Splash, Explore, Repeat: Things to Do Near SEA LIFE Orlando

From spotting sharks to exploring Orlando’s top attractions, there’s plenty more to discover close by.

Published: March 9, 2026
Family at Sea Life

So, you’ve marveled at mesmerizing jellyfish, watched sharks glide overhead, and maybe even high-fived a mermaid at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. Now what? Orlando’s International Drive doesn’t let up for a second—this area’s jam-packed with shows, thrill rides, funky museums, and incredible places to grab a bite. Whether you’re wrangling a rambunctious crew of kids, looking for out-of-the-ordinary date ideas, or just want to see what else sparkles in Orlando, you’re in luck. We’re rounding up our very favorite things to do within a stone’s throw of SEA LIFE, so you can turn your aquarium trip into the best Orlando day ever! 

Our top things to do near SEA LIFE Aquarium include: 

  • The Orlando Eye 
  • Madame Tussauds Orlando 
  • Museum of Illusions 
  • Wonderworks 
  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show 
  • Fun Spot America 
  • Congo River Adventure Golf 
  • Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition 
  • ICON Park dining and shopping 
  • Pointe Orlando 

The Orlando Eye: Soar Above the City 

Ready for a fresh perspective? Just steps from SEA LIFE aquarium, The Orlando Eye towers 400 feet above International Drive, offering spectacular views over the city’s theme parks, lakes and glittering skyline. You’ll drift inside fully air-conditioned glass capsules as the wheel makes a slow, gentle rotation, perfect for taking photos or just soaking up the sights. On a clear day, you can spot everything from downtown Orlando to the distant spires of Cinderella Castle. By night, thousands of lights transform The Eye into a beacon, glowing with vibrant colors. It’s an experience that delivers a new appreciation for Orlando—peaceful, exhilarating and photo-worthy all at once. Whether you’re with family or on a date, a turn on The Wheel is a magical way to cap off your aquarium adventure. 

Madame Tussauds Orlando: Get Starstruck Next Door 

A-listers, superheroes, famous athletes—walk right over from SEA LIFE and rub elbows with them all at Madame Tussauds Orlando. This wax museum isn’t just about admiring lifelike figures (although the detail is mind-blowing). It’s fully interactive. Snap the ultimate group selfie beside Wonder Woman, shoot hoops with Shaq, or pose with Justin Bieber. Themed rooms range from Hollywood glamour to Justice League action, and the experience hits the sweet spot between fun, silly, and (secretly) impressive to your Instagram followers. The atmosphere? Upbeat and exciting, perfect for letting loose after the calm, aquatic world upstairs. You’ll definitely leave with a few stories—and plenty of hilarious photos. 

Museum of Illusions: Mind Tricks and Selfie Magic 

Feeling curious? Just a fin-flip away from SEA LIFE, the Museum of Illusions is a feast for your brain and your camera roll. Here, nothing is quite as it seems. You’ll step into upside-down rooms, hover over infinity tunnels, and shrink or grow at will in mind-boggling perspective zones. The staff are always ready to help you stage that perfect shot, so you’ll head home with a phone full of conversation starters. This spot is a hit for all ages—with everyone from giggling kids to “it’s just for the ‘gram” grownups. Bonus: the air-conditioned space is a lifesaver on humid Orlando afternoons! 

Wonderworks: Play, Discover, Laugh 

Just down the street, you’ll spot a building that's, quite literally, upside down. That’s Wonderworks—a massive, interactive “edu-tainment” playground. Here, science and fun go hand-in-hand: you can lie on a bed of nails, try your hand at a hurricane-strength wind tunnel, or challenge friends to a laser tag showdown. There are 100+ hands-on activities, each one designed to spark curiosity and adventure. Your kids’ energy will finally meet its match, and adults will secretly have just as much fun. The atmosphere is friendly, bright, and the exhibits never fail to deliver those “wow, how does this work?!” moments. 

The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: Laughs and Pizza, Guaranteed

Magic Trick

Looking for entertainment with your dinner plans? The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show, right beside Wonderworks, is a family crowd-pleaser. Think comedy, wild magic tricks, and lots of cheeky jokes—all while you feast on unlimited pizza, salad, popcorn, and drinks. The room is cozy and intimate, so every seat feels close to the action. Performers draw kids and adults into their tricks, making the night part-show, part-party. Every visit ends with full bellies and big grins. 

Fun Spot America: Classic Carnival Vibes 

Want throwback thrills? Hop over to Fun Spot America, where vintage amusements meet high-octane attractions. The iconic wooden roller coaster offers big air and old-school squeals, while the go-karts, bumper cars, and arcade games let everyone in your group channel their inner kid. Fairground snacks like funnel cake and fresh lemonade set the mood, and you’ll hear as much laughter off the rides as on. The speedy SkyCoaster is a must for the daredevils—soaring 250 feet above the park. At Fun Spot, there’s room to roam, try a little bit of everything, and make those “remember when we…?” memories with friends and family. 

Congo River Adventure Golf: Putt-Putt With a Twist 

Adventure golf fans, rejoice! Congo River Adventure Golf, a quick drive from SEA LIFE, transports you to a lush, tropical escape—right in the heart of Orlando. Giant waterfalls, hidden caves, mysterious jungles, and even a few live gators (safely behind glass, don’t worry!) create the ultimate Florida mini-golf scene. Each hole offers new surprises and challenges, with plenty of photo ops throughout. And if you need a break from putting, you can hunt for gemstones, try your hand at arcade games, or feed the baby alligators. This course is ideal for groups, date nights, or anyone craving a little friendly competition in the shade. 

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition: Step into History

Child at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

Just a few minutes from SEA LIFE you’ll find an experience that’s as moving as it is memorable. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition recreates the famous ship’s most elegant spaces, from the Grand Staircase to the staterooms and cafe. With interactive guides in period dress, genuine artifacts recovered from the ocean floor, and recreated dinner menus, the ambience is both immersive and poignant. Visitors can even touch an iceberg and feel the chill that passengers experienced on that fateful night. For history buffs, romantics, or anyone who’s ever quoted “I’m the king of the world!,” this experience is unforgettable and thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity and emotion. 

ICON Park Dining & Shopping: Eat, Sip, Stroll 

All this exploring calls for a tasty pit stop! ICON Park’s open-air promenade brings together a range of restaurants, bars, and shops in one convenient, walkable space. Craving something quick? Try Sloppy Joe’s for generously stacked burgers and Key West vibes, complete with beachy live music. Looking for a casual-yet-classy meal? Taverna Opa offers Greek specialties like sizzling lamb chops and hand-stretched pita in a lively, family-friendly setting. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sugar Factory, where legendary milkshakes arrive piled high with sparklers, donuts, and candy. And if you’re in the mood for a cocktail, check out The Wheelhouse Bar, boasting a bird’s-eye view of passing parkgoers and The Wheel itself—all lit up after dark. 

Pointe Orlando: Shop, Dine, Play 

Just a few minutes south on International Drive sits Pointe Orlando, another stylish spot for an afternoon or evening out. The shopping offers a refreshing break from the usual souvenir fare, with boutiques blending indie finds and Florida flair. When hunger strikes, there’s plenty of variety—try The Capital Grille for juicy steaks in a buzzy, upscale setting, or grab citrus-marinated street tacos from Uncle Julio’s for a relaxed vibe. Pointe Orlando’s nightlife ranges from live jazz gigs at Blue Martini to comedy shows at The Improv, making it easy to extend the fun after a day packed with attractions. 

 

There you have it—a full day (or two) of adventure, fun, food, and discovery all a seashell’s toss from SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Why WonderWorks Is a Must-See on Orlando’s Iconic I-Drive or Everything you need to know about Go City’s Orlando Passes 

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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
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Your Guide to Orlando Airport

Everybody loves a good vacation to Orlando. From museums and other cultural institutions to beaches and the Everglades National Park, there’s no end of things to do. In fact, whether you’re a theme park junkie or the type who loves to explore the great outdoors, Central Florida has you covered. Of course, getting to Orlando is the first step in that amazing Florida vacation you’ve been planning. As a busy airport, Orlando (MCO) can be a bit challenging to navigate—especially for first-time visitors to the area and those traveling with little ones. Check out our handy guide to Orlando International Airport, including tips for how to navigate the airport with kids and basic info on how to get around... Orlando Airport Overview Orlando Airport serves 39 different airlines with both domestic and international destinations. Depending upon your airline, you will fly in and out of one of two terminals, A or B. If you need to know which terminal you’ll be in, you can consult the official airport website. Your ticket should also have this information clearly indicated. To help you navigate the airport and find your gate, we recommend consulting the terminal map. You will also need to use a monorail to get to your gate once you’re past security, but this can be a fun experience for the whole family—especially train-loving little kids! Orlando Airport Main Hub & Shopping There’s a main hub between the two terminals that can be a fruitful resource for gifts, toys, and a way to entertain antsy kids. There’s even an arcade (next to the kid magnet Natalie’s Candy Jar) that features both new and classic games. It can be a fun way for the kids to burn off steam, or for you all to play together. There are plenty of places to shop if you have time to kill or souvenirs left to collect, including a SeaWorld store, two Kennedy Space Center stores, two Universal stores with loads of Harry Potter merchandise, and two different Disney stores that have everything you could want. Disney’s Earport is located in the East Hall, and has a pin station where you can trade collectible Disney pins—a popular practice with Disney fanatics. The second store, Magic of Disney, is on the South Walk and boasts large themed screens that serve as great photo backdrops. This is the main place for shopping, and comes before the security gates, so keep that in mind when arriving or departing. If you’re leaving on a departing flight, you’ll need to fit all of your purchases into your luggage before going through security and boarding your flight. However, feel free to load up on separate bags if you’re heading out the front doors! Orlando Airport Security Like all airports, MCO employs standard security procedures as implemented by the TSA. That means you’ll need to make sure you have the right size toiletries, bring no liquids through with you except for medicine or breast milk, and remove all large electronics from your bags. One less common thing the Orlando Airport also requires is that you remove all food items from your non-checked bags. You can bring them through, just make sure they are accessible to take out when going through the line. If you are traveling with little ones, remember that the TSA does not require kids 12 and under to take off their shoes, light jackets, or hats. Babies must be taken out of their strollers and carried through the metal detector, although they can also be carried in a sling. For more information on getting through TSA screening procedures with your kids, check out their official guide to traveling with children. As one of the busiest airports in the country, Orlando Airport also often has tremendously long security lines. Please arrive well in advance of your flight time to make sure that you have time to get through. It can also help to be aware of carry-on restrictions and other policies before you travel to make sure that your time through to the other side isn’t an age and a half. Orlando Airport Dining Options If you arrive early enough at the airport before your departure and need to work in a meal or snack, rest assured—dining options of all stripes abound at MCO. Looking for something fast and inexpensive in the main terminal? Moe’s Southwest Grill and McDonald’s are easy choices at the Main Terminal Food Court. There are three restaurants at the attached Hyatt Regency, as well as a delicious Macaroni Grill, all of which provide more options than fast food. Sports fans may also want to check out the new City Pub, which features local beer and tasty food. It’s also an official supporting bar for the Orlando City Soccer Club, so it’s perfect for sports fans. Fortunately, City Pub is also a relaxed atmosphere that is suitable for kids. The dining options are more diverse once you get past security, including a Chipotle, Cibo Express, Wendy’s, Nathan’s, and an Outback Steakhouse, among several others. There are also some fun adult-friendly options like the upscale Cask & Larder, which brings a farm-to-table sensibility to MCO. If you’d like to review all of your dining options before your visit to see which would be the best for your family—especially those of you with any food allergies or specific diets—the Orlando Airport has conveniently provided a dining directory. Orlando Car Rentals, Shuttles, and Ride Share When arriving in Orlando and needing to find your way from the airport to your hotel or resort, you have multiple options. The most common option is to rent a car, especially if you are doing more than just Disney. Keep in mind that a high-traffic airport like Orlando will often run out of cars later in the day, so be sure to make your rental reservation in advance. Car rental companies are located on both A and B sides of the terminal on Level 1. For those of you who are headed to Disney, the Disney Magical Express is a shuttle that escorts arriving guests to their Disney resort. You’ll need to have your MagicBands ready to be scanned, but the trip is other a pretty painless way to get to your resort or hotel in the Disney-verse. If you’re looking for a taxi or ride share like Uber or Lyft, go to the Ground Transportation area on Level 1. Please note that there is a small fee charged for airport pick-ups that will be added onto your total bill. A good idea can be to look for coupons or deals before arriving to help you save, as the Orlando Airport isn’t very close to downtown and your fare could be quite high.   Orlando Airport Insider Tips The Orlando Airport has an official app—available for Android or Apple—that can be a smart choice for frequent flyers or anyone who likes the extra guidance. Don’t have a smartphone, or prefer not to download the app? There are plenty of interactive kiosks around the airport with the same helpful information. Arrive two to three hours before your flight departs to allow time to go through security and take advantage of the shopping and dining. If your flight arrives late and you have tired and grumpy kids, it may be easier and most cost-effective to stay at a hotel near or in the airport. The Hyatt Regency is an easy choice, as it’s located right in the center of the airport and offers good deals. Important: Once past security, you’ll need to choose one of the monorails to get you to your gate. If you pick the wrong one, you’ll have to take it back and go through security again, so be sure you know which one will head to your gate! Save on Orlando Attraction Tickets Once you’ve successfully made it through the Orlando Airport, it’s time to get down to exploring. If you’re interested in checking what Orlando has to offer beyond the major theme parks, a Go Orlando pass is a smart choice. You can save up to 50% on combined admission to top attractions like LEGOLAND® Florida, Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and many I-Drive activities. It’s a convenient digital pass that you get instant access to upon purchase, so whether you plan ahead or opt-in last minute, you can enjoy big savings. Happy travels! So grab an Orlando pass and make the most of your trip!
Katie Sagal

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