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

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.

By Lindsay Eagan
Published: July 18, 2024
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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
Go City Travel Expert

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LEGOLAND® Florida vs. Fun Spot America: Your Orlando Thrill Guide

Planning a trip to Orlando can sometimes feel like sorting a bucket of loose LEGO® bricks: colorful, exciting, a little overwhelming, and loaded with possibilities. With the city bursting at the seams with theme parks, picking where to spend your precious holiday hours is no small task! Two gems that always spark curiosity—LEGOLAND® Florida and Fun Spot America—offer very different spins on family fun. Whether you’re craving bright, brick-built worlds or the whoosh of wild coasters, our guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the park that fits your group’s vibe, energy level, and appetite for fun.  The Lowdown  LEGOLAND® Florida  Location: Winter Haven, about 45 minutes from Orlando proper  Top draw: 150 acres packed with rides, stunning LEGO® creations, and a water park (seasonal)  Perfect for: Kids ages 2-12, LEGO® fans, families  Cool factor: Miniland USA’s tiny cities, LEGO® -themed roller coasters, and a lush botanical garden  Extras: Onsite LEGO® hotels, immersive experiences, special events    Fun Spot America Orlando  Location: Heart of International Drive, minutes from Universal and Disney  Top draw: Classic wooden coaster (White Lightning), multi-level go-karts, carnival rides, and arcade  Perfect for: All-ages thrill-seekers, classic amusement park lovers, quick fun  Cool factor: Free admission, pay-as-you-play, unlimited wristbands available  Extras: SkyCoaster, bumper cars, and an old-school fairground feel  Sounds good, tell me more...  Okay, so which one is most impressive?  LEGOLAND® Florida stands out for its unique creativity—where else can you see cities built from meticulously snapped-together bricks or zip around on a LEGO® dragon? The park’s scale means you can easily spend a full day (or two!), discovering world-building on an epic scale. Little surprises hide around every corner—talking figures, intricate mosaics, and whimsical shows. Everything here leans into adventure for kids, with gentle thrills tailored for toddlers up to tweens.  Fun Spot America, meanwhile, impresses with its flexibility and old-school appeal. You don’t need to plan your whole day around it—just pop in, grab some instant excitement, and move on to your next Orlando adventure. Its rides hit that sweet spot between adrenaline and nostalgia. The multi-level go-karts are a highlight, and climbing onto the SkyCoaster, you’ll appreciate just how high you’re soaring over the city’s colorful skyline. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the fun is just as real.  Which one is more fun?  They both bring a riot of energy, but in their own ways. LEGOLAND® shines for immersive worlds, hands-on play and the simple delight of creating something together. Families love the cooperative spirit—build memories (and castles), solve puzzles, and laugh through interactive shows. The magic sits in the details: the smell of fresh bricks, mischievous LEGO®  characters posing for photos, and the palpable sense of discovery.  Fun Spot America races ahead for classic, visceral thrills. The sensation of wind in your hair as you barrel down a go-kart track, the rush of White Lightning, and the giddy freedom of hopping from ride to ride at your own pace. It beckons groups of friends, teens, and anyone who wants that old-fashioned, no-fuss thrill with a sprinkle of nostalgia.  Which is more beautiful?  LEGOLAND® Florida’s lush, colorful sprawl wins here. The park weaves through a lush former botanical garden, with towering pines framing scenes of minifigs, rainbow-bright brickwork, and shimmering lakes. Paths wind you between whimsical LEGO® sculptures, splashing water features, and flower gardens where the colors pop in every direction. Sunshine or storm, LEGOLAND® always looks vibrant—and the natural surroundings ensure you don’t forget you’re in sunny Florida.  Fun Spot America channels a lively fairground charm. Neon lights, classic rides, vibrant signage, and sunsets over International Drive create a fun, energetic setting. When the coasters light up in the evening, and popcorn scents waft through the park, you get that warm, buzzing carnival glow that feels like summer year-round.  Which has the better view?  At LEGOLAND® Florida, climb the Island in the Sky rotating platform to get sweeping vistas of Lake Eloise and the surrounding park. The lakefront setting offers plenty of spots to pause and admire the water sparkling among the bricks. The botanical gardens also serve up scenic respites if you need to recharge.  Fun Spot America’s Ferris wheel and SkyCoaster both offer fantastic, if heart-thumping, perspectives. The SkyCoaster in particular gives you a bird’s-eye view of International Drive and the neon-drenched stretch of Orlando’s world-famous tourism strip. After dark, when the park lights flare up, the sight is pure magic.  How do I get there?  LEGOLAND® Florida sits about 45 minutes by car from Orlando’s theme park area. There’s no direct public transit from International Drive, but LEGOLAND® operates a dedicated shuttle from the I-Drive 360 / ICON Park area—reservations are a smart move as it fills fast.  Fun Spot America Orlando is right off International Drive, between Universal Orlando Resort and ICON Park. Lynx buses stop nearby, and it’s a short Uber or Lyft from major hotels. Its central location means you can combine your visit with other I-Drive or Universal attractions in the same day, no problem.  Best choice for families, couples or friends  Families with young kids lean toward LEGOLAND® Florida. With age-appropriate rides, interactive play zones, and gentle attractions, it’s especially welcoming for children aged 2-12. The themed hotels enhance the experience, letting little ones play right up until bedtime.  Friends and groups of mixed ages often gravitate to Fun Spot America. Its ride selection, go-karts, and arcade hit all the right notes for teens, adults, or anyone wanting a short, punchy burst of excitement. You can arrive late, catch the after-dark lights, and head out for a night in Orlando with ease.  Couples can enjoy either, but fun-loving duos will appreciate Fun Spot America’s cozy, slightly retro vibe for a spontaneous date night—especially if you’re the competitive type on a go-kart track!  I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain— which has more ‘hands-on’ activities?  LEGOLAND® delivers hands-on activities in spades. Kids build cars, race them, pilot boats, and tackle creative challenges daily. The LEGO® Creation Zones let your little engineers dig into bins of bricks, constructing wild contraptions (or following instructions—if that’s more your style). Character meet-and-greets, scavenger hunts, and live shows keep active minds engaged.  Fun Spot America leans into physical activity with go-kart races, bumper boats, and big, bouncy rides. The arcade—loaded with prize games—offers another way for kids to burn energy and win something cool.  What’s the accessibility like?  Both parks make accessibility a priority. LEGOLAND® Florida offers special ride passes for guests with disabilities, wheelchair rentals, and accessible pathways throughout the park. Detailed guides are available online and at guest services to help you plan your day.  Fun Spot America keeps things flexible, with step-free entrances on many rides and helpful staff to assist those with mobility questions. The relatively compact layout is especially friendly for those with strollers or mobility devices.  Best lunch spots nearby?  LEGOLAND® Florida  Granny’s Apple Fries (in the park)—legendary thick-cut fries dusted with cinnamon and sugar, served with a creamy dipping sauce. A must-try that’s unique to LEGOLAND® .  Bricks Family Restaurant (in the LEGOLAND® Hotel)—buffet-style, colorful decor, easygoing for groups, and even better for fussy eaters.  Harry's Old Place—just outside the park, classic Florida seafood spot with a lake view. Grab a Grouper Sandwich if you’re feeling adventurous. Casual, fun, and buzzing with locals.  Fun Spot America Orlando  Deli Fresh Cafe (in the park)—grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and picnic-style snacks, perfect for quick bites between rides.  Mrs. Potato—wallet-friendly Brazilian comfort food just a few blocks away; try the loaded “rosti” (a giant stuffed hash brown), a local favorite.  Cafe Tu Tu Tango—a few minutes up International Drive, vibrant boho décor, tapas plates, artists painting at your table, and a lively buzz. Be sure to try their famous sangria if you swing by for brunch.  For those craving variety, International Drive’s ICON Park complex packs tons of eateries and even a food hall—perfect for picky eaters and snackers.  Where are the best photo opportunities?  LEGOLAND® Florida offers photo gold everywhere you look. Miniland’s micro cities look especially vibrant in the morning or late afternoon — when the sun casts long shadows between LEGO® buildings. Don’t skip the dragon coaster for a mid-action snap, and be sure to pose by the signature entrance archway. Gardens, bridges, and lakeside benches are prime for family photos.  Fun Spot America brings neon and thrill to your Instagram grid. The Ferris wheel at sunset turns a simple selfie into a glowing backdrop, while the SkyCoaster’s harnessed descent creates pure action shots (smiles guaranteed). After sundown, the park’s illuminated rides make for endlessly colorful, lively pictures.  We’re finished and thirsty— is there a decent bar in the area?  Near LEGOLAND® Florida:  The Twisted Teapot: Quirky tea room by day, stylish cocktail hideout after hours, with craft gin drinks and cozy, mismatched furniture—a real winner in Winter Haven.  Old Man Frank’s: Laidback lakeside bar known for live music, crisp beers, and deck seating on the water. The perfect way to wind down after a day with the kids.  Near Fun Spot America Orlando:  Icebar Orlando: A chilled-out spot—literally—where everything (including your glass) is carved from ice. Their signature “Firebird” cocktail will warm you right back up.  Miller’s Ale House: Friendly neighborhood hangout just around the corner, with dozens of draft beers, crowd-pleasing menu, and specials all week.  For a fancier toast, The Hampton Social at ICON Park pours craft rosé cocktails and fresh-spun seafood towers—great for people-watching and a little indulgence.  We’re finished and thirsty— is there a decent bar in the area?  Near LEGOLAND® Florida:  The Twisted Teapot: Quirky tea room by day, stylish cocktail hideout after hours, with craft gin drinks and cozy, mismatched furniture—a real winner in Winter Haven.  Old Man Frank’s: Laidback lakeside bar known for live music, crisp beers, and deck seating on the water. The perfect way to wind down after a day with the kids.  Near Fun Spot America Orlando:  Icebar Orlando: A chilled-out spot—literally—where everything (including your glass) is carved from ice. Their signature “Firebird” cocktail will warm you right back up.  Miller’s Ale House: Friendly neighborhood hangout just around the corner, with dozens of draft beers, crowd-pleasing menu, and specials all week.  For a fancier toast, The Hampton Social at ICON Park pours craft rosé cocktails and fresh-spun seafood towers—great for people-watching and a little indulgence.  Summary  When it comes to fun in Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida and Fun Spot America both deliver adventure in completely different packages. LEGOLAND® is our pick for creative, gentle curiosity and multi-day wonder, while Fun Spot America nails nostalgic fairground thrills and flexible, come-and-go excitement. Whichever you choose, rest easy knowing you’re in for unforgettable experiences, unique to Orlando—and if you’re clever with your planning, you can even try both!  With Go City, you’ll make the most of your time and budget, exploring Tampa Bay, Orlando, and beyond for less, with one handy pass. Here’s to making your next Orlando vacation as vibrant and thrilling as you’ve been dreaming.    Like this? Why not check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or see LEGOLAND®  size up Disney World?  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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Best Shopping in Orlando - Trendy, Affordable, Outlet Malls & More

You can't leave O-town without paying a visit to one of its many malls and partaking in a shopping spree – you are on vacation after all. Here's our pick of the best stores, outlet malls and more, whatever your budget...
Casey Makovich
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Downtown Orlando Delights: Top Experiences for Your Orlando Getaway

When folks think of Orlando, giant mouse ears and rollercoasters probably come to mind first. But if you’re skipping downtown, you’re missing out on the city’s coolest side. We’re talking sky-high views, neon-lit nights, lively street art, one-of-a-kind museums, and Florida flavors you’ll remember well after your tan fades. Downtown Orlando has its own distinct buzz—think indie cafés, waterfront strolls under swaying palms, rowdy sports games, and unexpected treasures around almost every corner. Whether you’re here for family fun, a food crawl, or that perfect Insta shot, we’ll show you the very best ways to fill your downtown day (and night).  Our favorite things to do in Downtown Orlando include:  The Orlando Eye  Madame Tussauds Orlando  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium  WonderWorks  Gatorland  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show  Museum of Illusions  Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts  Lake Eola Park  Thornton Park Eats & Drinks  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Rub Elbows with the Stars  Ever dream of sharing the stage with pop royalty, sports legends, and superheroes—all in a single afternoon? Madame Tussauds Orlando is the place. This world-famous wax museum delivers the ultimate selfie playground. The lifelike figures are so spot-on, you’ll swear Shaq’s about to challenge you to a pickup game or Taylor Swift’s going to belt out “Shake It Off.”  Wander through themed zones—music, movies, sports, and even a spot dedicated to Florida greats like Pitbull and Walt Disney. Strike a pose with Wonder Woman, take a seat in Johnny Depp’s pirate lair, or stand next to Superman. Each set is decked out with detailed props and creative backdrops; this isn’t just wax on a pedestal—it’s interactive, fun, and ultra-shareable.  Madame Tussauds is a people-watching treat too, as guests try to outdo each other with goofy poses. If you’re with kids, they’ll love snapping pics of their favorite cartoon and movie icons. And if the Florida rain strikes? It’s the perfect downtown rainy day escape—cool, unique, and just a little bit unexpected.  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Dive Into Stunning Underwater Worlds  Need a break from the Florida heat? Slip into SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and enter a cool, blue world of aquatic wonder. You’ll wander winding tunnels with sharks and rays overhead, hang out with rescued sea turtles, and get up close with every kind of creature—from playful seahorses to vibrant clownfish.  There’s something hypnotic about drifting through the 360-degree tunnel, surrounded by swirling schools of fish and glittering jellyfish. Each exhibit puts you face-to-face with gentle giants and dazzling little swimmers alike. The displays are immersive and thoughtfully designed to educate while they stun, with interactive touch pools and talks from resident marine experts who love dropping cool ocean facts.  SEA LIFE goes above and beyond for families: kids can earn stamps in a Discovery Booklet, and there are regular themed events that make every visit feel fresh. The aquarium’s conservation efforts are inspiring too—learn about turtle rescues, shark preservation, and the role Orlando plays in global conservation. Whether you’re traveling with nature lovers, little ones, or your inner science nerd, SEA LIFE is a must for the memory books.  WonderWorks: Where Science Gets Seriously Wacky  Do science museums have to be serious? Not at WonderWorks! As soon as you spot the upside-down façade, you know you’re in for something wild. Inside, this interactive playground has over 100 hands-on exhibits designed to spark your curiosity (and get you moving, laughing, and learning).  Start with Florida’s only indoor ropes course—strapped in and suspended high above the exhibit floor (don’t worry, safety first!). Experiment with hurricane-force winds, play virtual sports, or try your hand at lying across a bed of 3,500 nails (yep, it’s safe—and you’ll want a photo). Budding astronauts will geek out over the space zone, while little ones love the bubble lab and massive light wall.  The atmosphere is pure energy—part amusement park, part ‘school trip’ you’ll actually want to join. WonderWorks is perfect if you’re traveling with a group: there’s something to challenge every age and interest, and the interactive magic never stops. Plus, on weekend evenings, you can stay for the Outta Control Magic Dinner Show—a quirky combo of comedy, magic, pizza, and audience shenanigans.  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show: Laughs, Illusions, and All-You-Can-Eat Pizza  If you’re after dinner and a show with a difference, look no further. The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show is a riotous blend of magic, comedy, audience participation, and pizza—lots and lots of pizza. Take your seat in an intimate theater, grab a slice (or three), and prepare for 90 minutes of non-stop entertainment.  The acts are zany and interactive—think mentalism tricks, vanishing rings, and plenty of witty banter. It’s a family-friendly show, but the sly jokes keep adults as invested as the kids. Every performance is part-scripted, part-improvised, and no two nights are ever the same thanks to audience volunteers.  There’s a laid-back, anything-goes energy that sets this dinner show apart from flashier Vegas-style options. The meal is unlimited pizza and salad alongside beer, wine, and soft drinks—no fussy dress code or hefty check at the end. It’s a classic vacation experience: equal parts delicious, ridiculous, and totally unique to Orlando.  Museum of Illusions: Mind Games for All Ages  Get ready to be tricked—in the best possible way. The Museum of Illusions is a downtown favorite for anyone who loves puzzles, playful photos, or optical oddities. This multi-room experience is packed with mind-bending illusions: rooms that seem to defy gravity, 3D holograms, swirling vortex tunnels, and art pieces that seem to come alive from every angle.  What makes it unforgettable? Unlike traditional museums, you’re an active participant here. Clamber onto a floating chair, find your head on a platter, or pose in a room where you’ll seem to shrink and grow with every step. The staff are geniuses at helping you snap the perfect photographic illusion, so your social media feeds are guaranteed to pop.  Whether you’re young or old, a selfie fanatic or just curious how the magic works, you’ll leave laughing (and a little stumped by what you’ve seen). The Museum of Illusions is a quick-walking distance from many downtown cafés and shops, so it makes for the perfect pit stop during a day out.  Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts: Orlando’s Stage for World-Class Entertainment  Downtown Orlando radiates culture, and nowhere does it shine brighter than at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The building itself is an architectural stunner—sleek lines, soaring glass, and a sweeping plaza that’s buzzing at showtime. Inside, you’ll find a stacked calendar featuring Broadway musicals, international concerts, cutting-edge dance, side-splitting comedy, and local performers.  Taking in a show here is all about atmosphere: ushers in crisp uniforms, a chic lobby bar serving up creative cocktails, and floor-to-ceiling windows revealing city lights twinkling outside. Whether you’re catching Hamilton, grooving to jazz, or checking out kids’ theater, every seat puts you close to the action thanks to perfect acoustics and state-of-the-art tech.  If you’re not sure what’s playing, duck into the attached Seneff Arts Plaza on a weekend evening. Sometimes you’ll find live music, pop-up dance parties, or food truck festivals set against the downtown skyline. For show lovers and culture vultures, the Dr. Phillips Center is always a highlight.  Lake Eola Park: Swans, Picnics, and City Views  You haven’t truly experienced downtown Orlando until you’ve strolled—or pedaled—a loop around shimmering Lake Eola. Set right in the city center, this patch of green is Orlando’s favorite gathering spot. Start with the lake itself: it’s dotted with graceful white swans, playful paddle boat rentals (the swan boats are adorable!), and a fountain that lights up with rainbow colors after dark.  Visit on Sundays for the bustling farmers market, where local bakers, flower stands, and food pop-ups set up shop under the shade of giant oak trees. Whether you grab artisan honey, locally roasted coffee, or a picnic of fresh fruits and pastries, you’ll want to linger in the sun.  The walking trail is ringed with public art, gardens, shady benches, and ideal picnic spots. The historic Walt Disney Amphitheater hosts free concerts, stage shows, and movie nights. In the evening, the backdrop of downtown’s glittering towers reflected in the water makes for a uniquely urban-florida scene. It’s a family-friendly (and pet-friendly) oasis that’s always buzzing with a mix of locals, runners, and happy tourists.  Thornton Park Eats & Drinks: Indie Vibes with Maximum Flavor  Craving a true Orlando foodie experience? Just east of Lake Eola, Thornton Park is the neighborhood to hit. This walkable district is known for creative restaurants, lively patios, indie boutiques, and a crowd that’s always up for a good time. The streets are paved with brick, lined with quirky street art, and dotted with outdoor tables—every meal here feels like joining a street festival.  Need inspiration? Kres Chophouse serves up legendary hand-cut steaks and classic martinis in a stylish vintage building—perfect for a big night, especially if you snag a seat on the balcony. Head to Soco for Southern comfort with an upscale twist: crispy chicken and waffles or the signature duck confit with sweet potato waffles are both standouts. Meanwhile, Eola Wine Company is the spot to sip local and international wines alfresco, with charcuterie boards designed for lingering.  On the casual side, grab a Cuban sandwich and sweet plantains from Benjamin French Bakery or artisan gelato from The Greenery Creamery. The whole area pulses with energy as day turns to night—think hidden craft cocktail bars, live DJs, and artsy open-air events on almost every block. It’s the ultimate spot to toast to your Orlando trip, meet locals, and eat your way through the city in pure Florida style.    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or browse our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando,   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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