Choose from 40 Fun Things to Do in Orlando
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 40 listings.
I-Drive 360
I-Drive 360 is a new entertainment complex on one of Orlando's main drags, International Drive, commonly known as I-Drive. Opened in May 2015, I-Drive 360 includes a variety of restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions – including an aquarium, a Madame Tussaud's, and the 400-foot observation wheel called the Orlando Eye. You'll find popular eateries like Shake Shack and Outback as well as hopping nightlife at Cowgirls Rockbar, with the only mechanical bull in the city.
The centerpiece is the massive observation wheel. It has 30 passenger compartments, each one air-conditioned, and each one can carry up to 15 people. Your ticket to the Orlando Eye includes a 4D movie experience and a ride around the wheel.
Practical Info
I-Drive 360 is open daily from 10am-2am, and there's no fee to get into the complex. Hours for specific restaurants and attractions vary. The Orlando Eye is open Sunday-Thursday from 10am-10pm, and Friday-Saturday from 10am-12am. Admission for the wheel is $20 for adults and $15 for children.
Address: 8445 International DR, Orlando, Florida, USA
Hours: Open daily from 10am-2am
From $ 10
Lake Eola Park
Boats glide alongside actual swans on Lake Eola, at the heart of Lake Eola Park. The site isn’t big by many standards – a mile around – but it packs a big punch as an oasis in the middle of bustling, crowded Orlando. Locals and visitors flock here – like the geese they feed out of hand – to take in a little nature. The Orlando skyline rises in the distance, a stunning contrast to the peace and quiet of the park and a beautiful reminder of the nearby city.
There are countless things to do in Lake Eola Park, including a weekly farmers’ market to visit, complete with fresh produce and live entertainment. Children run amok on the Lake Eola playground, and the iconic swan boats are a favorite for all ages. The park also has its own performance space, the Walt Disney Amphitheatre, which hosts events throughout the year. There’s even a restaurant on the premises; the Relax Grill promises to live up to its name.
Practical Info
Lake Eola Park is located in downtown Orlando. There is no entrance fee, while the swan boats cost $15 for a half-hour rental. If you plan to drive to Lake Eola Park, make sure to bring change to pay for the street parking meters.
Address: 195 N Rosalind Ave., Orlando, Florida 32801, USA
Hours: Daily
From $ 69
Florida Mall
Orlando may be best known for the Magic Kingdom, but travelers who want to shop ‘til they drop will find a different kind of excitement at the Florida Mall. Home to more than 250 stores and restaurants, this retail Mecca attracts some 20 million visitors each year.
Travelers will find all the shops they know and love lining the well-lit halls of this popular mall. And top-hits like one of the few M&M’s World shops, an American Girl store and a massive interactive Crayola Experience store make this the perfect place not just for a girlfriends’ getaway, but a day trip away from Disney, too.
Practical Info
Visitors can opt for a shop and stay package with discount hotel rates and easy access to the Florida Mall, or book an Orlando shopping tour and hit all the city’s hot spots. This top destination proves the ideal spot to escape sweltering Florida sun for a bit of retail therapy.
Address: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida 32809, USA
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10am-10pm; Friday 6am-10pm; Saturday 10am-10pm and Sunday 12pm-9pm.
From $ 20
Legoland Florida Resort
Florida is well-known for having some of the best theme parks in the United States, and the 150-acre LEGOLAND Florida is one of them. Located in the city of Winter Haven—45 minutes from Orlando—the park features over 50 rides, shows, attractions, and impressive LEGO® models. Visitors, especially families with children, will find a lot to explore while wandering through the various 'lands' comprising the park: The Beginning, Fun Town, Miniland USA, LEGO Kingdoms, Land of Adventure, LEGO City, LEGO Technic, Imagination Zone, Pirates Cove, Heartlake City, World of Chima™, LEGO Ninjago World, and DUPLO® Valley.
Immerse yourself in the world of LEGO® by heading out on a wild animal safari with elephants, giraffes, and lions made of LEGO; conquering the Dragon Coaster; earning your LEGOLAND driver's license; checking out a full-sized LEGO-constructed Ford Mustang; or watching LEGO pirates put on a live-action water ski show and defeat Captain Brickbeard. The park also features a LEGOLAND Waterpark, complete with wave pools, lazy rivers, and thrill rides that will leave you drenched. Ride tubes 375 feet down crisscrossing water slides on the Twin Chasers, or climb to the water park's tallest point for a 60-foot drop in Splash Out.
Address: 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, USA
From $ 87
Holy Land Experience
A Christian-based theme park in Orlando, Florida, the Holy Land Experience features full-size re-creations of Biblical scenes that bring the Holy Land to life. Here you’ll find a Jerusalem street market, the Great Temple, the House of Judea, the Calvary’s Garden Tomb, and Esther’s Banquet Hall, as well as entertainment and story-telling.
The Basics
Holy Land’s interactive exhibits are designed to take visitors back 2,000 years and thousands of miles away, to the people and places depicted in the Bible. Even the main entrance is designed to appear as the Main Gate and Jaffa Gate to the old city of Jerusalem. The park is an immersive experience that enables visitors to bring their faith and the history depicted in the Bible alive, along with the life and times of Jesus Christ.
Here you can also check out the Scriptorium, a collection of ancient artifacts and Bible-related antiquities. A theater and outdoor stage act as backdrops for live shows, from plays to Broadway-style musicals. A fully operational religious and nonprofit organization, the park offers weekly church services and Bible study groups. Purchasing a ticket ahead of time guarantees your admission to this popular attraction. And to admission you can add on experiences including the Tabernacle Tour, the Tech Tour, and the Wardrobe Tour.
Know Before You Go
- Children between 5 and 14 years old receive discounted admission; children aged four and under are free.
- Several dining options include the Last Snack, the Church of All Nations Bistro, Martha’s Kitchen, and Esther’s Banquet Hall.
- See the park’s website for information on transportation from the Disney World and Universal Studios area and resorts.
How to Get There
The Holy Land Experience is located about 10 miles from downtown Orlando, off of Interstate 4. Parking is free, or you can take the LYNX (Orlando’s public transportation system) Route 24 or Route 40.
When to Get There
The park is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm. It is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Backstage Tours
An alternative to travelers who desire the spiritual experience of traveling to Israel, the Holy Land Experience is dedicated to producing an authentic, immersive experience. Taking one of the backstage tours (an add-on to admission) lets visitors see what goes into creating such a flawless production. The Tabernacle Tour teaches visitors how the Tabernacle was used in Biblical times, the Tech Tour shows how the elaborate performances are put on, and the Wardrobe Tour shows the care that goes into the faithful re-creation of authentic garments.
Address: 4655 Vineland Road, Orlando, Florida, USA
Hours: Tues-Sat from 10am-6pm
Admission: $50 for adults, $35 for children
From $ 50
Aquatica
Aquatica Orlando is a sister park of SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove. It follows a South Pacific theme with Australian and New Zealand mascots such as Roa (kiwi), Wae Wae (a takahē), Wai (dolphin) and more. Aquatica Orlando features thrill rides, family fun adventures and several themed animal areas.
Dolphin Plunge is Aquatica Orlando’s signature thrill ride, in which side-by-side tube slides pass through a pool with a pod of Commerson’s dolphins. Hoo Hoo Run is another popular attraction that features a triple-dip multi-person raft slide, and Ihu’s Breakaway Falls is the tallest, steepest and only multi-drop tower of its kind in Orlando.
Families will find no shortage of attractions to enjoy here, including Roa’s Rapids, a lazy-river-style attraction with geysers, speed zones and center islands. Loggerhead Lane is another lazy-river-style attraction that passes through the Commerson’s dolphin exhibit, while areas designed for kids include Kata’s Kookaburra Cove and Walkabout Waters.
If you want to check out some animal exhibits, you don’t have to be on Dolphin Plunge or Loggerhead Lane to see the Commerson’s Dolphin exhibit. These dolphins are rather distinctive with primarily black heads, flippers and fins, with white dominating other parts of their bodies. They are small and typically found in the shallow coastal waters of the sub-Antarctic. Another animal exhibit at Aquatica Orlando is the African Spurred Tortoises that are often found along the Sahara Desert’s southern edge.
Practical Info
Since Aquatica is a family park, be sure to wear appropriate swim attire. Swimsuits with buckles, rivets or other sharp objects are not allowed on body slides. If you are bringing children in diapers, they must be in waterproof protectors. If you don’t want to worry about carrying cash or credit cards during your day, get a cashless wristband at any ticket booth, Guest Relations or the Information & Reservations Counter.
Address: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando 32821, USA
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 44
Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
Established in June 1990 and located at the Universal Studios in the CityWalk entertainment complex, the Hard Rock Cafe in Orlando, Florida remains a hugely popular entertainment attraction in a city where there’s always something to see and do.
In fact, Orlando’s Hard Rock Cafe is the largest in the world. It features huge, grand pillars and a vast collection of rock memorabilia to rival all other Hard Rock Cafes. The complex boasts a multi-level version of the famous cafe, as well as a Hard Rock Live music venue, which has a 3000-person capacity and hosts all types of concerts and other events.
In the restaurant itself, diners can feast on classic burgers, nachos, wings, ribs, salads, and steaks as they take in the music memorabilia that adorns the walls and rock out to the non-stop Hard Rock beats.
Practical Info
This Hard Rock Cafe is situated at 6050 Universal Boulevard in Orlando, Florida. The restaurant is open daily from 11am until midnight, while the bar is open each night until 1:30am.
Address: 6050 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, Florida, USA
Hours: Open daily from 11am until midnight, bar is open nightly until 1:30am
From $ 32
Key Largo
Key Largo may seem underwhelming at first glance, but “under” is the key word, as the main sights are underwater, past the touristy shops and motels. The 33 mi (53 km) island is the longest in the Florida Keys; it also has the Keys' biggest concentration of dive sites.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must stop. The first underwater park in the U.S., Pennekamp provides some pleasant beaches, decent nature trails, and colorful coral reefs. An aquarium at the visitor center provides a glimpse of what’s under the water, and a glass-bottom boat tour shows the real thing.
If you want to go deeper, take a snorkeling trip or a diving excursion. After a day of activity, stop for seafood in one of the many restaurants on the key.
Practical Information
The easiest way to travel to Key Largo is by car. The major route through the Keys, U.S. Hwy 1 snakes its way down to Key Largo, continuing all the way to Key West.
Address: U.S. 1 at MM 106, Key Largo 33037, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 199
House of Blues Orlando
Come for the barbecue and stay for the live entertainment at House of Blues Orlando. Just far enough away from the main Disney World Resort restaurants and entertainment venues to make a dent in the crowds, House of Blues has long been a favorite of both locals and park visitors. The venue hosts all kinds of performers, from local favorites to world-famous stars. Even when there isn’t a concert, music will be playing and TVs will be on for sports fans.
The dual restaurant and concert venue set-up provides something for everyone. Families love House of Blues for its many kid-friendly meal options, while couples enjoy the sprawling patio, where live music can be heard. Diners rave about the shrimp, grits and barbecue ribs, and night owls particularly like the concerts and the late-night bar menu that goes along with them.
Practical Info
Located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, House of Blues Orlando is part of the Walt Disney World Resort. Some events are only for those 18 or 21 years of age and older, but dining is open to all ages. Tickets for performances range in price.
Address: 1490 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA
Hours: Hours vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 109
Epcot Center
Epcot Center, part of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, is a theme park packed with internationally and futuristic-themed attractions, rides, pavilions, shows, and entertainment. Created from a concept developed by Walt Disney himself, Epcot is dedicated to human achievement, technological innovation, and international cultures.
The Basics
Epcot—an acronym for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow—moves at a slower pace than many other parts of the Magic Kingdom, with no roller coasters screeching overhead, no parades, no water rides, and plenty of greenery. Here you can smell the incense in Morocco, listen to the Beatles in the United Kingdom, eat sushi in Japan, and munch on an authentic pastry in France. Epcot Center is divided into two. The modern Future World, with its can’t-miss iconic geosphere known as Spaceship Earth, explores modern technologies through myriad rides and displays. The World Showcase allows visitors to tour the world in a day by dipping their toes into the cultures of 11 countries, including Mexico, Norway, China, France, Germany, and Italy.
Tours of Epcot from Orlando include those with a private guide, which allow insiders to get expert advice on the best ways to navigate the park, or helicopter tours that offer aerial views of the park and greater Orlando.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Unlike other parts of the Magic Kingdom, most stores and restaurants in Epcot serve alcohol.
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is an award-winning light show that takes place every night at 9pm just before the park’s closing.
- Epcot is connected to the Magic Kingdom by the Disney World monorail system. To make the entire trip, transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center.
- Epcot is accessible to strollers, wheelchairs, and guests with mobility, hearing, and visual disabilities.
How to Get There
Epcot Center is easily accessed via Florida Interstate 4 (I-4). Pay for preferred parking (close to the entrance gate) or ride the tram from your spot to the gate. Orlando International Airport is 22 miles (35 kilometers) away, about a half-hour drive.
When to Get There
Epcot is open every day from 9am to 9pm. The holiday season and spring break bring huge crowds and long lines for rides and attractions. Throughout the year Epcot hosts a variety of festivals, including the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival; the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival; and Holidays Around the World, which showcases each pavilion’s traditional holiday celebrations.
Visiting Epcot with Small Kids
Although there is a distinct lack of animated characters prancing around Epcot, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing for small kids. Upon entry, pick up a guide map and entertainment schedule. Look for Kidcot stops, play and learning stations for the younger set. The Soarin’ ride is a winner, and Mission: SPACE is good for getting the adrenaline pumping after a string of educational exhibits. Additionally, three fountains in the park encourage splashing and playing; these are particularly great for kids too small for traditional water rides in other parks.
Address: 1375 N Buena Vista Drive, Orlando 32830, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 9pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
Clearwater Beach
With expansive white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach is a waterfront Florida community known for its aquatic activities and warm, turquoise waters. Clearwater Beach is an ideal launching pad for kayaking, parasailing, boating, and biking. It’s known as being more low-key than its southern neighbor, the bustling St. Pete Beach, and many consider Clearwater Beach to be among the best beaches in America.
The Basics
There’s an activity for every age and interest at Clearwater Beach, from relaxing on the sand with beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas to jet-skiing, speed boating, and fishing. Families with kids enjoy the gentle surf, prime for swimming and water sports. Visitors often steal away from nearby theme parks to spend time on the water, sometimes on day trips from Orlando and St. Petersburg.
Things to Know Before You Go
- At three miles long, Clearwater Beach is easy to navigate by car, bike, or foot.
- Mandalay Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, is a mile-long stretch of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- To get an overview of the area, jump on the Jolley Trolley (fees apply), which travels around Clearwater Beach and up to Sand Key.
- Be sure to bring sun-protection gear and beachwear. Restroom and shower facilities are offered at most area beaches.
- Beach wheelchairs are available at the Main Beach Lifeguard Station, south of Pier 60.
How to Get There
Clearwater Beach is about 22 miles north of St. Pete Beach and two miles west of downtown Clearwater. The road south is South Gulfview Boulevard, and north is Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach’s main drag. The nearest airports are in Tampa, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, and St. Petersburg-Clearwater, 12 miles (19 kilometers). The beach is about a two-hour drive from Orlando.
When to Get There
Clearwater Beach is warm year-round, with peak temperatures from April to October. Summer temperatures often hit upwards of 90°F (32°C), when the humid, subtropical climate often also sees short thunderstorms. The mild winters attract the largest crowds.
More Than Just a Beach
Visitors to Clearwater Beach can do more than just lounge by the famously clear water. Plan ahead and book a deep-sea fishing tour or a dolphin boat tour, or check out the “Sea Screamer,” a speedboat that zooms along the coast. Don’t miss the 1,080-foot (329-meter) Pier 60, with its bait shop, playground, and evening sunset festival, or beautiful Sand Key Park, which sees smaller crowds.
Address: Clearwater Beach 33760, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 65
Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center has been hurtling humans and shuttles into space since 1968 and is still a primary site for NASA launches. Parts of the sprawling campus are open to the public with daily tours offering opportunities to interact with real astronauts, test your skills with a simulated space flight, and see artifacts from the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs.
The Basics
The campus is made up of several “mission zones,” all accessible with admission. See the Rocket Garden, filled with historic engine replicas and full-size Titan rockets; the Space Shuttle Atlantis; and the Early Space Exploration Hall, where you’ll find hands-on exhibits highlighting the pioneers of spaceflight and the global race to the moon. On-site bus tours depart every 15 minutes and narrate a two-hour route to several launch sites, including those used by the techy space explorers at SpaceX, and the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where you can navigate astronaut artifacts and walk beneath a 363-foot (110-meter) rocket from the Saturn V mission. Visit on a day trip from Orlando, or opt for an Ultimate Space Pass that includes a tour of NASA’s launch headquarters, lunch with an astronaut, two IMAX movies, the Shuttle Launch Experience, and free time to experience the center’s exhibits and galleries.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There’s lots to see and do at Kennedy Space Center, so plan on spending a full day here.
- The space center one of the most popular family attractions in Florida.
- The bus tour is included in general admission but stops running 2.5 hours before closing time.
- Choose a helicopter tour over the Kennedy Space Center for a bird’s-eye view of the sprawling facility.
How to Get to the Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center visitor complex is adjacent to the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Titusville, 45 minutes from Orlando by car, on the eastern side of the Intracoastal Waterway. There is no public transit to the center, but several tours include transport to the Space Center from Orlando. There’s plenty of on-site parking, though only multi-day tickets include the cost of parking.
When to Get There
Because there’s so much to do, it’s best to arrive as close to the daily 9am opening time as possible. Closing times vary seasonally between 6pm and 8pm. The center is seldom crowded (except on launch days), but you can avoid large field trip groups by visiting on a weekend.
How to See a Rocket Launch From the Kennedy Space Center
To count down and feel the rumble of lift-off just a few miles away from a real launching rocket, you’ll have to time your visit just right, as only a handful take place each year. The visitor center offers the closest viewing stations for shuttles and rockets blasting off from the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral, and has four designated spots for lawn chairs (some of the spaces require tickets, which typically go on sale two weeks prior to launch).
Address: SR 405 between Range Road & East Avenue SW, Titusville, Florida, USA
Hours: Daily 9am–5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 55
Fun Spot America
Fun Spot America is a theme park with locations in Orlando and nearby Kissimmee. It is the only family-owned theme park in the area and admission is free to the park - you just pay to ride and play!
The parks are fully equipped with activities to keep the fun going all day. Each location boasts unique, patented multilevel go-kart tracks, an arcade where visitors can play a variety of games and collect points to redeem for prizes, and several roller coasters. The Kissimmee park is home to the tallest SkyCoaster in the world, which stands at 300 ft (91 m), while the Orlando park is home to Orlando's only wooden roller coaster, White Lightening. There are also thrill rides, bumper cars, bumper boats, and load of other rides that are appropriate for kids and fun for the whole family.
The parks are fully equipped with activities to keep the fun going all day. Each location boasts unique, patented multilevel go-kart tracks, an arcade where visitors can play a variety of games and collect points to redeem for prizes, and several roller coasters. The Kissimmee park is home to the tallest SkyCoaster in the world, which stands at 300 ft (91 m), while the Orlando park is home to Orlando's only wooden roller coaster, White Lightening. There are also thrill rides, bumper cars, bumper boats, and load of other rides that are appropriate for kids and fun for the whole family.
Both Fun Spot America parks are only a few miles from Disney World, Universal Studios and several other popular Orlando area attractions. Parking is free, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the park. There is also a diner and a sweets shop for when you get hungry.
Practical Info
Fun Spot America parks are located at:
5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, FL 32819
2850 Florida Plaza Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Admission is free to the park - you just pay to ride and play.
Purchase a day pass for adults and kids to enjoy the rides. Children between 24 inches and 53 inches tall will receive a $10 in park credit to be used on food and beverages, arcade games and the gift shop.
5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, FL 32819
2850 Florida Plaza Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Admission is free to the park - you just pay to ride and play.
Purchase a day pass for adults and kids to enjoy the rides. Children between 24 inches and 53 inches tall will receive a $10 in park credit to be used on food and beverages, arcade games and the gift shop.
Address: Orlando and Kissimmee, Florida, USA
Hours: Seasonal 10am-12am; Off-Season 2pm-12am
Admission: Kids under 24in = Free; Kids 24-53in = $31.99; Adults = $42.49
From $ 48
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Set on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is best known for its population of West Indian manatees. The park is primarily a rehabilitation center for the creatures, which swim in the freshwater spring while they are treated. On land, native Florida wildlife thrives in the dense surrounding forest.
The Basics
Homosassa Springs houses treasures both on land and below the water’s surface. Head to the Fish Bowl underwater observatory to see the manatees and 34 varieties of fish at close range, or board a pontoon boat to cruise the Homosassa River, keeping an eye out for gators, turtles, and otters, plus dozens of bird species. A Wildlife Walk winds through the forest, offering a chance to spot elusive wolves, bobcats, and panthers. Most tours of the park leave from Orlando and include opportunities to swim and snorkel with the docile manatees in nearby Crystal River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, with ramps, elevators, and accessible boats and trams.
- Picnic areas are located along the Garden of the Springs and near the Fish Bowl.
- The Wildside Café, located at the park’s west entrance, offers concessions and coffee.
- While pets are not allowed in the park, a free kennel at the entrance offers a place to house your pet while you explore.
How to Get There
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is located off Highway 19 near Homosassa Springs, roughly 70 minutes from Tampa and 90 minutes from Orlando by road. Parking is available on site.
When to Get There
Plan to spend about four hours at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park to hit all the walking trails, enjoy the educational programs, and take a pontoon boat tour. Winter is an especially good time to visit because the manatee population typically peaks during this season.
West Indian Manatees
Also known as the sea cow, West Indian manatees inhabit Florida’s freshwater springs. Slow-moving bottom feeders, these docile animals are at high risk for being injured by boat propellers. Since a dip in population in the 1990s, the manatees have been protected under the Endangered Species Act, and their population has rebounded to around 6,000 individuals in Florida.
Address: 4150 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, Florida 34448, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 139
Daytona International Speedway
Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines. The Daytona International Speedway, a 500-acre interactive motorsports complex, is home to the world-famous NASCAR Cup and its "Great American Race," otherwise known as the Daytona 500.
In addition, many other types of racing events fill the grandstands here, including go-cart, monster truck and motorcycle races. The arena also draws travelers for instructional driving lessons, driving experiences and ride-along programs when no races are in session. Daily complex tours are also available—climb atop the podium in Gatorade Victory Lane, see champion cars (scratches, dents and all) and check out the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.
Practical Info
Daytona International Speedway is four miles (six km) west of Daytona Beach. The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America and souvenir shop can be found in the tours and tickets building.
Address: 1801 West International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 149
Econlockhatchee River
Known as the Econ River for short, Econlockhatchee flows from Lake Conlin through three counties in central Florida. Its name originated from “river of many mounds,” named for the Indian mounds located along its waterfront.
The area has a unique, densely forested landscape. Water levels vary based on rainfall, but there’s usually plenty of wildlife to see. The upper section of the river is swampland, and resident alligator sightings tend to be frequent. Canoe and kayak padding is a common way to enjoy the natural beauty of the river.
Other wildlife that calls the river home includes bald eagles, sandhill cranes, ospreys, and other wildfowl, as well as deer, turkey, and river otters. The river was deemed an Outstanding Florida Waterway and is one of few unspoiled rivers in Central Florida. Flowing through moss-covered cypress and palm forests, it comprises some of the state’s most beautiful natural scenery.
Practical Info
The river, located just east of Orlando, flows for 54 miles. Divided into three sections (upper, middle, and lower,) Various trails, waterways, and campsites can be found throughout. Boats can be launched from the Hidden River Park off of Highway 50.
Address: Econlockhatchee River, Florida, USA, USA
From $ 86
Gatorland
With goofy, gaping alligator jaws welcoming guests at the entrance, Gatorland is a reptilian wonderland that has been showcasing Florida's wildlife since 1949. The 110-acre (45-hectare) park is home to thousands of alligators and crocodiles, snakes, toads, turtles, and swamp birds, some of which are rescued former pets. Guests will find winding boardwalks hovering over man-made bayous, which provide safe views of the resident reptiles, plus an open-air aviary and a petting zoo of domesticated farm animals.
The Basics
While many travelers book basic admission tickets to Orlando’s reptilian wonderland, it’s also possible to take a combo tour that includes time at the park and an airboat ride through the Central Florida Everglades. Gatorland guests also have numerous options for enhancing their visit beyond general admission. The Screamin’ Gator Zipline takes guests 1,200 feet (366 meters) above the park and its Alligator Breeding Marsh, home to 130 resident alligators. To experience the Florida swamp by night, opt for an after-dark tour where you can gaze into glowing gator eyes or even feed the reptiles. Those with a deeper interest in these giant reptiles can go behind the scenes to learn about their behaviors with the add-on Trainer for a Day package. Gatorland also offers experiences that allow visitors to touch and wrestle gators for an additional fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gatorland is a must-see for families with kids and animal lovers.
- The fee-based Gatorland Express Train shuttles visitors around the park for easy access.
- Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent inside the park.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Advance reservations are required for the Trainer for a Day program.
How to Get There
Gatorland is located on Highway 441 in South Orlando, about 20 minutes from the Orlando International Airport by road. Parking is free.
When to Get There
The park is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Since much of the site is outdoors and uncovered (and shows are canceled in the event of heavy rain), it’s a good idea to plan your visit for a day with a sunny forecast. Unlike other Orlando theme parks, crowds aren’t as much of a problem at Gatorland, but if you choose to visit during summer, expect high temperatures.
Entertainment at Gatorland
Like any good theme park, Gatorland puts on a few live shows featuring some of their famous residents. During the Gator Jumparoo, guests can observe alligators perform an impressive behavior: jumping four to five feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) out of the water to snatch food. The Gator Wrestlin’ Show demonstrates how handlers are able to safely wrangle an 8-foot-long (2.5-meter-long) alligator, limbs intact.
Address: 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida 32837, USA
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom takes the best parts of a theme park and a zoo, blending them seamlessly into one encompassing experience. Visitors can go on safari through the Sahara (and see real animals in naturalistic habitats), explore the world of Pandora from Avatar, ride the rapids of an Asian river, or encounter a yeti on Mount Everest.
The Basics
The newest of Walt Disney World’s four parks is a favorite with families. Admission options vary, from a single-day ticket that gets you into Animal Kingdom to single or multi-day Park Hopper passes that allow you to freely move between any of Disney’s four parks (including the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios). Travelers based in places like St. Augustine, Tampa, or St. Petersburg may even visit the park on a very long day trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a must-visit for animal lovers and families traveling with kids.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a lot of walking.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Book your tickets early to save time waiting in the long ticket office queues.
- Much of the park is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available to rent.
How to Get There
Disney offers free bus transportation to Animal Kingdom from Disney hotels and other Disney parks. The only other way to get there is to drive yourself or book round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
Plan to arrive a few minutes before the park opens, and head straight for the animal exhibits before it gets too hot. If possible, plan your visit during months when school is in session to avoid the high season crowds.
Shows at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
While this park may lack the fireworks and parades Disney is known for, there’s no shortage of entertainment options. The Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo—The Musical, both Broadway-style musicals, are popular with visitors of all ages, and once the sun goes down, the River of Lights illuminates Discovery River in a spectacle of light and sound.
Address: 2901 Oceola Pkwy, Orlando 34787, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
International Drive
Stretching for 17 miles (27 kilometers) between the Orlando Premium Outlets to Walt Disney World, Orlando’s International Drive (I-Drive for short) serves as the city’s tourist hub. Six of Orlando’s top theme parks—SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, Wet ’n’ Wild, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Aquatica—are located along this stretch.
The Basics
I-Drive is where you’ll find one the heaviest concentrations of restaurants, hotels, shopping, and entertainment options in Orlando. In addition to the nearby theme parks, this resort area is also home to popular attractions, such as Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and the ICON Orlando observation wheel—travelers can visit all three with a combo ticket.
Things to Know Before You Go
- International Drive is perfect for exploring when you need a day away from the theme parks.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection for walking between shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- ATMs are located all along I-Drive in hotels, grocery stores, and shopping areas.
How to Get There
I-Drive parallels I-4 to its east. If you’re sightseeing around I-Drive, you can use the I-RIDE Trolley, which runs two routes every 20 or 30 minutes.
When to Get There
International Drive is accessible all the time, but individual businesses have their own operating hours. Show up first thing in the morning for sparser crowds at I-Drive’s popular attractions, or in the evening hours to grab dinner or enjoy the district’s nightlife and entertainment offerings.
Dinner Shows on International Drive
If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to spend an evening in Orlando, head to one of the many dinner shows situated along International Drive. This stretch of road is home to the Orlando Improv Comedy Club, Pirates Dinner Adventure, Titanic Dinner Event, and the Vegas-style Rock Dinner Show at Orlando Forum.
Address: International Drive, Orlando 32819, USA
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 52
Disney Springs
Disney Springs (formerly known as Downtown Disney) is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment center in Florida’s Lake Buena Vista, near Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks. When you need a break from amusement park rides, head to Disney Springs to pick up souvenirs, dine, or see a show.
The Basics
Disney Springs' Town Center is built around the natural springs that first attracted settlers to the area. From there, walkways lead to The Landing, the West Side, and the Marketplace. Each offers themed architecture, a playful atmosphere, and spots offering live music and waterfront views. Specialty shops and restaurants range from casual to upscale, while entertainment options include Cirque du Soleil performances and The Boathouse, which offers vintage amphicar rides and Italian water taxi rides on Lake Buena Vista. There is also a bowling alley, movie theater, carousel, and multiple concert venues.
Tours from downtown Orlando often include a stop at Disney Springs as well as other area highlights such as Walt Disney World, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, and SeaWorld Orlando. For a bird’s eye view of Disney Springs, opt for a helicopter tour of the Orlando area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Walk-up reservations are available for Italian water taxi tours and amphicar tours.
- Designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities are available in both the Orange and Lime Garages, as well as in the Strawberry, Watermelon, and Grapefruit surface parking lots.
- Parking is free; preferred parking and valet parking are available for a fee.
How to Get There
Disney Springs is accessible by car as well as bus and water transportation. One-way bus service from the four Disney theme parks operates daily, and the promenade is accessible by complimentary water transportation from select Disney resorts.
When to Get There
Disney Springs is open daily from 10am to 12am. While there are plenty of indoor activities at Disney Springs, it’s essentially an outdoor mall so check the weather forecast before heading over.
Tips for Beating the Lines at Walt Disney World
Lines are an inevitable part of the Disney experience, especially at popular rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean, but with a little planning, you can avoid the worst of them. Get to the park before it opens, and immediately head toward the big ticket rides near the back of the park, scheduling your three Fast Passes as you go. Lines tend to be shorter during parades and fireworks shows, and the slower-paced rides are often quieter in the evening after families with young kids have headed home for the day.
Address: 1486 Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, Florida 32830, USA
From $ 37