WonderWorks and Beyond: Explore Orlando’s Entertainment Zone

Just left WonderWorks? Keep the magic going next door—this time, the right way up!

Published: March 5, 2026
Wonderworks building

So you’ve battled hurricane-force winds, made your hair stand on end, and even braved a bed of nails at WonderWorks. Now what? Lucky for you, WonderWorks sits at the heart of Orlando’s most energetic area—International Drive—where the fun just keeps coming. Whether you want to keep the adrenaline pumping, chill out with jaw-dropping views, or dive into something completely new, you’re surrounded by attractions, eats, and amusements that promise a day packed with adventure. Ready to see what’s just around the corner? Here are our absolute favorite things to do near WonderWorks. 

Our favorite things to do near WonderWorks include: 

  • The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show 
  • The Orlando Eye 
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium 
  • Museum of Illusions 
  • Madame Tussauds Orlando 
  • Fun Spot America 
  • ICON Park (free to enter) 
  • ICEBAR Orlando 

The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show 

Step straight from WonderWorks into this wacky, family-friendly dinner show (it’s right inside the same building, so there’s zero travel required). The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show is all about laughter, jaw-dropping illusions, and endless audience participation. The magician-comedians work the room, making every show a little different—one minute you’re howling at improv jokes, the next you’re stunned by sleight of hand or pulled up to help with a card trick. The food is as fun as the entertainment: unlimited freshly baked pizza, salad, popcorn, plus dessert, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Expect a cozy, buzzing atmosphere where everyone feels part of the act—it's a great bet for all ages, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re coming with kids or just feeling young at heart. 

The Orlando Eye 

Ready to see Orlando from a whole new angle? The Orlando Eye at ICON Park rises 400 feet above International Drive, offering jaw-dropping views you’ll want to capture on camera. Step into a sleek, climate-controlled capsule with your crew, press your nose against the glass, and watch as the city unfurls below. On a clear day, you can spot the skyline, lakes, and theme parks for miles; at sunset, the views are even better, with the city lights twinkling on. The slow spin gives you plenty of time to soak it all in, snap the perfect selfie, and enjoy a peaceful break from the bustle below. 

SEA LIFE Aquarium

Woman standing in front of tank of fish

Dive right in—SEA LIFE Aquarium is just a few steps away from WonderWorks, and it’s a total crowd favorite. Stroll through an immersive 360° tunnel where graceful rays, sharks, and sea turtles swim over your head, or check out interactive exhibits packed with starfish, seahorses, and colorful coral reefs. There are daily feeding sessions, educational talks, and plenty of spots where curious little ones can get hands-on. It’s a soothing aquatic escape with just the right amount of excitement to keep everyone’s attention, making it a perfect compliment to the hands-on chaos of WonderWorks. 

Museum of Illusions 

If WonderWorks tickled your brain, don’t miss Museum of Illusions, a quirky wonderland designed for fun photos and mind-bending surprises. Twist your perspective in rooms that shrink or stretch you, lose gravity in the vortex tunnel, and pose for endless optical illusions that’ll boost your Instagram to new heights. The staff love sharing tips for the wildest shots, and each exhibit is interactive, playful, and just a little bit surreal. It’s a hit for all ages, and perfect for groups who love a friendly challenge. Whether you’re competing for bragging rights or just goofing around, the laughs come fast and the fun never stops. 

Madame Tussauds Orlando 

Step into the spotlight at Madame Tussauds Orlando, where A-list celebrities, iconic historical figures, and legendary superheroes are ready for (wax) high-fives and epic selfies. Stroll from the Oval Office to Hollywood’s red carpet, then swing by the Justice League’s secret hideout—these figures are so lifelike, you’ll be doing double-takes at every turn! Make it as interactive as you like: strike a pose, dress up with props, or get silly with your favorite stars. This is the spot for photos your friends back home won’t believe—and it’s just a quick stroll from WonderWorks. 

Fun Spot America 

For a taste of old-school amusement park fun, take a quick ride north to Fun Spot America. Thrill-seekers can tackle go-kart tracks with sharp turns, hop on a classic wooden roller coaster, or challenge friends at arcade games and midway booths. The park’s laid-back vibe makes it perfect for families looking for an adrenaline kick without the crowds of the mega-theme parks. With a convenient pay-as-you-go setup, you can pop in for an hour or make a full day of it, snacking on funnel cakes, corndogs, and other carnival favorites along the way. As night falls, the park lights up, turning every ride and spin into a mini celebration—guaranteed to leave smiles all around. 

ICON Park

Orlando Eye

Rather keep your feet on the ground? No problem—ICON Park is a buzzing hub of fun that’s perfect for exploring at your own pace. Entry is free, and the lively outdoor plaza is packed with bars, patio dining, and street performers bringing energy around every corner. Kick back on the green spaces, snap photos with vibrant art installations, or just soak in the contagious atmosphere day or night. Grab a craft beer at Yard House, indulge in sliders at Sloppy Joe’s, or satisfy your sweet tooth with whimsical treats from Sugar Factory. After dark, The Wheel and surrounding attractions put on a dazzling light show, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Orlando evening. 

ICEBAR Orlando 

Need a literal cool down? ICEBAR Orlando is the world’s largest permanent ice bar, just a short drive up I-Drive from WonderWorks. Step inside a frosty wonderland, don a thermal cape, and explore a lounge carved entirely from ice (even your glass!). Sip signature cocktails as sculpted ice figures glow under vibrant lights, with thumping music setting a lively, club-like vibe. When the chill gets intense, the nearby Fire Lounge offers a cozy spot to thaw out and recharge. Perfect for adults looking for a unique date night or friends hunting for those “only-in-Orlando” photo moments, ICEBAR Orlando is a one-of-a-kind experience—even kids can join in until late evening! 

Orlando’s playful spirit shines extra bright around WonderWorks, making this corner of the city a must-visit for curious explorers of all ages. Whether you’re continuing the adventure with nearby attractions, cooling off in immersive underwater worlds, or simply taking a moment to kick back and people-watch, there’s no shortage of fresh excitement just steps from the upside-down house. So, grab a bite, snap a few photos, and let the good times keep rolling—Orlando’s energy is contagious, and the next adventure is always just around the corner. 

Enjoyed this? Check out our Why WonderWorks is a Must-See on Orlando’s Iconic I-Drive or Lights, Camera, Action: Things to Do Near Madame Tussauds Orlando

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International Drive Attractions - Fun Things to Do on I-Drive & at ICON 360 Orlando

On International Drive you'll find attractions that appeal to the whole family - from theme parks to the largest observation wheel on the East Coast.
Lindsay Eagan
cute dog dressed up as a ghost for halloween
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How to Have the Best Halloween in Orlando: Top Experiences

Orlando transforms every October—suddenly, cobwebs and jack-o’-lanterns sprinkle the theme parks, haunted houses pop up in every neighborhood, and the air sparkles with an energy that’s one part mischief, one part magic. Whether you want jump-scares that raise your heart-rate or family-friendly pumpkin patches, this town rolls out the orange carpet for Halloween in style. Ready to join skeleton-parading crowds, nosh on monster-themed treats, and chase chills both mild and wild? We’ve pieced together the ultimate guide to help you craft your perfect Halloween adventure. Start your spooky season here, and you’ll end up with way more than just a full treat bag.  Our favorite ways to celebrate Halloween in Orlando include:  Kennedy Space Center’s cosmic Halloween  Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts & Goblins festival  Fun Spot America’s family-friendly Fright Nights  Madame Tussauds Orlando: selfie with spooky celebs  Museum of Illusions: mind-bending Halloween fun  SEA LIFE Orlando’s Underwater Pumpkin Patch  The Orlando Eye’s haunted views  Haunted houses in Winter Park  Lake Eola Park’s Halloween festivities  International Drive’s trick-or-treating & pop-up fun  Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts & Goblins  Swap witches for gators—after all, you’re in Florida! Gatorland’s annual Gators, Ghosts & Goblins festival has become a beloved Halloween staple, proving scares don’t have to be all gloom and doom. Here, costumed characters roam the boardwalks among ancient cypress trees while real-life alligators lurk in the swamps below—cue your goosebumps!  Families love the maze of themed zones. “Swamp Ghost’s Monster Museum” mixes glowing gator skulls with stories from Florida folklore, while kids’ craft tables keep little hands busy with pumpkin painting and mask-making. Catch the stage shows for reptilian stunts and “monster” feedings—yes, you actually see gators go wild for their Halloween treats.  There’s a genius mix of silly and spooky everywhere you look. Costumed staffers toss headless horseman puns with the same enthusiasm they toss raw chicken to the gators. Trick-or-treat stations guarantee an orange bucket’s worth of candy without ever risking a real haunt, and a family-friendly Frankenstein’s Foam Party is a new crowd favorite. For brave souls, the park even puts on a haunted trail after dark, with surprises lurking behind every vine.  It’s one of those experiences where everyone—from toddlers to teens and fun-loving grandparents—finds their vibe. And there are photo ops everywhere, so your social feed will be stuffed with costumed gator selfies and snapshots of costumed kids making lifelong Halloween memories.  Fun Spot America: Fright Nights for All Ages  When it comes to affordable thrills and laughs, Fun Spot America nails the Halloween spirit. Their Fright Nights transform the family-friendly amusement park into a playground of pumpkins, silly monsters, and not-too-scary chills. There are no blackout zones or intense haunted house frights—just classic rides decked out in Halloween finery and themed music pulsing from every corner.  What makes Fun Spot’s Halloween track so fun? Classic rides like the Ferris wheel and go-karts glow under Halloween lights. Teens flock to the slightly spooky “Fun House Fright” experience where costumed performers create harmless jump-scares, while little ones can try mini-maze games with plenty of staff on hand to keep things silly, not scary.  Our favorite part might be the event’s laidback candy hunt. Kids (and, let’s be honest, some adults) can trick-or-treat at multiple themed stations. The treats are generous and often come with a side of goofy jokes from the staff—look for skeletons with a sweet tooth and vampires handing out lollipops.  Live entertainment keeps things buzzing all night. Think magic shows, dance offs, and surprise appearances from far-too-happy zombies ready for selfies. It’s the perfect place to let your guard down, laugh hard, and add classic fairground treats—funnel cakes, cotton candy, hot dogs, and caramel apples—to your Halloween feast. Go in costume and you’ll fit right in.  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Selfies with Spooky Celebs  Madame Tussauds Orlando is always a heavy hitter for pop culture lovers, but when Halloween rolls around, the museum gets a ghoulish makeover. Suddenly, you’re brushing elbows with horror movie legends—wax versions, of course—including Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster, and newer stars from the latest scary blockbusters.  We’d argue there’s no better place in Orlando to build your Halloween photo album. You can pose mid-scream with a wax Dracula or join the superhero squad ready to banish a waxy vampire menace. The immersion ramps up with staff scattered throughout in costume, offering to snap your perfect supernatural selfie.  If you visit after dark, look for “After Hours” events—these add live actors, themed cocktails at the in-house bar, and clever mini-games among the wax figures. There’s a scavenger hunt for hidden bats, secret clue cards, and an ongoing competition for the most elaborate visitor costume. VIP tickets sometimes come with treat bags (hello, grown-up candies) and the chance to chat with a resident “medium” who’ll predict your Halloween future.  Madame Tussauds delivers all the chills, but none of the stress—no one’s leaping at you from a darkened corner. You control the pace, the level of silliness, and your own personal scare factor. It’s perfect for friends, couples, and families seeking Instagram gold without risking a sudden fright.  Museum of Illusions: Mind-Bending Halloween Fun  If you’re after something spooky, surprising, and completely unique, the Museum of Illusions belongs at the top of your list. This mind-bending playground combines art, science, and optical trickery—making it a natural fit for Halloween hijinks.  Around October, the museum ramps up its trickster spirit. Suddenly, your shadow sports a witch hat, and rooms swirl with pumpkin illusions, haunted mirrors, and photo vignettes designed for spooktacular selfies. Pose upside-down in a haunted house room, or vanish into a hallway of holographic ghosts and see which of your friends looks the most chilling in the “infinity abyss” chamber.  The real treat is in the interaction. You’ll laugh, gasp and try to puzzle out just what is going on in each exhibit—perfect fodder for adults who crave a clever twist on Halloween fun. Look for pop-up events, like Halloween magic demonstrations, candy tastings hidden throughout, and a “best costume in an illusion” contest.  Young kids absolutely love the magic of it all, but there’s enough science and surprise to keep grown-ups entertained for hours. No one leaves empty-handed—expect goofy group photos and a brain full of “how did they do that?” questions to take back to your hotel.  The Orlando Eye: Haunted Views from Above  For a Halloween experience that sits (literally) above the rest, take to the skies on the Orlando Eye. This towering observation wheel gets spooky makeovers throughout October—a haunted light show floods the gondolas in purples, oranges and ghostly greens while themed music pulses through the cabins.  As you rise high above the city, look for the tiny Halloween parades marching through International Drive below, along with the glowing jack-o’-lanterns and trick-or-treaters wandering the walkways. The views stretch for miles, blending the twinkling lights with distant haunted houses and fireworks displays. For Halloween week, keep an eye out for VIP gondolas featuring pumpkin treats, candy bags and even mystery fortune-tellers on board.  We recommend timing your ride for the golden hour or after dark for those dreamy Halloween night cityscapes. It’s romantic, eerie, and surprisingly peaceful—a perfect pause between haunted happenings and trick-or-treat rounds. Kids adore the holiday lighting and adults can kick back in high-flying style—snacking on candy or just soaking in the sights. For group fun, the Eye sometimes hosts in-cabin costume contests, so come dressed to impress.  Not ready for the chills to end? Madame Tussauds and SEA LIFE are located just steps away, so you can bundle up your Halloween adventure in one easy trip on International Drive.  Haunted Houses in Winter Park  While Orlando’s theme parks draw most of the headlines, we always make time for the neighborhood haunted houses—especially those popping up in charming, walkable Winter Park. These haunts are put on by local horror obsessives, meaning you’ll find clever storylines, super-creative sets, and live actors who are here for the joy of it all.  Some events lean family-friendly: gently spooky with lights-on “not-so-scary” hours, selfie stations and candy handouts. Others get more intense after dark, with actors and effects that’ll leap out when you least expect it. (Don’t worry—there’s always a clear warning if things are truly terrifying.)  The best part? Winter Park’s haunted houses feel neighborly. You’ll run into locals, hear live music wafting from neighborhood porches, and follow the pumpkin-lit path to costume contests and pop-up food trucks. We love grabbing fresh apple cider and cinnamon donuts from a street stall before wandering through sets that range from haunted libraries to vintage cinemas.  These haunts vary year-to-year, but you can always count on a social, walkable vibe—perfect for groups who want a classic American haunted house without the theme park crowds.  Lake Eola Park’s Halloween Festivities  Halloween in downtown Orlando feels like a street party, and Lake Eola Park serves as the hub. From massive pumpkin patches and costumed pet parades to kid-friendly hayrides and food vendor pop-ups, the park buzzes all month with fall spirit and festive chaos.  If you’re traveling with kids, Lake Eola’s annual trick-or-treat trail is a can’t-miss. Volunteers from local businesses set up colorful booths where little ones fill their buckets with a candy haul—think caramel corn, spooky gummies, lollipops and chocolate treats. Face-painting artists create wild characters while magicians roam with pocket-sized tricks up their sleeves.  Bring a picnic blanket and linger for outdoor movie nights—remember to come early if you want a great spot for the Halloween flick (and a chance at the popcorn booth). Live music and dance crews round out the festivities, while food stands tempt with seasonal snacks like pumpkin donuts, cider slushies, and barbecue.  Lake Eola’s Halloween vibe is all about community—smiling families, costumed teens, and friendly locals high-fiving strangers in the spirit of the season. Bonus: the park itself is gorgeous in fall, with swan boats gliding past glowing jack-o’-lanterns on the lake.  International Drive: Trick-or-Treating & Pop-Up Fun  No Halloween trip to Orlando is complete without wandering International Drive. Each shopfront and restaurant deck themselves out in webs, pumpkins, and monster faces, welcoming trick-or-treaters of every age. Many stores offer free candy—often with costumed greeters handing out treats or, in some cases, inviting you inside for photo ops and discount coupons.  International Drive’s big resorts and attractions (including The Orlando Eye, SEA LIFE and Madame Tussauds) hold their own Halloween pop-up events—think themed dining showcases where waiters dress as mad scientists, or Halloween karaoke sessions in busy bars. Live music and street performers add to the spectacle, with everything from Michael Jackson impersonators moonwalking down the block to acrobats in full pumpkin regalia.  If you crave a kid-free evening, check out International Drive’s after-hours scene. Bars and nightclubs host themed parties ranging from silly to swanky—costume contests with big prizes, DJ sets pounding out classic Halloween anthems, and specialty cocktails like “Witch’s Brew Mojito” or “Bloody Sunrise.”  We love International Drive for its anything-goes, over-the-top attitude: everyone’s a kid again, and every square inch bursts with Halloween cheer.    Whether you’re chasing jump scares or craving candy corn, Orlando has mastered the art of Halloween. From gators dressed as goblins to space stations swirling with pumpkin lights, every attraction adds its own zany twist to the holiday. Travelers can mix legendary theme parks with neighborhood haunts, waterfront strolls, science museums, and pop-up parties—all dressed up in fall’s finest. Orlando’s mix of family fun, creative events, and genuine community spirit makes it hard to top when it comes to celebrating Halloween. Throw in a few sweets (and maybe a gator selfie or two), and you’ve got the recipe for a magical trip.    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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Orlando Memorial Day Weekend 2020 - Fun Things to Do in May

Spending Memorial Day Weekend in the central Florida area? There are lots of fun activities to enjoy this holiday weekend. Whether you're all about theme park thrills or prefer to take in scenic vistas, there's something for everyone to love in Orlando. If you’re looking for Orlando Memorial Day Weekend 2020 ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Orlando in May, including... Visit the exciting I-Drive 360 Complex Explore Lake Eola Park Take a trip to the Kennedy Space Center Check out the animals living in the Everglades Visit Lion Country Safari and more... Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Orlando pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Orlando attractions & activities and save up to 50% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Orlando attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special May and Memorial Day weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Orlando pass. Head to a Theme Park LEGOLAND Florida Another top theme park option is LEGOLAND® Florida. This 150-acre park is filled with attractions that are just perfect for kids 12 and under. Your kids can go on over 50 rides, see a show, and explore the Miniland cities in Miniland USA. Don't forget to visit LEGO Heartlake City, where you can meet new friends and play around with the whole gang. Then, there's the "LEGO Movie 4D: A New Adventure," which allows fans to continue their love for the LEGO Movie. Getting In: LEGOLAND Florida tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass. The I-Drive 360 Entertainment Complex Visit Kennedy Space Center Lion Country Safari Explore Central Florida Everglades Tour Winter Park One of the most beautiful suburbs of Orlando is Winter Park, a city filled with indie shops, tasty restaurants, delightful gardens, and lovely architecture. In addition to popping in a few local businesses, why not take a boat tour of Winter Park's peaceful canals and lakes? It's a great way to spend a relaxing hour. Getting In: Winter Park Boat Tour tickets are included with the Go Orlando pass. Explore Lake Eola Park Stroll the Beaches Whether you want to head all the way to New Smyrna or Cocoa Beach, or feel like exploring the tiny but delightful Winter Park Beach, there are fabulous beach options to fulfill your Memorial Day summer dreams. Get to the beach early to get a great spot, grab a towel and you're pretty much set to go! Getting In: Beach admission is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Orlando pass. For more information, please visit the website of your chosen beach. Remember to Save on Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Orlando in May to help you plan your Memorial Day weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Orlando pass, where you can save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!
Katie Sagal

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