Think Orlando is just about theme parks? Think again! The natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Central Florida offer plenty of things to do in Orlando besides theme parks. With year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, Orlando is the perfect place to enjoy lush greenery, entertainment, and endless attractions with your family.
If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando besides Disney, this list showcases all of the adventures you can find as you explore the city during your upcoming family vacation in Orlando.
A tour we think you'll love
1) Try Jet Ski Rentals During Your Orlando Vacation
Nothing says “fun and sun” like skimming over the water with a carefree, wanderlust-inspired heart on a motorized jet ski. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never ridden a jet ski before! With a brief tutorial from our friendly, energized staff, you’ll be ready to operate your rental watercraft to zip off for the adventure of a lifetime.
Luxe Jet Ski Rentals is the premier provider of jet ski rentals in Orlando, Florida. We cater to families, couples, friend groups, and first-time riders looking to get their thrills out on the water in sunny Orlando.
Rest assured that your experience will be tailored to your needs and preferences when you ride with our veteran-owned company. Experience a safe, enjoyable jaunt on the water when you select one of these tour packages showcasing Orlando’s picturesque Clermont Chain of Lakes:
-
30-Minute Sea-Doo Jet Ski Rental – Exhilarating jet ski adventure with the family or a peaceful morning ride
-
60-Minute Sea-Doo Jet Ski Rental – Ideal for both thrill-seekers and those seeking a relaxing getaway
-
120-Minute Jet Ski Tour – Showing off diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife for nature enthusiasts
We offer the gear, life jackets, and instructions you need to enjoy an adrenaline-filled trip cutting through an 11-lake chain spanning Clermont and Groveland near Orlando. Each booking accommodates up to 10 guests.
Give your whole family an incredible taste of lake life in Orlando during your upcoming vacation. This is one of the best things to do in Orlando other than Disney if the goal is to make lasting memories!
Book your adventure today with Luxe Jet Ski Rentals!
2) Book A Hot Air Balloon Ride
While there’s no doubt that exploring the Orlando area by zipping through its lake system is an unforgettable experience, you might also want to consider seeing the Orlando skyline and surrounding area from the air.
Soar high above the city and take in panoramic views of the stunning landscapes, iconic theme parks, and sparkling lakes of Orlando. Whether you’re seeking a romantic adventure or a unique family outing, hot air balloon rides will surely create memories that will last a lifetime.
Several companies offer hot air balloon rides near Orlando. Here are a few to research as you collect ideas for things to do in Orlando besides theme parks:
-
Bob’s Balloons
-
Orlando Balloon Rides
-
Painted Horizons Hot Air Balloon Tours
Pro tip: The sunrise or sunset rides offer a truly enchanting experience, as the vibrant colors paint the sky.
3) Visit The Orlando Science Center
This educational and exciting museum for all ages features live programming, exhibits, theaters, and so much more. Here’s a rundown of the exhibit halls where your family will marvel at science, nature, and other wonders:
-
The Science of Guinness World Records
-
Life: Animals, Humans, and Climate
-
KidsTown
-
Kinetic Zone
-
DinoDigs
-
Our Planet, Our Solar System
-
Fusion: A STEAM Gallery
-
Food Heroes
-
Tiny Green Home
Pro tip: This is a great mid-afternoon stop! Don’t miss the chance to take a break from the sun and get inside this museum to explore so many interesting topics and discoveries!
4) Check Out Orlando’s Butterfly Gardens
Yes, we said gardens. It’s not surprising that a place that’s so full of magic would have more than one butterfly garden. A popular choice is the Mead Botanical Garden which houses two butterfly gardens located near portions called the Discover Barn and Winter Park Garden Club.
The Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter is another popular option in the Orlando area. Featuring a 4,000-foot conservatory, this year-round attraction is home to butterflies, exotic finches, and Chinese button quail.
Finally, a spot called the Harry P. Leu Gardens shows off butterflies amid a backdrop of rainforest gardens, rose gardens, bamboo and banana plants, and so much more!
5) Relax At Lake Eola Park
Here’s a great free Orlando attraction that will delight your family. A popular spot for concerts and year-round events offering family-friendly fun, Lake Eola Park is a park located in Downtown Orlando that is home to the Walt Disney Amphitheater.
While this park is a great place to simply take a breather, you can also rent a swan-shaped paddle boat, photograph the real swans, watch a play in the Walt Disney Amphitheater, and enjoy gorgeous views of the city’s skyline.
The park also features a playground for children, making it a perfect spot for families to unwind and enjoy some quality time together. For fitness enthusiasts, there are jogging trails and a fitness area where you can engage in outdoor workouts. The path circling the lake is 0.9 miles in length.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, recreation, or a vibrant community atmosphere, Lake Eola Park is a must-visit destination in Orlando.
6) Visit The Space Coast
Are there any science lovers in your travel crew? You don’t want to miss the chance to visit the iconic Kennedy Space Center! This NASA-operated attraction is so impressive that you’ll want to devote a full day to your visit. Located on Merritt Island, the Kennedy Space Center covers 219 square miles of land which includes 6,000 acres for facilities and roads. Visitors can embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the history of space travel, witnessing actual rockets and spacecraft up close.
The Space Coast is also renowned for its pristine beaches, where you can soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or try your hand at various water sports. Nature lovers will love the abundance of wildlife and the opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems of the nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Pro tip: Of course, you’ll want to also spend time exploring Cape Canaveral and the Cape Canaveral Space Force Museum as part of a full Space Coast tour!
7) See The Atlantic Coast Line Station
If you’re interested in seeing a National Historic Landmark, the Atlantic Coastline Station is a treasured spot dating back to Florida’s great land rush during the 1920s. The station is considered one of the finest examples of Mission Revival architecture in Central Florida.
Visiting the Atlantic Coast Line Station is not just about admiring a beautiful building; it’s about immersing yourself in history, experiencing the magic of rail travel, and connecting with the city’s past.
Learn about the station’s role in connecting Orlando to other destinations along the east coast of Florida. Discover the stories of the people who passed through its doors and the impact of the railroad on the city’s growth and development.
So, whether you’re a history buff, a train enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, make sure to add the station to your Orlando itinerary.
This is a working station that currently services Orlando’s Amtrak line and SunRail commuter train.
Enjoy Incredible Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks
There’s nothing wrong with coming to Orlando to enjoy the theme parks! However, you want to make sure that you don’t let the hidden beauty of this vibrant city slip through your fingers. Luxe Jet Ski Rentals is here to make sure that your opportunity to zip over the bejeweled lakes of Orlando doesn’t pass you by!
Due to the popularity of our tours, we recommend booking your reservations as far in advance of your vacation as possible. Let Florida’s natural beauty be your entertainment!
