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

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hawk in windermere
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Discover Windermere: Your Guide to Orlando’s Best Kept Secret

Where local charm meets lakeside beauty: explore Windermere!  So you’re staying in Orlando and looking for a quick escape from the excitement of theme parks, neon lights, and nonstop action. Where do Orlando natives go when they need a relaxing afternoon or a spot of scenic adventure? Head to Windermere—a picturesque town perched between glittering lakes, known for its leafy avenues, waterfront parks, storybook homes, and a sense of peace that feels miles away from the bustling city, even though it’s just a 20-minute drive away.  Windermere’s magic is all about small-town elegance blended with Florida’s unique outdoorsy spirit. From paddleboarding on Lake Down to snagging an espresso in a century-old general store, this is where you get to see a more authentic, local side of Central Florida. It's a gentle invitation to slow down, breathe deep, and soak up a slightly more sophisticated, laid-back kind of fun. Plus, you’re only a hop from Orlando’s world-famous experiences, so you can pair peaceful afternoons with epic attractions.  Ready to plan your perfect day in Windermere? Here’s what we love most:  Our top things to do in Windermere:  Stroll downtown Windermere's brick-lined streets  Paddle or kayak on the Butler Chain of Lakes  Experience The Orlando Eye for panoramic views  Enjoy a meal at Dixie Cream Café  Stroll through Windermere Farmers Market  Tee off at Isleworth Golf & Country Club  Explore Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve  Treat the family at Fun Spot America  Relax at Palmer Park and enjoy lakeside sunsets  Let’s dive into each experience and show you why Windermere is unmissable:  Stroll downtown Windermere's brick-lined streets  If you’ve been zipping between Orlando’s mega-attractions, Windermere’s historic downtown is a breath of fresh, oak-shaded air. Everything here feels just a bit slower in the nicest way possible. Flower baskets hang from lampposts, Southern-style front porches invite conversation, and the rhythm of life is set by coffee sipping, neighborly chats, and the occasional golf cart cruising by.  Start at the charming Town Hall, an old wooden building that looks like it belongs in a movie set. The walkable main drag, lined with vintage brick roads, is dotted with locally owned cafes, indie boutiques, and a general store that has stood for over a century. There’s an irresistible sense of nostalgia—a reminder of days before big-box retailers and traffic jams.  Wander without a goal and you’ll spot hidden gems: whimsical garden sculptures, cheerful window boxes, and even a secluded butterfly garden. On the weekends, there’s often live music drifting from the park, and the local bakery tempts with fresh cinnamon rolls. This is a place to pause, people-watch, and really appreciate the Florida sun filtering through century-old oaks. If you’re keen to see a slice of true Central Florida community, Windermere’s downtown will charm you.  Experience The Orlando Eye for panoramic city views  A quick jaunt from Windermere (and absolutely worth the side trip), The Orlando Eye towers above International Drive and serves up heart-stopping, 360-degree views from its climate-controlled capsules. We love how it gives you a whole new perspective on Central Florida—suddenly the world’s theme-park capital becomes a patchwork of sparkling lakes, leafy neighborhoods, and distant towers fading into swamps and forests beyond.  The Eye ride is smooth and surprisingly serene; you’ll spot the lakes of Windermere in one direction and the castles of Disney in another. On a clear day, you can even pick out rocket launches on the coast! The vibe here isn’t frenetic, despite the sky-high experience. Instead, it feels like the perfect family treat or a romantic backdrop for a sunset proposal.  In the base building below, you’ll find restaurants, a SEA LIFE Aquarium, and wax wonders at Madame Tussauds—all good options for a breezy afternoon if you want to mix a little excitement with your lakeside calm. Just remember: cameras at the ready—you’ll want to capture that Florida skyline from the clouds.  Enjoy a meal at Dixie Cream Café  Windermere’s culinary scene delivers plenty of options, but if you ask a local where they take out-of-towners, Dixie Cream Café will almost always top the list. Perched right in the heart of downtown, this spot boasts an inviting wraparound porch, cheerful staff, and Southern comfort food that’s equal parts classic and creative.  Breakfast here is something of a ritual. Dig into made-from-scratch biscuits piled high, fluffy omelets with garden-fresh veggies, and pancakes that arrive big enough for the table to share. The Southern Benedict—a twist on the classic featuring fried green tomatoes and a rich hollandaise—comes highly recommended. For lunch or brunch, locals love their pimento cheese grilled sandwich and the chicken and waffles, all washed down with sweet tea or locally roasted coffee.  Ambience-wise, Dixie Cream exudes that Southern hospitality you hope for: mismatched chairs, vintage knick-knacks, and family-style tables where laughter carries through the room. Weekends get busy, but there’s no rush—just settle in and plan your next Windermere adventure while enjoying the small-town, big-flavor magic.  Stroll through Windermere Farmers Market  Fresh fruit, local cheese, honey, and the friendly chatter of neighbors—that’s what you’ll find at Windermere Farmers Market every Friday morning in the heart of town. The market brings together the best of Central Florida’s fields, bakeries, and artisan producers, all under the shade of giant live oaks. Kids and dogs are welcome, and as you browse booths overflowing with strawberries or sunflowers, you’ll see why this market is such a community favorite.  Special touches abound: one week you’ll spot a local potter spinning a new vase, the next there’s live music or a food truck serving Cuban coffee. Highlights include just-picked blueberries, house-made jams and salsas, and fresh-baked croissants that sell out fast. It’s easy to eat your way through the market with samples, then pick up supplies for a lakefront picnic.  Visiting the market is about more than shopping—it’s a great way to meet locals, hear the latest updates, and feel a genuine sense of village life. Even if you’re just in town for a few days, you’ll find yourself welcomed like a regular.  Tee off at Isleworth Golf & Country Club  Love a spot of golf? You’ve landed in the right place. Isleworth Golf & Country Club is a nationally renowned course that attracts everyone from PGA champions to celebrity players—and for good reason! Designed by Arnold Palmer, its 18 holes wind through rolling woodland, lakes, and sculpted greens that challenge pros but welcome novices too.  This is not just a golf club, it’s a full lifestyle destination. Clubhouse facilities offer post-round cocktails overlooking the water, with menus boasting everything from chilled shrimp to perfectly prepped steaks. Service is attentive, the grounds pristine, and the pace as relaxed or competitive as you choose.  You may spot a few famous faces on the green—it’s known as the course of choice for Orlando’s professional athletes and has hosted numerous high-profile tournaments. Even if your handicap isn’t tour level, you’ll feel like royalty from the moment you drive through the immaculately landscaped gates. Reserve a tee time well in advance—demand is high, and the experience is unforgettable!  Explore Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve  Just east of downtown Windermere sits one of Central Florida’s true natural treasures—Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve. Here, trails meander for miles under old-growth trees, past marshes teeming with birds, and through butterfly gardens buzzing with color. Bring the family (including leashed pups), lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to reconnect with nature.  The preserve’s educational center is a bonus for anyone curious about Florida ecology or traveling with budding naturalists. Hands-on exhibits explain local habitats and highlight everything from resident owls to rare plants. Early risers are treated to a peaceful, shaded walk where you might spot deer, armadillos, and, if you’re lucky, an otter or two.  Trails loop past Lake Tibet, offering beautiful water views and a chance to spot herons and turtles basking in the sunshine. Picnic tables near the trailheads make it easy to pack a lunch and refuel. If the parks outside Orlando sometimes feel too crowded, Tibet-Butler is your chance to unwind and savor Florida as it was meant to be—wild, serene, and wonderfully green.  Relax at Palmer Park and enjoy lakeside sunsets  No visit to Windermere is complete without a stroll or a moment’s pause at Palmer Park. This beloved green space offers direct access to Lake Butler and frames one of Central Florida’s most spectacular sunset views. Locals gather here for picnics, riverside reading, dog walks, and the timeless pleasure of watching the sky turn a thousand shades of pink and gold.  The park’s vibe is inviting and sociable, but never crowded. Kids play under the trees as boats drift by, while joggers wind their way along the shore path. Benches line the water’s edge, so you’ll always find a perfect spot to sit with a coffee or an ice cream. Evening brings a soft hush and beautiful light that makes even everyday moments feel special.  If you’re a photographer or simply a fan of beautiful places, Palmer Park is the spot to end your Windermere adventure on a high note. Bring a blanket, a snack, or just your favorite people—and let time slow down as you watch the world fade into evening.    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or browse the city’s market scene.     Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
family enjoying their visit to the kennedy center
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Space Rockets or Upside Down Fun: Your Orlando Showdown Guide!

Orlando boasts more than theme park thrills—here, science takes center stage. If you’re looking for things to do beyond the usual, you’ll quickly discover two standouts: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and WonderWorks Orlando. At first glance, one launches you into outer space while the other flips the world upside down (literally—its building is hard to miss). But which is right for your crew? We’re putting both attractions head-to-head—from jaw-dropping exhibits and interactive experiences to the best bites nearby (and where to grab a celebratory cocktail afterwards). Ready to plan your next adventure? Let’s dive in.  The lowdown  Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex  Located on Merritt Island, about an hour’s drive from Orlando  Home to real NASA rockets, the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and astronaut training simulators  Meet an astronaut and explore launch pads used for real missions  IMAX 3D space movies and hands-on exhibits for curious minds  Epic Rocket Garden stroll among past launch vehicles  Offers behind-the-scenes tours, including the Apollo/Saturn V Center  WonderWorks Orlando  Found on International Drive in the heart of Orlando  Eye-catching upside-down building that’s impossible to miss  Packed with 100+ hands-on exhibits and illusions for all ages  Explore an indoor ropes course, laser tag, and the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show  Experiment with tornado winds, lie on a bed of nails, or build your own roller coaster  Family-friendly, air-conditioned fun—rain or shine  Sounds good, tell me more...  Okay, so which one is most impressive?  Both attractions drop jaws—but in completely unique ways. Kennedy Space Center wins sheer scale and historical awe. Towering rockets, real hardware from missions that made history, and the knowledge you’re exploring the grounds where astronauts walked before you—there’s a grandeur that you just can’t make up. It’s science with gravity (pun intended), packed with monumental achievements and a glimpse into humanity’s future beyond Earth.  WonderWorks, however, impresses through interactivity and energy. If you’re looking for a place bursting with hands-on learning and laughter, WonderWorks delivers. Navigating its themed zones feels like wandering through a playful science lab on steroids, where curiosity reigns. Every floor confounds explanation and rewards boldness. It’s impressive by being immersive and unpredictable.  Which one is more fun?  Fun can be found at both, yet it takes different forms. At the Kennedy Space Center, fun comes from immersive simulators, spellbinding storytelling from real-life astronauts, and the thrill of being close to genuine space tech. Launch countdown clocks, moon rock samples, and intricate exhibits turn even the most reluctant learner into a rocket scientist for a day.  Meanwhile, WonderWorks approaches fun with the volume cranked up. Race against laser beams, try to conquer the ropes course, or hop inside a hurricane simulator. Everything is designed for giggles, shrieks, and nonstop discoveries. Kids and adults alike find themselves giggling as they lie back on a bed of nails or try their hand at the bubble lab.  Which is more beautiful?  Beauty at Kennedy Space Center comes from its vast outdoor spaces, where gleaming rocket silos, wide launchpads, and natural Florida coastline mingle. The Rocket Garden is pure nostalgia, especially at sunrise or sunset with pastel skies as the backdrop. Walking through the Saturn V Center beneath the 363-foot-long rocket, surrounded by history, is iconic in itself.  WonderWorks glows in its own way. Neon lights, quirky displays, and interactive art sculptures turn the indoors into a burst of sensory excitement. Its upside-down architecture sets the stage for offbeat photo ops. But if you’re after those classic, natural vistas, Kennedy’s open sky wins the peaceful beauty contest; WonderWorks is for a different, “so-cool-I-have-to-take-a-picture” aesthetic.  Which has the better view?  Hands-down, Kennedy Space Center delivers when it comes to earth-shattering views. You can see actual launch pads, peer across the wild landscape of Merritt Island, and even watch a rocket launch if your timing’s right. The observation platforms look out across the NASA campus, and ocean breezes sweep in—just add binoculars.  WonderWorks, meanwhile, is all about indoor sights and sound—a kaleidoscope of colors, crazy installations, and creative illusion displays. You’re not coming here for sweeping vistas, but for eye-popping inventiveness.  How do I get there?  Kennedy Space Center:  By Car: About a 50-minute drive from Orlando, take FL-528 (the Beachline Expressway) east to Kennedy Pkwy.  Public Transit: Take the Greyhound bus from Orlando to Titusville, then rideshare or taxi for the final 20 minutes. Not the quickest, but it’s an option for car-free explorers.  Tours: Many Orlando hotels and travel companies run day tours with transport included; perfect if you’re skipping car rental.  WonderWorks Orlando:  By Car: Located at 9067 International Drive, parking in the lot behind the building is easy and affordable.  Public Transit: Hop on the I-RIDE Trolley (Red Line), Lynx Bus 8, or various hotel shuttles along International Drive—the area’s transportation options are plentiful and convenient.  On Foot: If your hotel is on I-Drive, walk right up to WonderWorks’ upside-down entrance.  Best choice for families, couples or friends  Families: Both attractions are a dream, but WonderWorks scores for families with energetic or younger kids. The sheer range of hands-on activities keeps little ones busy for hours. That said, Kennedy Space Center offers the kind of inspiration that can kickstart a lifelong love of science (and budding astronauts will be in their element).  Couples: For awe-inspiring date days, Kennedy Space Center ticks every romantic box—especially if you stargaze together or watch a launch. WonderWorks is perfect for couples seeking laughs and teamwork on the ropes course, especially those who thrive on a bit of challenge together.  Friends: Group of friends? WonderWorks equals riotous competition and goofy shared moments. Try the laser tag or dinner show together for laughs. Kennedy Space Center suits space fans who want to nerd out on shared interests, or just take in some futuristic cool together.  I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities?  WonderWorks wins the hands-on battle. It’s built for touch, play, and try-it-yourself exploration—think hundreds of interactive gadgets, games, experiments, and high-energy zones. It’s physical and playful, perfect for curious minds and energetic bodies.  Kennedy Space Center has its interactive sides too (astronaut simulators, touch-the-moon-rock exhibits, Shuttle Launch Experience), but the overall pace is a little more structured. If you’re chasing chaos and excitement, choose WonderWorks; for thoughtful, awe-inspiring interaction, Kennedy Space Center still stands tall.  What’s the accessibility like?  Both attractions are equipped for most visitors:  Kennedy Space Center: Fully wheelchair accessible, with rental options. Tram tours accommodate mobility needs, hearing loops assist the hearing impaired, and guide dog-friendly policies are in place.  WonderWorks: ADA-compliant with elevators and ramps throughout. Wheelchairs welcome, and most exhibit stations designed for all abilities. Only the ropes course calls for extra requirements (minimum height and closed-toed shoes).  For those needing extra support, both sites deliver friendly, accommodating service—just ring ahead for specific needs and suggestions.  Best lunch spots nearby?  Kennedy Space Center:  Moon Rock Cafe: Inside the Apollo/Saturn V Center, classic American fare with views of the mighty Saturn V rocket. Order the burgers or the classic chicken tenders for that satisfying, kid-approved energy kick.  Orbit Cafe: Fast food with space-themed options—plant-based Impossible Burgers and pressed Cuban sandwiches get big thumbs up.  Shilohs Steak & Seafood: Just outside the KSC property in Titusville, locals love this spot for fried shrimp and riverside views of NASA’s launchpads.  WonderWorks Orlando:  Buffalo Wild Wings: Next door, this is a lively sports bar for wings, burgers, and beers in a fun, family-friendly setting.  Café Tu Tu Tango: A short walk away, this colorful spot serves up small plates and theatrical flair. Their roasted chimichurri steak and sangria are crowd-pleasers.  Maggiano’s Little Italy: Classic Italian with heaping portion sizes, cozy booths, and standout lasagna.  ICON Park: Nearby, a food lover's paradise with everything from Spanish tapas at Tapa Toro to fish and chips at Shake Shack, and the Tin Roof for Southern comfort in a live music setting.  Looking for a snack? International Drive’s street food stalls dish up everything from churros to bao buns—perfect for a quick refuel between activities.  Where are the best photo opportunities?  Kennedy Space Center:  Rocket Garden: Line up your shot just after sunrise or before sunset for glowing rockets against soft skies.  Space Shuttle Atlantis: The ultimate “look, I went to space camp!” selfie.  Apollo/Saturn V Center: Stand beneath the massive Saturn V rocket—photos here practically take themselves.  Launch Pad Views: If there's a launch scheduled, photographers line up early along the riverside observation decks for prime views.  WonderWorks Orlando:  Front Entrance: Snap the upside-down building from the sidewalk—pure “what-the-heck?” social media gold.  Inversion Tunnel: Capture your entrance face for a fun before-and-after effect.  Wonder Zones: Inside, grab photos while suspended on the ropes course or conquering the bed of nails or bubble lab.  Tip: Afternoons mean smaller crowds at both, perfect for shots without photobombs. Bring a wide-angle lens for Kennedy; charge up your phone for WonderWorks’ colored lighting.  We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area?  Near Kennedy Space Center:  Playalinda Brewing Company: Try the well-balanced Key Lime Slice (a Florida classic) or Splash Down Belgian. Laid-back, with NASA paraphernalia on the walls and locals swapping rocket stories.  Shilohs Steak & Seafood: Snag their house sangria or a cold local IPA on the deck, staring across the Indian River towards NASA’s launch pads.  Near WonderWorks Orlando:  The Hampton Social: Light-filled, coastal-chic vibes and their signature “frosé” (frozen rosé), plus live music on weekends.  The Pub Orlando: Classic British watering hole with pints and pub grub—try the Black Velvet (half stout, half cider) for something different.  Tin Roof at ICON Park: An easy stroll, live music, easy-going atmosphere, and specialty cocktails like the Southern Mule (bourbon and ginger beer).  Budget tip: Hotel bars on I-Drive like Rosen Centre’s Everglades Bar serve solid cocktails at wallet-friendly prices.  Any other good stuff nearby?  Kennedy Space Center Area:  Canaveral National Seashore: Free natural beauty. Head here after your visit for wild beaches, sea turtles, and untouched Florida coastline.  Space View Park: Titusville’s riverfront park themed around spaceflight—come for rocket launche watch parties and walkway tributes to space pioneers.  American Space Museum (Titusville): Want more? Interactive space exhibits with local artifacts, just a short drive away.  WonderWorks Area:  ICON Park: The Wheel (Orlando’s observation wheel) gives you sky-high views and Insta-worthy scenery.  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: For more hands-on exploration (and air conditioning), seeing the sharks and rays up close can’t be beat.  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Waxworks shenanigans—who knows which famous faces you’ll spot.  Pointe Orlando: Upmarket shopping, state-of-the-art movie theaters, and nightly entertainment all within walking distance.  Pro tip: I-Drive’s pedestrian walkways and public art are perfect for a quick, free photo stroll in between attractions!    Both Kennedy Space Center and WonderWorks offer experiences that sparkle with creativity, knowledge, and sheer fun. With Go City, you get to skip the hassle and save money while ticking off Orlando’s top spots. Why pick just one? Spacewalk your way to Kennedy, then wind down with some upside-down, hands-on hijinks at WonderWorks—your trip will be truly out of this world!    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, 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! 
Kennedy Space Center
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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

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