Let me take a wild guess at something. If I were to ask you for another word to associate with the city of Orlando, you’d immediately think Disney. Or Mickey Mouse. But you know what? There are so many other fun things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks that it is becoming one of our favorite destinations in Florida, especially during the winter months.
The city is a great jumping-off point to explore Central Florida. And because of its popularity, there are a ton of lodging options that range from budget-friendly to 5-star accommodations. We take advantage of the low-cost condo rentals that offer full kitchens which is great for our pocketbook and our sanity for long-term travel.
From adults-only to family-friendly attractions, discover the other unique things to do in Orlando besides theme parks below.
Things to Do in Orlando Besides Disney
If you’re looking for things to do in Florida other than Disney, there are also plenty of fun day trips from Orlando like Kennedy Space Center, Silver Springs Park with a scenic boat tour, and Bok Tower Gardens.
Things to do in Orlando in November and December:
Orlando Christmas Guide
1. Play Around at an Inflatable Water Park
A perfect thing to do on a hot Florida day is to challenge yourself to a floating obstacle course! See if you can conquer Aqua Park at Nona Adventure Park.
The whole family will have a blast swinging, running, falling, climbing, and jumping on Adventure Lake. The minimum age requirement is 5 years old.
Where: 14086 Centerline Drive, Orlando
2. Walk Around Harry P Leu Gardens
If you are into history or nature, make a detour at Harry P Leu Gardens, a 50-acre tropical garden on the banks of Lake Rowena just minutes from downtown Orlando.
Three buildings on the property, including the Leu House Museum, have landed on the National Register of Historic Places.
It’s great for families too. One reviewer says, “What a great experience! Beautiful and easy for families with strollers. The fairy doors are so creative. My two girls loved finding them and the stories for each one. We were able to eat a packed picnic next to the entrance where they had outdoor tables.”
Where: 1920 N Forest Avenue, Orlando
3. Shoot a Fully Automatic Machine Gun
One of the unique things to do in Orlando besides theme parks is learning how to shoot a machine gun over at Machine Gun America.
Each visitor is given a selection of firearms, eye and ear protection, one-on-one instruction, and a range target. And off you go to target practice.
Where: 5825 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway
4. Rent a Swan Boat on Lake Eola
A fun thing to do in downtown Orlando is to get out for a paddle on Lake Eola in one of the swan-shaped boats that hold up to five people. Check Groupon for discounted swan boat rentals.
The lake, located in the heart of downtown Orlando, is home to five swan species: Trumpeter Swans, Whooper Swans, Black Neck Swans, Australian Black Swans, and Royal Mute Swans. They first arrived at the lake in 1922 and have been coming back ever since. And even have their own Twitter account!
TIP: If you are looking for a free thing to do in Orlando, take a walk on the paved trail around the lake.
Where: 512 E Washington Street, Orlando
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5. Character Dining Outside of the Theme Parks
As of 2023, almost all the Walt Disney World character dining is open, but always check sites for updated information.
You don’t need to pay for theme park admission to have access to character meals. For a low-cost, stress-free option, check out these places below:
- Character Breakfasts at Wyndham Lake Buena Vista’s Lakeview Restaurant.
- Sunday Disney Character Breakfast at Hilton Orlando.
- Breakfast at Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Breakfast with Lilo and Stitch at the Polynesian
- Breakfast with Disney Characters or Dinner with Cinderella and Prince Charming at the Grand Floridian.
6. Explore Tibet – Butler Nature Preserve
A wooded oasis just a stone’s throw from Disney’s Magic Kingdom, the Tibet- Butler Nature Preserve is a county park with a small nature center, butterfly garden, picnic area, and 3.4 miles of trails and spurs.
It’s a great place for families to get away from the crowds and work in some exercise. It’s also one of the most enjoyable things to do in Orlando for free.
TIP: Call before you go to check on the trails, flooding occurs in the rainy season. (407) 254-1940.
Where: 8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Orlando
7. Hit the Track, the Go-Kart Track That Is
Technically Fun Spot Orlando is a theme park, but it doesn’t feel like it. It’s a family-owned park, the lines are shorter, it’s on a much smaller scale, and admission and parking are free so you can pay for whatever specific activity you are interested in like Go-Karts!
Fun Spot America in Old Town offers four multi-level tracks for all ages with karts that get up to 34 mph.
If you are interested in going in combination with a few other things on the list, check Groupon for discounted tickets for Fun Spot Orlando admission.
Where: 5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando
8. Learn How to Wakeboard
Always dreamt of riding the waves, but don’t know where to begin? Head over to the Orlando Watersports Complex, one of the largest cable wakeboard parks in the United States.
Instead of a boat pulling the rider, a steady cable hangs overhead. The park offers private one-on-one lessons on how to get up riding on your own and offers a get-up guarantee. Once you get the hang of it, you’re let loose to practice on your own and attempt whatever tricks you want to try.
Where: 8615 Florida Rock Road, Orlando
9. Learn Something at the Orlando Science Center
Who said you couldn’t learn a thing or two on vacation? The Orlando Science Center is the perfect indoor thing to do in Orlando if it’s raining or too hot to want to explore outdoors.
The museum has four floors of interactive displays, rotating guest exhibits, labs and workshops, two movie theaters, a domed observatory, and laser light shows.
Where: 777 E Princeton Street, Orlando
10. Visit the World of Chocolate Museum and Cafe
Chocolate lovers unite! You will learn about where chocolate comes from and be able to try chocolates they make right there in Orlando or try other ones from all over at the World of Chocolate Museum and Cafe.
The coolest attraction is the two dozen famous landmarks carved from solid chocolate. You’ll recognize buildings like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben in London, and the Statue of Liberty to name a few.
Check Groupon for discounted admission to the World of Chocolate.
Where: 11701 International Drive, Orlando
11. Discover Disney Springs
Disney Springs, also known as Downtown Disney, is a free outdoor entertainment district with shopping, bars, and restaurants. You’ll find live music, street performers, a bowling alley, a movie theater, and a tethered helium balloon.
As for things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, take a family-friendly scavenger hunt, shop for Disney souvenirs, visit the Lego store, or meet the Coca-Cola Polar Bear.
TIP: Most restaurants offer Military discounts so don’t forget to ask.
Where: 1486 Lake Buena Vista
If you are taking a ride to Disney Springs, go 15 minutes further to the charming town of Celebration. It is a master-planned community designed by The Walt Disney Group and has a pedestrian-friendly downtown with many great shops and restaurants and a network of boardwalks throughout the parks within the neighborhood.
12. Hike at Shingle Creek Nature Preserve
Who would have thought you could take a hike in Orlando?! The Shingle Creek Nature Preserve is a little hidden gem in southwest Orlando.
It’s a short trail along a creek with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife like alligators, woodpeckers, otters, blue herons, and more for free.
Tip: The trailhead begins behind Hunter’s Creek Middle School.
Where: 13400 Town Loop Blvd, Orlando
13. Eat at the World’s Largest McDonald’s
I would never include a McDonald’s on any of my lists but I am a roadside attractions nut so the “world’s largest” anything always gets my attention.
The large two-story building is 18,716 square feet and also includes an arcade, playland, and a 30-foot tall Ronald McDonald.
And the self-proclaimed epic McDonald’s offers way more food options than their typical menu including custom brick-oven baked pizzas, omelets, pasta, and Belgium waffles.
Where: 6875 Sand Lake Rd
14. Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park
Channel your inner Tarzan at the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park. With over 97 aerial challenges including rope swings, suspension bridges, balancing airborne skateboards, ladders, and a 425-foot zip line, it’s an adventure among the trees.
If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando with kids, the two separate kids courses are designed with 21 challenges to wear the kiddos out! There’s something for everyone ages 7 and up.
Where: 7625 Sinclair Rd
15. The Wheel at ICON Park
Get a bird’s eye view up on The Wheel at ICON Park. You’ll be able to rotate up to 400 feet on what’s fondly known as the Orlando Eye.
The observation wheel isn’t the only thing going on at the entertainment district. You’ll also find amusement rides, arcades, and fun restaurants to eat at like the Yard House, Sugar Factory, Tin Roof, and Shake Shack.
Click here for discounted Wheel at ICON tickets here.
TIP: Student and Florida Resident Discounts are available and the parking garage is free.
Where: 8375 International Drive
16. SEA LIFE Aquarium
Also located at ICON Park, the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is an enjoyable place for adults and children. It’s on the smaller side but is nicely designed and has many sea creatures and interactive exhibits.
Make your way through the 360-degree ocean tunnel as young sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays, circle around you.
Where: 8375 International Drive
17. Gatorland
It doesn’t get any more old-school Florida than alligators and swamp shows. Before there was Disney World, Gatorland opened as one of Central Florida’s first attractions.
Inside the park and wildlife preserve, you’ll be able to take a boardwalk stroll above wetlands, see thousands of alligators, snakes, and crocodiles, climb an observation tower, discover a bird aviary, see an alligator wrestling and feeding show, and pet small animals. They also have a few zip lines (some over gators, of course) and a small splash park.
Make it an all-day experience with a discounted ticket to Gatorland, the Alligator Capital of the World.
Where: 14501 Orange Blossom Trail
18. Take in a Show or a Concert
There are ten Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament locations in the United States, and Orlando is one of them.
We took our nephews a few years ago in Chicago and we all had a blast. It is an entertaining night of knights, jousting, and talented horseback riding, all while eating your dinner medieval-style – with your hands – up in the stands.
Read about our Medieval Times Chicago experience here.
At The Walt Disney Theatre, you will find an array of family entertainment including musicals, plays, concerts, and other live events. Visitors can watch wrestling, soccer games, live concerts, and events like the Monster Jam down the street at the Camping World Stadium.
19. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience a picturesque morning view over Orlando at sunrise. For many, a hot air balloon ride is a bucket list item.
So go float with the wind and take in the spectacular views.
Begin your journey at Showcase of Citrus with an experienced pilot.
Then afterward, enjoy some champagne or sparkling cider with pastries, cheese, and crackers.
Where: 5010 US-27, Clermont, Florida
20. Play a Round of Golf
There are many public golf courses in Central Florida with a few of them highly rated. Designed by the renowned Arnold Palmer Design Company, Shingle Creek Golf Club was named “Best Golf Course in Orlando” for 2020.
Orange County National features two championship courses, a 9 hole short course, and one of the largest driving ranges and practice facilities in America. And has been deemed, “a must-play course” in the area.
21. Escape Room
Challenge your mind at The Asylum Escape. Step into a customized room and solve clues and puzzles to figure out how to get out!
The big question is who among your group will be able to crack the code?
Where: 8723 International Drive
22. Indoor Skydive at iFLY Orlando
If you’ve ever been interested in skydiving, but are not quite sure you want to jump out of an airplane, indoor skydiving is the way to go!
At iFLY, you are only feet from the ground but still get that thrilling feeling of flying through the air. Adults and kids alike get a kick out of this experience.
Click here for discounted skydiving tickets here.
Where: 8969 International Drive, Orlando
23. Outlet Malls
Shop till you drop! Orlando has made a name for itself as a shopper’s paradise. But my tip is always to look for good deals.
If you like high-end products, visit the Orlando Premium Outlets on International Drive and Vineland Avenue. But if you want some Disney Souvenirs, Old Navy, or Under Armour gear head over to Lake Buena Vista Factory. Shopping is one of the most popular things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, you’ll never see a parking lot empty.
24. Crayola Experience
If you’re looking for things to do near Orlando International Airport with kids, the Crayola Experience is a fantastic place to spend a few hours.
With hands-on activities such as creating your own custom crayon and playing with clay, selfie stations, and a live show, you’ll “make colorful family memories that will last a lifetime!” just like Crayola says.
Where: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail
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Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
25. Get a Couples Massage
No kids and looking for a way to turn your trip into a romantic one? Head over to St Somewhere Spa for a hot stone couples massage, a glass of wine or champagne, and access to a coed steam room and sauna, salt room, and pools.
26. Check out the Craft Beer Scene
If you like trying local craft beer, there are many options in and around Orlando. You can spend weeks trying them all!
You will find Orlando Brewing, Rockpit Brewing, Hourglass Brewing, and Dead Lizard Brewing Company near downtown.
In northern Orlando, there’s Something’s Brewing Florida, The Bear and Peacock Brewery, Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company, Broken Strings, Ten10 Brewery, and Sideward Brewing. And the list goes on and on.
27. Make it a Comedy Night
There are a few comedy venues in and around Orlando. If you’re a fan of the television show “Whose Line is it Anyway,” head over to Sak Comedy Lab where Wayne Brady was once a cast member. It has been voted one of the “50 best comedy clubs in America.”
For another fast-paced improv experience, join Mama’s Comedy Show at Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show every Friday night for an adults-only night out of dinner and drinks.
If improv doesn’t tickle your fancy, hit up Bonkerz Comedy Club for stellar stand-up acts that’ll have you in stitches.
28. DIY Bar Crawl including an Ice Bar
Head over to International Drive for a do-it-yourself pub crawl. Start out at The Pub for appetizers and drinks.
Then, head over to the ICEBAR Orlando, the largest permanent ICEBAR in the world. It’s made of 70 tons of ice! They will provide you with thermal coats and gloves for a very “cool” experience.
End the night at ICON Park for some live music, hit up Ole Red for country, and Tin Roof for a variety.
And if you REALLY want to make it a memorable night, buy a ticket for Sky Bar 360. It is a private capsule (for up to 10 people) on The Wheel with unlimited drinks high in the sky!
29. Join a Cooking Class
A cooking class is an entertaining way to spend an evening whether you’re with your significant other, friends, or flying solo. Publix Aprons Cooking School has all kinds of classes to learn how to cook hearty soups to holiday-themed appetizers to full-blown wine and dine meals. Their couples-only option changes monthly but always includes a hands-on learning experience covering excellent dishes.
CozyMeal offers a wide range of group cooking classes that is great for adults including a Fun and Simple Weekend Brunch and Intro to Traditional Sushi Rolls.
With over 38 years of experience, Truffles and Trifles is one of the largest cooking schools in the Southeast. Food Network included the school as one of the “Nation’s Top Five Cooking Schools for Fun.” A few favorites include a Girl’s Night Out, Healthy Low Carb Cooking, and Date Night Cooking with Wine.
30. Outdoor Movie Night at Leu Gardens
The first Friday of every month is Date Night at Leu Gardens. Grab some chairs or a blanket, pick up a bottle of wine (alcohol is permitted) and a to-go dinner, and get situated in the garden for their feature film.
Times vary throughout the year: for February, March, October thru December movie time is 7:30 pm. From April thru August, it is 8:30 pm. And September’s movie time is 8:00 pm. Doors/gates open usually an hour to an hour and a half ahead of time.
31. Take a Food Tour
Even though at first glance Orlando seems to be the epicenter of chain restaurant-land, the city surprisingly has a thriving food scene.
Take the Ivanhoe Village tour, a three-hour foodie adventure where you’ll visit five favorite local establishments to sample delicious food.
Get acquainted with the indie vibe and historical charm of the lake community.
32. Visit a Post-Apocalyptic Themed Craft Beer Bar
Found at the back of Gods and Monsters comic book store, Vault 5421 is advertised as a post-apocalyptic wasteland. It’s small and dark, and there are a whole lotta skulls hanging around reminiscent of a villain’s lair.
The secret gaming bar beckons comic book enthusiasts and “road warrior vagabonds” looking to escape the norm.
Featuring an end-of-the-world vibe, it’s not necessarily for everyone but definitely an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Vault 5421 is open Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights only.
WHERE: 5421 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
33. Axe Throwing
I’m not really sure what this new craze is all about, but axe throwing seems to be all the rage and I want in! Epic Axe Throwing has rave reviews and since they serve alcohol and are for ages 13+ it’s perfect for an adults-only outing.
“Had a great time visiting here! The staff was very welcoming and friendly. Good music. Similar to bowling, you rent the throwing area for an hour at a time. About $25 a person. Wear closed-toe shoes. Certainly a fun, unique experience!”
Other Interesting Things to Do in Florida that’s Close to Orlando
- How to Swim with Manatees
- Bike the Longest Paved Trail in Florida
- Take a Glass Bottom Boat over One of the Most Beautiful Natural Springs in the State
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Do you have any other suggestions on things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks? We’d love to hear about them below in the comments!
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I love reading blog posts like this because it gives me a new perspective on things to do in Orlando besides theme parks. Thanks for the suggestion!