If you think Orlando is just roller coasters and costumed mice, it’s time to think again. Whether you’re a local craving something fresh or a visitor looking to escape the theme park crowds, this interactive guide will help you discover the best things to do in Orlando beyond the theme parks.
With something for families, couples, nightlife lovers, and curious locals, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences waiting just outside the parks.
Use the Filters to Explore Orlando:
Just click on the categories below to jump to the activities that fit your vibe, and get ready to fall in love with a different side of the “City Beautiful”:
- For Families: Fun for All Ages
- For Couples: Romance & Date Nights
- For Nightlife Seekers: Bars, Clubs & Late-Night Fun
- For Locals and Everyone: Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
- Bonus Day Trips
For Families With Kids & Teens
Looking for a little friendly competition or a chance to get up close with some real Florida wildlife? These options are a hit for all ages!
PopStroke Mini Golf
- What It Is: A Tiger Woods–designed, elevated mini-golf experience with two 18-hole putting courses, full-service dining, ice cream parlor, playground, yard games, and in-course food/drink delivery via the app.
- 2 Locations: 321 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL & 5487 Hamilin Groves Trail, Winter Garden, FL
- What You Need to Know:
- Prices vary by day! Starting day passes (walk-up only; no reservations for groups under 12): adults $25, kids $16, seniors/military $20, college $25.
- Gameplay takes 45-60 minutes per 18-hole course; all-day play allowed. Putters and balls are included; app or paper scores available.
- Dress lightly; limited shade; bring sunscreen (fans/misters available). ADA accessible course available.
- Full bar, burger menu, ice cream, TVs; perfect for gatherings.
Wild Florida Adventure Park & Airboat Tours
- What it is: Wildlife, gator park, and airboat rides. Best for families and nature lovers wanting a comprehensive wildlife experience with a remote and less commercialized feel.
- Location: Kenansville, Fl, about an hour from Orlando
- What you need to know:
- Half-hour: approx. $36 adult / $32 child (includes Gator Park access)
- One-hour: $64 adult / $50 child (includes Gator Park access)
- Private tours and animal encounters available
- Chomp House Grill restaurant and gift shop.
Crayola Experience Orlando (Best for young children)
- What it is: Crayola Experience is where the magic of Crayola comes to life! With 70,000 square feet of attractions, Crayola Experience is Florida’s most colorful family destination for interactive, creative play!
- Location: 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, FL 32809
- What you need to know: Families typically spend 3-4 hours exploring 20+ hands-on attractions. Tickets: approx. $31 for 3+. Click for more info!
All Fired Up Pottery Studio
- What it is: Feeling creative?! This beautiful and inspiring studio will give you techniques that are so easy, anyone can create a masterpiece!
- Locations: 229 West Fairbanks Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789 & 709 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828
- What you need to know: All ages are welcome. Great for families, groups, and eve parties! You can even bring your own snacks or BYOB!
Escape Rooms (The Escape Game & Escapology)
- What It Is: Highly immersive, with diverse themed escape rooms—solve puzzles in under 60–90 minutes. Suitable for various ages.
- Locations:
- The Escape Game Orlando: 8145 International Dr SE Suite 511, Orlando, FL 32819
- Escapology: 11951 International Dr C3, Orlando, FL 32821
- What You Need to Know: Pricing generally $36–$45 depending on theme; fun for families and groups. Advance booking recommended. Always confirm age restrictions when booking, as some themes may be too intense for very young children.
Hollywood Drive-In Golf (Universal CityWalk)
- What It Is: 18- and 36-hole mini-golf with 2 courses to choose from: Sci-Fi and Classic Horror Themes.
- Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
- What You Need to Know: Located at Universal CityWalk you will have to pay to park $32. FREE PARKING AFTER 6:00pm. About $20 for 18 holes, $39 for 36. Glow in the dark and fun-fully immersive with lots of photo ops! Bonus: Spend the day at CityWalk, there’s also a movie theater, an escape room, and lots of restaurants and shopping!
Orlando Science Center
- What It Is: This science center is all about hands-on fun and discovery. While most traditional museums offer observational experiences, this science center encourages active participation and exploration!
- Location: 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803
- What You Need to Know: $22–$29 general admission tickets.
Hands-on exhibits like DinoDigs, KidsTown, and an observatory make this a top choice for educational fun. Perfect for rainy-day adventures. Click here for more Family Fun in Orlando.
Icon Park: The Wheel & Sea Life Aquarium
- What It Is: Entertainment complex with a 400-ft observation wheel overlooking the city.
- Location: 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
- What You Need to Know: Observation Wheel is $30 per person; FL resident rate $25, other attractions can be combined (Madame Tussauds & Sea Life Aquarium). Lots of dining and nightlife onsite!
Couples
Looking to spark a little magic? These romantic Orlando experiences go beyond dinner and a movie.
Steinmetz Hall and Judson’s Live at Dr. Phillips Center
- What It Is: Steinmetz Hall: A premier performing arts venue known for its exceptional acoustics. Judson’s Live: An intimate listening room with table style seating, craft cocktails and a curated menu with shareable plates and extensive wine list.
- Location: 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
- What You Need to Know: Ticket prices vary by event; check the official schedule for performances ranging from Broadway to classical music. Click here for events and tickets.
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
- What It Is: A tranquil, narrated boat ride through canals and under bridges in Winter Park.
- Location: Departs near Park Avenue (312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL).
- What You Need to Know: Tickets around $14–$20 per person. Great for photos and a peaceful date option. Click here for more information.
Wine Bar George Wine Tasting
- What It Is: Learn to taste wine like a professional with a “blind tasting” of 6 different wines that Master Sommelier George Miliotes has hand-selected. Available on select afternoons.
- Location: Disney Springs (Park at the Lime garage)
- What You Need to Know: 90 minute event that includes wine, cheese and charcuterie. Tickets around $137 per person, this includes gratuity! Great experience and a peaceful date option. Click here for more information.
My Beer Spa
- What It Is: A unique, private spa experience where couples relax in warm beer baths made from hops, malt, and yeast while sipping unlimited craft beer and cider from self-serve taps in their room. Perfect for an indulgent and playful date.
- Location: 11787 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
- What You Need to Know: Packages start at around $189 per couple for a 60-minute session. Must be 21+ to drink alcohol. Reservations recommended, especially on weekends. Guests can enjoy saunas and relaxation areas after their soak. See my experience at this unique place!
Truffles and Trifles Cooking School
Location: 933 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
- What It Is: A hands-on cooking class with classically trained chefs. Learn to prepare a delicious meal from scratch together.
- Location: 933 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
- What You Need to Know: This is a culinary institution~38 years later this is the largest and most successful cooking school in the Southeast! Various types of cooking classes with different price points. Check classes here.
Nightlife Seekers
Late-night fun that isn’t just clubs. Here’s how to enjoy Orlando after dark.
SAK Comedy Lab
- What It Is: Since 1991, this professional ensemble of improv actors has entertained audiences with their unique brand of live improvised comedy.
- Location: 55 West Church Street, Suite 211, Orlando, FL 32801
- What You Need to Know: Generally Friday and Saturday shows~some Wednesday and Thursdays~Click for schedule and tickets. Keep an eye out for their free improv classes….who knows?…maybe you’ll be the next Wayne Brady. (He worked there!)
Wall Street Plaza
- What It Is: A lively block in downtown Orlando with 8 venues ~ featuring entertainment, music, food, and cocktails. It transforms into a block party on Friday/Saturday nights with live music and open doors.
- Location: 25 Wall St, Orlando, FL 32801
- What You Need to Know: Strictly 21+ after 10pm. Best for adults wanting a high-energy social experience. Click to see special and weekly events.
Player 1 Video Game Bar
- What It Is: A barcade with retro and modern video games, craft beers, and a fun 21+ crowd.
- Location: 8562 Palm Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32836
- What You Need to Know: $5 cover, games included; drinks extra. Hours: 4 p.m.–2 a.m. weekdays, 12 p.m.–2 a.m. weekends. Bring your ID ~ after 8pm is strictly 21+. Click for more info.
Orlando’s Secret Speakeasies
- What It Is: Hidden entrances, delicious cocktails, and mood lighting galore!
- Location: Various locations in and around Orlando
- What You Need to Know: Check out my full guide to Orlando’s Best Secret Bars!
Locals & Everyone
Want to explore your own city like a tourist? These under-the-radar spots are local favorites.
Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures
- What it is: A true Florida classic! Hop on an airboat and glide across the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. You’ll see alligators, birds, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat, all while a knowledgeable captain gives you the scoop.
- Location: 2001 E Southport Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34746
- What you need to know: They have different tour lengths, including sunset and night tours. ($32-$85) The facility also has a butterfly garden, a gem mine, and a great BBQ restaurant, making it an easy all-day outing!
Underground Game Show
- What It Is: Live, interactive game-show in a themed speakeasy—think trivia plus physical challenges!
- Location: 5400 International Dr Suite B, Orlando, FL 32819
- What You Need to Know: $37.99 per person; great for groups, couples looking for something different and playful. Beer and wine are available before the show. No food. Accommodates 2-12 people per show and you may be combined with other players if your group is less than 12 people. Book in advance ~ although they do take walk-ups when available. (Note children 8+ are welcome).
Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park
- What It Is: Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park is a progressively challenging aerial obstacle course set high atop the trees in a natural pine forest, each one more exhilarating than the last.
- Location: 7625 Sinclair Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34747
- What You Need to Know: Cost: $60 adults, $47 juniors (ages 9–11), $35 kids course (ages 6–8) Height/weight restrictions: Minimum height 4’7” for adult/junior courses, weight limit 275 lbs. Hours: Vary seasonally; click for tickets. Tip: Wear athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes.
East End Market
- What It Is: Find local vendors, famous cookies, indie food stalls, craft coffee, shopping, and even cocktails.
- Location: 3201 Corrine Drive Orlando, FL 32803
- What You Need to Know: This neighborhood market and culinary food hub should not be missed. This is a true gem and is full of local makers, artists, and chefs! Home to the famous (and first) Gideon’s Bakehouse. Open daily but individual merchant hours may vary.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition & Gala Dinner Experience
- What It Is: An immersive museum with full-scale rooms and 300+ artifacts from the RMS Titanic. Step aboard the Titanic for a Gala Dinner and be a participant in one of the most famous dinner parties as you enjoy an unforgettable meal!
- Location: 7324 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
- What You Need to Know: Dinner Tickets: adults ~ $84, children ~ $63. Museum only tickets: adults ~ $36, ~ children $30, Floridian & military discounts available.
Neighborhood Explorations: Winter Park, Mills 50, Thornton Park
- What It Is: Walkable neighborhoods full of murals, cafés, boutiques, and local flavor.
- Locations: Respective districts
- What You Need to Know: Free to explore. Ideal for brunch, coffee, and casual strolling experiences. Click here for my favorite Mills 50 spots!
Otter Paddle Orlando
- What It Is: Experience the perfect blend of nature, service, and unforgettable moments — all crafted by a team who cares about every paddle stroke. Manatee, dolphin, and bioluminescence tours available!
- Location: Various tour locations across central Florida.
- What You Need to Know: These guided tours are perfect for beginners, couples, families, and nature lovers. Free photo and video package included with every tour. Click to see all tours available!
Blue Spring State Park
- What It Is: A state park known for manatee sightings and crystal-clear swimming areas.
- Location: 2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
- What You Need to Know: $6 per vehicle; best in winter when manatees gather; busy holidays—arrive early.
Bonus: Day Trips Worth the Drive
Giraffe Ranch in Dade City, FL
Distance: ~1.5 hour
Looking for a Unique Animal Encounter in Florida? Get up close and personal with giraffes and other animals on this safari vehicle tour! Get the details.
Crystal River
Distance: ~1.5 hours
Swim with manatees (best Nov–March), kayak, or relax in the springs. Nowhere else will you find more manatees than in Crystal River, Homosassa, and the waters of Florida’s Citrus County. Click for tours.
Mount Dora
Distance: ~45 mins
This charming lakeside town is the perfect day trip. Browse antique shops, sip wine by the lake, or catch a seasonal festival. While you’re there grab lunch at 1921 Mount Dora!
Final Planning Tips
- Check Groupon or websites for activity discounts!
- Weekdays and mornings are best for avoiding crowds.
- Downtown areas may have paid or limited parking—use SunRail or Uber if unsure.
- Don’t forget sunscreen—even if you’re not at a theme park!
Pin This for Later or Share With Your Crew
Found something you want to try? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram at @FlamingoInFantasyland when you go!
Thanks for reading!
Xx Autumn
