Best Things To Do in Orlando

Orlando is one of the most important cities in Florida and, also, the epicentre of fun in the southwest of the United States, thanks to the amusement parks and entertainment it offers. Here are the best options for your trip.

Matías Rodríguez

Matías Rodríguez

10 min read

Best Things To Do in Orlando

Turistas en Orlando|©Brenda Santos

Whether you plan to vacation in Orlando or visit the city for just a few days from Miami or elsewhere in Florida, Orlando has many options to offer you, especially in its extensive entertainment circuit that includes amusement parks, themed activities and even a river that you can discover on a kayak tour, or through fun water adventures.

Some of the best things to do in Orlando include visiting Universal Studios amusement park, touring Wild Florida on a safari tour, seeing the city on a fun guided tour, touring the water parks, visiting Magic Kingdom, discovering the Econlockhatchee River and visiting Madame Tussauds wax museum. There's plenty of fun to be had in the city!

1. Visit Universal Studios amusement park

Universal Studios, Orlando, USA|©Rubem Porto Jr
Universal Studios, Orlando, USA|©Rubem Porto Jr

Universal Studios is, along with Magic Kingdom, the most famous theme park in the world, especially for its movie-inspired rides and iconic pop culture characters, making it a must-see. It is also very easy to access, as you can get there by public transport, by car or even by shuttle from Orlando airport.

When you enter the park you will be immersed in a magical world where you can explore the Harry Potter universe, walk through the streets of Springfield from The Simpsons, enter the terrifying setting of Jurassic Park and much more. Each area is designed to provide you with an immersive experience and transport you to cinematic settings, making it one of the best theme parks in Orlando.

Universal Studios attractions are renowned for their innovation and quality. You can enjoy spooky roller coasters, state-of-the-art simulators, live shows and encounters with characters from your favourite films. In any case, it's one of the city's must-see attractions, even if you only plan to visit Orlando in 5 days or less.

Visiting Universal Studios theme park in Orlando is an experience that combines the magic of the movies with the adrenaline of the rides. Whether you're a movie fanatic or just looking for a fun-filled day, this theme park guarantees unforgettable moments and lasting memories.

Book tickets for Universal Studios Orlando

2. Tour Wild Florida on a safari tour

Elephant by the water|©trisgti
Elephant by the water|©trisgti

Touring Wild Florida on a safari tour is a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in Florida's natural beauty and wildlife. This tourist destination invites you to explore the vast wetlands and landscapes that are home to a variety of native species.

During the safari tour you will embark on a boat ride that will take you through the local swamps and rivers. You'll get up close and personal with wildlife in their natural habitat, such as alligators, exotic birds and turtles, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Orlando. In addition, expert guides will provide you with information about the local wildlife.

Wild Florida will also give you the opportunity to interact with animals at the zoo. You can feed giraffes, pet sloths and see tigers and lions up close. You can also enjoy wildlife shows and lush greenery, especially if you visit Orlando in March or during the spring months.

Touring Wild Florida on an Orlando safari tour is an educational and exciting experience for the whole family. In addition to admiring the wildlife, you'll also contribute to the conservation and preservation of natural ecosystems and be amazed by some of the best natural scenery without the need to visit the Everglades from Orlando, or the outskirts of the city.

Join an Orlando Safari Tour

3. See the city on a guided tour

Hard Rock Cafe|©Brenda Santos
Hard Rock Cafe|©Brenda Santos

Orlando is famous for its amusement parks and entertainment venues, but it's also a beautiful city, so if you want to make the most of your visit you can opt for a guided tour that will take you to explore the main points of interest so you can discover all that this destination has to offer.

During the itinerary of the best Orlando tours you'll get to see Universal Studios, Walt Disney World theme park, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. You can also visit Seaworld, where you can enjoy marine animal shows, and the city's aquarium, which is always packed with tourists, especially if you plan to visit Orlando in July.

In addition to the theme parks, these tours usually also include stops at the popular The Florida Mall and other places where you can find a wide variety of products, from clothing and footwear to electronics, souvenirs and all kinds of merchandise.

If you plan to visit Orlando in April or during the spring season, the tour will also include some free time in some of the city's iconic green spaces, such as Wadeview Park or Lake Lancaster Park.

Book a guided tour of Orlando

4. Tour Island H2O Water Park

Child laughing on water slide|© Jeremiah Lawrence
Child laughing on water slide|© Jeremiah Lawrence

Touring the Island H2O water park in Orlando is a refreshing and fun-filled experience for the whole family. This state-of-the-art water park offers a variety of exciting and unique attractions that guarantee hours of entertainment in the Florida sunshine, making it an ideal activity, especially if you are planning to visit Orlando in June or during the summer months.

At this park you can access high-speed water slides, swim in wave pools, ride on lazy rivers and have fun in interactive play areas where you can discover dolphins, sharks and Caribbean landscapes without the need to take a full day trip from Orlando or travel to Miami from the city.

One of the highlights of Island H2O is its focus on music and creativity. The park features themed zones inspired by different genres of music, such as hip-hop and pop. You can also enjoy live music, pool parties and special DJ performances, creating a festive and energetic atmosphere, whether you choose to visit Orlando in January or during the winter months.

In addition to the water attractions, Island H2O offers delicious food and beverage options to suit all tastes. From quick snacks to full meals, there are options for every appetite. You'll also find shaded seating areas where you can relax and recharge your batteries.

Book a full day tour from Orlando

5. Have fun at Orlando's Icon Park

Icon Park|©Victor Walters
Icon Park|©Victor Walters

Orlando's Icon Park is a resort with a wide variety of attractions and activities to keep you busy all day long. One of the most popular attractions is The Wheel, a huge 120-metre high observation wheel that will give you clean panoramic views of the city, especially if you plan to visit Orlando in November when the weather is dry and clear.

In addition to The Wheel, Icon Park has plenty of entertainment options. You can enjoy virtual reality experiences on the Orlando StarFlyer, a swing tower that will lift you 137 metres above the ground. You can also test your aim in the Archery Tag archery game.

For family fun lovers, Icon Park offers the Skeletons Museum of Osteology, where you can explore an impressive collection of animal skeletons. You can also enjoy a game of themed mini golf at Lost Caverns Adventure Golf, where you 'll enter a mysterious and challenging world.

Icon Park also includes restaurants, bars and lounge areas, and during certain times of the year is open until midnight, making it one of Orlando's best night-time activities. If you're planning to visit in December or during Christmas, you'll also find the Ferris wheel lit up with festive motifs.

Visit Icon Park in Orlando

6. Visit the Magic Kingdom theme park

Magic Kingdom|©CurtisReese
Magic Kingdom|©CurtisReese

One of the best things to do in Orlando is to visit the iconic Walt Disney World park, which is famous for being the place where dreams come true and where people of all ages can enjoy an unforgettable experience.

At Magic Kingdom you will be greeted by the iconic Cinderella Castle, a sight that will immediately transport you to a fairytale. As you explore the park, you'll discover different attractions, colourful parades and classic Disney characters that come to life and make you want to come back again and again, especially if you plan to visit Orlando for 7 days or longer.

From thrilling roller coasters like Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to family attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Magic Kingdom offers a wide variety of options for everyone. Plus, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy Orlando's best live shows, watch the fireworks and witness the parades that fill the park with magic and joy.

In addition to the rides, the Magic Kingdom has a selection of restaurants and fast food options. You can enjoy a meal at one of the themed restaurants or simply savour a sweet Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Bar while exploring the park. If you visit Orlando during Christmas, you can see the park decorated with lights and eve motifs.

Check out the best things to do in Orlando

7. Discover the Econlockhatchee River on a kayak tour.

people kayaking|©Katie
people kayaking|©Katie

Discover the Econlockhatchee River on a kayaking tour in Orlando, a natural paradise of scenic beauty and wildlife. Located just outside the city, this meandering river offers a unique experience for adventure and nature lovers, as well as an alternative circuit of the city outside of the theme parks and children's entertainment.

As you embark on your kayak and enter the tranquil waters of the Econlockhatchee River, you'll find yourself surrounded by a lush landscape of dense forests, mangroves and grasslands. The serene surroundings will allow you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and lose yourself in the tranquillity of nature. And if you plan to visit Orlando during the spring, you'll discover dense vegetation here.

From herons and eagles to turtles and otters, the Econlockhatchee River is home to a diversity of species that will captivate you with their beauty and grace. It's even possible to spot alligators and manatees at certain times of the year, especially if you opt for a hovercraft tour, which will take you into the heart of the river.

During your kayak tour, you can also enjoy stops at the white sandy beaches along the river, which are part of Orlando's best beaches tour. There you can relax, enjoy a picnic or simply admire the scenery around you.

Book an airboat tour in Orlando

8. Tour Orlando's Museum of Illusions

Museum of Illusion - Orlando, FL|©Jim Hale
Museum of Illusion - Orlando, FL|©Jim Hale

For an alternative experience in Orlando, you can't miss the Museum of Illusions, which will immerse you in a world of surprises and deceptive perceptions. This fascinating museum offers an interactive exhibition that will challenge your senses and take you on a journey full of optical traps and visual tricks.

In this exhibition you will find yourself surrounded by exhibits that defy logic and make you question what you see. You can walk through rooms where the walls seem to move, defy gravity in inclined rooms and discover 3D paintings that come to life before your eyes.

One of the most outstanding features of the Museum of Illusions is the possibility of interacting with the exhibits. What's more, the entire tour will take you no more than 2 hours, making it an ideal visit even if you are planning a short stay in the city. If that is your case, here is a list of activities to discover Orlando in 3 days.

In addition to visual illusions, the museum also has educational exhibits that will teach you about the science and psychology behind illusions. You'll learn how the brain processes visual information and how our senses can trick us, and you'll understand why it's one of the city's most famous attractions along with the Kennedy Space Center, the theme parks and Orlando Magic NBA games.

Visit the Kennedy Space Center

9. Experience a night of dinner and a show at Mango's Tropical Cafe

Mango's Tropical Cafe|©Jim Thomas
Mango's Tropical Cafe|©Jim Thomas

For an experience that combines burlesque showmanship with Caribbean music, Mango's Tropical Cafe will immerse you in a vibrant experience. This iconic restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious Central American cuisine. Whether you're visiting Orlando in February or during the summer months, you'll always find fun at this nightclub.

This place is characterised by Latin music and Caribbean rhythms, creating a festive atmosphere that will transport you to the tropical beaches. The dining experience is just as interesting, as you can sample a selection of regional dishes, from fresh seafood and red meat to vegetarian dishes.

However, what makes Mango 's Tropical Cafe really special is the live entertainment. During dinner you can enjoy performances by professional dancers, acrobats and live musicians. The stage comes alive with exciting choreography, eye-catching costumes and an infectious energy that will keep you entertained and amazed throughout the night.

A night of dinner and a show will transport you to an experience full of flavour, rhythm and fun. Whether you're looking to enjoy a romantic dinner, celebrate a special occasion or just have fun with friends, this Orlando landmark will ensure a night to remember.

Meet Mango 's Tropical Caf

10. Visit Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Madame Tussauds Orlando|©Disney, Indiana
Madame Tussauds Orlando|©Disney, Indiana

The Madame Tussauds wax museum has become a world reference and in each city where it is located it has particularities that make it unique. In Orlando, the exhibition will allow you to get up close and take pictures with your favourite celebrities, historical leaders and famous personalities of pop culture, but also other protagonists of the city's past, such as Walt Disney and many of his characters.

In this exhibition you will be amazed by the quality and detail of the wax figures. As with all Madame Tussauds exhibits, in Orlando each sculpture is meticulously created to capture the facial features, expression and even the smallest detail of the characters depicted. It is also an attraction that is included in the Orlando Tourist Card, so if you book it you can save money.

The experience at Madame Tussauds, however, is not just about looking at the wax figures, but also about interacting with them. You can take pictures with your idols and pose in fun and creative situations - do you want to hug your favourite actor, give a speech next to a historic president or star in an iconic scene from a film? At Madame Tussauds you can do just that.

In addition to wax figures, the museum offers themed exhibits and interactive experiences. You can take part in escape games, learn about the history of the figures and immerse yourself in the world of film and music. It's also a great alternative for rainy days, especially if you plan to visit Orlando in October.

Book the Orlando Tourist Card