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
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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Orlando in September

Wondering what to do in Orlando? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! If you’ve never been to Florida, there's no better place to start! The entertainment capital of the South is packed with everything from world-famous theme parks and waterparks to fantastic shopping destinations and museums. The city is also home to many beautiful parks and wilderness reserves to be discovered. Come autumn time, the area has a lot of exciting activities and events, so be sure to check those out! So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best things to see and do in the area. Wherever your interests may lie, there’s sure to be something for you. Explore the Area In September, Orlando can get pretty hot, and well... humid. If you’re looking to get away from all of the heat, why not head over to the Orlando Museum of Art? Founded by a group of art enthusiasts in 1924, the institute works to bring seminal pieces to a broad audience. Upon entrance, visitors can view an impressive collection of over 2,400 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and more. These works span from the 18th to 20th century and come from a broad spectrum of acclaimed international artists. We recommend setting a good few hours aside for this one since there’s a lot to see here. Since Florida is known for its beautiful tropical weather, it only makes sense that the state is home to some of the best nature reserves just waiting to be explored. Part of Everglades National Park, the Disney Wilderness Preserve stands out for its entirely unique ecosystem. No, really – this habitat is the only one of its kind currently found on earth! A total nature lover’s haven, the park has over 1,000 species of plants and animals on-site. At the park, you can take scenic strolls or off-road buggy tours to learn more about the environment and the animals which thrive there. Just remember to wear your comfiest walking shoes! Find Fun Activities Looking for something a little different? Well, look no further than the Museum of Illusions! Breaking away from the typical museum experience, the institute offers a totally unique sensory experience where nothing is quite as it seems. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to explore over 50 immersive exhibits which play with motion, color, shape, and space to twist the mind. Fan favorites include kaleidoscopes and holograms and tilted and reverse rooms. Don't forget to bring your phone so you can capture some snapshots of the incredible exhibits! If you’re looking to get into the true Florida spirit, what better place to be than Repticon Kissimmee? Taking place in late September, this two-day reptile show is a total must for any animal lovers in the area. Held in over 50 cities and 20 states, the festival recognized as one of the biggest animal expos of its kind. At the event, you’ll be able to get up close with a wide array of exotic reptiles in a safe and considerate way. In addition, you can attend live seminars and demonstrations to learn more about the animals and the different habitats which they come from. As fun as it is engaging, the festival provides a totally one-of-a-kind experience to remember. Those who are travelling with family might be interested in the next item on our list. Spanning over 50 acres of gorgeous greenery, Harry P. Leu Gardens is an unmissable sight any time of the year. Standing out from other green spaces in the city, these tropical gardens showcase a wide array of exotic plants, thanks to founders Mr. And Mrs. Harry P. Leu, who scoured the world for unusual vegetation to bring back from their excursions. In early September, the park transforms into a magical forest with its Fairy Doors exhibition. At the event, you’re tasked to spot the beautiful wooden doors hidden around the park on some of the centuries-old trees. Bringing magic to life, this event would make the perfect family day trip. Relax! Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of September in Orlando is checking out the Lakeridge Wine and Cheese Festival. Now over 10 years old, the event celebrates local artisan vendors and outstanding winemakers on the beautiful grounds of their lush vineyard. Culinary offerings cover a wide variety of cuisines and can be meat and seafood-forward, though Lakeridge also offers many alternatives for those with special dietary requirements. Throughout the weekend, there are outdoor performances, activities, winery tours and wine tastings to be enjoyed. If the aim of the game is to spoil you, then the festival sure does its job. If you want to indulge your inner foodie, then Magical Dining might just be the festival for you! Running the whole way throughout the month, this event gives diners the opportunity to try out some local favorites at lowered prices. Living up to its name, the event offers delectable dishes across a wide array of cuisines from around the globe. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a quiet romantic date spot, or something a little more casual, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Explore the best that the city has to offer, with no holding back! Oh, and the best part? For every magical meal bought, $1, is donated to charity, so everyone benefits. Orlando is known as ‘’The City Beautiful’', and with good reason. Spend a day in the area, and it defies you not to fall in love with it. Fall is a fantastic time to visit since the crowds will have thinned out, whilst the weather will still be summery. The best things to do there run the gamut – it‘s just up to you to choose! Looking for great family day trips? Head the Museum of Illusions for the ultimate day of fun. Or, discover the city’s artsy side at the Orlando Museum of Art. If you’re an outdoorsy type, spend a day at the Disney Wilderness Preserve. Whatever your pleasure, the city provides a wide array of attractions, activities, and festivals to be enjoyed. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Downtown Florida
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Getting Around Orlando - How to Get Around Orlando for Tourists

Planning to spend some time exploring Orlando? We put together a go-to guide packed with information for getting around the city and beyond. Renting a car is recommended as it’s the most convenient option for getting around Orlando. Alternative options include public transportation, taxis, and hotel shuttle services. Many hotels located near I-Drive and other popular attractions offer free or inexpensive shuttles to attractions as well. What about if you're planning to visit lots of Orlando attractions? Be sure to check out the pass for Orlando by Go City® – the more you do, the more you save. By Car (Recommended) The easiest and most convenient way to get around Orlando is by car, as many of the city’s top attractions are spread out and require multiple transfers on public transportation. If you plan on driving, be sure to keep some cash on hand for tolls and consider investing in a good map (free area maps provided by attractions are not the most reliable). Or, bring a GPS with you and ensure you have downloaded relevant online maps on your phone. If you have access to a SunPass, EZ-Pass, I-Pass, or anything like that, we also recommend bringing it along for this trip. Tolls can be expensive and many areas have shifted to electronic-only tolling. By I-Ride Trolley in the International Drive Area If you plan to stay in the International Drive (also called I-Drive) area, consider purchasing a pass for the I-Ride Trolley which services lots of attractions in the area including SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and more. Single rides are available but require exact change. I-Ride Trolley stops include 6 theme parks, more than 200 restaurants, more than 485 shops and premium outlets, over 30,000 hotel rooms, and more. Visit iridetrolley.com for more information. By bus LYNX, Orlando’s comprehensive bus system can get visitors to most areas in Orlando and beyond, but it can be a hassle when it comes to trip planning and bus schedules. Their bus stops are marked with a pink bus or paw print sign and run every 15, 30, or 60 minutes depending on the route. Check their site for schedules and route maps. LYMMO, Orlando’s free downtown circulator bus service offers service throughout the immediate downtown Orlando area. Check their site for schedules and route maps. Keep in mind that most public transit services stop operating around midnight or earlier. By taxi or ride-share Taxis are typically available at major attractions and most hotels. However, most visitors find that renting a car is less expensive than relying on taxis. You might also opt to use a ride-share service like Lyft or Uber if you're only trying to get between a few places (or if you're going out for the evening and don't want to drive). Keep in mind that you'll need to download the app of your chosen service in advance. 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.
Casey Makovich
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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