It’s clear that the main reason thousands of people visit Orlando every day is to go to Disney and Universal Studios theme parks. But this city located in the state of Florida has other attractions beyond the parks. In this post, I share with you what to do in Orlando besides the theme parks for a day when you want to take a break from so many parks or simply feel like exploring more of the city.
10 Things to do in Orlando besides theme parks
1. Go shopping at Orlando Outlets
If shopping is your thing, make sure to visit one of Orlando’s outlets. You’ll find stores from the most well-known brands at much more affordable prices than in a regular mall. The most famous outlets are: Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Ave Premium Outlets. Another place you can go to is The Mall at Millenia, although it’s a regular mall so the prices aren’t as budget-friendly.
Tip: At the Orlando International Premium Outlets, you’ll find the Disney’s Character Warehouse store, where you can get a bunch of official Disney products at super cheap prices!
2. Visit Legoland
If you feel like visiting more theme parks, I recommend Legoland, located in Winter Haven just 1 hour from Orlando. This theme park is ideal for children aged 3 to 12. All the park’s figures are made with Lego pieces!
There are games, roller coasters, pools, and even a hotel (Legoland Florida) for those who want to stay overnight. It seems like an ideal plan for those with younger kids because the park is exclusively designed for them. Admission to Legoland is included in the GO City attraction pass.
3. Visit Fun Spot America
If you’re craving more adrenaline, visit Fun Spot America, a theme park located very close to the popular Disney parks where you’ll find roller coasters, games, and go-kart tracks. Admission to Fun Spot America is included in the GO City attraction pass.
4. Visit Downtown Orlando
The center of Orlando is about a 20-minute drive from the theme parks area, although very few tourists visit it. However, Downtown Orlando is a good option for an afternoon or evening. A very popular street in downtown Orlando is Church Street, with a lot of nightlife, restaurants, and the city’s historic train depot. Another recommended place downtown is Lake Eola Park, a beautiful green park with a lake in the middle of the city.
5. Visit Disney Springs
Disney fans can’t miss visiting Disney Springs, an outdoor shopping promenade with themed shops, restaurants, and more. There’s something for everyone, and it’s a fun place to stroll around after a day at the parks. Check out the official Disney Springs website for more information.
6. Eat at Universal CityWalk
Just like Disney, Universal also has its outdoor shopping promenade where you’ll find a wide variety of shops and themed restaurants like Bubba Gump, Hard Rock Cafe, Voodoo Doughnut, and more. Check out the official Universal CityWalk website for more information.
7. Go up The Wheel at ICON park
The Wheel at ICON Park Orlando is a 120-meter tall Ferris wheel from where you can see all of Orlando. In addition to that, at the park, you’ll find more rides, the famous Madame Tussauds Orlando museum, an aquarium, and more. Book your ticket for The Wheel at ICON Park here.
8. Visit WonderWorks Orlando
WonderWorks is an entertainment center focused on science. There are exhibits and super fun activities that challenge your mind. It’s a very entertaining place but also educational. Book your ticket for WonderWorks here.
9. Visit Clearwater Beach
If you’re looking for a white sand beach to enjoy the Florida weather, Clearwater Beach is a paradise just 90 minutes from Orlando. It’s not super close, but if you have a free day and want to relax on the beach, I think it’s a great option. You can also book a day trip tour to Clearwater Beach.
10. Visit Kennedy Space Center
If you’re into space, NASA, rockets, you can’t miss a trip to the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral. It’s located just 1 hour from Orlando and is a visit that will fascinate you.
The visitor center is very interactive and perfect for all ages as there are many activities for kids. In fact, I was taken there when I was 7 years old and I loved it, I still remember some things!
If you don’t want to drive, you can book this day trip to the Kennedy Space Center.
Other useful posts:
- Where to stay in Orlando
- Where to stay in Miami
- Things to do in Miami in 3 days
- Things to do in 4 days in Chicago
- West Coast Road trip Itinerary: from Seattle to LA
- The best things to do in New York City
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