10+ Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

O-town offers so much more than rides and rollercoasters! You've got unique museums, magic shows and adventure golf, to name a few. And if you fancy getting your nature fix, find out how you can explore the Everglades on a thrill-seeking airboat tour.

By Lindsay Eagan
Published: July 18, 2024
Orlando alternatives

If you're visitng the Orlando area but are looking for things to do in Florida other than the theme parks, don't worry! There's plenty of things to do in Orlando for those who crave a gentler thrill.

Central Florida is a traveler's paradise - fabulous weather, delicious cuisine, and attractions to appeal to any and all visitors.

Explore your cultural side with museums. Cultivate your tan on the beach or a cruise. Indulge your inner child (or your own children) with a visit to a classic amusement park. Whatever you have in mind, Orlando's got you covered for things to do.

To help you plan that perfect Florida vay-cay, here's a list of fun things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, including other entertainment and amusement options to help maximize your experience.

 

The Wheel at Icon Park

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

The Wheel at ICON Park is located on International Drive and is part of the I-360 complex. Be sure to add this high up on your list of things to do while in Orlando. First opened in 2015, this 400-foot observation wheel has quickly become an "iconic" part of the Orlando skyline and Orlando experience.

The Wheel offers stunning views of downtown Orlando and on a clear day, you may be able to see Cape Canaveral to the East. Viewing the Wheel from the ground up will give you a greater sense of its magnitude. The wheel is lit every evening and sunset flights may be a perfect choice.

 

Kennedy Space Center

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Visit NASA's launch headquarters, the only place on Earth where you can meet astronauts, see rockets, experience flight simulations, and even see a real launch (check the launch schedule in advance). The Kennedy Space Center is just an hour east of Orlando near Titusville and well worth the drive! The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex features educational and engaging "Mission Zones" where attractions and tours are organized by chronological era--from the beginning of space exploration to current and ongoing projects in space.

Interested in seeing a real launch? Check the Kennedy Space Center schedule of events and see if you can plan your visit around any of the upcoming launches. Launch viewing is included with all general admission tickets to the Kennedy Space Center.

 

Museum of Illusions

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Ready to have your perception of reality challenged?! Enter the world of the Museum of Illusions, home to over 50 exhibits where you’ll find yourself defying the laws of gravity, shrinking to miniature size, and gazing into infinity...

Have your world shifted 90 degrees in the Rotating Room, get lost in space inside the Infinity Room, and experience mind-bending optical illusions in the fantastic Anti-Gravity Room.

You won't want to forget to bring a camera so you can capture some awesome memories, but if you do then don't fret, the Museum of Illusions has a built-in photo experience in some of the key exhibits!

 

Gatorland: The Alligator Capital of the World

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Also known as the 'Alligator Capital of the World,' Gatorland is a must-see for anyone who wants to get a real feel for Everglades' nature, culture, and animals. This 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve is filled with engaging exhibits, exciting rides, and thrilling gator-themed entertainment.

There are so many things to do here, but we'll name a few of our favorites: take advantage of 1,200 feet of zip lines for the whole family, participate in “rookie” gator wrestling for young visitors, climb an observation tower, take a train ride through the park, and step inside an aviary.

Check out one of the multiple shows scheduled daily. Be sure not to miss the four rare "white" alligators that call the park home.

 

Boggy Creek Airboat Tour

No Florida trip is complete without an airboat ride!

Embark on a Boggy Creek Airboat adventure and explore the Central Florida Everglades, home to lots of alligators, turtles, birds, and other diverse Florida wildlife. Enjoy the speed and thrills of skimming above the water's surface while getting an up-close look at plenty of native wildlife in Central Florida.

This is the perfect thing to do for families, combining an adrenaline rush, appreciation of the environment, and Florida's natural beauty. If you're visiting in the summer, consider an evening tour to avoid the high heat of the mid-day.

 

WonderWorks

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Young travelers will especially appreciate the 100+ hands-on science exhibits at WonderWorks, while parents will love the educational elements. Just north of the Orange County Convention Center on I-Drive, WonderWorks' upside-down construction is attention-getting!  Inside visitors will find laser tag, a rope course, a 6-D motion ride, and lots more. Lie on a bed of nails and learn about how the distribution of your weight keeps you from getting impaled, experience a 5.3-degree earthquake simulation, design your own roller coaster, feel the winds of a 74-mile per hour hurricane, and many other exhilarating activities!

Madame Tussauds

World-famous for their life-sized, realistic wax figures, Madame Tussauds Orlando is selfie heaven. It's the ideal destination for your star-struck teens, your cartoon-loving little ones, and your Netflix-bingeing selves.

Pose with such famous “people” as Kung Fu Panda, Jimmy Fallon, Pitbull, Scarlett Johansson, Brad Pitt, Michael Jackson, Shrek, and many more. While photos are not allowed in some Orlando attractions, Madame Tussauds encourages them! This is a self-guided attraction so take your time visiting with your favorites stars.

 

Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

If you're looking for something unique to add to your dining itinerary, the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show is it. This 90-minute improv comedy show is a delight not to be missed.

Enjoy the comedic stylings of your hosts as they pull you into the entertainment with active audience participation. You can also marvel at magic tricks, watch your host predict the future, and even have your mind read. At the same time, you'll be able to dine on a casual but tasty meal of pizza, salad, dessert, and unlimited beverages. Take the kids to experience a wonderful evening out they'll never forget!

 

SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando

Part of the I-360 complex along I-Drive, SEA LIFE Aquarium provides a glimpse into the future of aquariums. This attraction is engineered to provide visitors - especially young ones - with experiences that are up close and personal. Explore the world's oceans through amazing plexiglass windows and tunnels. Visitors will get to see sharks, rays, turtles, and a hands-on touch pool experience.

This is a visually stunning day out for adults and an educational one for children. The gift shop at the end offers a variety of souvenirs and gifts and provides a prize for small visitors who complete their 'passport' through the aquarium.

 

Congo River Adventure Golf

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

If you're in the market for some good, old-fashioned family fun, Congo River Adventure Golf has got you covered. This award-winning mini-golf course is beloved among visitors for many reasons.

Here you can explore caves, feed live alligators, play video games, challenge family members to Florida's most unique basketball hoops game, and take part in gem mining. Play the Exploration Game, a game within a game as you go through your adventure. Find the necessary artifacts and return to Safari Headquarters to claim your reward.

Be sure to budget in enough time to fully enjoy everything Congo River has to offer!

 

Gray Line Orlando Tours

One of the best ways to really "see" Orlando is on a Gray Line Orlando Tour. Their City of Orlando Tour is an excellent option for first-time visitors and it comes highly recommended by travelers. Orlando is a large metropolitan area with a vibrant downtown. Start with a cruise through Lake Eola around Winter Park and through the town of Celebration, where you can enjoy the unique architecture of this global city.

After you get off the boat, you'll have time to stroll around Park Avenue, Orlando's shopping and dining district filled with cute boutiques, great wine bars, and more. Finally, pay a visit to the City of Celebration, an ideal community designed by none other than Walt Disney himself.

 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tours

Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Relax aboard a scenic pontoon boat tour of the pristine Chain of Lakes in Orlando's Winter Park area. These Winter Park boat tours offer hour-long, guided cruises through three of the seven lakes and two, narrow man-made canals on the tranquil waters. Tours include views of opulent private homes and mansions, palms swaying in the breezes, and the occasional alligator basking on the shoreline.

The Escape Game Orlando

After some theme park-style fun with a challenging twist? Get a group of friends or family together and solve one of several themed escape room games. You’ll have 60 minutes to put your problem-solving skills to the test and work as a team to escape before it's too late.

Take your pick from loads of uniquely themed games including Playground, where you’ll be transported back to your childhood to do some crazy classroom assignments, and Prison Break where you'll carry out a daring escape from your cell.

Save on Admission to Popular Orlando Attractions

Besides these there are even more things to do in Orlando and Go City is a better way to sightsee in Florida. If you buy one pass you can choose from dozens of Orlando activities and save up to 50% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. It's a no-brainer really. So grab an Orlando pass and save while you sightsee!

Lindsay Eagan
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

mother and daughter hanging out
Blog

Spoil Mom in Orlando: The Ultimate Mother’s Day Adventure

Mother’s Day in Orlando: Celebrate With Sun, Smiles, and Memories  Mother’s Day deserves a whole lot more than flowers and a generic card. And lucky you—if you’re celebrating in Orlando, you’re in the perfect place to give her a day (or even a weekend!) packed with joy, surprises, and plenty of you-time together. From spa escapes and swanky brunches to quirky museums, unforgettable attractions and sunset strolls, Orlando offers something to make every mom feel appreciated. Whether your celebration style is thrill rides and laughter or chilled-out pampering, you’ll find amazing options right here.  We’re sharing our favorite Orlando experiences, ranging from world-class attractions to local gems. Plus, we've sprinkled in great spots to eat, unwind, and create special Mother’s Day memories you'll talk about for years.  Our top Orlando Mother’s Day picks include:  Kennedy Space Center  Orlando Eye  The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show  Chocolate Kingdom  Gatorland  Museum of Illusions  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Afternoon tea at The Glass Knife  Paddleboarding at Lake Eola  Park Avenue shopping and brunch in Winter Park  Ready to give mom an unforgettable day? Let’s dive in!  Kennedy Space Center: For the Out-of-this-World Mom  Think Mom would like to spend her big day training like an astronaut? The Kennedy Space Center is the kind of experience that feels like a bucket-list dream, even for the least likely space fan. Just a short drive from Orlando, this one-of-a-kind destination blends awe-inspiring science, hands-on fun, and a real sense of wonder.  Step through the rocket garden dotted with massive Saturn V engines, then head into the Space Shuttle Atlantis pavilion—it never fails to give a sense of goosebumps as the real shuttle looms overhead. Moms who love history, adventure, or just the thrill of new discoveries will be absorbed by tales of astronauts, lunar exploration, and future Mars missions. You’ll both get a kick out of the “Shuttle Launch Experience,” where you strap in and see what blasting into space actually feels like. But there’s just as much to enjoy at a gentle pace: explore fascinating hands-on exhibits, watch quick films narrated by astronauts, and take a bus tour to get behind-the-scenes views of the launch pads.  The ambience? Wide-eyed excitement. There’s plenty of space (pun intended!) to wander without crowds elbowing you for a closer look. Treat Mom to a coffee at the Moon Rock Café, peruse the on-site shops for unique NASA keepsakes, and maybe, just maybe, spot a real astronaut. The Kennedy Space Center transforms any Mother’s Day into a galactic celebration—with memories that will have her grinning for light years.  The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: Dinner, Laughs, and Pure Fun  Tired of the same-ol’ restaurant reservations for Mother’s Day? Shake things up with The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show at WonderWorks. This is dinner and a show, Orlando style! It’s two hours of gut-busting improv, sleight-of-hand tricks, and audience participation—with piping hot unlimited pizza, salad, beer, wine, and soft drinks to keep everyone fueled up for fun.  The mood here is upbeat, quirky, and super welcoming. Even the shyest mom ends up giggling (or maybe even being pulled up for a magic trick). The show mixes magic, clowning, and improv, so there’s never a dull moment—even teens and too-cool-for-school grandkids get drawn in. This is that rare spot in Orlando where everyone’s inner child gets to come out and play.  We love the relaxed setting: it’s casual, colorful, never stuffy, and wonderfully impossible to take too seriously. Book your seats, leave your worries at the door, and enjoy a night where mom gets to be the star audience member. It’s stress-free, memorable, and the kind of experience that guarantees plenty of fun stories later.  Chocolate Kingdom: The Sweetest Mother’s Day Surprise  Want to win major points on Mother’s Day? Two words: chocolate tour. Chocolate Kingdom is where sweet dreams and Willy Wonka fantasies come true. Set near International Drive, this interactive factory tour whisks you through the magical process of turning cocoa bean to decadent bar.  Start by following a cheerful, chocolate-loving “personal guide” through the storytelling adventure—there’s a lot of humor and even some hands-on mini-challenges. Peek inside the working chocolate factory, taste-test rich samples, and get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how truffles, bars, and bonbons emerge from humble beans. The high point comes when you craft your own customized chocolate bar with sprinkle, nut, and fruit add-ons galore.  The space is colorful and lively: think whimsical decor, friendly guides, and wafting scents of melted chocolate (simply irresistible). Young kids, crazy teens, and sweet-toothed adults all come out smiling—especially when Mom gets her pick of the day’s freshest treats at the gift shop. For a delicious, lighthearted Mother’s Day outing, Chocolate Kingdom will leave everyone in high spirits (and possibly high on sugar).  Gatorland: Wild Encounters for the Adventurous Mom  If your mom has a zesty sense of adventure (and a soft spot for creatures great and small), Gatorland is just the ticket to amp up your Orlando Mother’s Day. Here, the mood is equal parts down-home Florida fun and real-deal wildlife. You’ll stroll past lush marshes, laugh at the goofy gator “feeding shows,” and maybe even spot towering crocodiles soaking up the sun.  But Gatorland goes way beyond reptilian antics—you can feed exotic birds, hop aboard the train safari, or snap a family photo cradling a baby gator. Brave souls can walk the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line over hundreds of toothy residents (aka, bragging rights for an epic Mother’s Day). There’s also the Breeding Marsh and rookery, where herons, egrets, and sunbathing turtles share the spotlight.  The genuine warmth of Gatorland’s staff shines through, with plenty of chances to ask questions or just swap stories about Florida’s wild side. If your celebration crowd includes energetic kids or anyone who loves being outdoors, this is a unique, accessible slice of Florida that leaves everyone grinning—with mild thrills catered to every comfort level.  Museum of Illusions: Wacky Photo Fun for All Ages  If the plan is to fill Mom’s feed with unforgettable photos and laughter, head to the Museum of Illusions. This downtown Orlando gem invites you (and your phone’s camera) into a dazzling maze of mind-bending rooms, optical tricks, and “how did they do that?” moments.  The themes range from dizzying vortex tunnels to upside-down living rooms, trippy mirrored spaces, and gravity-defying puzzles. Every room is purpose-built for creative snaps—so expect your camera roll to look like something out of a dream. The atmosphere is light, silly, and endlessly entertaining, with staff on hand to help set up the best shots.  This is a choose-your-own-pace kind of experience; whether you breeze through or linger to outwit every exhibit, there’s huge satisfaction in stumping your senses together. Family groups, friend squads, and especially selfie-pros will adore this place—and it keeps spirits high even on brief afternoon visits. Finish your trip with a browse through the shop, which stocks clever puzzles and optical toys (great for take-home reminders of your fun day out).  Afternoon Tea at The Glass Knife: Elegant Treats and Sparkling Tea Sets  Wondering where to pamper Mom without leaving Orlando’s heart? The Glass Knife in Winter Park delivers like nowhere else—this bright, Insta-perfect bakery is one part cake wonderland, one part modern tea salon. For Mother’s Day, book their special afternoon tea and look forward to tiered stands of mini sandwiches, just-baked scones with jam and cream, and exquisitely decorated desserts.  What makes it memorable? Sunlight streams across pink velvet chairs, marble tables positively gleam, and the staff’s attention to detail makes everyone feel cherished. Choose from specialty teas, sparkling mocktails, or even a glass of rosé. The vibe is part classic elegance, part playful delight: admire the whimsical cakes at the dessert counter, sip slowly, and savor a well-earned pause.  Don’t skip their signature seasonal pastries—think lemon meringue tarts, silky chocolate mousse domes or the much-loved red velvet cake. If your mom loves cozy catch-ups and delicate flavors, The Glass Knife will elevate her Mother’s Day to pure celebration status.  Paddleboarding at Lake Eola: Active Relaxation in Downtown Orlando  For the mom who likes to blend movement with relaxation, an excursion to Lake Eola Park is perfection. Nestled in downtown Orlando, the park is a leafy urban retreat with a postcard-perfect lake at its center. Rent a swan-shaped paddleboat or, for something more adventurous, try stand-up paddleboarding together—it’s easier than it looks and offers tranquil, scenic views as the city skyline reflects on the water.  Lake Eola bursts with life on weekends: you’ll see joggers, open-air yoga, performers near the amphitheater, and cute market stalls. There’s always a festive, local vibe—plus plenty of shady benches to relax and people-watch. Stop by Relax Grill for lakeside snacks or grab one of Too Much Sauce’s signature bowls for a quick, fresh lunch.  Finish your outing with a slow stroll through the flower gardens or check the schedule for the popular Farmers’ Market (held every Sunday). It’s a gentle way to stay active while soaking up the sunny Orlando atmosphere with the most important woman you know.  Park Avenue in Winter Park: Shopping, Strolling, and Brunching in Style  A little north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park’s charming Park Avenue is loved by locals for good reason. Strolling beneath old oak trees draped with Spanish moss, mom can browse unique boutiques, galleries, and bookshops—all with an al fresco European flair.  The avenue is tailor-made for people-watching and window shopping, but the real draw is brunch. Settle in at Briarpatch for their legendary lemon ricotta pancakes (the line is always worth it), or try Prato’s wood-fired pizza and fresh salads in rustic-chic surroundings. Every menu offers special Mother’s Day options—think mimosa flights, decadent baked goods, and fluffy omelets bursting with flavor. Many restaurants have shaded patios, so your meal comes with the added bonus of stunning views of the avenue’s lush park gardens.  Don’t forget to duck into the Morse Museum for an art deco fix or treat yourselves to delectable macarons at Le Macaron. Between the boutique finds, sweet sips, and artful ambiance, Winter Park’s Park Avenue delivers a memorable, stylish and thoroughly relaxing Mother’s Day—proof that sometimes the best adventures are the simplest ones shared.    Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and discover brilliant birthdays in the city.  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! 
Young Boy in Aquarium Tunnel at SEA LIFE Orlando
Blog

Unmissable Free Fun Near SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando

Dive into Orlando’s top free experiences—all within reach of SEA LIFE Aquarium’s front doors!
Kennedy Space Center
Blog

Visiting The Kennedy Space Center

Visiting during a launch season is a truly memorable experience, though exhibits like Space Shuttle Atlantis are fascinating all year round. Astronaut encounters bring this otherworldly attraction to life.
Lindsay Eagan

Have a 5% discount, on us!

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