When planning a family trip to Orlando, many parents immediately think of Disney’s iconic attractions. However, Orlando offers a huge number of activities beyond the Disney World parks that are perfect for families looking for fun and unique things to do.
Known as a top family-friendly destination, Orlando has attractions for kids of all ages, so every day is an adventure. From thrill rides and interactive educational centers to beautiful gardens and cultural sites, the city has endless opportunities for fun and learning.
This guide focuses on exploring Orlando’s non-Disney attractions, highlighting the unique experiences that await families who want to go beyond the usual Disney World theme parks. Whether you want to spark your child’s imagination or just spend quality time together, Orlando has something just for you!
Theme Parks
Orlando certainly has more to offer in the way of parks other than just Disney. There other options promise exciting experiences for families, each catering to different age groups and interests.
Here are some great alternatives to check out:
Universal Orlando Resort
If you have older kids who are into movies and love thrilling rides, Universal Orlando Resort is a must-visit.
This theme park brings famous films to life with attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park. You can walk down the magical streets of Hogsmeade, ride the Hogwarts Express, and even face off against dinosaurs on the Jurassic Park River Adventure.
Universal Studios is packed with roller coasters and interactive exhibits, making it perfect for those who crave high-energy fun.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
For families with younger children, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a fantastic option.
This LEGO-themed park has over 50 rides, shows, and attractions, plus a family-friendly water park. Kids can build their own LEGO creations hands-on and ride gentle rides suitable for little ones.
The resort also has themed accommodations, so families can stay and play longer while immersed in the LEGO world.
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is great for families who are interested in marine life and want a mix of education and entertainment.
The park features interactive exhibits, exciting rides, and tours that teach about ocean conservation. Younger kids will especially love the Sesame Street area, where they can meet their favorite characters and enjoy kid-sized rides.
SeaWorld offers a unique chance to learn about marine ecosystems while having fun as a family!
Water Parks
Orlando’s water and amusement parks are the perfect place for families to beat the heat and have some fun in the sun.
Aquatica by SeaWorld
Aquatica by SeaWorld is a lively water park with something for everyone. It features exciting water slides, splash areas, and relaxing cabana rentals. Families can enjoy wave pools, lazy rivers, and attractions that suit all ages.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, you can rent a private cabana for a comfortable spot to relax, complete with rental towels and a stocked refrigerator. Aquatica also mixes fun with learning by offering educational experiences about marine life. With ticket prices starting at $49.99, it’s an affordable place for families to make a splash.
Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove offers a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive experience where families can interact with dolphins and tropical fish in a beautiful tropical setting.
Guests can snorkel in The Grand Reef, swim with dolphins at Dolphin Lagoon, and enjoy the lush Explorer's Aviary. Everything you need for a day of adventure is provided, including meals, drinks, and snorkeling gear, making it a stress-free experience.
Discovery Cove is ideal for families looking for an educational water adventure. It offers plenty of opportunities to learn about marine life and conservation efforts in a hands-on environment.
Outdoor Adventures
Central Florida isn't just about theme parks—it's also a great place to see Florida's natural beauty and wildlife. Here are some outdoor adventures that provide a change of pace for families who want a day outside the Disney parks.
Airboat Tours
Airboat tours offer a thrilling way to experience Florida’s unique landscapes and diverse wildlife.
These tours take you through the Everglades or other wetlands on a high-speed airboat, allowing you to glide across the water and spot wildlife like alligators, birds, and other native animals in their natural habitats.
Popular places for airboat tours include Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures and Wild Florida Airboats. Tickets usually cost between $30 to $60 per person. The best time to go is during the cooler months, from November to April, as this is when the wildlife is most active.
Safari Parks
Orlando's safari parks give kids a chance to see exotic animals up close. Many of these parks offer drive-thru safaris, where families can watch animals like zebras, giraffes, and rhinos from the comfort of their own cars. Some parks also have interactive experiences, such as giraffe feeding and guided tours.
One great option is the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, which features a variety of animal encounters and educational programs. Safari parks are perfect for families who want to mix adventure with learning!
Educational Experiences
Orlando isn't just about fun—it's also a great place for families with curious minds. Here are two top spots where learning and entertainment go hand in hand.
Orlando Science Center
The Orlando Science Center is perfect for interactive learning. It offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs that keep visitors of all ages engaged.
One of the main attractions is the DinoDigs exhibit, where kids can learn about the prehistoric world and dinosaurs through dynamic displays. There’s also a space exploration area that sparks curiosity about the universe and encourages kids to explore the wonders of space.
The Science Center hosts workshops and activities tailored to different ages, making STEM education both fun and inspiring.
Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center provides an immersive look into the world of space exploration.
You’ll have fun with space-themed attractions and enjoy learning opportunities like guided tours of NASA’s facilities. There are also interactive simulators that let you experience what it’s like to travel in space.
A major highlight is meeting a veteran astronaut, offering a unique and memorable experience for young space enthusiasts. The Kennedy Space Center also offers educational programs such as Camp KSC, where students can participate in hands-on STEM activities.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers families an underwater adventure with its marine exhibits and interactive experiences. Visitors will see themed habitats that house a huge range of sea creatures, from majestic sharks to playful sea turtles.
The aquarium has a 360-degree ocean tunnel, so you can see marine life swimming above you. Educational talks and feeding demonstrations add to the experience and give insight into the ocean’s ecosystems and conservation efforts that are being made. It's a lot smaller than SeaWorld, which makes it a faster place to visit for learning about marine life in a fun and interactive way.
Unique Attractions
Orlando has some special places that offer fun and peaceful experiences for families, a change from the usual theme parks.
Crayola Experience
The Crayola Experience is a vibrant, colorful destination where younger kids can let their creativity shine. With over 26 hands-on attractions, children can dive into a world of color and imagination.
Some of the highlights include the Melt & Mold station, where kids can create their own crayon shapes, and Toddler Town, a special interactive play area designed for the youngest visitors. This attraction encourages kids to express themselves artistically while having fun in an interactive environment.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
If your family is looking for a peaceful escape, Harry P. Leu Gardens offers a beautiful, serene setting with nature trails and stunning gardens.
Covering nearly 50 acres, the gardens showcase a wide variety of plants, including roses, camellias, and tropical species. Families can take leisurely walks along scenic paths or join educational events and workshops. With its picturesque landscapes and calm atmosphere, Harry P. Leu Gardens is an ideal place for families to relax and connect with nature.
The Wheel at ICON Park
The Wheel at ICON Park, formerly known as the Orlando Eye, is a stunning 400-foot-tall observation wheel that offers breathtaking views of Orlando's skyline.
This iconic attraction provides a unique perspective of the city from up high. Each of the 30 air-conditioned capsules can accommodate up to 15 people, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for guests as they enjoy the panoramic vistas. The 20-minute ride is suitable for visitors of all ages.
Located in the heart of ICON Park, The Wheel is surrounded by a variety of dining and entertainment options so families can stay and play all day. Whether you’re taking in the amazing city view or catching a rocket launch from afar, The Wheel at ICON Park is an adventure your family won’t soon forget.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Orlando’s cultural and historical sites offer a chance to combine art, history, and education for families.
Orlando Museum of Art
The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) is a vibrant cultural center in Central Florida that features a wide variety of art exhibits and programs to engage visitors of all ages.
The museum hosts special exhibits showcasing both local and international artists, offering a diverse range of visual art experiences. OMA also runs youth art education programs, including classes and workshops that help kids develop creativity and critical thinking.
Family-friendly events like Art Adventures and Family Days provide interactive opportunities for children to develop their artistic talents and create their own masterpieces.
Orange County Regional History Center
The Orange County Regional History Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Central Florida. Located in a historic courthouse, the museum features four floors of exhibits covering 12,000 years of the region's history.
Visitors can view permanent and rotating exhibits on topics such as the Native American experience, the rise of theme parks, and Florida's natural environment. The History Center also offers educational programs, including school field trips and homeschool days, providing hands-on learning experiences for children.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition in Orlando offers a fascinating journey back to April 1912, allowing visitors to step aboard the ill-fated ship through a series of immersive exhibits.
The exhibition features over 300 authentic artifacts recovered from the Titanic, along with full-scale room recreations, such as the Grand Staircase and First Class Parlor Suite. Costumed actors bring the stories of passengers and crew to life.
Visitors can also participate in guided tours, which offer deeper insights into the ship's history and the recovery of its artifacts. This exhibition is a unique opportunity for families to learn about one of history's most famous maritime tragedies.
Local Parks and Recreation
Orlando’s local parks and recreation areas offer families a chance to unwind and enjoy the area's natural beauty. Here are two must-visit spots that offer a mix of outdoor activities and charming experiences.
Lake Eola Park
Located in downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is a popular spot for outdoor fun.
The park features a picturesque lake where families can rent swan-shaped paddle boats and enjoy exploring the water. You can also take a relaxing stroll along the scenic paths, soak in the views of the Orlando skyline, or have a picnic in one of the shaded areas.
Lake Eola Park is a lively place year-round, hosting concerts, festivals, and a weekly farmers market that draws both locals and tourists. The cooler months are the best time to visit, with ideal weather for outdoor activities.
Winter Park
Just north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park is a charming city known for its beautiful parks, boutique shops, and scenic boat tours.
Central Park, the city’s 11-acre green space, is the heart of the community, featuring lovely fountains and a rose garden perfect for a peaceful stroll. Along Park Avenue, you’ll find a variety of local shops and cafes offering a delightful mix of shopping and dining.
One of Winter Park’s highlights is the scenic boat tour, which takes visitors through the area’s chain of lakes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and historic homes.
Indoor Play and Entertainment
Orlando’s indoor attractions have got you covered for family fun - whatever the weather!
Madame Tussauds Orlando
Madame Tussauds Orlando is a must-visit for families who love celebrities and pop culture.
This attraction allows you to pose with lifelike wax figures of famous people, from movie stars to sports legends to historical icons. The experience is packed with photo opportunities, making it memorable for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re taking a selfie with a pop star or standing alongside a superhero, this attraction has something for everyone.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks is an interactive indoor amusement park that mixes education with entertainment.
Known for its iconic upside-down building, WonderWorks features over 100 hands-on exhibits that challenge the mind and spark curiosity. The park is divided into zones focused on space exploration, physical challenges, and natural disasters, providing educational fun for the whole family.
Kids can feel the power of a simulated earthquake, try lying on a bed of nails, or learn more about the wonders of space. WonderWorks is perfect for a day of learning and adventure.
Shows and Performances
Orlando is famous for its dinner shows that combine storytelling, fun performances, and delicious meals. Here are two top choices:
Medieval Times Dinner Show
Experience the excitement of knights, castles, and medieval adventure at the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.
This immersive show takes you back to the 11th century, where you’ll witness a grand tournament featuring jousting, sword fighting, and impressive displays of horsemanship. As you cheer for your favorite knight, you’ll be served a four-course feast with hearty portions, all enjoyed medieval style—no utensils required!
Pirates Dinner Adventure
Start a swashbuckling evening at the Pirates Dinner Adventure, a thrilling live show featuring pirates, acrobatics, and special effects.
The performance takes place on a replica 18th-century Spanish galleon set in a 300,000-gallon lagoon, creating an immersive setting for a high-seas adventure. As the pirate tale unfolds, you’ll enjoy a themed feast with hearty entrees and delightful desserts.
The show includes interactive elements that allow kids to join in on the action, making it an engaging experience for the entire family.
Shopping and Dining
Orlando's vibrant shopping and dining scene offers something for everyone. Here are three must-visit spots for a family vacation:
International Drive (I-Drive)
International Drive, commonly known as I-Drive, is a bustling hub packed with dining and shopping options.
Families can try restaurants offering everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to Mediterranean flavors. The area also features themed restaurants and dessert bars, creating a lively atmosphere for a memorable family outing.
Besides dining, I-Drive is home to numerous shops and attractions, making it a perfect spot for both fun and relaxation.
Disney Springs
Although part of the Disney World complex, Disney Springs offers a distinct shopping and dining experience that is distinct from the theme parks.
This open-air complex features a mix of boutiques, flagship stores, and specialty shops, perfect for a leisurely day of shopping. Dining options are abundant, with cuisines ranging from gourmet burgers to fine dining establishments.
Families can enjoy live entertainment and seasonal events, making Disney Springs a great destination for anyone looking to experience a different side of Disney magic.
The Mall at Millenia
For a more upscale experience, The Mall at Millenia is Orlando's premier luxury shopping destination. It features a range of high-end retailers like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, offering a sophisticated shopping environment.
In addition to luxury brands, the mall also has popular department stores such as Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, catering to a variety of shopping needs. After a day of shopping, families can unwind at one of the mall’s upscale restaurants or casual eateries.
Beyond the Mouse: Endless Possibilities
Orlando offers endless possibilities for family fun beyond the Walt Disney World parks.
Central Florida’s non-Disney attractions provide the perfect backdrop for creating lasting family memories. Whether it's the excitement of a safari park or the wonder of the Kennedy Space Center, these experiences are sure to spark joy and curiosity in your children.
Now that you've got some destination picked out, it's time to pack your bags and begin your adventure — there are so many Orlando attractions waiting to be explored!
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