A bustling city that has become known for its iconic skyscrapers, art galleries, theaters, and entertainment centers, Orlando is filled with things for all types of travelers to see and do. The area has a variety of greenspaces and parks to enjoy if you would like to be outside, and there are many different amusement parks in the region that can be a fun activity for visitors of all ages. Those who like to golf will be happy to spend time in Orlando, as there are numerous courses to choose from.
While Orlando does have some public transportation, such as the local bus, the city is particularly sprawling, meaning that having access to a rental car in Orlando is usually the best way to travel around town. If you want to spend more time in Orlando, opt for weekly rental cars from SIXT. If you want to soak up some Florida sunshine, you can always choose a convertible. For larger groups or to have room for recreational equipment, an SUV is convenient.
- 1. Universal Orlando Resort
- 2. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
- 3. Harry P. Leu Gardens
- 4. Walt Disney World Resort
- 5. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
- 6. Crayola Experience
- 7. Tibet-Butler Preserve
- 8. Orlando Museum of Art
- 9. Old Town Kissimmee
- 10. Kennedy Space Center
- Best Places to Eat & Drink in Orlando
Must-see attractions in Orlando
1. Universal Orlando Resort
A famous theme park filled with movie-themed rides, Universal Orlando Resort has numerous games, activities, and even a waterpark, making it a fun place to go for individuals of all ages. There are typically special events for certain holidays, such as Mardi Gras and Halloween. New rides are consistently added, so keep your eyes open for any special additions.
Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Entry fees: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/tickets-packages/park-tickets
Hours: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/hours-information/park-hours
Time required to see the attraction: You will want to take at least one full day to visit the park.
2. Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a popular museum filled with a variety of unusual and bizarre artifacts. Since it was first created in 1918, this museum has been teaching visitors about interesting stories that are incredibly hard to believe, but undeniably true. There are quite a few interactive exhibits that are sure to keep the little ones entertained during your visit.
Address: 8201 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Entry fees: https://tickets.ripleys.com/orlando/
Hours: https://www.ripleys.com/orlando/plan-your-visit/
Time required to see the attraction: It will take you approximately 2 hours to explore the entire museum.
3. Harry P. Leu Gardens
A botanical oasis that spans across more than 50 acres, the Harry P. Leu Gardens contain numerous semi-tropical and tropical plants. The gardens also have quite a few lakes, as well as meandering trails that are perfect for embarking on a nice walk and enjoying the grounds. Various classes and camps are periodically offered to teach visitors of all ages about horticulture.
Address: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Entry fees: https://www.leugardens.org/visitor-information/
Hours: https://www.leugardens.org/
Time required to see the attraction: You will need approximately 2 to 3 hours to see most of the gardens.
4. Walt Disney World Resort
Made up of four different theme parks and two waterparks, the Walt Disney World Resort is a sprawling complex that has hundreds of rides and activities all related to different Disney characters and stories. There are also quite a few hotels that are directly connected to the resort, making it easy to spend a couple of days here if you would like.
Address: 1375 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando FL 32830
Entry fees: https://www.disneyholidays.com/walt-disney-world/tickets/
Hours: https://www.disneyworld.com/calendars/five-day/
Time required to see the attraction: You will need to spend at least 1 or 2 days to get the most out of the resort.
5. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit
A museum dedicated to the famous ship, the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is a particularly popular sight in Orlando. It is home to more than 300 different artifacts, and it frequently offers guided tours, while also having recreations of the ship. There are periodically special events, which include themed dinner parties.
Address: 7324 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Entry fees: https://titanicorlando.com/visit/
Hours: https://titanicorlando.com/visit/
Time required to see the attraction: You will need approximately 2 to 3 hours to see the entire attraction.
6. Crayola Experience
For an experience that the entire family is sure to love, head to the Crayola Experience, an amusement center that offers dozens of different hands-on and creative activities. Here, visitors can make their very own Crayola crayon, as well as create special items out of crayon wax, such as rings, special characters and animals.
Address: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809
Entry fees: https://www.crayolaexperience.com/orlando/buy-tickets
Hours: https://www.crayolaexperience.com/orlando/about-us/calendar
Time required to see the attraction: You will want to spend at least 3 to 4 hours touring the entire facility.
7. Tibet-Butler Preserve
A county park located on the shore of Lake Butler, the Tibet-Butler Preserve is a beautiful and scenic nature center that has numerous well-groomed trails for cycling, running, and walking. While walking the extensive trail system, you will have the opportunity to see many of the area’s major habitats, including bayhead swamp and longleaf pine forest.
Address: 8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Orlando FL 32836
Entry fees: Free
Hours: https://www.ocfl.net/CultureParks/Parks.aspx?m=dtlvw&d=39#.YlbWhmJBxPa
Time required to see the attraction: You will need approximately 3 hours to enjoy the nature preserve.
8. Orlando Museum of Art
Since it was first founded in 1924, the Orlando Museum of Art has been a place to showcase and reflect works from Florida’s art and culture community. Each year, the museum typically has between 10 to 12 different exhibits for visitors to enjoy. Many different types of art can be found here, including contemporary pieces, as well as works from the Americas and Africa.
Address: 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Entry fees: https://omart.org/visit/tickets/
Hours: https://omart.org/visit/hours_directions/
Time required to see the attraction: It will take you approximately 2 hours to tour the entire museum.
9. Old Town Kissimmee
Go back in time by visiting Old Town Kissimmee, an amusement park that features vintage carnival rides, weekly classic car shows, charming boutiques, and a variety of dining options. Make sure to check the event calendar frequently, as the park often hosts fun events, including live concerts and karaoke competitions.
Address: 5770 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee FL 34746
Entry fees: Free
Hours: https://myoldtownusa.com/reach-us/
Time required to see the attraction: 1-2 hours
10. Kennedy Space Center
Get up close and personal with outer space and rockets by visiting the Kennedy Space Center. Here, you can enjoy a variety of interactive activities and crafts designed for children of all ages, as well as special events, such as rocket launch viewings. You can also stand nose to nose with the famous Space Shuttle Atlantis and talk to a real-life astronaut.
Address: 9339 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827
Entry fees: https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info/tickets
Hours: https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info/hours-of-operation
Time required to see the attraction: It will take you about 3 to 4 hours to explore the entire center.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Orlando
Orlando is known for having a growing food scene, with many different types of cuisine to choose from. With a variety of food trucks, independent restaurants, and even vegan bakeries, you’re sure to find something that will please your taste buds. There are also many craft breweries and chic cocktail bars to go to.
Santiago’s Bodega: A charming neighborhood tapas bar that is popular for its house sangria, Santiago’s Bodega is a great place to share a few different dishes with your loved ones. It also offers daily happy hours.
Strong Water Tavern: This local establishment is a unique watering hole that has a large selection of rums, as well as a patio that overlooks a scenic lagoon. Choose from a variety of Caribbean staples that are on the menu.
Primo: For fine Italian dining, head to Primo, an organic restaurant that serves authentic dishes and has an impressive wine list and refreshing cocktails.
