Relaxing Things to do in Orlando

Published: July 18, 2024

Orlando can most certainly be a lot of fun, but what do you do when you need a break from all the chaos? Well, that’s what we’re here for! As one of the most popular tourist destinations within the United States, the city is often recognized for its famous amusement parks. Still, the area has just as much to offer for those who want to relax. For nature lovers and those who like to stay active, the area’s beautiful green spaces are an absolute must-visit. If you’re a culture vulture, be sure to check out some of the fantastic museums in the city. And for artsy types, there’s no better place to be than the Orlando Theatre. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, follow our guide to the best relaxing things to check out in Orlando during your stay. Whatever you decide to do, we’re sure it’ll be great!

Find Fun Activities

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If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, look no further than the Disney Wilderness Preserve. In a city with so much buzz, this quiet and serene oasis is the perfect place to appreciate mother nature in all its glory. Situated on the Everglades National Park, the preserve offers the special chance to view a completely unique ecosystem not currently found anywhere else on the planet. Walking along the trails, you’ll be able to view over 1,000 plants and animals all prospering together. Whether you’re looking to take a quiet moment of contemplation or just soak up the natural wonders of Orlando, this hidden gem should rank at the very top of your itinerary!

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When it comes to relaxing things to do in Orlando, we love nothing more than a visit to the park. Thankfully, the city has much to offer in the realm of open spaces, with Lake Eola Park being one of our favorites. Located right in the center of downtown Orlando, this peaceful expanse has long been a popular draw for locals and visitors alike. Offering plenty of space and fresh air, this beloved urban landscape is a fantastic respite from the city, with beautiful flower beds and spectacular views of the Orlando skyline. For the perfect afternoon out, take time to feed the swans or enjoy a pedal-powered boat ride across the gleaming waters of the lake. What more could we possibly ask for?

Get Cultured

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If your ideal relaxing day out is a trip to the museum – don't worry, we’ve got you covered. The perfect stop for all artsy types, the Orlando Museum of Art seeks to preserve, present, and interpret art for a wide audience. In its impressive collection, the museum holds over 2,400 objects including Contemporary Art, American Art, and that of the Ancient Americas. Walking through the institution, you’ll be able to view everything from fine art and modern sculpture to classical paintings and more. In the past, the gallery has premiered artists such as Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Georgia O’Keeffe. Well curated and displayed with much to see, this place is well worth the trip.

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For some downtime in the evening, why not check out the Orlando Theatre? Over its many years of operation, this place has stood the test of time by providing world-class entertainment to the community. If you’re looking to catch a line-up of theater productions, such as plays, comedy, and music, you couldn’t be anywhere better. Here, you’ll be able to find everything from fantastic dramas and side-splitting stand-ups to animated musicals and concerts, all under one roof. The theater has been host to many famous performers in the past, including Paul McCartney, Elton John and Kevin Hart. A total hub of entertainment and culture, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend an evening out in the city.

Try Something New

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When visiting a new area, there’s no better way to explore the local culture than through its markets. Open early every Saturday morning on the busy streets of Orlando, the Winter Park Farmers’ Market is the perfect place to soak up the sun. We love this spot for its outstanding selection of fruit and vegetables. Still, the real attraction here is the market’s wide variety of food vendors, made fresh as you go. Each week, the crowds queue up for chicken pot pies, Jamaican patties, freshly popped kettle corn, and Kombucha. In addition, you can browse the stalls for locally produced honey and cheeses as well as jewellery and original art. Whether you just want to grab a quick bite, or maybe get to know the city a little bit better, this place provides the perfect relaxing cultural experience.

Grab your punnets and don’t forget your sunscreen for the next item on our list. Orlando is well-recognized for its beautiful weather, and with that of course comes some wonderful fruit farms to be enjoyed. Quintessentially Florida and totally idyllic, the Showcase of Citrus is probably one of the more unique ways to take a breath. Situated just downtown from the city, this large working orchard covers over 2, 500 acres of land and over 50 varieties of citrus to be enjoyed. Standing out from other outdoorsy attractions in the city, this place welcomes visitors onto its premises to pick their own fruit and admire the beautiful scenery. We love this place because it truly encapsulates the nature of Orlando.

The theme parks. The crowds. The heat. All this craziness can make Orlando seem like a stressful vacation spot, but we promise you that there is refuge amidst the hustle and bustle. The City Beautiful showcases a wonderful blend of outdoorsy attractions and urban places of interest, – from its wonderful viewing world-class pieces at the Orlando Museum of Art to walking the trails at the Disney Wilderness Preserve, you’ll never run out of calming things to do in the area. Whether you’re a foodie, a creative type, or just looking to take in the city, you’re certain to find something to suit your tastes. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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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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Things to do in International Drive Orlando

Vibrant and bustling with life, Orlando is known as one of America’s top tourist destinations. If it's your first visit to the city, you’re likely to be staying in International Drive. Luckily for you, this exciting entertainment district at the heart of the city’s tourism area will leave you spoiled for choice. The area presents a myriad of exciting family-friendly experiences including Fun Spot America and Icon Park to keep you busy. With hundreds of bars and restaurants across the board, an evening out at I-Drive is a blast. And as a major plus, you’ll be just a stone's throw away from all of the best theme parks. We’ve spent a lot of time in the area and are sharing our favorite things to do here. Let’s dive in! Hit the Classics Of course, a vacation to Orlando is all about the theme parks. Living up to its namesake, Fun Spot America provides a great day out for adults and children alike. Whether you’re a thrillseeker or prefer something a little bit tamer, this place has it all. Setting itself apart from other iconic parks in the city, Fun Spot America works to offer a fantastic slice of Old Florida. Walking around the park, you’ll be able to enjoy old school carnival rides including a Ferris wheel, a carousel and bumper cars. The park is entirely admission-free, and you can choose to pay for only the rides you choose to go on, making it great value for money. Creating fun and making memories since 1979, this place is a quintessential Orlando classic well worth the visit. Now, some say you can’t have it all, but I-Drive’s walkable entertainment district Icon Park will make you feel just the opposite. Offering everything from exciting family-friendly activities and great shopping opportunities to top-notch eateries and vibrant nightlife options, this all-around energetic attraction has a little something for everybody. When making a stop here, it’s absolutely essential to ride the Orlando Eye, and the Orlando Starflyer, the world’s tallest swing ride. Afterwards, head for dinner at one of the park's fantastic restaurants (you’ll have plenty to choose from since there are over 40 of them!), or browse the stores for souvenirs for your loved ones. Or, after dark, check out the bars and live music shows in the area. With its buzzing atmosphere that remains unmatched, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Orlando. Find Interesting Activities Make it a day to remember and visit all of your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds. Named after the prolific wax worker Marie Tussaud, this leading Orlando attraction has famous figures from the worlds of film, music, sport and history, all under one roof. A total Instagrammer’s paradise, the institute offers over 60 immersive exhibitions to be explored. Unbelievably accurate and detailed, these crazy life-size replicas are a total sight to behold. Even up close, the waxworks are sure to play a number on you – you'll never quite be sure that they’re not the real deal. Get up close with the likes of Taylor Swift, Ryan Reynolds, or Angelina Jolie. Surreal, quirky, and a whole lot of fun, consider this a great place for a family day trip. Don’t forget to bring a camera so you can capture the magic! As Orlando’s main tourist strip, I-Drive is bursting with interesting things to do that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Offering a poignant look at the famous shipwreck, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition truly brings history to life for a broad audience. Taking guests on a fascinating trip through time, the museum showcases over 300 artefacts that have been recovered from the very bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. Tours are led by actors dressed in period costumes of the time to depict actual passengers. With numerous galleries and interactive exhibits to explore, the institute offers a closer look into what happened on April 15th 1912. Have a Blast If you’re looking for something a little different, look no further than Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Founded by famous cartoonist Robert Ripley, this one-of-a-kind museum showcases oddities, curiosities and artefacts from around the globe. Built into an off-level structure that appears to be falling into a sinkhole, this kooky odditorium houses over 16 galleries and hundreds of displays which are sure to amaze. Walking through the museum, you’ll get to see peculiarities including a genuine shrunken head, a two-headed calf, and one of the world’s only vampire killing kits. From the strange and the beautiful to the weird and the wonderful, this place has it covered. A little bit kitschy and a whole lot of fun, we love this stop because it embraces a whole other world of crazy we never knew was possible. Sometimes, the Orlando heat can get a little much for some people (Okay, fine - most people). But don’t fear! We’ve found the answer – and yup, you guessed it, it’s right in the center of International Drive. For those looking to cool off, CoCo Key Water Resort is the perfect place to make a splash. Whether you want a high-powered adrenaline rush, or something a little more low-key, you’re sure to find something to suit you. With fourteen rides to try, the fun never stops coming here. For those who prefer to play it cool, there’s a relaxing pool and bar area away from all of the buzz. In addition, CoCo Key has a large arcade with over 50 games to try out. For fun-filled family adventure, we couldn’t think of a better spot. A total epicenter of fun and excitement, International Drive is an attractive tourist destination for all types of visitors. Drawing in millions of people each year, the city’s major tourist corridor knows how to help you have a good time. The best things to do in I-Drive run the gamut – from free spectacles to fantastic thrill rides, you’ll never be bored here. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Your Dream Sunday: Orlando’s Top Experiences Revealed

Orlando transforms every Sunday into a playground packed with possibilities. Whether you crave a splash of thrill, creative museum stops, or lazy brunches in the sun, this city rolls out an endless buffet of entertainment that keeps the weekend spirit alive until the very last minute. While theme parks may top every traveler’s list, a Sunday here offers so much more: wildlife encounters, sky-high views, quirky museums, waterfront adventures, and, of course, eats you’ll crave long after you’ve left Florida. So, loosen up that itinerary and put on your adventure hat—we’re diving into Orlando’s best Sunday picks to spark your imagination, keep the kids happy, and help you discover a whole new side of the City Beautiful.  Our favorite ways to spend Sunday in Orlando include:  Kennedy Space Center  The Orlando Eye  Gatorland  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Madame Tussauds Orlando  Museum of Illusions  Brunch at The Glass Knife  Sunday stroll at Lake Eola Park  Shopping and flavors at East End Market  Island H2O Water Park  Kennedy Space Center: A Sunday Out of This World  You don’t have to reach for the stars when the stars come to you! The Kennedy Space Center, just under an hour from downtown Orlando, delivers one of Florida’s most jaw-dropping experiences. Sundays here mean smaller crowds and a laid-back pace—perfect for soaking up all that space magic.  Step into a place where rockets, heroes, and legends feel bigger than life. Gaze up at an actual Saturn V rocket, touch a piece of the moon, and then test your astronaut skills in thrilling simulators. Interactive exhibits walk you through NASA’s missions, from Mercury to Artemis, with hands-on fun for adults and kids alike. The Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, suspended as if in flight, leaves even hard-to-impress teens wide-eyed—especially after a ride on the launch simulator.  Beyond the tech, Kennedy Space Center pulses with human stories: stroll the Astronaut Hall of Fame, listen to real-life launch countdowns, and relive the drama of spaceflight through immersive multimedia. The rocket garden is a tranquil spot for a midday snack before scouting out the iconic launch pads (you might even catch a rocket launch if the timing’s right!).  You’ll leave full of awe, fresh inspiration, and nerdy photos to share. This is a Sunday well spent—history, science, and a dash of stardust, all in one place.  Gatorland: A Wild Sunday Adventure  For a dash of real Florida wild, Gatorland brings an unforgettable twist to your Orlando Sunday. This legendary wildlife park has been charming visitors for over 70 years and remains a top pick thanks to its welcoming vibe and jaw-dropping animal encounters.  Here you’ll find alligators—lots and lots of alligators! But don’t worry, there’s a whole world beyond those toothy grins. Marvel at rare white gators, cheer for the star wrestling alligator demonstration (safe, silly, cheesy fun), and walk narrow boardwalks above swamps teeming with turtles, birds, and, of course, more gators.  The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line adds a burst of adrenaline as you zoom over pools of churning reptiles. Little ones can splash in Gator Gully, an interactive water playground, or feed goats and birds in the petting zoo area. Don’t skip the up-close meet-and-greets with snakes or the famously toothy “baby gators.”  What sets Gatorland apart is the friendly staff, the surprisingly beautiful surroundings, and a pace that invites you to linger, learn, and smile. Pick up some quirky souvenirs, snap a photo inside the massive gator mouth entrance, and leave feeling like you’ve seen a slice of “Old Florida” at its very best.  SEA LIFE Aquarium: Underwater Wonders and Playful Encounters  Sunday should always include a dash of wonder, right? The SEA LIFE Aquarium at ICON Park fits the bill perfectly. Under one roof, you’ll come face-to-fin with sharks, sea turtles, rays, and a rainbow of tropical fish—all with a uniquely immersive twist.  What makes SEA LIFE so fun? Start with the 360-degree underwater tunnel: as you stroll through, sharks and stingrays float above and beside you, while the gentle sway of jellyfish feels almost hypnotic. Kids love the interactive touch pools, where curious fingers can meet sea stars and anemones under the guidance of friendly experts.  Throughout the day, you’ll find scheduled talks and feedings—don’t miss the penguin feeding or seahorse nursery, both guaranteed to charm visitors of all ages. SEA LIFE’s stroll-at-your-own-pace format makes it excellent for family groups, date day adventures, or simply a quiet escape from the heat and crowds outside.  And when your oceanic explorations wrap up, step right back into ICON Park’s endless food and entertainment options, perfect for whatever the rest of your Sunday calls for.  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Snap a Selfie With the Stars  Why just observe celebrities on TV when you can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them? Madame Tussauds in Orlando delivers more laughs, more unexpected selfies, and more TikTok-worthy moments than you can imagine—especially on a laid-back Sunday when you have time to play.  Inside, it’s part museum, part game, part photo shoot. Every waxwork feels wonderfully lifelike, letting you pose with sports icons, movie legends, political leaders, and pop stars (who knew Einstein could rock a selfie stick?). The themed sets—complete with props and dramatic lighting—turn every room into a new adventure. Challenge your friends to a dance-off with Justin Bieber, croon along with Taylor Swift, then hop on stage with superheroes and Star Wars legends.  The staff joins in the fun, always happy to offer photo tips or share the odd quirky story. Unlike a traditional museum, nothing about Madame Tussauds feels formal; you’re encouraged to get silly, experiment, and enjoy every quirky minute. Kids often leave with huge grins—grown-ups too!—and your camera roll will thank you.  Since it shares a home with SEA LIFE and The Orlando Eye, pairing Madame Tussauds with another attraction makes for an action-packed, laughter-filled Sunday.  Brunch at The Glass Knife: Sunday Indulgence, Orlando-Style  Orlando’s dining scene is a treat, and Sundays are basically a citywide invitation to enjoy brunch in style. The Glass Knife in Winter Park is our top pick for turning your Sunday into something a little special.  This light-filled bakery and café pairs retro-glam décor with pastries that look like edible jewels. As soon as you step through the pastel doors, the smell of fresh croissants and rich espresso draws you to the counter. The brunch menu is a celebration in itself—don’t miss the signature avocado and egg toast, or the classic Southern chicken & biscuits, topped with luscious gravy.  But the true showstoppers are the sweets: pillowy cinnamon rolls, strawberry pop tarts, and exquisitely decorated cakes that are almost too pretty to eat. The ambiance here leans lively yet refined—think polished marble tables, soft jazz, and plenty of sunlight streaming in through oversized windows. It’s as perfect for leisurely family brunches as for catching up with friends or planning the next leg of your Sunday adventure.  After your meal, stroll Winter Park’s leafy streets or swing by the lakes before launching into more Orlando action.  Sunday Stroll at Lake Eola Park  Sometimes the best Sundays are the simple ones—fresh air, good company, and a view that proves why Orlando is called the City Beautiful. Lake Eola Park in downtown is a peaceful oasis that comes alive every weekend, especially when the weekly farmers market is in full swing.  Stroll the one-mile paved path encircling the lake, pausing to admire the famous swan boats (yes, you can rent one!) and the brilliant rainbow amphitheater. Local musicians and street artists keep the atmosphere lively, while the city’s skyline makes a picture-perfect backdrop.  Lake Eola Sunday Farmers Market is a treat, featuring bustling produce stalls, local crafts, and mouthwatering street food—from wood-fired pizza slices to stuffed empanadas. Grab a fresh juice or a coffee, then picnic under the shade of towering oaks with views of actual swans gliding by.  Kids love the playground and feeding the birds, while adults often claim a spot on the grass with a book or just watch the world go by. Could you imagine a more relaxing Sunday in the city?  Shopping and Flavors at East End Market  For a Sunday that feels both local and delicious, East End Market in the Audubon Park Garden District is a hit with food-lovers, crafters, and explorers. This community market buzzes on weekends, hosting an array of indie vendors who serve everything from fancy grilled cheese to authentic Japanese ramen.  Step inside, and you’re greeted with plant-filled corners, hand-built wooden stalls, and bursts of sunshine from the big storefront windows. Treat yourself to locally made coffee (Lineage Coffee Roasting is a favorite), then browse artisan breads, farm-fresh produce, microgreens, and gourmet cheeses—all perfect for an afternoon picnic or souvenirs to take home.  Brunch is a highlight: try the Nashville hot chicken sandwich at Gideon’s Bakehouse, grab a cold-pressed juice at Skyebird, or sample vegan bites at Winter Park Biscuit Co. Live music and maker pop-ups fill the courtyard every Sunday, making it easy to lose an hour (or three) here.  This friendly, neighborhood vibe is just minutes from downtown and close to Winter Park—so you can keep the culinary fun rolling all Sunday long.  Island H2O Water Park: Soak Up the Sunday Sun  When the Florida sun blazes (and let’s face it, it usually does), cool off with a splash-tastic day at Island H2O Water Park. Sundays here are energetic, effervescent, and fabulously chill, with a riverside resort feel that will have you forgetting all your travel worries.  Racers can hit giant slides with names like Follow Me Falls and Reload Rapids, while those seeking mellow vibes can float along Chat Creek (the park’s lazy river, where drifting is a sport). Families love Pelican’s Paradise, a splash zone filled with mini slides and interactive water play.  One big highlight: the park encourages you to connect your wristband to their app, then “like” songs and create custom playlists at various attractions throughout the day. There are cabanas to rent for a mini VIP retreat, plenty of shade, and poolside eats that go far beyond the usual snack bar.  Island H2O isn’t just for kids—adults can enjoy stylish poolside lounges, fruity frozen drinks, and a soundtrack that keeps the whole park grooving. It’s the ultimate fix for turning a scorching Sunday into a cool, carefree memory.  Sound Off Orlando knows how to turn any Sunday into a day you’ll remember. From gravity-defying rockets to alligator thrills, creative museum crowds to tranquil park strolls, there’s something here for every mood and every group. So go on—mix a little wild with a little wonder, add some great food, soak up the sun, and discover the local side of Sunday in Orlando. Whatever your travel style, the City Beautiful is always ready to surprise you, delight you, and send you home with one more story to tell.    Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and why not explore the fascinating Museum of Illusions?  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 

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