Orlando is already a famous family destination, with fantastic well-known attractions like Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World. We took a look at some other gorgeous activities to entertain you and the kids so that you can get a sense of the real Florida experience! Here’s our 10 Best Things to do in Orlando with Kids.
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#1. Discovery Cove, Orlando
Discovery Cove has to be one of the best days out ever! Together with your kids you can swim with bottlenose dolphins, feed tropical birds and walk on the ocean floor surrounded by over 7,000 tropical fish! There’s even a beach & lazy river to relax in!
Staff are kind and helpful and you are instructed in the correct way to interact with the animals before you come into contact with them. Entry is pricey but all your food and drink (even beer and wine) are included with admission. You can also visit Sea World, and Aquatica in the following 14 days for free.
#2. Go Wild at Gatorland
Fun for all ages, this is the real Florida without the glitz and glamour! The ‘Alligator Capital of the World,’ Gatorland is home to a variety of alligators and crocodiles — including some very rare white alligators. For something a little different, pick up a torch and do the Night Shine tour which takes place at dusk!
“Gatorland is perfect for families.” Gail P.
#3. Story-time or Out-door movie at Leu Gardens
There’s more to Leu Gardens than the stunning gardens and fragrant flowers and plants. You can enjoy an outdoor movie experience on select Friday evenings and there are regular story-time sessions and live music performances. Visit the Library, or historic Leu House, and enjoy a lovely family picnic!
#4. Relax in Lake Eola Park
Providing a quiet oasis in the centre of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is the perfect place for a picnic, to feed the swans or to take a walk. The stunning fountain is the official symbol of Orlando and it comes alive each night to music and changing lights in a 6 minute show at 8pm & 9.30pm. Beautiful swan shaped paddle boats are available to rent during the day. Visit on a Sunday and enjoy Lake Eola Farmers Market!
“Lake Eola Farmers Market is a lot of fun- live music and an afternoon beer garden.” Gail P.
Image: http://commons.wikimedia.org/
#5. Stoll International Drive
International Drive is a great place for photos and is one of the most popular streets in Orlando. There are lots of shops and plenty of restaurants to choose from and you can also visit Ripley’s Believe it or Not or WonderWorks or sign-up for a game of laser-tag!
#6. Delicious Chocolate Heaven
Who doesn’t want to visit a chocolate factory? Every age group will enjoy a visit to Farris and Fosters in Winter Park to make their own yummy chocolate creations! The selection of toppings, fillings & moulds is huge and after some brief instructions, it’s over to you! Best of all, you can take them home to enjoy!
“My son and I really enjoyed making chocolate in Winter Park –Farris and Fosters. It was the best :)” Madeline Y.
#7. Experiment at Orlando Science Center
There is so much to see and do at the Orlando Science Center! The venue boasts four floors of changing exhibits, including:
- A dinosaur dig.
- Plenty of hands-on science experiments.
- Giant screen films.
- Planetarium shows.
There’s regular Little Explorers and Little Learners programmes to engage your little ones!
Dora Diego Exhibit, Orlando Science Museum
#8. Take a Splash in Florida Springs
On a hot summer’s day, there’s nothing better than taking a dip in a Florida Spring such as the one in Blue Spring State Park. The lake is fed from a natural spring so the water is clear and blue and when it’s cool, manatees make their way into view. Some days you will spot up to 200!
Other activities include:
- A shaded boardwalk & picnic areas.
- Boat & canoe hire.
- Guided boat trips to view all the natural wildlife.
- A historical house & cafés.
#9. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf is a fantastic place to spend a few hours with the kids! There is a choice of 2 challenging courses but nothing too difficult. The scenery and landscaping is beautiful and the younger ones will love playing on the pirate ship!
#10. Explore Orlando Museum of Art
With regular fun gallery activities, Orlando Museum of Art displays local, national and international works of art. The museum also features two discovery centers for children providing them with interactive programmes. Family-friendly guides are available to help you understand the various art collections on view.
What would you add to this list of the best things to do in Orlando with kids? We’d love to hear your suggestions, so please let us know below.
If you’re travelling with kids to other city destinations in the US, check out Free Things to do in Dallas or Free Things to do with Kids in Atlanta.
