Top 23 Family-Friendly Activities in Orlando: Theme Parks & Nature Adventures

Orlando is renowned for being a family-friendly travel destination. With a plethora of exciting attractions including world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort, vibrant restaurants, and beautiful outdoor parks, it offers endless fun for visitors of all ages. Consequently, if you are planning a family trip, here are 23 of the best activities to do with kids in Orlando.

1. Snorkel at Wekiwa Springs State Park

The gorgeous fresh water bubbling up from underground at Wekiwa Springs State Park stays a cool 72 degrees year-round and boasts beautiful green and blue hues reminiscent of the Caribbean. Located 14 miles north of downtown Orlando, this park offers camping and snorkeling adventures, creating a slice of the real Florida for families.

2. Ride the Sunrail between Winter Park and Orlando

In a city dominated by cars and shuttles, give the kids a taste of rail life by boarding the Sunrail train. This commuter train runs between downtown Orlando’s Church Street District and charming Winter Park, among other stops, offering a unique perspective on the area.

3. Rent a swan boat to cruise around Lake Eola

Explore Lake Eola, the centerpiece of downtown Orlando, by renting a giant swan-shaped boat. This pedal-powered adventure provides kids with an up-close view of the fountain at the lake’s center and allows them to see real swans swimming nearby.

4. Go back in time to the wreck of the Titanic

Kids and adults fascinated by the legendary shipwreck can immerse themselves in history at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Here, costumed actors and recreations of rooms aboard the Titanic bring the fateful 1912 voyage to life. Don’t miss the replica of the Grand Staircase!

5. Travel the world at Epcot

Walt Disney World’s EPCOT theme park boasts exhilarating rides inspired by real and fictional places. The Soarin’ Around the World attraction offers an unforgettable experience as children soar above iconic landmarks, including the Great Wall of China and Walt Disney World itself. Moreover, walking through the World Showcase will introduce them to global sights and tastes.

6. Spend Sunday at the Orlando Farmer’s Market

The beloved Orlando Farmers Market, held every Sunday around Lake Eola, attracts locals and tourists alike. It’s a vibrant spot to shop for fresh Florida produce, enjoy live music in the beer garden, or allow kids to burn off some energy in the park’s playground.

7. Go for a family bike ride along the West Orange Trail

Embark on a cycling adventure on the scenic West Orange Trail, a 22-mile long path located in historic Winter Garden. West of Orlando, this bike trail is lined with shops, breweries, and cafes. Families can conveniently rent bikes from Bikes & Blades.

8. Tube down a river at Kelly Park Rock Springs

While Florida is famous for its coastline, the Orlando area also features stunning lakes and freshwater springs. At Kelly Park Rock Springs, families can rent inner tubes, kayaks, or paddleboards to float through the cool, clear waters, watching turtles and wading birds along the way.

9. Hang out in the cool, futuristic community of Lake Nona

Located near the Orlando International Airport, the master-planned, lakeside community of Lake Nona is an excellent family destination. Explore art-filled gardens at Lake Nona Wave Hotel and enjoy events happening at the town center, making Lake Nona a fun alternative to the theme parks.

10. Sip Butterbeer at Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter

No trip to Orlando theme parks is complete without a Butterbeer selfie at Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Families can find this delicious drink offered hot or cold at various locations, including The Leaky Cauldron and The Hopping Pot.

11. Spend the day snorkeling at Discovery Cove

While Orlando lacks ocean access, families can still experience an underwater adventure at Discovery Cove. The all-inclusive experience includes snorkeling gear to explore a reef environment filled with marine life amongst schools of colorful fish. Meals and drinks are also part of the package.

12. See manatees at Blue Spring State Park

During the cooler months, manatees tend to gather in droves at Blue Springs State Park, located about 34 miles north of downtown Orlando. Families can enjoy a day trip to witness these gentle giants as they navigate the crystal-clear waters of the springs.

13. Paddle the headwaters of the Everglades at Shingle Creek

For those unaware, the headwaters of the Everglades are located north of South Florida’s national park. Around Orlando in Kissimmee, families can explore the Everglades by joining guided eco-tours with The Paddling Center, drifting through flooded cypress forests while watching for otters, deer, and alligators.

14. Get a bird’s-eye view of Disney World in a hot air balloon

Experience a unique perspective of the Disney World area with an early-morning hot air balloon ride from Painted Horizon Hot Air Balloon Tours. Children must be at least seven years old to participate, but this unforgettable family outing is sure to create lasting memories.

15. Stay at a resort with an epic on-site waterpark

Extend the theme park excitement by choosing a hotel with a waterpark. The Orlando World Center Marriott offers resort amenities that include a sprawling lagoon-style pool and the River Falls Water Park, where families can enjoy a lazy river and thrilling water slides.

16. Snap an iconic photo in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom

For a memorable family photo, capture the moment in front of Cinderella Castle, the iconic centerpiece of Magic Kingdom. This snapshot is a must for Instagram and serves as a cherished keepsake of your Orlando adventure!

17. Take a behind-the-scenes tour at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

A trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park provides a safari-like experience without leaving Florida. Booking a behind-the-scenes tour allows families to see white rhinoceroses, giraffes, and more animals in the park’s expansive savanna, enhancing the value of the visit.

18. Take a boat tour through a beautiful chain of lakes

Explore Orlando’s stunning lakes and wildlife on a scenic boat tour through Winter Park’s picturesque chain of lakes. Winter Park Scenic Boat Tours offers hour-long canal cruises aboard comfortable pontoon boats, providing an opportunity to spot turtles and wading birds. Kids under two years ride free!

19. Sink your teeth into the most delicious cookies

Families flock to Gideon’s Bakehouse for cookies that weigh nearly half a pound and take 24 hours to prepare. While seasonal varieties are always available, the classic chocolate chip cookie remains a must-try. It’s a sweet indulgence that shouldn’t be missed!

20. Dine alongside your kids’ favorite characters

Let your kids enjoy a meal alongside their favorite characters during character dining experiences at various restaurants around Disney World. This unique dining experience brings characters such as princesses and iconic Disney characters to your table, making it a memorable splurge!

21. Ride a Ferris wheel

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Orlando area from 400 feet high by riding The Wheel at ICON Park. During this 18-minute ride, kids will be glued to the windows, spotting lakes, theme parks, and even fireworks if timed right.

22. Expose your kids to a Michelin-starred restaurant

Orlando’s culinary scene has flourished, showcasing a variety of dining experiences, including Michelin-starred restaurants. Take a break from theme park food and treat your family to a special dinner at one of the city’s premier restaurants established in 2022, such as Capa, Kadence, or Knife & Spoon at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.