My top picks of things to do outside of theme parks when in Orlando
Kennedy Space Centre – over on the Space Coast this is one of James’ favourite things to do outside of the park. It takes about an hour to drive to Kennedy from the Orlando area. This is a relatively easy drive mostly on the interstate. We all loved our day at Kennedy – a really nice alternative from the sometimes frantic pace of the theme park.
Visit a Mall - Orlando has it’s fair share of really excellent options for Mall shopping. This type of environment can be a relief out of the heat or tropical storms. My two favourite Malls in the area are The Mall at Millenia (we like The Cheesecake Factory here!) and Florida Mall. Florida Mall has an American Girl shop – a must do for any little girl!
International Drive – this area is an attraction in itself! Take the I-ride Trolley to get around International Drive without a car, visit Icon Park with the Orlando Eye as it’s centre piece or visit Wonderworks a STEM based interactive museum. It’s really worth taking a look at International Drive and all it has to offer during your time in Orlando.
Airboat Tours – zip through the Everglades on an airboat keeping an eye out for ‘Gaters and other wildlife native to the Orlando Everglades. This is such a fantastic alternative side of Florida to see and the airboat ride can be just as exhilarating as a theme park ride!
Swim with Manatees – manatees are majestic animals and fiercely protected by Florida Law. If you do want to swim with them you must never approach or touch them. They are inquisitive creatures and so may come to you. Crystal River sits about an hour and 45 minutes away from the Greater Orlando area, so it’s worth booking in advance to guarantee your spot! Visit the beach - the theme parks of Orlando are centrally situated between the Gulf of Mexico and the wilder Atlantic Coast. Head an hour East and reach Cocoa Beach with 6 miles of Atlantic Ocean beach you are sure to find the ideal spot. If the white sands of the Caribbean are more your style then head West to Clearwater and other spots on the Gulf of Mexico – you really are spoilt for choice with beaches in the area!
Eat and Drink at Disney Springs – I love Disney Springs and all of the food offerings that there is around this area. Parking is free, so it’s an easy spot to head to in the evenings for a bite to eat and to enjoy the entertainment that you see as you walk through this lovely pedestrianised area. It can get busy as the evening progresses, so go early to be able to walk around at your leisure and enjoy everything that Disney Springs has to offer.
Cirque du soleil - although still on Disney property I class Drawn to Life in Disney Springs as outside of the theme parks as you don’t need a theme park admission to enter. Drawn to life is truly breathtaking and worth a visit to Disney Springs just for this (although as I’ve just said the food and drink in Disney Springs is also not to be missed!). If this is a top priority for you then do buy tickets in advance. This show is popular and can sell out at busy times of year.
There is so much to do in Orlando beyond the parks and this list really does just scratch the surface. I’d love to hear your favourite things to do while in Orlando, or is there something that you are planning on doing the next time you are there?
