things to do in orlando florida not theme parks

While Orlando is famous for its theme parks, there are plenty of other exciting things to do in the city beyond the world of Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld. Here are some ideas:

1. Kayak the Winter Park Chain of Lakes: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the beautiful lakes and canals of Winter Park.
2. Orlando Science Center: A great place for families, with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater.
3. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Just a short drive from Orlando, this park offers hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities in a beautiful natural setting.
4. Orlando Museum of Art: A premier cultural institution in the city, with a diverse collection of American and African art.
5. Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College: Another great art museum in the area, with a collection of over 8,000 works of art.
6. Leu Gardens: A 50-acre botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, walking paths, and a butterfly garden.
7. Wells’ Built Museum: A unique museum showcasing a collection of African American art and culture.
8. Thornton Park: A charming neighborhood with a vibrant arts scene, boutique shops, and restaurants.
9. Enzian Theater: An independent movie theater that hosts film festivals and showcases foreign and indie films.
10. Lake Eola Park: A downtown park with a lake, walking paths, and a weekly farmers’ market.
11. Orlando Farmers’ Market: A weekly market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and street food.
12. Airboat Tours: Explore the Florida wetlands on a guided airboat tour, spotting alligators and other wildlife.
13. Shopping on International Drive: From outlet malls to specialty stores, I-Drive is a shopper’s paradise.
14. Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center: A state-of-the-art venue hosting a variety of performances, including concerts, ballet, and theater productions.
15. Outdoor movie nights: Many parks and venues in Orlando offer outdoor movie screenings during the summer months.
16. Winter Park Village: An upscale shopping and dining district with a park-like atmosphere.
17. Cassy Batchelor Art Studio: A local art studio offering classes, workshops, and private lessons.
18. Orange County Regional History Center: A museum showcasing the history of Central Florida.
19. University of Central Florida Arboretum: A beautiful campus with a variety of plant species, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere.
20. Orlando Wetlands Park: A nature reserve with walking trails, bird-watching, and opportunities to spot wildlife.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. There’s plenty to see and do in Orlando beyond the theme parks!