Orlando for Families: Top Attractions Beyond the Theme Parks

Orlando is famous for its theme parks – there are nearly 20 of them! But what if you want to take a break from Disney or theme parks just aren’t your thing? Well, there are still plenty of things to do in Orlando. 

In this article, we’ll dive into some of the other attractions that are well worth a visit if you’re on a family vacation to Orlando.

Getting Around Orlando

Before we take a look at some of the best attractions to visit in Orlando, let’s cover some of the practical aspects of visiting the city. 

First among those is figuring out how you’re going to travel around the city and between the different attractions. While many of the famous theme parks are well-connected by shuttle buses, some of the lesser-known attractions are not as easy to get to. but don’t be put off — they’re worth the extra effort.

The easiest way to get from A to B is by renting a car. This gives you the flexibility and freedom to pack up the family and visit all the sights on your list without having to stick to public transport timetables or wait for a taxi. There are plenty of options for car rental Orlando airport, so you can get straight off your flight and hit the road.

If you’re not keen on renting a car, you can rely on public transport. The LYNX bus network and SunRail system are affordable ways to get around. Just bear in mind that they may not take you to exactly where you want to go and there could be waits at stops and stations. 

There is also the option to use services like Uber and Lyft. Both operate in the area and can provide you with on-demand door-to-door transportation. You might have to wait for them to arrive, but they’ll give you some of the flexibility of having a rental car. 

Top Accommodation In Orlando

Orlando is a dream destination for families traveling with kids. There are so many options available that provide kids’ clubs, family rooms, and on-site water parks that you’re sure to find something that fits your budget. 

For easy access to downtown, Courtyard by Marriott is a great hotel with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and onsite dining. If you’re looking for something more economical, then you can’t go wrong with Galleria Palms Orlando. This hotel also offers an outdoor pool, but has the added bonus of laundry facilities and in-room microwaves. If Disney is still on your destination plan then our favourite is the Swan and Dolphin Resort.

However, hotels are not for everyone, and if you want more of a home away from home then a vacation rental property might be the best option. You’ll have the opportunity to cook your own meals, the space to relax together, and potentially a private pool. 

Must-See Attractions

Now that we’ve covered some of the basics, let’s dive into some of the best places to visit away from the theme parks. 

Animal Encounters in Orlando Florida

If your kids are animal lovers, there are plenty of places to visit that will be right up their alley. 

• Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: Not far from downtown Orlando, this zoo is home to over 100 different animal species, including the rare Indian rhino. There are also beautiful gardens to explore that make for a welcome break from the hectic experience of the parks.
• Giraffe Ranch: Located about an hour from Orlando, Giraffe Ranch provides an unforgettable experience. Your little ones will be able to get up close and personal with everything from ring-tailed lemurs to giant tortoises. There’s also the option to ride camels and feed the giraffes!
• Wild Florida: Here you can take an exhilarating airboat tour through the Everglades, visit Gator Park at feeding time, and take a drive-through safari. With so many exciting activities on offer, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Cultural Experiences

Apart from close encounters with animals, Orlando also has a wealth of museums and cultural experiences to enjoy.

• Kennedy Space Center: What trip to Orlando is complete without a visit to the Kennedy Space Center? With interactive exhibitions and the chance to meet an astronaut, it’s definitely an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.
• Crayola Experience: Get in touch with your creativity, and design your own crayons, be featured in your own coloring pages at this kid-friendly interactive experience.
• Orlando Science Center: Covering everything from space to the oceans through live shows, immersive experiences, and hands-on activities, you’re sure to enjoy every moment of your visit.
• Chocolate Kingdom: The Factory Adventure Tour at the Chocolate Kingdom is a must for all chocoholics. You’ll learn about the history of chocolate and get to participate in the interactive exhibits. 
• Orlando Museum of Art: Known as Orlando’s best-kept secret, this museum lets you explore art from all around the world, including masterpieces from famous artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams.

Get in Touch With Nature

Orlando is also surrounded by breathtaking nature that is just waiting to be explored.

• Big Tree Park: If your family loves nature and hiking, visit Big Tree Park to see some of the oldest and tallest trees in Florida. It’s a great place to learn about the region’s natural history and enjoy a picnic. 
• Wekiwa Springs State Park: Another favorite with nature lovers, Wekiwa Springs Park offers opportunities to hike, rent kayaks, or swim in the crystal-clear springs.
• Harry P. Leu Gardens: Combining lush gardens and a historic house museum, this is an oasis of calm away from the busy city. They even offer outdoor movie nights and music concerts. 

Many of the attractions listed above offer discounts and packages to make your vacation more affordable. Do your research and see if any of the multi-day tickets and passes available cover the sights you want to visit. 

Final Thoughts

Orlando is a city that has so much more to offer than the theme parks. From stunning natural parks to exhilarating encounters with wildlife and world-class museums, there really is something for the whole family. With a little planning, you’ll have the whole family begging to come back to repeat the whole experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Get planning your trip to Orlando.