17 Fun Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks

Last Updated on July 2, 2025

Itโ€™s undeniable: Orlando consistently ranks among the worldโ€™s top tourist destinations. Every year, Orlando is flooded with visitors wanting to experience the myriad of both family-friendly and adult activities. From indoor to outdoor fun, Orlando has so much to offer, including a wide range of monetary expenses to suit any budget. Nicknamed โ€œThe City Beautifulโ€, Orlando is especially known for Disney and Universal Studios, but there are so many more things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.

For example, if you seek adventure in a more urban environment, then the heart of downtown will allow you to ride public transportation and walk to many immersive and uniquely themed dining options. And while the appeal of theme parks is strong in Orlando, there is a rich tapestry of events that can entertain just about anyone year after year. So read on for some fun activities that will allow you to immerse yourself in the exquisite culture and natural beauty of this busy city!

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks: Family-Friendly Activities

Orlando Science Center

Father and son creating a science project at the Orlando Science Center, one of the top things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Orlando Science Center
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

777 E. Princeton St. Orlando, Florida 32803

+1 (407) 514-2000

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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The Orlando Science Center is located in the heart of Orlando. Itโ€™s an interactive four-story building that houses fun for all ages. There are multiple exhibits, including some that rotate every season. In addition, there are live animals, live science demo presentations, and a fabulous gift shop that will get any child excited about science.

Topgolf Orlando

Topgolf Orlando entertainment venue with neon-lit targets at night, offering fun things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Topgolf Orlando
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

9295 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

+1 (407) 218-7714

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

Book a Bay!

This destination includes a climate-controlled area with music and an awesome food selection, which is just the thing for a hungry family. The scoring system is similar to bowling and darts, so all members of the family can see their progress as they eat some yummy food. If you are more interested in watching a game, then enjoy the lounge.

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament

Knights on horseback waving colorful flags during a Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament show โ€” one of the top-rated things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

4510 W. Vine St, Kissimmee, FL 34746

+1 (888) 935-6878

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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Experience a unique dining experience with royalty, medieval-centric foods, and a real joust! This unique opportunity has varying levels of immersion and can include a meet and greet with the King and Queen. If you even want more immersion, upgrade to front-row seats for the opportunity to participate in the show!

Crayola Experience

Children posing with a giant crayon mascot at Crayola Experience, one of the best things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Crayola Experience
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809

+1 (407) 757-1700

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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This fun attraction has 26 hands-on activities, making it a great choice for younger audiences. This is a great place for hands-on learning, especially creating multicolor figures. Children can even watch crayons melt into new shapes other than crayons!

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

A mother and two young girls gaze in awe at colorful fish swimming in a large aquarium tank at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

8449 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

+1 (855) 450-0680

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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This 360-degree underwater tunnel allows guests to see a wide range of fish, sharks, and rays. There is also a lovely maze and interactive area for younger guests. Another fun fact: every Tuesday, toddlers have the opportunity to have their own experience with special age-appropriate activities.

Boggy Creek Airboat Ride

People enjoying a thrilling airboat ride through the wetlands at Boggy Creek, one of the best things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Boggy Creek Airboat Ride
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

2001 E Southport Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34746

+1 (407) 344-9550

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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This 45-minute tour for six allows guests to glide over unseen parts of Florida at 40 mph. There are also nighttime tours available for guests that offer a unique experience on the night creatures of swampy Florida. You can also have the option to dig into the 70 ft. mine to find some fossils left by sharks and alligators. Finally, guests can also immerse themselves in Native American Culture through cooking and tool-making.

Fun Spot Theme Parks

Family enjoying a ride at Fun Spot Theme Parks in Orlando, one of the best things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Fun Spot Theme Parks
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, FL 32819

+1 (407) 363-3867

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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With two locations in Orlando, these vast amusement parks offer unique experiences with their roller coasters, arcades, and food choices. Fun Spot also happens to be the home of Orlandoโ€™s only wooden roller coaster. Besides that, there are plenty of options for all ages, including a splash pad, bumper boats, and cabana rentals for relaxation.

Gatorland

Boardwalk over the water at Gatorland with a rainbow in the sky, one of the best things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Gatorland
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837

+1 (407) 855-5496

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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Guests will experience one of the largest collections of reptiles in one space and even have the opportunity to hold baby gators. There are also separate ticketed adventures for zip-lining and off-road adventures. Other great options include a lovely petting zoo and a splash pad to cool off from the Florida heat.

The Florida Mall

Couple walking out of The Florida Mall on a sunny day, a great example of things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
The Florida Mall
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809

+1 (407) 851-6255

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

This is Central Floridaโ€™s largest mall with over 250+ options for shopping, dining, and entertainment. This inclusive mall has all of your favorite stores with experiences that cater to just about anybody. Thereโ€™s even a valet at this mall to help you avoid the incredibly large and busy parking lot. Another handy fact: this mall is very close to the airport, which is perfect if youโ€™re trying to catch a flight!

Ripleyโ€™s Believe It or Not

Wax figures at Ripleyโ€™s Believe It or Not Orlando standing with a giant ruler inside the museum. A fun option for things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Ripleyโ€™s Believe It or Not
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

8201 International Drive, Orlando, FLย 32819

+1 (407) 345-0501

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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Itโ€™s the unique (crooked) structure of this place that entices guests to enter. However, this 10,000 sq. foot venue allows you to explore 16 exhibits and interact with all the quirks of this strange and unusual space. The ability for self-guided tours means you can stay as long as you like, but be careful: sometimes the spooky hosts might entice you to stay forever.

Wonderworks

WonderWorks Orlando with upside-down architecture and purple flowers in the foreground โ€“ a unique pick for things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks.
Wonderworks
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

+1 (407) 351-8800

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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A massive interactive exhibit to entice the senses will encourage all sorts of inquisitiveness. With over 100 exhibits, laser tag, a 3-story ropes course, and an XD 4D motion ride, this attraction is fun for all ages. This fun upside-down attraction will have you immersed for hours, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks: Adult Activities

Cocktails and Screams

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks โ€“ neon-lit Cocktails & Screams bar with spooky masks, a costumed visitor reaching out, unique nightlife attraction in downtown Orlando.
Cocktails and Screams
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

39 W Pine St, Orlando, FL 32801

+1 (407) 904-0124

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

This unique bar caters to Halloween year-round, offering delectable drinks with spooky decor. This setting is also perfect for guests to indulge in spooky trivia and take the most adorable pictures. The spot is especially well-known for throwing themed parties, like the โ€œThrillerโ€ dance-offs and Zombie parties. They pay homage to the Addams family every Wednesday with a costume contest!

Vault 5421

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks โ€“ immersive experience at Vault 5421 featuring a post-apocalyptic cowboy character and themed decor with skeletons and props.
Vault 5421
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

5421 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

+1 (407) 270-6273

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

One of the first bars inside a comic book shop, this place allows guests to immerse themselves in the settings of some of their most beloved series. So enjoy this post-apocalyptic bar that serves craft beer and regularly has its employees dress up for all occasions. Every Saturday night is themed, where costumes and cosplay are encouraged.

Central Florida Ale Trail

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks โ€“ craft beer flight and savory meatball dish at a Central Florida Ale Trail stop, a local foodie and brewery experience.
Central Florida Ale Trail

Location: Multiple Locations

Visit several Central Florida breweries and receive a free growler. You can get a physical copy of a passport brochure and collect stamps for visiting every brewery listed on the trail. There are tours offered by bus that can help you complete the trail in record time with either a group of your choosing or strangers.

Orlando Museum of Artโ€ฆ After Hours

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks โ€“ outdoor sculpture installation at Orlando Museum of Art, a cultural attraction offering creative events and exhibitions.
Orlando Museum of Art… After Hours
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

2416 N. Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

+1 (407) 896-4231

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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If you feel inclined to witness art in new and inspired ways, then visit the museum on the 1st Thursday of every month and witness new exhibits based on monthly themes. This event also has drinks for purchase, and you can view several longstanding exhibits. However, much of the art is for sale, and artists are frequently even in attendance to answer any questions you may have about their art and process.

ICE BAR Orlando

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks โ€“ group of women enjoying drinks off an ice shot board at ICEBAR Orlando, a unique nightlife and frozen lounge experience.
ICE BAR Orlando
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

8967 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

+1 (407) 426-7555

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

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This unique bar is the only permanent ice bar in the world with over 70 tons of hand-carved ice, making it a memorable experience. The bar itself is kept at 22 degrees, and all guests are provided with a warm thermal parka and gloves. Once guests have their drinks, they can enjoy the ice lounge, listen to the incredible music, and gaze at the unique ice sculptures that decorate the space. Itโ€™s just the perfect place to visit when you want to escape the Florida sun!

The Escape Room Orlando

Things to Do in Orlando Besides The Theme Parks โ€“ family posing in a themed adventure room at The Escape Game Orlando, a fun group activity and immersive puzzle challenge.
The Escape Room Orlando
๐Ÿ“ŒLocation ๐Ÿ•’Hours ๐Ÿ“žContact (Tap or Click Here)

8145 International Drive SE, Suite 511, Orlando,ย FLย 32819

+1 (407) 501-7222

Event times and locations may be subject to change. Please check with official sources or event organizers for the most up-to-date information and any holiday-related schedule adjustments.

Book Now!

The Escape Game Orlando offers seven distinctive and interactive adventures, featuring their latest ocean-themed room, The Depths, and their most challenging escape game, Prison Break. Large parties have the opportunity to begin their escapades simultaneously, accommodating up to 89 players at once. Each escape game provided by The Escape Game Orlando is family-friendly, with unique themes, high levels of immersion, and multiple rooms to conquer.

Conclusion

In summary, itโ€™s virtually impossible to get bored in this incredibly alive city. With so many different kinds of immersive experiences available, itโ€™s easy to keep yourself completely entertained with the multitude of things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks. However, since everyone is drawn by different things, let us know which one of these YOU think is the most fun!

What are the non-Disney parks in Orlando?

SeaWorld Orlando, Florida.
Wet ‘N Wild Orlando, Florida.
Busch Gardens at Tampa, Florida.
Kennedy Space Center.
Universal Studios Orlando.
Islands of Adventure, Orlando, Florida.

What can you do at Disney instead of the parks?

Have fun with live entertainment.
View the on-site Disney attractions.
Watch the fireworks from the street.
Take to the water.
Characters, please.
Enjoy specialty cuisine.
Activities and classes are held on-site.
Relive a Park Day from the Outside.

Is CityWalk free in Orlando?

There are no entrance fees for CityWalk other than the parking costs. You can take a stroll, look around the shops, eat, or locate free late-night entertainment. Click here if you need tickets for Universal Studios or the Islands of Adventure!

Crystal Bellemont, a smiling local guide, stands in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom, representing her role in helping tourists find the best restaurants, bars, shopping, and entertainment near Disney and Universal Studios in Orlando.
Author at  | Website |  + posts

Crystal Bellemont is a trusted Orlando-based hospitality professional with over 10 years of hands-on experience helping tourists make the most of their visit to Central Florida. As a lifelong local and certified tourism consultant, Crystal has curated travel experiences for thousands of guests visiting major attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Her expert knowledge of the areaโ€™s top restaurants, shopping districts, nightlife, and entertainment venues has been featured in local travel publications and community guides.

Crystal is committed to providing accurate, up-to-date, and experience-based recommendations that enhance every travelerโ€™s journey. Her work is grounded in first-hand experience, local partnerships, and a deep understanding of what makes a visit to Orlando both seamless and unforgettable. Whether youโ€™re a first-time visitor or a returning Disney fan, Crystalโ€™s insights are backed by a decade of helping others explore Orlando with confidence.

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