10+ Things to Do in Orlando with Teens

It's never easy planning a vacation for older children and teenagers, but we think even the grumpiest ones will love this itinerary. There are tons of outdoor and gator adventures, not to mention theme park fun.

UPDATED DECEMBER 2024
By Katie Sagal
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If you've got teenagers in tow, you'll know they can be, shall we say, a little bit picky about what they want to see and do. So, if you're in search of things to do in Orlando with teens that won’t make them roll their eyes, we've got so much in store for you and the family. These picks are bound to put a smile on everyone's face.

Check out our list of suggested teen-friendly attractions for ideas, including...

  • Gatorland
  • Kennedy Space Center
  • ICON Orlando (formerly Coca-Cola Orlando Eye)
  • WonderWorks
  • Ripley's Believe It or Not!
  • Congo River Adventure Golf tickets
  • The Cirque Magique Dinner Show
  • Fun Spot America
  • and more...

Save on admission to attractions teens will love

Many of these teen-friendly Orlando attractions are included on Go City® Orlando passes. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate.

Roam the great outdoors

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Even if your kid isn’t the hiking type, there’s something to be said for giving the Everglades a shot. This National Park is absolutely gorgeous and filled with an amazing variety of wildlife, from the iconic Florida alligators to exotic plant life. The photos you'll be able to take in the Everglades will be simply stunning.

Visit Gatorland for an extended chance to meet the famous gators (and even see some gator wrestling!), or hop aboard a fun airboat tour for a more comprehensive overview of the natural world in Central Florida. 

Getting In: Gatorland Orlando tickets and Boggy Creek Airboat Tour tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card.

Explore the world of outer space

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For those aspiring astronauts or engineers out there, there's no better place in the world than the Kennedy Space Center. It's the home of all things space exploration and is filled to the brim with exhibits, artifacts, equipment, and even veteran astronauts ready to answer your questions. Check out one of the many included IMAX films, tour real launch areas, and train in space flight simulators just like the astronauts do! Your space-loving teens will be enthralled. 

Getting In: Kennedy Space Center tickets are included on all Go City® Orlando passes.

View the city from above

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While some sightseeing options may seem dull to your teens, ICON Orlando is anything but. See the amazing vistas of Orlando from 400 feet in the air, suspended in state-of-the-art capsules with interactive narration. It’s the tallest observation wheel on the east coast! You’ll be able to see the Orlando skyline, the area’s many theme parks, and even Cape Canaveral. It’s also a superb photo opportunity and a good chance for them to perfect that ideal Instagram post. 

Getting In: ICON Orlando is separately ticketed.

Explore the I-Drive Corridor

WonderWorks

There are so many attractions packed into one amazing neighborhood that you could basically confine your entire trip to the International Drive Corridor and never miss a thing. If you're looking for zany fun and excitement with a little educational twist, WonderWorks is a good spot (probably best for younger teens).

For the older crowd, and those who love all things weird and wonderful, Ripley's Believe It or Not! is an excellent option. It's filled with exhibits and artifacts that will truly fascinate visitors.

SEA LIFE Aquarium

For the animal lovers in your family, SEA LIFE Aquarium is the ideal destination. With more than 5,000 amazing creatures to marvel at, you'll never tire of this experience. Movie fans, don't despair; you don't need to travel to Hollywood to meet your favorite celebrities! Head to the astonishing Madame Tussauds to see all the top stars, from movies and music to history and politics.

Check out our post for some fun International Drive attractions. 

Getting In: WonderWorks Orlando and SEA LIFE Aquarium tickets are included on all Go City® Orlando passes, while Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando is separately ticketed.

Feel like a little kid again

Congo Adventure Golf

Even teens understand the value of nostalgia. Let them feel like a little kid again with a good game of mini-golf. This time, though, it's got a more exciting spin on it that will keep your teens captivated. Congo River Adventure Golf is more than just a mini-golf course, it's a whole new way to play the game. Your competitive teens will also enjoy searching for lost artifacts throughout the course to win some prizes. Afterward, let them loose in the Congo River Arcade for some more fun! 

Getting In: Congo River Adventure Golf tickets are included on all Go City® Orlando passes.

Visit a classic amusement park

There’s just something so exciting about the first rush of the roller coaster, or the thrill of being spun around at high speeds. Fun Spot America is so much fun for the whole family.

With several different ride options to choose from, from go-karts to Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster, we’re sure you’ll find something to satisfy even the most skeptical teen. If nothing else, you can give them some time in the arcade and some good old-fashioned cotton candy. After all, what do teens love more than some friendly competition and a sugar rush? 

Getting In: Fun Spot America tickets are included on all Go City® Orlando passes.

Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise

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If you're willing to drive a bit outside of Orlando to the Tampa area, the Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise is a great option for adventure-loving teens. This exhilarating speedboat ride combines the fun of a jet boat with the sightseeing potential of a marine life cruise. Dolphins love to play in the wake generated by this amazing vessel, so you'll get to see these playful pals follow your boat as you zip around! 

Getting In: Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise is separately ticketed.

Save up to 50% on Orlando attractions  

Discover our full line-up of Orlando attractions from Kennedy Space Center to Fun Spot America.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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3 Days in Orlando for First Timers

South Florida is full of sunshine and entertainment. From animal attractions to water parks and fairgrounds, Orlando is a great getaway spot. Here are our top tips for first-time visitors.
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Orlando in April

One of the most exciting times in Orlando is spring when we start to see the city really open up. Offering all the same perks as the summertime, just without the unbearable heat, Orlando in April presents ample opportunity for adventure and exploration. Though the city is known for its famous theme parks, we assure you that this place isn’t a one-trick pony. Whether you’re a nature lover, an artsy type, or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. From Riding Spaceship Earth at Epcot and photo opportunities at Madame Tussauds to relaxing walks through Kraft Azalea Garden and Disney Wilderness Preserve, here is how to make the most of your time in the city. See the Sites It would be a sin to make a trip to Orlando without visiting any of its famous theme parks. Owned and run by The Walt Disney Company. Epcot is the perfect place to spend time with friends and family. Standing out for its unique chosen theme, this place is dubbed as the ‘’permanent world’s fair’’, for its particular focus on human achievement and innovation. The park is divided into four neighborhoods, each with its own theme: World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature and World Showcase. Within each area, you’ll find shows, activities, and entertainment. Unlike other big theme parks, there are more attractions than there are rides at this place – but that's what makes for a truly unique encounter! Thoroughly iconic and undoubtedly different, this place provides the ultimate entertainment experience for those of all ages. For pop-culture lovers and film enthusiasts, the next item on our list is an absolute must. To capture the real essence of Hollywood right in the center of Orlando, there’s no better place to be than Madame Tussauds. Offering 6 separate display sections of popular celebrities, the establishment provides a great interactive experience for all visitors. The figures are pretty spectacular close up, paying close attention to detail whilst also embodying the true spirit of each person depicted. A super fun and unique attraction, this one is not to be skipped out on! In a place like Orlando, sometimes it can seem like the city is saying thing one and one thing only: ‘’visit our theme parks!’’ Still, if you do your research, you’ll find that the area is just as multifaceted as any other. A great stop for all creative types, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum seeks to preserve, display and exhibit artworks ranging from antiquity right through to the contemporary. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an expansive collection of over 5, 000 objects, including prints, drawings, sculptures and more. Highlights include Andy Warhol’s photographs and polaroids, and works by Pablo Picasso and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Get into Nature Though Orlando is perhaps most famous for its outlandish theme parks, it’s also home to some lush green spaces - you just have to know where to look! A total must-do for nature lovers, Kraft Azalea Garden is the perfect place for taking a balmy springtime stroll or watching the sunset over Lake Maitland. Billed as Winter Park’s Secret Garden, the property has less of a perfectly manicured feel, and more of a wild and romantic vibe. Open all year round, this area has magnificent cypress trees, a beautiful fountain, and of course, azaleas. April is a great time to visit since you’ll be able to spot beautiful egrets, mockingbirds and woodpeckers around the park. If you’re a seasoned visitor to the Sunshine State, you might just know about its beautiful landscapes. Hidden amongst the suburban stretch of South Orlando, the Disney Wilderness Preserve provides the perfect retreat from the city. Covering over 3,500 acres of restored wetlands, this place is an environmentalist’s paradise just waiting to be discovered. Home to over 1,000 species of plants and animals, this area showcases the unique southern ecosystem in all its glory. Make time for a tranquil walk through the forests, take an off-road buggy tour to learn more about the area, or catch a movie under the stars - the choice is yours! Whatever you choose to do, there’s no doubt it’ll be great. Relax! When touring, one of the best ways to get to know the area is by visiting a local market. Take advantage of the beautiful springtime weather and l like a local at Winter Park Famers’ Market. Held every Saturday afternoon, this place is known for purveying a wide array of organic veggies, artisan cheeses, and locally sourced honey. Although you probably won’t be taking home any produce, there are a lot of food and art vendors to choose from. Dive into the crowds, soak up the atmosphere and grab some lunch! If you’re looking to take a break from all of the buzz, why not head to the mall? Since its opening in 2002, the Mall at Millenia has become an Orlando favorite for spending some quality family time and slipping in all of that much-needed retail therapy. Located just south of downtown, the mall has over 150 stores to choose from, ranging from high-end luxury and in-demand brands to high-street stores. Whether you’re looking to browse, pick up some souvenirs for your loved ones back home, or just sit back and relax, this place has all you need for a bit of downtime. Set along the eastern coastline, Orlando is not a place to hole up indoors. The area caters to all types of travellers, and there are plenty of opportunities to discover something new. Orlando’s theme parks are a must – whether you love rollercoasters, waterparks, or animals, there's a little something for everybody here. If you're an outdoorsy type, then the area has many parks and preserves to be explored. For those looking for something a little more relaxing, there are a lot of cultural amenities and markets to check out. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to find something for you in the Sunshine State! Explore the city to its fullest with 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
Blog

Orlando in June

June is one of the best times to visit Orlando. Contrary to popular belief, the city has far more to offer beyond its famous theme parks. From world-class entertainment experiences to great outdoor activities and shopping opportunities, the subtropical capital of the Southeast packs quite the punch! Within its broad city limits, you can visit Universal Studios, catch some unique shows, and enjoy the natural habitat firsthand. Still, if you’re coming for the rides, you definitely won’t leave disappointed! Thankfully, we’ve done the research for you – now all you need to do is check off the list! So, grab a notepad and get ready to jot some things down. See the Classics A trip to Orlando isn’t quite complete without a visit to Universal Studios. A total fan favorite, there’s no place that quite compares. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place is one of the most popular resorts in the entire world – and with good reason! Offering a world-class entertainment district, two theme parks and a waterpark, too, there’s a lot to see and do here for every type of traveller. Additionally, you can stay on-site in one of the resort’s many hotels – still, we think that you could stay for weeks here and never experience all of it! With so much ground to cover, this place provides an exciting entertainment experience to remember. Another one of our favorite theme parks in Orlando has got to be LegoLand for all of its liveliness and whimsy. Perfect for those travelling with family, this place offers an exciting experience to all of its visitors. An epicenter of pure unadulterated merriment, this place packs so much into its boundaries. From rides and shows to shopping and dining, you’ll never be bored here – rather, you might find it hard to fit all of it in! Still, one of our favorite attractions completely unique to this spot are the spectacular Lego models dotted around the site. Always barrels of fun, this place is great for those of all ages. Take a Day Trip Looking for a great way to beat the heat? Well, look no further! Voted the USA’s best water park, Aquatica is the perfect place to spend a hot summer’s day. Thrill rides like Ihu’s Breakaway Falls are sure enough to test anybody’s bravery. Meanwhile, rides like Taumata Racer and Walhalla Wave are perfect for younger guests. Still, our resounding favorite has got to be the Dolphin Plunge, which literally sends you zooming through a pool of the ocean’s friendliest creatures en route. With great rides, natural sand beaches, and marine life, this place provides an exciting entertainment experience to remember. If you’re a seasoned visitor to Orlando, you’ll be well aware that weather can get pretty steamy. Thankfully, the city has plenty of options for those who aren’t big fans of the heat. Open and running since 1955, Orlando Science Center has long been serving the community as a center of intellectual thought and understanding. Combining fun with learning, the institute breaks down complicated ideas and presents them in interesting and understandable ways for its visitors. There are hands-on exhibits, 3D films, and engaging educational programming, making it a great place for curious minds. We love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new! Try Something New If you’re looking to spend some quiet time in nature, you won’t need to travel far. Known for its warmer climate and beautiful greenery, Orlando has many parks and preserves that are perfect for a lazy summertime stroll. Open to the public 365 days a year, Harry P. Leu Gardens is the perfect place to soak up the natural beauty of Florida. Covering over 50 acres of landscaped gardens and lakes, this place is a nature lover’s paradise. With meandering walking trails, a tropical rainforest, and a tranquil butterfly garden, this place pretty much has it all! Whilst you’re there, we also strongly suggest checking out the Leu House Museum. Once serving as a home to Mr and Mrs Harry P. Leu, this meticulously restored historic structure is now open to visitors. Just remember to wear your comfiest walking shoes and take plenty of sunscreen with you! For a destination known primarily for its rollercoasters, the best things to do in Orlando may just surprise you. The city’s coastal seat and all-around beautiful weather make it a great destination for wildlife theme parks. Recognized as the ‘’Alligator Capital of the World’’, Gatorland is home to a whopping 2, 000 alligators! A little crazy and a whole lot of fun, this place offers an interactive experience where you can get up close with your favorite reptiles in a safe way. But that’s not all! The park is also home to crocodiles, flamingos, snakes, flamingos, emus and more. In addition, there are swamp walks, vehicle tours, and even ziplines to be enjoyed. If there’s a better way to discover the true meaning of Florida, we sure haven’t heard of it! When it comes to the bizarre and outlandish, Orlando pretty much holds the title. Those coming to the city for art and culture might not be completely taken. Still, anybody with a sense of humor and appreciation for the downright ridiculous will be more than happy with the city’s unique offerings. Standing out as Orlando’s longest-running dinner show, the Outta Control Magic Show has everything you could possibly ask for when it comes to family entertainment. No, really: we mean it. This quirky interactive show features magic, mind-reading and improv – yes, maybe that sounds like a lot, but it totally works, trust us. If you’re wondering about the dinner package (why wouldn’t you?) it’s unlimited hand-tossed pizza and beer, wine, and dessert. Sound good? June in Orlando presents ample opportunity for adventure. The days are longer, the weather is warm, and the sky is a brilliant blue. It is also prime time to explore and enjoy all of the city’s fantastic activities and attractions. Whether you’re a rollercoaster fiend, a nature lover, or just looking to relax, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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