17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids

Last Updated on July 4, 2025

Orlando is home to some amazing attractions, activities, and things to do with children of all ages. These activities can suit nearly any budget and will engage the whole family! Orlando not only has incredible theme parks with sizable discounts for Florida residents, but there is also so much natural beauty to entice the senses of any curious child. Here’s a fun list of things to do in Orlando (or the Greater Orlando Area) with your kids!

Here Are Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids

1. Orlando Science Center

Demonstrator igniting a swirling flame at Orlando Science Center – 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids.
Spark curiosity at Orlando Science Center—one of the top things to do in Orlando with kids.

@orlandosciencecenter

The Orlando Science Center is a multiple story fun spot that caters to all age ranges of children. There are plenty of movies playing in the CineDome, varieties of wildlife to see, and exhibits that feature technology, movement, and so much more. There are even specially themed nights that are kid-friendly.

2. Gatorland

Albino alligator at Gatorland — Title: 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Get up close with a rare albino alligator—one of the most exciting things to do in Orlando with kids!

@gatorland_orlando

Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve in Florida that allows visitors to learn more about alligators. It features thousands of alligators (including rare leucistic alligators), crocodiles, and many other animals. Attractions in the park include a breeding marsh with a boardwalk and observation tower, zip lines, an off-road swamp vehicle tour, a ridable miniature railroad, alligator feeding shows, alligator wrestling shows, an aviary, a petting zoo, and educational programs. The breeding marsh area of the park was even used in the filming of the 1984 movie Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.

3. Orlando ICON Park

Albino alligator at Gatorland — Title: 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Get up close with a rare albino alligator—one of the most exciting things to do in Orlando with kids!

@iconparkorlando

This unique experience is off International Drive. Guests have the option to take pictures with wax celebrity sculpture at Madame Tussauds, go on the wheel for an incredible view of the city, or even visit the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium for the chance to come face-to-fin with sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and more! In addition, there is a 7D Dark Ride Adventure that is an immersive shooter game for visitors. Finally, Arcade City is a fun throwback experience that gives everyone a chance to win prizes!

4. Orlando Repertory Theatre

Colorful lobby of Orlando Repertory Theatre – 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Catch a live show at Orlando Repertory Theatre—one of the best things to do in Orlando with kids!

This professional theatre aims to entertain all children with engaging productions and events that encourage children to participate in the world of theater. Children also have the opportunity to go backstage and tour the theater with its variety of props and costume design areas.

5. Mennello Museum

Mennello Museum with families viewing artwork – Title: 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Explore beautiful artwork with your kids at the Mennello Museum — one of the top things to do in Orlando!

@mennellomuseum

This museum has free family fun days, where children can create mini works of art and tour the museum. Each event is themed to the artist currently exhibited at the museum, so it’s a great way to do a hands-on activity in a beautiful space.

6. Orlando Circus School

Colorful aerial silk performance at Orlando Circus School — a top pick in our 2025 list of exciting things to do in Orlando with kids.
High-flying fun at Orlando Circus School — one of the most exciting things to do in Orlando!

@orlandocircusschool

Kids and adults can have the opportunity to learn a variety of skills such as tumbling, silks, and trapeze and even get a free open gym time. This unique school focuses on having lots of fun while being safe at the same time. Kids of all ages are welcome and will have ample opportunity to play with others, potentially forming some incredible bonds.

7. SAK Comedy Lab

Group of comedians from Sak Comedy Lab smiling – featured in “17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids.”
Laugh out loud at Sak Comedy Lab – one of the most unique things to do in Orlando!

@sakcomedylab

This comedy lab hosts improv classes for older children along with family-friendly comedy shows that will be sure to give you a chuckle! It’s important to look online for their schedule so you can pick the best experience for you and your family.

8. Lake Eola Farmer’s Market

Lake Eola Farmer’s Market – 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Lake Eola Farmer’s Market is a must-see spot among the best things to do in Orlando with kids!

@the_knightstrider

The market now hosts nearly 50 vendors who offer everything from gourmet cheese and kettle corn to one-of-a-kind art and handmade jewelry. It’s also a great place to pick up your provisions for the week thanks to the piles of fresh produce for sale. But if you’re just looking for a place to hang out, you’ll be delighted to find a beer and wine garden (which opens at noon and serves $5 drinks along with $12 bottomless mimosas), live music, and loads of delicious food to enjoy while you wander through the market or lounge under a shady tree. Kids will absolutely love the face painters, performers, and swan boat rides on the lake.

9. Paddle Board Yoga

Two smiling kids in life jackets paddling on a clear kayak with a dog at Paddle Board Yoga – Title: 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Enjoy a unique family adventure at Paddle Board Yoga — a splash-worthy thing to do in Orlando!

@epicpaddleorlando

Paddle board yoga is a unique activity that is safe for all ages. A qualified yoga teacher will lead you and your children in a beautiful yoga flow on a lake. Each student is equipped with an optional life jacket and provided with rental boards. This unique experience can even involve sightseeing manatees and other amazing Florida wildlife!

10. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Live performance at Dr. Phillips Center – Title: 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Dr. Phillips Center lights up with must-see shows — one of the top things to do in Orlando!

@drphillipsctr

This beautiful, new space boasts some incredible performances that will suit all ages! In addition to being able to see shows, there is an option to tour the backstage area and see how performances are created.

11. Leu Gardens

Visitors exploring the lush walkways at Leu Gardens | Title: 17 Interesting and Exciting Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
Stroll through the scenic beauty of Leu Gardens — one of the best things to do in Orlando!

@leugardens

This 50-acre botanical dream is perfect for not only gazing at rare flowers but also for playing games. They host story times, movie nights, classes, and camps that revolve around STEM, art, and nature. In addition to yearly events, they also change exhibits to keep younger children engaged in the stunning natural scenery.

12. Boggy Creek Airboat Rides

Boggy Creek Airboat Rides in Kissimmee, Florida – thrilling outdoor experience for things to do in Orlando
Boggy Creek Airboat Rides is a must-try for adventure lovers looking for things to do in Orlando!

@celebrationtours

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 an entirely unique experience on the night creatures of swampy Florida. You can also have the option to dig in the 70 ft. mine to find some fossils left by sharks and alligators, which kids will find super cool! Guests can also immerse themselves in Native American culture through cooking and tool making.

13. Orlando Balloon Rides

Orlando Balloon Rides in Kissimmee, colorful hot air balloons rising over green fields – things to do in Orlando.
Soar above Central Florida with Orlando Balloon Rides – a top-rated thing to do in Orlando!

@experiencekissimmee

This unique experience will allow you to see sunrise for a full hour. This very professional business even comes with a traditional champagne toast for the adults. As long as weather permits, this experience is available 365 days a year.

14. Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament

Fan cheering at Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Kissimmee, Florida – things to do in Orlando
Things to do in Orlando: Cheer your knight at Medieval Times in Kissimmee!

@medievaltimesflorida

Experience a unique dining experience with royalty, medieval centric foods, and even 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 want even more immersion, however, upgrade to front row seats, and you’ll get the opportunity to participate in the show!

15. Topgolf Orlando

Aerial view of Topgolf Orlando showcasing the modern driving range with targets – things to do in Orlando.
Enjoy interactive fun and food at Topgolf Orlando – one of the top things to do in Orlando!

@topgolf

Golfing in a climate-controlled area with music and an awesome food selection is just the thing for a hungry family. The scoring system is one that 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.

16. Semoran Skateway

Three friends pose excitedly outside Semoran Skateway – a top local spot for fun things to do in Orlando.
Semoran Skateway: One of the most nostalgic and fun things to do in Orlando with friends!

@semoranskateway

Roller skating has never gone out of style in this landmark skating park. It’s the perfect place to indulge a past time or even just watch a few roller derby matches. This incredible space has classes and even a DJ to always keep things fun and the good times rolling.

17. Tree Trek Adventure Park

Tree Trek Adventure Park zipline thrill in Orlando – one of the top things to do in Orlando.
Tree Trek Adventure Park – adrenaline-pumping fun in the heart of Orlando!

@orlandotreetrek

Orlando’s thrilling tree top obstacle course boasts a giant zipline, 97 aerial challenges, and two specific kids’ courses with 27 challenges. With so much variety, you can be sure all levels of ability are welcome! This unique space usually also has discounts available, so be sure to do your research. Also, remember to check the weather before indulging in this all-outdoor space.

Conclusion

Whatever you decide to do, it’s hard to make a bad choice! Of all the great things to do in Orlando, there are so many kid-friendly options, and not everything has an admission price. Finally, be sure to call ahead to get the most accurate information before you indulge your little ones in the time of their lives!

What are the best free things to do in Orlando with kids?

If you’re looking for budget-friendly fun, there are plenty of free things to do in Orlando with kids. Visit Lake Eola Park for paddleboat rides and playgrounds, explore the Disney Springs entertainment area, or check out the splash pad and hands-on exhibits at Crayola Experience during their occasional free-entry events.

Are there indoor things to do in Orlando with kids when it rains?

Absolutely! Some top indoor things to do in Orlando with kids include WonderWorks, an interactive science museum with tons of hands-on exhibits, and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. The Orlando Science Center is also a hit for families, offering fun learning experiences for all ages, rain or shine.

What age groups are most of the kid-friendly attractions in Orlando suitable for?

Most kid-friendly attractions in Orlando cater to a wide range of ages—from toddlers to preteens. Places like LEGOLAND Florida are perfect for kids ages 2 to 12, while older kids will enjoy Universal’s Islands of Adventure or ICON Park’s attractions. Many locations offer age-specific zones to make sure all kids have fun.

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.
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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 area’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 traveler’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 you’re a first-time visitor or a returning Disney fan, Crystal’s insights are backed by a decade of helping others explore Orlando with confidence.

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