Things to do in Orlando: 11 ideas for you

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View of Orlando lake with urban skyscrapers and clear blue sky with swans.

There are a myriad of fun things to do in Orlando, Florida. The city is filled with excitement, adventure, and endless possibilities. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, there's never a shortage of things to do in Orlando. With its world-renowned theme parks, fantastic weather, and abundant outdoor activities, this city offers something for everyone. To help you make the most of your time in the city, we've rounded up 11 exciting things to do in Orlando. Here's a list of the top things to do in Orlando that should be on every visitors' bucket list. Hint: skip the long list and add a memorable escape room experience to your to-do list at a discount.

 

 

1. Walt Disney World Resort: enchanting things to do in Orlando for all ages

Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is a world-renowned vacation destination for families from around the world. It offers a wide range of things to do in Orlando. From thrilling theme parks to interactive experiences, there is something for everyone at the resort. Here are just a few of the many things to do in Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort:

 

 

  • Explore the four world-famous theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom. Each park offers its own unique experiences, with rides, shows, and attractions based on classic Disney tales and popular franchises.
  • If you want to cool off on a hot day, take a dip in the resort's water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

    Enjoy the many water slides and attractions available.

  • Alternatively, get an up-close look at the park and its animals at Epcot and the Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

 

These are great things to do in Orlando for those who want a more immersive experience.

 

View of Walt Disney castle at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando with the crowd. Photo by Craig Adderley

 

2. Universal Orlando Resort: fun things to do in Orlando for yourself & your family

 

Universal Orlando Resort is a popular tourist destination offering a wide range of things to do in Orlando. With its two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, and the entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, there is always something to keep visitors entertained. Check out the top 4 things to do in Orlando at Universal Orlando Resort:

 

Aerial view of Universal Orlando Resorts. Photo by Mikhail Nilov

 

  • Explore the two theme parks and their many rides, attractions, and shows based on popular franchises such as Harry Potter, The Simpsons, and Marvel
  • Visit Universal's Volcano Bay, the resort's water park, and enjoy its many water slides and attractions.
  • Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the park, such as the VIP Experience.
  • Enjoy dining and shopping at Universal CityWalk, which features a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as live entertainment.

 

3. American Escape Rooms: for groups looking for entertaining & challenging things to do in Orlando for groups

 

American Escape Rooms is a popular and challenging entertainment option if you’re looking for unique things to do in Orlando. American Escape Rooms offers two sites in Florida, each with its distinct theme. Aside from Orlando, you can also find us in Tallahassee.

 

With various rooms accessible at each site, there's bound to be an escape room that's ideal for you and your friends as you explore the exciting things to do in Orlando. Choose from a variety of themed rooms tailored to your preferences:

 

Mad Professor’s Asylum

 

If you're visiting Florida with a group and you're looking for things to do in Orlando, you can't miss the Mad Professor's Asylum, the newest escape room from American Escape Rooms.

 

Up to ten individuals can participate in it at once. You have one hour to find clues and solve puzzles to get out of the room. You can have fun while challenging your ability to think critically and solve problems.

 

 

Zombie Apocalypse

 

In this real-time escape room, you and your buddies will have to work together to solve puzzles and locate clues to the rooms before the zombies catch you. It's a fun and unusual way to spend an afternoon or evening, and it's appropriate for all ages.

 

It is the ideal escape room to put your zombie apocalypse survival abilities to the test. If you're seeking entertaining things to do in Orlando, American Escape Rooms is a must.

 

Cold War Crisis

 

If you are looking for a challenging experience you'll like the Cold War Crisis Room.

 

You and your team must cooperate to find clues and solve puzzles to get out of the room before the clock runs out. The activity is both a fun and challenging method to put your teamwork abilities to the test.

 

Mind-boggling

 

Mind Boggling poster

 

The "mind-boggling" room at American Escape Rooms will push you and your friends to solve a range of challenging problems to reach the exit. We guarantee that this room will be one of the most grueling experiences of your life.

 

It's one of the state's largest escape rooms, with over 1,000 square feet of space. To escape in under 60 minutes, you'll need to utilize all of your cunning and wit.

 

 

4. Old Town: when you want to find different things to do in Orlando after entertainment

 

Old Town Orlando is a charming and historic area located just outside of downtown Orlando, Florida. This popular tourist destination offers a variety of things to do in Orlando, including shopping, dining, and entertainment:

 

  • Take a stroll down the street and browse the many unique shops, including souvenir shops, clothing boutiques, and specialty stores.
  • Enjoy a meal at one of the many dining options, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines.
  • Attend one of the many events and festivals hosted in the area, including car shows, live music events, and holiday celebrations.
  • Take a ride on one of the classic carriages or go-karts for a fun and nostalgic experience.

 

The Old Town provides plenty of things to do in Orlando, whether you're searching for a fun day out with the family or a romantic evening with your significant other. It is an ideal day trip destination due to its mix of history, shopping, food, and entertainment.

 

5. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: a must-have for nature lovers’ checklist of things to do in Orlando

 

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a popular tourist attraction providing visitors with educational things to do in Orlando with an educational and enjoyable experience. With its many animal exhibits and beautiful gardens, there are plenty of things to do in Orlando at the Central Florida Zoo. Here are a few of the highlights you should put on your list:

 

  • Explore the many animal exhibits, including those featuring primates, big cats, reptiles, and more.
  • Take part in one of the zoo's educational programs, such as the animal encounters or the zoo camp, to learn more about the animals and their habitats.
  • Stroll through the zoo's beautiful botanical gardens and enjoy the many species of plants, flowers, and trees.
  • Attend one of the zoo's special events, such as Zoo Boo or the Zoo Run Run, to experience the zoo in a fun and unique way.
  • Visit the zoo's Conservation Station, which showcases the zoo's efforts to protect and conserve endangered species, and learn about the many ways you can make a difference.

 

Monkey in a zoo, sitting in a rope hammock. Photo by Freepik

 

With its focus on education, conservation, and animal welfare, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a must-visit for anyone looking for things to do in Orlando. Whether you're a nature lover, an animal enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, the Central Florida Zoo has something for you.

 

6. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: for lovers of space science looking for things to do in Orlando

 

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in space exploration and science. Located in Merritt Island, Florida, just a short drive from the city, this complex offers many things to do in Orlando for space and science enthusiasts:

 

  • Take a tour of the Kennedy Space Center and learn about the history of space exploration, including the Apollo missions and the Space Shuttle program.
  • Explore the many interactive exhibits, including the Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Rocket Garden, and the Moon Rock exhibit.
  • Attend one of the many live shows and presentations, such as the Astronaut Encounter or the IMAX space films.

 

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a top choice for things to do in Orlando for anyone interested in science and space. If you’re a longtime fan of space exploration or simply curious about the world beyond our planet, a visit to the Kennedy Space Center is a unique and unforgettable experience.

 

7. Water Parks: water lovers’ top things to do in Orlando

 

Orlando is home to some of the world's best water parks, offering exciting things to do in Orlando for visitors of all ages. Are you looking for thrilling water rides, relaxing lazy rivers, or interactive attractions? Some of the best local water parks include the following:

 

  • Typhoon Lagoon – This Disney-owned park features a large wave pool, a variety of water slides, and a lazy river for floating.
  • Blizzard Beach – Also owned by Disney, this park features a ski-themed water park with several thrilling water slides and a lazy river.
  • Aquatica Orlando – A sea-themed water park with a variety of water slides, wave pools, and many interactive animal habitats.

 

Aerial view of a waterpark’s colorful pools. Photo by Tom Fisk

 

With so many exciting things to do in Orlando at its water parks, it's easy to see why they are a popular destination for visitors from around the world. If you love going to water parks, we’re sure you’ll find what you're looking for at one of Orlando's many water parks.

 

8. LEGOLAND Florida: the best spot for LEGO fans when looking for things to do in Orlando

 

LEGOLAND Florida is a theme park that is dedicated to all things LEGO. LEGOLAND, in Winter Haven, Florida, near Orlando, is a great place for families with kids:

 

  • Explore the park's many LEGO-themed rides and attractions, including the LEGO Ninjago World, the LEGO City Coast Guard, and the LEGO Movie World.
  • Participate in interactive building experiences, such as the LEGO Factory Tour and the LEGO Friends Heartlake City.
  • Visit the MINILAND USA, where you can see iconic landmarks and scenes from around the world, all made entirely from LEGO bricks.

 

With its emphasis on creativity, imagination, and fun, LEGOLAND Florida is a top choice for things to do in Orlando for families and LEGO fans. Whether you're a longtime LEGO enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and entertaining day out, LEGOLAND Florida is sure to delight and inspire.

 

9. SeaWorld Orlando: one of the best things to do in Orlando for marine life lovers

 

SeaWorld Orlando is a popular marine animal theme park that features performances by killer whales, dolphins, and other aquatic animals. From up-close animal encounters to thrilling rides, there are many things to do in Orlando at SeaWorld. Here are a few of them:

 

  • Meet and interact with marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and penguins, at one of the park's many animal encounters.
  • Experience the park's thrilling rides, such as Mako, Kraken, and Manta, which offer a combination of speed, height, and excitement.
  • Watch the park's live shows, including the all-new Orca Encounter and the classic Dolphin Days show, to see the amazing abilities of the park's animals.
  • Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the park, such as the Penguin Encounter or the Sea Lion and Otter Stadium, to learn more about the animals and the work SeaWorld does to care for them.

 

Dolphin jumping out of the water during a Dolphin show. Photo by Magda Ehlers

 

With its combination of animal encounters, thrilling rides, and educational experiences, there are plenty of things to do in Orlando at SeaWorld. So, be sure to add this park to your itinerary for a fun and unforgettable day.

 

10. WonderWorks: for science lovers looking for things to do in Orlando

 

WonderWorks is an interactive science museum located in the heart of Orlando. With its focus on fun, hands-on learning experiences, WonderWorks is a great choice for things to do in Orlando for families and visitors of all ages. Here are just a few of the many exhibits and attractions you'll find at WonderWorks:

 

  • The Ropes Course – Climb, balance, and navigate your way through a multi-level ropes course.
  • The Bubble Lab – Explore the science of bubbles and see how they form and behave.
  • The Light and Sound Zone – Experiment with light and sound in this interactive exhibit.

 

In addition to these hands-on exhibits, WonderWorks also features a variety of educational shows and demonstrations, as well as a souvenir shop filled with unique and educational toys and gifts. WonderWorks is a great choice for things to do in Orlando for families and visitors of all ages with its emphasis on fun and learning.

 

11. Harry P. Leu Gardens: the top attraction on nature lovers’ list of things to do in Orlando

 

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil oasis located in the heart of Orlando. This 50-acre botanical garden offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and is a great choice for things to do in Orlando for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. Here are the top things you should discover in the garden:

 

  • Explore the various gardens, including the Tropical Stream Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Butterfly Garden.
  • Take a guided tour of the grounds, where you'll learn about the plants and trees that make up the garden.
  • Attend one of the garden's many events and programs, such as the Sunday Music in the Garden concert series or the Full Moon Walk.
  • Enjoy a picnic on the grounds, surrounded by the beauty of the gardens.

 

With its tranquil setting, beautiful landscapes, and rich history, Harry P. Leu Gardens is a must-visit destination for things to do in Orlando for nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the city.

 

Conclusion

 

Whatever your interests are, you're likely to find things to do in Orlando that suit you. So pack your suitcases, apply sunscreen, and get ready to enjoy everything this city has to offer. Make sure to have your list of things to do in Orlando for your next journey. We’re sure you’ll enjoy the city with its limitless attractions, magnificent natural beauty, and endless entertainment possibilities.