Things To Do in Orlando: The Ultimate Guide

Orlando is one of those cities that offers something for everyone—even those who want to enjoy sunny Florida without stepping inside a rollercoaster queue. Whether you’re planning a full vacation, squeezing in a weekend adventure, or looking for a couple fun things to do in Orlando, we’ve rounded up the city’s most iconic attractions and unexpected gems.

From things to do in Orlando for adults to things to do in Orlando with kids, from outdoor escapes to vibrant nightlife, Orlando surprises at every turn. And if you’re searching for things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, don't worry—there are plenty of options to keep your days full and your budget in check.

Key takeaways

Orlando delivers far more than world-famous rides (though it has those too). It’s a destination where outdoor adventures, art and culture, local markets, nightlife, and seasonal events fill every day with new possibilities. The city offers options for adults, families, and budget-minded travelers (including plenty of free things to do in Orlando).

For theme-park fans

• Walt Disney World Resort: Four theme parks, two water parks, character experiences, classic attractions like Space Mountain, global pavilions at EPCOT, and wildlife encounters at Animal Kingdom.
• Universal Orlando Resort: Hit rides, cinematic attractions at Universal Studios, and the tropical Volcano Bay water park.
• Universal Epic Universe: A new theme park introducing next-generation lands, thrill rides, and immersive storytelling.

For outdoor adventurers

• Lake Eola Park: A central lake loop, swans, downtown skyline views, and weekend markets—one of the best free things to do in Orlando.
• Harry P. Leu Gardens: 50 acres of camellias, towering oaks, and walking trails perfect for a quiet morning escape.
• Mead Botanical Garden: Boardwalks, bird-watching, and shaded nature paths.
• Kelly Park Rock Springs: A natural lazy river with crystal-clear spring water.
• Boggy Creek Airboat Rides: High-speed marsh tours with chances to spot gators, birds, and native Florida wildlife.
• Orlando Watersports Complex: Cable park wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and beginner-friendly water sessions.

For arts and culture lovers

• Orlando Museum of Art: Contemporary collections and rotating exhibits.
• Mennello Museum of American Art: Folk art, sculpture gardens, and lakeside views.
• Orlando Science Center: Hands-on exhibits ideal for kids and adults alike.
• Orlando Shakespeare Theater & Orlando Ballet: Live performances, classic shows, and seasonal productions.
• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Historic rockets, astronaut encounters, and space exploration exhibits.
• Winter Park History Museum & Zora Neale Hurston Museum: Local history, storytelling, and cultural heritage.

For travelers interested in food and shopping

• Disney Springs: Waterfront dining, live entertainment, specialty shops, and no admission fee.
• East End Market: Local vendors, fresh food stalls, artisan bakeries, and small-batch products.
• Plant Street Market: Craft beer, weekend crowds, and food hall favorites.
• The Mall at Millenia & The Florida Mall: Luxury brands, major retailers, and traveler-friendly dining options.

For families

• Crayola Experience: Color-driven creativity stations for younger children.
• WonderWorks Orlando: Interactive science exhibits, ropes courses, and laser tag inside an upside-down building.
• Fun Spot America: Classic amusement rides and go-karts at budget-friendly prices.
• Topgolf Orlando: Multi-level hitting bays, games, and food for all ages.

For nightlife seekers

• International Drive: Restaurants, bars, attractions, and late-night venues in one walkable corridor.
• Wall Street Plaza: Downtown block parties, themed nights, and DJs.
• Mango’s Tropical Cafe: High-energy dinner show with Latin music and dancers.
• Tin Roof Orlando: Live bands and casual nightlife.

For travelers looking for festivals and seasonal events

• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Holiday parades, fireworks, and festive treats.
• EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival: Global dishes, wine tastings, and concerts.
• Halloween horror nights: Movie-quality haunted houses, scare zones, and nighttime entertainment.

Outdoor adventures

Parks and gardens

Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park is a centrally located green space known for its lakefront paths, swan boats, and views of the downtown Orlando skyline. It’s popular for walking and photography, with paved loops around the lake. The park hosts community events, local markets, and seasonal festivals, making it an engaging stop for visitors looking for cultural experiences outside theme parks. 

• Area: ~5 minutes from downtown Orlando
• Ideal for: Adults, kids, couples
• Best during: Early mornings, sunsets
• Extras: Swan-shaped paddle boats, local events

Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a botanical garden featuring cultivated landscapes, historic structures, and themed plant collections spread across a large walkable property. Visitors can explore rose gardens, palm groves, and seasonal floral displays that change throughout the year. The gardens offer educational programming and guided tours.

• Area: ~10–15 minutes from Orlando city center
• Ideal for: Adults, seniors, plant lovers
• Best during: Spring bloom season
• Extras: Historic house museum

Mead Botanical Garden

Mead Botanical Garden is a quieter, more natural environment featuring trails, wetlands, and shaded areas ideal for birdwatching and casual outdoor strolls. Unlike larger manicured gardens, this space maintains a more rustic feel, allowing visitors to experience native Florida ecosystems.The garden often hosts community events and educational activities that highlight conservation.

• Area: ~20 minutes from Orlando city center
• Ideal for: Adults, families, nature lovers
• Best during: Spring and fall
• Extras: Boardwalks, butterfly garden

Water activities

Boggy Creek Airboat Rides

Boggy Creek Airboat Rides offers guided airboat tours through Central Florida’s wetlands, allowing visitors to explore natural habitats where alligators, birds, and other wildlife may be seen. It’s a good activity for families and adults looking for a unique Florida experience.

• Area: ~35–45 minutes from Orlando city center
• Average ticket prices: ~$33–$70 depending on tour type
• Ideal for: Families, teens, adults
• Best during: Mornings, cooler months
• Extras: Sunset tours, photo opportunities

Kelly Park Rock Springs

Kelly Park Rock Springs is a natural spring environment known for its crystal-clear water and tubing opportunities along a short, scenic run. The consistently cool water temperature offers relief from Florida’s heat, making it a favorite among locals. Visitors can swim, tube, or picnic. Since capacity is limited, arriving early is recommended. The spring’s natural beauty makes it ideal for a full or half-day outdoor outing.

• Area: ~35–45 minutes from Orlando city center
• Average ticket prices: ~$3–$5 park entry
• Ideal for: Families, adults
• Best during: Summer for tubing, weekdays
• Extras: Tube rentals nearby

Orlando Watersports Complex

Orlando Watersports Complex is a cable park offering wakeboarding, water skiing, and other cable-driven activities on designated lakes. It caters to both beginners and experienced riders through coaching programs and multiple course difficulty levels. The facility provides rental equipment and lessons, making it accessible to newcomers.

• Area: ~20–25 minutes from Orlando city center
• Average ticket prices: ~$40–$70 depending on session length
• Ideal for: Teens, adults
• Best during: Warm months
• Extras: Pro lessons, gear rental

Arts and culture

Museums

Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art presents rotating and permanent exhibitions highlighting American art, contemporary works, and global pieces. Its galleries provide a quiet, reflective atmosphere ideal for visitors who enjoy taking time with visual art. Educational programs, workshops, and special events occur throughout the year, giving guests multiple ways to engage with the museum.

• Area: ~10 minutes from downtown Orlando
• Average ticket prices: ~$20–$25
• Ideal for: Adults, teens, art lovers
• Best during: Weekday afternoons
• Extras: Rotating exhibitions and seasonal events

Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is an interactive institution offering hands-on exhibits related to physics, biology, engineering, and space exploration. It’s designed to engage visitors of all ages, with dedicated areas for young children, live demonstrations, and engaging science labs. Because many exhibits are interactive, families often spend several hours exploring the space. 

• Area: ~10 minutes from Orlando city center
• Average ticket prices: ~$24–$30
• Ideal for: Toddlers, kids, families
• Best during: Mornings, rainy days
• Extras: Live science shows, observatory

Mennello Museum of American Art

The Mennello Museum of American Art puts American artists at the center of contemporary and folk art exhibitions, including a notable permanent collection. Its intimate setting allows visitors to appreciate artwork in a peaceful environment without the overwhelming scale of larger institutions. The museum’s lakeside location provides beautiful outdoor surroundings as well, making it a pleasant stop for art lovers beyond the main tourist district.

• Area: ~10–15 minutes from downtown
• Average ticket prices: ~$5–$10
• Ideal for: Adults, art enthusiasts
• Best during: Anytime, quiet weekday visits
• Extras: Sculpture garden

Performing arts

The Orlando Shakespeare Theater

The Orlando Shakespeare Theater presents classic plays, modern works, and family-friendly productions. Known for its strong acting company and educational programs, the theater provides an intimate environment for experiencing live storytelling. It’s a good option for travelers who enjoy performing arts and want an evening activity away from the tourist-heavy areas. 

• Area: ~10 minutes from Orlando city center
• Average ticket prices: ~$20–$50
• Ideal for: Adults, teens, theater fans
• Best during: Evenings
• Extras: Educational workshops

Orlando Ballet

Orlando Ballet presents a diverse lineup of productions ranging from classic ballets to modern dance performances. The company offers both large-scale seasonal shows and smaller contemporary pieces throughout the year. Its productions feature professional dancers, elaborate sets, and artistic choreography, making it a cultural highlight for visitors. 

• Area: ~10–15 minutes from downtown
• Average ticket prices: ~$30–$90
• Ideal for: Adults, culture lovers
• Best during: Holidays, spring season
• Extras: Seasonal classics like “The Nutcracker”

Historic sites

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex showcases NASA’s space exploration history through exhibits, launch-related displays, and interactive educational experiences. Visitors can learn about past missions, view real spacecraft, and explore galleries dedicated to scientific innovation. Because it’s located on the Space Coast, it requires a longer drive. The complex appeals to visitors interested in science, aviation, and American history.

• Area: ~60–75 minutes from Orlando
• Average ticket prices: ~$75–$80
• Ideal for: Kids, teens, adults
• Best during: Weekdays, cooler months
• Extras: Rocket exhibits, occasional launch viewing

Winter Park History Museum

The Winter Park History Museum offers exhibits highlighting the cultural and historical development of the Winter Park area, including early settlement stories and community traditions. The museum is compact and easy to explore, making it an ideal addition to a day spent walking through Winter Park’s scenic streets. 

• Area: ~20–25 minutes from Orlando
• Average ticket prices: Free admission
• Ideal for: Adults, seniors
• Best during: Anytime
• Extras: Local cultural exhibits

Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts

The Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts celebrates the work and legacy of author Zora Neale Hurston while showcasing rotating exhibitions from African and African American artists. Located in the historic community of Eatonville, it offers cultural depth and educational insights into influential literary and artistic contributions.

• Area: ~15 minutes from Orlando city center
• Average ticket prices: ~$5 suggested donation
• Ideal for: Adults, culture lovers
• Best during: Weekday afternoons
• Extras: Community-based exhibitions

Shopping and dining

Shopping destinations and experiences

The Mall at Millenia

Known for its upscale atmosphere, polished design, and luxury brand selection, The Mall at Millenia is Orlando’s go-to destination for high-end shopping. Travelers come here for an elevated retail experience that includes designer storefronts, stylish specialty boutiques, and refined dining options. Its clean, bright layout makes it easy to navigate, and many visitors treat it as a half-day activity.

The Florida Mall

The Florida Mall is Central Florida’s largest shopping center, offering a wide selection of mainstream brands, department stores, and family-friendly dining. Its broad appeal makes it a favorite for travelers seeking a comfortable place to browse, grab lunch, or take kids to interactive shops without breaking the bank. 

East End Market

East End Market blends local flavor with community-driven energy. Part market, part food hall, it highlights small businesses, artisan vendors, independent eateries, and craft coffee shops. Travelers come here for a taste of Orlando’s creative food scene, from fresh-baked goods to farm-to-table dishes. 

Unique experiences

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a large waterfront district featuring themed restaurants, boutique shops, live entertainment, and stroll-friendly paths with no admission required. It’s one of the best things to do in Orlando for adults and families who want dining and entertainment in one place without entering a theme park. The variety makes it adaptable for any travel style.

Boxi Park Lake Nona

Boxi Park is a modern outdoor venue built from repurposed shipping containers, offering food stalls, beverage stands, a stage for live music, and open seating. It feels laid-back and community-oriented—perfect for travelers who want something casual and social. Kids can play in open areas, while adults can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Plant Street Market

Plant Street Market is a lively indoor-outdoor space combining craft breweries, food stalls, and artisan shops. The older-town setting adds charm and makes the experience feel different from Orlando’s tourist-heavy districts.

Family-friendly activities

Interactive experiences

Crayola Experience

Crayola Experience is a colorful indoor attraction designed around creativity and hands-on activities. Children can explore craft stations, create their own crayons, engage with interactive displays, and enjoy hours of safe, indoor entertainment. It’s especially valuable on hot or rainy days when parents need a reliable indoor option.

WonderWorks Orlando

Housed inside its iconic upside-down building on International Drive, WonderWorks Orlando focuses on interactive science exhibits, physical challenges, and playful attractions like rope courses and laser tag. It’s designed to spark curiosity while giving families an entertaining, hands-on environment that suits multiple ages and energy levels.

Entertainment options

Fun Spot America

Fun Spot America is a smaller, relaxed amusement park known for go-karts, coasters, arcade games, and family-friendly attractions. It’s a great option for travelers who want rides without committing to the scale or cost of major theme parks. Its manageable layout and come-and-go style make it ideal for short visits.

Topgolf Orlando

Topgolf Orlando offers a fun, tech-enhanced golfing experience perfect for families, couples, and groups. With climate-controlled hitting bays, food and drinks, and accessible gameplay for all skill levels, it’s popular with travelers looking for a social activity that doesn't require any prior golf experience.

Nightlife and events

International Drive

International Drive (I-Drive) is one of Orlando’s busiest nighttime areas, featuring restaurants, bars, attractions, and shows all within a walkable stretch. Visitors appreciate its convenience—everything is clustered, and the atmosphere stays active late into the night. It’s a great match for travelers who want a social, high-energy night out without heading downtown.

Wall Street Plaza

Wall Street Plaza is downtown Orlando’s central nightlife hub, known for its block parties, themed nights, casual bars, and DJ-driven energy. The pedestrian-only setup makes it easy to bar-hop, and the vibe is social and friendly. It’s one of the best places for travelers seeking an approachable, lively experience.

Mango's Tropical Cafe Orlando

Mango’s Tropical Cafe Orlando offers a vibrant dinner show featuring dancers, live performers, music, and an energetic Latin-inspired atmosphere. It blends dining and entertainment into one experience, making it appealing for travelers who enjoy big, energetic nights out.

Tin Roof Orlando

Tin Roof Orlando is a casual, music-centered bar known for hosting live bands across genres. It attracts locals and visitors alike with its easygoing atmosphere, approachable menu, and rotating lineup of performers. Travelers who love live music will find this a great stop for a laid-back night out.

Theme parks in Orlando

Many travelers go to Orlando for the theme parks alone. This isn’t meant to be an exhaustive guide, but rather a helpful overview of some of your options so you can get a sense of what each park offers and decide what’s the best choice for your trip.

Walt Disney World Resort

Magic Kingdom Park

Magic Kingdom Park is one of the resort’s core destinations, known for classic attractions, parades, and fireworks that appeal to visitors of all ages. The park often hosts seasonal entertainment, as well. Because it’s one of the busiest parks, planning ahead for peak times can help reduce wait times and maximize enjoyment.

• Area: ~30–40 minutes from Orlando city center
• Ideal for: Toddlers, kids, teens, adults
• Extras: Nighttime fireworks, themed dining, seasonal parades

EPCOT

EPCOT features a blend of global cultural exhibits, innovative attractions, and seasonal festivals. The park is divided into themed areas that allow visitors to sample cuisine from around the world and explore educational exhibits woven into modern attractions. EPCOT tends to attract adults and older children due to its culinary offerings and slower pace. 

• Area: ~30–40 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Art, food, and flower festivals; large nighttime show

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park offers guests a hybrid experience centered around wildlife, adventure, and conservation. The park’s layout includes lush landscapes, animal exhibits, and family-friendly rides, making it appealing to visitors who enjoy outdoor exploration. Because much of the park is outdoors, weather plays a role in planning the day. 

• Area: ~30–40 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Animal viewing trails, immersive lands, live performances

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios focuses on attractions inspired by film, television, and themed action environments, featuring high-energy rides and immersive lands that appeal to thrill-seekers and teens. The star here is the entertainment industry: shows, stunt experiences, and blockbuster attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land. Wait times can vary widely throughout the day. 

• Area: ~30–40 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Multiple themed lands, stunt-style shows

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park features water attractions set within a themed tropical environment. It’s a popular warm-weather destination, especially during Florida’s hotter months. Visitors often enjoy the combination of high-energy slides and relaxing pool areas.

• Area: ~30–35 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Large wave pool, themed surroundings

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park features a unique wintry theme, offering water attractions styled as slopes and snow-covered structures for a playful contrast with Florida’s warm climate. It includes high-speed slides, family raft rides, and designated areas for young children. The park provides a lighter, more relaxed atmosphere than major theme parks.

• Area: ~30–35 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Ski-themed visuals, group raft experiences

Note: This attraction is temporarily closed. Check the official website for reopening updates.

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida features attractions inspired by film and television, with a strong focus on themed sets and immersive experiences. The park offers a mix of thrill rides and family-friendly options, making it accessible to a wide demographic. Lines for major rides can be long on peak days, so arriving early is helpful.

• Area: ~20–25 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Cinematic nighttime show

Universal Islands of Adventure

Universal Islands of Adventure is known for its high-energy coasters, themed islands, and immersive attractions. Some of the resort’s most popular coasters are located here. Visitors often allocate a full day to explore the park fully.

• Area: ~20–25 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Major thrill rides and themed islands

Universal Volcano Bay

Universal Volcano Bay is a water theme park centered around a large volcano structure, offering water slides, a wave pool, and a range of relaxing and high-energy attractions. Its virtual queuing system helps manage wait times, allowing visitors to explore the park more freely.

• Area: ~20–25 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Virtual queue system, multi-story slides

Universal Epic Universe

Universal Epic Universe is the newest major theme park addition to the resort, featuring multiple themed areas built with advanced attraction technology and immersive environments. The park includes rides designed for various age groups, though many are geared toward thrill-seekers.

• Area: ~20–30 minutes from Orlando city center
• Extras: Immersive rides, detailed multi-land layout

Seasonal activities and events

Holidays and special events

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom

This annual holiday event is known for its cheerful atmosphere, festive entertainment, themed parades, and winter touches like “snowfall” on Main Street. Guests enjoy seasonal treats, holiday decor, and special nighttime shows that create a warm, celebratory mood across the park.

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival is one of Orlando’s most beloved annual traditions, drawing travelers who appreciate global dishes, wine tastings, culinary demonstrations, and live music. The festival transforms the park’s walkways into a large-scale dining experience.

Universal's Halloween Horror Nights

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights are widely recognized as a top Halloween event in the country, known for cinematic haunted houses, atmospheric scare zones, and nighttime entertainment. This event is especially popular with thrill-seekers who want a more intense Halloween experience.

Save on flights to Orlando with Going

Orlando is one of the most popular (and often one of the priciest) destinations in the United States, especially during school breaks, long weekends, and festival seasons. Finding a genuinely low fare for flights can feel impossible, but Going can make a difference. 

Going’s team of flight experts constantly monitors routes to Orlando, catching price drops, mistake fares, and rare discount windows that most travelers never see on their own. Whether you’re planning a big family trip to the parks, a couples’ getaway, a food-or-shopping weekend, or a quick outdoor escape, those savings can make a huge impact on your total budget.