As the home of twirling teacups, colorful cartoon characters, fantastical worlds, and enchanting castles, it’s no surprise that Orlando – dubbed the “Theme Park Capital of the World” – is at the top of every kid’s bucket list. It’s true that the Mickey Mouse metropolis has no shortage of child-friendly attractions and activities, but why should kids get to have all the fun? From relaxing things to do in Orlando and karaoke bars in Orlando, adult-centric activities and attractions are abundant!
Adult Things to do in Orlando
Topping the charts as the country’s “Most Visited Place,” Orlando delighted 75 million visitors last year, proving that the theme park mecca is a favorite among young and old alike.
Once you look past the palaces and princesses, Orlando offers plenty of possibilities for adults (or kids-at-heart) to experience, explore, and stay entertained.
To inspire the itinerary for your next trip to the city, here are ten fun things to do in Orlando for grown-ups:
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1 | Escape the Muggle World & Unleash Your Inner Wizard
Muggles who spent their childhood waiting on an owl-delivered Hogwarts acceptance letter will relish the opportunity to be immersed into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort. J.K. Rowling’s fantastical world is brought to life for an enchanting experience that spans across both Universal Parks – Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios – connected by a train ride aboard none other than the Hogwarts Express. Soar above the majestic castle grounds, stroll the streets of Hogsmeade Village, and peruse High Street’s enchanted shops where you can load up on magical sweets at Honeydukes. Hogwarts’ beloved gamekeeper will send you deep into the Forbidden Forest for encounters with magical creatures in the all-new Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure “story coaster.” Be sure to stop by Hog’s Head and Three Broomsticks, where witches and wizards gather for Pumpkin Juice and Butterbeer. Mischief managed!
WHERE: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: 407-363-8000
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2 | Discover Local Craft Beer on the Central Florida Ale Trail
Thirsty for a hoppy experience at some of Orlando’s top breweries? The Hop On! beer tour takes beer enthusiasts on guided brewery tours by bus to explore what’s fermenting in Orlando and beyond. Central Florida’s rapidly growing craft beer scene, known as the Central Florida Ale Trail, offers some of the best brews in the Sunshine State. In addition to getting stamps on your Central Florida Ale Trail map, each tour offers the opportunity to learn about the brewing process, sample local beer, and enjoy games, music, and trivia. Hop On! offers five different tours to choose from, each of which includes stops at three unique breweries and lasts approximately four hours. Feeling extra ambitious? Consider booking back-to-back tours. If you visit all 28 breweries, you’ll receive a commemorative growler! Beer lovers, rejoice.
WHERE: 300 N New York Ave, #2134 Winter Park, FL 32792 | WHO: 407-724-3759
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3 | Wander Through Winter Park
Winter Park is home to an idyllic downtown chock full of charming details that are sure to delight. Hidden gardens and shaded side streets offer one-of-a-kind boutiques and locally owned shops, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants. Nearby museums showcase world-renowned art collections, and a farmers’ market attracts locals and visitors alike each Saturday morning. Park Avenue, often called “Little Europe,” offers more than 40 eateries to satisfy all kinds of cravings, including everything from gelato to award-winning fine dining. Prato, a popular pick for date night, features handcrafted and year-round alfresco dining. The Wine Room is a unique wine retail concept with a revolutionary wine dispenser offering tastes of nearly 150 wines of the world. For an extra special experience, consider arriving in Winter Park by boat. A relaxing, one-hour scenic boat tour (just $14 per adult) cruises the canals of historic Winter Park, showcasing the area’s exquisite estates and shoreline landmarks – and docks just a five-minute stroll from the heart of downtown.
WHERE: 312 East Morse Blvd. Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: 407-644-4056
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4 | Party and Play at ICON Park
In terms of International Drive attractions, ICON Park, a 20-acre, walkable entertainment hub in the heart of Orlando’s renowned travel district, is an adult-friendly destination with plenty to see and do. Ride the iconic Wheel, Orlando’s can’t-be-missed observation wheel, which towers 400 feet above the city. The climate-controlled capsules offer a comfortable and relaxing setting so you can sip a glass of wine while savoring some of Central Florida’s most spectacular views throughout the 23-minute rotation. Afterward, explore more than 40 tasty restaurants, funky bars, shops, and fun attractions – like Madame Tussauds Orlando and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. When the sun goes down, head to Tin Roof to dance along to favorite hits performed nightly by lively bands, or to Tapa Toro tapas bar and restaurant to scope out the live Flamenco dancers.
WHERE: 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: 407-601-7907
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5 | Swing into Friendly Competition at Topgolf or DriveShack
Whether an avid golfer or an absolute amateur, you’ll have a blast at one of Orlando’s golf-themed entertainment venues that offer an all-new take on the game for all skill levels. Just 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport, Drive Shack Orlando offers fun games like ShackJack (a spin on the classic card game), or Monster Hunt, where the player is on a quest to save a princess, destroying monsters along the way. Topgolf Orlando, adjacent to the Orange County Convention Center in the International Drive area also features a fun take on golfing that uses a scoring system similar to that of darts or bowling. As an added bonus, both venues offer impressive food and drink menus.
WHERE: 7285 Corner Dr. Orlando, FL 3282 | WHO: 407-553-8820
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6 | See Animation and Acrobatics Collide at Cirque du Soleil’s Newest Show
Watch in wonder as the first-ever collaboration between Walk Disney Animation Studios and Cirque du Soleil, Drawn to Life, takes the stage. Inspired by the magic of Disney’s artistic animation, the audience journeys into a world where an animator’s desk becomes the stage and the Disney drawings and stories come alive through acrobatic performances and musical masterpieces. When a courageous girl discovers that her father has left her an unexpected gift – an unfinished animation piece – she embarks on an inspiring adventure accentuated by her childhood memories of Disney. The show pairs Disney’s magic of storytelling with the mesmerizing acrobatic mastery and original choreography that Cirque du Soleil is famous for. It’s a whimsical, “wow” worthy production that is sure to impress.
WHERE: 1478 Buena Vista Dr Lake Buena Vista, FL32836 | WHO: 407-934-9200
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7 | Drink Your Way Around the World at Epcot
We’ve all heard of the vaunted Disney Springs bar crawl, but have you ever had a cocktail at every country in the world? Often thought of as the most adult-centric of the Walt Disney World theme parks, Epcot offers exciting attractions, international pavilions, award-winning fireworks and seasonal events, all with a dash of education. The World Showcase, which consists of 11 pavilions representing countries from around the world, is especially appealing for adult travelers thanks to its plentiful bars, entertainment, and festivals. “Drinking Around the World” is a particularly popular (unofficial) attraction amongst the 21+ crowd. Visitors make their way around the World Showcase, stopping for snacks and drinks in each country. Celebrate Oktoberfest all year long at the Biergarten Restaurant, a boisterous German buffet, feasting on Bavarian fare and beer to the beat of a lively band. In France, snap a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower and be transported to the City of Love with an Ice Cream Martini from L’Artisan des Glaces featuring two scoops of ice cream with a shot of Grand Marnier, whipped cream vodka, or rum. C’est délicieux!
WHERE: 200 Epcot Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32830 | WHO: 407-939-5277
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8 | Embark on a Giraffe Safari Expedition or Llama Trek
While not technically in Orlando (it’s about an hour away), Giraffe Ranch is worth the drive for the chance to scope out giraffes and other species from around the world living in 47-acres of rolling countryside and open grasslands dotted with sprawling live oaks and native orchids. Not to be mistaken for a zoo, Giraffe Ranch is a real working game farm and wildlife preserve where zebra, ostrich, warthog, pygmy hippopotamus, rhinoceros have room to roam. Embark on an intimate safari expedition, feed a giraffe, take a Segway Safari, or venture out on a Llama Trek – whichever experience you choose, it’s sure to make for a memorable experience.
WHERE: 38650 Mickler Rd, Dade City, FL 33523 | WHO: 813-482-3400
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9 | Hand Make Chocolate Confections
Looking for the best desserts in Orlando? Channel your inner Willy Wonka. Orlando is home to Farris & Foster’s famous chocolate factory, which hosts weekly date night events that encourage couples to become chocolatiers. During the workshop, you’ll learn about the chocolate-making process and whip up delightful treats – like truffles or peanut butter cups – all while sipping from a bottle of BYO wine. You’ll bring home a pound of handmade chocolate confections which, at just $34 per couple, is a pretty sweet deal (pun intended!).
WHERE: 875 New Broad St, Orlando, FL 32814 | WHO: 407-770-1607
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10 | Come Nose to Bottlenose, Swimming with Dolphins
Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort that treats guests to up close and personal encounters with marine life. Enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming with bottlenose dolphins, snorkel among thousands of colorful fish and rays, meet playful otters, and hand-feed exotic birds. Set in a tropically-inspired paradise of rocky lagoons, reefs, lush landscaping, and white-sand beaches, the day-package includes wetsuits and snorkel gear along with fresh meals, snacks, and beverages.
WHERE: 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821 | WHO: 407-513-4600
