Welcome to the Best of Orlando: Your Guide to Things To Do In Orlando

Welcome to Flamingo In Fantasyland, your home for all “Things to do in Orlando”. Whether you’re a first-time visitor trying to navigate the Disney wilderness, a seasoned traveler looking for the best secret bars, or a local hunting for a new brunch spot, you’ve landed in the right place.

We feature all the best the City Beautiful has to offer. From planning the best Disney vacation on a budget to dining at the local’s favorite spots, we’re here to help you with your next Orlando adventure!

Don’t miss out on all the amazing things to do in Orlando! Orlando is so much more than a cluster of theme parks. It’s a city of hidden speakeasies, unique attractions, historic charm, world-class dining, sporting events, and natural springs and parks. It’s no wonder over 75 million people visit Orlando annually!

It’s a lot to see and do. And even if you’ve lived here all your life you might still be missing out on some of these experiences! But don’t worry, I’m here to break it all down for you. I’ll put it all together so you can start planning some adventures.

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Orlando is the “theme park capital of the world”. We have 10 major theme parks and several large water parks. All fabulous in their own right. On average, roughly 200,000 people are visiting an Orlando theme park on any given day. There is something here for everyone who loves theme parks. And here is how to conquer the parks like a pro!

From the nostalgic streets of Magic Kingdom, the global flavors of EPCOT, the movies of Hollywood Studios, and the animals of Animal Kingdom, Disney World is a beast to plan. With 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and an abundance of resorts…the Mouse has a lot of ground to cover! It’s no wonder we receive almost 18 million guests every year to the “Happiest Place on Earth”.

• Planning 101: Check out our Ultimate Walt Disney World Guide 2026 to get your roadmap started.
• Where to Stay: Don’t book until you read our breakdown of the Best Disney World Resorts for Every Budget.
• EPCOT Foodies: You can’t miss our Complete Guide to EPCOT Festivals.
• Water Parks: Making the most of a Disney World Water Park day.

This theme park powerhouse certainly brings the thrills. Do you have bored teenagers? Universal Orlando Resort has something they’ll love. Lots of coasters and a bit more adventurous feel. Universal is definitely the edgy and bolder sibling to Disney. I honestly love both resorts….it just depends on my mood!

Universal Studios brings old and new Hollywood to Orlando. And Islands of Adventure brings several enchanting worlds, from Jurassic Park to Harry Potter, you and your kiddos will have a blast. Volcano Bay will keep you cool in the hot summer. And with the recent opening of Epic Universe, Universal has officially changed the game. This theme park is causing a lot of buzz (good and bad)!

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• Epic Universe: Get the full scoop on Universal’s Newest Theme Park here!
• Water Park Vibes: Is Universal’s Volcano Bay really the best water park in Orlando?

Looking for a chill park? SeaWorld is the place. Lots of lush scenery, generally less crowded, and beautiful animals. It’s a lovely day. SeaWorld also has a water park, Aquatica, one of my favorites!

And If you want to get up close with marine life or spend a day in an all-inclusive tropical oasis, Discovery Cove should be at the top of your bucket list. Read my experience here. They don’t have rides unless you count riding a dolphin!

4. LEGOLAND Park & Peppa Pig Theme Park

The perfect parks for your littles. LEGOLAND was always a favorite when my son was young. Located in Winter Haven about an hour from Orlando, this resort has the new Peppa Pig theme park, a water park, and hotel on the premises. This would make for a fun weekend getaway to take the kids or grandkids.

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(My favorite things to do in Orlando)

Orlando’s food scene is exploding. In fact, Orlando was voted #4 “Best of the Best” U.S. destination for food, according to TripAdvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards. (Behind NYC, Las Vegas & Maui!) With its diverse culinary scene and multi Michelin recognized spots you are sure to never eat a boring meal!

Skip the chains on I-Drive and eat where the locals eat. We’ve curated a list of 12 Restaurants Locals Love that will change your perspective on Orlando dining.

If you like your craft cocktails (I sure do!) or cocktails with a side of mystery, you’re in the right city. Orlando has a thriving bar scene! From chic beautiful spaces to dive bars, there is a cool spot to wet your whistle.

• Check out our guide to the 7 Best Secret Bars in Orlando.
• Venture into the Milk District for a rum oasis at Otto’s High Dive.

Start your morning right at one of our 7 Delightful Brunch Spots or grab a caffeinated kick at our ever-expanding list of Top Coffee Shops!

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There’s so many things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks. So if you need a break from the crowds and the concrete, Orlando and the surrounding areas are full of natural beauty and even some unique attractions!

• Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour: A local and historic classic. See the gorgeous chain of lakes and historic mansions.
• Natural Springs: Take a day trip to Devil’s Den for a prehistoric snorkeling experience.
• Giraffe Ranch: For a “closeup” safari adventure, it’s just a short drive from Orlando.
• Gatorland: Known as the “alligator capitol of the world”. It’s a classic and somewhat affordable (keep an eye out for discounts). They even have a zipline that goes over an alligator pit!!

From the Orlando Beer Spa (yes, you can literally soak in beer!) to high flying experiences like iFly Indoor Skydiving, there is always something wild and wonderful to do here.

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If you want some things to do in Orlando all in one place, head to these districts for dining, shopping, and entertainment:

• Pointe Orlando: Check out our 2026 Guide to Pointe Orlando for what’s new and upcoming. PAY PARKING
• Disney Springs: The Ultimate spot for a non-park day. Check out our Best Restaurants in Disney Springs guide before you go! FREE PARKING
• City Walk: Located at Universal Studios Resort. PAY PARKING (This is also where you park to visit theme parks, except EPIC)
• Icon Park: The Big Wheel, Madame Tussaud’s, restaurants, and more…..lots more! FREE PARKING

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If you really want to feel like a local, you have to get out of the “tourist bubble” and explore the unique districts that give Orlando its soul. Each neighborhood has its own personality, from upscale cobblestone streets to edgy, mural-filled arts districts.

Here’s the lowdown on the neighborhoods you shouldn’t miss:

Winter Park: The “Park Avenue” Experience

Think of this as the Beverly Hills of Orlando, but with much more charm. It’s famous for Park Avenue, a stunning stretch of brick-lined streets packed with high-end boutiques and sidewalk cafes.

• Don’t Miss: The Scenic Boat Tour, which takes you through narrow canals and past massive lakefront mansions. It’s the most relaxing hour you’ll spend in the city.

Mills 50: Foodie & Street Art Heaven

Located at the intersection of Mills Ave and Colonial Dr, this is Orlando’s most eclectic and “Instagrammable” spot. It’s the heart of our vibrant Asian community, meaning you’ll find the best phở and banh mi of your life here.

• Don’t Miss: The colorful murals on every corner and the legendary Will’s Pub for live indie music. If you’re hungry, grab tacos at Black Rooster Taqueria—trust me. It’s also home to some of my favorite bars, check these hot spots!

Thornton Park: The Downtown “Grown-Up” District

Just a few blocks from the skyscrapers of downtown, Thornton Park is super walkable and feels like a European village. It’s right next to Lake Eola, making it the perfect spot for a Sunday brunch.

• Don’t Miss: The 2nd Thursday Wine & Art Walk. It’s a huge local favorite where you can sip wine and browse local art while wandering the neighborhood.

The Milk District: Edgy & Creative

Named after the local T.G. Lee Dairy plant, this neighborhood is the hub for Orlando’s underground music, dive bars, and vintage shops. It’s got a gritty, creative energy that’s totally unique.

• Don’t Miss: Tasty Takeover every Tuesday night. It’s a massive food truck block party behind the local bars—great vibes and even better food.

College Park: Small-Town Vibes

Located just north of downtown, all the streets here are named after famous universities (hence the name!). It’s got a cozy, “Main Street USA” feel with a lot of independent shops and long-standing local restaurants.

• Don’t Miss: Edgewater Drive, the main strip where you can find great antique stores and the best milkshakes in town at the Soda Fountain.

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If you’re looking to dodge the theme park crowds but still want that high-energy Orlando vibe, you’re in luck! There is so much to do here that doesn’t involve waiting in a four-hour line for a coaster. You can start your day catching some serious air at iFly Indoor Skydiving, where you get the rush of a freefall without having to actually jump out of a plane.

If you’re looking for a night out with a bit of a “throwback” twist, you definitely have to check out the classic jousting and feasting at Medieval Times or head over to Pirates Dinner Adventure for some swashbuckling stunts and a massive pirate ship right in the middle of the theater. Bring your sense of humor and adventure…your kids will love it, and you might too!!

here are a few more unique gems for your itinerary:

• The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: This is Orlando’s best-kept secret for a laugh. It’s super high-energy, totally interactive, and—best of all—includes unlimited pizza and wine.
• Dezerland Park: Imagine a massive indoor playground that’s home to one of the world’s largest car collections, plus indoor go-karting, bowling, and a huge pinball arcade. It’s the perfect place to burn off some energy if the Florida rain kicks in.
• Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows: We had so much fun doing this, so if you fancy yourself a bit of a detective, this is a blast. You get to solve a “murder” while enjoying a good meal, and the actors are great at keeping everyone involved.
• The Orlando Beer Spa: For something totally different (and a bit more relaxing), you can literally soak in a tub of hops and barley while pouring your own craft beer from a tap right next to the tub. It’s quirky, relaxing, and very “Orlando.”
• Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition: This isn’t just a museum; it’s an immersive walk-through where you get assigned a passenger’s name and see if you “survived” the journey while walking through full-scale recreations of the ship’s grand staircase. If you are interested in history, this was a 10/10 experience for me. We did the full experience: dinner and show. Click for tickets and more info.

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• Budgeting: Think Orlando is too expensive? Want to know what FREE things to do in Orlando? Read our 10 Budget-Friendly Things To Do.
• Non-Park Disney Days: You don’t need a ticket to have a magical time. Here is how to spend a Perfect Disney Non-Park Day!
• Pack Smart: Visiting Disney World? You need to be prepared, here’s your complete packing list.

To maximize your time in the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” planning is no longer just a suggestion—it’s a survival skill. Be sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date, get more planning tips, and never be the last to know about the hottest new restaurant or bar!

Looking for more things to do in Orlando? Orlando is constantly changing, and we are here to document every new opening and hidden gem. Browse our latest posts here and follow us on Instagram.

Thanks for reading!