So, you’ve channeled your inner explorer and snapped unforgettable photos at Lion Country Safari—up close with giraffes, zebras, and perhaps even a sunbathing lion or two. But you’re not ready for the adventure to end just yet. Good news: there’s plenty of Orlando excitement within easy reach, from out-of-this-world space museums and quirky wildlife parks to dazzling aquariums and next-level attractions for families. Whether you’re hungry for history or looking to blow off steam with some high-energy fun, this corner of Central Florida is full of surprises. Here’s how to take your day from wild to outright legendary!
Our favorite things to do near Lion Country Safari include:
- Kennedy Space Center
- Fun Spot America
- Gatorland
- WonderWorks
- SEA LIFE Aquarium
- Island H2O Water Park
- The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show
- Museum of Illusions
- LEGOLAND Florida
- Exploring West Palm Beach
Kennedy Space Center: Blast Off from the Everyday
Just over an hour from the lions, the Kennedy Space Center takes you from safari straight into the cosmos. This is far more than a museum—you’ll walk beneath towering rocket boosters, stand in awe of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and even touch a real moon rock. The atmosphere is electric, with families gathering around astronaut suits, kids marveling at Saturn V rockets, and immersive exhibits bringing space exploration to life. Don’t miss the launch simulators, which rattle and shake you into orbit while staying safely on Earth.
For maximum impact, try to time your visit with a live rocket launch—there’s nothing like seeing (and hearing) a real spacecraft lift off. Guided tours offer behind-the-scenes stories, and Mission Control audio keeps the excitement going throughout. The mix of history, technology, and wonder makes this a standout stop that will have everyone thinking a little bigger on the ride home.
Fun Spot America: Old-School Thrills with a Florida Twist
After you’ve snapped selfies with safari royalty, keep the adrenaline pumping at Fun Spot America, just a short drive away. This is a classic amusement park with something for everyone—imagine squeal-inducing rollercoasters, retro midway games, and plenty of kid-approved rides. You won’t find any “wait hours for a ride” stress here; it’s a laid-back spot where you can actually run from one coaster to the next without breaking a sweat. The freedom is exhilarating, and it gives Fun Spot that homegrown, all-smiles energy.
The park’s signature White Lightning coaster is a wooden monster that delivers classic bumps and enough airtime to make you laugh out loud. Meanwhile, the Ferris wheel gifts you sky-high views of the Orlando area—a sunset spin here is pure magic. There’s also a go-kart track that’s so twisty and competitive, you’ll swear you’re in the Daytona 500. Add arcade treats and sweet funnel cakes, and you’ll power through any safari-size hunger pangs. Bring a camera—between goofy family moments and neon-lit night rides, you’ll want to relive this day again and again.
Gatorland: More Scales, More Smiles
Think you’ve seen all of Florida’s wild side at Lion Country Safari? Gatorland, “The Alligator Capital of the World,” cranks things up a notch. Here, it’s all about jaw-snapping reptiles—giant alligators, rare white ‘gators, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a petting zoo with baby critters cuter than you’d expect. Take a stroll down the boardwalks, and you’ll see hundreds of alligators lounging, swimming, and occasionally leaping for snacks during the legendary Jumping Gator Show.
But Gatorland is more than just a parade of powerful jaws; the park has a quirky, Floridian charm that puts everyone at ease. Little ones can feed birds in the parakeet aviary, while giggle-filled splash zones offer a welcome break from the midday heat. If you’re in the mood for thrills, try the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line—soar right over the alligator pens and give your vacation stories some guaranteed edge. It’s immersive, offbeat, and wildly entertaining: a must for anyone who wants a true taste of Florida fun.
WonderWorks: Science, Smiles, and a Side of Silly
WonderWorks: Science, Smiles, and a Side of Silly
Swap animal antics for hands-on experiments at WonderWorks, Orlando’s upside-down science mansion. The very building sparks curiosity—its inverted architecture tells you right off the bat you’re in for a quirky experience. Inside, the fun multiplies fast: think 100+ interactive exhibits designed to delight both kids and grown-ups. Test your reflexes on virtual sports, lie on a bed of nails if you dare, and get your mind whirling with puzzles, illusions, and brain-bending optical tricks.
WonderWorks is ideal for families who want to mix giggle-worthy moments with learning. Electric exhibits let you “touch” lightning, earthquake simulators shake up the adventure, and 4D rides blur the boundaries between reality and pure imagination. The bubble lab, in particular, tends to be a huge hit—prepare to get soapy! And don’t forget to catch a family-friendly magic show upstairs if you want some dinner-theatre razzle dazzle. Leave with stories, laughs, and a new appreciation for how zany science can be.
SEA LIFE Aquarium: Dive Into Watery Worlds
Trade the savanna for the sea at SEA LIFE Aquarium, where Orlando’s best underwater escapes are all under one roof. This is the spot to unwind after a big day outside: wander through glass tunnels as sharks, stingrays, and shoals of tropical fish glide right above your head. Little explorers get close-up views of seahorses and starfish—while grown-ups will appreciate the quietly mesmerizing jellyfish displays.
What makes SEA LIFE shine is its focus on interactivity: touch tanks, feeding sessions, and behind-the-scenes tours bring you face-to-face with aquatic life. The playful vibe, bright colors and soothing aquatic views make it equally perfect for young kids and anyone seeking a little breathing room between big-ticket theme parks. Plus, it sits in the bustling ICON Park district, so great food and entertainment are only a few steps away if you need to refuel (try the fish and chips for a thematic—and tasty—treat).
Island H2O Water Park: Slip, Slide, and Sunshine
When the Florida sun is blazing, nothing beats cooling off at Island H2O Water Park. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill splash zone; picture high-speed water slides, a wave pool for boogie boarding, and a lazy river where you can float your worries away. The vibe? Pure vacation—all smiles, music pulsing from speakers, and a contagiously cheerful staff helping everyone have fun.
Island H2O isn’t just about thrills. Each ride connects via the park’s unique app, which lets you queue up virtually (hello, more pool time!) and win points for splashy selfies. Lounge cabanas offer shade for the grown-ups, while the kids’ play sections feature fountains and mini slides galore. We especially love the “Drop Down” slide, which delivers a stomach-dropping plunge perfect for teens and thrill-seekers. With plentiful food kiosks and sun-lounger zones, you’re set for a day of blissful fun and zero stress.
The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show: Dinner and a Mind-Bending Performance
Wind down after a wild day with something truly memorable—The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show. This quirky little dinner theater serves up family-friendly comedy, illusions, and all the pizza and salad you can manage (plus bottomless popcorn for snacking between tricks). Audiences get swept up in the action—volunteers pulled from the crowd may find themselves suddenly “disappearing,” or asked to help with gravity-defying card tricks.
The atmosphere is lively but intimate, with magicians working every inch of the room and plenty of laughs to go around. This is the kind of show where you leave still puzzling over what you just witnessed—and possibly craving a second helping of dessert. Perfect for families or anyone looking to shake up their dinner plans with something memorably oddball and genuinely entertaining.
Museum of Illusions: See the World from a New Angle
Museum of Illusions: See the World from a New Angle
Step into a world where reality bends and nothing is quite as it seems at Orlando’s Museum of Illusions. Families and fun-seekers flock here for a fresh take on museum-going, with rooms designed to trick your senses at every turn. Imagine posing for photos where you appear to defy gravity, shrink to half your size, or walk along the ceiling. It’s the perfect escape for a rainy afternoon or when you want to sprinkle your adventure with something playful and surprising.
Each room bursts with color and whacky science, encouraging visitors to let loose and be part of the exhibit. Kids love giggling their way through the Vortex Tunnel and Infinity Room, while grown-ups can’t help but marvel at the creative optical tricks. The friendly staff are always on hand to suggest the best angles for ridiculous photos—making sure you leave with snapshots that will mystify your friends back home. The vibe is contagious: everyone’s a kid again, and even the most selfie-shy guests get into the spirit.
LEGOLAND Florida: Building Big Memories
When animal spotting inspires a craving for creativity, LEGOLAND Florida delivers the goods with vibrant, blocky adventures for all ages. This park, a short drive from Lion Country Safari, brings kids’ imaginations to life with themed rides, hands-on building zones, and jaw-dropping LEGO sculptures everywhere you turn. From rollercoaster races in LEGO Technic to the whimsical charm of Duplo Valley, the fun feels limitless.
The park is tailor-made for families with younger children, though there’s plenty here for adults, too—especially if you spent your own childhood constructing miniature worlds. The Miniland USA section is a miniature marvel, with famous American landmarks crafted entirely from LEGO bricks (see if you can spot tiny safari animals among the scenes!). Daily shows, a pirate-themed water ski stunt spectacular, and creative workshops mean every visit is different. The lakeside setting is beautiful, and the relaxed pace makes for a refreshing break from Orlando’s bigger, busier parks.
Exploring West Palm Beach: Culture and Coastal Cool
If you want to keep your day balanced between wild and wonderfully laid-back, head over to West Palm Beach. Just under 30 minutes from Lion Country Safari, this coastal city is all about vibrant street life, palm-lined avenues, and a walkable downtown packed with personality. Snap street art selfies or browse the boutiques of Clematis Street, then settle into a café for a locally roasted coffee or a fresh seafood lunch—try the grouper sandwich at Rocco’s Tacos for a flavorful, Florida-inspired bite.
Once you’re fueled up and ready for more, the Norton Museum of Art opens its doors to a world-class collection spanning American, Chinese, and European masterpieces, all in a light-filled, modern space. Nearby, the palm-fringed waterfront is ideal for a leisurely stroll, especially if you arrive for the afternoon market or one of the many open-air concerts and festivals that animate the city. West Palm Beach’s inviting blend of art, music, and food feels like vacation distilled into a single afternoon.
No trip to Lion Country Safari is complete without dipping into the unique attractions and local experiences waiting nearby. Whether you crave rocket launches, zippy coasters, quirky museums, or just a relaxing beach town vibe, there’s something special around every bend. Pack your sense of adventure—as Orlando and its neighbors guarantee a wild ride both inside and outside the safari gates!
Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near LEGOLAND Orlando or Things to Do with Pre-Schoolers in Orlando
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