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International Drive Attractions - Fun Things to Do on I-Drive & at ICON 360 Orlando

There's plenty of amusement in this area of O-Town.
By Lindsay Eagan

On International Drive you'll find attractions that appeal to the whole family - from theme parks to the largest observation wheel on the East Coast.

Planning a vacation to Orlando? A stop at ICON Orlando 360 (formerly I-Drive 360 Orlando) and its many attractions should be added to your itinerary. International Drive is an 11-mile stretch of Orlando roadway that serves as a highly popular tourist district for the city.

Check out our helpful guide for visiting Orlando's International Drive attractions, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more.

Things to do on International Drive Orlando

ICON Orlando 360 has been undergoing a tourism renaissance that makes the area more attractive than ever. For instance, the ICON Orlando 360 project added several new attractions and multiple dining options. Here are a few of our favorites that we recommend you add to your vacation itinerary...

ICON Orlando (formerly Coca-Cola Orlando Eye)

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The centerpiece of the ICON Orlando 360 complex, ICON Orlando is a 400-foot observation tower that has quickly become an icon along International Drive. The recently renamed Orlando landmark is the tallest observation wheel on the entire east coast of the United States.

On board one of the high-tech capsules, you'll use interactive iPad tablets that let you explore the sights and landmarks you can see along your ride. On a clear day, you can see Florida's space coast. You'll love soaring through the sky during your 20-minute ride while learning all about your surroundings.

Getting In: ICON Orlando is separately ticketed.

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

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Also located in the ICON Orlando 360 complex, the SEA LIFE Aquarium in Orlando is a state-of-the-art aquarium that offers stunning visuals and plenty of interactive opportunities. This is perfect for families with young children who will appreciate the kid-level viewing opportunities and interactive rock pool. But older kids are sure to be amazed by the awe-inspiring marine life too.

This attraction takes the aquarium experience to a whole new level! Come face-to-face with more than 5,000 creatures including colorful fish, seahorses, jellyfish, barracudas, a Giant Pacific Octopus, sharks, and more. From interactive displays to gigantic tanks full of aquatic life, a day at the aquarium is a must.

Getting In: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium tickets are available on all Orlando passes.

Madame Tussauds Orlando

Madame Tussauds has built a worldwide brand by featuring uncannily lifelike wax figures of history's and pop culture's most iconic stars. The Madame Tussauds Orlando location in the ICON Orlando 360 Complex includes figures of Jimmy Fallon, Pitbull, Shrek, Marilyn Monroe and more!

Madame Tussauds Orlando
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

Don't miss the Justice League: A Call For Heroes exhibit, where you can meet your favorite crime-fighters like Wonder Woman, Batman, and Superman. Pose next to their famous figures and peruse the iconic gadgets used in the films. Snap a selfie with your favorite celeb, sing on stage with some of the greats, and have a wonderful day living like an A-lister.

Getting In: Madame Tussauds Orlando tickets are available on all Orlando passes.

SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology

Located in the ICON Orlando 360 Complex, this is a first-of-its-kind museum.

SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology has over 450 real animal skeletons in never-before-seen poses and dioramas. Enjoy 40 captivating exhibits that will give you a new perspective and appreciation for the animal kingdom. It's an interesting and educational attraction for families in the heart of ICON 360 Orlando.

You can even learn about the curation process and see the museum's collection of flesh-eating beetles in action! From interactive touch tables to flawless displays, this museum is a truly unique place you should visit on your Orlando trip.

Getting In: SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology is separately ticketed.

WonderWorks Orlando

Just north of the Orange County Convention Center, WonderWorks Orlando is hard to miss as its structure was constructed upside down! WonderWorks bills itself as “an amusement park for the mind” with 35,000 square feet of educational, yet entertaining, opportunities. The hardest part of your visit will be choosing where to start. Visit the Physical Challenge Zone, Natural Disasters, Light and Sound Zone, Space Discovery, the Imagination Lab, and the Far Out Art Gallery.

WonderCoasters

Each area is guaranteed to entertain and teach you something new. Other features include a Laser Tag Arena, an Indoor Ropes Challenge, and a 4D XD Simulator Ride. This is a terrific combination of physical and mental activities designed to engage the entire family.

Getting In: WonderWorks Orlando tickets are included on the Go Orlando pass.

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando

From its construction to its contents, just about everything about Ripley's Believe it or Not! Orlando is unusual. Ripley's calls its collections “Odditoriums”, a fitting name for items that range from a dress made out of licorice to the world's smallest deck of cards. You never know what you're going to see next! With 16 galleries and hundreds of unique showcases to explore, the photo opportunities are endless and the odd and bizarre waits around every corner. Ripley's is a must for anyone visiting Orlando.

Getting In: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando is separately ticketed.

Fun Spot America Theme Park Orlando

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This is one of America's only family-owned theme parks and home to Orlando's only wooden roller coaster. Adults and kids alike enjoy their multi-level Go-Karts, thrill rides, family rides, and an arcade midway. Enjoy a day riding on the bumper boats, The Revolver Ferris wheel, the Paratrooper, and more.

There are rides to entertain the littlest to the biggest kid. Fun Spot America Orlando admission features a pay-for-what-you-do structure and some great dining options!

Getting In: Fun Spot America Orlando - 4 Ride Sampler tickets are included on all Orlando passes.

Congo River Adventure Golf

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Combine your family's sense of adventure with a challenging game of miniature golf at Congo River Adventure Golf. Have a friendly game among a giant waterfall, a crashed airplane, rocky summits, and mysterious caves. There's even a downloadable scorecard app to help you track your adventure. Everybody wins when you take on Congo River Adventure Golf.

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

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

This is a unique opportunity to uncover the history of the Titanic. View over 200 original artifacts recovered from the wreckage, 2.5 miles below the surface of the North Atlantic Ocean. This is an impressive, educational, and touching trip through time. Original artifacts include the engine control, permanently and hauntingly stuck in “full-reverse” and a large section of the ship's steel hull.

Tours are conducted by actors, dressed in period costumes who portray actual passengers. Place your hand on a replica iceberg and feel the cold of that fateful evening for yourself. It'll be like you've been transported to the Titanic yourself. 

Getting In: Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition tickets are included on all Orlando passes.

Coco Key Water Park

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What better way to enjoy the Florida sun than with a visit to International Drive's Coco Key Water Park? Here, the kids can enjoy refreshing water slides and tubes and a jungle of water-related activities. Kids can splash and play all day long in four heated pools, on 14 slides, and in a 6,500 sq. ft. arcade. They're sure to be occupied all day - and you can all enjoy the sun poolside, too. You can feel comfortable knowing Coco Key Water Park is well supervised, with up to 15 lifeguards on duty at any time. 

Getting In: CoCo Key Water Park tickets are available on the Orlando Explorer pass only.

Places to eat nearby

ICON Orlando 360 (formerly I-Drive 360 Orlando) includes an amazing selection of places to eat from fast food to unique international dining options. The complex offers everything from walk-up snack foods and ice cream to 5-star dining experiences. Here are just a few of the choices you'll discover in this amazing part of Orlando.

  • Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse - don't bother looking anywhere else for a succulent steak on the I-Drive! Their menu will make your mouth water with its options of steaks, chicken, seafood, and more, and an award-winning wine list to boot.

  • Sugar Factory - famous for its gigantic, sugary drinks, this restaurant does it all. Enjoy cocktails, mocktails, delicious meals, and more at this full-service establishment.

  • Uncle Julio's Mexican Restaurant – Enjoy the best fajitas and margaritas in town. This restaurant provides the ultimate Mexican dining experience for the whole family.

  • Shake Shack – One of the best burger chains on the East Coast, Shake Shack is an easy and delicious meal to stop in for during your day of activities.

  • Food Court - no need to stop in for a full-service meal, check out the food court for tons more options.

Tips for visiting ICON 360 Orlando

  • Park at the ICON 360 Orlando Complex - If you are not staying at one of the local resorts or hotels, the best option for parking is near the ICON 360 Orlando Complex. There's plenty of surface parking and a multi-level parking garage and both are free and within walking distance of many attractions.

  • Wear comfortable shoes - To best experience ICON 360 Orlando and its attractions, be prepared for plenty of walking. You will be well-served to wear thick socks and comfortable shoes.

  • Remember, this is Florida weather - Don't be discouraged by forecasts of 60% rain or higher. Especially in the summer, rains can occur as brief showers in the afternoon, leaving the rest of the day sunny. Make sure everyone has a lightweight poncho.

  • Consider using the International Drive Trolley System - International Drive has a convenient trolley system. Stops are clearly marked up and down the strip and the next trolley is never too far away. Tip: make sure you remember your initial stop number so you can return where you started.

  • Make a plan - Determine your “must-see” attractions and “must-dine” restaurants. Make sure everyone has input. Divide the number of attractions you want to see by the amount of time you have to create an enjoyable, less stressful vacation experience.

  • Bring the sunscreen and a hat! - The Central Florida sunshine means that you will want to keep exposed skin protected.

  • Choose a souvenir strategy. Virtually every attraction has its own gift shop. Do you want a small item from each stop? Where do you get something for everyone in the family? Perhaps you create an overall budget per person. Having a souvenir strategy in place before you head out can help keep you within budget.

  • Enjoy a meal at one of the many outside dining options. Many of ICON 360's restaurants offer alfresco dining. 

  • Enjoy a diverse shopping experience. The International Drive area is home to some of Orlando's most popular shopping destinations. The Mall at Millennia is only a short drive from the attractions and features brand-name stores. Orlando International Premium Outlets and Artegon Marketplace are both at the very north end of the street.

Where is International Drive?

For those unfamiliar with International Drive, it travels roughly parallel to Interstate 4 south of Orlando. I-4 is the main north-south artery through Orlando and many of the attractions of ICON 360 Orlando can be seen while traveling on this part of I-4.

International Drive is a major Orlando thoroughfare that is used by residents, ICON 360 Orlando employees, convention goers, and vacationers.

Best times to visit

International Drive Orlando

In-season, International Drive traffic, especially north of Sand Lake Road can get congested. Adding to this congestion is the fact that there is so much to see along the way. If possible, visit in the off-season months of January, February, September, October and November.

You'll also want to start your day early to make the most of it. Many attractions don't start seeing big crowds until after lunch, so the earlier you can visit, the less time you will likely spend in lines. Make sure you spend at least part of your time there in the evening. The lights of the various attractions create a completely different atmosphere.

If you are looking for nightlife, the restaurants and clubs just north of the convention center have a pulse of their own. Visiting during the summer months can be warm, but it doesn't stop the crowds. The energy is great any time of year, so enjoy the people-watching!

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. 

Lindsay Eagan

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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
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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.
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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

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