Best 20 things to do in Orlando, United States

Looking for awesome things to do in Orlando? We've got you covered! From swashbuckling adventures at Pirates Dinner Adventure to contemplating life decisions at the Harry P. Leu Gardens (we're serious), Orlando has it all. And whatever you do, please resist the urge to challenge Mickey Mouse to a dance-off at the Magic Kingdom, because let's face it, you're no Justin Timberlake.

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1. Universal Studios

4.7 (124462)

6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Welcome to Universal Studios in Orlando! This incredible theme park is like the perfect cocktail of excitement, wonder, and a shameless selfie opportunity. Brace yourself for heart-thumping rides that will make you question your life choices, movie-themed attractions where you'll actually feel like part of the action, and enough magical wizardry to make Hogwarts wizards green with envy. With a sprinkle of pop culture, a dash of adrenaline, and a whole lot of fun, Universal Studios is a never-ending roller coaster for your senses.

www.universalorlando.com

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2. Disney World

4.7 (237445)

Orlando, FL, USA

Welcome to Disney World in Orlando, the happiest place on Earth and your gateway to an enchanting realm! Brace yourself for a magical extravaganza as you step foot into this fantastical wonderland; your jaws may very well experience a severe dislocation from the perpetual state of awe they'll be in! Prepare to befriend talking mice, dance with princesses and, if you're lucky enough, have Goofy awkwardly photobomb your family pictures like an avant-garde artist. At Disney World, you'll embark on daring adventures that will make Indiana Jones seek professional help for being utterly outdone. With rides that catapult you into the skyscraping clutches of dragons and plunge you into the mysterious depths of the oceans, you'll leave with a yearning for more adrenaline (and possibly a longing for a pause button on life itself). Just remember to bring spare socks because you may be too busy laughing your socks off at the hilarity that awaits around every corner!

disneyworld.disney.go.com

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3. Hollywood Studios

4.6 (123025)

Bay Lake, FL 34747, USA

Welcome to Hollywood Studios in Orlando, where you can play the role of a glamorous VIP or just pretend to be totally in the know about showbiz! This movie-themed park transforms every visitor into an honorary Spielberg, so leave your ordinary life behind and prepare for a star-studded adventure. From thrilling Hollywood-style rides to jaw-dropping live performances, it's like being in the movies, but with fewer paparazzi and more Mickey Mouse ears!

disneyworld.disney.go.com

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4. Epcot

4.7 (131452)

Bay Lake, FL, USA

Welcome to Epcot, the diverse and undoubtedly peculiar theme park where you'll be skipping continents like a professional pole vaulter. Take a break from the cheery rodents and prepare for a cultural journey where you'll witness more flags than a 4th of July parade, and potentially learn more than at any stuffy textbook-driven class. Don't be alarmed if you bump into Norwegian Viking warriors buying French pastries - this is just another day in the bewildering mashup that is Epcot.

disneyworld.disney.go.com

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5. The Coca-Cola Orlando Eye

4.6 (39277)

8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Welcome to the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, a towering marvel that promises to give you "high" levels of excitement. Don't fret, this isn't a dentist's worst nightmare - it's a giant observation wheel granting panoramic views of the city. So buckle up, grab your fizzy cola, and prepare to sway in the sky, all while dodging the occasional rogue seagull for that extra adrenaline rush.

iconparkorlando.com

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6. Gatorland

4.6 (19874)

14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837, USA

Welcome to Gatorland, where the wild meets the wacky in the heart of Orlando! Step inside this eccentric wonderland and prepare to be greeted by more gators than your wildest reptilian dreams could ever conjure. Don't be alarmed if you catch one eyeing you suspiciously; they're just assessing whether you'd make a tasty visitor snack or an intriguing selfie partner. Beyond gator encounters, this quirky oasis offers an array of thrilling attractions to ignite your adventurous spirit. Strap in for a wild journey aboard the infamous Gator Gauntlet roller coaster, where you'll either whoop with excitement or close your eyes in sheer terror (just don't drop your funnel cake!). For the daredevils out there, the Stompin' Gator Off-Road Adventure will have you bouncing, bucking, and bobbing your way through the marshlands in a zany monster vehicle that could probably survive an apocalypse. There's no escaping the Gatorland charm, and with lively live shows that will leave you chomping with laughter, you'll quickly understand why this bizarre yet captivating park has found its way into the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Whether you're holding toothy reptiles, exploring aviaries teeming with vibrant birds, or witnessing a brave soul wrestle a gator (with the gator, we hope), Gatorland promises a truly unique and unforgettable Floridian experience. Just remember: sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a sense of humor are essential survival tools for this untamed adventure!

www.gatorland.com

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7. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

4 (108)

9339 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827, USA

Welcome to the wildest space adventure this side of the Milky Way - the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex! Get ready to blast off on a tour that's sure to make your mind orbit! Delight in a mind-boggling collection of rocket relics, moon rocks, and space gadgets that will make you question everything you thought you knew about gravity. And don't miss a chance to meet real-life astronauts, because let's face it, who doesn't want to swap stories with someone who's been to space and back? So, buckle up and prepare for an otherworldly experience that's more fun than a monkey in a spacesuit - the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is waiting to launch your imagination into the stratosphere!

www.kennedyspacecenter.com

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8. Madame Tussauds Orlando

4.6 (6742)

8387 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey in the heart of Orlando? Step into Madame Tussauds, the phenomenal wax museum that brings your wildest dreams to life, well, sort of. Encounter an impressive collection of jaw-droppingly lifelike statues where you can cozy up next to your favorite celebrities, like Beyoncé or Brad Pitt, without them even batting an (wax) eyelash. So, get your camera ready for an unforgettable experience that will leave you desperately trying to avoid conversations with your friends about how you've suddenly become a close personal friend of Taylor Swift.

www.madametussauds.com

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9. Orlando Museum of Art

4.6 (1931)

2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

Welcome to the Orlando Museum of Art, where you can leave your outdated notions of conventional art at the door and enter a world where unique masterpieces and avant-garde exhibits collide with your imagination. Take a whimsical stroll through the vibrant galleries, where traditional art is anything but traditional, and modern art is that cool friend who always wears funky socks. Be prepared to let your creative soul run wild and contemplate life's deepest questions, like why does that sculpture look like it was made out of cheese? It's a visual feast that will delight even the quirkiest of art lovers!

www.omart.org

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10. Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

4.5 (35269)

8200 Vineland Ave, Orlando, FL 32821, USA

Step into the enchanting realm of shopping extravaganza at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, where even the most budget-conscious souls find themselves tempted to splurge on fabulous deals. Nestled amidst the bustling city, this retail paradise offers a respite from the mayhem of theme parks, allowing visitors to lose themselves in a maze of designer stores. Prepare to embark on a journey of retail therapy, where fashionistas can hunt down their prey with the ferocity of a shopaholic lioness on a prowl.

www.premiumoutlets.com

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11. The Mall at Millenia

4.6 (25476)

4200 Conroy Rd, Orlando, FL 32839, USA

Welcome to The Mall at Millenia in picturesque Orlando, where enchantment meets credit card limits! Indulge your inner shopaholic in this upscale retail haven that is more than just a mall - it's a playground for fashion fiends and treasure hunters alike. Prepare to be astounded by the impressive architecture, luxurious stores, and the sheer number of people willing to risk their sanity in the quest for the perfect pair of shoes.

www.mallatmillenia.com

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12. Islands of Adventure

4.7 (86590)

6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Welcome to Islands of Adventure in sunny Orlando, where surreal sights and thrilling escapades await! Brace yourself for a dose of excitement as you embark on hair-raising adventures in this whimsical playground for the young at heart. Journey through the mystical realm of Hogwarts, where muggles transform into wizards faster than you can say "Accio Butterbeer!" Marvel at the jaw-dropping feats of superheroes and dinosaurs alike, as you navigate the treacherous path to your ultimate vacation victory.

www.universalorlando.com

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13. Lake Eola Park

4.7 (20462)

512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

Welcome to Lake Eola Park, where ducks reign as the mightiest rulers of the water-based kingdom! This urban oasis, located right in the heart of Orlando, is a bird's paradise with more feathered friends than a Hitchcock movie. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoy the picturesque view, and if you're brave enough, try to engage in a staring contest with the resident swans – just be prepared to lose!

www.orlando.gov

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14. Discovery Cove

4.8 (10694)

6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821, USA

Welcome to Discovery Cove in Orlando, where you'll feel like you've stumbled into a whimsical water wonderland. Dive into a world where you can swim with dolphins, snorkel among tropical fish, and pretend you're Ariel from "The Little Mermaid" (don't forget to sing, it's encouraged!). Forget about being a landlubber, because at Discovery Cove, the ocean enthusiasts will be in their element, literally!

discoverycove.com

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15. Harry P. Leu Gardens

4.7 (4595)

1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

Welcome to Harry P. Leu Gardens, the green oasis amidst the land of mouse-eared wonders and sunburnt tourists! This enchanting escape is an ever-blooming paradise, where flowers flaunt their colors like they're competing in a botanical fashion show. Stroll through the garden's fairytale-like paths and you'll feel like you stumbled into a secret world where not everything is mouse-shaped or coated in sunscreen.

www.leugardens.org

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16. Animal Kingdom

4.7 (115919)

2901 Osceola Pkwy, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, USA

Welcome to Animal Kingdom in sunny Orlando, where wildlife meets Mickey's magic! Prepare to embark on a wild adventure that will have you roaring with laughter and tapping your paws in sheer delight. From exhilarating safaris to thrilling expeditions, this one-of-a-kind theme park is where you can unleash your inner animal and have a wild time like no other!

disneyworld.disney.go.com

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17. Orlando Science Center

4.6 (6835)

777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

Welcome to the Orlando Science Center, a place where you can embrace your inner geek and unleash your curiosity to the fullest. Here, learning is more exciting than watching a squirrel chase its own tail; it's like a rollercoaster ride of knowledge, minus the screaming (well, most of the time). Prepare to be captivated by mind-boggling exhibits, hands-on experiments that may or may not result in explosions, and the chance to experience a world where science is the coolest kid on the block.

www.osc.org

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18. SeaWorld Orlando

4.5 (92567)

7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, USA

Welcome to SeaWorld Orlando, where you can plunge into a world of marine marvels! Get ready to frolic with flipper-esque friends, test your bravery on spine-tingling rides, and witness epic splash battles that will leave you soaked and speechless. This aquatic wonderland is like an amusement park meets fish fashion show, where you can strut alongside majestic whales, shimmy with playful dolphins, and dine with the fishes (and not in a mobster way!).

seaworld.com

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19. Magic Kingdom

4.6 (206378)

Bay Lake, FL 32836, USA

Welcome to the magnificent land of Magic Kingdom in Orlando, where dreams come alive and grown-ups temporarily forget about their unpaid bills! Marvel at the iconic Cinderella Castle, a structure so enchanting that it puts even the most decked-out birthday cakes to shame – no sprinkles necessary! As you wander through this whimsical wonderland, keep an eye out for Mickey Mouse and his posse, who roam about in adorable attire, leaving a trail of laughter in their wake.

disneyworld.disney.go.com

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20. International Drive

International Dr, Orlando, FL, USA

Welcome to the wild world of International Drive in Orlando, where you can find more entertainment options than you can shake a turkey leg at. This bustling stretch of road is a melting pot of attractions, restaurants, and shops, all competing for your precious vacation dollars. Brace yourself for traffic jams and tourists in matching Mickey Mouse shirts, as you embark on an adventure that's part amusement park, part shopping extravaganza, and all rollercoaster ride.

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Orlando via plane is to fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) from your starting location. Many major airlines operate flights to this airport, making it easily accessible from most destinations.

Car

The best way to get to Orlando by car is to take the I-4, which runs through the heart of Orlando. This route connects to major highways in the region, making it easily accessible from various cities within Florida and neighboring states.

Train

There is no direct train to Orlando, but Amtrak offers services from various cities to the Orlando station. The best way to get to Orlando by train would be to take a train to a nearby city such as Jacksonville and then take a bus or rental car to Orlando.

Boat

While there are no direct routes to Orlando by boat, the closest ports are in Port Canaveral and Tampa. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Orlando. However, it is important to note that these options can be more time-consuming and expensive compared to other modes of transportation.

Bus

Greyhound offers services to Orlando from multiple cities across the United States. The best way to get to Orlando by bus would be to book a direct trip from your starting location to Orlando.

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Adventure-packed 4 day Orlando escape

A trip to Orlando, United States as a tourist offers you a chance to indulge in some of the world's finest theme parks, including Disney's Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. With an abundance of museums and theaters, you can explore the city's cultural and artistic offerings. Orlando's vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene add to the experience of this city, making it a traveler's paradise.

Orlando Adventure: A One-Day Extravaganza

A trip to Orlando, United States as a tourist promises to be an experience of a lifetime. Whether you're visiting for the world-famous amusement parks, indulging in the vibrant nightlife, or exploring the scenic natural wonders, Orlando has something for everyone. From Walt Disney World and Universal Studios to shopping at the Mall at Millenia, there's no shortage of exciting activities for tourists to explore in this magical city.

4 Days of Fun: Orlando on a Budget

Orlando is a popular tourist destination in the United States, renowned for its theme parks, entertainment, and attractions. For a budget trip to Orlando, consider staying in a budget-friendly hotel or rental property, opting for discounted theme park tickets or passes, and exploring free activities and events in the area. Some must-see spots include Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and the Orlando Eye.

Orlando on a Budget: A Taste Adventure

A budget-friendly trip to Orlando could include a visit to some of the city's free attractions, such as Lake Eola Park and the Disney Springs shopping area. An affordable option for accommodation could be a stay at a budget hotel or motel located outside of the main tourist areas. Food costs can be reduced by opting for local eateries and grocery store snacks instead of expensive theme park restaurants.