Things to do in Orlando for Birthdays

Published: July 18, 2024

Though getting a year older can be a little daunting for some people, taking a vacation can sure soften the blow – and give us a reason to let loose and have a bit of fun! Thankfully, Orlando is the perfect place to celebrate, with exciting activities and attractions for those of all ages. For thrillseekers and dreamers alike, there’s no better place to be than the Magic Kingdom, of course. If you’re looking for something a little more out of the box, the Tree Trek Adventure Park provides a fantastic action-packed experience set against the backdrop of the wondrous local landscape. Or, if you just want to relax on your special day, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is the perfect respite from the city. No matter where your interests may lie, the city has so much to offer for every type of traveller.

Hit the Theme Parks

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Though Orlando is packed with fantastic birthday attractions, one spot most certainly stands out above them all – yup, that’s right, it’s the Magic Kingdom! Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place is known as one of the world's leading theme parks – and it's easy to see why. Offering over 40 rides, shows, and shopping destinations, the park is a great stop for young families and big groups as it has a wide variety of things to choose from. Here you’ll find favorites like Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, amongst other world-famous attractions. An ultimate classic and eternal crowd-pleaser, this place is sure to bring that extra touch of magic to the party.

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Party planning can be a lot of effort; however, Orlando kind of does all the hard work for us. If you’re looking to bring your birthday year in with a splash, why not head over to Universal’s Volcano Bay? A constituent of the Universal Resort, this place is recognized as one of the top aquatic attractions in North America. For those looking to celebrate their birthday with a little bit of excitement and adventure, this place pretty much has it all. You’ll be able to find everything from edgy thrill rides and tube slides to rapid rides and wave pools, all in one place. Still, for those members of the group who prefer to play it safe, the park also has a beach area and cabanas to chill under. In addition, there are a number of dining options, making this spot perfect for large parties. Bringing the good clean fun to the party, there’s nobody who doesn’t enjoy a good water park!

Have Fun Outdoors

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Travelling with kids can be a difficult feat, let alone when there’s a birthday coming up. If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, you might want to check out the next item on our list. Perfect for bold and energetic youngsters, the Tree Trek Adventure Park changes up the scenery by providing a memorable experience set against the natural pine forests of Kissimmee. This experience involves tackling a challenging aerial obstacle course to truly get the adrenaline pumping. With around 100 different games, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. Whiz through the trees on zip lines, test your balance on the suspended bridges and climb up 50-foot ladders. There are different courses catering to variant age groups and the experience is run by professional guides to ensure personal safety.

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For those who want to keep it a little more low-key, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Perfect for any occasion big or small, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is one of our favorite things to do in Orlando. Situated just a quick ride out from Disney World, the reserve covers over 12, 000 acres of swampland and lakes to be explored. A fantastic stop for nature lovers, the park features over 1,000 species of plants and animals all thriving together. This place is a fantastic choice since it provides a wide variety of fun on-site activities and excursions to be enjoyed. Beat the heat in one of the park’s pool areas, cruise some of the city’s most stunning lakes, or kick back with a movie under the stars. Whatever you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great!

Have a Blast!

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If you’re having trouble picking an activity, why not go for something that everybody will enjoy? Located just north of the city, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers a fantastic way to view animals in a kind and respectful way. Standing out from other zoological gardens you may have come across, this place acquires its name from the native gardens on which it is built. As an effect, you can stroll through beautiful protected wetlands, view animals native to the area, and get friendly with some interesting reptiles. Still, this place isn’t all about its local creatures. In fact, you can view over 500 animals on the premises from over 205 species, including big cats, giraffes, and a wonderful Indian rhinoceros. Combining fun with learning, the institute works to teach its visitors about environmentalism and animal conservation. What could possibly be more wholesome?

As far as classic things to do on your birthday go, museums don’t usually top the list. Though the thought of it can sound a little dull, we promise that this next suggestion is anything but. A sure-fire way to keep everybody entertained, the Museum of Illusions offers an interactive, immersive experience to keep you guessing. Inside, the institute has around 50 exciting exhibits which work to trick the eye and twist the mind. If you’re looking for a way to test your one-year-older brain, here it is. Just don’t forget to bring your camera!

Everybody has different ideas for what makes the perfect birthday. Luckily, Orlando is the perfect destination for a spot of birthday bliss. Whether you’re looking to go classic with a trip to the Magic Kingdom, get nostalgic at the waterpark, or choose something a little more laid-back, the city has something for every type of traveller. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Visiting LEGOLAND® Florida Resort - Discount Admission, Tips & More

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven, just 45 minutes from Orlando and Tampa, is a multi-day vacation destination designed for children 2-12 years old. This super popular resort includes an interactive, 150-acre theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, a world-famous botanical garden and the 5-acre LEGOLAND Water Park. You'll also find the LEGOLAND Hotel, located just steps from the theme park entrance. This unique lodging option features 152 rooms and suites, each with its own LEGO® theme and some with beautiful views of nearby Lake Eloise. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, packed full of tips for visiting, ways to save on admission, other nearby attractions, and much more. How to get LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – LEGOLAND® Florida Resort admission is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. See all available Orlando passes, attractions & prices. Families with kids won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore all that LEGOLAND Florida Resort has to offer. Tips for Visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort Be sure to download the Quest to LEGOLAND® app, the brand new GPS adventure game from LEGOLAND Florida Resort. It offers games and trivia for kids as you travel towards the park. If you are visiting with older teens, be aware that this theme park is geared more towards kids between the ages of 3 – 10 (although anyone with a passion for LEGOs will get a kick out of the building activities). Parking at LEGOLAND Florida Resort is $17, but you can save $2 if you purchase parking in advance online. Scope out the park map before you visit to plan your itinerary. Save money on admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort with your pass! If you’re traveling with large bags or other items, lockers are available for rental. Because the park is geared towards children, there are a number of height requirements you should take into consideration before deciding what rides to see. Given that scattered thunderstorms are common in Central Florida, save some indoor attractions or shopping time for the inevitable afternoon rain. If you have really small children, bring your own stroller to avoid paying the rental fee. Small snacks and water can be brought into the park; other food items can be easily purchased once inside. When is the best time to visit LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Like most theme parks, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will be busiest in the heart of the afternoon. Arrive early in the morning and miss out on the longest lines for the first part of your day. What to bring to LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Comfortable shoes. You'll be walking quite a bit around this sizable park. Sunblock and a hat. Florida is notorious for giving people sunburn even on cloudy days. A bathing suit, for the water park. Trust us -- you'll end up getting soaked even if you don't go on rides with the kids. A camera or phone. You'll want to capture the looks of complete and utter joy on your kids' faces. Money for souvenirs and lunch. There are plenty of places in the park to shop and dine. Minifigures! You can exchange them at the park for a new and exciting minifigure. What is there to do at LEGOLAND Florida Resort? The wonders are endless at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, but here is a selection of our favorite rides and attractions in the park. Be sure to check out LEGO NINJAGO World and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat too. LEGO® NINJAGO® World LEGO NINJAGO World is a hot new component of LEGOLAND. Kids are invited to enter a magical martial arts kingdom where you become the ninja in your very own LEGO®NINJAGO® [NIN-JAH-GO] adventure. LEGO NINJAGO World is an immersive area filled with several hands-on, outdoor activities where kids can sharpen their ninja skills before the ultimate showdown on LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, a dazzling new attraction that blends 3D computer animation, “4D” effects and groundbreaking technology never seen outside a LEGOLAND theme park. LEGOLAND Beach Retreat Designed with the same attention to detail and kid-centric features that made LEGOLAND Hotel an immediate hit, LEGOLAND Beach Retreat is a village-style vacation resort with 83 beach-themed bungalows offering 166 separate rooms, each with whimsical LEGO décor inside and out. The brightly colored bungalows are grouped into 13 “coves” named after popular LEGO Minifigures. Each includes an outdoor play area with fun and challenging elements, all within view of the bungalows’ shaded patios, where mom and dad can relax while kids play. Located about a half-mile from the theme park entrance, the site also features a central swimming pool and sandy play area, a buffet restaurant, pool bar, a giant LEGO-inspired lighthouse with a real rotating beacon and picturesque views of Lake Dexter. LEGO World of Chima Based upon the immensely popular line of toys presented by Cartoon Network, the World of Chima is filled with tons of great rides and experiences. Splash through an interactive water ride with the whole family, undertake the monumental Quest for CHI, race through SpeedzorzTM Arena, roam through Cragger’s Swamp, and immerse yourself in a 4-D movie experience. Miniland USA Adults and kids alike will get a kick out of this exhibit, which contains scale replicas of famous cities, buildings, and monuments from around the country. Featured local attractions in this Miniland include Daytona International Speedway and the Kennedy Space Center, as well as an homage to the state of Florida. You'll also see Miniland construction imitating New York City, California, Las Vegas, and more. Here is also where you'll find the LEGO Star Wars exhibits! DUPLO® Valley This area is specially designed for the littlest of guests, featuring a train, a mini tractor ride, and a water play area. Toddlers will also enjoy a DUPLO Farm and the DUPLO Tot Spot. There’s even a snack center and daycare in here. LEGO Kingdoms LEGO Kingdoms will bring you back in time to the medieval era when knights roamed the earth fighting dragons and saving damsels in distress. Explore the LEGOLAND castle, engage in the Royal Joust, crawl into the Forestman’s Hideout, be thrilled on the Dragon Coaster, and climb aboard the Merlin’s Challenge train. Land of Adventure Explore long-lost tombs and search for treasure in the Land of Adventure. Then, hop aboard the Safari Trek for a tour of life-size LEGO animals. Roam the maze in Pharaoh’s Revenge, and launch high into the air on the Beetle Bounce. There’s no end to the excitement in this part of the park. Imagination Zone This region of the park really brings out the creativity and ingenuity in kids. Kids can build their own LEGO cars, construct and program LEGO MindstormsTM robots, and immerse themselves in the world of LEGO’s Hero Factory line. Plus, you can see some of the best LEGO sculptures in the world here! Pirate’s Cove Who doesn’t love a good splash fight? LEGOLAND’s Pirate’s Cove features a one-of-a-kind water ski and stunt show in which LEGO-clad pirates have taken over Lake Eloise. LEGO City Kids can play at being an adult in the LEGO City, without any of the downsides! Be a firefighter or policeman and save the day at the Rescue Academy. Hop aboard a small-scale driving course, fly through the air on a steel coaster in the Flying School, and captain your own ship in the Boating School. Heartlake City One of the newer regions of the park, Heartlake City is an area designed especially for the female LEGO fans in the family. Based on the popular LEGO Friends line, this destination is filled with fun adventures for kids of all ages. Enjoy a horse-themed disc coaster on Mia’s Riding Adventure, take a photo at Stephanie’s Heartlake News Desk, and explore specialty shops. Botanical Gardens One of my personal favorite areas of LEGOLAND is the Botanical Gardens. Here you'll find a historical garden filled with cypress trees and other native plants. It's been restored to its original glory and re-imagined as a resource for curious kids looking to learn about the environment around them in Florida. You'll also find lush flowers like camellias, azaleas, and more. There's even a tree that was planted in 1939, a Banyan tree that still watches over the garden. What attractions are near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Because LEGOLAND Florida Resort is centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, there are a number of attractions within driving distance if you want to fit a morning at LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a larger itinerary. Here are a few of the closest. Little kids will love a visit to the charming Green Meadows Petting Farm, a great interactive zoo-like experience. Nature-lovers won’t want to miss out on a scenic nature tour by Boggy Creek Airboats. Looking for more theme park rides? Check out Fun Spot America for some great attractions and rides. How much more Florida can you get than the famous Gatorland? Pay a visit to this unique adventure park for the experience of a lifetime. Looking for more information about the area? Check out our Orlando neighborhoods guide. What attractions are near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Because LEGOLAND Florida Resort is centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, there are a number of attractions within driving distance if you want to fit a morning at LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a larger itinerary. Here are a few of the closest. Little kids will love a visit to the charming Green Meadows Petting Farm, a great interactive zoo-like experience. Nature-lovers won’t want to miss out on a scenic nature tour by Boggy Creek Airboats. Looking for more theme park rides? Check out Fun Spot America for some great attractions and rides. How much more Florida can you get than the famous Gatorland? Pay a visit to this unique adventure park for the experience of a lifetime. Looking for more information about the area? Check out our Orlando neighborhoods guide. What is there to eat near LEGOLAND Florida Resort? Given the scope of the park and the fact that you’ll probably spend an entire day there, it makes the most sense to eat in the park. Here’s a selection of the kinds of dining options available at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The Market Restaurant is open the entire time the park is, and serves healthy options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including gluten free and vegetarian fare. If you’re in the mood for a treat, check out Granny’s Apple Fries for delicious things. Trying to please picky eaters? Then head to the Pizza and Pasta Buffet for some good old-fashioned carbs. There’s even a salad bar for the health-conscious. Another dessert option is Sunny’s Ice Cream Shop – perfect for hot summer afternoons. If the kids loved the Land of Adventure, treat them to a dinner at Castle Burger. Who says no to fried chicken? No one at Fried Chicken Co. Looking for a sandwich option? Try I-Zone Paninis or Lakeside Sandwich Co. Need to Know Hours Hours vary seasonally; check the operating calendar for the dates of your visit. Address & Directions One LEGOLAND Way Winter Haven, FL 33884 Driving Directions: From Orlando, take I-4 WEST to exit 55 (US Highway 27 South). Turn right off U.S. Highway 27 at State Road 540/Cypress Gardens Boulevard. Park is four miles on the left. Public Transportation: Round trip transportation from the I-Drive 360 at 8350 Universal Blvd, Orlando 32819. Note: Shuttle service is by reservation only and reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Call (877) 350-5346 and hit * to make a reservation. Save on Admission with Go City® Remember, a pass for Orlando with Go City® is one of the best choices for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes LEGOLAND® Florida Resort tickets, plus admission to dozens more top attractions. You'll make great savings on top sightseeing tours, and popular activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price. Families with kids won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore all that LEGOLAND Florida Resort has to offer.
Katie Sagal
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Orlando in October

Fall is arguably the best time of the year to plan a visit to Orlando. Though the city isn’t exactly known for its crisp breeze and fall foliage, autumn provides a much-welcomed break from Orlando’s high summer temperatures. Thankfully, this time of the year is still warm, which means that you can still visit all of the area’s wonderful outdoor attractions, just as you would any other time of the year – but with less of a fuss! Trust us when we say that you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing from exciting things to do in the area. The city’s world-class amusement parks are an absolute must-see for thrillseekers and those travelling with family. If you’re looking to spend some time in nature, look no further than Harry P. Leu Gardens. Or, immerse yourself in the true culture of the city at Winter Park Autumn Art Festival. So, grab your planner and get ready to jot some things down. Whatever you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great! Hit the Classics No visit to Orlando would be complete without checking out Universal Studios. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place is considered to be one of the most popular theme parks in the United States – and with good reason! Movie buffs and pop culture aficionados alike will enjoy its playful theme geared towards the entertainment industry, while there are over 30 rides and attractions to enjoy all year round. Still, if you’re anything like us, Halloween is your favorite holiday – and thankfully, Universal pulls out all the stops. For a spookier experience, don’t miss out on the park’s haunted houses, scream-filled scare zones, and live shows. Exceptionally frightful and undoubtedly awesome, this place certainly knows how to do Halloween justice! A total classic for those of all ages, Magic Kingdom is one of those places that everyone should visit at least once in a lifetime. Standing out against all other outdoor attractions in the city, this iconic Orlando mainstay is now a fundamental part of American culture. Walking around the park can be a little overwhelming for some, but we always recommend you hit the highlights – If an adrenaline rush is what you’re after, head over to Splash Mountain. For those looking for something with a little less bite, It’s a Small World would be your best bet. Or, for a true slice of Americana, try The Hall of Presidents. No matter where your interests may lie, you’re sure to find something for you. Though this place is known for its whimsical aesthetic all year round, it transforms to offer something a little different during the month of October. For all the Halloween lovers out there, don’t forget to check out the After Hours Boo Bash and Minnie’s Halloween Dine. The ultimate crowdpleaser that never goes out of style, we love this place because it always puts a smile on our face. Find Fun Activities Those travelling with family might appreciate the next item on our list. Another top player in the fantasy land game, Legoland garners enduring popularity for its specialist theme and kid-friendly rides. Based upon the popular children's toy after which it is named, the park is designed for children aged between 2-12 (but don’t tell us what to do!) Legoland is split into twelve separate areas, each with their own unique theme, and even includes botanical gardens which are preserved from its previous site. When Halloween rolls around, you can also catch costume competitions, themed shows and a pumpkin trail. We recommend checking the website before heading out, so you know when the special events are taking place. Of course, it wouldn’t be autumn without Oktoberfest. Held every year at Avalon Park, the fun never stops coming at this lively historic festival. Bringing Bavarian tradition to the City Beautiful, there’s a lot of fun to be had here. Sip a nice cold one in the beer garden, get festive with some Alpine dancing, and enjoy a hot bratwurst fresh off the stove. In addition, there are child-friendly games and activities, so nobody is left out! With its incredible atmosphere, we honestly couldn’t think of a better way to bring in the fall. Try Something Different If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend the afternoon in Orlando, why not check out the Winter Park Autumn Art Festival? Running every October for over forty years now, this community-oriented sidewalk show proudly features the work of over 180 first-rate local artists. Walking around the festival, you’ll see everything from digital pieces and photography to fine art and sculpture. Still, there’s a lot more to see than just art here, with live music and comedy, and of course, an abundance of food to be enjoyed. The perfect stop for all creative types, we definitely don’t recommend skipping out on this one! With the cooler weather throughout the month, we highly suggest checking out some of the area’s beautiful green spaces. Founded in the late 1800s, Harry P. Leu Gardens is a big favorite for locals and visitors alike. The Leus travelled all over the world, bringing back exotic greenery to fill their gardens. Thankfully, the park is open to the public all year round, offering a great respite from the city. The park has a tropical rain forest, Florida's largest formal rose garden, and even a butterfly garden to be explored. Take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, and don’t forget to make a stop at the Leu House Museum. Whichever way you choose to enjoy this lovely botanical oasis, there’s more than enough to see and do here. If you're looking to get in touch with Mother Nature, or simply just a quiet spot of contemplation, this is the way to go about things. October brings pleasant temperatures and wonderful energy, making it a great time to explore Orlando. The city is in full swing, with exciting events popping up all over the area throughout the entire month. Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or just passing through, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Of course, Halloween is the highlight of the month, and you can get in on the fun and festivities at almost every turn. Other big favorites include Oktoberfest and the Winter Park Autumn Art Festival, where you can soak up that incredible atmosphere. Still, don’t forget to seize the opportunity to enjoy the city’s best outdoor attractions in the cooler weather. 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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