Best Things To Do In Orlando

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

Matías Rodríguez

Matías Rodríguez

11 min read

Best Things To Do In Orlando

Turistas en Orlando|©Brenda Santos

Whether you plan to vacation in Orlando or visit the city just for a few days from Miami or elsewhere in Florida, this city 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, getting to know the city on a fun guided tour, touring the water parks, visiting Magic Kingdom, discovering the Econlockhatchee River and visiting the Madame Tussauds wax museum. There is a lot 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 attractions inspired by movies and iconic pop culture characters, making it a must-see. It is also very easy to access, since you can get there by public transportation, by car or even by shuttle from the 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 scenario of Jurassic Park and much more. Each area is designed to give you an immersive experience and transport you to movie sets, making it one of the best theme parks in Orlando.

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

Visiting Universal Studios amusement park in Orlando is an experience that combines the magic of the movies with the adrenaline of the rides. Whether you are a movie fan 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 near the water|©trisgti
Elephant near 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 a close-up look at 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 flora and fauna.

Wild Florida will also offer you the opportunity to interact with animals in its zoo. You can feed giraffes, pet sloths and see tigers and lions up close. You can also enjoy wildlife shows and lush vegetation, 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 will 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 a safari tour in Orlando

3. Get to know 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 sites, but it is also a very beautiful city, so if you want to get the most out 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 will be able to visit Universal Studios, Walt Disney World theme park, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. You can also visit Seaworld, where you can enjoy shows with marine animals, and the city's aquarium, which is always crowded 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 sites 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 modern water park will offer you a variety of exciting and unique attractions that will guarantee hours of entertainment under the Florida sun, making it an ideal activity, especially if you plan to visit Orlando in June or during the summer months.

In 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 full-day trips 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 musical genres, 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 satisfy every taste. From quick snacks to full meals, there are options for every appetite. You'll also find shaded lounge areas where you can relax and recharge.

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-meter-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 numerous entertainment options. You can enjoy virtual reality experiences on the Orlando StarFlyer, a swing tower that will lift you 137 meters 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 miniature 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 it's open until midnight, making it one of Orlando's best nighttime activities. If you plan to visit the city in December or during Christmas, you can also find the Ferris wheel illuminated with festive motifs.

Visit Icon Park in Orlando

6. Visit 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 fairy tale. As you explore the park, you'll discover different attractions, colorful 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 all tastes. 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 attractions, 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 savor 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 activities 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 and experience 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 in the city, outside of the theme parks and children's entertainment.

As you embark on your kayak and enter the calm waters of the Econlockhatchee River, you will be surrounded by a lush landscape of dense forests, mangroves and grasslands. The serenity of the environment will allow you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and lose yourself in the tranquility of nature. In addition, if you plan to visit Orlando during the spring, you will 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 kayaking excursion, 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

If you want to live an alternative experience in Orlando, you can't miss the Museum of Illusions, which will allow you to immerse yourself in a world of surprises and deceptive perceptions. This fascinating museum offers an interactive exhibit 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 will make you question what you see. You will be able to 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. In addition, its complete tour will not take you 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 will learn how the brain processes visual information and how our senses can trick us, and you will understand why it is one of the most famous attractions in the city along with the Kennedy Space Center, the theme parks and the 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

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

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

What makes Mango 's Tropical Cafe really special, however, 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 flavor, rhythm and fun. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic dinner, celebrate a special occasion or just have fun with friends, this Orlando landmark will ensure an unforgettable evening.

Meet Mango 's Tropical Caf

10. Visit Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Madame Tussauds Museum|©Mario Gonzalez Leyva
Madame Tussauds Museum|©Mario Gonzalez Leyva

The Madame Tussauds wax museum has become a worldwide 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 close and take pictures with your favorite 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 in 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 represented. In addition, it is an attraction that is included in the Orlando Tourist Card, so if you hire it you can save money.

The experience at Madame Tussauds, however, is not only about observing 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 favorite actor, give a speech with a historic president or star in an iconic movie scene? At Madame Tussauds you can do just that.

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

Book the Orlando Tourist Card