Things to Do in Orlando When it Rains

From wacky museums to shopping and dining, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Orlando

Orlando is a lovely city to visit year-round, but it does have a rainy season between June and September. So if you’re traveling to Orlando during the summer, it’s likely that you’ll run into some rain. In search of things to do in Orlando when it rains? Check out a few of our favorite indoor options to make the most of bad weather in Florida.

A few of the available activities include...

  • WonderWorks
  • Kennedy Space Center Complex
  • ICON Orlando
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
  • Madame Tussauds
  • And more!

WonderWorks Orlando

The hardest part of a rainy vacation when traveling as a family is the problem of how to keep the kids occupied on a day when they can’t run around and play.

Let us solve that problem for you – pay a visit to the amazing WonderWorks Orlando and your kids can run, play, and learn to their hearts’ content. They call themselves an indoor amusement park, and that’s a pretty apt description. There are dozens of exhibits, themed areas, and interactive objects that allow visitors to learn as they play.

WonderWorld

A few ideas include...

 

  • Get blown away by hurricane-force winds and then feel what it’s like to experience an earthquake that measures 5.3 on the Richter scale in Disaster Zone.
     
  • In Bed of Nails, lie on a bed of thousands of super sharp nails and feel absolutely nothing. (Then learn the science behind it!)
     
  • Make your way to the mound and pitch to your favorite Major League players at Velocity Ball. 
     
  • Play a sport unlike any other - Mind Ball. This challenging biofeedback game for two employs EEG technology, allowing players to use their brains (only!) to move the ball. across the table.
     
  • In WonderCoasters, build a virtual roller coaster with the Wonder Simulator, and then go for a ride on it! Anything’s possible when you can turn 360 degrees in every direction!
     
  • Climb to the top of the Indoor Ropes Challenge Course, a three-story, glow-in-the-dark course complete with 20 different obstacles.
     
  • One minute you’re in the theater and the next you’re in the middle of the action with the 4D Extreme Motion Ride. The 12-seat theater takes visitors to new levels of entertainment by combining 3D film with special effects and full-motion seats.
     
  • Enjoy a little friendly competition with a game of Lazer-Tag in WonderWorks’ enormous (10,000 square feet!) blacklit maze.

Kennedy Space Center Complex

Literally millions of visitors flock to this amazing complex each and every year. The Kennedy Space Center is the heart of spaceflight in the United States, and it’s one of the top attractions in all of Orlando.

While it’s home to NASA’s launch headquarters, it includes so much more than that for visitors. Travelers can see giant rockets, spend some time in real flight simulators, meet a veteran astronaut, and much more. Take a tour of the facilities, take in an informative IMAX show, and you’ll get the complete Kennedy Space Center experience.

NASA

ICON Orlando

Although your view will be a bit foggier than it might be on a clear day, it’s still a good chance to see the beautiful cityscape from 400 feet in the air on the fabulous ICON Orlando.

Of course, you’ll see beyond just Orlando, too – you can see glimpses far into Central Florida, including local theme parks and greenspaces. It’s a great opportunity to snap some fun photos with the whole family, plus there’s something very cool about seeing rain from up above, too.

Ripley's Believe it or Not!

Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of the weird and wonderful things going on at Ripley’s Believe it or Not! There are hundreds of different exhibits that are designed to attract visitors of all stripes, whether you’re intrigued by shrunken heads or are fascinated by dinosaur fossils.

The extensive collections at Ripley’s span much of the natural and manmade world, and include things as diverse as micro-sculptures and a section of the Berlin Wall.

💰 >> See how you can save up to 50% on Orlando attractions

Titanic

Titanic: The Artifact

So you’ve seen the movie a time or three. Now it’s time to explore the real history of the world’s most famous sinking ship at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. This 20,000-sqft attraction recreates models of the iconic places of this beautiful ship, from the Grand Staircase to the First Class Parlor Suite.

Actors in costume play real figures from the Titanic as they tell you all about the history of her design, construction, and fateful journey. Enjoy an hour-long guided tour of the facilities, then explore on your own as you wander through 200 artifacts from the ship and the Hollywood production.

American Police Hall of Fame

Fans of police procedurals like CSI and Law and Order will relish the chance to explore the super informative American Police Hall of Fame.

See how crime-solving plays out in real life, with a chance to view real forensic technologies and tools, view fun artifacts like counterfeit money, and see a model crime scene. It’s fun for kids and adults, so don’t worry about scaring little ones.

American Police Hall of Fame

Museum of Science and Industry

Take a ride to Tampa to explore one of the region’s most popular museums – the Museum of Science and Industry. A distinctive science museum, MOSI offers more than just exhibits about how things work. Instead, they have interactive, immersive exhibits that involve you in learning the practice and principles behind a phenomenon or invention.

Investigate the future of 3D printing, sit back and relax in a driverless car, explore NASA’s model moon base, and more! Although it’s primarily geared toward kids, adults will get a kick of out this attraction, too.

SEA LIFE Orlando

Animal lovers rejoice! The delightful SEA LIFE Orlando aquarium offers all the beauty and color of the world’s waterways in a convenient indoor setting. It's home to more than 5,000 aquatic plants and animals.

Check out the themed habitats and learn all about sea life in the highly interactive displays. You can see sharks and sea turtles swimming overhead as you take your turn in the 360-degree ocean tunnel and even touch a green sea anemone in the hands-on rock pool.

Sea Life

Madame Tussauds Orlando

A visit to Madame Tussauds is the perfect indoor attraction that everyone will love. Get a taste of what it's like to mingle with the stars! Enjoy the opportunity to "meet" your favorite celebrities and snap that perfect photo. Various themed areas in this popular attraction feature actors like Brad Pitt, musicians like Taylor Swift, and even directors like Steven Spielberg.

Madame Tussauds Orlando
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

Dinner Shows & Festive Dining

A popular vacation idea in Orlando is the dinner show. There are many varieties, but what they all share in common is food, fun, and a great evening. Choose wonder and amazement at the Cirque Magique Dinner Show. You'll see everything from exciting magic tricks to delightful acrobatic feats.

If you're looking for something more immersive, the Pirate's Dinner Show is a treat for the whole family. It features swashbuckling and a series of massive ships modeled after historic vessels. Seriously, you'll feel like you're dining in a pirate lagoon. If your party consists of adults only, then you might want to head to the Treasure Tavern. It offers hilarious and mildly naughty humor alongside tasty food and drinks.

Enjoy some shopping

One of our favorite things to do on a rainy day is to take advantage of local Orlando shopping opportunities. Make the most of them and get some souvenirs, restock our closets, or pick up something special.

Some top local places to shop around Orlando include the upscale Mall at Millenia and the popular Orlando International Premium Outlets. Or, try the family-friendly Pointe Orlando, which also includes movie theaters and restaurants. If you are looking to shop when the weather is not quite so rainy, head to Winter Park for some cute boutique shops and local hidden gems.

Shopping in Orlando

The Escape Game Orlando

Escape rooms are perfect for rainy days. Challenge a group of friends or family to one of several themed games. You’ll have 60 minutes to put your problem-solving skills to the test. Can you work as a team to escape before it's too late?

Take your pick from loads of uniquely themed games including Playground, and be transported back to your childhood for some crazy classroom assignments. Or, choose Mission Mars, where you’ll work together to repair a spaceship so you can get back to Earth.

Escape the miserable weather and get stuck into solving some tricky puzzles and fun challenges.

Rainy Day Recap

Rainy day in Orlando? No worries! There are plenty of indoor activities and things to do to enjoy with the whole family. Keep in mind that many theme parks also offer indoor components, even if the bulk of their activities are outside.

Visiting during a rainy day can sometimes be an advantage because you’ll encounter fewer lines at certain times of the year.

Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City®

With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your Orlando must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you've chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you're dreaming of ticking off. So pick whichever Orlando attraction pass suits you and go see the sights!

☀️ Compare Orlando passes ☀️– 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a pass ✈

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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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
family enjoying a ride in a waterpark
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Seven Days in Orlando: A Week of Nonstop Fun

Orlando means different things to every traveler—theme park fanatics swoon for rollercoasters while wildlife lovers gear up for gator encounters. But what if you want to do it all? Good news: seven days in Orlando gives you time to hop between rocket launches, wild animal adventures, immersive museums, and delicious dining, all under the sizzling Florida sun. Whether you’re bringing kids, traveling with friends, or carving out some couple time, we’ve lined up a weeklong itinerary that’s brimming with fun, packed with easily doable routes, and topped with tasty recommendations. Get your planners ready—adventure awaits!  Here’s where to go for the best Orlando week ever:  Kennedy Space Center  LEGOLAND® Florida  Gatorland  WonderWorks  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Madame Tussauds Orlando  The Orlando Eye  Chocolate Kingdom  CoCo Key Water Park  Museum of Illusions  Daytona International Speedway Track Tour  The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show  Congo River Adventure Golf  Clearwater Marine Aquarium  Island H2O Water Park  Day 1: Outer Space and Ocean Explorers  Morning: Kennedy Space Center  Kick off your Orlando adventure with a blast—literally—at the Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island. No need to rent a spaceship—just hop on a Greyhound bus or Lynx public transport to the Titusville area, then grab a shuttle or ride share for the final leg (about an hour’s journey). The Center’s launchpads, astronaut meet-and-greets, and Saturn V Rocket make everyone feel like a kid again. You’ll get hands-on with interactive exhibits and walk beneath gigantic rockets that shaped history. The vibe is widescreen epic—think awe, inspiration, and a sprinkle of pixie dust for space fans young and old.  Lunch: Moon Rock Café  Fuel up at the Kennedy Space Center’s Moon Rock Café—it’s no frills, but the chicken tenders and mac on a sunny terrace hit the spot, and you might spot astronauts passing through.  Afternoon: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium  Return to downtown Orlando by catching Lynx bus 8 back toward the I-Drive area (International Drive), the hub for your next set of adventures. Take a breezy stroll to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, a wonderland beneath the waves. Its 360° ocean tunnel feels immersive and peaceful, with sharks, stingrays, and colorful reef fish gliding overhead. Check out the jellyfish zone and a gentle seahorse nursery—perfect for that calming, “I’m definitely on vacation” moment.  Evening: The Orlando Eye  As sunset colors start swirling, walk next door to the Orlando Eye. Step into a futuristic glass pod—cue gentle air-con and tunes—then soar 400 feet up for the region’s best panoramic views. Downtown’s skyline sparkles as the theme parks light up in the distance, creating a spectacular introduction to your week in Orlando.  Dinner: Yard House at ICON Park  A short stroll delivers you to Yard House, where craft beer fans rejoice over an epic tap list. Try the Nashville hot chicken sandwich or Korean BBQ wings, surrounded by big screens and upbeat chatter.  Day 2: Bricks, Explorations & Optical Illusions  Morning: LEGOLAND® Florida  Start day two in style with LEGOLAND®! Bus route 30 (from downtown Orlando to Winter Haven) connects you to the free LEGOLAND® Florida shuttle at Winter Haven’s transit terminal. It’s great for families and nostalgic adults, offering enough coasters, splash zones, and interactive exhibits to leave everyone smiling. Don’t miss Miniland USA—the handcrafted Lego cities are an impressive feat of creativity—while Ninjago World and the LEGO® Driving School are top picks for little ones.  Lunch: LEGOLAND® Grub  Stroll the colorful walkways and grab lunch at Brickbeard’s Food Market, known for its cheerful staff and pasta bowls—the outdoor seating has a lake breeze and room for kids to spread out.  Afternoon: Museum of Illusions  Head back toward I-Drive via the shuttle and bus, then make your way to Museum of Illusions. If you think you’ve seen all the selfie spots Orlando has to offer, think again. This museum’s grin-inducing optical illusions, vortex tunnels, and mind-bending mirrored rooms create endless “wait, what?” moments—perfect for sharing or family photos that will keep you chuckling long after your trip.  Dinner: The Oceanaire Seafood Room  For dinner, try The Oceanaire Seafood Room at Pointe Orlando—a smooth, upscale dining space with mood lighting and fresh Florida seafood. Share their decadent lobster mac or tuck into their signature oysters for something special. The lively yet elegant atmosphere is perfect for winding down after a day on the go.  Day 3: Gators, Chocolate, and Wonder  Lunch: Pearl’s Smokehouse  On-site at Gatorland, the rustic Pearl’s Smokehouse serves up smoky pulled pork sandwiches, alligator nuggets (yep, really!), and cold sodas. Claim a shady picnic table and watch the swampy world go by.  Afternoon: Chocolate Kingdom  Grab rideshare back up to the Kissimmee area (about 20 minutes), where chocolate dreams come true at Chocolate Kingdom. This interactive factory tour takes you bean-to-bar, weaving in storytelling, tastings, and the intoxicating aroma of melted chocolate. Kids get hands-on making candy, and grown-ups can customize a chocolate bar with toppings galore. Warning: the gift shop will test your willpower—but you’re on vacation, right?  Evening: WonderWorks Orlando  From Chocolate Kingdom, it’s an easy Lynx Route 56 ride back to I-Drive for an evening at WonderWorks. With its upside-down facade and kooky science exhibits, it’s hard not to smile as soon as you see it. Lean into laser tag, crawl through hurricane wind tunnels, and test your skills at the ropes course—there’s no better mix of learning and laughter.  Dinner: Café Tu Tu Tango  Cap off the evening with small plates, local art and live entertainment at Café Tu Tu Tango—every wall is an explosion of creativity, and their eclectic menu means you can sample chipotle honey wings, Spanish-style shrimp, and sangria all at once.  Day 4: Cars, Cruises, and Classic Fun  Morning: Daytona International Speedway Track Tour  Take a break from theme parks—jump on SunRail or Greyhound to Daytona Beach, then transfer to the Votran bus for the Daytona International Speedway Track Tour. Fast cars, fascinating history, and behind-the-scenes glimpses put you right on the asphalt where legends drive. Young racing fans will love climbing up the grandstands, and gearheads get their fill of classic auto nostalgia.  Lunch: Sloppy Joe’s Daytona Beach  Head towards the beach for lunch at Sloppy Joe’s— laidback, oceanfront and colorful. Their mojitos and the crab cake sandwich are favorites, best enjoyed on the outdoor deck with sea breezes and stellar people-watching.  Afternoon: Millionaire’s Row Cruise by Island Queen Cruises  Hop on the FlixBus to Miami (if you want a day trip splurge—just two days a week on this route!), where you’ll discover the glam glitz of Miami’s Millionaire’s Row Cruise. It’s a treat for everyone: sun, wind, celebrity stories, and dreamy yachts all float by with commentary. Otherwise, save time and head back to Orlando for a more relaxed afternoon.  Evening: The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show  Back in Orlando, book a table at The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show at WonderWorks. The show uses interactive magic and improv to keep every age laughing. The ticket includes unlimited pizza and salad, so bring your appetite.  Day 5: Water Parks and Wild Sights  Lunch: River Park Café  Walk over to the River Park Café—riverside tables, friendly staff, and an all-day breakfast menu with everything from pancakes to pressed Cuban sandwiches—a breezy break from the action.  Afternoon: Congo River Adventure Golf  Hop the Lynx bus back up to International Drive for an afternoon round at Congo River Adventure Golf. Putt your way past waterfalls, caves, and playful jungle décor—the mini-golf vibe is both lively and leafy. Kids can dig for “gems” while grownups enjoy the relaxed, outdoor atmosphere.  Evening: Free Fun at Disney Springs  Orlando’s got plenty of free fun, and Disney Springs is top of the list in the evening—catch live music on the plazas, browse unique boutiques, or simply wander along the waterfront. The open-air atmosphere and street performers make for a festive end to the day.  Dinner: The Boathouse  For dinner, The Boathouse delivers dockside dining with their legendary lobster roll, fresh seafood, and lively vintage-vibe interior complete with floating cars and classic boats. Sunset here is magical, with twinkling lights over the water.  Day 6: Aquariums, Safaris, and Shopping Sprees  Morning: Clearwater Marine Aquarium  Catch the Amtrak or RedCoach bus to Clearwater (just under two hours), where the Clearwater Marine Aquarium lets you meet rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays in a bright, airy space. The staff’s passion is contagious, and learning about the animals’ rescue stories is both moving and uplifting.  Lunch: The Bait House  On the marina, The Bait House is a fun, nautical gem with anchoring sailboats, a chalkboard menu, and their signature blackened grouper sandwich. Grab a picnic table above the water and soak in the relaxed vibe.  Afternoon: CoCo Key Water Park  Bus back to Orlando for an afternoon at CoCo Key Water Park, a family-friendly oasis with bright slides, play structures, and a massive canopy for shade. The crowd’s young, but even adults appreciate the winding lazy river and tropical cocktails from the poolside tiki bar.  Evening: Premium Outlets Orlando  Round off the day at the Orlando International Premium Outlets. The bargains speak for themselves: from designer handbags to sporty sneakers, the open-air mall is a treasure trove for savvy shoppers.  Day 7: Museums, Magic and Final Goodbyes  Morning: Madame Tussauds Orlando  On the final day in Orlando, head back to International Drive for waxwork magic at Madame Tussauds. From superstar singers to superheroes, the collection is interactive and surprisingly lifelike. Snap selfies with the “stars” in themed rooms that are playful and endlessly entertaining.  Lunch: Sugar Factory  Next door, the Sugar Factory is a feast for the senses—rainbow-colored martinis, monster milkshakes, and plates piled high with burgers or pancakes. Kids love the lollipop-decorated interiors; adults can sip creative cocktails and enjoy the bustling scene.  Afternoon: Lion Country Safari  Jump on Greyhound toward West Palm Beach, then a local shuttle to Lion Country Safari—it takes some planning but is worth every minute. The drive-through safari parks immerse you in wide-open savannas, where zebras and rhinos amble past your ride. Afterwards, explore interactive animal exhibits: feeding giraffes, splashing in the Safari Splash water zone, or simply soaking up African-inspired surroundings.  Evening: Sunsets and Goodbye Drinks  Back in Orlando, close out your week with a celebration. Margaritaville Resort’s Euphoria Bar is an open, stylish spot with sunset cocktails and live music. Raise a glass to a week well spent and start plotting your return.    Seven days go fast, but Orlando packs every moment with adventure, flavor, and a dash of Florida sunshine. Whether you’re thrill-seeking on roller coasters, gazing at dolphins, unraveling illusions, or relaxing with riverside bites, every day comes with surprise and discovery. Here’s to making the most of every day—and every smile—in the City Beautiful!    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or browse the city’s market scene.     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 in December

When picturing Orlando, the first thing that comes to mind may be its summery weather and famous outdoor attractions. Still, the city comes alive during the wintertime, with fun events, seasonal entertainment and holiday cheer. There's always something going on during this time of the year, you just need to know where to look! Check out the dazzling light displays at Harry P. Leu Gardens, or cozy up in a museum café. Or, if you’re travelling with family, head over to Legoland for fantastic seasonal shows, or marvel at Disney’s annual holiday parade. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, or a seasoned veteran to the area, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. For a taste of Orlando during the festive season, check out our list of the best things to do during the month of December! Whatever you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great. Hit the Classics Every theme park worth its name knows how to do Christmas right – and Magic Kingdom is no exception to this rule. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place has long been one of the major attractions of the city – and it’s easy to see why. The park presents over 40 rides and attractions to be enjoyed, including It’s a Small World, Space Mountain, and of course, its iconic Cinderella Castle. But as if this place wasn’t magical enough, you can catch seasonal firework displays, parades, and magical ‘’snowfalls’’, turning the park into a captivating winter wonderland. A total classic for any time of the year, this quintessential Orlando mainstay is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Another one of our favorite theme park experiences for the month of December is available at Epcot. Staying true to the park’s main theme, the International Festival of the Holidays goes all out to provide a global celebration of the holiday season. Enjoy various iterations of Christmas through music, cuisine and special events. Each night all throughout the month, a celebrity will tell the story of Christmas accompanied by an orchestra and choir. Learn more about the time-honored traditions of different countries and soak up the holiday spirit. We especially love this take because it provides something a little different, with no less of the fun. See the Sites For those chilly December evenings, why not head out to the theater? If you’re looking for art and culture in the City Beautiful, you might be pleasantly surprised by what the area has to offer. For years, the Orlando Theatre has served as a regular entertainment house for some of the most talented performers you’ll ever see. Whether you’re looking to catch a Broadway show, see one of your favorite musicians, or laugh harder than ever with some live standup, this place has it all. In the past, the center has played host to the likes of Elton John, Paul McCartney and John Mulaney. Serving up engaging performances all throughout the week, this place would provide the perfect evening out in the city. Though December weather is generally pretty temperate, some days can get a little chilly. If you’re looking for a great colder weather activity, look no further than the Orlando Museum of Art. Founded way back in 1924, this place has long played a fundamental role in the city’s artistic community. In its impressive collection, you’ll find everything from Contemporary and American art to that of the Ancient Americas. We recommend checking the website before going for any upcoming exhibitions. With so much to see and learn, it'd be easy to just get lost here exploring this unique repository. Get Festive December is a fantastic time to visit some of Orlando’s famed theme parks, since the weather will be more bearable and the lines shorter. Great for those travelling with family, we’d consider Legoland way up there with Magic Kingdom as one of the top theme parks in the city. With over 50 rides, shows and attractions to choose from, the possibilities are pretty much endless here. Highlights include The Great Lego Race, The Dragon, and Miniland USA. Come Christmastime, the park transforms into an exciting dreamland, offering experiences worth treasuring forever. Catch seasonal shows, activities, sparkling lights, and more! With a wide variety of things to do stretching all throughout the month, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. Just because the city has cooled down doesn’t mean you have to stay huddled up inside! With its unique tropical climate, Florida is home to many wonderful green spaces just waiting to be discovered. An unmissable stop for all nature lovers, Harry P. Leu Gardens is well-recognized for its diverse collection of exotic plants. Covering over 40 acres, this charming historic park promises meticulously landscaped grounds and lakes, and great walking trails to enjoy. This stunning urban oasis is especially magical in the wintertime, when you can catch the Dazzling Nights display all throughout the month of December. Beautiful, calm and serene, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend some time away from the city. For a truly spectacular winter wonderland experience, check out Night of a Million Lights. Running all throughout the month, this event invites guests to enjoy a beautifully decorated fairytale neighborhood. Eat seasonal snacks as you stroll. Take a tram ride through the village. Enjoy a traditional Christmas market. Buying a ticket to this event provides support for ill children, so be sure to check it out. All-round feel good and super sparkly, this one should rank right at the top of the itinerary! While you might not get blankets of snow and wintry temperatures, no city knows how to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year better than Orlando. From exciting parades to over-the-top light displays, there’s much to do and see here for every type of traveller. Explore the city’s fantastic cultural institutions. Take a holiday tour of Epcot. Or, hang out and enjoy the sights at the Night of a Million Lights. Trust us when we say, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to festive activities and events to choose from. 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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