphitheater or stumble on a local craft market. The vibe is laid-back and festive—whether you’re chasing after kids, reading beneath a palm, or clinking cold drinks with friends.  Lake Eola is also the site of Orlando’s community Memorial Day commemorations, including flag-raising ceremonies and moving tributes to fallen heroes. It’s a beautiful reminder of the meaning behind the holiday, set in a spot that glows with natural beauty and local spirit.  Lakefront Fireworks & Memorial Events  No Memorial Day is really complete without a stunning fireworks finish, and Orlando never disappoints. Check out local event listings for lakefront shows—Lake Eola and nearby Clermont’s Waterfront Park both offer choreographed fireworks that light up the sky, alongside food trucks, live music, and festive activities for all ages. Kids wave sparklers, grownups lounge on blankets, and everyone looks skyward as the night fills with color.  During the day, many parks and neighborhoods host parades, vet tributes, and open-air concerts—think country music, classic rock, and patriotic sing-alongs, all under the Florida stars. These events feel like a true community celebration, with a distinctly welcoming, inclusive vibe.  Want to level up your picnic game? Order takeout from local favorites like Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa (love their brisket and fried yuca) or Se7en Bites (stock up on mini pies). With food, friends, and a fireworks finale, you’ve got the perfect Orlando Memorial Day memory.    Whether you dream of rocket launches, water park thrills, or a classic family picnic beneath swaying palms, Orlando brings endless ways to make your Memorial Day shine. Explore heroes of land, sea, and the stars, or simply relax in the sweet Florida warmth. With adventure, heartfelt tributes, and that sense of community togetherness, Memorial Day in Orlando isn’t just a long weekend—it’s the best way to jumpstart your summer, Florida style.    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, and our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando,   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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