INTERESTING THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO BESIDES THEME PARKS

Beyond the enchanting realm of theme parks, Orlando unfolds a tapestry of diverse experiences waiting to be explored. Orlando, known as the theme park capital of the world, offers a variety of attractions beyond theme parks. Visitors can explore the Kennedy Space Center, experience ecotourism, visit Bok Tower Gardens, visit Old Town, take an airboat ride in the Florida Everglades, explore Orlando’s museums, enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Eola Park, and shop at popular malls and outlets. You can read further to get more information about the things to do in Orlando besides theme parks

Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Orlando, Florida, is known as the Theme Park Capital of the world, but there are plenty of other activities and attractions to enjoy in the city. There are lots of things to do in Orlando besides theme parks and some of them include

#1. Visit the Kennedy Space Center

Located in Cape Canaveral, less than an hour’s drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center offers an out-of-this-world adventure for space enthusiasts. Explore rockets, space shuttles, astronaut training, and even have a chance to meet a NASA astronaut.

#2. Experience Ecotourism Adventures

Orlando and its surrounding areas offer a range of outdoor activities and attractions. You can go ziplining, take airboat rides, have animal encounters, and more. There are also opportunities for golfing and other sports activities.

#3. Explore Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden and bird sanctuary located in Lake Wales, just outside of Orlando. It features a 205-foot-tall singing tower with carillon bells, as well as lush gardens and nature trails.

#4. Visit Old Town

Located in Kissimmee, Old Town is a kid-friendly district that will transport you back in time. It has more than 60 unique shops and restaurants, an 86-foot-high Ferris wheel, a family fun center, and hosts weekly car cruises.

#5. Take an Airboat Ride

Experience the thrill of gliding across the water on an airboat in the Florida Everglades. You can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife while enjoying the natural beauty of the wetlands.

#6. Explore Orlando’s museums

Orlando is home to several museums that offer a variety of cultural and educational experiences. Some notable museums include the Orlando Museum of Art, the Orlando Science Center, and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

#7. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Lake Eola Park

Located in downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is a scenic park with a beautiful lake. You can rent swan-shaped paddle boats, take a leisurely walk around the lake, or have a picnic in the park.

#8. Go Shopping

Orlando is a shopper’s paradise with numerous malls, outlets, and shopping districts. The Mall at Millenia and the Orlando International Premium Outlets are popular destinations for fashion and retail therapy.

#9. Experience Orlando’s Singing scene

Orlando offers a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of restaurants and eateries. From international cuisine to local favorites, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

#10. Enjoy Live Entertainment

Orlando has a vibrant entertainment scene with live shows, concerts, and performances. You can catch a dinner show, watch a Broadway-style musical, or attend a comedy show.

Free Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Orlando offers a variety of free activities and attractions that allow you to explore the city without breaking the bank. Whether you’re interested in exploring entertainment districts, enjoying nature, or immersing yourself in art and culture, there are plenty of options to make your visit to Orlando memorable without spending a fortune.

Lists Of The Top Free Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks

#1. Visit Disney Springs

Formerly known as Downtown Disney, Disney Springs is a vibrant entertainment district with shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. Explore the unique stores, enjoy street performances, and take in the lively atmosphere.

#2. Explore Universal CityWalk

Universal CityWalk is another lively entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. You can stroll through the area, enjoy live music, and soak in the energetic ambiance.

#3. Attend a Free Concert or Event

Orlando frequently hosts free concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year. Keep an eye on local event listings to discover opportunities to enjoy live music, cultural celebrations, and more.

#4. Visit the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts

Located in Eatonville, just outside of Orlando, the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts celebrates the life and work of author Zora Neale Hurston. Admission is free, and you can explore the exhibits and learn about her contributions to the arts and literature.

#5. Explore the Harry P. Leu Gardens

The Harry P. Leu Gardens is a stunning 50-acre botanical garden that offers free admission on select days. You can wander through the beautiful gardens, admire the diverse plant collections, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

#6. Experience the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art offers free admission on select days. It houses an extensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his famous stained glass pieces. Explore the museum and learn about the art and history of American craftsmanship.

#7. Visit the Orlando Farmers Market

The Orlando Farmers Market takes place every Sunday in downtown Orlando. You can browse through the stalls of local vendors, sample fresh produce, enjoy live music, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the market.

#8. Take a Stroll Along Park Avenue

Park Avenue is a charming street in Winter Park, just outside of Orlando. It is lined with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. You can take a leisurely walk, window shop, and soak in the ambiance of this upscale area.

#9. Explore the Cornell Fine Arts Museum

Located at Rollins College in Winter Park, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum offers free admission. It features a diverse collection of art, including European, American, and contemporary works. Take your time to appreciate the artwork and learn about different artistic styles.

#10. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs State Park, located just north of Orlando, offers free admission for pedestrians and cyclists. You can explore the park’s trails, have a picnic, swim in the natural springs, or rent a canoe or kayak to explore the waterways.

Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks For Adults

The activities in Orlando for adults besides theme parks offer a range of experiences for adults in Orlando, from thrilling adventures to cultural explorations and relaxation in nature.

The things to do in Orlando besides theme parks that are specifically geared toward adults include:

#1. Take an Everglades Airboat Tour

Experience the thrill of riding an airboat through the Florida Everglades and see alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

#2. Explore the Orlando Magic Theater

Enjoy a magical evening at the Orlando Magic Theater, where you can witness mind-bending illusions and magic shows that will leave you in awe.

#3. Go on a Nature Walk at Greenwood Urban Wetlands

Take a stroll along the boardwalk at Greenwood Urban Wetlands and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while observing various plant and animal species.

#4. Try Indoor Skydiving at IFLY Orlando

Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping out of a plane at iFLY Orlando, where you can enjoy the sensation of freefall in a safe and controlled environment.

#5. Challenge Yourself at Escapology

Test your problem-solving skills and teamwork at Escapology, an escape room experience where you have to solve puzzles and find clues to escape within a set time limit.

#6. Explore the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Dive into an underwater world of wonder at the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, where you can walk through themed habitats and observe a variety of marine creatures.

#7. Explore International Drive

International Drive, also known as I-Drive, is a bustling strip in Orlando with a variety of entertainment options. You can find restaurants, bars, clubs, shopping centers, and live entertainment venues along this vibrant stretch.

#8. Experience the Orlando Brewing Company

Take a tour of the Orlando Brewing Company, Florida’s only certified organic brewery. Learn about the brewing process, sample a variety of craft beers, and enjoy live music and events.

#9. Enjoy a Night Out at Church Street

Church Street is a historic street in downtown Orlando that offers a vibrant nightlife scene. From bars and clubs to live music venues and restaurants, Church Street is a popular destination for adults looking for a lively evening.

#10. Experience a Dinner Show

Orlando is known for its entertaining dinner shows. From interactive murder mysteries to medieval jousting tournaments, you can enjoy a unique dining experience while being entertained.

Best Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks

The best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks include taking an Everglades airboat tour, exploring the Orlando Magic Theater, visiting the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, experiencing indoor skydiving at iFLY Orlando, and exploring the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

The best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks offer a wide range of activities and experiences. Some options include:

#1. Magic shows

Experience the wonder of magic at venues like the Orlando Magic Theater, where you can enjoy mind-bending illusions and captivating performances.

#2. Shopping

Explore malls like the Florida Mall and the Mall at Millenia, which offer a variety of shops ranging from luxury brands to affordable fashion and tech stores.

#3. Aquariums

Dive into an underwater world at the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, where you can walk through themed habitats and observe marine creatures.

#4. Indoor Skydiving

Feel the thrill of skydiving at iFLY Orlando, where you can experience the sensation of freefalling in a safe and controlled environment.

#5. Escape Rooms

Challenge yourself at Escapology, where you can solve puzzles and find clues to escape within a set time limit.

#6. Art and Museums

Visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art or the Orlando Museum of Art to explore diverse collections of art and exhibitions.

#7. Outdoor Activities

Take an Everglades airboat tour, go on a scenic boat tour on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes, or enjoy nature walks at local parks like Greenwood Urban Wetlands.

#8. Nightlife

Enjoy a night out at Church Street or explore the vibrant nightlife scene on International Drive.

#9. Food Tours

Discover the culinary delights of Orlando by going on a food tour, where you can sample delicious dishes and learn about the city’s food scene.

#10. Other Attractions

Visit the Kennedy Space Center, explore the Harry P. Leu Gardens, try go-karting at Fun Spot Orlando, or learn wakeboarding.

Is It Worth Going To Orlando Without Disney?

Yes, it is worth going to Orlando without Disney. While Disney World is a major attraction in Orlando, numerous other activities and attractions make the city a worthwhile destination. There are many things to do in Orlando that don’t involve Disney or other amusement parks. These include visiting the Kennedy Space Center and exploring museums like the Orlando Museum of Art and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. Orlando offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors, catering to various interests and preferences. So, even without Disney, there are plenty of attractions and activities to make a trip to Orlando worthwhile.

How Many Attractions Are In Orlando?

There are more than 100 standalone attractions in Orlando beyond theme parks and water parks. These attractions offer a wide range of experiences, including rides, shows, character experiences, parades, water activities, and more. Additionally, there are specific attractions at popular destinations like SeaWorld Orlando, Disney World, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and Aquatica Orlando.

What Is The Famous Strip In Orlando?

The famous strip in Orlando is International Drive, also known as I-Drive. It is considered the city’s main tourist strip and serves a similar purpose to the Las Vegas Strip in Las Vegas. International Drive is a major 11.1-mile thoroughfare that is home to a wide range of attractions, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment options. It connects popular destinations like Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and Walt Disney World Resort, making it a central hub for visitors to explore.

What Parks Are In Orlando Besides Disney?

In addition to Disney theme parks, Orlando offers several other popular attractions. These include Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Gatorland, ICON Orlando, Orlando Science Center, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando, Madame Tussauds Orlando, and Orlando Museum of Art. Each of these attractions provides unique experiences and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Is Orlando Close To Miami?

Orlando is not very close to Miami, but they are both located in the state of Florida. The distance between Orlando and Miami is approximately 234 miles or 377 kilometers, when driving. The driving time between the two cities is typically around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. However, travel times may vary. If you prefer not to drive, there are also transportation options available, such as flights and trains

What Is Orlando Florida Most Known For?

Orlando, Florida, is most known for its world-class theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. The city also has a vibrant downtown area, International Drive, natural beauty, educational institutions like the University of Central Florida, and comprehensive healthcare facilities. Orlando is nicknamed “The City Beautiful” and is recognized for its sports teams, including the Orlando Magic. Overall, it is a popular destination for its attractions, entertainment, and diverse offerings.

Conclusion

Orlando offers numerous free activities that provide an opportunity to explore the city without breaking the bank, enjoy nature, and immerse oneself in art and culture. It offers a variety of activities beyond theme parks, including magic shows, shopping, aquariums, indoor skydiving, escape rooms, art museums, outdoor activities, nightlife, and food tours. Visitors can explore malls, aquariums, SEA LIFE Orlando, Escapology, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, and local parks. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene and sample delicious dishes.