Orlando is one of the most family friendly destinations in the world, but there is so much to see and do there beyond the big theme parks. Whether you’re still planning to do Disney and Universal Studios or are searching for alternative things to do for families in Orlando, I hope my round up of family friendly attractions will inspire you. Some of the activities featured have been tried-and-tested by me as I got to experience them during my own holiday to Orlando in 2018.
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1.Be Amazed at The Kennedy Space Centre
If theres only one thing you’re going to explore beyond the big parks, make sure its The Kennedy Space Centre. Located 60 miles east of Orlando in Cape Canavral, The Kennedy Space Centre is NASA’s primary launch site. Little astronauts will be amazed by seeing real rockets and space shuttles and can experience the anti-gravity simulators that real astronauts use for training. An awe-inspiring day out for the whole family.
2.See the Blue Man Group perform at CityWalk
The internationally renowned Blue Man Group currently have a long-standing residency at Universal’s City Walk. We were lucky enough to catch a performance during our trip to Orlando and it was definitely a highlight of the week. Watch the enigmatic blue performers create colourful spectacles of sight and sound. With no storyline or words, this is a visual and sensory experience that kids and adults will both love.
3.Ride The Wheel at Icon Park
The famous Wheel at Icon Park can be seen from all of the surrounding highways that connect Orlando’s main parks and attractions. It’s Orlando’s answer to the London Eye and has climate controlled capsules that will gently glide you to 400 foot high. TOP TIP: Ride the wheel in the evening and you might just catch some spectacular firework shows from the parks.
4.Take the Scenic Boat Trip in Winter Park
If you and the family fancy escaping the madness of the big Orlando attractions for the day, head to the quaint little town of Winter Park. The picturesque main street feels authentically American and there are plenty of upmarket boutique shops and cafes to relax in. Be sure to do the Scenic Boat Trip where you’ll be guided around Winter-Parks network of stunning lakes and lake-front properties. We were told about Winter Park and the Scenic Boat Tour by a friend and it was one of the best reccomendations I was given for my own holiday in Orlando. We loved it!
5. Check out Legoland Florida
If you’ve got a lego lover in the family you might want to take a little trip out of Orlando to visit Legoland Florida. It’s located in Central Florida’s Winter Haven which is just 45 minutes from Orlando and Tampa. There’s also a 152-room hotel on site and plenty of Lego-themed rides and shows to enjoy.
6.Take the kids for breakfast at a classic American diner
Give the kids an authentic all-American experience away from the parks by taking them for breakfast at diner. You will see endless roadside eateries and diners so simply take your pick. We visited a Wendy’s and an iHop, both of which had amazing breakfast dishes. The menus alone are fascinating!
7.Spot some famous faces at Madame Tussauds Orlando
Not everyone knows that Orlando has its very own Madame Tussauds. Rub shoulders with the world’s most famous waxwork faces and teach the kids about famous historic icons in a series of fun themed galleries.
8.Make a splash at Volcano Bay Water Park
Stay cool under the Floridian sun at Volcano Bay; Universal Studio’s water park. This is a day out that will cater to all ages and adrenaline levels. From lazy rivers and 5 passenger rafts to the extreme Ko’okiri body plunge, there is so much to discover. We spent the day at Volcano Bay and made the most of our Express Passes which allow you to jump the line in with a clever virtual queue system.
9. Do something Educational at Orlando’s Museum of Osteology
Orlando’s fascinating Museum of Osteology is home to 400 real animal and human skeletons. Visitors can get close to skeletons in never-before-seen poses and will learn all about the physiology of various species. This attraction is both fun and educational, without a ride in sight!
10.Enjoy a Family Friendly Trip to Daytona Beach
No trip to Florida is complete without spending a day at the beach! Daytona Beach was recently named a Top 10 Attraction in Florida by the Travel Channel and is located 55 miles or one hour by car from Orlando. Daytona Beach is a destination in itself with its own water park, local eateries, boardwalk and pier and the Daytona International Speedway. Not to mention the gorgeous sandy beach!
11.Challenge the family to an Escape Room at Escapology Orlando
Families with teenagers or older children can take on one of the intricate and immersive Escape Rooms at Escapology Orlando. Each escape room is based on a different theme and brings its own twists, turns and challenges. The aim of the game is to escape from the room by solving a series of different riddles and puzzles. Put your brain to the test and use your family team work.
12.Indulge in a Family Meal at the Hard Rock Cafe
Treat the family to a dining experience with a difference. The kids will be amazed by The Hard Rock Cafe Orlando at City Walk. With a full-sized pink vintage soft top car rotating on top of the bar and signed memorabilia from the worlds biggest rock stars, this is no ordinary restaurant.
13.Spend the day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom
If you only have the time or the budget to visit one of the big parks in Orlando, it has to be Disney’s Magic Kingdom. It’s definitely the most family-friendly park of them all, with plenty of tamer rides for younger children. The parade and firework display at the Magic Kingdom is also by far the most impressive of all the parks. It’s the most magical place on earth!
Want to read more of my posts about Orlando? Check out
- 19 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Universal Studios, Orlando
- What to Expect at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Orlando
What did you think of my round up of amazing things to do for families in Orlando? Is there anything else you think that should be added? Leave a comment in the box below and let me know! Jess x
This blog post has been sponsored by klook.com. All words, views and photos are my own. Klook is the home of Orlando discounted attraction tickets and tours with unique experiences.