I-Drive Adventures: Orlando’s Most Exciting Attractions and Eats

Published: May 1, 2026
international drive in orlando

You know that buzz of excitement you get as your holiday really kicks off? That’s International Drive, or I-Drive, wrapped up in an exhilarating stretch of Orlando’s best attractions, crazy eateries, hands-on experiences, and somewhere-in-between discoveries. Whether you’re traveling with wide-eyed kids, a fun-loving partner, or friends who live for quirky moments, this is the address where Orlando truly lets loose. Get ready for dizzying observation wheels, hands-on science, awesome shopping, and culinary surprises around every palm tree. If you want to make the most of your Orlando escape, follow along—this is the insider’s guide to I-Drive’s top spots. 

Our favorite things to do on International Drive include: 

The Orlando Eye 

Madame Tussauds Orlando 

SEA LIFE Aquarium 

WonderWorks 

The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show 

Museum of Illusions 

Fun Spot America 

Congo River Adventure Golf 

Chocolate Kingdom 

ICON Park’s eats and shopping 

The Orlando Eye: Take in the City from New Heights

If you want that wow-in-your-face Orlando view, start with The Orlando Eye—unmissable, both figuratively and literally, thanks to its staggering 400-foot height. Perched atop ICON Park, this glass-encased observation wheel spins out 360-degree vistas of the cityscape below, stretching from shimmer lakes to the far-off domes of the theme parks. 

What sets The Orlando Eye apart, besides its sheer scale, is the experience itself. Climb aboard your own comfy capsule (air-conditioned, thank you Florida sun), and as you slowly rise above the palm trees and city bustle, a hush falls over your group—everyone’s busy soaking it in. You’ll spot tiny roller coasters in the distance, and if you time it for sunset, the city bathes in a gentle golden glow. Bring your camera or just your sense of awe—this is the kind of moment, and view, that anchors your vacation memories. 

At night, the wheel comes alive with cascading LED lights, twinkling across the Orlando skyline like a modern art installation. On special occasions, the lights celebrate everything from Pride to Fourth of July, pulsing in sync with the mood of the city. We love that you can pair this experience with the lively energy of ICON Park below, hopping from the quiet serenity of the skies to the dance of arcade lights and bustling patios in mere minutes. 

Madame Tussauds Orlando: Meet Celebrities, No VIP Pass Needed! 

Ever dream of taking a selfie with Taylor Swift, shaking hands with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, or posing beside E.T. and Superman? Madame Tussauds Orlando makes it happen, no Hollywood invites required. This superstar-studded wax museum isn’t just about looking—unlike traditional galleries, you’re encouraged to touch, pose, and play. 

Here’s what we love most: the atmosphere feels genuinely fun. The figures are so detailed, you’ll do a double-take before realizing it’s not the real Zendaya holding court on the red carpet. Each themed room brings fresh surprises. Strike Olympic poses with athletes, pop on provided props beside world leaders, or dabble in blockbuster scenes from iconic films. Staff regularly refresh the exhibits and add newcomers, so even repeat visitors find someone new to meet. 

If you’re there with kids, let them lead the charge through superhero and cartoon displays—they’ll absolutely lose it seeing life-sized animated favorites “just chilling” nearby. For groups of friends or couples, the museum’s sly sense of humor makes awkward photos a must. Madame Tussauds is one of those places where everyone ends up laughing—and yes, there’s no shame in going overboard with the vacation selfies. 

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Underwater Wonders Right on I-Drive 

Step inside SEA LIFE Orlando and instantly swap the buzz of International Drive for calm blue waters and mesmerizing marine creatures. This aquarium delivers interactive habitats that feel fresh and playful—an immersive ocean odyssey that’s ideal for all ages. 

Start with the 360-degree ocean tunnel. Sharks, rays, and glittery schools of fish swirl all around you, separated by just inches of gleaming glass. Coming face-to-face with a rescued sea turtle or a majestic zebra shark (seriously, they’re beautiful) makes for a subtle thrill. Throughout the exhibits, you’ll spot everything from jellyfish aglow with rainbow LEDs to adorable clownfish and sea horses that look like undersea fairies. 

One reason SEA LIFE is a favorite: it’s intentionally hands-on, with touch pools that let the curious stroke starfish and sea anemones under a friendly guide’s watchful eye. The aquarium design is thoughtful and intimate—subdued lighting, fascinating facts, and plenty of spots to sit and take it all in. 

Events change seasonally; you might stumble on a marine-themed scavenger hunt, a family “sleepover,” or even holiday decor in winter months. Animal talks and behind-the-scenes tours (sometimes available for an extra fee) open up even more secrets of the deep. 

WonderWorks: The Upside-Down Funhouse of Science and Surprises 

You can’t miss WonderWorks—it looks like a neoclassical mansion flipped on its roof, columns skyward and all. This place sets the tone for the kind of interactive, hands-on, “just try it” fun that defines I-Drive. 

Inside, WonderWorks is an interactive science playground. Over 100 exhibits invite you to touch, test, and tinker. Feel hurricane-force winds, lie on a bed of nails (it doesn’t hurt, promise), build life-size bubbles, or step into a virtual rollercoaster. There’s a glow-in-the-dark ropes course strung above your head and laser tag arenas for your inner secret agent. 

What makes it a standout? The atmosphere hums with laughter and loud “No way—try THIS!” moments. Parents find themselves caught up in the experiments, too. Its mix of quirky edutainment and heart-pumping challenges means every age finds something to geek out over, and nobody’s too cool for WonderWorks’ upside-down photo-ops at the entrance. 

The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: Eat, Laugh, and Be Amazed 

Combining dinner, magic, and comedy in one delightfully topsy-turvy event, The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show is a family-friendly evening staple on I-Drive. This isn’t your average “dinner and a show”—the entertainment kicks off the moment you walk in, and the food and fun flow nonstop. 

The ambiance is light and high-energy—a cozy, cabaret-style venue where the crowd quickly becomes part of the action. Talented magicians and comedians keep the mood buoyant, pulling volunteers up on stage for improvisational tricks and side-splitting skits. The sleight of hand is slick and the jokes keep all ages giggling, making it perfect for families, date nights or big celebratory groups. 

Ticket includes unlimited pizza, salad, beer, wine and soft drinks, so no one goes hungry. What really seals the deal is the way everyone leaves grinning—those skeptical grandparents, moody teens, and toddlers hopped up on pepperoni pizza. You walk in for a dinner, and walk out feeling like you were part of a mini comedy festival. 

Museum of Illusions: Bend Reality and Trick Your Mind

Ready to question everything you know about perception and snap some truly outlandish photos? The Museum of Illusions is I-Drive’s wackiest house of brain teasers, visual tricks, and interactive puzzles. This spot gets people talking—and snapping, too. 

Step into rooms where the floor tilts, the walls melt, and your sense of “up” and “down” does a full-on headstand. One room might warp your height (tallest in the family, even if you’re not!); another throws your reflection into a kaleidoscopic maze. Try the Vortex Tunnel and discover new depths of disorientation. It’s less a museum and more a walk-through playground designed for laughter and jaw-dropping moments. 

We love how they blend art with science and offer explanations alongside the fun—perfect for curious minds of all ages. And whether you’re a selfie addict, Instagram wizard or just want evidence of your gravity-defying exploits, this attraction guarantees a gallery’s worth of wild vacation pics. 

Fun Spot America: Big Thrills, Zero Pretense 

Orlando is roller coaster country, and Fun Spot America brings the amusement-park excitement right to International Drive—no long shuttles required. The vibe here is classic, unfussy fun with a little bit of retro flair. 

Thrill-seekers will love the White Lightning wooden coaster and the steel-smooth Freedom Flyer, while smaller children zip around on pint-sized rides and go-karts. It doesn’t stop there—there’s an old-school arcade, midway games, bumper boats, and funky carnival food stands. 

What makes Fun Spot America such a hit? This is the sort of place where your wallet breathes a little easier compared to the mega-parks. The crowds are friendlier and less overwhelming, but the thrills remain at full tilt. Pay-as-you-go tickets mean you can dive in for an afternoon or blitz through just your favorite rides. Add in frequent live entertainment and food truck festivals, and you’ve got pure Americana fun without the stress. 

Congo River Adventure Golf: Putt Your Way to Treasure 

If you’re craving a break from the action (or looking for a family night that’s equal parts silly and competitive), Congo River Adventure Golf is your passport to Florida-style mini-golf mayhem. Step into a themed course that transforms you into an explorer hacking your way through lush jungles, over waterfalls, and past lifelike gators (fear not—they’re just statues). 

Each hole brings goofy challenges—hills, caves, and tricky angles—set beneath tropical palms. Along the way, search for hidden “artifacts” to rack up points or snap jungle-themed photos worthy of your group text. There are even live baby gators to safely observe or even feed (with staff supervision), adding a splash of authentic Florida flavor. 

Why do we love this mini-golf spot? The creative design means you’re always laughing, strategizing or plotting how to regain that one-stroke lead. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser for all ages—and a perfect low-key evening wind-down after a day of theme-park rides and busy shopping. 

Chocolate Kingdom: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth and Inner Willy Wonka 

For travelers with cravings (or just a healthy curiosity about all things sweet), Chocolate Kingdom is a tour worth savoring. This micro-factory/cafe/hands-on museum transforms cocoa beans into gobsmacking treats while pulling visitors straight into the action. 

The guided tour packs in fascinating chocolate history, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the chocolate-making process. You might roast a cocoa bean, grind nibs, or invent your own custom chocolate bar—chocolate snow or gummy bear mix-ins encouraged! Along the way, lively guides sprinkle in humor and stories, making the learning deliciously digestible. 

The whole place smells of cocoa, and tasting samples at every turn keeps everyone grinning. Younger guests have a blast pressing buttons and watching the chocolate river flow, while grown-ups discover flavor notes and tricks of the trade. For chocolate lovers, it’s a trip to remember—and the gift shop lets you smuggle home edible souvenirs for later. 

ICON Park’s Eats and Shopping: Refuel and Recharge 

After so much playing, puzzling, and putt-putting, you’ll want to sample the flavors of International Drive—and ICON Park is the gathering place for both big bites and breezy browsing. This lively outdoor complex is steps from several top attractions and blends the buzz of a city square with sweet vacation energy. 

For a taste-forward quick fix, try Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips: freshly battered cod and fat, crispy fries with zippy dipping sauces—simple, filling, and spot-on after a big day out. Slapfish delivers loaded lobster rolls, while Shake Shack’s hand-spun milkshakes call your name if you’ve got a sweet tooth. For sit-down dinners with a bit of flair, Tapa Toro serves up Spanish tapas with a view of the wheel, and Yard House pours an encyclopedic selection of craft beers in a lively setting. 

Beyond food, you’ll find boutique shops ranging from trendy sunglasses to quirky souvenirs, a candy emporium, and pop-up artisan markets on select weekends. Live music, open-air art installations, and the twinkle of The Orlando Eye overhead keep things buzzing well into the evening. ICON Park has a relaxed, colorful vibe—linger with a drink, share vacation stories, and soak it all up. 

 

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! 

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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
family enjoying a ride in a waterpark
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Seven Days in Orlando: A Week of Nonstop Fun

Orlando means different things to every traveler—theme park fanatics swoon for rollercoasters while wildlife lovers gear up for gator encounters. But what if you want to do it all? Good news: seven days in Orlando gives you time to hop between rocket launches, wild animal adventures, immersive museums, and delicious dining, all under the sizzling Florida sun. Whether you’re bringing kids, traveling with friends, or carving out some couple time, we’ve lined up a weeklong itinerary that’s brimming with fun, packed with easily doable routes, and topped with tasty recommendations. Get your planners ready—adventure awaits!  Here’s where to go for the best Orlando week ever:  Kennedy Space Center  LEGOLAND® Florida  Gatorland  WonderWorks  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Madame Tussauds Orlando  The Orlando Eye  Chocolate Kingdom  CoCo Key Water Park  Museum of Illusions  Daytona International Speedway Track Tour  The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show  Congo River Adventure Golf  Clearwater Marine Aquarium  Island H2O Water Park  Day 1: Outer Space and Ocean Explorers  Morning: Kennedy Space Center  Kick off your Orlando adventure with a blast—literally—at the Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island. No need to rent a spaceship—just hop on a Greyhound bus or Lynx public transport to the Titusville area, then grab a shuttle or ride share for the final leg (about an hour’s journey). The Center’s launchpads, astronaut meet-and-greets, and Saturn V Rocket make everyone feel like a kid again. You’ll get hands-on with interactive exhibits and walk beneath gigantic rockets that shaped history. The vibe is widescreen epic—think awe, inspiration, and a sprinkle of pixie dust for space fans young and old.  Lunch: Moon Rock Café  Fuel up at the Kennedy Space Center’s Moon Rock Café—it’s no frills, but the chicken tenders and mac on a sunny terrace hit the spot, and you might spot astronauts passing through.  Afternoon: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium  Return to downtown Orlando by catching Lynx bus 8 back toward the I-Drive area (International Drive), the hub for your next set of adventures. Take a breezy stroll to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, a wonderland beneath the waves. Its 360° ocean tunnel feels immersive and peaceful, with sharks, stingrays, and colorful reef fish gliding overhead. Check out the jellyfish zone and a gentle seahorse nursery—perfect for that calming, “I’m definitely on vacation” moment.  Evening: The Orlando Eye  As sunset colors start swirling, walk next door to the Orlando Eye. Step into a futuristic glass pod—cue gentle air-con and tunes—then soar 400 feet up for the region’s best panoramic views. Downtown’s skyline sparkles as the theme parks light up in the distance, creating a spectacular introduction to your week in Orlando.  Dinner: Yard House at ICON Park  A short stroll delivers you to Yard House, where craft beer fans rejoice over an epic tap list. Try the Nashville hot chicken sandwich or Korean BBQ wings, surrounded by big screens and upbeat chatter.  Day 2: Bricks, Explorations & Optical Illusions  Morning: LEGOLAND® Florida  Start day two in style with LEGOLAND®! Bus route 30 (from downtown Orlando to Winter Haven) connects you to the free LEGOLAND® Florida shuttle at Winter Haven’s transit terminal. It’s great for families and nostalgic adults, offering enough coasters, splash zones, and interactive exhibits to leave everyone smiling. Don’t miss Miniland USA—the handcrafted Lego cities are an impressive feat of creativity—while Ninjago World and the LEGO® Driving School are top picks for little ones.  Lunch: LEGOLAND® Grub  Stroll the colorful walkways and grab lunch at Brickbeard’s Food Market, known for its cheerful staff and pasta bowls—the outdoor seating has a lake breeze and room for kids to spread out.  Afternoon: Museum of Illusions  Head back toward I-Drive via the shuttle and bus, then make your way to Museum of Illusions. If you think you’ve seen all the selfie spots Orlando has to offer, think again. This museum’s grin-inducing optical illusions, vortex tunnels, and mind-bending mirrored rooms create endless “wait, what?” moments—perfect for sharing or family photos that will keep you chuckling long after your trip.  Dinner: The Oceanaire Seafood Room  For dinner, try The Oceanaire Seafood Room at Pointe Orlando—a smooth, upscale dining space with mood lighting and fresh Florida seafood. Share their decadent lobster mac or tuck into their signature oysters for something special. The lively yet elegant atmosphere is perfect for winding down after a day on the go.  Day 3: Gators, Chocolate, and Wonder  Lunch: Pearl’s Smokehouse  On-site at Gatorland, the rustic Pearl’s Smokehouse serves up smoky pulled pork sandwiches, alligator nuggets (yep, really!), and cold sodas. Claim a shady picnic table and watch the swampy world go by.  Afternoon: Chocolate Kingdom  Grab rideshare back up to the Kissimmee area (about 20 minutes), where chocolate dreams come true at Chocolate Kingdom. This interactive factory tour takes you bean-to-bar, weaving in storytelling, tastings, and the intoxicating aroma of melted chocolate. Kids get hands-on making candy, and grown-ups can customize a chocolate bar with toppings galore. Warning: the gift shop will test your willpower—but you’re on vacation, right?  Evening: WonderWorks Orlando  From Chocolate Kingdom, it’s an easy Lynx Route 56 ride back to I-Drive for an evening at WonderWorks. With its upside-down facade and kooky science exhibits, it’s hard not to smile as soon as you see it. Lean into laser tag, crawl through hurricane wind tunnels, and test your skills at the ropes course—there’s no better mix of learning and laughter.  Dinner: Café Tu Tu Tango  Cap off the evening with small plates, local art and live entertainment at Café Tu Tu Tango—every wall is an explosion of creativity, and their eclectic menu means you can sample chipotle honey wings, Spanish-style shrimp, and sangria all at once.  Day 4: Cars, Cruises, and Classic Fun  Morning: Daytona International Speedway Track Tour  Take a break from theme parks—jump on SunRail or Greyhound to Daytona Beach, then transfer to the Votran bus for the Daytona International Speedway Track Tour. Fast cars, fascinating history, and behind-the-scenes glimpses put you right on the asphalt where legends drive. Young racing fans will love climbing up the grandstands, and gearheads get their fill of classic auto nostalgia.  Lunch: Sloppy Joe’s Daytona Beach  Head towards the beach for lunch at Sloppy Joe’s— laidback, oceanfront and colorful. Their mojitos and the crab cake sandwich are favorites, best enjoyed on the outdoor deck with sea breezes and stellar people-watching.  Afternoon: Millionaire’s Row Cruise by Island Queen Cruises  Hop on the FlixBus to Miami (if you want a day trip splurge—just two days a week on this route!), where you’ll discover the glam glitz of Miami’s Millionaire’s Row Cruise. It’s a treat for everyone: sun, wind, celebrity stories, and dreamy yachts all float by with commentary. Otherwise, save time and head back to Orlando for a more relaxed afternoon.  Evening: The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show  Back in Orlando, book a table at The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show at WonderWorks. The show uses interactive magic and improv to keep every age laughing. The ticket includes unlimited pizza and salad, so bring your appetite.  Day 5: Water Parks and Wild Sights  Lunch: River Park Café  Walk over to the River Park Café—riverside tables, friendly staff, and an all-day breakfast menu with everything from pancakes to pressed Cuban sandwiches—a breezy break from the action.  Afternoon: Congo River Adventure Golf  Hop the Lynx bus back up to International Drive for an afternoon round at Congo River Adventure Golf. Putt your way past waterfalls, caves, and playful jungle décor—the mini-golf vibe is both lively and leafy. Kids can dig for “gems” while grownups enjoy the relaxed, outdoor atmosphere.  Evening: Free Fun at Disney Springs  Orlando’s got plenty of free fun, and Disney Springs is top of the list in the evening—catch live music on the plazas, browse unique boutiques, or simply wander along the waterfront. The open-air atmosphere and street performers make for a festive end to the day.  Dinner: The Boathouse  For dinner, The Boathouse delivers dockside dining with their legendary lobster roll, fresh seafood, and lively vintage-vibe interior complete with floating cars and classic boats. Sunset here is magical, with twinkling lights over the water.  Day 6: Aquariums, Safaris, and Shopping Sprees  Morning: Clearwater Marine Aquarium  Catch the Amtrak or RedCoach bus to Clearwater (just under two hours), where the Clearwater Marine Aquarium lets you meet rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays in a bright, airy space. The staff’s passion is contagious, and learning about the animals’ rescue stories is both moving and uplifting.  Lunch: The Bait House  On the marina, The Bait House is a fun, nautical gem with anchoring sailboats, a chalkboard menu, and their signature blackened grouper sandwich. Grab a picnic table above the water and soak in the relaxed vibe.  Afternoon: CoCo Key Water Park  Bus back to Orlando for an afternoon at CoCo Key Water Park, a family-friendly oasis with bright slides, play structures, and a massive canopy for shade. The crowd’s young, but even adults appreciate the winding lazy river and tropical cocktails from the poolside tiki bar.  Evening: Premium Outlets Orlando  Round off the day at the Orlando International Premium Outlets. The bargains speak for themselves: from designer handbags to sporty sneakers, the open-air mall is a treasure trove for savvy shoppers.  Day 7: Museums, Magic and Final Goodbyes  Morning: Madame Tussauds Orlando  On the final day in Orlando, head back to International Drive for waxwork magic at Madame Tussauds. From superstar singers to superheroes, the collection is interactive and surprisingly lifelike. Snap selfies with the “stars” in themed rooms that are playful and endlessly entertaining.  Lunch: Sugar Factory  Next door, the Sugar Factory is a feast for the senses—rainbow-colored martinis, monster milkshakes, and plates piled high with burgers or pancakes. Kids love the lollipop-decorated interiors; adults can sip creative cocktails and enjoy the bustling scene.  Afternoon: Lion Country Safari  Jump on Greyhound toward West Palm Beach, then a local shuttle to Lion Country Safari—it takes some planning but is worth every minute. The drive-through safari parks immerse you in wide-open savannas, where zebras and rhinos amble past your ride. Afterwards, explore interactive animal exhibits: feeding giraffes, splashing in the Safari Splash water zone, or simply soaking up African-inspired surroundings.  Evening: Sunsets and Goodbye Drinks  Back in Orlando, close out your week with a celebration. Margaritaville Resort’s Euphoria Bar is an open, stylish spot with sunset cocktails and live music. Raise a glass to a week well spent and start plotting your return.    Seven days go fast, but Orlando packs every moment with adventure, flavor, and a dash of Florida sunshine. Whether you’re thrill-seeking on roller coasters, gazing at dolphins, unraveling illusions, or relaxing with riverside bites, every day comes with surprise and discovery. Here’s to making the most of every day—and every smile—in the City Beautiful!    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! 
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Things to do in Orlando for Birthdays

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 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. 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 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. 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! 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

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