When most people think of Orlando, they picture Disney World and Universal Studios. I will admit, I was one of those people too. And while the theme parks are certainly a big part of what makes Orlando such a popular vacation destination, there is much more to discover.
From crystal-clear natural springs and scenic waterways to charming downtown neighborhoods, local restaurants, and outdoor adventures, Orlando has plenty to offer visitors who want to experience something beyond the theme park gates.
Whether you’re planning a full week in Orlando or simply looking for a few different activities to add to your itinerary, here are 10 experiences worth making time for on your next trip.
Where to Stay in Orlando
One of the advantages of visiting Orlando is the wide variety of accommodation options. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or as a family, choosing the right place to stay can make exploring the region much easier.
If you plan to spend time both at the theme parks and discovering the surrounding area, consider a resort with amenities that make downtime just as enjoyable as your days out exploring.
Before booking your trip, take some time to view Orlando resorts and compare options with swimming pools, water parks, on-site dining, and spacious accommodations. Having somewhere comfortable to relax between adventures can make a big difference, especially when you’re planning a longer stay.
1. Swim in the Natural Springs at Wekiwa Springs State Park
One of the best ways to experience Florida’s natural beauty is to visit Wekiwa Springs State Park, located about 30 minutes north of downtown Orlando, depending on traffic.
The park is known for its crystal-clear spring water, which stays around 72°F / 22°C throughout the year. Visitors can swim, enjoy a picnic beneath the trees, or explore the park’s hiking trails.
2. Kayak Along the Wekiva River
Central Florida has some beautiful waterways, and exploring them by kayak or canoe offers a completely different perspective on the region. The Wekiva River winds through a landscape of cypress trees, wetlands, and lush vegetation. It’s a designated National Wild and Scenic River and a popular destination for paddling.
Several outfitters in the area offer kayak and canoe rentals, making it possible to spend a few hours on the water without bringing your own equipment. Keep an eye out for turtles, wading birds, and other native wildlife along the riverbanks. Alligators also inhabit Florida’s waterways, so it’s important to keep a safe distance from wildlife.
3. Take an Airboat Ride Through Central Florida’s Wetlands
You don’t have to travel all the way to South Florida’s Everglades National Park to experience an airboat adventure. Central Florida has its own expansive wetlands, where airboat tours take visitors across shallow waterways and grassy marshes in search of native wildlife.
For the best experience, choose a guided tour that emphasizes the local ecosystem and responsible wildlife viewing rather than captive animal encounters.
4. Spend an Afternoon Exploring Winter Park
Just north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park offers a completely different atmosphere from the busy tourist corridors. Its tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, art galleries, and sidewalk restaurants make it a lovely place to spend a relaxed afternoon.
Park Avenue is the heart of the neighborhood, with plenty of opportunities to browse the shops, stop for coffee, or enjoy lunch outdoors. Winter Park is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, which is known for its collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
5. Take the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
While you’re in Winter Park, consider taking the Scenic Boat Tour, one of the area’s long-running visitor experiences. The narrated boat ride travels across several lakes and through narrow canals lined with tropical vegetation.
Along the way, you’ll pass waterfront homes, beautiful gardens, and natural scenery while learning about the history of Winter Park.
6. Discover Orlando’s Local Food Scene in Mills 50
Orlando’s food scene extends far beyond the restaurants and dining experiences found at its theme parks. For something different, head to the Mills 50 District, a neighborhood known for its independent restaurants, international flavors, and colorful street art.
The area has a particularly strong Asian dining scene, with Vietnamese restaurants, bakeries, and other locally owned businesses offering plenty of choices for an informal food adventure.
7. Explore Historic Downtown Winter Garden
About 30 minutes west of downtown Orlando, Winter Garden is another community worth adding to your itinerary. Its historic downtown features brick-lined streets, locally owned shops, restaurants, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Plant Street is the main attraction, where visitors can browse boutiques, grab a coffee, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants. The popular West Orange Trail also passes through downtown, making Winter Garden a convenient stop for anyone interested in combining sightseeing with a bike ride.
8. Cycle the West Orange Trail
For travelers who enjoy staying active on vacation, the West Orange Trail is one of Central Florida’s best recreational trails. This paved multi-use trail stretches approximately 22 miles through communities, wooded areas, and scenic landscapes west of Orlando.
You don’t need to cycle the entire route to enjoy it. Renting a bike and exploring a shorter section is an easy way to spend a morning outdoors.
9. Experience Orlando’s Arts and Culture
Orlando has a growing arts and cultural scene that deserves a place on your itinerary, particularly if you’re looking for something to do away from the theme parks.
The Orlando Museum of Art features exhibitions spanning different artistic styles and periods, while the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts, theater productions, and other live performances.
For a more casual cultural experience, explore the murals and public art found throughout neighborhoods such as Mills 50 and downtown Orlando.
10. Plan a Day to Enjoy Your Resort
With so many attractions and activities in Orlando, it’s tempting to fill every day of your vacation from morning until night. But one of the best things you can do is leave some time in your itinerary to simply relax.
Many Orlando resorts offer extensive amenities, including swimming pools, water parks, restaurants, spas, and recreational activities. Instead of treating your accommodation as somewhere to sleep between outings, consider planning an entire morning or afternoon to enjoy what’s available on-site.
Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.