Orlando alternatives

10+ Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

These amusement park alternatives will throw you for a loop...

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.

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

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

Kennedy Space Center

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

Museum of Illusions

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

Gatorland: The Alligator Capital of the World

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

WonderWorks

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

Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show

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

Congo River Adventure Golf

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

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tours

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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Visiting LEGOLAND® Florida Resort - Discount Admission, Tips & More

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven, just 45 minutes from Orlando and Tampa, is a multi-day vacation destination designed for children 2-12 years old. This super popular resort includes an interactive, 150-acre theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, a world-famous botanical garden and the 5-acre LEGOLAND Water Park. You'll also find the LEGOLAND Hotel, located just steps from the theme park entrance. This unique lodging option features 152 rooms and suites, each with its own LEGO® theme and some with beautiful views of nearby Lake Eloise. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, packed full of tips for visiting, ways to save on admission, other nearby attractions, and much more. How to get LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – LEGOLAND® Florida Resort admission is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. See all available Orlando passes, attractions & prices. Families with kids won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore all that LEGOLAND Florida Resort has to offer. Tips for Visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort Be sure to download the Quest to LEGOLAND® app, the brand new GPS adventure game from LEGOLAND Florida Resort. It offers games and trivia for kids as you travel towards the park. If you are visiting with older teens, be aware that this theme park is geared more towards kids between the ages of 3 – 10 (although anyone with a passion for LEGOs will get a kick out of the building activities). Parking at LEGOLAND Florida Resort is $17, but you can save $2 if you purchase parking in advance online. Scope out the park map before you visit to plan your itinerary. Save money on admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort with your pass! If you’re traveling with large bags or other items, lockers are available for rental. Because the park is geared towards children, there are a number of height requirements you should take into consideration before deciding what rides to see. Given that scattered thunderstorms are common in Central Florida, save some indoor attractions or shopping time for the inevitable afternoon rain. If you have really small children, bring your own stroller to avoid paying the rental fee. Small snacks and water can be brought into the park; other food items can be easily purchased once inside. When is the best time to visit LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Like most theme parks, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will be busiest in the heart of the afternoon. Arrive early in the morning and miss out on the longest lines for the first part of your day. What to bring to LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Comfortable shoes. You'll be walking quite a bit around this sizable park. Sunblock and a hat. Florida is notorious for giving people sunburn even on cloudy days. A bathing suit, for the water park. Trust us -- you'll end up getting soaked even if you don't go on rides with the kids. A camera or phone. You'll want to capture the looks of complete and utter joy on your kids' faces. Money for souvenirs and lunch. There are plenty of places in the park to shop and dine. Minifigures! You can exchange them at the park for a new and exciting minifigure. What is there to do at LEGOLAND Florida Resort? The wonders are endless at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, but here is a selection of our favorite rides and attractions in the park. Be sure to check out LEGO NINJAGO World and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat too. LEGO® NINJAGO® World LEGO NINJAGO World is a hot new component of LEGOLAND. Kids are invited to enter a magical martial arts kingdom where you become the ninja in your very own LEGO®NINJAGO® [NIN-JAH-GO] adventure. LEGO NINJAGO World is an immersive area filled with several hands-on, outdoor activities where kids can sharpen their ninja skills before the ultimate showdown on LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, a dazzling new attraction that blends 3D computer animation, “4D” effects and groundbreaking technology never seen outside a LEGOLAND theme park. LEGOLAND Beach Retreat Designed with the same attention to detail and kid-centric features that made LEGOLAND Hotel an immediate hit, LEGOLAND Beach Retreat is a village-style vacation resort with 83 beach-themed bungalows offering 166 separate rooms, each with whimsical LEGO décor inside and out. The brightly colored bungalows are grouped into 13 “coves” named after popular LEGO Minifigures. Each includes an outdoor play area with fun and challenging elements, all within view of the bungalows’ shaded patios, where mom and dad can relax while kids play. Located about a half-mile from the theme park entrance, the site also features a central swimming pool and sandy play area, a buffet restaurant, pool bar, a giant LEGO-inspired lighthouse with a real rotating beacon and picturesque views of Lake Dexter. LEGO World of Chima Based upon the immensely popular line of toys presented by Cartoon Network, the World of Chima is filled with tons of great rides and experiences. Splash through an interactive water ride with the whole family, undertake the monumental Quest for CHI, race through SpeedzorzTM Arena, roam through Cragger’s Swamp, and immerse yourself in a 4-D movie experience. Miniland USA Adults and kids alike will get a kick out of this exhibit, which contains scale replicas of famous cities, buildings, and monuments from around the country. Featured local attractions in this Miniland include Daytona International Speedway and the Kennedy Space Center, as well as an homage to the state of Florida. You'll also see Miniland construction imitating New York City, California, Las Vegas, and more. Here is also where you'll find the LEGO Star Wars exhibits! DUPLO® Valley This area is specially designed for the littlest of guests, featuring a train, a mini tractor ride, and a water play area. Toddlers will also enjoy a DUPLO Farm and the DUPLO Tot Spot. There’s even a snack center and daycare in here. LEGO Kingdoms LEGO Kingdoms will bring you back in time to the medieval era when knights roamed the earth fighting dragons and saving damsels in distress. Explore the LEGOLAND castle, engage in the Royal Joust, crawl into the Forestman’s Hideout, be thrilled on the Dragon Coaster, and climb aboard the Merlin’s Challenge train. Land of Adventure Explore long-lost tombs and search for treasure in the Land of Adventure. Then, hop aboard the Safari Trek for a tour of life-size LEGO animals. Roam the maze in Pharaoh’s Revenge, and launch high into the air on the Beetle Bounce. There’s no end to the excitement in this part of the park. Imagination Zone This region of the park really brings out the creativity and ingenuity in kids. Kids can build their own LEGO cars, construct and program LEGO MindstormsTM robots, and immerse themselves in the world of LEGO’s Hero Factory line. Plus, you can see some of the best LEGO sculptures in the world here! Pirate’s Cove Who doesn’t love a good splash fight? LEGOLAND’s Pirate’s Cove features a one-of-a-kind water ski and stunt show in which LEGO-clad pirates have taken over Lake Eloise. LEGO City Kids can play at being an adult in the LEGO City, without any of the downsides! Be a firefighter or policeman and save the day at the Rescue Academy. Hop aboard a small-scale driving course, fly through the air on a steel coaster in the Flying School, and captain your own ship in the Boating School. Heartlake City One of the newer regions of the park, Heartlake City is an area designed especially for the female LEGO fans in the family. Based on the popular LEGO Friends line, this destination is filled with fun adventures for kids of all ages. Enjoy a horse-themed disc coaster on Mia’s Riding Adventure, take a photo at Stephanie’s Heartlake News Desk, and explore specialty shops. Botanical Gardens One of my personal favorite areas of LEGOLAND is the Botanical Gardens. Here you'll find a historical garden filled with cypress trees and other native plants. It's been restored to its original glory and re-imagined as a resource for curious kids looking to learn about the environment around them in Florida. You'll also find lush flowers like camellias, azaleas, and more. There's even a tree that was planted in 1939, a Banyan tree that still watches over the garden. What attractions are near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Because LEGOLAND Florida Resort is centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, there are a number of attractions within driving distance if you want to fit a morning at LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a larger itinerary. Here are a few of the closest. Little kids will love a visit to the charming Green Meadows Petting Farm, a great interactive zoo-like experience. Nature-lovers won’t want to miss out on a scenic nature tour by Boggy Creek Airboats. Looking for more theme park rides? Check out Fun Spot America for some great attractions and rides. How much more Florida can you get than the famous Gatorland? Pay a visit to this unique adventure park for the experience of a lifetime. Looking for more information about the area? Check out our Orlando neighborhoods guide. What attractions are near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Because LEGOLAND Florida Resort is centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, there are a number of attractions within driving distance if you want to fit a morning at LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a larger itinerary. Here are a few of the closest. Little kids will love a visit to the charming Green Meadows Petting Farm, a great interactive zoo-like experience. Nature-lovers won’t want to miss out on a scenic nature tour by Boggy Creek Airboats. Looking for more theme park rides? Check out Fun Spot America for some great attractions and rides. How much more Florida can you get than the famous Gatorland? Pay a visit to this unique adventure park for the experience of a lifetime. Looking for more information about the area? Check out our Orlando neighborhoods guide. What is there to eat near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Given the scope of the park and the fact that you’ll probably spend an entire day there, it makes the most sense to eat in the park. Here’s a selection of the kinds of dining options available at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The Market Restaurant is open the entire time the park is, and serves healthy options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including gluten free and vegetarian fare. If you’re in the mood for a treat, check out Granny’s Apple Fries for delicious things. Trying to please picky eaters? Then head to the Pizza and Pasta Buffet for some good old-fashioned carbs. There’s even a salad bar for the health-conscious. Another dessert option is Sunny’s Ice Cream Shop – perfect for hot summer afternoons. If the kids loved the Land of Adventure, treat them to a dinner at Castle Burger. Who says no to fried chicken? No one at Fried Chicken Co. Looking for a sandwich option? Try I-Zone Paninis or Lakeside Sandwich Co. Need to Know Hours Hours vary seasonally; check the operating calendar for the dates of your visit. Address & Directions One LEGOLAND Way Winter Haven, FL 33884 Driving Directions: From Orlando, take I-4 WEST to exit 55 (US Highway 27 South). Turn right off U.S. Highway 27 at State Road 540/Cypress Gardens Boulevard. Park is four miles on the left. Public Transportation: Round trip transportation from the I-Drive 360 at 8350 Universal Blvd, Orlando 32819. Note: Shuttle service is by reservation only and reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Call (877) 350-5346 and hit * to make a reservation. Save on Admission with Go City® Remember, a pass for Orlando with Go City® is one of the best choices for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes LEGOLAND® Florida Resort tickets, plus admission to dozens more top attractions. You'll make great savings on top sightseeing tours, and popular activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price. Families with kids won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore all that LEGOLAND Florida Resort has to offer.
Katie Sagal
Blog

Orlando Memorial Day Weekend 2020 - Fun Things to Do in May

Spending Memorial Day Weekend in the central Florida area? There are lots of fun activities to enjoy this holiday weekend. Whether you're all about theme park thrills or prefer to take in scenic vistas, there's something for everyone to love in Orlando. If you’re looking for Orlando Memorial Day Weekend 2020 ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Orlando in May, including... Visit the exciting I-Drive 360 Complex Explore Lake Eola Park Take a trip to the Kennedy Space Center Check out the animals living in the Everglades Visit Lion Country Safari and more... Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Orlando pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Orlando attractions & activities and save up to 50% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Orlando attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special May and Memorial Day weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Orlando pass. Head to a Theme Park LEGOLAND Florida Another top theme park option is LEGOLAND® Florida. This 150-acre park is filled with attractions that are just perfect for kids 12 and under. Your kids can go on over 50 rides, see a show, and explore the Miniland cities in Miniland USA. Don't forget to visit LEGO Heartlake City, where you can meet new friends and play around with the whole gang. Then, there's the "LEGO Movie 4D: A New Adventure," which allows fans to continue their love for the LEGO Movie. Getting In: LEGOLAND Florida tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass. The I-Drive 360 Entertainment Complex Visit Kennedy Space Center Lion Country Safari Explore Central Florida Everglades Tour Winter Park One of the most beautiful suburbs of Orlando is Winter Park, a city filled with indie shops, tasty restaurants, delightful gardens, and lovely architecture. In addition to popping in a few local businesses, why not take a boat tour of Winter Park's peaceful canals and lakes? It's a great way to spend a relaxing hour. Getting In: Winter Park Boat Tour tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass. Explore Lake Eola Park Stroll the Beaches Whether you want to head all the way to New Smyrna or Cocoa Beach, or feel like exploring the tiny but delightful Winter Park Beach, there are fabulous beach options to fulfill your Memorial Day summer dreams. Get to the beach early to get a great spot, grab a towel and you're pretty much set to go! Getting In: Beach admission is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Orlando pass. For more information, please visit the website of your chosen beach. Remember to Save on Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Orlando in May to help you plan your Memorial Day weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Orlando pass, where you can save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!
Katie Sagal

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