Things to Do in Orlando When it Rains

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

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Orlando

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
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

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
a couple enjoying the museum of illusions
Blog

No-Cost Fun: Free Things to Do Near Museum of Illusions Orlando

Escaping Reality, Without Spending a Cent  Orlando’s Museum of Illusions is a playground for your brain—a place where gravity flips, rooms shrink, and photo ops never end. But step outside, and you’ll find even more surprises that won’t cost a penny. The whole area around ICON Park (where the museum sits) sparkles with free things to do. From lively art walks to peaceful green spaces and culture-filled corners, this stretch of International Drive is a goldmine for intrepid travelers, barefoot wanderers, and those who like their fun free. Whether you’ve got the whole gang in tow, you’re traveling solo, or you’re two lovebirds looking for a budget-friendly date, we’re sharing the very best activities close to the Museum of Illusions—none of which require breaking open your wallet.  Our favorite free attractions near the Museum of Illusions include:  ICON Park entertainment district  International Drive Public Art & Murals  I-Drive 360 Courtyard Live Music  Disney Springs  Lake Eola Park  Dr. Phillips Center Arts Plaza  Leu Gardens “Free Admission Days”  Universal CityWalk (parking after 6pm)  The Escape Game Orlando Mural & Plaza    Let the free Orlando adventure begin!  International Drive Public Art & Murals  If you’re a fan of street art, you’ll want to explore the colorful murals and playful installations scattered along International Drive, all within walking distance from the Museum of Illusions. The “I-Drive” corridor is Orlando’s fun zone, and the local government has commissioned a vibrant collection of public art that’s open, accessible, and perfect for your Instagram grid.  Keep your eyes peeled for the three-story “Greetings from Orlando” postcard mural, a huge splash of colors and Orlando icons. Down an adjacent alley, whimsical animal sculptures and abstract shapes form a path to creative photo spots. The “Selfie Wall” series takes things up a notch—these interactive installations were designed specifically for snapping the perfect vacation shot. Whether you’re posing with technicolor butterflies or snapping a selfie amidst retro cassette tapes, every corner is selfie-worthy.  Best of all, the greatest art discoveries are often the accidental ones. Duck into hidden corners or stroll behind the bus stops—there’s a surprise everywhere. No tickets required; just a curious spirit and your camera.  I-Drive 360 Courtyard Live Music  Music is practically in the air around International Drive, and the I-Drive 360 Courtyard is the beating heart of the action. This palm-shaded, open-air space right by ICON Park is a magnet for local musicians, emerging bands, and talented buskers—especially on weekends.  Grab a spot by the fountain or on one of the grassy knolls and enjoy an evening soundtrack of jazz, acoustic folk, and the occasional mariachi band. The vibe? Relaxed and lively, with families dancing, couples swaying, and music-lovers just soaking in the talent. On select Friday and Saturday nights, local event organizers host free outdoor concerts (bring a picnic or order takeout from surrounding eateries).  Many of the acts are up-and-coming talents, so you might say you saw them here first. If you value authentic, unscripted fun, you’ll love relaxing at the Courtyard—it’s like stumbling onto your own private music festival.  Disney Springs  A 15-minute drive from the Museum of Illusions, Disney Springs feels worlds away from the amusement park crowds. With no fee to enter or walk around, this vast entertainment complex offers a full afternoon (or evening) of delight and discovery.  What’s so special? Disney Springs is a feat of design, where each district delivers entirely different vibes—boho chic, industrial-cool, old Florida waterfront, and more. Street musicians, a cappella groups, and dance troupes deliver top-tier entertainment nightly, free for everyone. Ragtime pianists play outside Paddlefish, while pop-up DJs get crowds moving on the Boardwalk.  For parents, the LEGO Store’s outdoor building area is a winner. Creative types can window-shop at the many art galleries, or see world-class sand sculptures during seasonal festivals. For foodies, free samples sometimes appear outside Ghirardelli Chocolate or Amorette’s Patisserie (worth asking!). Even if all you do is check out the themed fountains, take in the lakeside sunset, or watch hot-air balloons rise at dusk, Disney Springs delivers magic—all without a park ticket.  Dr. Phillips Center Arts Plaza  Classical music, jazz, experimental dance—you’ll never believe so much culture is served up for free at the Dr. Phillips Center in downtown Orlando. Their Arts Plaza is an urban stage, featuring a year-round lineup of free outdoor concerts, pop-up theater, community festivals, and public art installations.  On a typical weekend, you might catch a salsa band serenading an impromptu dance party, kids belting out Broadway hits, or a seasoned jazz quartet on the sweeping patio. Bring a lawn chair or just lounge on the steps and let Orlando’s arts scene wash over you. From food truck nights to outdoor movie projections, there’s always something happening.  Even if you just pass through, the playful fountains and sleek architecture make it a fun, photogenic refuge after a day of museum hopping. Local tip: December’s “Free Family Festival” fills the streets with festive lights and performances—don’t miss it if you’re in town for the holidays.  Leu Gardens “Free Admission Days”  If you love being surrounded by blooming camellias, palm groves, and winding rose arbors, Leu Gardens in Orlando offers pure bliss. And if you time your visit right, you can explore the entire 50-acre garden for free. The first Monday of every month is complimentary admission day—perfect for travelers on a budget.  Wander beneath ancient oaks dripping with Spanish moss, pause at peaceful koi ponds, and smell fresh roses as you explore themed gardens highlighting everything from tropical bromeliads to edible vegetable plots. This is a great spot for nature photographers (bring your camera for butterfly close-ups and hidden garden sculptures) and romantics alike. Benches abound for quiet contemplation or lively conversation.  On free days, you can also explore the charming historic Leu House Museum, usually closed to walk-ins. Kids love the butterfly garden and the resident chickens, while adults treasure a moment to slow down. Don’t forget to check their website for seasonal events—flower shows, outdoor yoga, and art fairs often coincide with free admission dates.  Universal CityWalk (Parking After 6pm)  Universal CityWalk, a buzzing promenade just outside Universal Orlando’s gates, is home to wild décor, massive neon signs, and nightly fun. The secret? Parking is free for everyone after 6pm (except Halloween Horror Nights), so you can enjoy the area without buying theme park tickets.  CityWalk’s main paths are always thrumming with energy, with giant fire pits, street entertainment, and impromptu dance contests. You can window shop at novelty megastores, enjoy the choreographed “singing” fountains, or listen to live bands for free from the open plazas. The ambiance leans exuberant—expect a happy-hour block party vibe and no shortage of people-watching.  If you’re feeling peckish, pop into Voodoo Doughnut just to see their outrageous pink décor and wild doughnut displays (you might even catch free samples during slower periods). Couples will love the Sambil Bridge for stellar sunset snaps, and families can let off steam with the nightly splash pad. CityWalk after dark? Free, safe, and absolutely classic Orlando.  The Escape Game Orlando Mural & Plaza  Hidden behind the main hustle of International Drive, The Escape Game Orlando has transformed its entrance plaza into a lively, free-to-visit hub for public art and games. It’s a relaxed spot, whether you’re passing through or hanging out before dinner.  The ever-changing outdoor “Challenge Wall” features mind-bending puzzles for visitors to solve, while whimsical murals provide both photo ops and brain teasers. Local artists added illusions and optical tricks to some walls—snap a selfie from just the right angle for Riley-worthy perspective shots. Sit on the colorful steps, try out a new puzzle, and watch as families and groups giggle their way through the interactive clues.  Occasionally, the plaza hosts public escape game demonstrations or free scavenger hunts. Even if you just want to chill outdoors, it’s a clever, alternative stop that will please puzzle-lovers of all ages (without touching your bank account).  Wrapping It All Up: Orlando—No Wallet Needed  Orlando’s International Drive isn’t just for thrill rides and big-ticket attractions. From splashy street art to free music, lush gardens, and festive promenades, this corner of the city brims with activities where the only thing you’ll spend is time. Whether you’re capping off an afternoon at the Museum of Illusions, planning a whole day hopping from place to place, or searching for a little green space to unwind, you’ll find plenty of local color ready to be discovered—and enjoyed for free.    Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and browse our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems.  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! 
Young Boy in Aquarium Tunnel at SEA LIFE Orlando
Blog

Unmissable Free Fun Near SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando

Dive into Orlando’s top free experiences—all within reach of SEA LIFE Aquarium’s front doors!

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.