Why WonderWorks Is a Must-See on Orlando’s Iconic I-Drive

Looking for a fun-for-all-ages attraction? Step into Orlando's iconic upside-down house, where education and entertainment collide right on the doorstep of International Drive.

UPDATED JULY 2025
WonderWorks

You’ve hauled your family and luggage all the way to Orlando – the hard part is over. Now it’s time to jump right in to all this sunny city has to offer! Hitting the top spots on International Drive is probably already on your list, thanks to the likes of ICON Park and Disney World, but here’s why WonderWorks is another spot that can’t be missed. 

A family's dream

Image of a boy creating a giant bubble

If you’ve never heard of it, WonderWorks Orlando is a topsy-turvy, indoor ‘edu-tainment' amusement park, boasting 28,000 square feet of pure family fun. Legend has it that it was once a top-secret lab located in the Bermuda Triangle, but after an experiment went sideways (literally) it got blown all the way to Orlando and landed upside-down. Whether you believe the tale or not, this attraction will still amaze all ages.

With over 100 hands-on exhibits, minds big and small will never run out of opportunities to challenge themselves. For a more thrilling experience, brave the Bed of Nails, be blown away by category one hurricane force winds, or blast your opponents to victory with a game of laser-tag. For younger kids (and chill grown-ups), unlock your creativity in the Imagination Lab, create a huge bubble you can fit inside, or become the next Beethoven on a giant piano. 

Step through the inversion tunnel...

Image of girl smiling while holding pulley ropes

WonderWorks is a unique blend of amusement park and museum, so you can learn something new while still having so much fun! Throw yourself into their six Wonder Zones and discover a whole bunch of activities to spark your imagination. Here’s the lowdown:  

  • Extreme Weather Zone 
    Natural disaster simulators, a Tesla Coil, and the Titanic Ice Bucket Challange. Are you ready to challenge your senses? 

  • Physical Challenge Zone 
    Put your body to the test on a Bed of Nails, blow the biggest bubble you can, and witness how pulleys can make you super strong (thank you physics). 

  • Space Discovery Zone 
    Always wanted to be an astronaut? Make it a reality in this zone. Step into a life-size replica of an EVA suit (great photo opp), spin in the two-person gyroscope and feel the weightlessness of space and climb into the one-man vehicle Mercury capsule replica and set off to orbit. 

  • Wonder Art Gallery 
    Trick your mind with illusion art pieces, take a look at some of Dr. Suess’ weird taxidermy sculptures and admire Jason Kronenwald’s Gum Blondes made entirely out of–you guessed it–chewing gum! 

  • Light and Sound Zone 
    Get to know your shadow in dance and photography, then tinkle those ivories like Billy Joel on the giant piano. 

  • Imagination Lab 
    Create your own landscape with the help of augmented reality in the interactive sandbox, make colorful designs on a gigantic version of Lite-Brite, or spin some gears and see how they interlock and work together. 

Image of a girl smiling at the camera in a rope course

When you’re done with the exhibits, more playtime awaits! Traverse the glow-in-the-dark indoor rope course, have a shooting game of black-lit laser-tag, and experience the exciting motions in the 4D XD Motion Theater. 

A comedy show tops your adventures off – sit back, relax, and laugh away the evening at The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show - be sure to load up on unlimited hand-tossed cheese and pepperoni pizza, salad, beer, wine, soda and dessert!  

FYI: The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show counts as a separate attraction but is also included on the pass – win!

Amusement park with a message

Image of a robot waving

All excitement aside, WonderWorks is an attraction with a mission. They’re dedicated to igniting a passion for science and are actively working towards creating multiple STEM programs. An amusement park that’s passionate about STEM education? It may sound a little out there, but it’s another reason why WonderWorks stands out from the rest.

What’s new for Summer 2025?

Image of a couple in a theater with 3D glasses

Visiting sunny Florida in Summer 2025? Then you might have heard of the brand-new Epic Universe theme park opening on I-Drive. If you’re lucky enough to get tickets – we’d be so jealous – it would make perfect sense to head to WonderWorks while you’re there!

Get involved in their Summer of Magic! From June 30th to July 6th, they'll be running three thrilling shows a day at 4PM, 6PM and 8PM. These Three-Show-Days will run on select Saturdays throughout July as well, so be sure to grab a pass and prepare for an experience you won't soon forget.

I-Drive must-see

Image of a road sign

WonderWorks is a fantastic addition to any Orlando itinerary. It’s right next door to other great attractions on our pass, like Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, and The Orlando Eye. Plus, with Go City, you’ll get 20% off in the WonderWorks gift shop AND the café so you can get a little treat (partly) on us!

Wanna stretch those legs even more? Check out more attractions on I-Drive, or discover our theme park alternatives picks.

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!

Beth Levicki
Content Executive

Beth is a Content Executive at Go City and a casual writer of many things. She particularly loves songwriting and has written over 50 original songs since childhood. She loves travelling, especially to the US to see her friends, and enjoys more scenic destinations like hiking in upstate New York or Washington. When she’s not writing, she enjoys playing video games, watching Formula 1, and trying to stop her dog Odin from stealing her socks.

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Best Markets in Orlando
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Best Markets in Orlando

If you're looking for the best markets in Orlando, check out our picks and get ready to haggle! From fresh produce to street food, we've got it all. Including: Orlando Farmers' Market Winter Park Farmers' Market East End Market Maitland Farmer's Market Winter Garden Farmers Market and more! Best Markets in Orlando: Orlando Farmer's Market Found in the middle of downtown Orlando, the Orlando Farmer's Market set up shop every week. Featuring an array of local offerings, including farm-fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, pressed juices, gourmet kettle corn, intricately crafted handmade jewelry, vibrant live plants, and a rich assortment of additional treasures, it's clearly one of the best markets in Orlando. And that's without gushing over the beer and wine garden that opens its kegs at noon. With so much good stuff on offer, you better make sure you've got some pennies in the bank! Is it worth visiting downtown Orlando? Downtown Orlando is a lively center of entertainment in Central Florida. Enjoy its dynamic atmosphere and find great dining spots, trendy shopping options and plenty of nightlife. The area also has a park and a lake. This is the historic district of the city, where you can admire beautiful churches and buildings. Can you walk in downtown Orlando? The area is pretty small, so you can easily walk around the quaint city streets for the day, while Disney World and Universal are all just a short drive away. What is the best street in Orlando? Referred to as I-Drive, International Drive is the focal point for many of Orlando's premier theme parks and attractions. This vibrant stretch of road draws vacationers from near and far, offering an array of unforgettable experiences. Best Markets in Orlando: Winter Park Farmers' Market The Winter Park Farmers' Market offers a bountiful assortment of freshly harvested produce, verdant plants, delectable baked creations, and an array of other delights, all from local businesses. This market attracts both locals and tourists alike to sample its delights. Operating throughout the year, it consistently boasts an abundant stock of locally sourced produce. It's a colorful feast for the eyes and will provide a tasty feast for the belly! The stall owners are more than welcome to chat with you about their offerings, so don't shy away from a conversation or two. And hey, if you want to see more of the surrounding area, why not book a scenic boat tour and see the park from a different perspective? Best Markets in Orlando: East End Market Situated in the heart of the Garden District, the East End Market is a paradise for food aficionados. Experience the sublime flavor of Orlando's finest cookies at Gideon's Bakehouse, treat yourself to the exquisitely handcrafted artisanal cheeses from Le Femme du Fromage, or delight in the sips of locally sourced organic juices at the Skyebird Juice Bar. A trip to East End Market also promises an enriching afternoon – relish a craft beer from Florida & Co. or explore a new avenue by partaking in one of the many classes available at the market. In any case, it's an exceptional destination that warrants a visit. Best Markets in Orlando: Maitland Farmer's Market For those with leisurely Sunday mornings to spare, the Maitland Farmer's Market could be just what you're looking for. And, if you're not averse to a warm, chatty atmosphere, make that a double. Conversations constantly ring out throughout the market, giving it a vibe like no other. The venue itself boasts an appealing setting, and with decent parking and traffic-free thoroughfare, you can take a car to load up if you like. Food and drink is the market's selling point, with a range of street food and refreshing beverages that'll hit the spot! Best Markets in Orlando: Winter Garden Farmers Market Nestled to the west of Orlando, the enchanting and historically rich city of Winter Garden boasts a remarkable farmer's market. This vibrant gathering, situated in the heart of the city, truly comes alive on Saturdays. But why do so many flock to Winter Garden Farmers Market when the weekend hits? Well, the farm-fresh produce, delightful homemade treats, and a melodic backdrop of live music, of course! However, if you can't make it on Saturday, do not despair. The Plant Street Market operates from Thursday through Sunday and accommodates over 20 vendors. Best Markets in Orlando: Ivanhoe Village Ivanhoe Village has undergone a remarkable resurgence in recent times. This revitalization has been fueled by gentrified dining establishments and a vibrant nightlife scene, effectively elevating it to a coveted status as one of the city's premier destinations. Because of this, a ton of shops, stalls, and experiences have followed, ensuring visitors can enjoy a range of things to do. All of the above makes Ivanhoe Village an indispensable hotspot that captivates the attention of tourists and locals, offering an enticing tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. So why not go see what all the fuss is about? Best Markets in Orlando: Audubon Park Community Market Every Monday, when the sun starts to set, Stardust Coffee's parking lot comes alive with the Audubon Park Community Market. Expect a lively gathering brimming with locally-crafted culinary delights, artistic creations, and crafts. This vibrant market is designed to be inclusive, welcoming families and even four-legged companions, making it a splendid kick-off to the week. Whether you're seeking delectable fare, unique artisanal finds, or simply a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this market offers a spirited and pet-friendly haven that sets a wonderful tone for the days ahead. Best Markets in Orlando: Freshfields Farmers Market If you're looking for affordable local produce, the finest cuts of meat, and even some locally-sourced ice cream, step right up to Freshfields Farmers Market! "How can such delightful items be so affordable?" We hear you cry. Well, it's because a lot of it is sold in bulk, ensuring you can fill up the fridge-freezer for months to come. Local farmers man most of the stalls, selling stuff they've picked or cultivated themselves. So not only do you get a better deal on fresh produce, but the profits go straight back into the farm! Now that's sustainable! And those were our picks of the best markets in Orlando! If you're looking to upgrade the rest of your Orlando stay, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Orlando's Hidden Gems
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Orlando's Hidden Gems off the Beaten Path

Heading to a new city on vacation and seeing all experiencing all the top attractions is all well and good, but sometimes, you want to head off the beaten path and check out an area's hidden gems. Not only will you have smaller crowds and shorter queues, but it also gives you bragging rights when discussing said vacation with friends and family. That's why we're here to help. Check out our picks of Orlando's hidden gems, and get ready to blow people away. Including: Boggy Creek Airboat Tour Congo River Adventure Golf Gatorland Lion Country Safari and more! Boggy Creek Airboat Tour Orlando is known for many things; giant seaside properties, massive theme parks, and much more. But what Orlando also boasts is swamp land, and a lot of it. So, if you're in the city and want to see the side of it untouched by people, why not take an airboat tour of Orlando's swamps? With your expert pilot/guide in tow, you'll dash across murky waters in one of the most desolate places in America. Keep a camera or phone on hand because you'll need to take photos of alligators, turtles, birds, and many more species that call the swamp home. But let's be honest; the 'gators are the star of the show. If you want to almost guarantee you'll see them, you best take one of the earlier tours, because the best times to see them are before 10AM. Sure, that's an early start for a vacation, but it's worth it. Then when your tour ends, head to the gift shop for some 'gator-themed souvenirs. Congo River Adventure Golf There are many small joys in life. And while plugging a USB cable in the right way first-time is unarguably top of that list, right beneath it is mini golf. Nothing quite beats putting balls in holes without the pressure of impressing wealthy people. But have you ever mini-golfed in the Congo? No, of course not. Well, at Congo River Adventure Golf, you absolutely will. Featuring a full course of 18 challenging yet fun holes to overcome, you and some buddies will slowly work your way to the end, all the while surrounded by waterfalls, caves, and sneaky gorillas watching from behind rainforest. And, because it's in Orlando, you can also pet alligators, because of course you can. Congo River Adventure Golf is arguably one of Orlando's hidden gems, but it's absolutely worth a visit for a fun-filled afternoon. Gatorland What were we just saying about Orlando and alligators? While often overshadowed by the likes of Kennedy Space Center, SEALIFE, and a certain rodent-faced theme park, Gatorland may not be considered one of Orlando's hidden gems by locals or alligator enthusiasts. But for the rest of us, it probably is, and it more than earns its place on our list. For more than 50 years, Gatorland has brought the joy of alligators to the masses. And what joy is that, you ask? Well, you can watch a 'gator feeding frenzy at the Gator Jumparoo Show, watch death-defying shows of bravery at Alligators: Legends of the Swamp, and even pet some of the less-toothy animals at a petting zoo. There's plenty more to enjoy here, but you'll have to head there yourself to see it all. Lion Country Safari Orlando - and Florida in general - clearly has a love for wild and dangerous creatures. It must be from growing up so close to all them alligators. But the Lion Country Safari is 'gator-free, so if you're looking to see some exotic wildlife in their unnatural habitat - yes, including lions - then head on down for a rip-roaring time! You'll see giraffes, zebra, rhinos, and wildebeests all wandering around, doing what they do. And those are just some of the many wonderful beasts you'll encounter on your trip. Some will even come right up to your jeep, so prepare to snap some close-ups! And best of all, many people don't even know Orlando has a safari park, not only making it one of the city's hidden gems, but ensuring you won't have to queue for hours to see it all. Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling Tour We're going back to the water for our next pic of Orlando's hidden gems, but we're getting a bit more up close and personal now. Sure, you can look beneath your feet on this Glass Bottom Boat tour, but why not take the plunge and go snorkeling instead? Hop aboard a 45-foot, fully-outfitted catamaran as you make your way to the not-so-famous Fort Lauderdale Twin Ledges, where your ship will drop anchor and give you a chance to meet some sea life up close. Keep an eye out for turtles, rays, and a range of colorful fish as they swim all around you. Whether you're a snorkeling pro or a complete newbie, you're more than welcome to put some kit on and get in the water, so don't let a lack of experience stop you! Just make sure you bring your camera, and preferably a waterproof one! Millionaire's Row Sightseeing Cruise And finally, we'll end our exploration of Orlando's hidden gems by exploring the world of those who can afford plenty of them. Yes, we're entering the world of the rich and famous, seeing where the money lives, and feeling deeply envious about the whole endeavor. Take this Millionaire's Row sightseeing cruise, and you'll board a luxury yacht to go and see luxury houses. You'll pass by Port of Miami, Fisher Island, Miami Beach, Millionaire's Row, and much more, and your multi-lingual guide will be on hand to tell you what you're looking at. No matter rain or shine, you'll be well-served thanks to a fully air-conditioned viewing platform below deck, snacks and drinks to tuck into, and, of course, plenty of rich people's houses to photograph. And those are our picks of Orlando's hidden gems! Of course, there's plenty more to Orlando than the lesser-known attractions. So, if you want to see all of the city's best bits for one low price, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you're in complete control.
Dom Bewley

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