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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Downtown Florida
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Getting Around Orlando - How to Get Around Orlando for Tourists

Planning to spend some time exploring Orlando? We put together a go-to guide packed with information for getting around the city and beyond. Renting a car is recommended as it’s the most convenient option for getting around Orlando. Alternative options include public transportation, taxis, and hotel shuttle services. Many hotels located near I-Drive and other popular attractions offer free or inexpensive shuttles to attractions as well. What about if you're planning to visit lots of Orlando attractions? Be sure to check out the pass for Orlando by Go City® – the more you do, the more you save. By Car (Recommended) The easiest and most convenient way to get around Orlando is by car, as many of the city’s top attractions are spread out and require multiple transfers on public transportation. If you plan on driving, be sure to keep some cash on hand for tolls and consider investing in a good map (free area maps provided by attractions are not the most reliable). Or, bring a GPS with you and ensure you have downloaded relevant online maps on your phone. If you have access to a SunPass, EZ-Pass, I-Pass, or anything like that, we also recommend bringing it along for this trip. Tolls can be expensive and many areas have shifted to electronic-only tolling. By I-Ride Trolley in the International Drive Area If you plan to stay in the International Drive (also called I-Drive) area, consider purchasing a pass for the I-Ride Trolley which services lots of attractions in the area including SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and more. Single rides are available but require exact change. I-Ride Trolley stops include 6 theme parks, more than 200 restaurants, more than 485 shops and premium outlets, over 30,000 hotel rooms, and more. Visit iridetrolley.com for more information. By bus LYNX, Orlando’s comprehensive bus system can get visitors to most areas in Orlando and beyond, but it can be a hassle when it comes to trip planning and bus schedules. Their bus stops are marked with a pink bus or paw print sign and run every 15, 30, or 60 minutes depending on the route. Check their site for schedules and route maps. LYMMO, Orlando’s free downtown circulator bus service offers service throughout the immediate downtown Orlando area. Check their site for schedules and route maps. Keep in mind that most public transit services stop operating around midnight or earlier. By taxi or ride-share Taxis are typically available at major attractions and most hotels. However, most visitors find that renting a car is less expensive than relying on taxis. You might also opt to use a ride-share service like Lyft or Uber if you're only trying to get between a few places (or if you're going out for the evening and don't want to drive). Keep in mind that you'll need to download the app of your chosen service in advance. 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.
Casey Makovich
Blog

Christmas in Orlando

You might think of Orlando as the place to be during the warmer months, but trust us when we say that you won’t want to miss out on Christmastime in the city. We’re talking exciting seasonal experiences, spectacular light displays, and awesome winter villages. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned visitor, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. If you’re travelling with family, be sure to check out the special events held at some of the city’s most famous theme parks. For something a little more traditional, head over to the annual Winter Park Christmas Parade. Or, if you want something a little more low-key, the lights at Harry P. Leu Gardens are well worth the visit. And, if you're still struggling to come up with ideas for what to do during the most magical time of the year – don't worry! We’ve compiled a list of our favorite things to see and do during the holiday season. Hit the Classics A trip to Orlando just wouldn’t be complete without making a stop at Magic Kingdom – and what better time to visit than the holidays? A total American classic, the park is often dubbed the happiest place on earth – and it’s easy to see why. Favorite mainstays include It’s a Small World, Space Mountain, and of course, the iconic Cinderella Castle. Magic Kingdom not only impresses throughout the year with an abundance of famous rides and attractions to be enjoyed – it also happens to offer special events around Christmastime. When visiting during the month of December, be sure to check out the seasonal parades, firework displays, and magical ‘’snowfalls’’, transforming the park into an enchanting winter wonderland. Thoroughly whimsical and joyful to boot, this one should rank at the very top of everyone’s itinerary! With the cooler weather and smaller crowds during the holiday season, it’s a great time to check out some of Orlando's world-class adventure parks. Standing out as a unique celebration of human achievement, Epcot is a go-to for many first-time visitors to the city. Spanning over 300 acres and encompassing over four different ‘’neighborhoods’’, each with their own theme, there’s a lot to see and do here for every type of traveller. During the festive season, the park brings the wow factor with its International Festival of Holidays – a fantastic celebration showcasing various traditions from cultures across the globe. We love this idea because it’s interesting and presents a little something for everybody. Don’t miss it! Find Fun Activities Located along the tropical Southeastern coastline, Orlando is home to many wonderful green spaces just waiting to be explored. Established way back in the 1800s, Harry P. Leu Gardens is a beautiful site to visit any time of the year. In the early days of the park’s development, the Leus travelled all over the world, bringing back a wide variety of exotic greenery to fill their gardens. Today, the plot is open to the public all year round, with special events being held for certain holidays. For the ultimate Christmastime experience, be sure to check out the Dazzling Nights display, running all throughout the month of December. With beautiful lighting installations, music, and food, this stop is sure to put a smile on your face. Always well worth the visit, Legoland is forever brimming with fantastic things to delight the whole family. Named after the popular toy brick company, this place ranks way up there with Magic Kingdom as one of our all-time favorites. Living up to its slogan ‘’Built for Kids’’, the park offers around 30 child-friendly rides and attractions for ages 2-12 – but that’s no reason that we shouldn’t get involved! Christmas is an especially great time to visit, since you’ll get to enjoy all of the regular attractions, but with a little added holiday cheer. During the month of December, the park goes all out, with special light shows, pantomimes, and of course, a Lego tree and Santa Claus. Well, what else would we expect? Soak Up the Atmosphere If you’re looking for spectacular light displays, look no further than the Night of a Million Lights. Billed as the ‘’Number One Thing to Do In December In Orlando’’, this fantastical winter wonderland is bursting with holiday spirit. Despite its name, the event runs for 52 nights, and with over 3 million lights donated by local theme parks, it’s quite a show. Still, the outdoor exhibitions aren’t the only thing to see here. Enjoy festive snacks as you walk. Take a train ride through the village. Browse the stalls at the Christmas market. Situated at the Give Kids The World Village, this traditional boardwalk is much more than just a great seasonal stop; buying a ticket will go towards helping families in need. Incredibly charming and atmospheric, there’s no place that captures the spirit of Christmas quite like this one in the city. For those looking for a traditional way to celebrate the holidays on vacation, head over to the annual Winter Park Christmas Parade. Standing as the oldest continuous holiday celebration in Central Florida, this flamboyant event is a total must-see if you’re the type to get uber-excited around December 25th (we know we are!) A longstanding favorite for locals and visitors alike, the parade offers a quintessential seasonal entertainment experience quite like no other. With over 80 participating organizations, you’ll be able to enjoy marching bands, animated displays, and of course, Santa Claus! Incredibly wholesome and full of life, we don’t recommend skipping out on this one. Just be sure to arrive early so you can catch a great view! There are a lot of ways to get into the holiday spirit in Orlando. From dazzling light displays to exciting events, you’ll find that there are countless ways to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year in the city. Trust us when we say, you most certainly run out of things to do here during the festive season. 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
friends enjoying a night out
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Thursday Thrills: The Ultimate Orlando Day Out

You’ve landed in Orlando, the playground of Florida, but it’s not just the weekends that pack a punch here. Thursdays in Orlando sparkle with possibility—fewer crowds, cool events, and a city that never sleeps on the fun. Whether you’re seeking theme park thrills, eye-popping museums, family-friendly wildlife, or just the perfect meal to feast on, we’ve scouted the best ways to make your Thursday unforgettable. From world-class attractions to quirky surprises and delicious pit stops, let us show you how to make every Thursday in Orlando a day to remember.  Here’s our cheat sheet to an amazing Thursday in Orlando:  Kennedy Space Center  The Orlando Eye  SEA LIFE Aquarium  WonderWorks  Gatorland  Island H2O Water Park  Madame Tussauds Orlando  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show  Disney Springs nightlife and foodie finds  Kennedy Space Center: Launch your Thursday into Orbit  Fuel up your curiosity and begin your Thursday at the Kennedy Space Center, where the wonders of human exploration blast off—literally. You’ll stand beneath Saturn V rockets, gaze at real Space Shuttles, and maybe catch an astronaut talk that gives goosebumps in all the best ways. The Center’s sprawling campus lets you experience riveting stories of space discovery, from the Space Race to today’s Mars missions.  What makes a Thursday special here? The crowds are a little lighter, making for a more personalized visit. Get up close with the Atlantis Shuttle, walk beneath genuine moon rockets, and interact with countless hands-on exhibits. Younger visitors will love the immersive astronaut training simulators—where you can “float” in space or try your hand at docking the International Space Station.  If you’re feeling peckish, try the Moon Rock Café for classic American bites and a stellar view of the Rocket Garden—best paired with a locally-brewed “Space Dust” IPA if you’re over 21. Don’t miss the IMAX theater for a larger-than-life blast-off, or the bus tour to Saturn V Center, which will have you marking your calendar for the next real launch. It’s educational, it’s jaw-dropping, and it sets the tone for an adventurous Thursday in Orlando.  The Orlando Eye: Take in the City from New Heights  Nothing says “you’re in Orlando now” like a slow ride on The Orlando Eye, officially known as The Wheel at ICON Park. Soar 400 feet above the city and the entire I-Drive entertainment district comes into view. In one gentle revolution (about 20 minutes), you’ll spot theme parks, lakes, and on clear days, even the launch pads at Kennedy.  Thursdays are prime for visits—smaller crowds mean less waiting and more time to soak up those panoramic vistas in a climate-controlled capsule. The ride feels peaceful, with bubbles of excitement as you reach the top and see the Orlando sprawl stretch toward the horizon. For a treat, time your ride for sunset for dazzling golden skies, or go after dark and watch the city light up.  If you’re celebrating a special Thursday, look into the Sky Bar cabins serving up champagne or craft cocktails for a mid-air toast. Afterwards, take a stroll through ICON Park—neon-lit, buzzy, and full of fun places to grab a bite, from casual BBQ to upscale seafood. Don’t forget to snap that perfect selfie with the Eye behind you; it’s one of the city’s best backdrops!  WonderWorks: Mind-Bending Fun for All Ages  WonderWorks flips your Thursday upside-down—quite literally, thanks to the dazzling upside-down façade that greets you curbside. Part science museum, part playground, this attraction is a paradise for the eternally curious. Step inside and enter a world where imagination reigns: hurricane simulators, rope courses, lie detector tests, and laser tag await.  With fewer school groups on Thursdays, you can bounce from zone to zone with ease, challenging friends to the Mind Ball game or braving the Earthquake Café (we dare you to try the 5.3 Richter scale simulation with your coffee in hand!). The hands-on exhibits encourage everyone to play, learn, and laugh, making it the ultimate stop for energetic families or those young at heart.  Special mention goes to the Wonder Coaster ride (you build your own roller coaster and then “ride” it in VR!) and the Bubble Lab, where you can literally encase yourself in a giant bubble—your Insta followers will thank you. If you’re traveling with tweens or teens, this is the place to let them run wild before moving on to the next Orlando thrill.  Gatorland: Wild Encounters, Pure Florida Vibes  Nothing says “Orlando adventure” like meeting its most famous local residents—the gators! Gatorland is all about swampy fun, with thousands of alligators and crocodiles living their best lives across lush outdoor marshes and boardwalks. You’ll catch everything from fierce feeding demonstrations to gentle petting zoo encounters all under the supervision of expert trainers.  Thursdays are especially rewarding here—you’ll dodge the weekend crowds and get closer access to those “up close” experiences. Brave souls can sign up for Gatorland’s zipline, soaring above the gator ponds for a pulse-racing thrill (there’s even a wheelchair-friendly zipline for all to enjoy). The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line gives you heart-pounding goosebumps and a bird’s-eye view of the scaly action below.  Feeling less daring? Take it easy and wander the scenic swamp boardwalks or catch the Gator Jumparoo Show, where alligators leap for their lunch to the amazed cheers of the crowd. Kids can cool off at the fun splash pad, and the train ride offers a laid-back loop of the park for weary legs. Before you leave, try the onsite eatery’s fried gator bites—a quirky, only-in-Florida snack that, we promise, is tastier than it sounds!  Island H2O Water Park: Slide Your Way into Thursday  When the Florida sun starts blazing, nothing beats making a splash at Island H2O Water Park. This tech-savvy water park offers more than 20 unique rides, wave pools, and splash zones—plus an interactive app that lets you choose music, launch light shows, and snap digital memories while zipping down slides.  Come Thursday, the atmosphere is vibrant but mellow, making it blissfully easy to snag the best cabanas or race your mates down the “Hashtag Heights” slide without the long waits. Kids love the kid-friendly splash lagoons and lazy river, while thrill-seekers go straight for the multi-story drop slides and the Live Streaming Zone, which lets you broadcast your water-fueled exploits with friends back home.  Island H2O goes above and beyond with their immersive experience—there’s live DJ music, and with app-based wristbands, you even control what’s playing while you float. With plenty of food trucks on-site (tacos, burgers, ice cream—you get the vibe), you’re set for hours of watery fun. Don’t forget flip-flops and sunscreen!  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Strike a Pose  Get ready to rub shoulders with the rich and famous—well, sort of! Madame Tussauds Orlando offers a who’s-who of wax figures so lifelike, you’ll do a double-take. Snap a selfie with Taylor Swift, shoot hoops beside Shaquille O’Neal, chill with Morgan Freeman, or head to a space-themed area for your Buzz Aldrin shot.  The vibe is pure fun, with themed sets, props, and playful staff happy to help you capture your favorite poses. On Thursdays, you can take your time, make silly faces with the celebs, and enjoy the interactive exhibits with fewer folks crowding your shot. It’s as much about creativity as celebrity—set up your own “red carpet moment” or go for one of the quirky behind-the-scenes experiences.  If you’re with friends who love pop culture or have a teen obsessed with social media, this spot is a hit. Plus—it’s right next door to other I-Drive attractions, so you can double up with SEA LIFE Aquarium or The Orlando Eye for a half-day of laughs and “did that really just happen?” moments.  Disney Springs: Thursday Evenings, Live Music, and Sweet Treats  Wrap up your Thursday in Orlando with a trip to Disney Springs—the city’s premier entertainment, dining, and shopping district. As twilight falls, the place comes alive with live music on the patios, illuminated fountains, and venues buzzing with locals and tourists alike.  Thursday nights are perfect for exploring without the Saturday crush. Wander the waterfront, catch a set at the Waterview Park stage, or sit under the lights at The Boathouse with fresh oysters and an Old Fashioned. Got a sweet tooth? You can’t go wrong with cookies from Gideon’s Bakehouse or decadent chocolates at The Ganachery. For a quick dinner with standout flavor, try Polite Pig’s famous brisket or Wolfgang Puck’s signature pizza.  Love shopping? Find everything from Disney fashion to unique homewares and trendy jewelry—many shops stay open late. If you’re looking for a nightcap, wander over to Wine Bar George for top-notch pours, or sip a Florida ale at Dockside Margaritas. The night air is warm, the lights twinkle, and your Thursday feels absolutely magical.    Orlando on a Thursday? Unbeatable. You’ve got wild animal encounters, world-class amusements, foodie heavens, and experiences that turn a midweek day into something epic. Whether you’re orbiting rockets at Kennedy, gawking at gators, or living it up at Disney Springs, Thursday is your golden ticket to seeing the city’s bold, brilliant best. Trust us—skip the “just another Thursday” routine and let Orlando show you how it’s done.    Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and why not explore the fascinating Museum of Illusions?  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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