30 Things to Do Around Orlando When You’re Visiting Universal
Universal Orlando has so many amazing things to experience, but if you’re spending a few extra days in Central Florida, you’ll quickly find that there’s a whole world of adventure just beyond the theme parks. From beaches and gardens to museums and wildlife encounters, Orlando has something for everyone.
And the best part? You don’t need your own car to experience it all. Many of these spots are just a quick ride-share away with Uber or Lyft.
If you’d rather explore on your own schedule, you can also rent a car for just a day, which is often much more affordable and convenient than people expect. For example, Avis lets you rent and return a car right at the Doubletree Hotel at Universal Orlando!
Either way, getting around Orlando is easy, and you’ll be surprised at how much you can see beyond the parks.
Here are 30 fun things to do around Orlando when you’re visiting Universal.
1. Walt Disney World Resort
Just down the road from Universal, Disney World is a destination all on its own. With four theme parks, two water parks, and endless resorts, it’s a must-see if you’re in Orlando for more than a few days.
2. Disney Springs
Even if you’re not heading to the Disney parks, Disney Springs is worth a visit. It’s a lively shopping, dining, and entertainment district with great restaurants, unique shops, and free admission.
3. ICON Park
Located on International Drive, ICON Park is home to The Orlando Eye, a 400-foot observation wheel with incredible views of the city. There are also restaurants, bars, and attractions like SEA LIFE Aquarium and Madame Tussauds.
4. Gatorland
A classic Florida experience, Gatorland lets you get up close to alligators, crocodiles, and other wildlife. It’s part theme park, part wildlife preserve, and has fun shows and even a zip line.
5. Kennedy Space Center
About an hour from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center is an unforgettable day trip. You can see real rockets, meet astronauts, and learn about NASA’s missions past and future.
6. Lake Eola Park
If you’re looking for something more relaxing, Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando is perfect for a stroll, swan boat ride, or even a picnic. It’s a nice change of pace after the busy theme parks.
7. Shopping at The Mall at Millenia or Orlando International Premium Outlets
Orlando is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you want high-end stores at The Mall at Millenia or great deals at the outlets, you’ll find plenty of options.
8. Airboat Rides
For a real taste of Florida’s wild side, take an airboat ride through the nearby swamps and wetlands. You’ll spot gators, birds, and maybe even turtles as you glide across the water.
- Check out Boggy Creek Airboat Rides, one of the best-known companies near Orlando, offering day and night tours.
9. Head to the beach!
If you’re up for a drive, you can reach the Atlantic coast in about an hour. Cocoa Beach is a favorite for relaxing in the sand or trying out surfing.
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.
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. Discovery Cove
A sister park to SeaWorld, this all-inclusive day resort offers snorkeling in a tropical reef, lazy rivers, and the unforgettable experience of swimming with dolphins.
12. LEGOLAND Florida Resort
About 45 minutes from Orlando, LEGOLAND is perfect for families with younger kids. With rides, shows, and a water park, it’s a colorful and creative adventure.
13. Orlando Science Center
A hands-on museum with exhibits on space, dinosaurs, and technology. It’s both educational and fun, especially for kids.
14. Crayola Experience
Located at The Florida Mall, this colorful attraction lets kids (and adults!) dive into creative activities like making their own crayons and art projects.
15. Harry P. Leu Gardens
A beautiful botanical garden just outside downtown Orlando. It’s peaceful and filled with gorgeous flowers, walking paths, and historic homes.
16. Orlando Museum of Art
A cultural stop that features rotating exhibitions of American, African, and contemporary art. The Orlando Museum of Art is a great way to balance all the theme park action.
17. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
See a Broadway show, ballet, or live concert in this beautiful downtown venue.
18. Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
This relaxing guided boat ride takes you through a chain of lakes and canals lined with gorgeous homes, gardens, and wildlife.
19. Wekiwa Springs State Park
Just north of Orlando, this park is a local favorite for kayaking, swimming in crystal-clear springs, and hiking through scenic trails.
If you are looking for other parks near Orlando, you will love this list we put together!
20. Fun Spot America
An affordable amusement park with go-karts, thrill rides, and arcade games.
21. WonderWorks
This upside-down “edu-tainment” museum is packed with interactive exhibits and challenges.
22. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
High-speed indoor kart racing, arcade games, bowling, and laser tag all under one roof.
23. Topgolf Orlando
Even non-golfers love Topgolf for food, drinks, and fun games with city views.
24. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Just outside Orlando, this zoo features animals, gardens, and even a zipline course.
25. Catch a professional sports team
There are various sports teams that call Orlando home. Depending on the season and their home schedule, you may be in town to attend a game.
26. Lake Nona Town Center
A trendy area with restaurants, shops, and events, plus the Instagram-famous “Lake Nona Wave” sculptures.
27. Orlando Helicopter Tours
Get a bird’s-eye view of Universal, Disney, and downtown with a thrilling helicopter ride.
28. Kelly Park/Rock Springs
This is an absolutely beautiful natural spring, where you can go swimming, snorkeling, and tubing. We have had friends find a couple of small shark’s teeth while snorkeling here!
29. The Daytona Flea Market
This place is a blast, and it is HUGE! Our friends go there a couple of times a month. It’s so much fun to walk around in there, spend some money, and have a good lunch! There is also a delicious farmer’s market.
30. Swim with manatees
If you’re up for a 2-hour drive, head to the Crystal River, where you can swim and snorkel with manatees. There are multiple companies that operate daily tours that get you in the water.
Getting Around Orlando Without the Stress
One of the biggest questions people have when exploring beyond Universal is how to get around. The good news is that you’ve got options!
Best for Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
If you’re sticking to attractions close to International Drive or downtown Orlando, rideshare services are the easiest and most affordable way to go. These places are just a short trip from Universal:
- Disney Springs
- ICON Park
- Gatorland
- Lake Eola Park
- Mall at Millenia & Orlando International Premium Outlets
- Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
- WonderWorks
- Topgolf Orlando
Best with a Rental Car
Some Orlando-area attractions are a bit farther out and easier to enjoy if you have your own wheels for the day. The good news is that renting a car for just a day in Orlando is usually affordable, and you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace.
A car is especially helpful for:
- Kennedy Space Center (about an hour away)
- Cocoa Beach (about an hour away)
- LEGOLAND Florida Resort (45 minutes away)
- Wekiwa Springs State Park
- Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
- Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures
- Manatee tours at Crystal River
Final Thoughts
Orlando is so much more than theme parks. Whether you want thrills, wildlife, art, shopping, or beaches, there are endless ways to fill your days before or after a Universal Orlando trip. With so many unique options nearby, you’ll never run out of things to do!
Did I miss anything fun that you love to do in Orlando? If so, leave a comment below. I’d love to hear about it. 🙂
