You’ve braved the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, snapped selfies with legends of the swamp, and maybe even hand-fed a baby alligator. Now what? Turns out, Gatorland sits in a sweet spot—perfect for hopping to even more wild, whimsical, and just plain fun Orlando attractions. Whether you’re looking to continue the thrills, keep the kids entertained, or cool off with a sweet treat, there’s plenty to love just minutes from those gator-filled lagoons. Here’s where to go near Gatorland for a day that keeps the surprises coming!
Our favorite things to do near Gatorland include:
- The Orlando Eye
- Madame Tussauds Orlando
- SEA LIFE Aquarium
- WonderWorks
- Fun Spot America
- Museum of Illusions Orlando
- Chocolate Kingdom
- Island H2O Water Park
- Exploring Hunter’s Creek Trail
- Snacking at The Florida Mall
The Orlando Eye: Soar High, See It All
After a morning with the gators, why not swap marshy vistas for sky-high panoramas? The Orlando Eye takes the classic Ferris wheel concept and super-sizes it—all glossy pods, futuristic design, and 400 feet of jaw-dropping views. Step inside your air-conditioned capsule and you’ll see Orlando laid out like a pop-up map: the theme parks, glimmering lakes, and, on a clear day, views stretching all the way out to Cape Canaveral.
We think the vibe here is part thrill, part romance—especially as sunset paints the sky pink and gold. Each pod rides smooth and slow, so there’s plenty of time to soak it all in, pose for group photos, or simply spot Gatorland’s green sprawl from above. The Eye is and always will be a crowd-pleaser—kids love the gentle ride, grandparents adore the views, and couples nab that perfect skyline snapshot. Whether you go by day or after dark, it’s the perfect punctuation to your Orlando adventure.
Madame Tussauds Orlando: Pose with Legends
You’ve hung out with alligators; now it’s time to rub shoulders with superstars—at least, in wax form. Madame Tussauds is walking distance from the Orlando Eye, making this a seamless hop on your day out. The collection here spans Hollywood legends, sports heroes, pop royalty, political icons, and (naturally) a few superheroes thrown in for good measure.
What makes it special? Here, YOU set the pace: take a selfie with Taylor Swift, challenge Shaq to a free throw, or shake hands with Abraham Lincoln. The sets are imaginative, interactive, and fabulous for photos—so come prepared with your best silly poses or go full glam. Staff are always up for sharing trivia (and tips for the silliest group shots). We love that every visit feels different, so even previous guests will find fresh faces and backdrops ready for a starring role.
SEA LIFE Aquarium: Dive Into Another World
SEA LIFE Aquarium: Dive Into Another World
Swap the swamp for the sea—without leaving Orlando! SEA LIFE Aquarium plunges you deep into underwater exploration, with spellbinding tanks that bring you nose to nose with sharks, glowing jellyfish, playful rays, and technicolor reef fish. The highlight? A glass tunnel that turns you into an underwater explorer as schools of fish swirl overhead.
SEA LIFE does an awesome job blending education and entertainment. Wide-eyed little ones can join scavenger hunts and touch pop-up exhibits, while adults enjoy the calming, otherworldly beauty of each display. Ambassadors stroll the exhibits answering questions—so you’re never too old to learn a weird fact or two about ocean life. We always leave feeling both wowed and weirdly soothed. If you’ve got ocean dreamers or animal fans in your crew, don’t skip it.
WonderWorks: Where Science Gets Seriously Fun
On International Drive, only a short drive north of Gatorland, you'll spot a massive upside-down mansion. No, you’re not seeing things—WonderWorks makes sure of that! Inside, science, imagination and play come together in the quirkiest way possible. Think hands-on earthquake simulators, virtual reality sports, an indoor ropes course, and a full-on laser tag arena.
What sets WonderWorks apart is its joyful, madcap energy. Each floor bubbles with kinetic chaos: kids get windblown in the hurricane shack, adults learn their actual weight on other planets, and even teens break a sweat at the dance simulator. Whether your gang loves head-scratchers or high-energy action, everyone finds their favorite exhibit. If you’re traveling with anyone aged five to 95, it’s a guaranteed hit.
Fun Spot America: Classic Thrills, Sunshine Style
Craving more adventure after Gatorland? Roll over to Fun Spot America, just up the road. This outdoor amusement park captures that classic carnival vibe—with Orlando upgrades, of course. Go-karts zip around multi-level tracks, coasters twist and loop, and the old-school arcade buzzes with every beep and bell.
It’s unfiltered, family-style fun. Hop on the White Lightning wooden coaster for an extra dose of adrenaline, or spin your way sky-high on the Ferris wheel for views and giggles. Lines move quickly, prices are wallet-friendly, and staffers keep spirits sky-high. If you’re wrangling thrill-seekers, keep an eye out for the SkyCoaster—a cross between bungee jumping and hang-gliding that earns instant bragging rights. You’ll leave grinning ear to ear, and with shoes dusted in powdered sugar from fresh funnel cakes.
Museum of Illusions Orlando: Mind-Bending Magic
Shake up your afternoon with a dose of trickery at Museum of Illusions, just a hop away from your favorite theme parks. Here, nothing is quite as it seems: rooms appear to defy gravity, faces morph right in front of you, and optical illusions turn everyday scenes into mind-bending photo ops.
We especially love this spot for its interactive flavor. You’re not just looking at pictures—you’re leaping into the exhibits, posing upside-down, or becoming part of artwork. The vibe is all high-spirited laughs and wide-eyed wonder, making it a big win for families, groups of friends, or couples on the hunt for quirky photos. You’ll leave with a camera roll full of dazzling trick shots—and a few new party tricks to impress your friends back home.
Chocolate Kingdom: Make a Sweet Escape
Chocolate fans, unite! Just minutes from Gatorland, Chocolate Kingdom serves up hands-on tours that take you from cacao bean to dreamy dessert. Knowledgeable guides walk you through the entire process: you’ll see real beans roasting, catch whiffs of melting chocolate, and maybe sneak a sample from the line.
Here, the star attraction is the customizable chocolate bar. You’ll choose your own fillings (think pretzels, sea salt, gummy bears, or even bacon), then watch your creation assembled before your eyes. The aroma inside is reason enough to linger, but the real magic comes from digging into your warm, freshly made treat. Chocolate Kingdom combines Willy Wonka charm with education, and it’s great for both families and date afternoons. One visit and you’ll look at your next candy bar with a whole new level of respect.
Island H2O Water Park: The Coolest Place to Make a Splash
Island H2O Water Park: The Coolest Place to Make a Splash
Orlando’s sun is no joke, so beat the heat in style at Island H2O Water Park, just a few minutes’ drive from Gatorland. Here, ultra-modern slides snake around palm-lined pools, wave machines get your heart racing, and splash zones keep kiddos busy for hours. Tech-savvy guests will especially appreciate the park’s in-app connectivity—control the playlist, score points, and unlock surprises right from your phone.
The park has a laid-back, vacation energy. Lazy rivers let you float your cares away, while daring adventurers test out gravity-defying slides. There are private cabanas if you want a quiet retreat, or energetic DJ sets if you crave a pool party vibe. Don’t forget the waterproof camera—you’ll want to remember every sunny, silly moment.
Hunter’s Creek Trail: Reconnect with Nature
Ready for a breather from theme-park crowds? Slip away to Hunter’s Creek Trail, just a stone’s throw from Gatorland. This scenic network of paths winds through one of Orlando’s most peaceful neighborhoods, offering a change of pace (and scenery) from the splashy excitement nearby. Well-maintained walkways—perfect for walking, jogging, or a relaxed bike ride—slice through palm groves, past glimmering lakes, and under shady trees.
We love how flexible this trail system is. You can go for a quick stroll (there are plenty of benches dotted along the way if you want to stop and soak in that Florida sunshine) or make a proper morning of it. Early risers are treated to all kinds of wildlife, from wading birds and turtles to (harmless) little gopher tortoises. If you’re visiting with dogs, you’ll find pet-friendly spaces, too!
The Florida Mall: Snack, Shop, and Chill Out Indoors
Ready for a little retail therapy or an air-conditioned escape? The Florida Mall is just a short drive from Gatorland and delivers on all fronts—nearly 300 stores, spots for every craving, and activities for both big and little shoppers. With sleek, modern corridors and a bright, buzzed-up energy, the mall is as much a people-watching hub as it is a shopping mecca.
What makes it a standout? First, the food scene is top-notch. Treat yourself to a sweet mango slushie at Boba Tea House, grab a fresh-to-order empanada at La Granja, or go bold with a scoop from the vibrant Carlo’s Bakery (their cannoli are always a hit). Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, alligator plushies for the kids, or your next favorite vacation meal, the mall’s mix of national brands and one-of-a-kind finds ensures everyone leaves happy—and a little more Orlando-ed.
Orlando serves up a medley of unforgettable experiences just steps from Gatorland. Be it sky-high views, mind-bending museums, old-school amusements, or quiet slices of Florida wilderness, there’s something to spark every traveler’s curiosity. So, which stop will you choose next?
Enjoyed this? Check out our Guide to the Museum of Illusion or Things to do in Kissimmee
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