Things to do in Orlando for Birthdays

UPDATED JULY 2024

Though getting a year older can be a little daunting for some people, taking a vacation can sure soften the blow – and give us a reason to let loose and have a bit of fun! Thankfully, Orlando is the perfect place to celebrate, with exciting activities and attractions for those of all ages. For thrillseekers and dreamers alike, there’s no better place to be than the Magic Kingdom, of course. If you’re looking for something a little more out of the box, the Tree Trek Adventure Park provides a fantastic action-packed experience set against the backdrop of the wondrous local landscape. Or, if you just want to relax on your special day, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is the perfect respite from the city. No matter where your interests may lie, the city has so much to offer for every type of traveller.

Hit the Theme Parks

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Though Orlando is packed with fantastic birthday attractions, one spot most certainly stands out above them all – yup, that’s right, it’s the Magic Kingdom! Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place is known as one of the world's leading theme parks – and it's easy to see why. Offering over 40 rides, shows, and shopping destinations, the park is a great stop for young families and big groups as it has a wide variety of things to choose from. Here you’ll find favorites like Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, amongst other world-famous attractions. An ultimate classic and eternal crowd-pleaser, this place is sure to bring that extra touch of magic to the party.

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Party planning can be a lot of effort; however, Orlando kind of does all the hard work for us. If you’re looking to bring your birthday year in with a splash, why not head over to Universal’s Volcano Bay? A constituent of the Universal Resort, this place is recognized as one of the top aquatic attractions in North America. For those looking to celebrate their birthday with a little bit of excitement and adventure, this place pretty much has it all. You’ll be able to find everything from edgy thrill rides and tube slides to rapid rides and wave pools, all in one place. Still, for those members of the group who prefer to play it safe, the park also has a beach area and cabanas to chill under. In addition, there are a number of dining options, making this spot perfect for large parties. Bringing the good clean fun to the party, there’s nobody who doesn’t enjoy a good water park!

Have Fun Outdoors

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Travelling with kids can be a difficult feat, let alone when there’s a birthday coming up. If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, you might want to check out the next item on our list. Perfect for bold and energetic youngsters, the Tree Trek Adventure Park changes up the scenery by providing a memorable experience set against the natural pine forests of Kissimmee. This experience involves tackling a challenging aerial obstacle course to truly get the adrenaline pumping. With around 100 different games, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. Whiz through the trees on zip lines, test your balance on the suspended bridges and climb up 50-foot ladders. There are different courses catering to variant age groups and the experience is run by professional guides to ensure personal safety.

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For those who want to keep it a little more low-key, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Perfect for any occasion big or small, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is one of our favorite things to do in Orlando. Situated just a quick ride out from Disney World, the reserve covers over 12, 000 acres of swampland and lakes to be explored. A fantastic stop for nature lovers, the park features over 1,000 species of plants and animals all thriving together. This place is a fantastic choice since it provides a wide variety of fun on-site activities and excursions to be enjoyed. Beat the heat in one of the park’s pool areas, cruise some of the city’s most stunning lakes, or kick back with a movie under the stars. Whatever you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great!

Have a Blast!

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If you’re having trouble picking an activity, why not go for something that everybody will enjoy? Located just north of the city, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers a fantastic way to view animals in a kind and respectful way. Standing out from other zoological gardens you may have come across, this place acquires its name from the native gardens on which it is built. As an effect, you can stroll through beautiful protected wetlands, view animals native to the area, and get friendly with some interesting reptiles. Still, this place isn’t all about its local creatures. In fact, you can view over 500 animals on the premises from over 205 species, including big cats, giraffes, and a wonderful Indian rhinoceros. Combining fun with learning, the institute works to teach its visitors about environmentalism and animal conservation. What could possibly be more wholesome?

As far as classic things to do on your birthday go, museums don’t usually top the list. Though the thought of it can sound a little dull, we promise that this next suggestion is anything but. A sure-fire way to keep everybody entertained, the Museum of Illusions offers an interactive, immersive experience to keep you guessing. Inside, the institute has around 50 exciting exhibits which work to trick the eye and twist the mind. If you’re looking for a way to test your one-year-older brain, here it is. Just don’t forget to bring your camera!

Everybody has different ideas for what makes the perfect birthday. Luckily, Orlando is the perfect destination for a spot of birthday bliss. Whether you’re looking to go classic with a trip to the Magic Kingdom, get nostalgic at the waterpark, or choose something a little more laid-back, the city has something for every type of traveller. 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
Go City Travel Expert

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Outdoor Activities Orlando

Seated right by the eastern coastline and offering dreamy weather all year round, the Sunshine State is pretty much built for outdoor activity. With a fantastic mix of nature and urban attractions, the city caters to all types of travellers. For thrillseekers, there’s no better place to be than Orlando. Check out some of the top-rated theme parks and waterparks in the country. If you're a nature lover, lose yourself in the area’s beautiful parks and wildlife preserves. Foodies will enjoy strolling through the open-air markets dotted around the city, with more than enough to choose from. Wherever your interests may lie, Orlando has at it all! So, if you’re thinking about making the visit, use our list as a starting point for exploring the area. Whatever you choose to do in Orlando, it’s impossible to be bored! See the Classics Of course, no trip to Orlando is complete without a visit to the Magic Kingdom. Part of the Walt Disney World Resort, this place is the most visited theme park in North America – and with good reason! Bringing all of our childhood dreams to life, this place is like the world epicenter of fun and imagination. With over 40 rides, attractions and dining options to choose from, the park provides a great entertainment experience for those of all ages. There’s so much to see and do here, it’s really up to you. Highlights include Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Country Bear Jamboree. Oh, and definitely don’t forget to take a picture in front of the world-famous Cinderella Castle! The true magic of Universal comes to life at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can experience many rides and attractions based on one of the world’s best-sellers. Bringing one of our favorite movie series to life, this specialist park works to cater to all our cinematic fantasies. Franchise fans will be spoiled for choice with testing thrill rides, incredible 3D adventures, and fantastic shows. Hop on the Hogwarts Express train, pick up your very own wand in one of the stores, or sip a butterbeer in The Leaky Cauldron. Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. With those long, hot Florida days, of course you’ll be looking for somewhere to cool down. Thankfully, Orlando goes all out with their famous waterparks dotted around the city for our enjoyment. Still, out of all of its offerings, Universal’s Volcano Bay tops the list for its creativity and variety. Boasting over 20 rides and attractions from the pretty tame to the super scary, this place has a little something for everybody. Adrenaline junkies will love Ko’okiri Body Plunge, a thrill ride which a whopping 125-foot drop. For those want to play it safe, rides like the Taniwha Tubes and Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides are exhilarating without testing our fear to its very limits. The park also has a beach area and even cabanas to relax under. Whether you’re looking to get your pulse racing or just want to soak up the sun, this place truly has it all. Get in Touch With Nature Orlando’s nature reserves are some of the most interesting in the country, with thousands of acres of swamps and wetlands just waiting to be explored. Located just south of the city, the Disney Wilderness Preserve offers a considerate and ecofriendly way to view animals in their natural habitat. Part of Everglades National Park, the reserve presents a completely unique ecosystem, which is not currently seen anywhere else on the planet! Strolling through the area, you’ll be able to view over 1,000 species of plants and animals all in the same place. Along the trails, expect to see everything from cranes and deer to raptors and water snakes. If you’re an outdoorsy type, this place should place right at the top of your itinerary. If you’re looking for a way to take in the natural beauty of Orlando, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Offering a quiet respite from the city, Kraft Azalea Garden is just perfect for taking a lazy stroll, reading a book, or just simply enjoying the sights. This calm and romantic spot features majestic centuries-old oaks, cypress, and banyan trees. In addition, the park is home to many species of beautiful birds, including egrets, cranes, and woodpeckers. Enjoy the fresh air, have a picnic, or watch the sunset over Lake Maitland – the world’s your oyster! Relax! The best way to start the weekend in Orlando is by heading over to the Winter Park Farmers’ Market. Running on every Saturday from early morning right through the afternoon, this place is known for its huge spread of fresh produce. Still, what draws us in every time is its large number of food vendors, serving up an enticing array of dishes from around the globe. Snack on some freshly popped kettle corn as you browse. Try a flaky Jamaican patty hot from the oven. Indulge in a cupcake with all the trimmings. Whatever you decide to go for, we promise you won’t leave hungry! The city may best be known for its famous theme parks, but it’s also home to some wonderful urban landscapes to be discovered. Situated in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is affectionately considered to be one of the city's top natural treasures. This lively green space has plenty of plant life and spectacular views of the Orlando skyline. Still, the park is more than just a pretty face; within its boundaries, you can rent swan-shaped paddle boats, feed the live swans, and see concerts at the Walt Disney Ampitheater. In addition, outdoor classes, farmers markets, and special events shine a spotlight on the scenic location throughout the year. Living up to its sunny reputation all throughout the year, Orlando makes the perfect destination for outdoor activity. Across the city, you’ll find everything from world-class theme parks and water parks to stunning gardens and wildlife reserves which make for a super relaxing day out. Whatever your interest, don’t forget to bring your sunblock and sunglasses! 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
La noria de observación The Wheel, en Icon Park, Orlando
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Orlando 4th of July Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in July

With lots of fun, patriotic-themed activities and attractions, Orlando is a fun place to spend the 4th of July. From theme parks to fireworks, if you’re looking for Orlando 4th of July ideas, check these out! There are so many local activities and fun things do in Orlando in July, including... LEGOLAND® Florida Red, White and Boom I-Drive 360 Orlando Independence Day at SeaWorld® Orlando Fireworks at the Fountain and more... Save on Admission to Popular Attractions Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Orlando pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Orlando attractions and activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Orlando attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special July and 4th of July weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Orlando pass. LEGOLAND® Florida Red, White & Boom LEGOLAND® Florida Resort celebrates the 4th of July in grand fashion -- with an amazing fireworks display, of course! This exhibition is one of their biggest fireworks displays all year. It's sure to delight the kids. When: July 4 Where: LEGOLAND, 1 LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, Florida Plus, LEGOLAND also hosts special events throughout the summer, along with extended summer hours on select dates. Check their website for details. Getting In: LEGOLAND Florida tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass. Explore More of I-Drive Orlando After a spin on the Orlando Eye, check out the rest of I-DRIVE, one of Orlando's top entertainment destination, for "360-degrees of fun." Attraction highlights include: Madame Tussauds: Pose with life-like wax representations of your favorite celebritiess and explore local culture and history. SEA LIFE Aquarium: Walk through the acrylic sea tunnel inside this new Orlando aquarium (don't forget to look up!). Skeletons: Animals Unveiled!: Get closer-than-close to real bones, skeletons, structures, and more for an entertaining, educational experience. Ripley's Believe It or Not!: From authentic shrunken heads, to bizarre natural occurrences, Ripley's in Orlando has one of the most fascinating collections of artifacts. Congo River Adventure Golf: Get in some classic fun, and hit a round of adventure golf at Congo River. Getting In: Each of these International-Drive attractions listed above are available on the Orlando Explorer Pass. Red, Hot, & Boom in Altamonte Springs Each year, the city of Altamonte Springs, Florida puts on one of Orlando's biggest 4th of July Fireworks Shows. With food, games, live music, and some of today's hottest stars, there's no wonder this event is so popular. Performing artists are announced in early June, so stay tuned for more info. When: July 3, 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm; fireworks at 9:30 pm. Where: Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd, Altamonte Springs, Fl 32701 Getting In: Red, Hot, & Boom is free to attend. Lakeridge Winery Summer Music Series The Lakeridge Winery invites guests to come sip some wine and enjoy live, outdoor music by some of the area's most talented jazz musicians. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks, and food will be available for purchase along with complimentary winery tours and tastings. This summer music series runs each Saturday of July, but we've highlighted the one that falls closest to the 4th. When: July 6, 2018 Where: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, 19239 U.S. 27 North, Clermont, Fl 34715 Getting In: It's free to attend the Lakeridge Winery Summer Music Series. Remember Save on Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Orlando to help you plan your 4th of July weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Orlando pass, where you can save up to 55% 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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