things to do in orlando fl
Orlando, Florida, is a popular tourist destination known for its theme parks, entertainment options, and family-friendly activities. Here are some things to do in Orlando:
Theme Parks:
- Walt Disney World: The largest theme park resort in the world, featuring four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), two water parks, and several resort hotels.
- Universal Orlando Resort: Home to two theme parks (Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure), a water park, and several on-site hotels.
- SeaWorld Orlando: A marine-life theme park with shows, exhibits, and rides.
- LEGOLAND Florida: A theme park designed for kids aged 2-12, featuring rides, shows, and LEGO-themed attractions.
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: A museum and educational center showcasing the history of space exploration.
Other Attractions:
- Gatorland: A theme park and wildlife preserve featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles.
- Orlando Science Center: A science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater.
- Madame Tussauds Orlando: A wax museum featuring life-like replicas of famous celebrities and historical figures.
- The Wheel at ICON Park: A 400-foot tall Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city.
- Orlando Eye: A 400-foot tall Ferris wheel with enclosed capsules for a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Outdoor Activities:
- Lake Eola: A 43-acre lake in downtown Orlando with a walking path, paddle boat rentals, and a fountain show.
- Winter Park: A charming suburb with a scenic lake, walking trails, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
- Wekiwa Springs State Park: A natural spring and park with hiking trails, kayaking, and swimming.
- Orlando Wetlands Park: A 225-acre park with hiking trails, bird-watching, and opportunities to spot alligators and other wildlife.
- Airboat Tours: Take a guided tour of the surrounding wetlands and see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
Shopping and Dining:
- The Mall at Millenia: A luxury shopping mall with high-end retailers and dining options.
- Disney Springs: A shopping and entertainment district with a variety of stores, restaurants, and live music.
- Universal CityWalk: A entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and live music.
- International Drive: A strip of restaurants, bars, and shops along the highway.
- The Coop: A fried chicken restaurant with multiple locations throughout the city.
Sports and Events:
- Orlando Magic (NBA): Catch a basketball game at Amway Center.
- Orlando City SC (MLS): Watch a soccer game at Exploria Stadium.
- Orlando Pride (NWSL): Catch a women’s soccer game at Exploria Stadium.
- Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival: A festival featuring experimental theater performances.
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: A festival celebrating food, wine, and music from around the world.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Orlando Science Center’s IMAX Theater: A giant screen theater showing educational and entertaining films.
- LEGOLAND Water Park: A water park with rides, slides, and a wave pool.
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach: Two water parks with lazy rivers, wave pools, and water slides.
- Universal’s Volcano Bay: A water park with innovative attractions and experiences.
- Gatorland’s Gator Jumparoo Show: A live show featuring alligators and other animals.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Orlando. Whether you’re interested in theme parks, outdoor activities, shopping, or dining, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.