Orlando, Florida, is renowned for its vibrant theme parks, but there is a plethora of other exciting and diverse activities to enjoy beyond the traditional park experience. Here’s a guide to help you explore the many fun things to do in Orlando.
Theme Parks and Thrilling Rides
While theme parks are a staple of Orlando, they offer more than just the usual attractions.
Fun Spot America: Located in Orlando and Kissimmee, Fun Spot America features unique rides such as the Liberty Swing, a 90-foot tall swing ride, and the White Lightning, Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster. Other highlights include the Freedom Flyer, a family-friendly steel suspended inverted coaster, and the Mine Blower, which drops 80 feet straight into an inversion[1].
SeaWorld Orlando: This park is home to several thrilling rides, including Mako, a hyper coaster known for high speeds and deep dives, and Kraken, a monster coaster with a steep drop. Other attractions include Manta, a flying roller coaster, and Ice Breaker, featuring four airtime-filled launches and a 93-foot tall spike with a 100-degree angle[2].
Outdoor Adventures
Orlando offers a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to different interests and ages.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Experience the natural beauty of Orlando through guided kayak tours at places like Rock Springs Run, where you can see playful otters and native bird species. Alternatively, paddleboard in paradise on spring-fed waters or enjoy night glow paddle tours and floating yoga adventures on Lake Ivanhoe[3].
Hiking and Nature Preserves: Explore various trails and nature preserves such as the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, the Florida National Scenic Trail, and the Cady Way Trail. Harry P. Leu Gardens is another must-visit, featuring a butterfly garden and three miles of paved scenic sidewalks[3].
Wildlife and Birdwatching: Visit the Gatorland Bird Rookery or the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail to spot over 360 species of birds. The Brevard Zoo, located just an hour east of Orlando, offers a unique kayaking tour around animal exhibits[3].
Unique Entertainment Destinations
Orlando is home to several unique entertainment spots that offer something for everyone.
Andretti Indoor Karting & Games: This indoor karting track is one of the fastest in Central Florida and features additional activities like ziplining, laser tag, bowling, and arcade games[5].
Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park: Located in Kissimmee, this park offers elevated outdoor obstacle courses with challenges including zip lines, Tarzan ropes, and suspended bridges. It features 97 unique challenges and a giant 425-foot zip line[5].
AirHeads Trampoline Arena: A great spot for kids, this trampoline arena includes 107 trampolines, trampoline basketball, and air dodgeball[5].
Family-Friendly Attractions
Orlando has plenty of family-friendly activities that are both fun and educational.
Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando: This area allows families to walk down Sesame Street and enjoy rides like Elmo’s Choo Choo Train, Abby’s Flower Tower, and Cookie Monster’s Cookie Drop. There are also interactive play areas like Rosita’s Harmony Hills and Rubber Duckie Water Works[2].
Congo River Golf: This award-winning miniature golf experience features tropical rainforests, tranquil waterfalls, and mysterious caves. You can even feed live alligators at the parks[5].
Hollywood Drive-In Golf at Universal’s CityWalk: This miniature golf course has vintage sci-fi and horror movie themes, making it a fun and quirky experience for families[5].
Indoor Activities
For days when you prefer to stay indoors, Orlando has several engaging options.
Orlando Science Center: This interactive museum features hands-on exhibits where you can explore the solar system, dig up dinosaur fossils, and learn about animals in their natural habitats. It’s perfect for all ages[4].
Universal CityWalk: Even if you’re not visiting the theme parks, Universal CityWalk offers a variety of restaurants, shopping, and live entertainment, making it a great spot to spend an evening[4].
Water Activities
Orlando provides numerous opportunities for water-based fun.
Extreme Jet Ski of Orlando: Hire a jet ski and take an exciting ride across the lake for an adrenaline-packed adventure[5].
Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort: This tropical water park features pools, thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and relaxation zones, making it an ideal spot for a splash-filled day[4].
Infinity Falls at SeaWorld Orlando: Experience the exhilaration of thrilling rapids as you drop into churning whitewater on this rafting adventure[2].
Most Important Facts
Theme Parks: Fun Spot America, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Orlando Resort offer a range of thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions.
Outdoor Adventures: Kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and wildlife/birdwatching are popular outdoor activities in Orlando.
Unique Entertainment: Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, and AirHeads Trampoline Arena provide unique entertainment experiences.
Family-Friendly Attractions: Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando, Congo River Golf, and Hollywood Drive-In Golf are great for families.
Indoor Activities: The Orlando Science Center and Universal CityWalk offer engaging indoor experiences.
Water Activities: Extreme Jet Ski of Orlando, Volcano Bay, and Infinity Falls provide various water-based adventures.
Nature Preserves: Harry P. Leu Gardens, Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, and the Florida National Scenic Trail are must-visit nature spots.
Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly activities, Orlando has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled vacation.
