You need to visit these places in Orlando (besides the theme parks)

You need to visit these places in Orlando (besides the theme parks)

October 28, 2023

Certainly, you’ve already planned your travel itinerary for the Orlando theme parks. 

We’ve already recommended 10 places to visit in Orlando besides the parks on our blog, and today we want to give you some more valuable tips on places you need to explore that will make a difference in your vacation in the region. 

We’re committed to providing tips on well-known locations as well as more local attractions. Since we are a company based in Orlando and live in the city, we prioritize sharing our local insights with our customers. 

So, read below for our recommendations and start jotting down the ones that resonate with you the most. 

Cirque Du Soleil 

The city’s show is called “Drawn to Life,” and it features references from Disney. In the plot, you can follow the passion of a daughter and her father for drawing. 

Acrobatics, dancing, music, and many visual effects will impress your entire family. 

Harry P. Leu Gardens 

The botanical garden was founded by the Leu family, who lived on the site until 1961 and is perfect for nature lovers. 

In addition to admiring many beautiful plants, you and your family can visit the house filled with antique items and stroll through the gardens, including Florida’s largest rose garden! 

 

Universal City Walk 

This is a complex at Universal Orlando with plenty of entertainment, especially bars and restaurants. Many of them stay open until the early hours, around 2 a.m., making it perfect for a late-night snack if you’re returning from an outing. 

An evening stroll at Universal City Walk is also great for shopping and enjoying the view of the nearby lake. 

Orlando Tree Trek 

If you and your family love being close to nature, especially activities like tree trekking, this place is perfect for you. 

Visitors walk on trails above the trees at four difficulty levels. At the end of each stage, there’s a zip line that takes you to the next ladder leading to the next level. 

There are also special courses for children, but it’s worth mentioning that entry is only allowed for children aged 6 and above, who can reach 1.40 meters (55 inches) with their arms extended. 

Crayola Experience 

A perfect experience for the little ones, especially those who like drawing and coloring. The space is dedicated entirely to crayons, and you can learn about the manufacturing process and even create your own. 

Games, playgrounds, and coloring spaces are part of the visit, stimulating children’s creativity. 

Hot Air Balloon Ride 

Flying in a hot air balloon is an incredible experience, and it becomes even more magical in the Orlando area. 

You can take this journey with some companies in the Kissimmee and Davenport region. The flights are at dawn, and the entire process, from inflating the balloon, ascending, flying, and descending, can last approximately 4 hours. 

This is a great opportunity to see the Orlando region from a different perspective: from the heights! 

Community Playground at Lake Mendes 

This tip is perfect if you’re traveling with children. On the shores of Lake Mendes, you’ll find the Winter Park Playground, a castle-shaped playground with slides and lots of fun. 

You can combine a visit to the playground with a family walk in Winter Park. 

Celebration 

This is a quick excursion that is worth including in your itinerary. Planned by Disney, this is a community with about 8,000 residents. 

The entire setting looks like something out of a movie and indeed appears to be the perfect city to live in. Disney no longer manages it, but the area has restaurants, shops, and guarantees beautiful photos. 

Wonderworks 

The famous upside-down house is one of the most sought-after attractions by Orlando visitors. 

If you want more than just a photo in front of this unique residence, you can take an indoor tour that functions like a museum with explanations and exhibitions. 

Paddling Center 

If you enjoy water sports, you’ll love this park. The source of the Everglades is in Kissimmee and forms one of the largest ecosystems in Florida. 

Here, you can rent stand-up paddleboards and kayaks and even take guided tours. There are about 10 kilometers of breathtaking routes in the midst of nature. 

Shopping at Malls and Outlets 

 Of course, Orlando’s famous shopping couldn’t be left out of our article, and we’ll tell you about our favorite tips for this moment of your trip. 

 Take note of these three places to visit, and we guarantee you’ll leave with plenty of shopping bags. 

 Orlando International Premium Outlets – A wide variety of stores from great brands like Adidas, Banana Republic, Columbia, Carter’s, GAP, and much more.  

We recommend visiting on sunny days since it’s an open-air location. 

Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets – This complex is smaller, making it easier to visit and find your favorite stores.  

In addition to the traditional stores of beloved brands, you’ll also find luxury brands like Prada and Gucci, for example. This is a great option if you’re looking for both designer and popular brand products. 

Florida Mall – Simply the largest mall in Florida. Here, you’ll find very good prices, sometimes equal to or even cheaper than those at the outlets.  

The place is spacious, and you’ll find classic stores like MAC, GAP, Apple, H&M, and many other favorites among tourists. If it’s raining, this is a great option for a visit since it’s all indoors and also has a great restaurant structure. 

Renting a Stroller and Car Seat 

 If you’re traveling with children, don’t forget to rent a stroller and a car seat in advance. 

 Having a perfect itinerary to enjoy the region won’t help if your child gets exhausted on the first outing, asking to be carried, falling asleep… The stroller will ensure the little one’s comfort and the enjoyment of the entire family. 

 Here at StrollerCare, we bring the stroller to you because we know how important it is to have a company supporting you during your dream vacation. Contact our team in the blog chat to learn more about the ideal model for your child and get the best quote in the region. 

 

Images:

P. Leu Gardens – site Expedia

Air balloon –  site Gazeta News

Outlets – site TimeOut