Squad Goals: The Ultimate Orlando Adventures With Friends

Planning an Orlando getaway with friends? Here’s where the memories happen.

Published: March 9, 2026
Friends at Sunset

Orlando with friends? Now that’s a recipe for wild stories, rowdy group selfies, and the kind of laughter that gets you kicked out of quiet zones. This city is packed with jaw-dropping attractions, quirky detours, and experiences your crew will be talking about long after the vacation ends. Forget splitting up—these activities are built for sharing the fun, cranking up the adventure, and making sure every single person in your group has the time of their lives. Let’s map out your Orlando group adventure, from rocket science to reptile wrangling and beyond! 

Our favorite things to do with friends in Orlando include: 

  • Kennedy Space Center 
  • Congo River Adventure Golf 
  • The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show 
  • Gatorland 
  • Orlando Magic Ticket at the Kia Center 
  • Madame Tussauds Orlando 
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium 
  • Universal CityWalk Orlando 
  • ICON Park 
  • Lake Eola Park 

Kennedy Space Center: For the Dreamers and Stargazers 

If your friend group has equal parts space nerds and thrill-seekers, the Kennedy Space Center is a mind-blowing day out. The vibe here? Pure awe. Giant rockets greet you before you even enter, and the adventure continues with epic shuttle launches, astronaut encounters, and interactive simulators. The sense of ambition is contagious; suddenly you’re all lining up to test your skills in the Shuttle Launch Experience—cue the “can we do that again?” cries. 

For groups, the best part is exploring together: debate whether you’d actually volunteer for a Mars mission, crack up at each other’s attempts to talk like a real astronaut, and capture that squad shot with the Atlantis shuttle in the background. The setting is grand, but it’s the little moments—mission badges, space ice cream, inside jokes over who’d survive on the ISS—that make it unforgettable. 

Congo River Adventure Golf: Mini Golf, Major Competition 

Hear us out: nothing turns friends into friendly rivals faster than a wild mini golf course. Congo River Adventure Golf isn’t your regular putting green. Think waterfalls, caves, lush tropical plants, and even live alligators to feed (for the brave!). There are hidden gems and challenges around every corner. 

It’s the perfect setting for those “loser buys ice cream” wagers and wild photo ops. Whether you’re a pro or completely new to the game, the course spirals from hilarity to high-fives with every hole. No need to rush—bask in the Florida sun, celebrate your holes-in-one, and try out the extra scavenger hunt built into the course for another layer of fun. If your friend group loves laid-back competition and quirky activities, this place delivers. 

The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show: Eat, Laugh, Repeat 

Dinner plus a show is always fun, but The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show raises the stakes by throwing improv comedy and jaw-dropping illusions into the mix. The atmosphere is electric; the magician’s antics have everyone cackling, and audience participation means your friends could be the stars of the night—voluntarily or not. 

What makes this experience fantastic for groups? Unlimited pizza, salad, popcorn, and drinks (yep, including beer and wine). The jokes come fast, the tricks are genuinely astonishing, and the environment is relaxed enough for even the shyest person to relax into full-on belly laughs. It’s an all-ages crowd, but the humor lands with adults and teens alike. If your crew appreciates a night of food, magic, and lots of spontaneous clapping, this is a top pick. 

Gatorland: Wild Encounters You’ll Reminisce About Forever 

Ready to swap theme park queues for wild reptile encounters? Gatorland is pure Florida: hundreds of gators and crocs, daring zipline courses right over their enclosures, and stunt shows that get the adrenaline flowing. The park’s “Screamin’ Gator Zip Line” is a group favorite—imagine zipping overhead with your friends yelling encouragement. 

Don’t miss the chance to feed some baby alligators, snap a group selfie with a gator handler, or race through the swamp on the off-road Stompin’ Gator adventure. The park is friendly, the staff love to share fun animal facts, and everywhere you turn, you’ll hear the sound of “whoa, did you see that?”. Gatorland is the kind of experience you’ll be texting about long after you’ve left the sunshine state. 

Orlando Magic Ticket at the Kia Center: Team Spirit Unleashed

Basketball Hoop

Ready for a night where your group can shout, chant, and high-five like seasoned fans? Catching an Orlando Magic game at the Kia Center is pure excitement—the crowd is buzzing, the music is pumping, and every dunk is a reason to leap out of your seat. Whether your crew is full of lifelong basketball fans or total newcomers, the energy in the arena is electric. 

Beyond the game itself, there are group-friendly snacks, halftime entertainment, and loads of opportunities for fun photos in team gear. Cheer together, heckle the rivals in good fun, and experience the unity that only live sports can bring. It’s a home run (wait, wrong sport) for making memories together. 

Madame Tussauds Orlando: Superstar Moments With Your Crew 

Ever wanted to pose with Aquaman, rub shoulders with Ryan Reynolds, or jam with Taylor Swift—all in the same hour? Madame Tussauds Orlando makes it happen. The wax figures are surprisingly lifelike, and you’ll be staging group press conferences, movie scenes, and band photos in no time. 

This is an ultra-social spot. Pose together, compare selfie poses, and see who can recreate the most convincing celebrity handshake. The atmosphere is silly but oh-so-shareable—the staff are happy to snap group photos, and there’s always a new area around the corner (superheroes, sports legends, political figures). If you want fun group shots and superstar energy, it doesn’t get better. 

SEA LIFE Aquarium: Underwater Worlds With Friends 

Trade the heat for cool, blue tranquility at SEA LIFE Aquarium. The highlight? A 360-degree ocean tunnel where sharks, rays, and colorful fish swirl overhead—cue that “Finding Nemo!” excitement from everyone. The tanks are full of surprising sea creatures, from graceful jellyfish to playful turtles. 

Wander together, test your animal knowledge, and say hi to the rescued sea turtles. Interactive touch pools mean there’s always a hands-on moment for the curious, and the informative guides are always up for a chat. It’s peaceful, but with enough “look at that!” moments to keep everyone entertained, whether your friends are ocean aficionados or just in it for the vibes. 

Universal CityWalk Orlando: Where the Night Comes Alive 

If your group loves evenings out, Universal CityWalk Orlando is a playground of restaurants, bars, mini-golf, live music, and dance floors. Think legendary bites from the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium (get the milkshakes!), classic burgers at Hard Rock Café, and karaoke at CityWalk’s Rising Star. 

You’ll vibe to free live music, indulge in impulse shopping, and maybe dare each other into a karaoke duet or two. The whole place hums with energy—ideal for friend groups ready to roam, eat, and laugh late into the night. No park ticket required; it’s the city’s ultimate group hangout spot. 

ICON Park: Rides, Bites, and Views

The Orlando Eye

ICON Park is a pick-your-own-adventure hub that checks every box. Hop on The Orlando Eye for city views in your own group pod, then bounce between attractions like Madame Tussauds and SEA LIFE Aquarium (they’re only steps away!). Hungry? Try Yard House for great share plates and over 100 beers on tap, all in a contemporary setting perfect for groups. 

There are outdoor games, music, and a friendly, upbeat vibe that turns everyone into the group planner. Snap photos under the giant wheel lit up at night, or kick back with cocktails at the lawn bar. Want more? Arcade City’s retro-gaming selection promises a flurry of competitive nostalgia. 

Lake Eola Park: Classic Orlando with a Chill Twist 

Not every adventure has to be pulse-pounding. Lake Eola Park is Orlando’s meet-up zone for gentle vibes with a city view. Rent paddle swans for some aquatic shenanigans, wander the loop trail with coffee in hand, or grab seats for the Sunday farmer’s market to sample local bites. 

The park is classic Florida with skyline photo ops, laid-back charm, and plenty of space for group picnics and goofy photo shoots by the fountain. Musicians play along the path, and you’ll often stumble upon impromptu performances or art markets, turning a simple stroll into an Orlando-only moment. There’s always an energy that makes even lazy afternoons feel special here. It’s the perfect palate cleanser after a string of high-octane days—a chance for your group to unwind, laugh about the day’s adventures, and snap a few sun-dappled selfies with that sparkling lake as your backdrop. 

 

There you have it—an Orlando friend adventure built for every type of group. Whether you’re chasing chills on a zip line above alligators, hunting for the best group selfie among the stars, or just soaking in lakeside views, this city proves it’s more than just roller coasters (though those are a blast, too). Orlando is a place where every laugh, inside joke, and shared plate becomes part of your group’s story. So, grab your squad, start plotting your perfect trip, and get ready for unforgettable fun. The only hard part? Picking where to start! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Adventurous Things to do in Orlando or Best Museums in Orlando 

 

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Orlando in May: Sunshine, Thrills & Unexpected Surprises

Orlando in May offers some of Central Florida’s best weather—with balmy days, cool breezes, and longer stretches of sunshine perfect for playing outside. From the world’s wildest rollercoasters and splashy water parks to local wildlife tours and quirky roadside eats, this city has way more to offer than mouse ears and wizard capes. Not sure where to start? We’ve created the ultimate May to-do list that mixes adrenaline, culture, and a dash of that classic Florida flavor. Whether you’re traveling with the family, surprising your partner, or just escaping for a little solo sunshine, you’ll find plenty of surprises, secret spots, and fun festival vibes around every turn. Let’s make your Orlando trip unforgettable.  Our favorite things to do in Orlando in May include:  Kennedy Space Center  Gatorland  The Orlando Eye  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium  Fun Spot America  WonderWorks Orlando  Strolling Lake Eola Park  Island H2O Water Park  Daytona International Speedway Track Tour  Visiting a colorful local farmers market  Kennedy Space Center: Out of This World Adventures  You don’t have to be a rocket scientist or a history nerd to be blown away by the Kennedy Space Center. This sprawling spaceport brings the excitement of human space exploration to life with towering rockets, moon landing memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that make you feel like you’re right there on launch day. The blend of history, technology, and larger-than-life adventure makes this a total must for anyone visiting Orlando in May.  What’s special in May? The weather is still pleasant enough to linger outside, so don’t skip the Rocket Garden or the Shuttle Launch Experience—which simulates what it’s like to blast off into orbit (spoiler: it’s wild and the perfect adrenaline kick). Also keep an eye out for real launches; it doesn’t get more Florida than watching a rocket soar overhead on a sunny afternoon.  Walking the complex, you’ll see actual spacecraft that have orbited Earth, touch a moon rock, and maybe even meet an astronaut. The “Heroes & Legends” area celebrates space pioneers, while the Atlantis shuttle exhibit is breathtaking—kids and adults alike will gasp seeing the real orbiter up close.  If you’re traveling to the coast, budget at least half a day for Kennedy, and afterward, swing by nearby Cocoa Beach for fresh seafood and sun-bleached boardwalk vibes. Space and surf? That’s a May day well spent.  The Orlando Eye: Sky-High City Views  Let’s be honest: sometimes, you just want to see it all from up high. Enter the Orlando Eye, a gigantic observation wheel that gives you sweeping panoramas across the city, the lakes, and, on clear days, all the way to the Kennedy Space Center. Each climate-controlled capsule offers a peaceful, 20-minute ride—ideal for enjoying Orlando’s springtime sunsets or starting your day with a morning spin.  Why do we love it in May? Mornings and early evenings are comfortable—no muggy midday heat—so you can soak in views without breaking a sweat. Plus, the landscapes are lush and green, and if you time it right, you’ll catch the city’s famous golden-hour glow.  Feeling fancy? The area around the Eye, ICON Park, explodes with fun: open-air bars, live music, funky shops, and restaurants galore. Pair your ride with a plate of sushi from Yak & Yeti or a local craft beer on the patio at The Wheelhouse Market. With soaring views and good eats, you have a picture-perfect May adventure.  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Florida’s Wildest Waters  Orlando is miles from the ocean, but you can get face-to-fin with some of the most fascinating sea creatures at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. It’s a cool, kid-friendly sanctuary on International Drive, complete with winding tunnels and floor-to-ceiling tanks that immerse you in the underwater world.  Why visit in May? Many of the sea life residents are extra-active in slightly warmer weather, and the temperature-controlled setting makes for a refreshing break if your crew needs to escape the midday sun (or one of those surprise spring showers).  Kids love the touch pools with friendly starfish and anemones, while the main attraction—the 360-degree underwater tunnel—lets you stroll among swirling sharks, graceful rays, and vibrant schools of tropical fish. We especially adore the conservation exhibits, which showcase rescue efforts for local turtles and provide hands-on ocean science.  With daily feedings, educational “Dive Talks,” and up-close encounters, the aquarium is so much more than just a rainy-day backup plan—it’s an outright must for animal lovers and families. Afterwards, grab a tropical gelato from one of the many International Drive dessert shops nearby, and you’re living your best Orlando life.  Fun Spot America: Classic Thrills & Carnival Feels  In a city of massive attractions, Fun Spot America stands out with its throwback charm and gentler pricing. This open-air amuseument park is a local favorite for good reason: loads of rides, America’s longest go-kart tracks, old-school arcade games, and a festive atmosphere where you can let loose, laugh loud, and fill up on funnel cake.  May’s balmy evenings mean you can soak up the park’s neon-lit rides without summer’s sticky crowds. From white-knuckled wooden coasters and spinning tea cups to midway games and bumper boats, there’s genuinely something for every energy level and age group here.  What makes Fun Spot special is its friendly staff and easygoing vibe. Is it wild? Sometimes! But there’s no pressure—go as hard or as chill as you want. Try the Extreme Go-Kart Tracks if you love adrenaline, or catch your breath with a slow ride on the SkyCoaster, which swings you high above the park for epic city views.  Hungry? Don’t miss the fresh lemonade, footlong hot dogs, and cinnamon-sugar churros. If you’re in the International Drive area, this is your spot for old-fashioned fun that promises big smiles without breaking the bank.  Strolling Lake Eola Park: The Heart of Orlando  Searching for a slice of “real” Orlando? You’ll find it at Lake Eola Park, smack in the middle of downtown. Come May, this lakeside oasis bursts into bloom with flowerbeds, emerald lawns, and rainbow-colored swan boats gliding across the water.  Spend a lazy morning picnicking under the shade of ancient oaks, then wander the walking trail to spot the park’s resident black and white swans. On Sundays, the Orlando Farmers Market pops up by the water with stalls selling fresh fruit, handmade crafts, and quirky local eats. Grab a flaky pastry or a smoothie, then lounge by the lakeshore stage—there’s often live music or an art show to keep things festive.  Lake Eola is the city’s favorite place to unwind: locals walk their pugs, practice yoga on sun-soaked lawns, and sip cold brew at World of Beer’s outdoor patio. It’s perfect for people-watching and soaking up Orlando’s gentle spring spirit.  Coming in May? Arrive at sunset when the city skyline glows gold and the swan boats quietly drift in. Pure relaxation, guaranteed.  Island H2O Water Park: Splash Into Summer  Orlando doesn’t get much more summer-ready than a trip to Island H2O Water Park. As the heat rises in May, few experiences match the pure fun of water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools under the Florida sun. This high-energy park combines traditional water adventures with trendy tech: slides with selfie cameras, DJ zones, and interactive light shows to amp up the atmosphere.  What makes Island H2O so appealing this time of year? May means the crowds are thinner and the lines are shorter. Start your day on the high-speed Drop Down slide, float the lazy river with friends, then chill in a cabana with frozen tropical mocktails. The kids’ play area, with mini slides and splash pads, is best-in-class.  Every slide and attraction lets you customize your own playlist, take wild action photos, and even win points for prizes (so, yes, you can claim bragging rights on social). Lifeguards are everywhere and the park is spotless, ensuring a full day of cool, safe fun.  For a local tip, grab a loaded nacho bowl from Megabytes or a fresh mango lemonade from Splash Snacks. You’ll cool off, fuel up, and be ready for another round on the water coaster.  Daytona International Speedway Track Tour: Feel the Need for Speed  Motorsports fans, this one’s for you. The Daytona International Speedway—just an hour’s drive from Orlando—offers up-close tours that let you step onto the famed track, explore the pits, and even climb atop the podium for champion photos.  May is one of our favorite months to visit: the weather’s perfect for exploring the outdoor sections, and you avoid both the heavy summer crowds and main race weekends (meaning you can take your time, ask questions, and enjoy extra access).  Tours vary in length and focus, but all deliver heart-pounding history and real behind-the-scenes glimpses of 60+ years of racing legends. Imagine standing on the track’s steep, banked turns or walking through the garages where pit crews changed tires in seconds. NASCAR fans can quiz guides on favorite drivers or even peek inside the famous “Daytona 500” winner’s circle.  Finish your day with a stop at the Speedway’s massive souvenir shop for a t-shirt or a model car, then head into downtown Daytona Beach for fresh-caught grilled shrimp at The Oyster Pub—grab a patio seat if the weather’s fine.  Visit a Colorful Local Farmers Market: Taste Orlando’s Fresh Flavors  Nothing says “Florida spring” like a morning at a local farmers market, and May is when Orlando’s fruit, flowers, and homegrown specialties reach their peak. Each neighborhood—from Winter Park to Audubon Park to College Park—has its own bustling scene, where vendors pile tables with strawberries, avocados, artisan cheese, pastries, and Florida wildflower honey.  We recommend the Winter Park Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday in a converted brick train depot. Grab a coffee from Lineage and a melt-in-your mouth cheddar biscuit from Olde Hearth Bread Company, then stroll the stalls for tropical plants, fresh herbs, and unique crafts.  Many markets feature live music, chef demos, or pop-up food trucks. It’s as local as it gets—just follow the lines and you’ll find the market’s famous smoked fish dip or a cup of hand-squeezed orange juice in no time.  Visit early for the best selection, bring a reusable bag, and ask vendors about what’s in season—many offer samples, making this an edible adventure you won’t want to miss. There’s no better way to taste Orlando in May.    No matter your pace or priorities, Orlando in May delivers a sun-kissed mix of outdoor fun, thrill rides, hands-on science, and pure local flavor. Whether you’re riding a zipline above gators, then cooling down with a lakeside market picnic, or swapping theme park lines for an air-conditioned deep dive into space, the city is at its playful best with spring around every corner. So grab your flip-flops, sunscreen, and sense of adventure—your best Orlando memories are waiting.    Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and discover brilliant birthdays in the city  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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