UPDATED: January 11, 2024
Central Florida is an amazing place to visit, and most of anyone who visits makes a trip to one of our theme parks. With Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando, and SeaWorld, it’s no wonder we have so many tourists in Florida! However, I’ve stumbled upon people saying that there is not much to do in the Orlando area aside from the theme parks, and as someone who lives in Orlando, I couldn’t disagree more.
Not only do we have theme parks, but we have a plethora of attractions, hidden gems, museums, and more. Orlando is filled with entertainment perfect for the whole family or those seeking some time away from the theme parks.
Whether you are in Orlando on a solo trip, couple trip, friend trip, or family trip, there is something for everyone. So if you are planning a trip to Orlando, here are 30 things to do in Orlando other than theme parks.
Things To Do in Orlando Other Than Theme Parks
While going to the theme parks is quite fun, it’s not all you can do in Orlando. While we have plenty to do in the area, there are also day trips you can take from Orlando to get the most out of your trip. So whether you stay in the area or take a day trip, check out the list below for things to do in Orlando other than theme parks.
Attractions
1. Madame Tussauds
If you’ve ever wanted to take photos with celebrities, here is the next best thing. Madame Tussauds allows visitors to take photos with wax figures that look identical to the celebrities you admire. The resemblance is quite uncanny, but seeing them in person is also neat.
2. Sea Life
Central Florida’s very own aquarium! With plenty of interactive activities. This is one aquarium you don’t want to miss and it’s also located near Madam Tussauds.
3. The Wheel at Icon Park
If you’re looking for the best view of Orlando, The wheel is the best spot for that. I’ve been on this about three times once during the day and twice at night. Both times are great for viewing this beautiful city.
4. Fort Christmas Historical Park
If you find yourself wanting to go see a fort, while surrounded by nature and history, then this a great place to visit!
5. Old Town
This cute place is full of shops, restaurants and live music. During the weekend, you can also find car shows! And if you have kids there are a few arcades and rides at Old Town.
6. Wonder Works
This attraction has 100+ hands-on science exhibits, and it’s such a fun time for adults and kids.
7. Kennedy Space Center
If you’re looking for a place where you could spend 4-5 hours, check out the Kennedy Space Center! You can watch shows, entertain yourself with hands-on experiences and even take a tour guided by an astronaut.
Activities
8. Orlando Balloon Rides
if you’re looking to go on a hot air balloon, I recommend Orlando Balloon Rides. This is another great way to see the beautiful city.
9. Safari Wilderness Ranch
This is one of my favorite activities! Where you get to take a Safari around the ranch and feed the animals. You can also visit the lemurs and other animals as well.
10. Showcase of Citrus Monster Truck Safari
If you’re looking for a unique experience, hop on a monster truck and explore the area. You’ll see a few animals around as well.
11. Capone’s Dinner and Show
Dinner theater with a 30’s gangland theme plus a delicious buffet.
12. IFLY Orlando
Not a fan of the outdoors, but want an adventure? Go skydiving at this indoor facility.
13. Epic Axe Throwing
Get a group of friends and try your hand at Axe Throwing!
14. Medieval Times & Tournament
Watch knights joust as you enjoy some delicious medieval dinner.
15. Kayak at Blue Springs State Park
Orlando is full of State Parks, but this park is one of the best for Kayaking and seeing alligators.
Gardens
16. Bok Tower Gardens
Beautiful Gardens known for their “singing” tower, which plays the carillon bells several times a day.
17. Harry P. Leu Gardens
A wonderful 50-acre botanical garden. They sometimes have themes such as their fairy doors!
18. Mead Botanical Gardens
A tranquil space with an array of flowering gardens and wildlife habitats. This place is absolutely free and a must-visit if you’re in the area.
19. Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens
A historic site with a museum and sculptures by Albin Polasek. This has nice gardens with statues.
Museums
20. Orlando Science Center
Science center with hands-on exhibits and planetarium shows.
21. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Beautiful Museum with the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
22. Orlando Museum of Art
Art Museum with incredible art. They also host events – performances, yoga and much more.
23. Titanic: The Artifacts Exhibition
Learn about the Titanic in this wonderful exhibition. There are hands-on experiences, which makes it even more fun.
24. Orange County Regional History Center
A 5-story museum focused on the history of Central Florida. Has some great exhibits to check out.
25. Presidents Hall of Fame
Museum dedicated to the U.S. Presidents and their families.
26. Chocolate Museum & Cafe
Learn everything there is to know about chocolate and take their tour to see some impressive sculptures made out of chocolate.
Tours
27. Hop on! Central Florida Brew Tours
Hop on! And take a tour of different breweries, all while enjoying a variety of beer.
28. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
Take a free tour and enjoy some free wine tasting at this beautiful Vineyard.
29. Orlando City Tours
Take a tour of Orlando and see what else there is to do aside from the Theme Parks.
30. Apopka Wildlife Drive
Take a self tour in your vehicle and watch all the wildlife in its environment. Expect to spend about an hour to three hours depending on how long you take to drive-thru.
There are plenty of places to visit and things to do in Orlando other than theme parks. So if you’re planning to be in Orlando for a few days, hopefully you’ll be able to check out the list above.
For more ideas, check out my other post 110 things to do in Florida.
I have to admit that a day at a theme park when you’re on holiday sounds so boring to me! It’s great to see so many alternatives – i love the sound of Old Town 🙂 x
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Awesome! Yes I do know a few who think the same, which is why I wanted to create a post about other things people can do in Central Florida aside from Disney Old Town is great, lots to do, see and try.
Nice photos. I have never been to Orlando before. I would definitely like to see the Gardens and the Safari if I visit one day.
Yes you definitely should! The Safari is a wonderful adventure!!
This so so helpful! I’m going to Orlando in February!
Awesome!!! I hope you enjoy your time in this wonderful city
This is a great post! I do tend to only think about theme parks when I think of Orlando. Your post makes me want to take a visit down there soon!
Awesome!! And thanks There’s definitely so much more to Orlando than theme parks
An indispensable post for whoever plans a visit to Orlando! The links to each attraction make it easy to get additional information. Good job putting all these tips together!
Thank you!
Thanks a ton for this article! I am planning to visit Florida probably after 2 months but was very confused about the places to visit. I have 2 kids so I have to keep them in mind before deciding the place. This article make my mind clear so it will be a happy journey for us.
Awesome!! Glad you found this post helpful! I’ll have more coming up on Orlando, so stay tuned!
This is such a helpful guide! I can’t wait to checkout some of these great places in Orlando.