Orlando

Things to Do in Orlando When it Rains

Don't let the wet weather spoil your vacation! Here's our pick of the best indoor activities...
By Katie Sagal

From wacky museums to shopping and dining, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

Orlando is a lovely city to visit year-round, but it does have a rainy season between June and September. So if you’re traveling to Orlando during the summer, it’s likely that you’ll run into some rain. In search of things to do in Orlando when it rains? Check out a few of our favorite indoor options to make the most of bad weather in Florida.

A few of the available activities include...

  • WonderWorks
  • Kennedy Space Center Complex
  • ICON Orlando
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
  • Madame Tussauds
  • And more!

WonderWorks Orlando

The hardest part of a rainy vacation when traveling as a family is the problem of how to keep the kids occupied on a day when they can’t run around and play.

Let us solve that problem for you – pay a visit to the amazing WonderWorks Orlando and your kids can run, play, and learn to their hearts’ content. They call themselves an indoor amusement park, and that’s a pretty apt description. There are dozens of exhibits, themed areas, and interactive objects that allow visitors to learn as they play.

WonderWorld

A few ideas include...

 

  • Get blown away by hurricane-force winds and then feel what it’s like to experience an earthquake that measures 5.3 on the Richter scale in Disaster Zone.
     
  • In Bed of Nails, lie on a bed of thousands of super sharp nails and feel absolutely nothing. (Then learn the science behind it!)
     
  • Make your way to the mound and pitch to your favorite Major League players at Velocity Ball. 
     
  • Play a sport unlike any other - Mind Ball. This challenging biofeedback game for two employs EEG technology, allowing players to use their brains (only!) to move the ball. across the table.
     
  • In WonderCoasters, build a virtual roller coaster with the Wonder Simulator, and then go for a ride on it! Anything’s possible when you can turn 360 degrees in every direction!
     
  • Climb to the top of the Indoor Ropes Challenge Course, a three-story, glow-in-the-dark course complete with 20 different obstacles.
     
  • One minute you’re in the theater and the next you’re in the middle of the action with the 4D Extreme Motion Ride. The 12-seat theater takes visitors to new levels of entertainment by combining 3D film with special effects and full-motion seats.
     
  • Enjoy a little friendly competition with a game of Lazer-Tag in WonderWorks’ enormous (10,000 square feet!) blacklit maze.

Kennedy Space Center Complex

Literally millions of visitors flock to this amazing complex each and every year. The Kennedy Space Center is the heart of spaceflight in the United States, and it’s one of the top attractions in all of Orlando.

While it’s home to NASA’s launch headquarters, it includes so much more than that for visitors. Travelers can see giant rockets, spend some time in real flight simulators, meet a veteran astronaut, and much more. Take a tour of the facilities, take in an informative IMAX show, and you’ll get the complete Kennedy Space Center experience.

NASA

ICON Orlando

Although your view will be a bit foggier than it might be on a clear day, it’s still a good chance to see the beautiful cityscape from 400 feet in the air on the fabulous ICON Orlando.

Of course, you’ll see beyond just Orlando, too – you can see glimpses far into Central Florida, including local theme parks and greenspaces. It’s a great opportunity to snap some fun photos with the whole family, plus there’s something very cool about seeing rain from up above, too.

Ripley's Believe it or Not!

Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of the weird and wonderful things going on at Ripley’s Believe it or Not! There are hundreds of different exhibits that are designed to attract visitors of all stripes, whether you’re intrigued by shrunken heads or are fascinated by dinosaur fossils.

The extensive collections at Ripley’s span much of the natural and manmade world, and include things as diverse as micro-sculptures and a section of the Berlin Wall.

💰 >> See how you can save up to 50% on Orlando attractions

Titanic

Titanic: The Artifact

So you’ve seen the movie a time or three. Now it’s time to explore the real history of the world’s most famous sinking ship at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. This 20,000-sqft attraction recreates models of the iconic places of this beautiful ship, from the Grand Staircase to the First Class Parlor Suite.

Actors in costume play real figures from the Titanic as they tell you all about the history of her design, construction, and fateful journey. Enjoy an hour-long guided tour of the facilities, then explore on your own as you wander through 200 artifacts from the ship and the Hollywood production.

American Police Hall of Fame

Fans of police procedurals like CSI and Law and Order will relish the chance to explore the super informative American Police Hall of Fame.

See how crime-solving plays out in real life, with a chance to view real forensic technologies and tools, view fun artifacts like counterfeit money, and see a model crime scene. It’s fun for kids and adults, so don’t worry about scaring little ones.

American Police Hall of Fame

Museum of Science and Industry

Take a ride to Tampa to explore one of the region’s most popular museums – the Museum of Science and Industry. A distinctive science museum, MOSI offers more than just exhibits about how things work. Instead, they have interactive, immersive exhibits that involve you in learning the practice and principles behind a phenomenon or invention.

Investigate the future of 3D printing, sit back and relax in a driverless car, explore NASA’s model moon base, and more! Although it’s primarily geared toward kids, adults will get a kick of out this attraction, too.

SEA LIFE Orlando

Animal lovers rejoice! The delightful SEA LIFE Orlando aquarium offers all the beauty and color of the world’s waterways in a convenient indoor setting. It's home to more than 5,000 aquatic plants and animals.

Check out the themed habitats and learn all about sea life in the highly interactive displays. You can see sharks and sea turtles swimming overhead as you take your turn in the 360-degree ocean tunnel and even touch a green sea anemone in the hands-on rock pool.

Sea Life

Madame Tussauds Orlando

A visit to Madame Tussauds is the perfect indoor attraction that everyone will love. Get a taste of what it's like to mingle with the stars! Enjoy the opportunity to "meet" your favorite celebrities and snap that perfect photo. Various themed areas in this popular attraction feature actors like Brad Pitt, musicians like Taylor Swift, and even directors like Steven Spielberg.

Madame Tussauds Orlando
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

Dinner Shows & Festive Dining

A popular vacation idea in Orlando is the dinner show. There are many varieties, but what they all share in common is food, fun, and a great evening. Choose wonder and amazement at the Cirque Magique Dinner Show. You'll see everything from exciting magic tricks to delightful acrobatic feats.

If you're looking for something more immersive, the Pirate's Dinner Show is a treat for the whole family. It features swashbuckling and a series of massive ships modeled after historic vessels. Seriously, you'll feel like you're dining in a pirate lagoon. If your party consists of adults only, then you might want to head to the Treasure Tavern. It offers hilarious and mildly naughty humor alongside tasty food and drinks.

Enjoy some shopping

One of our favorite things to do on a rainy day is to take advantage of local Orlando shopping opportunities. Make the most of them and get some souvenirs, restock our closets, or pick up something special.

Some top local places to shop around Orlando include the upscale Mall at Millenia and the popular Orlando International Premium Outlets. Or, try the family-friendly Pointe Orlando, which also includes movie theaters and restaurants. If you are looking to shop when the weather is not quite so rainy, head to Winter Park for some cute boutique shops and local hidden gems.

Shopping in Orlando

The Escape Game Orlando

Escape rooms are perfect for rainy days. Challenge a group of friends or family to one of several themed games. You’ll have 60 minutes to put your problem-solving skills to the test. Can you work as a team to escape before it's too late?

Take your pick from loads of uniquely themed games including Playground, and be transported back to your childhood for some crazy classroom assignments. Or, choose Mission Mars, where you’ll work together to repair a spaceship so you can get back to Earth.

Escape the miserable weather and get stuck into solving some tricky puzzles and fun challenges.

Rainy Day Recap

Rainy day in Orlando? No worries! There are plenty of indoor activities and things to do to enjoy with the whole family. Keep in mind that many theme parks also offer indoor components, even if the bulk of their activities are outside.

Visiting during a rainy day can sometimes be an advantage because you’ll encounter fewer lines at certain times of the year.

Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City®

With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your Orlando must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you've chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you're dreaming of ticking off. So pick whichever Orlando attraction pass suits you and go see the sights!

☀️ Compare Orlando passes ☀️– 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a pass ✈

Katie Sagal

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Orlando
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10+ Things to Do in Orlando with Kids During Your Vacation

If you're planning on surprising your kids with a trip to Orlando, be prepared for plenty of excitement! It's not all about the big theme parks though - there are animal attractions galore, and interesting learning opportunities too.
Katie Sagal
Blog

Where to Stay in Orlando

Blessed by year-round beautiful weather and sunny skies, Orlando is best known for its major attractions like Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and Seaworld. For anyone making their way to the City Beautiful for the first time, choosing a place to stay can be a little overwhelming. Still, we’re here to tell you that there’s no single winning spot to make your roots – rather, you should choose somewhere to suit your vacation plans and reasons for visiting. If you’re looking to hit the theme parks, then International Drive is where you’ll want to be. For nightlife and culture, you couldn’t do much better than downtown Orlando. Or, to live like the locals, check out Eatonville. Wherever you choose to stay in the city, you’ll have a great time. Check out our list for further guidance on which area would be right for you. International Drive Whilst there’s much to see and do everywhere in the city, International Drive remains a popular tourist hotspot for its proximity to the city’s most famous attractions. Stay here, and you’ll be well within reach of top theme parks like Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and Aquatica. Though its theme parks are the area’s main draw, if you conduct a little research you’ll find ample reason to love this vibrant area of the city. Not unlike the ‘Vegas Strip’, the area offers clusters of hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions to choose from. From great entertainment districts to fun shopping opportunities, International Drive really has it all. Serving as a major tourist corridor since 1972, this area provides accommodation choices for all types of travellers. No matter what price range or style you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something to suit you. Travelling is made easy in this part of the city, with excellent bus services and even some hotels offering free shuttles to the main amusement parks. Whether you’re travelling with family or going solo, we recommend this spot for those who like to be in the center of all the action. Kissimmee Another great option for tourists is of course Kissimmee. A little further out from all the hustle and bustle, this area presents a great mix of nature and urban attractions to keep everybody happy. Whilst the area is still very close to Orlando’s most famous theme parks, you’ll find that there’s so much more to love about Kissimmee. From Fun Spot America to the Monument of States, there’s a lot to see here. Most visitors rent out condos or villas in gated communities, creating a relaxed vibe that is ideal for families and big groups. If you decide to go down this route, you’ll have access to the community park, clubhouse, and a common pool. A tried-and-true classic, there’s no going wrong when you stay in Kissimmee. Winter Park For those looking to explore a different side of the city, Winter Park may be your best bet. Once considered a winter resort, this charming area presents much to do for culture vultures and art lovers. For those with a thirst for knowledge, the area has the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, Cornell Fine Arts Museum and Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum amongst many others. It doesn’t stop there though – Winter Park is also a prime destination for nature lovers, with over 70 parks in the vicinity which host various events, festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or catch a late-night movie under the stars, you’ll never be bored in Winter Park. Staying in this area also means that you’ll still be super close to all those quintessential Orlando attractions, without feeling overwhelmed by them. Win-win! Eatonville If you’re looking for somewhere a little bit more relaxed, why try Eatonville? Located just a few miles north of the city, this area is often recognized for its unique history, as it was one of the first all-black self-governing municipalities in the United States. Today, this thriving cultural gem is a great place to stay in the city, offering something a little different from your typical Orlando vacation. Here, you’ll find fantastic one-of-kind cultural amenities, including the Zora Neale Hurston Museum and the Moseley House which are well worth the visit. Its dining and drinking scenes boast killer bars and restaurants – try southern-style fried fish at Soul Food Fantasy, or for something a little sweet, head over to DaJen Eats Café & Creamery. Offering a laidback ‘’live like the locals’’ experience, we love this spot because it allows us to see more of the area. Downtown Last but most certainly not least, we recommend downtown Orlando for those traveling without kids. Matching the vibrant energy of Winter Park, the city’s historic center is known as a total hub of cultural activity. Daytime attractions are definitely not far and few between; with the Amway Center, Lake Eola Park, and Wells’ Built Museum just a stone's throw away, there’s a lot to see here. Come nightfall, the area is fun and bustling with life. If you’re wondering about dining options (and let’s be real, why wouldn’t you be?) don’t worry – the area presents some of the best bars and restaurants in the city. Getting around the area is pretty simple – you can hail down passing cabs, check out the city’s metropolitan bus system, or just walk it. Never one to disappoint, we particularly love this area to stay in because it’s always reforming itself, coming up with cool and interesting new things to do. Crammed with iconic sites and bursting with fun, Orlando is well-recognized as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. A trip to the City Beautiful is a dream come true for many, so putting the right amount of research into where you stay is key. Whether you’re looking to hit the theme parks, visit the area’s best museums, or just relax, your chosen location will play heavily into your vacation. Of course, there isn’t one spot that is truly best for everyone – just one that is right for you. Wherever you choose to stay, just remember – the city is what you make of it. See the sites, discover new things, and most importantly, have fun! 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
Blog

5 Days in Orlando

With so much to see, do and experience in sunny Orlando, it should come as no surprise that the city is one of America’s top tourist destinations. The best things to do in the area run the gamut – from out-of-this-world fun to greatly educational. Those seeking a little adventure are sure to find it here – with famous theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios right at your fingertips, you’ll never be bored. Or, how about soaking up the sun at Orlando’s unique nature reserves? If you still have time to venture downtown, make sure to check out the fantastic cultural institutions in the area and grab a bite at some of the city’s best restaurants. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to find something for you. Still, don’t worry if it's all a little bit overwhelming – that's what we’re here for! If you’re planning to make the visit, check out our list of the best things to do in the area. Let’s get started! Day 1 - See The Sites Travelling can be exhausting for many, which is why we’re starting off with something a little more low-key. If you’re looking for a relaxed day trip to kick off your vacation in the City Beautiful, look no further than the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. As fascinating as it is engaging, this museum works to present a comprehensive view of space travel and aviation for a broad audience. The center is divided into ‘’Mission Zones’’, each focusing on different areas of space travel – from the Race to the Moon to the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, this place has all the bases covered. Still, if you’re coming to step into the shoes of a real astronaut, you won’t be disappointed. Perhaps the institute’s biggest draw, the institute’s Shuttle Launch Experience recreates a rocket’s takeoff into orbit. Offering a fantastic educational experience for those of all ages, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend our first afternoon in the city. Come evening time, we recommend checking out Universal CityWalk where the fun never stops coming. Drawing in the crowds all throughout the year, this popular tourist attraction is known for providing world-class entertainment, shopping and dining options of all kinds. Before grabbing a bite to eat, we recommend checking out some of the fun activities available; challenge your friends and family with a game of minigolf, catch a movie at the Cinemark theater, or even partake in a spot of karaoke – the choice is yours! This walkable entertainment district also boasts a wide variety of restaurants and dinner shows to choose from to keep everybody happy. Whether you’re looking for elevated American fare or easy quick service options, you’re sure to find it here. Great for those travelling with family, there’s a little something for everybody here. Day 2 - Hit the Theme Parks Of course, you can’t visit Orlando without checking out Magic Kingdom. Quite possibly the most famous theme park in the world, this legendary stop is not only a major part of the city’s identity, but plays into American identity as a whole. Bringing iconic Disney productions to life for generations, this place is often billed as ‘’the happiest place on earth’’ - and with good reason. To prepare for visiting, we recommend wearing your comfiest walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothes – and bringing lots of sunscreen! With over 40 rides, attractions and shopping destinations to choose from, there’s a whole lot to see here in just one day. Don’t worry about fitting it all in – just make sure you get to see your favorites! Remember to take some snaps to capture those great memories whilst you’re there. We recommend staying at the park until the evening time, since Disney runs a spectacular firework show over its famous Cinderella Castle – trust us when we say that you won’t want to miss it! Day 3 - Take a Break After a tiring day at the theme park, you might just be looking for something a little bit more relaxing. Well, look no further than the Disney Wilderness Preserve. Tucked away just south of the city, this hidden gem is the perfect place to take in the natural wonders of the area and enjoy a peaceful hike. With over 12, 000 acres of flatwoods and swamplands to be explored, you could easily spend an entire day here. Located on Everglades National Park, the site exhibits an entirely unique ecosystem currently found nowhere else on earth. Walking through the site, you’ll be able to enjoy over 1, 000 species of plants and animals, including 70 species of butterfly, 80 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 151 species of bird. Exceptionally serene and fascinating to explore, the place offers the perfect respite from the city. Day 4 - Try the Classics Now, you can’t go to Orlando and only visit one theme park. That’d be nuts, right? But how do you choose which one to make your way to next? Well, we kind of let the people do the work for us here. Standing as the most popular amusement park outside of the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios is a long-time favorite choice for visitors and locals alike. Perfect for all film and pop culture lovers, the park is famed for its fun entertainment industry theme. Universal is made up of eight different areas, each with their own unique theme. There’s a lot of ground to cover here – but we’re sure you can handle it! Exploring the park, you’ll find over 40 rides, attractions and live shows to choose from. No matter what your favorite flick may be, you’re sure to find something that’s right up your alley. Living up to its name, this place truly offers an entertainment experience that everybody can enjoy. Day 5 - Wind Down Enjoy the last day of your vacation by exploring the downtown area of the city. The historic center of Orlando presents an entirely different energy that’s definitely worth getting into. Forever lively and thriving with cultural activity, this place presents a great mixture of popular tourist attractions and hidden treasures at your disposal. If it’s museums that you’re after, then you won’t have to look too far – the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum and Wells' Built Museum will be right within walking distance. Or, if you’re a lover of the performed arts, the Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts provides world-class entertainment across a wide array of genres. Aside from what the area has to offer in the realm of culture, the neighborhood is brimming with great shopping opportunities, restaurants and bars to be discovered. Offering something a little different from the typical Orlando tourist experience, we love this spot for its ’'live like the locals’' vibe. Maybe five days doesn’t seem like a lot – but with the right amount of planning, you should be able to fit in everything, your way. 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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