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.

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
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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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Things to do in Orlando for Birthdays

Though getting a year older can be a little daunting for some people, taking a vacation can sure soften the blow – and give us a reason to let loose and have a bit of fun! Thankfully, Orlando is the perfect place to celebrate, with exciting activities and attractions for those of all ages. For thrillseekers and dreamers alike, there’s no better place to be than the Magic Kingdom, of course. If you’re looking for something a little more out of the box, the Tree Trek Adventure Park provides a fantastic action-packed experience set against the backdrop of the wondrous local landscape. Or, if you just want to relax on your special day, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is the perfect respite from the city. No matter where your interests may lie, the city has so much to offer for every type of traveller. Hit the Theme Parks Though Orlando is packed with fantastic birthday attractions, one spot most certainly stands out above them all – yup, that’s right, it’s the Magic Kingdom! Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place is known as one of the world's leading theme parks – and it's easy to see why. Offering over 40 rides, shows, and shopping destinations, the park is a great stop for young families and big groups as it has a wide variety of things to choose from. Here you’ll find favorites like Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, amongst other world-famous attractions. An ultimate classic and eternal crowd-pleaser, this place is sure to bring that extra touch of magic to the party. Party planning can be a lot of effort; however, Orlando kind of does all the hard work for us. If you’re looking to bring your birthday year in with a splash, why not head over to Universal’s Volcano Bay? A constituent of the Universal Resort, this place is recognized as one of the top aquatic attractions in North America. For those looking to celebrate their birthday with a little bit of excitement and adventure, this place pretty much has it all. You’ll be able to find everything from edgy thrill rides and tube slides to rapid rides and wave pools, all in one place. Still, for those members of the group who prefer to play it safe, the park also has a beach area and cabanas to chill under. In addition, there are a number of dining options, making this spot perfect for large parties. Bringing the good clean fun to the party, there’s nobody who doesn’t enjoy a good water park! Have Fun Outdoors Travelling with kids can be a difficult feat, let alone when there’s a birthday coming up. If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, you might want to check out the next item on our list. Perfect for bold and energetic youngsters, the Tree Trek Adventure Park changes up the scenery by providing a memorable experience set against the natural pine forests of Kissimmee. This experience involves tackling a challenging aerial obstacle course to truly get the adrenaline pumping. With around 100 different games, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. Whiz through the trees on zip lines, test your balance on the suspended bridges and climb up 50-foot ladders. There are different courses catering to variant age groups and the experience is run by professional guides to ensure personal safety. For those who want to keep it a little more low-key, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Perfect for any occasion big or small, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is one of our favorite things to do in Orlando. Situated just a quick ride out from Disney World, the reserve covers over 12, 000 acres of swampland and lakes to be explored. A fantastic stop for nature lovers, the park features over 1,000 species of plants and animals all thriving together. This place is a fantastic choice since it provides a wide variety of fun on-site activities and excursions to be enjoyed. Beat the heat in one of the park’s pool areas, cruise some of the city’s most stunning lakes, or kick back with a movie under the stars. Whatever you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great! Have a Blast! If you’re having trouble picking an activity, why not go for something that everybody will enjoy? Located just north of the city, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers a fantastic way to view animals in a kind and respectful way. Standing out from other zoological gardens you may have come across, this place acquires its name from the native gardens on which it is built. As an effect, you can stroll through beautiful protected wetlands, view animals native to the area, and get friendly with some interesting reptiles. Still, this place isn’t all about its local creatures. In fact, you can view over 500 animals on the premises from over 205 species, including big cats, giraffes, and a wonderful Indian rhinoceros. Combining fun with learning, the institute works to teach its visitors about environmentalism and animal conservation. What could possibly be more wholesome? As far as classic things to do on your birthday go, museums don’t usually top the list. Though the thought of it can sound a little dull, we promise that this next suggestion is anything but. A sure-fire way to keep everybody entertained, the Museum of Illusions offers an interactive, immersive experience to keep you guessing. Inside, the institute has around 50 exciting exhibits which work to trick the eye and twist the mind. If you’re looking for a way to test your one-year-older brain, here it is. Just don’t forget to bring your camera! Everybody has different ideas for what makes the perfect birthday. Luckily, Orlando is the perfect destination for a spot of birthday bliss. Whether you’re looking to go classic with a trip to the Magic Kingdom, get nostalgic at the waterpark, or choose something a little more laid-back, the city has something for every type of traveller. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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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
couple having fun on a drive in orlando
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Take on Tuesday: Playful Plans for Your Orlando Getaway

Orlando on a Tuesday: Unmissable Adventures for Your Trip  So you’re spending a Tuesday in Orlando? Wise choice! This city doesn’t believe in “slow days.” Sure, the weekends get the most hype, but we think Tuesday is the sweet spot—crowds are lighter, restaurants and attractions still buzz with energy, and you’ll enjoy Orlando’s playful soul at your own perfect pace. Whether you’re in town chasing theme-park thrills, hanging with sea creatures, or seeking out surprising local faves, Tuesdays serve up an Orlando experience you’ll treasure.  Orlando packs its calendar all week long, and on Tuesdays you’ll find a cool mix of big-ticket adventures and homegrown fun. Want an up-close astronaut encounter? Longing for lakeside sunsets? Eager to try outrageous mini golf, check out modern art, or dance to live local bands? Let’s craft your ultimate Tuesday itinerary. Ready to get out there?  Our Tuesday must-dos in Orlando include:  Kennedy Space Center  Gatorland  The Orlando Eye  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Museum of Illusions  ICON Park  Lake Eola Park strolls and swan boat rides  Tasting delights at East End Market  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show  Gatorland: Wild Encounters and Pure Florida Charm  Orlando’s wildest residents star at Gatorland, the self-proclaimed “Alligator Capital of the World.” We know what you’re imagining: toothy snouts and snap-happy jaws—and yes, there’s plenty of that. But Gatorland on a Tuesday has another side: the staff is extra friendly, the shows feel tailor-made, and the animal antics are endlessly entertaining.  Stroll wooden boardwalks above winding swamps and spot hundreds of gators basking, swimming, or maybe eyeing your shoes. The gator jump show is legendary—watch in amazement as these heavy-hitters launch themselves for a snack. Don’t miss the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, soaring you right over the jawline action below—it’s equal parts thrill and bragging rights.  If you prefer your wildlife cute instead of colossal, visit the petting zoo or catch a glimpse of Gatorland’s rescued big cats and colorful birds. The park’s vibe is relaxed, and you can meander through cypress groves or get up close with baby ‘gators at the touch pool. Gatorland manages genuine Florida nostalgia—think vintage family vacations—but with adventure dialed up for today’s explorer.  The Orlando Eye: 360 Views (and Instagram Gold)  Why see Orlando at ground level when you can take it in from 400 feet up? The Orlando Eye, soaring above ICON Park, brings the city’s skyline alive—especially on a Tuesday evening when the lights of Orlando’s attractions and downtown shimmer in every direction.  The air-conditioned capsules are sleek and comfy, with music for atmosphere and digital displays pointing out landmarks from Disney to the Kennedy Space Center (on a clear day, your view stretches all the way to Cape Canaveral). The ride is smooth and slow, making it ideal for families, couples, and anyone who wants unbeatable photos—sunsets up here are next-level.  What we love most? The mood at ICON Park on Tuesdays feels special: fewer lines, more time to watch the city roll out below your feet, and cozy little bars and restaurants nearby for a post-ride toast. Plan your visit at sunset for that golden glow, or go after dark when the wheel itself lights up in programmable colors that dance across the Florida night.  SEA LIFE Aquarium: Dive into the Deep, Rain or Shine  Orlando’s weather can switch in a flash, but SEA LIFE Aquarium never fails to delight—especially on quieter Tuesdays. Imagine winding tunnels with sharks, rays, and guitarfish gliding right overhead; shimmering jellyfish pulsing in the dark; and rescued turtles floating serenely by. Kids will have their noses pressed to the glass, while grown-ups enjoy the peaceful underwater vibes.  SEA LIFE shines brightest with its interactive zones: touch pools let you meet sea stars and anemones. “Behind the Scenes” tours are offered throughout the week, but Tuesdays mean more one-on-one chats with aquarists—ask them about the aquarium’s conservation efforts, and you’ll leave inspired.  We love how this spot mixes education, wow-factor, and outright cuteness. Look out for themed talks at the huge “360 Ocean Tunnel”—if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a diver feeding the rays while waving at guests. Whether you’re a marine-life fanatic or just looking for a cool-out session, SEA LIFE hits the spot.  Museum of Illusions: Mind-Bending Fun for All Ages  Ready to break reality for an hour? Orlando’s Museum of Illusions, smack in the heart of ICON Park, takes you on a wild ride through upside-down rooms, holographic hallways, and tricksy optical installations where nothing is as it seems. You’ll giggle your way through anti-gravity tunnels, vanish (almost!) into vortex rooms, and pose for photos that will have friends back home scratching their heads.  The best part about a Tuesday visit? You’ll have all the time and space you need to experiment with each exhibit, ask the friendly guides for tips, and try those hands-on puzzles. It’s impossible to be bored here, and every room is a new “wait, what just happened?” moment. The Museum of Illusions is perfect for small groups and solo travelers alike, and we guarantee you’ll leave with at least half a dozen new screensaver-worthy snaps.  Lake Eola Park: Urban Nature and Swan Boats  Every city has its green heart, and in downtown Orlando, that’s Lake Eola Park. Tuesday mornings and afternoons are blissfully calm, with locals strolling the loop, runners breezing by, and swans (plus plenty of hungry ducks) claiming the water’s edge.  Rent a classic swan boat for a dreamy paddle across the lake—you’ll get up-close views of the fountain and the city skyline. If you’re more of a landlubber, the walking trail winds past flowerbeds, shaded picnic spots, and an amphitheater where you might catch a free rehearsal or pop-up show midweek.  Lake Eola is also home to surprise art installations and loads of photo ops. By lunch, the food trucks often park nearby—look for BBQ sandwiches or fresh empanadas. Grab a cold drink, snag a shady bench, and simply soak in this authentic slice of Orlando life.  East End Market: Local Flavor, Laid-Back Vibes  Just northeast of downtown, the East End Market gathers local makers, growers, and food wizards under one cozy roof. On a Tuesday, the market’s pace is mellow, and you can chat with bakers, baristas, and artists who define Orlando’s homegrown food scene.  Start with coffee from Lineage, where beans are roasted on site, and your cappuccino comes with seasonal latte art. Grab a flaky pastry from Olde Hearth Bread Co. or a Vietnamese bánh mì sandwich from Dochi—the mochi donuts here are pillow-soft and come in rotating, colorful flavors. Drop into the local florist to ogle Florida wildflowers or check the schedule for pop-up cooking demos (they happen throughout the week).  East End Market is as much a community space as a food destination. Browse handmade crafts, sample local honey, or simply people-watch from the outdoor patio. It’s a gentle, flavorful experience that reveals the real flavor of Orlando—no rollercoaster required.  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show: Laughs, Illusions, and Pizza  Dinner and a show is always a good idea, and on Tuesdays The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show makes it unforgettable. Hosted inside WonderWorks’ famous upside-down mansion on International Drive, this is part comedy, part magic, and all-around fun for every member of your crew.  Here’s what to expect: you grab a seat at long dining tables, order up endless pizza (the classic pepperoni is the local favorite!), popcorn, salad, and soft drinks while the host—part stand-up, part wizard—takes the stage. The magic tricks are fast, family-friendly, and peppered with audience participation. Don’t be surprised if you end up on stage yourself, helping with card tricks or escaping from a straight jacket.  What sets this show apart is how personalized it feels. On a Tuesday, the crowd is friendly, the pace is lively, and the cast feeds off the energy in the room. Whether you’re on a romantic date night, wrangling a pack of kids, or catching up with friends, The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show is pure happiness (with free refills).  Wrap-Up: Make Tuesday the Highlight of Your Orlando Week  There’s no such thing as a dull Tuesday in Orlando. Whether your vibe is astronaut awe, wild animal encounters, urban street art, or kicking back by the lake with local eats, this city delivers day-long energy and endless potential for adventure. Jump into the fun, beat the crowds, and discover a fresh side of Orlando you’ll want to revisit on every trip.    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or browse the city’s market scene.     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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