Things to do in Orlando

With over 100 attractions to check out during your stay, here are some of the top rated sites to visit. These are bound to tickle the thrills for all ages, the whole family can enjoy together, or wild, pulse-pounding thrills you’ll have to see to believe.

Things to do in Orlando

Whenever you think of Florida, Orlando is often the first city that springs to mind. Families, couples and even solo travellers will never be stuck for something to do here, this thriving area of the Sunshine State is jam-packed with amazing activities. From world-famous theme parks and Championship golf courses to designer shopping malls and even areas of incredible natural beauty, Orlando really does have it all.

Discover what to eat, where to stay and what to do on your upcoming break to Florida below.

Visit Walt Disney World

What is it? Opening its doors for the first time in 1965, Walt Disney World is one of the most famous theme parks come entertainment complexes on the planet.

Where is it? Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL 32830, USA

Why go? From jaw-dropping rides to incredible shows, Walt Disney World is perfect for visitors of any age. A truly magical place, there are six parks to explore, each offering something different. Make sure you don’t miss Disney's Hollywood Studios if you're a film buff, or the Happily Ever After firework display at the Magic Kingdom.

Go to Universal Orlando

What is it? Another of Orlando's major theme parks, Universal Orlando is home to Universal Studios, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and even Volcano Bay - an amazing waterpark perfect for cooling down in on summer days.

Where is it? Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL 32830, USA

Why go? Make sure you book out a few days in your schedule to explore Universal to its full potential. Highlights include travelling on the Hogwarts Express from Islands of Adventure to Hogsmeade, the musical Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, and the breathtaking Cinematic Celebration, where water, music and light combine to put on an amazing evening show.

Take an out-of-this-world trip to the Kennedy Space Centre

What is it? You're sure to be amazed by the Kennedy Space Centre. One of only ten National Aeronautics and Space Administration field centres, the site is known as the home of many historical moments, such as the launch of Apollo 11.

Where is it? Florida 32899, USA

Why go? Open from 9am to 6pm, the Kennedy Space Centre is not to be missed. An awe-inspiring place to visit, guests can get up close to the space shuttle Atlantis, meet real-life astronauts, explore the Hall of Fame and discover what NASA is up to, from current missions to those scheduled in the near future.

Forever Florida

What is it? A wildlife conservation area that spans over 4,700 acres. Forever Florida is perfect for those who love the outdoors and offers camping, zip-lining, horseback riding and more.

Where is it? 4755 N Kenansville Rd, St Cloud, FL 34773, USA

Why go? If you're after something adventurous and a little bit different, you'll love Forever Florida. Escape from the busy crowds and add a hint of adventure to your holiday. Sign up to the Horseback Camping Adventure and take a three-hour trial ride through the wilderness before spending an evening by a roaring fire on an equipped campsite.

Lake Eola Park

What is it? A tranquil, 9-hectare public park in Downtown Orlando. At its centre is the picturesque Lake Eola, and the Walt Disney Amphitheatre can also be found here.

Where is it? 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

Why go? Free to visit and a wonderful contrast to the bustling attractions dotted around Orlando, Lake Eola is a welcome sanctuary for both visitors and residents of Orlando. Relax with a picnic, soak up the rays, take to the water on a paddleboat or catch a concert at the Disney Amphitheatre.

ICON Orlando

What is it? ICON Orlando, previously known as the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, is a 400ft tall observation wheel on International Drive.

Where is it? 8401 International Dr #100, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Why go? Enjoy a bird's-eye view of International Drive when you jump on ICON Orlando. On a clear day (which is almost every day in Florida!) you'll be able to see Downtown Florida, Florida's favourite theme parks and even Cape Canaveral.

Best Places to Stay in Orlando

Choosing the perfect hotel can be tricky, whether you're looking for a romantic destination for a couple's retreat or something that's ideal for larger families. Below you'll find a bunch of highly recommended hotels to suit a range of budgets.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

If you're looking for the five-star treatment, book a room at the elegant Waldorf Astoria. This spectacular hotel in close proximity to Walt Disney World, and boasts its own golf course, a private pool and spa too.

Star rating: 5/5

Price range per night: Starting from £141 per night

Address: 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln, Orlando, FL 32821, USA

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Little ones and adults alike will adore staying in Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Right in the heart of Walt Disney World, you'll be transported into a whole new world. With views of the savanna and over 200 animals and birds also calling the hotel home, it's an amazing place to stay that's full of that special Disney magic.

Star rating: 4/5

Price range per night: Starting from £258 per night

Address: 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32830, USA

Caribe Royale

Caribe Royale is only 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World and it's absolutely perfect for families. Packed with facilities to keep kids entertained, including a large pool, separate water play area, tennis courts and bicycles available to rent, you'll never be stuck for something to do, even when you have a lazy day in the hotel.

Star rating: 4/5

Price range per night: Starting from £86 per night

Address: 8101 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, USA

JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

With picture-perfect views and ultra-luxurious rooms and suites, the JW Marriot Orlando is a wonderful spot for a getaway. The 500-acre site offers a Championship golf course, a 40,000 square foot spa, a lazy river and even fly-fishing for guests, and you'll only be a shuttle bus away from Universal Orlando and Disney.

Star rating: 4/5

Price range per night: Starting from £102 per night

Address: 4040 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32837, USA

Hard Rock Hotel Orlando

If you'd like to stay at Universal Orlando, choose the Hard Rock Hotel. It's the place to be if you want to wake up feeling like a rockstar, with effortlessly cool interiors and some of the best evening entertainment just some of the major highlights of staying here.

Families are more than welcome, and there are amenities to cater to everyone. Browse iconic memorabilia from musical icons like Elvis, kick back by the pool while your children join in with a ping-pong tournament or enter the poolside hula hoop contest. If parents fancy an evening exploring Universal's CityWalk, they can even drop their kids off at Camp Lil Rock, Hard Rock Hotel's supervised activity centre for children age 4 to 14.

Star rating: 4/5

Price range per night: Starting from £163 per night

Address: 5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Best Places to Eat in Orlando

Pizza, pasta, Tex-Mex or Asian Fusion, whatever you have a hankering for you'll be able to find it in Orlando. The city is full of amazing restaurants, quaint bistros and cute cafes, catering to all tastes and moods. If you pass any of our recommended places to eat by, make sure you pop in for a bite to eat - you won't regret it.

Morimoto Asia

You'll find Morimoto Asia at Walt Disney World, where chef Masaharu Morimoto from Iron Chef America will take you on a culinary journey around the East. Every single dish is full of flavour, and this Pan-Asian restaurant has a menu unlike any other. Classics like sushi, Peking Duck and dim sum are perfected, and experimental dishes are a must for the foodies out there. Pop in during the day as a family and ask for the kids' menu or enjoy a candlelit dinner with a loved one and a specialised cocktail on an evening.

Address: 1600 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, United States

Domu

Tucked away in East End Market, Domu is one of Florida's hidden gems. Both a restaurant and bar, Domu specialises in homemade noodles and unusual small plates that are sure to surprise and delight. It's only been open since 2016, but already this independent eatery has made a huge impact on Orlando.

Slang for "a dream come true", you won't regret dining at Domu. Head there for brunch on a weekend or stop by on an evening for a seasonal cocktail.

Address: East End Market, 3201 Corrine Dr Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

Trevi Pasta

Sometimes you get a craving for a hearty Italian, and when the mood hits make sure you go to Trevi Pasta. Homemade pasta that's always fresh and absolutely delicious, this affordable spot can be found on Edgewater Drive, close to Lake Fairview. If you have room, don't forget to try the gelato too - there are over 15 flavours to try.

Address: 2120 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804, USA

Pizza Bruno

Pizza Bruno isn't any old pizza place, it's something special. You'll be able to tell from the moment you step inside and smell the amazing woodfire oven that the pizza is worth waiting for, and the hip interiors and relaxed vibe are sure to draw you in. Reservations can be taken if you're planning on visiting in a group of 8 or more.

Address: 3990 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL 32806, USA

Black Bean Deli

An affordable place to try incredible Cuban food, there's a reason Black Bean Deli has been thriving for 15 years. There's nowhere better to sample authentic dishes like ropa vieja, plantain and masitas de puerco, and the weekly specials are always guaranteed to sell out fast!

Address: 1835 E. Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

Orlando Nightlife

Universal's CityWalk

Grab a bite to eat, enjoy a cocktail or three and catch a live show at Universal's CityWalk. It's open all day, but truly comes to life at night. You can park here for free after 6pm, and those who love to party will adore the Red Coconut Club, the iconic Hard Rock Café and the groove^TM. Pat O'Brien's is a must-visit too if you love live music.

Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Contact: +1 407-363-8000

Opening times: 8am to 2:30am

Admissions: Free, with admission fees for select nightclubs

Howl at the Moon

Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Contact: +1 407-363-8000

Opening times: 8am to 2:30am

Admissions: Free, with admission fees for select nightclubs

King's Dining & Entertainment

You'll find King's all across America, and the Florida branch is a hotspot for both tourists and locals alike. Open from 12pm 'til late, this retro venue offers bowling and billiards as well as two bars and an impressive dancefloor. It's also a fantastic spot for watching sport too, and the pre-game snacks can't be beat!

Address: 8255 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Contact: +1 407-363-0200

Opening times: 12pm - 2am Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 12am Sunday

Admissions: Free

Shopping in Orlando

Whether you're looking to buy gifts for loved ones back home or you fancy treating yourself to a shopping trip while in Florida, you'll have plenty of options in Orlando. There are tonnes of independent boutiques dotted around the city, but you'll find some of the city's major shopping destinations below.

The Mall at Millenia

You'll find all the big-name brands you could possibly think of at The Mall of Millenia, which is conveniently located on Conroy Road near the northern end of International Drive. From American Eagle Outfitters and Anthropologie to designer labels like Gucci and Prada, there's a huge range of stores here to suit every budget. The mall itself is beautiful too, and with plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat you can easily spend an entire afternoon here.

Address: 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando

Florida Mall

The Florida Mall is easy to find, just minutes from Walt Disney World Resort. With over 250 stores and restaurants to discover, shoppers are sure to find exactly what they're looking for here. Macy's, M&M's World and JCPenney are just some of the highlights first-time visitors are sure to love.

Address: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando

Orlando Premium Outlets

If you love a bargain, and you're interested in picking up designer clothing and accessories for less, head to Orlando Premium Outlets. Often open until late, you'll find brands like Adidas, Nike, Levi's, Burberry and Calvin Klein here. Reach the outlet by car, bus or take the free shuttle available from International Drive hotels - it runs every 15 minutes.

Address: 4951 International Dr, Orlando

Planning on a road trip to Miami during your time in Florida? Make sure you read our ultimate Miami guide first . It'll tell you everything you need to know, from where to book a room during your stay to not-to-be-missed activities

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