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Located in central Florida, Orlando is the perfect destination for people who want to have fun and enjoy an amazing Florida vacation.
Home to dozens of entertainment parks and more, this is truly a place where you will never get bored. But that’s not all! There are also many other fun things to do in Orlando, beyond the theme parks.
Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple or with your kids, you’ll find many fun activities in Orlando that you can do.
In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the most unique and fun things to do in Orlando, Florida.
Fun Things to do in Orlando for Adults
Let’s start this articles with fun activities in Orlando for adults. You will find below a selection of awesome things to do in the city and around.
Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando
While most visitors choose to skip the city of Orlando altogether to head straight to the theme parks, Downtown Orlando actually has a lot to offer.
There are many things to do in Orlando besides theme parks and exploring Downtown is one of them!
If you love discovering haunted places while traveling, this awesome ghost tour of Downtown Orlando will be the perfect activity for you!
You will meet your guide at Church Street Station. He will then take you around the historic center and tell you many spooky stories!
This is a great opportunity to discover Orlando in a unique way and the perfect Halloween activity!
You will even get to try professional ghost hunting equipment! How cool is that?
HOW TO BOOK: Tickets can easily be booked online here.
Visiting Madame Tussauds
Looking for a fun thing to do in Orlando on a rainy day? Then visiting Madame Tussauds Orlando will be the perfect activity.
Madame Tussauds is a famous wax museum. You can find Madame Tussauds museums everywhere in the world including Sydney and London but the one in Orlando is particularly fun!
From Music Icons to sports stars and actors, you will discover over 50 wax models. That’s a lot of selfie opportunities here!
As a matter of fact, if you love taking photos, you will be in for a treat here. The decor is particularly photo-friendly so you can get some great and unique pictures.
Want to know which stars you’ll get to see? Here are some examples: Ariana Grande, Kim Kardashian, Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Scarlett Johansson, Angelina Jolie…
HOW TO BOOK: Make sure to book your ticket online. You can do so on Madame Tussauds’ official website or on Viator.
The Escape Game Orlando
Looking for a fun indoor activity in Orlando FL? This will be perfect for you!
Escape games got incredibly popular this past few years and that for a reason: it’s so much fun!
If you want to spend a fun afternoon or evening with your friends, opt for this 60-minute Escape Room activity.
Located on International Drive, the Escape Game Orlando gives you the choice between 6 themes including Mars, Special Ops and Gold Rush.
Not only will you be sure to have a good time but it’s an excellent way to bond with your friend or family.
It’s also one of the best fun things to do in Orlando for teens!
HOW TO BOOK: You can easily book here. Add the date of your choice and you will be given the choice between all the various rooms and the times available.
Night Glow Paddle
Florida is a paradise for water sports. Whether you love snorkeling, kayaking or paddling, you will be in for a treat in the Sunshine State.
READ MORE: 10 Best Places for Bioluminescent Kayaking in Florida
Orlando is no exception! As a matter of fact, it’s the perfect place if you want to opt for a unique and fun paddling experience.
You can try glow paddling!
Basically, it’s the same thing than normal paddling but you will do it at night and your paddle will be equipped with an underwater lighting system.
You can choose the color or opt for switching colors. Either way, it looks beautiful and it’s definitely a great fun thing to do in Orlando at night.
HOW TO BOOK: You can easily book online here.
Scavenger Hunts in Orlando
Scavenger Hunts are one of the best things you can when you visit a city.
Whether you live in Orlando or are a visitor, there are many scavenger hunts that you can do.
They are great activities as you can book them whenever you want and you only need a phone to play.
Not only is solving the clues particularly fun but it’s also a great way to learn more about Orlando and its history.
Here are some great scavenger hunts in Orlando you should consider:
- Scavenger Hunt of Lake Eola’s Art Scene
- Zombie apocalypse Scavenger Hunt in Orlando
- Winter Park Scavenger Hunt
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
If you are looking for weird things to do in Orlando, this one is for you!
Initially founded in 1918 by Robert Ripley, Ripley’s believe it or not gives you the possibility to discover an incredible collection of bizarre artifacts, photographs and objects.
You will find objects that have been collected over 100 years ago.
Fun fact: Robert Ripley was one of the first to broadcast underground in this show Believe It or Not!
It is a truly unique thing to do in Orlando and you can be sure that you won’t be bored.
This activity is suitable for adults but also for kids.
TICKETS: You can buy tickets for Ripley’s Believe it or not! on the official website directly.
Going to Lake Eola Park
This park is located right in the middle of Downtown Orlando. It is a beautiful and unique park! It is the perfect place to escape the city!
Lake Eola park features the famous Walt Disney Amphitheater and boasts some of the most beautiful views of the city.
Numerous community events and live performances take place here so it’s always worth checking out what is on.
Lake Eola Park also features a playground and a Chinese pagoda, which is an essential part of Chinese culture’s architectural style.
The lake itself is a beautiful sight to see especially at night. There is a fountain light show on and you can see all these stunning fountains changing colors. It’s very pretty!
Lake Eola is also one of the best photo spots in Orlando. If you love taking beautiful pictures, it will be great place to do so!
Joining a food tour in Winter Park
Food tours are such a fun way to explore a city. Whether you are a local or a first time visitor, that’s something you can be sure to enjoy!
This food tour takes place in the neighborhood of Winter Park. You will meet your guide on W Lyman Ave and then stroll down Park Avenue to find the best foodie spots!
You will stop in several locations (loved by locals!) and get to taste their food. You will also get a drink at each stop.
Food tours are great if you like the idea of hitting two birds with one stone.
On one hand, you get to discover more about the city. On the other one, you get to do so while eating and drinking.
It’s also a great way to discover delicious restaurants and cute bars.
HOW TO BOOK: Tickets can be booked online here.
Indoor Skydiving
If you are a bit of a thrill-seeker, this will be a super fun thing to do in Orlando!
Located on International Drive, iFly is an indoor skydiving center where you can experience the thrill of a free-fall without actually having to jump out of a plane.
You will be placed in a wind tunnel that generates so much wind it will make you fly and give you the impression you are falling.
You don’t need any experience to do this as you will go through a training session with an instructor.
It is such a fun activity and you can be sure you’ll enjoy it.
HOW TO BOOK: Tickets are available here.
Visiting the Titanic Artifact Exhibition
Though this one is admittedly not the most fun activity in this least, it’s still a super cool thing to do in Orlando and deserves to be mentioned.
The Titanic is one of the most famous boats in the world and while its history is mainly linked to Belfast, Southampton or even New York, you’d be happy to know that you can also discover more about it right here, in Orlando.
Hundreds of objects were recovered from the wreck site of the Titanic and most of them can now be seen at the exhibition in Orlando.
You will find 17 galleries with re-creations of the Titanic rooms and staircases.
You will also get to see many actors dresses in costumes and playing out scenes.
It’s a very immersive experience that will make you feel like you’re traveling on the Titanic.
HOW TO BOOK: You can easily get your tickets online here.
Andretti Indoor Karting and Games
Located on Universal Blvd, Andretti Indoor Karting and Games is the perfect place to go to if you are looking for some fun indoor activities in Orlando.
You can go kart racing with your friends but also do one of the numerous games available such as laser tag, bowling, VR experience and plenty more.
You will also find a bar and restaurant there so you can easily spend the entire day just having fun!
HOW TO BOOK: You can get tickets here.
Fun Things to do in Orlando for couples
Looking for some fun activities for couples? These are for you!
Riding the Wheel
Located in ICON Park, the Wheel is one of the most famous landmarks in Orlando.
It’s known for boasting beautiful views of Cape Canaveral and being beautifully lit up in the evening.
Booking tickets to ride the wheel is a great thing to do if you are looking for a romantic, yet fun, activity in Orlando.
You will be in a capsule and go all the way around!
You can do this during the day or in the evening. It is a completely different experience at night so you need to make sure you’re choosing the most suitable time.
During the day, you will get to see stunning views over the East Coast of Florida. At night, you won’t get to see as far but you will see the city lights which is particularly romantic too.
HOW TO BOOK: It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance. You can do so here.
Fun Things to do in Orlando for kids
Now is time to discover some fun activities in Orlando for kids. In this section, you will find a selection of fun things to do with your kids.
Some of these activities are also suitable for adults only but they are particularly appreciated by children.
Crayola Experience
This is, without the shadow of a doubt, one of the most fun things to do with kids in Orlando.
As you may know, Crayola is a brand of crayons. The brand has a mini amusement park entirely dedicated to the colorful crayons in the Florida Mall, in Orlando.
It’s a great place to visit if you want to have fun with your kids and go on a colorful adventure! They will find activity studios, adventure labs, playgrounds and plenty more!
They can also discover how crayons are made at the Crayon Factory show.
HOW TO BOOK: Tickets can be bought online here.
Going to Old Town
Located in Kissimmee, about 30 minutes away from downtown Orlando, Old Town is a recreation of a classic Florida town.
It’s the perfect place to visit for people who want to get a feel of what an Old Florida town looks like.
You will find everything you need here including restaurants, shopping complex and rides. It has been one of the locals’ favourite family days out near Orlando for over 30 years!
PRO TIP: If you can, try to visit on the weekend because you will get to see muscle and classic cars driving around. It’s quite a cool thing to see!
TICKETS: Admission tickets for Kissimmee Old Town are available here.
Chocolate Kingdom
Located between Downtown Orlando and Lake Buena Vista, the Chocolate Factory is a great place to visit with kids if you are looking for an activity that is both educational and fun.
You can go on a your with a chocolate guide around the factory. Along the way, you will discover exactly how chocolate goes from the cacao beans to an actual chocolate bar.
If you want to, you can also create a customized chocolate bar which is quite cool.
TICKETS: Tickets for Chocolate Kingdom tour are available here.
Wonderworks Orlando
This is another fun thing to do in Orlando for kids. Wonderworks is an amusement park that is entirely dedicated to “edu-tertainment”, meaning that is both educative and fun.
Inside, you’ find various zones where you and your children can experience different sensations such as the extreme weather zone , space discovery zone or the physical challenge zone.
Beyond the exhibits, there are also many activities that are available including laser tag, 4D simulator ride and an indoor ropes course.
All in all, it’s an excellent day that you can be sure to have at Wonderworks Orlando.
It’s also important to note that it’s great value for money and will be the ideal choice for families looking for fun things to do in orlando other than Disney.
TICKETS: Make sure to book online. You can buy your tickets here.
Lost Caverns Adventure Golf
Looking for fun things to do on iDrive Orlando? We are here to help!
Lost Caverns is a super cool adventure mini golf where can find a jungle themed golf course and alligators. It’s a great place to go to if you want to enjoy some fun family time.
It’s also pretty affordable, especially compared to the theme parks.
TICKETS: You can buy your tickets online here.
Orlando Science Center
ADDRESS: 77 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803, United States
The Orlando Science Center is perfect for visitors who are interested in science.
Even though that’s a science museum, there is nothing boring about it!
Unlike most museums where you can only find displays, this one has a bit of a different approach. It’s all about learning with experiences.
You will find many activities and interactive experiences in here. Perfect to learn while having fun!
However, even if you are not particularly interested in science, you should still visit this museum, as it centres around learning that is experience-based for both the sciences as well as technology.
Its purpose is to provide the general public with a basic knowledge of science. If you ever been to the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester, England, that’s a bit like that but not just focused on technology.
Here are some of the best exhibitions in the Orlando Science Center:
- the DinoDigs, features replicas of fossils of dinosaurs
- Kinetic Zone, all about electricity
HOW TO BOOK: You can book tickets on their website directly.
Trampoline Park
The Trampoline Park is a great place to check out if you are looking for fun things to do for kids in Kissimmee.
This 37,000 square feet facility is full of trampolines, ziplines and rope courses. Basically, everything a kid needs to have fun!
Though it is particularly liked by children, you can also participate as an adult. It’s entirely up to you!
TICKETS: You can easily book your tickets here.
Best theme parks in Orlando
All theme parks in Orlando are suitable for both adults and kids.
Of course, some of them are better suited for adults as there are a lot of roller coasters and kids aren’t always tall enough for those, but as a general thing, theme parks are equally enjoyed by adults, couples and families.
Here are some of the best theme parks you can visit if you want to enjoy a fun day near Orlando.
Disney World
Orlando is particularly famous for being home to Disney World, the happiest place in the world!
Located in Lake Buena Vista, about 30 min away from Orlando Downtown, Disney World is formed of 4 attraction parks and 2 water parks.
The attraction parks are from far the most popular. They are:
- Magic Kingdom: rides, princess castle and fireworks
- Hollywood studios: rides and recent movies references, generally prefered by adults
- Animal Kingdom: Everything animal related in Disney Movies. There is even a safari!
- Epcot: drink and eat your way through the world! Each country is represented!
And the two water parks are:
- Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
Interesting fact: Magic Kingdom was actually one of the first theme parks built in Orlando. The arrival of Magic Kingdom in Florida has had so much impact on the local economy as it’s one of the main reasons why Orlando became the theme park capital of the world.
If you are looking for fun things to do in Orlando with kids, Magic Kingdom should be on top of your list!
It is the best park to find all the Disney princesses but Animal Kingdom is also a great option.
Adults tend to prefer Hollywood Studios and Epcot but again, it all depends on the things you like. All Disney Parks are suitable for adults.
TICKETS: There are several ticket options. You can book your tickets directly on Disney World’s website or through a tour operator.
If you are planning on staying in one of the Disney resorts, you may want to consider taking a package.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios are another incredibly popular theme park in Orlando. It’s much more recent than Disney World as it opened in 1990 which is almost 20 years after Magic Kingdom.
It is a duo-functional theme park which means that it also functions as a production studio.
It has been ranked as the ninth most visited theme park in the entire world and is perfect for adults looking for fun days out in Orlando.
The park itself is particularly beautiful. You will find a large lagoon and eight themed areas which roller coasters and rides.
Universal Studios Orlando is also known for its seasonal events. The park organises fantastic events such Halloween Horror Nights, Grad Bash and Gradventure, Macy’s Holiday Parade, and more.
You will get to see very famous characters including Betty Boop, Scooby-Doo, and even Shaggy.
There are plenty of things to do at Universal Studios with kids but it’s also fair to say that it is one of the best things to do in Orlando for adults. Either way, it will be good fun!
TICKETS: There are several ticket options. Make sure to book your tickets online and in advance.
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
If you are a Potterhead then visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-do while in Florida.
It’s located in Universal Orlando which means that technically, it could have been mentioned just below. However, it’s such an important part of the park that it deserved its own paragraph!
You will be able to walk through the Harry Potter universe and discover the Hogwarts Castle, Kingscross Station and even take the Hogwarts Express between the two parks.
Good to know: The Wizarding World is split across the two Universal parks, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. For this reason, you’ll need to make sure that your tickets include access to both parks.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is the perfect ride to discover the entire Wizarding World but you will also fine another one in Diagon Alley, the Flight of the Hippogriff.
Finally, you will enjoy walking around Hogsmeade and discover the shops such as Dervish and Banges, Ollivanders, the Three Broomsticks, and even Zonko’s Joke Shop.
PRO TIP: Make sure to get a Butterbeer as it’s one of the few places in the world where you can have a true, original, butter beer!
TICKETS: You will need to buy a ticket with access to both parks to go to the Wizarding World. Prices are available here.
Universal’s Volcano Bay
Looking for a fun activity in Orlando on a hot day? Then going to Volcano Bay will be the perfect thing to do!
This water park features a very unique tropical theme. It was built on an artificial volcano known as the Krakatau.
This is quite unique in Florida. The Sunshine State is known for being as flat as it can be so seeing a Volcano (even if it’s not a real one) is quite cool.
Volcano Bay is split in several areas: Krakatau, Wave Village, River Village and Rainforest Village.
You will find dozens of water attractions and rides perfect for adults as well as kids.
The most popular rides in Volcano Bay are:
- Krakatau Aqua Coaster
- Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slide
- Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides
- Honu ika Moana
TICKETS: Make sure to buy your tickets in advance. You can book them here.
Kennedy Space Center
Located on Meritt Island, 50 minutes drive from Downtown Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center is a must-do for anyone who loves space.
As you may know, Florida is famous in the entire world for being one of NASA rocket launch spots.
Have you ever wondered where the NASA rockets were launched for and why Florida is such an important place when it comes to space exploration? The Kennedy Space Center will answer all these questions!
It’s also a great place to learn more about the race to the Moon. You will find a life-size version of the Saturn V moon rocket.
There are also various experiences and activities revolving around Apollo and other space shuttles.
It is truly captivating and such a fun thing to do near Orlando.
TICKETS: Tickets for Kennedy Space Center are available here.
Fun Spot America Orlando
While Disney and Universal are famous for their connection with movies, they aren’t always the best places if you are a thrill-seeker.
Instead, opt for Fun Spot America.
Here, you will find loads of roller coasters and thrilling rides such as the Sky Hawkm, Mine Blower, Hurricane or Skycoaster.
There are also many options for kids so you can go there as a family day out, it’s no problem!
It’s also a great option if you are looking for a cheaper theme park in Orlando.
TICKETS: You can easily buy your ticket online here.
Gatorland
Florida is known for its alligators. While most of them are located in the beautiful Everglades, you can also get to see some near Orlando, in Gatorland.
You will literally find of alligators including rare breeds such as the leucistic alligators.
Little fun fact about Gatorland: parts of the movie Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom was filmed here.
This theme park is also a wildlife preserve which is a great thing. Unlike a lot of places, animals here are rescued and would be otherwise killed for their meat.
It is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the alligators and get to experience the thrilling ziplines. One of them, the Screamin’ Gator Zipline flies over alligators and crocodiles!
TICKETS: Tickets for Gatorland are available here.
You see! There are so many attractions and fun activities in Orlando! From museums to incredible theme parks, Orlando truly has it all.
Now that you know everything about all these fun things to do in Orlando, it’s time to explore and have fun!
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