Story originally appeared on Westgate Resorts.
Orlando theme parks attract over 70 million visitors each year, but you definitely aren’t limited to Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld when you visit. There is so much more to see and discover in The City Beautiful!
Foodies will be delighted with all the amazing dining options, ranging from the best vegan food Orlando locals rave about to the top Italian restaurants in Orlando.
From unique dining experiences to day trips and excursions right outside the city, you can find incredible non-theme park activities to do solo, with a partner, or with kids in tow!
Favorite Things to Do in Orlando That Don’t Involve Theme Parks
Whether you enjoy photographic nature walks, scenic vistas, beautiful beaches, and more, you’ll be able to plan a great weekend or entire vacation around our list of the best non-theme park activities in Orlando.
And if you’re looking to beat the heat, we’ve rounded up plenty of indoor activities in Orlando to help you keep cool.
So, get ready to have fun and discover all this incredible city has to offer!
1 | Visit Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo | See a real rodeo, go glamping, and embrace the great outdoors at Westgate River Ranch! Just an hour and a half from Downtown Orlando, River Ranch offers a Western getaway on an authentic dude ranch.
WHERE: 3200 River Ranch Blvd, River Ranch, FL 33867 | WHO: (863) 692-1321
RELATED ARTICLES:
15 Top Rooftop Bars in Orlando to Get Your Drink On!
The 15 Best Bakeries in Orlando too Good to Keep Secret
20 Spots to Find the Best Burger in Orlando
2 | Enjoy a Beach Day at Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier | A historic landmark on Florida’s Space Coast, the world-famous Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier stretches 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and is home to restaurants, bars, gift shops, and live music.
The Pier offers beach rentals, freshwater showers, regulation beach volleyball courts, lifeguards year-round, and access to some of the absolute best surfing on the East Coast!
WHERE: 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321)783-7549
3 | Dive into a Water Park | Looking for water parks in Orlando? Shipwreck Island is an amazing two-level, pirate-themed water park in Kissimmee, located at Westgate Vacation Villas Resort.
Fun for all ages, Shipwreck Island Water Park features swimming pools, water slides, a pirate playground, a lazy river, hot tubs, and more! Day passes are available, so you don’t need to be staying at the resort to purchase tickets.
WHERE: 7700 Westgate Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34747 | WHO: (407) 239-0510
4 | Visit Orlando Science Center | The Science Center is one of Orlando’s top cultural attractions, featuring exciting, hands-on exhibits, shows, and events. All ages are welcome, and there is a kids’ zone designed to nurture the minds of little ones ages, 0-7.
WHERE: 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 514-2000
5 | Take an Airboat Tour | Marsh Landing Adventures offers guided airboat tours through the Florida Everglades. This is your chance to spot alligators, eagles, and turtles in their natural habitats!
WHERE: 2830 Neptune Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34744 | WHO: (407) 572-3561
6 | Ride the Swan Boats at Lake Eola Park | Lake Eola Park lets you rent swan-shaped paddle boats to enjoy the view of the fountain up close. You can find the rentals across the street from the Relax Grill on the west side of the park.
WHERE: 195 North Rosalind Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: (407)246-4484
7 | Shop at the Mall at Millenia | This high-end mall is one of the premier Orlando shopping destinations. With luxury boutiques and over 150 stores, enjoy dozens of designer offerings from the likes of Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Neiman Marcus.
WHERE: 4200 Conroy Rd, Orlando, FL 32839 | WHO: (407) 363-3555
8 | Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Orlando | Book a ride with Aerophile to see breathtaking landscapes from thousands of feet in the air. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Orlando, this takes the cake!
WHERE: 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 | WHO: (407)938-9433
9 | Explore International Drive | International Drive, or I-Drive, is a popular commercial district with dozens of restaurants and entertainment experiences for the whole family!
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for rooftop restaurants and bars in Orlando, I-Drive has great options like Tin Roof and Rocks Cocktail Bar.
WHERE: International Dr, Orlando, FL 32891 | WHO: N/A
10 | Explore the Orlando Museum of Art | Spend an afternoon taking in the exhibits at the Orlando Museum of Art!
Founded in 1924, Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) is Orlando’s flagship museum and a leading provider of visual art education and experiences in the Central Florida community.
WHERE: 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 896-4231
11 | Attend a Show at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts | Broadway shows, concerts, and other live events are always happening at this popular Orlando theater. From family-friendly plays to comedy shows, there is something for everyone.
WHERE: 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: (407) 358-6603
12 | Visit St. Augustine | St. Augustine is Florida’s oldest Spanish city, and it’s one of the best day trips from Orlando! The drive takes just an hour and 40 minutes each way.
The beautiful architecture, stunning coastal views, and interesting museums and historical sights make this a fantastic road trip adventure.
WHERE: St. Augustine, FL, 32080 | WHO: N/A
13 | Explore Winter Park | Winter Park is an artsy district filled with Old World charm, beautiful, tree-lined streets, and a wide variety of high-end shopping and dining experiences.
Spend an afternoon strolling and enjoying the natural charm of one of Central Florida’s oldest towns.
WHERE: Winter Park, Florida 3278 | WHO: N/A
14 | Play Golf at the Orange County National Golf Course | Golfers, you’re in for a treat. Orange County National Golf Course features a lodge, two championship courses, and a short nine-hole course with stunning views.
WHERE: 16301 Phil Ritson Way, Winter Garden, FL 34787 | WHO: (407) 656-2626
15 | Go Ziplining at Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park | Swing your way into action at this adventure park in Kissimmee, FL!
Ziplines, Tarzan swings, and suspended bridge nets will help you unleash your inner daredevil.
WHERE: 7625 Sinclair Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34747 | WHO: (407) 390-9999
16 | Discover Harry P. Leu Gardens | These lush tropical gardens were built in 1858 and offer a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
You can also tour the Harry P. Leu House Museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The best time to visit is June to August when the flora and fauna are thriving in the Orlando summer weather.
WHERE: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 246-2620
17 | Admire Wildlife at the Central Florida Zoo | If you’re looking for a fun way to spend the day, head to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens.
It takes approximately three hours to visit the zoo and see all of the wonderful animals and attractions. Learn about a variety of wildlife, participate in feedings, see live animal talks, and more!
WHERE: 3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771 | WHO: (407) 323-4450
18 | Go on an Underwater Adventure at SEA LIFE | Orlando SEA LIFE Aquarium gives you the chance to submerge yourself in amazing marine life encounters.
Tour the magnificent 360-degree ocean tunnel, meet a mermaid, and capture photos of beautiful fish, sea turtles, starfish, and more.
WHERE: 8449 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (855) 450-0680
19 | Kayak or Paddleboard on Shingle Creek | Rent your gear or sign up for an eco-tour on Shingle Creek with The Paddling Center. Explore a new side of Orlando as you float along the peaceful waters surrounded by thick forests.
WHERE: 4266 W. Vine St. Kissimmee, FL 34741 | WHO: (407) 343-7740
20 | Watch a Sports Game at the Kia Center | The Kia Center is the heart of Orlando’s sporting events.
This 20,000-seat indoor arena is home to the NBA’s Orlando Magic, the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL, and the National Arena League’s Orlando Predators.
WHERE: 400 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: (407) 440-7900
21 | Explore the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art | The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art opened in 1942 and holds the largest collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany works. Check out Friday nights at the Morse for free admission and live music from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
WHERE: 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: (407) 645-5311
22 | Visit Gatorland | Gatorland is a wildlife preserve and miniature adventure park with exciting shows, zip lining, rock climbing, off-roading, and more.
While the gators are the main stars, the park hosts a variety of other animals too, ranging from cute goats to tarantulas.
WHERE: 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837 | WHO: (407) 855-5496
23 | Take a Day Trip to Cocoa Beach | Orlando is one hour and six minutes from Cocoa Beach, the famous Florida town that is known as the gateway to the Kennedy Space Center.
Hit the beach, visit the Florida Surf Museum, or just enjoy exploring this quaint beach town.
WHERE: 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321) 783-7549
24 | Attend a Food and Wine Festival | Orlando hosts many unique food and wine events, ranging from the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival in October to the Winter Park Wind and Jazz Experience in late May.
There is always something exciting going on for food lovers and sommeliers.
WHERE: Orlando, FL | WHO: N/A
25 | Experience Orlando Nightlife in Thornton Park | Orlando’s Thornton Park is packed full of exciting nightclubs, lounges, and bars for you to live it up and enjoy live music, great drinks, and good vibes all around.
During the day, the neighborhood is a chic shopping district with interesting boutiques, stylish eateries, and organic juice bars.
WHERE: Thornton Park, Orlando, FL, 32801 | WHO: N/A
26 | Go Indoor Skydiving at iFLY Orlando | Have you ever wanted to go skydiving, but you can’t convince yourself that jumping out of an airplane is a good idea? We get it.
That’s why iFly Orlando is such a hit! Get all the thrills of a free fall in the safety of its state-of-the-art indoor skydiving turbine.
WHERE: 8969 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 337-4359
27 | Behold Curiosities at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! | Ripley’s Orlando is a crazy museum filled with oddities like legendary statues, a 3,197-pound meteorite, ancient alligators, a mesmerizing Vortex Tunnel, and so much more!
You have to see it to believe it. (Or not!)
WHERE: 8201 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 345-0501
28 | Eat at CityWalk | CityWalk is free to enter with parking free after 6 p.m., and features plenty of great Orlando restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Take a stroll at night and admire the lights and atmosphere.
WHERE: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
29 | See a Show at Orlando Shakes | To see or not to see, that is the question.
This popular theater puts on exciting plays for all ages. You can find a diverse selection of classic, contemporary, and kids’ plays on rotation throughout the year.
WHERE: 812 E Rollins St, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 447-1700
30 | Go Horseback Riding at AAA Equestrian | Climb onto a friendly horse and enjoy a guided tour with beautiful views of the Lake Jesup Conservation Area.
The Horse Experience is a special package that lets children brush, pet, saddle, and feed a horse for an hour. Group sessions and private rides are also available to make the most out of your journey.
WHERE: 1800 Gregory Rd, Orlando, FL 32825 | WHO: (321) 229-9857
31 | Attend a House of Blues Concert | Enjoy Southern food and blues music at this Disney Springs restaurant. The unique design and New Orleans twist make this lively joint a great spot for live entertainment in Orlando.
WHERE: 1490 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830 | WHO: (407) 934-2623
32 | Shop at Disney Springs | Disney Springs is a charming shopping district complete with a variety of stores, plenty of restaurants and dessert places, as well as plenty of family-friendly entertainment..
Be sure you don’t miss the summer drone light show with 800-lit drones illuminating the night sky!
WHERE: 1490 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830 | WHO: (407) 934-2623
33 | Ride the Orlando Eye | Enjoy some of the best views in Orlando from atop this 400-foot Ferris wheel in ICON Park.
Previously known as “The Wheel at ICON Park,” the Orlando Eye opened in 2015 and features incredible views of the city.
WHERE: ICON Park, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 601-7907
34 | Explore Orlando Wetlands Park | The vast Wetlands Park features picnic tables, hiking trails, and nature views that will instantly put you in relaxation mode.
Enjoy exploring 1,650 acres of wetland habitats and wildlife as you wander along well-kept trails that mark your path.
WHERE: 25155 Wheeler Rd, Christmas, FL 32709 | WHO: (407) 568-1706
35 | Tour the Loggerhead Distillery | Go on a tasting tour at this popular distillery and enjoy two complimentary cocktails as you learn all about its brewing processes.
The distillery is known for its moonshine, sweet tea vodka, and other craft spirits.
WHERE: 124 W 2nd St Sanford, FL 32771 | WHO: (321) 800-8566
36 | Visit the Rollins Museum of Art | The Rollins Museum of Art is located on the Rollins College campus and features a large collection of fine art that spans decades.
There are over 700 paintings dating back to the 14th century, along with thousands of prints, photographs, and three-dimensional modern art.
WHERE: 1000 Holt Ave Box 2765, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: (407) 646-2526
37 | Kick It at a Soccer Game | If your goal is a unique experience, then look no further! Right in the heart of Downtown Orlando, you can score tickets to a soccer game at the sprawling 25,000-seat INTER & Co Stadium.
Root for local teams that call the stadium home, including Orlando City SC, Orlando Pride, and Orlando City B.
WHERE: 655 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32805 | WHO: (407) 480-4702
38 | Discover History at the Titanic Artifact Exhibition | Explore real artifacts from the Titanic in an incredible show created by a team who have performed multiple dives into the real shipwreck.
There is an immersive replica deck with a shining night sky, but the real treat is attending the Titanic Dinner Gala, with actors playing Captain John Smith, Margaret “Molly” Brown, and other first-class passengers.
WHERE: 7324 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 248-1166
39 | Eat at the Orlando Food Truck Park | Street food has its own thriving scene in the city. This park is the first permanent food truck park in the country and features 60 of the best food trucks in Orlando to satisfy your cravings.
WHERE: 5805 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746 | WHO: (888) 279-8411
40 | Explore the Orange County Regional History Center | Within the heart of the bustling city of Orange County, locals and visitors can take a step back in time at the Orange County Regional History Center.
As you tour, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in interactive exhibits and admire artifacts created in a bygone era. For those who are interested in learning more about the history center’s exhibits, you can also listen to lectures during your tour and dive deeper into the county’s history.
WHERE: 65 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: (407) 836-8500
41 | Go on a Guided Bike Tour | Guided bike tours are one the best family activities in Orlando as you ride through the area while having a friendly guide show you the hidden wonders!
Celebration Bike Rental and Tours offers sightseeing opportunities for the whole family.
WHERE: 700 Bloom St, Kissimmee, FL 34747 | WHO: (407) 791-2822
42 | Explore the Florida Citrus Tower | Piercing the skies in the Clermont area of Orlando is the Florida Citrus Tower.
This 12-story tower offers locals and visitors a one-of-a-kind view of the surrounding area. As you step onto the observation deck, you’ll be met with a breathtaking panorama of Florida’s heartland.
WHERE: 141 S Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711 | WHO: (352) 394-4061
43 | Pick Fruit at Beck Brothers Citrus Inc. | Just 20 minutes from Orlando, Windermere is home to the Beck Brothers Citrus Farm. Visitor of all ages will have fun picking seasonal fruit under the Florida sun.
WHERE: 12500 Overstreet Rd, Windermere, FL 34786 | WHO: (407) 656-4353
44 | Go Bass Fishing on Lake Tohopekaliga | Lake Tohopekaliga is the perfect spot for sitting in the sunshine and catching your fair share of bass!
The lake is most popular for its trophy bass between December and April. However, the late fall months can also be an excellent time to reel in some winners.
WHERE: 69 Lakeview Dr. Kissimmee, Florida 34741 | WHO: (407)846-5191
45 | Go on an Orlando Ghost Tour | If you’re feeling spooky, book a ghost tour with American Ghost Adventures to discover the haunted history of Orlando.
You can feel the chill as you venture to Downtown Orlando while enjoying a cold drink during a haunted pub tour. Or, if you’re into true crime, you won’t want to miss the two-hour true crime ghost tour to unearth the shady past of Orlando.
WHERE: 12 South Ocean Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32118 | WHO: (386) 255-0415
46 | Relax at Daytona Beach | Whether you’ve had your fill of haunted delights or cycling around the bustling City of Orlando, you find yourself in need of a breather.
And what better way to kick back and relax than by visiting Daytona Beach?
This esteemed beach has sun-kissed shores that stretch for miles and a vibrant boardwalk filled with tons of fun activities, such as arcades and shopping for souvenirs.
WHERE: 12 South Ocean Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32118 | WHO: (386) 255-0415
47 | Visit Mead Botanical Gardens | If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando, you can find solace at Mead Botanical Gardens. Stroll through lush greenery and blooming flowers as you unwind from all the thrills.
One of the best attractions at Mead Botanical Gardens is the Butterfly Gardens. Visitors can walk through the winding paths as bountiful colors flutter by them.
WHERE: 1300 S Denning Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789 | WHO: (407) 622-6323
48 | Eat at Café Tu Tu Tango | At the heart of Orlando’s tourist district, Café Tu Tu Tango invites you to a fiesta for your senses.
Eat, drink, and be merry as you soak in unique art and enjoy music provided by salsa musicians.
WHERE: 8625 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 248-2222
49 | Crayola Experience | Got a knack for art? Then, unleash your inner artist at the Crayola Experience!
Here, visitors can bring their imaginations to life with Crayola’s near-limitless color options.
WHERE: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809 | WHO: (407) 757-1700
50 | Play with Science at WonderWorks | Who said you needed art to be a museum? WonderWorks Orlando takes a creative spin and uses the wonders of science to stoke your interests.
From laser tag to climbing a 350-foot-long simulated space shuttle station, WonderWorks has something fun for everyone.
WHERE: 9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 351-8800
51 | Wakeboard at the Orlando Watersports Complex | Carve up the waves in Orlando and bask in the blood-pumping experience of wakeboarding!
Expert instructors will guide you on the basics, so you can hit the water as soon as possible.
WHERE: 8615 Florida Rock Rd, Orlando, FL 3282 | WHO: (407) 251-3100
BONUS #1 | Skate at Orlando Skate Park | Skaters of all ages and skill levels are welcome at this skate park, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.
A daily pass costs $5 for skateboards, scooters, and all types of skates.
WHERE: 400 Festival Way, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 246-2800
BONUS #2 | Go on an Outdoor Adventure | Florida’s nature is a true marvel and Adventures in Florida offers kayaking and canoeing tours to help you see the best parts of Orlando and surrounding areas.
WHERE: 3208 E Colonial Dr #261, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 924-3375
