The 30 Best Things to do in Orlando – And Day Trips

Looking for things to do in Orlando? We’ve got you covered. Orlando has been our family’s go-to destination for decades. Canadians can’t get enough of the sunshine and theme parks of this central Florida city.

Many of us make it a base (or at least spend a few days each trip) to explore everything Orlando has to offer. So now that Snowbirds see a future where they can cross the border to escape the cold, let’s look all the top places to visit in Orlando to help you decide where to make a base on your next trip to Florida.

Best Things to do in Orlando, Florida

There are so many things to do in Orlando to complement your trips to Disney World or Universal Studios. From museums to outdoor adventures Orlando has a surprising amount of things to do outside the usual theme parks. Although they are pretty great too! So let’s go on a tour of all the things to do in Orlando.

It’s no secret that Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. The most popular of all the Florida theme parks are Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios.

It seems like Orlando was built around its amusement parks with the entire city focusing its businesses around its many amusement parks. Heck, most of the businesses feel like you are walking into a theme park and we like it like that! Who doesn’t love escaping to a fantasy land for a day or two?

Florida is most certainly the theme park capital of the United States and that deserves an entire article of its own. We have one right here! 11 Best Theme Parks in Florida To Visit in 2023

We won’t spend too long on Orlando’s theme parks since we all know about most of them, but let’s break down what you can see and do at each of them. Are you ready? Let’s go.

Walt Disney World Resort

It’s the grand daddy of all theme parks. Walt Disney World Resort is the ultimate family escape encompassing four theme parks and two waterparks. You could visit Orlando again and again and still not see all of Disney World.

Get ready for your next visit at Walt Disney World announced an updated nighttime spectacular with the return of the “Happily Ever After” lighting up the skies at Magic Kingdom Park. 

Walt Disney World Resort is constantly changing and adding to it to keep people coming back again and again. Let’s break all the theme parks down.

1. Magic Kingdom

The original Magic Kingdom is the classic Disney theme park built around the fairytale castle (modeled after Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany). It’s here that kids love seeing Mickey Mouse, the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean while parents love the thrill of Space Mountain. It’s a classic theme park and one of the top things to do in Orlando for first-time visitors. Read more Top 10 Roller Coasters in Florida

Keep an eye out for TRON Lightcycle / Run which is scheduled to open at Magic Kingdom Park this spring. Based on the Disney sci-fi film TRON, it will be one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park in the world.

2. Epcot Center

Epcot Center takes you around the world without needing to travel with the World Showcase featuring 11 countries where you can immerse in their culture. Go Soarin’ Around the World in the IMAX simulator, create your own concept car to take a spin along the test track, or check out the classic Epcot attraction, that takes you on a journey through time. The all-ages attraction will allow guests to explore and engage with water as it travels from the skies to the oceans and back again. 

3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios

We always love going to film studios, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios has transformed from its original MGM studio tour to a Hollywood setting taking you through worlds from the movies. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge lets you experience everything Star Wars. Go through 3D motion simulators to building your own droid. Kids will love the Toy Story and Pixar themes too.

4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom celebrates the earth’s animals plus a few from Avatar’s Pandora. We personally haven’t been to Animal Kingdom as we aren’t fans of zoos and don’t think that animals should be put on display for people’s entertainment.

We are more fans of sanctuaries and since we are travelers and have been to most of the destinations showcasing these animals, we’d rather see lions on the African savanna rather than in a theme park. But at least Disney gives animals plenty of room to roam.

And if you aren’t an avid traveler you can be transported from Everest to Kilimanjaro Safaris. The star attraction is Avatar Flight of Passage, a ride simulation through Pandora.

5. Typhoon Lagoon

Don’t worry if you are a water lover, Disney has a water park too! Typhoon Lagoon has water slides and surf pools, beaches and lazy rivers. So even if you don’t make it to Daytona or Miami Beach, you can still have a beach holiday. But Daytona does make a great trip for Orlando, we have stayed in Daytona and made day trips to Orlando in the past, read more: Best Things to do in Daytona Beach, Florida

6. Disney’s Blizzard Beach Waterpark

This 66-acre water park is a great place to chill out. The theme of this park is a ski resort melted into warm and inviting waters. Since it takes place in a ski resort, there are many downhill slopes and slides to be enjoyed. There are winter themes such as the snow castle fountain, Tikes Peak, Toboggan Racers and the Downhill Double Dipper.

If you are feeling fearless you can tackle Mount Gushmore, one of the world’s fasted and tallest waterslides. There’s also a lazy river and white sandy beaches to remind you that you are enjoying fun in the sun.

Read 18 Best Beaches in Florida for Fun in the Sun

Universal Orlando Resort

The next on our list of top things to do in Orlando is to make your way to Universal Orlando Resort. It is definitely giving Walt Disney World Resort a run for its money with seven island parks on Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, four hotels and a waterpark. Universal has some major thrill rides with fast rollercoasters and fun virtual reality rides. Check out: The Best All Inclusive Resorts in Florida

7. Universal Studios

Movie buffs will love Universal Studios with rides inspired by film and TV. There are plenty of 3D rides that will make your stomach jump. From the Shrek 4D and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem to The Simpsons Ride, you’ll be immersed in animation. If you want roller coasters, this is the place to go with the 70 mph Jurassic World Velocicoaster to the more relaxing 40 mph Revenge of the Mummy.

Get your 3 Park Ticket giving access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme parks. Hassle-free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.

8. Harry Potter and Diagon Alley

Universal Orlando Resort is a mix of theme park and working studio and you can also check out Harry Potter’s escape from Gringott’s bank. Harry Potter is so popular he crosses over two theme parks!

We were lucky enough to visit the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Diagon Alley. Even as adults we loved this. It helps that I am a Harry Potter fan!

What we love about Universal is that its rides are geared to adults with some extreme roller coasters, and simulators. In fact, I was so nauseous after one ride I had to take a few rides off as Dave went on some of roller coasters without me.

9. Universal Islands of Adventure

Besides The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Hogsmeade, Universal Islands of Adventure has seven other themed sections. Marvel Super Hero Island, The Lost Continent, Port of Entry, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, Skull Island, and Seuss Landing are all places you can explore. Each of the island parks all has rides geared toward the perspective movie genres.

Stay Tuned for Minion Land

Get ready for Minion land opening at Universal Studios, featuring the beloved Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction, a new Minion café and more.

The featured new ride that is opening this summer 2023 is Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. It will combine innovative screen technology, state-of-the-art gaming interactivity, and elaborate physical sets to create a one-of-a-kind, game-based adventure where guests encounter immersive environments, nefarious villains, and tons of mischievous Minions from Illumination’s blockbuster film franchise.  

10. City Walk

You don’t even have to necessarily go into the park to enjoy Universal Resort, City Walk has some fun attractions outside the gate. Play a round of mini golf, catch a movie or grab a bite. It’s a fun place to take a stroll and feel the energy.

If you are looking for something unique to do, Universal’s Great Movie Escape at Universal CityWalk is the first-ever escape room experience that features two rooms with interactive state-of-the-art missions. It’s intricately detailed sets were inspired by Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s blockbuster films Jurassic World and Back to the Future.  

Where to Stay at Univeral Orlando Resort

11. Blue Spring State Park

Located 45 minutes outside of Orlando in Orange City, Blue Spring State Park is not to be missed. It is the premier place to view manatees as they make their way up the St. Johns River during the winter months to avoid the cold ocean waters. Take a walk along the 1.3-mile boardwalk to see manatees swimming. You can also get in the water at Blue Spring State Park and do some swimming, paddle boarding and river tubing in designated areas.

If you want to take a tour, this Manatee Snorkel experience with airboat ride is highly rated and takes you to Homosassa State Park to swim with the manatees of the Crystal River. It also includes a 30 Minute airboat ride on the Withlacoochee River.

12. International Drive

International Drive (aka I-Drive) is one of the must visit places in Orlando. This resort area is filled with tons of attractions, restaurants, entertainment and shopping.

International Drive has a midway feel with indoor go-carting, indoor skydiving, arcade games, and mini golf.

Where to Stay at International Drive – We stayed at Wyndham Orlando Resort and it was fantastic. It was within walking distance to some of the best attractiosn on International Drive and to nearby restaurants and the movie theater. Yet it was far enough away from it all giving an upscale quiet retreat. Check it out on TripAdvisor

There are many hotels in the area, making it International Drive to explore from your resort. Let’s check out a few of I-Drive’s top sites.

13. Fun Spot America

Looking for an amusement park outside Universal and Disney? Fun Spot America is located at International Drive and is fun for the whole family with go-kart tracks, a roller coaster, kids’ rides, and a splash park. Get your tickets in advance – includes free parking and admission to the water park.

Unlike our other Orlando theme parks, Fun Spot does not charge for non-riders – which is perfect for parents of older children. Instead, parents can watch their children enjoy the rides for free and stay safely on the ground.

14. The Wheel at Icon Park

The Wheel at Icon Park is a 400 feet high observation wheel that takes 23 minutes to do a full rotation. This is one of the more popular things to do in Orlando at night. Make sure to stop at the Sky Bar to pick up some bubbly or beer for your ride. The pods are air conditioned and hold up to 15 people.

You can get your tickets in advance – Enjoy the city views from the pod with this flexible ticket that lets you visit when it suits your schedule. You can upgrade to include dining experiences or activities such as tickets to the Starflyer, Madame Tussauds Orlando, or SEA LIFE Orlando.(easy cancellation for full refund within 24 hours of ticket entry)

15. WonderWorks

WonderWorks is a fun interactive science center with attractions like the Space Discovery Zone, Extreme Weather Zone, The Physical Challenge Zone, and the Imagination Lab.

16. Escape Game

If you love escape rooms, Escape Game on International Drive was rated the #1 Escape Room in Orlando.

17. I-Ride Trolley

The I-Ride Trolley is a great way to get around International Drive. A single fare is $2 per ride, but it is best to get a day pass. Day passes range from one day for $5 unlimited rides to 3,5,7 and 14-day passes. See the I-Ride Trolley for Details.

18. Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds Wax Museums have endured the decades. There’s something that attracts people to famous wax figures when on vacation and Orlando has filled that requirement by having its own Madame Tussauds. If you are into that, check it out.

19. Church Street, Downtown Orlando

Most people don’t think of spending time downtown Orlando on their Florida vacations, but there are plenty of things to see and do. Church Street is the heart of downtown Orlando with the best restaurants and nightlife. Make your way to the East End Market to see art, food and fruit and vegetables from all around Central Florida or enjoy the bistros and cafes of Thornton Park. Downtown Orlando is also home to the Amway Sports Arena that is home to the NBA Basketball Team, the Orlando Magic.

20. Fringe ArtSpace

The newest attraction in downtown Orlando is the Orlando Fringe at Fringe ArtSpace. The 9100 square foot space is a year round performing arts venue with two theatre spaces. A main stage and the smaller black box venue. Make sure to check it out to see its programs of concerts and theatres plus pop up events and workshops.

21. Orlando Magic and Amway Center

If you are a basketball fan, head over to the Amway Center and pick up some tickets to see the Orlando Magic, Orlando’s NBA team. Winners of six division championships, this is one popular team! If you can’t get tickets to a game, check out a concert at the arena, there are regular events, and performances and the hockey team Orlando Solar Bears call the Amway Center home as well.

22. Lake Eola Park

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola is nearly a mile of waterfront sidewalks circling a picturesque lake. The Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain aka Centennial Fountain is the official symbol of Orlando. This serene park is a popular place for concerts and dining. You can rent paddle boards in the park as well.

23. Orlando Science Center

Nearly every major city in the world has a science center and Orlando is no exception. These interactive museums are a great way to spark interest in science and technology for the little ones. Everybody loves the Kinetic Zone offering an introduction to physics or going back millions of years to the age of the dinosaurs. It has it all. Science is cool man.

24. Orlando Museum of Art

Just because you are visiting the theme park capital of the world doesn’t mean you don’t require a bit of culture. The Orlando Museum of Art is a modern art museum housing everything from local artists to French classic artists like Cézanne and Gauguin.

25. Titanic Artifact Museum

For Titanic Lovers, the The Artifact Exhibition in Orlando houses nearly 200 artifacts from the Titanic recovered by RMS Titanic Inc. We are always fascinated with Titanic exhibitions. We’ve been to the Titanic Museum in Belfast where the Titanic left from its port and in Halifax where the major rescue and recovery took place at the time of its sinking off the coast.

Get your tickets in advance to Titanic Artifact Museum – See artifacts recovered from the Titanic and immerse in the experience through full-scale recreations of her Grand Staircase, First Class Cabin and more while actors in period costumes portray Titanic notables.

26. Morse Museum of American Art

See the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany, an American Art Nouveau artist, and designer who was the son of the founder of Tiffany and Company. He is most famous for working with glass designing lamps, stained glass windows and mosaics. He was also the first design director of Tiffany & Co.

This museum showcases his glass works including a chapel interior that was on display at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

27. Harry P Leu Botanical Gardens

Another tropical oasis just minutes from downtown Orlando is the Harry P Leu Gardens. This 50 acre park is a great escape if you are looking for something different to do in Orlando. There’s a butterfly garden, a tropical rainforest and a variety of exotic plants from around the world.

Things to do Near Orlando

My parents spend their winters in Winter Haven. Located 1 hour south of Orlando, it is a popular Snowbird destination and there are quite a few things to do here to add to your Orlando itinerary. My dad made a point of telling me that if I ever wrote about things to do in Orlando, I must include these other Central Florida attractions. So let’s check them out.

28. Tree Trek Adventure Park

If you are looking for an adventure, the Tree Trek Adventure Park is fun for the whole family. Experience arial challenges above the forest canopy and a giant 425 foot long zip line. There are courses for all levels including 2 kids courses and adult courses ranging in height and difficulty. Tackle the silver obstacle course for the ultimate challenge.

Tree Trek Adventure Park is located at 7625 Sinclair Rd in Kissimmee, Florida 34747

29. Kennedy Space Center

With Elon Musk and Richard Branson starting up the space race again, interest in Space travel is at an all time high. The Kennedy Space Center has been attracting visitors to Cape Canaveral for decades. Check out the astronaut training center and the Apollo / Saturn V race to the moon. There are plenty of interactive displays and old rockets and space craft on hand.

Pick up your skip the line tickets to the Kennedy Space Center for access to many exhibits including, Space Shuttle Atlantis, Shuttle Launch Experience, Rocket Garden, and IMAX Spacefilms.

This Kennedy Space Center Day Trip includes transportation from Orlando, Kissimee, Disney and Lake Buena Vista areas and with access to Kennedy Space Centre attractions and a visit to restricted areas.

30. Manatee Day Trip and Air Boats

One of the best ways to get up close and personal with Manatees is to take a tour. If the Manatees aren’t in Blue Spring State Park (since they are only there seasonally)This Manatee Snorkel experience with airboat ride takes you to Homosassa State Park to swim with the manatees of the Crystal River. It also includes a 30 Minute airboat ride on the Withlacoochee River.

Visiting animals in their natural habitat is our preferred way of experiencing wildlife. We suggest this over places such as the Central Florida Zoo or Gatorland.

31. Old Town Kissimmee

Step back in time and visit the Old Town of Kissimee. This town is modelled after a classic Florida town filled with restaurants, shops and tree lined streets resembling a bygone era. Make sure you visit on a Saturday night for the Saturday Nite Classic Car Cruise and take a ride on the Old Town’s iconic Ferris Wheel.

32. Winter Park

When touring around during a visit with my parents, we stopped in Winter Park and my first thought was “mom and dad should buy a place here!” This Orange County city is filled with parks and its main street Park Avenue has plenty of shopping and dining. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is one of Orlando’s top attractions taking visitors through seven lakes and two canals.

Winter Park has an upscale feeling that is completely different from the Disney and Universal attractions. It is a way to experience Orlando like a local with upscale dining, fine art museums and  2,781 acres of pristine waterways.

33. Bok Tower Gardens

Located between Tampa and Orlando, this is a beautiful day trip from the city. Birders love Bok Tower Gardens with its 126 different species of birds making it a designated stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. There are 50 acres of gardens including a children’s garden situated around the neo-Gothic Singing Tower carillon. There are only 600 carillons in the world! This bell tower is played by professional Carillonneurs. It’s worth visiting for this alone!

34. Legoland

Legoland has come a long way baby and Legoland Florida is a combination theme park and waterpark in one. This is definitely a park for the whole family. A very cool fact is that Legoland is on the site of the former Cypress Gardens which was famous for its water shows since 1939. While Cypress Gardens is officially closed, it lives on in Legoland’s Botanical Gardens where the giant Cypress tree still stands.

Leggoland’s newest attraction is opening soon. Pirate River Quest is a treasure hunt adventure that sees guests follow a pirate in search of treasure through the waters of Cypress Gardens to explore its canals.

And these are just some of the amazing things to do in Orlando. Orlando is certainly one of the top tourist destinations in the United States attracting visitors from around the world.

After visiting again and again, we always find something new. Florida has catered to tourists down to a science and the people in charge are forever thinking of new ways to entice visitors to the State. And a great place to start is Orlando!