16 Things to Do in Orlando Florida (Besides Theme Parks), Including Attractions and Activities

When most people think of Orlando, Florida, theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios typically come to mind. However, this vibrant city offers so much more beyond these famous attractions. If you’re looking to venture beyond our theme parks, here are 16 lesser-known things to do in Orlando Florida you shouldn’t miss.

And if you need a place to stay, check out our flagship Orange Lake Resort in Orlando FL, which features great activities and amenities like a pool, lazy river, mini golf, and sport courts.

1. Visit the Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a must-visit for curious minds of all ages–but it’s especially great for kids 12 and younger. One of the top kids science centers in America, the Orlando Science Center features interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, and an observatory.

While it’s hard to pick the best exhibits in this massive science center, highlights include the Orange Grove, where kids can move, sort, stock, and pick plastic “oranges” throughout the citrus grove–inspired space. The Isaacs Family Climb Time is an indoor climbing area with plenty of room to explore. In DinoDigs, visitors can learn about prehistoric creatures and see replicas of dinosaur fossils. The Kinetic Zone will inspire your inner engineer as you experiment with pulleys and design your own circuit.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 27 miles

Price
Prices can vary, but it’s generally $28 for adults, $21 for kids, and free for kids 2 and younger.

2. Golf on Orlando’s Best Courses

Since it’s warm year-round, golf is a popular sport in the Sunshine state–and Orlando is no exception. The city boasts hundreds of golf courses that cater to both amateur and professional players, from championship courses designed by legendary architects like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus to public courses that provide exceptional value, there’s something for every golfer.

Many courses are set within beautiful natural surroundings, offering stunning views, lush landscaping, and a serene atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to improve your game with professional coaching or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the course, Orlando is a golfer’s paradise.

Having trouble deciding where to play? Golf Digest has a list of 10 of the best courses in and around the city.

And remember, you don’t have to leave Orange Lake Resort to experience a championship golf course. The Legends at Orange Lake in Orlando is an 18-hole, Arnold Palmer Signature Designed championship course. Play a round (or two, or more!) surrounded by towering pines and majestic oaks, with Scottish-style golf featured on the front nine and flowing water and Carolina-esque fairways on the back nine.

There’s also two additional golf courses: The Reserve and Crane’s Bend in West Village. And if you want to improve your game, check out McCord-Brown Golf Academy, which offers private instruction, group classes and clinics throughout the day.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
The Legends is steps away
Other courses vary

Price
Depends on the course and your tee time. Many courses rent clubs as well.

3. Experience the Thrills of Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park offers an exhilarating experience. This aerial adventure park features 97 challenges, including zip lines, suspended bridges, and Tarzan swings. There are 4 different courses for adults, each one designed for different skill levels. Plus there are two separate kids courses that feature 21 challenges. Beginners and experienced adventurers can enjoy the challenge and excitement of navigating through the treetops.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 5 miles

Price
Adults are $15 and children ages 4-17 years are $10. Children under 4 and active-duty members of the military are free.

4. Paddleboard Orlando’s Lakes

Orlando has many lakes, and they generally have very calm water, making them perfect for paddleboarding beginners. You can rent a board at Ski World Orlando and take it right across the street to Lake Ivanhoe near the city’s downtown. Plus, when you’re done, there are plenty of outdoor, counter-service places nearby to enjoy a nice cold beer after your paddle.

If you’re looking for a bit more adventure with your water sports, check out Epic Paddle Adventures. They offer day rentals plus a variety of tours and experiences, including an LED Glow-in-the-Dark Clear Paddle in Urban Paradise. If you’re willing to travel a bit outside the city, they also have paddleboard adventures with manatees or dolphins, too.

Even closer to “home,” you can rent a paddleboard, jet-ski, pontoon boat, or kayak at Water’s Edge Beach Club in West Village.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Ski World/Lake Ivanhoe: Approximately 30 miles
Epic Paddle Adventures: Approximately 27 miles

Price
Depends on the package you choose and the season.

5.Take a Family Bike Ride Through the West Orange Trail

Explore the West Orange Trail, a 22-mile stretch that goes through historic downtown Winter Garden, which has a great craft brewery (with outdoor seating!), wooded areas, parks with playgrounds, a garden, nature preserve, neighborhoods and more.

Travelers can rent bicycles or walk, jog, or skate their way along the trail. Stop for lunch at an outdoor café along Winter Garden’s Plant Street, and see even more things to do in Winter Garden if you want to stay in the area a bit longer.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 23 miles

Price
Trail access and parking are free
Bike rentals vary

6. Walk Through Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a 50-acre botanical oasis in downtown Orlando. Established by Harry P. Leu and his wife Mary Jane in the 1930s, the gardens are now a public treasure, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of plants from around the world, including tropical and subtropical species, roses, azaleas, camellias, and palms. The gardens are meticulously maintained, with winding paths leading through themed sections such as the butterfly garden, palm garden, and the historic rose garden, each providing unique sights and scents.

Leu Gardens also features the historic Leu House Museum, which offers a glimpse into the history of the region. The 19th-century home, preserved with period furnishings and artifacts, provides context to the development of the gardens and the Leu family’s contribution to the area. Throughout the year, Leu Gardens hosts a variety of events and educational programs, including plant sales, gardening workshops, and seasonal celebrations, making it a dynamic destination for both locals and tourists.

Leu Gardens is also a great spot for wildlife, especially birds and butterflies. It’s part of the Florida Birding Trail, a network of more than 500 wildlife viewing sites across the state. Keep your eyes open for songbirds, owls, woodpeckers, herons, storks, and ducks.

Whether you’re an avid gardener, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene place to unwind, Leu Gardens offers a delightful escape into nature’s beauty.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 28 miles

Price
Adults are $15 and children ages 4-17 years are $10. Children under 4 and active-duty members of the military are free.

7. Discover Art and Culture at the Orlando Museum of Art

Established in 1924, the Orlando Museum of Art is a cultural gem. Its collection spans a wide range of genres and periods, featuring American art from the 19th century to the present, African art, and art of the ancient Americas. Visitors can view works by renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Nick Cave, and Ansel Adams, as well as explore rotating exhibitions that highlight emerging talents and diverse artistic perspectives.

The museum also offers programs designed to inspire and educate. These include guided tours, workshops, and gallery talks. Check out the OMA events calendar to learn more.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 27 miles

Price
Adult tickets are $20, seniors (60+) are $12, children ages 6-17 are $8, and children 5 and under are free.

8. Visit Lake Eola Park

You’ll find Lake Eola Park in the heart of downtown Orlando. This picturesque spot is great or a leisurely day out near the water. The park’s centerpiece is the beautiful Lake Eola, where visitors can rent swan-shaped paddle boats and enjoy a relaxing ride on the water. The park also features a walking path, playground, picnic tables, outdoor café, and an amphitheater that hosts concerts and performances.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 25 miles

Price
Entrance to the park is free, but you’ll likely need to pay for an on-street parking spot (usually $1/hour)

9. Explore Culinary Experiences in the East End Market

East End Market is a unique culinary destination that showcases Orlando’s local food scene. This indoor market features a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. Visitors can sample gourmet treats, enjoy a meal at one of the market’s eateries, and even take a cooking class. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a food lover’s paradise. Check their website for a list of restaurants and vendors, plus the times they’re open.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 29 miles

Price
Parking and entry to East End Market is free, and delicious food options vary. There’s a parking lot surrounding the building, street parking on the west side of the building, and overflow parking lots.

10. Take an Airboat Ride

Experience the thrill of skimming across the waters of Orlando’s water with an exhilarating airboat ride. Gator Airboat Rides, which is just minutes from the theme parks, offers a 30 minute guided tour where you can spot alligators, exotic birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The high-speed airboat ride combined with the chance to observe Florida’s unique ecosystem up close makes this an unforgettable adventure for all ages.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 30 miles

Price
For a ½ hour tour, adults are $34 and children ages 3-12 are $31.

11. Explore Natural Springs at Wekiwa

Dip into the cool, blue waters of Wekiwa Springs State Park. Covering over 7,000 acres, Wekiwa Springs State Park is centered around the crystal-clear Wekiwa Springs, which pumps out 42 million gallons of water daily. This pristine spring stays at a cool 72 degrees all year long, even in the heat of summer, providing a perfect spot for swimming, splashing, and canoeing.

In addition to water activities, Wekiwa Springs State Park boasts an extensive network of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails that meander through its varied ecosystems. These trails offer opportunities to spot native wildlife, such as deer, wild turkeys, sand cranes, and a variety of other birds.

For those looking to extend their stay, Wekiwa Springs State Park provides camping facilities, including full-service campsites and more primitive options. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous day out or a peaceful weekend retreat, Wekiwa Springs State Park delivers an authentic Florida outdoor experience, blending natural beauty with recreational opportunities.

Keep in mind that there’s often a line to get into Wekiwa Springs State Park, and if the park reaches capacity, it will close temporarily.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 35 miles

Price
Park entry is $6/vehicle
Canoes are $35/hour plus tax

12. Shop ‘Til You Drop at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

For those who love shopping, the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets is a must-visit destination. This upscale outlet center features over 160 stores, including designer and name-brand outlets such as Coach, Michael Kors, and Ralph Lauren. With significant discounts on luxury items, it’s a shopper’s paradise. The beautifully designed open-air setting makes for a pleasant shopping experience, complete with dining options to refuel after a day of bargain hunting.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 11 miles

Price
Parking is free, but we make no promises about what you’ll spend once you see the great deals available!

13. Spot Celebrity Figures at Madame Tussauds Orlando

Madame Tussauds Orlando offers a unique and entertaining experience where you can get up close and personal with incredibly lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities, historical figures, and pop culture icons. The attraction features themed sections such as A-List Party, History & Leaders, and Sports, allowing visitors to snap selfies with everyone from movie stars to superheroes. It’s a fun and interactive way to spend a few hours and perfect for memorable photo opportunities.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 16 miles

Price
Tickets start at $30 per person, and there are often bundle deals where you can see other attractions at ICON Park, like the Orlando Eye.

14. Rev Up Your Engines at Orlando Kart Center

For thrill-seekers and racing enthusiasts, the Orlando Kart Center provides an adrenaline-pumping adventure. This outdoor go-kart track is known for its high-speed racing experience and well-maintained karts. Suitable for both beginners and experienced drivers, the track offers a challenging and exhilarating ride. With its focus on safety and excitement, it’s an excellent spot for families, friends, or solo visitors looking to test their driving skills and enjoy some competitive fun.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 21 miles

Price
Prices start at $35 per race.

15. Catch a Show at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural cornerstone in the city, offering a wide array of performances from Broadway shows and ballet to concerts and comedy acts. This state-of-the-art venue features stunning architecture and world-class acoustics, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of classical music, contemporary theater, or live performances, the Dr. Phillips Center provides an enriching and entertaining night out in the heart of the city.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 25 miles

Price
Prices vary depending on the event and your seats. See the 2025 Show Calendar here.

16. Go Indoor Skydiving at iFLY Orlando

Experience the exhilaration of flight without the potentially scary feeling of falling by going indoor skydiving at iFLY Orlando. You don’t need any experience to enjoy the feeling of being suspended in the air. Trained instructors are there to help you every step of the way. When you go, make sure you wear lace-up sneakers, comfortable clothes, and a hairstyle that will allow you to wear a helmet. Glasses are okay, but other accessories are best left behind.

Driving Distance from Orange Lake Resort
Approximately 16 miles

Price
Schedule your flight for an off-peak time to get tickets starting at $70. For more popular times, expect to pay around $90 for two flights.

Bonus! Attractions Just Outside of Orlando, FL for 2025

If you’re willing to drive a little bit outside the city, these attractions can add some great family fun to your vacation. Check out this list of Central Florida attractions for even more things to do.

• Drive the two-mile loop at Wild Florida to see 150 exotic animals, including wildebeest and zebras.
  
• Kayak through glowing water off Cape Canaveral. Seasonally, the waters of Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon literally glow when your oar hits the water due to bioluminescent dinoflagellates. There are lots of places that offer tours, including A Day Away. The best time to see the neon water is at nighttime from June through early October.
  
• Enjoy a day at the beach. Head east for the Space Coast sands and warm water of Cocoa Beach, one the best Florida beaches, and its signature pier. The quieter New Smyrna Beach has an adorable downtown nearby and ice cream stands just about everywhere. Daytona Beach is extremely popular, with boardwalk rides a few steps from the sand and live music concerts at an outdoor bandshell.
  
• Visit the Kennedy Space Center for an unforgettable look at space exploration. While the center itself is more than enough to keep you entertained, they also have a list of 2025 events on their website here.
  
• Take a break from screen time by spending a day at Lake Louisa State Park, a quick 20-minute drive from Orange Lake Resort. Hike, walk, bike, or horseback ride along the 20 miles of unpaved trails that wind through the park.
  
• Venture over to Little Big Econ State Forest, where you can hike the stunning landscape.
  
• See manatees at Blue Spring State Park, especially in cooler seasons.
  
• While technically part of the theme parks we promised to avoid, Disney and Universal have excellent water parks that often get overlooked in favor of the rides and attractions of the main parks. Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are Disney Parks, while Universal Studios has Volcano Bay. Each one is filled with body slides, tube slides, lazy rivers, play areas, wave pools, and so much more. Plus, tickets start at $74, which means you save a bundle over a traditional park ticket.