We live only an hour outside of Orlando and we love that we have this exciting destination for the entire family right at our fingertips. Most people think of theme parks when they think of Orlando, but here we want to share all the family things to do in Orlando besides theme parks!
The Best Family Things to Do in Orlando (besides theme parks)
Sure, roller coasters are fun and Disney is the best but you can’t always be in theme park mode. The good news is that there are tons of things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, and here they are:
ICON Park
Formerly known as iDrive 360, ICON Park Orlando is full of great restaurants, small shops, fun bars, and amusement park rides. ICON Park has everything your family needs to have one of the best times in Orlando without the big crowds.
The Wheel at ICON Park
My girls talked about the Wheel at ICON Park for days and days after we took a ride. They started off a little scared but were so fascinated by the whole experience and kept asking to go back. The view from the top is such an awesome one, allowing you to take in all of the Orlando Area. You can also bring drinks along for the ride, turning your pod into a little lounge!
Madame Tussauds Orlando
I was shocked to see how much fun they had in Madame Tussauds wax museum. The whole family got into character and really had a blast. There’s so much fun to be had all the way through this interactive experience with celebrities, sports icons, and their favorite cartoon characters.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium
Of course, the aquarium was a hit with all three girls. Our favorite part was walking through the shark tank with the transparent floor, the girls were mesmerized. We spent so much time at the Aquarium and then kept wanting to go back for more. I highly suggest planning a visit for your family next time you are in Orlando.
Orlando’s Crayola Experience
We decided to try the Crayola Experience for the first time on my daughter’s birthday. We pulled up to the Florida Mall and we were shocked when we saw the vibrant colors in front of us. We weren’t expecting how much fun we would have. The adults had just as much fun as the kids and we kept glancing at each other with this look of “holy smokes this is so cool”.
We were there for about 4 hours but my kids could have stayed even longer if we let them. Their favorite part had to be the playground (because what kid doesn’t like climbing), making their own crayons, and the spin art (my favorite too). There were activities for all ages and I loved how educational it was so I will definitely be taking my girls back for a home school day.
Here is a fun video of our adventures at Orlando’s Crayola Experience:
Visit the Kennedy Space Center
Just an hour’s drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center is an awesome attraction for all ages. You can see a real spacecraft, meet real astronauts, and learn about NASA’s space exploration. The Kennedy Space Center offers lots of great tours and interactive exhibits, including the exciting Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit! Don’t forget to check out special activities for younger children.
See more about our trip to the Kennedy Space Center and Florida’s Space Coast HERE
Explore the Nature and Wildlife
If you’re on the hunt for fun family things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, Orlando is surrounded by so much natural beauty with so many ways to explore. Take a swamp boat tour to see wildlife in their natural habitat, visit the Gatorland Wildlife Park, or even explore the Wekiwa Springs State Park. Young children will be fascinated by all of the wildlife!
Discover the Local Culture
Orlando has a really great cultural heritage scene that is certainly worth exploring. Visit the Orlando Museum of Art, the Orlando Science Center, or the Mennello Museum of American Art. Orlando also hosts festivals and events throughout the year, like the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, the Orlando Jazz Festival, and the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival.
Andretti Indoor Karting
At Andretti Indoor Karting in Orlando, you’re in for an awesome time! They’ve got electric karts and a killer multi-level track, perfect for a family race-off. But that’s not all – there are arcade games, laser tag, and even virtual reality stuff to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re zooming around the track or battling it out in the arcade, Andretti Indoor Karting guarantees a day packed with fun for the whole family.
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Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens in Orlando is like stepping into a slice of paradise. Acres upon acres of stunning gardens, complete with colorful blooms, serene pathways, and even a picturesque tower. It’s the perfect spot for a nice stroll or a relaxing picnic area for lunch with the fam. And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of the live music they sometimes have going on. It’s a chill vibe with plenty of natural beauty to soak in, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a bit.
Central Florida Zoo
When you’re in Orlando, a visit to the Central Florida Zoo in nearby Sanford is a must-do for animal lovers of all ages. Just a short 20-mile drive from the city, this zoo is a guaranteed fun day out with the family. Get up close and personal with all sorts of animals. They have interactive experiences like feeding giraffes and encountering exotic birds. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, young and older kids alike.
Airboat Rides
Airboats zip across the water, giving you a wild ride through the swamps and marshes of the Florida Everglades. It’s like a thrilling adventure straight out of an action movie! Plus, you’ll get up close and personal with all sorts of cool wildlife, from gators to exotic birds. The whole family will have a great time and might have a really cool wild animal encounter!
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour near Orlando is a fun cruise through the coolest parts of Central Florida. Jump on one of their pontoon boats and float along the calm lakes and canals of Winter Park. Your guide will share interesting facts about the area – from its history to the wildlife that calls it home. Keep your eyes peeled for fancy mansions and maybe even some gators lounging in the sun, there are plenty of things to see in the great outdoors of Florida! It’s a super-relaxing and fun time, perfect for kicking back and soaking in the beauty of Orlando’s quieter side.
Enjoy the Food Scene
Orlando has a really diverse food scene with lots of restaurants with cuisine from around the world. Explore the ethnic neighborhoods in the area, like Little Vietnam, Little Saigon, and Little India. You can also take a food tour to sample some of the city’s best bites. Book your Food Tour HERE
Best Places to Eat
Enjoying some of Orlando’s delicious restaurants is a must on your list of fun family things to do in Orlando besides theme parks!
The Sugar Factory
Out of all the places to eat in all of Orlando my daughter chose The Sugar Factory as her birthday dinner. After our sugar-infused and very entertaining experience, I now totally understand why.
The insane milkshakes are Instagram-worthy and the ambiance was fun and exciting. It was a bit noisy, which was great to drown out the sound of my clan. Just keep that in mind if your kiddos don’t like that. There is a window outside where you can walk up and enjoy a sweet treat if you don’t want to go inside.
The Ravenous Pig
The Ravenous Pig is a farm-to-table restaurant specializing in modern American cuisine. Known for its fresh ingredients, seasonal menus, and family-friendly atmosphere. The outdoor seating area is perfect for families with kids, and the kids’ menu has plenty of options to keep them happy.
The Coop
The Coop is a Southern-style restaurant that serves comfort foods, like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens. It has a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu has plenty of options for adults and kids.
Santiago’s Bodega
Santiago’s Bodega is a tapas-style restaurant with a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing. It has a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. The outdoor seating area is a great place to relax with the family. The menu has great options for both adults and kids!
Yellow Dog Eats
Yellow Dog Eats serves creative sandwiches, salads, and side dishes. It has a fun atmosphere that kids will love! The menu has plenty of options for meat-eaters and vegetarians. Be sure to try the “Florida Cuban” or the “Freaky Tiki.”
Tako Cheena
Tako Cheena is a casual Asian-Mexican fusion restaurant. They have tacos, burritos, and bowls. Very laid-back and definitely family-friendly. Be sure to try the “Korean Beef” or the “Bangkok Shrimp” tacos. Options for the kids too.
Black Bean Deli
Black Bean Deli is a Cuban restaurant that offers authentic sandwiches, empanadas, and plantains. With a very casual atmosphere, the menu has options for adults and kids. Be sure to try the “Cubano” sandwich or the “Ropa Vieja” plate.
Great Places to Stay in and Around Orlando
Orlando is known for its world-renowned theme parks and once you have been you can totally understand why. They are pretty amazing. We used to be Disney Season Ticket Passholders and have been to all the parks more than we can count. However, there are also so many fun “theme park free” things to do in Orlando! If you want a trip with fun family things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, here is your list:
Wyndham Orlando Resort International Drive
When staying in Orlando, location is everything. We wanted to stay close to the action because when you have to go back and forth to your hotel for naps, forgotten pacifiers, or bedtime you don’t want to spend a ton of time in the car. We loved staying at the Wyndham on I-Drive because it was close to everything.
Family Suites at the Wyndham
There were so many restaurants, shopping, and attractions just a short walk away. We stayed in the Family Suite which included a King bed and a bunk bed. The girls couldn’t contain their excitement as they crawled up on the top bunk to watch their own personal TV. We usually have a hard time fitting in one room as a family of 5 but this hotel room was so spacious we didn’t feel one bit cramped. There was so much room that even with the pack-n-play and all of our luggage we could still have a dance party (and we definitely did).
Gatorville Poolside Bar & Grill at the Wyndham
The grounds were beautiful. The girls loved the pool and I loved Gatorville, the on-site grill, and its delicious margaritas. It was so nice having the convenience of a great restaurant on-site, they were even so accommodating with my husband’s diet restrictions which made things a million times easier on us. You can even visit if you’re not staying there, it’s worth it!
More Places to Stay When Visiting Orlando
Downtown Orlando
Experience the heart of the city with the whole family by staying downtown. Enjoy easy access to the best things Orlando has to offer, from live entertainment at popular music venues to performing arts theaters.
Winter Park
Located just outside of Orlando, Winter Park is a perfect place for families looking for a unique experience. Take a scenic boat tour through the chain of lakes, explore Harry P. Leu Gardens, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Park Avenue.
Lake Buena Vista
Close to the theme parks but away from the hustle and bustle, Lake Buena Vista offers a peaceful retreat for families. Relax by the wave pool or tee off at one of the nearby golf courses for some fun things to do.
Enjoy Your Own “Theme Park Free” Vacation
There you have it, tons of family things to do in Orlando besides theme parks! What is your favorite thing to do when you visit Orlando? Are theme parks a must or do you like to check out the other attractions? Do you have any questions regarding vacationing in Orlando with your family? Leave a comment below and maybe your question will be the start of my next post!
