30 Things to do Besides Disney in Orlando (2025)
As much as I love helping families experience Disney World, I always remind my clients that there’s so much more to Central Florida than Disney. When you build in a little extra time, you’ll find incredible beaches, peaceful gardens, fun museums, and unique wildlife encounters nearby.
The best part is that you don’t need a rental car for most of it. I recommend simply hopping in an Uber or Lyft to explore nearby spots.
And if you do want the flexibility of having your own vehicle, renting a car for the day is easy and usually more affordable than people expect. Disney World even has a car rental facility that partners with Enterprise, Alamo, and National. Other major companies, like Avis, also have pickup locations nearby.
No matter how you choose to get around, I promise you’ll be surprised at how much Orlando has to offer beyond the parks.
Here are 30 fun things to do around Orlando when you’re visiting Disney World.
#1. Universal Orlando Resort
The top non-Disney theme park destination in Central Florida, offering three parks, Volcano Bay, and incredible thrill rides.
- Be Prepared Vacations helps families plan their ultimate trip to Universal Orlando. Fill out a quote for today for more details!
#2. Universal’s CityWalk
Universal’s entertainment district is the perfect spot for shopping, dining, and nightlife. It’s similar to Disney Springs. Free admission!
#3. Gatorland
This classic Florida attraction offers gator shows, wildlife encounters, and even a zip line soaring above the alligators.
#4. Airboat Tours
Skim across Florida’s marshes spotting gators, turtles, and birds.
- Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures is one of the most popular operators.
#5. Lake Eola Park
A peaceful downtown escape known for its swan boats, walking trails, and skyline views.
#6. WonderWorks
Step inside the famous upside-down building for hands-on science activities, illusions, and interactive exhibits.
#7. Lake Nona Town Center
Trendy shops, restaurants, live events, and the Instagram-famous “Lake Nona Wave.”
#8. ICON Park
Ride The Orlando Eye for sweeping 400-foot views, or visit Madame Tussauds and SEA LIFE Aquarium.
#9. Topgolf Orlando
A fun nightlife spot with games, music, food, and driving bays perfect for golfers and non-golfers.
#10. SeaWorld Orlando
Known for its mix of marine life exhibits and thrilling coasters like Mako and Ice Breaker, SeaWorld combines education with adrenaline.
#11. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Catch Broadway shows, concerts, comedy tours, and ballets at this modern venue.
#12. Orlando Helicopter Tours
Take in the Disney area, Universal, and downtown Orlando from a bird’s-eye view.
#13. Kennedy Space Center
Explore NASA history, enormous rockets, and interactive exhibits. It’s one of Florida’s best day trips.
#14. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
A mix of wildlife, botanical trails, and even a zip-line adventure course.
#15. Harry P. Leu Gardens
A quiet oasis filled with roses, camellias, walking paths, and historic homes.
#16. Wekiwa Springs State Park
Swim in crystal-clear springs, kayak through tropical scenery, or hike peaceful shaded trails.
If you are looking for other nature parks near Orlando, you will love this list we put together!
#17. Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
Relax on a narrated cruise through lakes and scenic canals lined with beautiful homes and gardens.
#18. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
High-speed electric karts, bowling, laser tag, VR, and a huge arcade all under one roof.
#19. LEGOLAND Florida Resort
LEGOLAND is fun for all ages, but is especially great for families with younger kids, with rides, shows, a water park, and life-size LEGO creations.
#20. Orlando Science Center
Hands-on exhibits about dinosaurs, space, engineering, weather, and more. It’s great for families.
#21. Crayola Experience
A colorful world of art activities like crayon-making, interactive stations, and creative play.
#22. Fun Spot America
Affordable thrills, go-karts, a wooden coaster, and classic carnival rides.
#23. Shopping at The Mall at Millenia & Orlando International Premium Outlets
Orlando is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you want great deals at the outlets or high-end stores at The Mall at Millenia, you’ll find plenty of options.
#24. The Daytona Flea Market
Huge, lively, and packed with unique finds. Plus a great farmer’s market section.
#25. Kelly Park / Rock Springs
Float along the clear, spring-fed river, snorkel, or enjoy the natural beauty of the springs.
#26. Cocoa Beach
Just over an hour from Disney, this breezy beach town is perfect for swimming, making sand castles, or just relaxing on the beach.
If you enjoy fishing, I’ve taken my son to the Jetty Park Pier, and we had an absolute blast! You can even see the launch complex in the distance, and it’s where the cruise ships leave out of Port Canaveral.
#27. Swim With Manatees
Head to Crystal River (about 2 hours away) for an unforgettable manatee snorkeling experience.
#28. Orlando Museum of Art
Rotating exhibits of American, African, and contemporary works for an inspiring afternoon.
#29. Discovery Cove
An all-inclusive day resort with snorkeling, lazy rivers, and the chance to swim with dolphins.
#30. Catch a Local Sports Game
Depending on your visit dates, cheer on one of Orlando’s teams:
• Orlando Magic (NBA)
• Orlando City SC (MLS)
• Orlando Pride (NWSL)
Getting Around Orlando
Some of these attractions are just a quick rideshare away from Disney World, while others are easier with a rental car.
Best Spots for Uber/Lyft
• CityWalk
• ICON Park
• Gatorland
• Lake Eola Park
• The Mall at Millenia
• Orlando Premium Outlets
• WonderWorks
• Topgolf Orlando
Best With a Rental Car
• Kennedy Space Center
• Cocoa Beach
• LEGOLAND
• Wekiwa Springs
• Crystal River manatee tours
• Central Florida Zoo
• Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures
Final Thoughts
There’s so much to explore around Orlando when you’re visiting Disney World. From nature and wildlife to entertainment districts and beaches, your vacation can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want it to be.
If you have another favorite Orlando spot, feel free to share. I’d love to hear what you enjoy most!
