Is your family looking for adventure and excitement outside the theme parks? This guide of More Things To Do In Orlando is full of ideas to show you all the fun you can experience beyond the major attractions!
If you’re making the trip to Central Florida, you’re heading to one of the world’s favorite vacation spots! With big name theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World all nearby, some of Florida’s most unique attractions are often overshadowed. This list is full of suggestions for tourists and locals alike so be sure to add these special ideas to your next vacation! Whether it’s for a day trip, weekend getaway, or all out vacation, you’ll love discovering new More Things To Do In Orlando!
Showcase of Citrus
This family owned estate is home to over 70 varities of citrus and offers eco-tours along with u-pick experiences so you can get up close with Florida’s #1 fruit crop! Visit the old time general store, sample fresh squeezed juice, ride in the world’s largest 4×4 and more!
iFly Indoor Skydiving
If you’re not quite ready to jump from a perfectly good airplane but still want to experience the thrill of skydiving, this is for you! The 100hp vertical wind tower recreates the free fall feeling and almost all ages, from 3 to 103 can participate! Great idea for a unique rainy day adventure!
Chain of Lakes Kayak Tour
This tour will take you through some of the prettiest lakes in Florida, garden lined canals, and offer exquisite views of Florida wildlife in their natural setting. The Adventures In Florida company offers a wide variety of paddle trips through Central Florida so be sure to explore their site and find a trip that works for your family, there are several options including a full moon paddle, a bioluminescense paddle and much more!
Leu Gardens
This 50 acre oasis near downtown Orlando is a botanical dream and home to some of the most beautiful, lush foliage you’ll ever see. A photographer’s dream, this thriving garden and historic home offer a variety of activities for all ages. Be sure to check the events schedule for the live music, date night movies, family storytimes, and more!
Scenic Boat Tour
Come see gorgeous Winter Park on a boat tour that’ll thrill all ages. Enjoy the beauty of the Orlando area while floating on a pristine lake, less than 10 minutes from downtown. This off the beaten path excursion is the perfect way to see the natural Florida and enjoy a cool breeze with family and friends.
Blue Man Group
Enjoy a fun filled evening with a show that is a theater performance, rock concert, and dance party all in one. This experience is fun for all ages and this popular phenomena has a unique presentation in Orlando and it makes for lasting memories!
Menello Museum of Art
The gorgeous sculpture garden, old Florida landscape and walking paths are a beautiful respite just minutes from downtown Orlando. The museum is home to self taught artist Earl Cunningham’s collection and many other treasures. Be sure to check the events calendar for free family activities that occur on a regular basis. There is a beautiful picnic are on the grounds that locals love!
AirHeads Trampoline Park
Perfect for rainy days or a respite from the heat, this indoor trampoline park is sure to tire everyone out and give a great cardio workout for any age group! Be sure to check the Orlando location tab for info. specific to that venue, offers, and special events.
Cirque Du Soleil- La Nouba
World class entertainment that will spark imaginations young & old is a treat you don’t want to miss and is exclusive to the Orlando venue! Give yourself an evening of wonder as you relax and enjoy this amazing show! Performances times and special offers are available via the website.
SAK Comedy Lab
Get ready to laugh at the renowned comedy shows and even take an improv class for FREE! There are family friendly improv shows available and this club boasts an impressive alumni list, including 3 time Emmy winner Wayne Brady! A side splitting night of fun awaits!
Lake Eola Park
This beautiful, pristine park in downtown Orlando is home to the swan paddle boats that families will enjoy riding around the lake and taking in the scenic views. Spend some time feeding the swans and other birds or grab a bite to eat at the Relax Grill.
WonderWorks
Edu-tainment at it’s finest, experience a theme park for your mind as you explore and enjoy hands on fun for all ages! Boasting over 100 opportunities for hands on exploration, visit the indoor ropes course, laser tag arena or 4-D simulator ride.
Orlando Museum of Art
Besides a world class art collection, the museum has extensive programming for families and children. Located in Loch Haven Park, near the Menello Museum of Art. A great place to spend an afternoon and have a fun cultural experience.
Don’t miss our original post, Things To Do In Orlando Beyond The Theme Parks for even more ideas on all the entertainment around Central Florida. Plus, don’t forget to check out our fabulous list of 10 Free Things To Do At Downtown Disney . Downtown Disney was recently renamed Disney Springs, don’t let the names confuse you.
To keep up with all the Amazing things to do in Florida, visit our Florida Family Travel page; from alligators to shark tooth hunting, seeing live mermaids to cruising with dolphins, we’ve gotcha covered!
Donna says
You put together a good list. I live in Orlando and love the science center. You should add the Orlando Science Center to the list. There is so much to do there.
It is great for all ages, but they have lots of stuff for little kids.
Nicole says
Cool! Our family is planning a trip to Orlando next year. We better check these out.
Victoria @ Creative Home Keeper says
Love this list! I’ll have to keep some of these in mind for the future!
Cathy M says
These all sound awesome–I think Adam and I would really enjoy visiting WonderWorks!
Stephanie says
I haven’t been to Orlando in almost 30 years. Its nice to know we can stay outside the theme parks and still have tons of stuff to do.
Justine says
Have never visited FL., but this would be a great resource.
Melissa | Persnickety Plates says
I’ve only done the theme parks so this is great!
christine says
We are actually in the midst of planning a trip to Orlando. We always try to leave at least 2 days free of theme parks to go out and do other things. Thanks for the resource.
Marye says
These are great! I’ve done a couple of them. The boat tour is amazing. My fav.