aerial-panoramic-view-downtown-orlando-florida

10+ Things to Do in Orlando with Teens

By Katie Sagal

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.

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

boat-tour-everglades-florida-usa-popular

Roam the great outdoors

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

rocket-garden-kennedy-space-center-florida

Explore the world of outer space

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

ferris-wheel-orlando

View the city from above

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

Explore the I-Drive Corridor

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

Feel like a little kid again

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

motorboat-racing-summertime-nautical-adventure

Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise

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

Continue reading

Blog

Adventurous Things to do in Orlando

There are so many interesting things to do in Orlando, it’s hard to know where to start. Forever exciting and full of life, the City Beautiful has much to offer for the adventurous explorer – you just need to know where to look! The city’s world-famous theme parks are an absolute must-visit for thrillseekers coming to the area. There are a lot of other entertainment opportunities at hand too, for those just looking to relax. If you want to get active, make sure to check out some of the area’s beautiful green spaces. So, if you’re planning to make the trip have a read through our guide of the best things to see and experience in the area. Have Fun Outdoors Calling all outdoorsy types! If you’re looking explore the natural beauty of Orlando, look no further than Disney Wilderness Preserve. Situated just south of the city, this spot provides the perfect way to view animals in their natural habitat in a kind and considerate way. Covering over 12, 000 acres of lakes and flatwoods, the reserve offers a fantastic respite from the city. This place is especially well-recognized for its diverse array of plants and wildlife, with over 1,000 species thriving on its premises. At the park, you can hike along the footpaths or take off-road buggy tours to learn more about the environment around you. In addition, the park offers a lot of exciting recreational activities, including swimming, movie nights, and campfire activities. No matter what you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great! For those looking to kick things up a notch, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Bringing the thrill of exercise into a beautiful outdoor space, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park provides a thoroughly unique entertainment experience for you and your loved ones. Built into the natural pine forests of Kissimmee, this invigorating aerial obstacle course works to test your balance, strength, and sense of adventure. Travel treetop to treetop on Tarzan ropes. Fly through the trees on daring ziplines. Challenge your friends with 50-foot-high climbing ladders. As exciting as it is unique, this one would make the perfect family day trip. Make a Splash If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then you just might enjoy the next item on our list. A fantastic fit for Orlando weather, Universal’s Volcano Bay is the perfect tropical-themed waterpark that wins our vote. Not exactly one for the faint-hearted, this place offers a broad variety of edgy and exhilarating rides to be enjoyed. Make a splash on the Taniwha Tubes. Test your limits through many twists and turns on the Krakatau Aqua Coaster. For the bravest of guests only, brave a 125-foot drop on the Ko'okiri Body Plunge. The waterpark also has a beach area, cabanas, and many great food options. With so much do and experience, Universal Bay makes for the ultimate action-packed family day out. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without a huge smile spread across your face. Seated along the southeastern coastline, the city can get pretty hot and sometimes humid throughout the year. Thankfully, the Orlando Watersports Complex provides a great way to take a break from the heat with a wide array of activities to keep you entertained. A great stop for sporty types and nature lovers alike, this place is recognized as one of the largest wakeboard parks within the United States. The park offers a whole host of exciting and challenging watersports, from waterskiing and kneeboarding to paddleboarding and boating. If you’re a beginner, there’s no need to panic – you’ll have experienced professionals to guide you along, as well as the right equipment to ensure personal safety. If you’re looking for a new to appreciate the great outdoors, this place has it down. Have a Blast! Of course, when visiting Orlando, you’re likely to be making a stop at some of its famous theme parks – it's practically a requirement, really. Still, with so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming to pick a spot – but that’s where we come in! A resounding favorite for millions of visitors to the Sunshine State, the Magic Kingdom is recognized for being one of the most popular theme parks in the world. A total classic for families and group travellers alike, this place pretty much has it all. With an impressive offering of over 40 attractions, rides, and shopping destinations, you’ll never be bored here; more likely, you’ll be hard-pressed to fit everything in! Favorites include Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Country Bear Jamboree. Staying true to its reputation, the park brings the magic of Disney to life for visitors of all ages. As one of the busiest cities in the United States, sometimes it can be difficult to fit in all that Orlando has to offer. Luckily, Bob’s Balloons offers visitors the opportunity to admire it all from way up high. Yup, you heard us. Take to the skies in a hot air balloon for an exciting one-of-a-kind experience. Float peacefully over the bustling streets and wondrous swamplands whilst spotting famous attractions as you go. Whilst you fly, learn more about the city from your pilot. A thoroughly exciting and unique experience, the hot air balloon provides a new perspective of the city. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture snapshots of yourself in the sky! Orlando is a city made for adventure. With a fantastic mix of urban and nature attractions, you’ll always find something to keep you busy. The city’s world-class amusement parks typically come to mind when people first think of the City Beautiful. Still, if you do your research, you’ll find that there’s a lot more to be discovered. If you’re looking to explore the wilderness, Orlando presents no shortage of unique activities set against the backdrop of its remarkable flatwoods and swamplands. For sports enthusiasts, there are countless training venues to be enjoyed. And for those who are looking for something a little different, the city goes all out with a broad range of one-of-a-kind experiences and day trips to be enjoyed. Wherever your interests may lie, 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
Blog

Orlando in September

Wondering what to do in Orlando? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! If you’ve never been to Florida, there's no better place to start! The entertainment capital of the South is packed with everything from world-famous theme parks and waterparks to fantastic shopping destinations and museums. The city is also home to many beautiful parks and wilderness reserves to be discovered. Come autumn time, the area has a lot of exciting activities and events, so be sure to check those out! So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best things to see and do in the area. Wherever your interests may lie, there’s sure to be something for you. Explore the Area In September, Orlando can get pretty hot, and well... humid. If you’re looking to get away from all of the heat, why not head over to the Orlando Museum of Art? Founded by a group of art enthusiasts in 1924, the institute works to bring seminal pieces to a broad audience. Upon entrance, visitors can view an impressive collection of over 2,400 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and more. These works span from the 18th to 20th century and come from a broad spectrum of acclaimed international artists. We recommend setting a good few hours aside for this one since there’s a lot to see here. Since Florida is known for its beautiful tropical weather, it only makes sense that the state is home to some of the best nature reserves just waiting to be explored. Part of Everglades National Park, the Disney Wilderness Preserve stands out for its entirely unique ecosystem. No, really – this habitat is the only one of its kind currently found on earth! A total nature lover’s haven, the park has over 1,000 species of plants and animals on-site. At the park, you can take scenic strolls or off-road buggy tours to learn more about the environment and the animals which thrive there. Just remember to wear your comfiest walking shoes! Find Fun Activities Looking for something a little different? Well, look no further than the Museum of Illusions! Breaking away from the typical museum experience, the institute offers a totally unique sensory experience where nothing is quite as it seems. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to explore over 50 immersive exhibits which play with motion, color, shape, and space to twist the mind. Fan favorites include kaleidoscopes and holograms and tilted and reverse rooms. Don't forget to bring your phone so you can capture some snapshots of the incredible exhibits! If you’re looking to get into the true Florida spirit, what better place to be than Repticon Kissimmee? Taking place in late September, this two-day reptile show is a total must for any animal lovers in the area. Held in over 50 cities and 20 states, the festival recognized as one of the biggest animal expos of its kind. At the event, you’ll be able to get up close with a wide array of exotic reptiles in a safe and considerate way. In addition, you can attend live seminars and demonstrations to learn more about the animals and the different habitats which they come from. As fun as it is engaging, the festival provides a totally one-of-a-kind experience to remember. Those who are travelling with family might be interested in the next item on our list. Spanning over 50 acres of gorgeous greenery, Harry P. Leu Gardens is an unmissable sight any time of the year. Standing out from other green spaces in the city, these tropical gardens showcase a wide array of exotic plants, thanks to founders Mr. And Mrs. Harry P. Leu, who scoured the world for unusual vegetation to bring back from their excursions. In early September, the park transforms into a magical forest with its Fairy Doors exhibition. At the event, you’re tasked to spot the beautiful wooden doors hidden around the park on some of the centuries-old trees. Bringing magic to life, this event would make the perfect family day trip. Relax! Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of September in Orlando is checking out the Lakeridge Wine and Cheese Festival. Now over 10 years old, the event celebrates local artisan vendors and outstanding winemakers on the beautiful grounds of their lush vineyard. Culinary offerings cover a wide variety of cuisines and can be meat and seafood-forward, though Lakeridge also offers many alternatives for those with special dietary requirements. Throughout the weekend, there are outdoor performances, activities, winery tours and wine tastings to be enjoyed. If the aim of the game is to spoil you, then the festival sure does its job. If you want to indulge your inner foodie, then Magical Dining might just be the festival for you! Running the whole way throughout the month, this event gives diners the opportunity to try out some local favorites at lowered prices. Living up to its name, the event offers delectable dishes across a wide array of cuisines from around the globe. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a quiet romantic date spot, or something a little more casual, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Explore the best that the city has to offer, with no holding back! Oh, and the best part? For every magical meal bought, $1, is donated to charity, so everyone benefits. Orlando is known as ‘’The City Beautiful’', and with good reason. Spend a day in the area, and it defies you not to fall in love with it. Fall is a fantastic time to visit since the crowds will have thinned out, whilst the weather will still be summery. The best things to do there run the gamut – it‘s just up to you to choose! Looking for great family day trips? Head the Museum of Illusions for the ultimate day of fun. Or, discover the city’s artsy side at the Orlando Museum of Art. If you’re an outdoorsy type, spend a day at the Disney Wilderness Preserve. Whatever your pleasure, the city provides a wide array of attractions, activities, and festivals to be enjoyed. 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
Best school trips in Orlando
Blog

Best Places for School Trips in Orlando

It's tricky to pick a school trip that will bring learning to life and make sure students are engaged and having fun all day. To take the stress out of planning, here's our guide to the best ones in Orlando and Tampa.
Katie Sagal

Have a 5% discount, on us!

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

Thick check Icon