10 Fun Destinations to Add to Your Orlando Trip Bucketlist - Klook Travel Blog (2024)

Raise your hand if you've been bitten by the travel bug! Next stop on the bucket list: visiting Orlando. As the theme park capital of the world, it's full of popular tourist destinations, you won't fall short of exciting things to do in Orlando, Florida. From world-class theme parks to natural wonders, the city offers plenty of opportunities for entertainment—or relaxation, if that's more your style.

1. Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is the crowning glory of "The City Beautiful," which is why it's in everyone's line-up of things to do in Orlando, Florida. Besides, what better city to experience the Happiest Place on Earth than at the theme park capital of the world?

The Walt Disney World Resort complex alone has countless wonders and entertainment for the whole gang. You'll find four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and EPCOT), two water parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach), and a line-up of great hotels guaranteed to give you a memorable vacay. Of course, you also can't miss going on thrilling rides, meeting your Disney heroes, sampling unique foods, and basking in childhood nostalgia—all punctuated by the magical buzz of the place!

If this is your first time going, check out our more in-depth guide to Disney World Orlando to prepare for your adventure. We'll tell you which rides are worth lining up for!

#KlookTip: Can't get enough of the Disney experience? Make sure to stop by Disney Springs to shop for some souvenirs! Or if you want items that aren't even in the park, drop by The Florida Mall!

2. Universal Studios Florida

Universal Orlando Resort draws in those who are looking for heart-stopping rides and attractions inspired by popular Hollywood franchises like Fast & Furious and Transformers. It's like watching your favourite shows and movies, except you're fully transported to their worlds right in central Florida. We've all imagined being part of the movies we love, right? Well, this amusem*nt park brings that fantasy to life year-round!

If you're a fan of The Boy Who Lived, you better include Universal Studios in your list of Orlando things to do so you can jump in on all the action ASAP! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in central Florida will transport you to the streets of Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade Village, and Hogwarts Castle. Can you think of a more iconic attraction?

#KlookTip: Looking for brain-teaser activities? Head over to Escape Game Orlando, just 10 minutes away from Universal Studios!

3. Legoland Florida

Whether you're travelling with kids or you're just a kid-at-heart, Legoland Florida offers heaps of things to do for entertainment. There's a variety of adrenaline-filled and kid-friendly rides, such as the popular Coastersaurus, Safari Trek, and The Lego Movie Masters of Flight ride, of course. This theme park promises a good time for the whole family!

If you're a Lego collector or a diehard fanatic, then you'll have a blast at Miniland USA, where miniature Lego recreations of famous cities—including Orlando—are on display. There's also the newly-opened Pirate River Quest water attraction, where you'll set sail through the uncharted waters of the legendary Cypress Gardens in search of stolen treasures.

4. Kennedy Space Center

If you feel like taking a break from the bustle of an amusem*nt park, then stop by Kennedy Space Center instead. It's not only one of Orlando's major attractions, but it's also a fully functional NASA launch centre!

There are tons of activities and entertainment to occupy your day here, like the Shuttle Launch Simulator, the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibition, and even an IMAX theatre to watch original footage captured by astronauts on different space missions.

Don't miss this spot if you've ever wondered what it's like to be an astronaut! You can get up close and personal with the machines and processes involved in space exploration!

P.S. No need to worry about calculating anything—you won't need a math or engineering degree during your visit!

5. Chocolate Kingdom

Sign yourself up for a scrumdiddlyumptious journey through the fascinating world of chocolate at Chocolate Kingdom. You'll see all the retro machinery in action as you're taken through the process of transforming cacao beans into creamy, dreamy chocolate. There's even a chance to create your own customised chocolate bar! Apart from the interactive journey, you'll also get the chance to see a Cacao Tree Greenhouse and a unique chocolate Orlando museum. Prepare your sweet tooth because there'll be a sugar overload on this itinerary!

6. Clearwater Beach

The list of things to do in Orlando extends beyond man-made attractions. The contrast of sugar-like, fine white sand against the calm blue sea makes Clearwater Beach the perfect relaxation spot. Just two hours away from downtown Orlando, it's also a well-maintained beach, so the crystal-clear waters are perfect for exciting water activities such as airboat rides, snorkelling, and even watching dolphins. There's no better way to beat the Florida heat!

Not to mention, going here would save you some money because it's free. It's great for travellers who are on a budget, especially since a lot of famous destinations require admission fees. Wanna go on more beach trips in Orlando? Read our road trip guide for more helpful tips!

#KlookTip: Lake Eola Park, located in the heart of downtown Orlando, is another popular location that's open to the public for free. It's a great spot for picnics but also a bustling hub of activities like live music and performing arts during special events.

7. Crystal River

Happiness flows at a rapid speed at Crystal River—the Manatee Capital of the World. It's actually the only water park in America where you can legally swim and snorkel with these gentle giants. But don't worry; Manatees are relaxed and curious creatures, so just enjoy the warm waters and make some new aquatic friends!

And would a visit to a coastal town be complete without other water-oriented activities? You can go boating, canoeing/kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, swimming, and even wildlife watching at this mystical river. Finally, to commemorate your trip, travel downtown and drop by quaint speciality shops for souvenirs!

8. SeaWorld Orlando

If you're an adrenaline junkie, then Sea World Orlando (the Coaster Capital of the World) is right up your alley. This destination has eight stomach-flipping rollercoasters, including Mako, Orlando's tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster. It only goes as fast as 73 mph and up to 200 feet high. No big deal!

But SeaWorld has more to offer than its theme park; You can also watch family-friendly shows, learn at educational exhibits, and have one-of-a-kind encounters with aquatic animals—from big fascinating sharks to schools of little fish. Fancy feeding a dolphin? You can try that once-in-a-lifetime experience at SeaWorld, too.

Fun fact: Did you know that SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, and Aquatica are sister theme parks? You can see many different species of marine life in all three!

#KlookTip: Wanna get up close with animals of the past (aka dinosaurs)? The Orlando Science Center is only 21 minutes away and full of dino and planetary exhibits!

9. Sea Life Aquarium

Are you looking for destinations that will transport you to the underwater world? Look no further! Sea Life Aquarium has a 360-degree ocean tunnel where you can say hello to sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. This top-notch aquarium is home to more than 5,000 unique species from the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans! It's a great way to learn about the elusive creatures of the sea and see them in action!

#KlookTip: Sea Life Orlando Aquarium is also just walking distance to Madame Tussauds Orlando! We defo recommend visiting them in one day for convenience.

10. Tree Trek Adventure Park

Add Tree Trek Adventure Park to your bucket list if you're big on trying outdoor activities. This family-friendly park has challenging obstacle courses, a 425-foot zipline, and exciting aerial challenges up to 50 feet high! There are also hanging skateboards, trapeze swings, rope courses, cargo nets, and swinging logs that will test your limits.

It's a tree-mendous experience (unless you have a fear of heights)! But if you're just there to reconnect with nature and observe, there's also a walking park, a large deck, and a snack bar for you to enjoy.

When it comes to fun things to do, Orlando has plenty of options. It's just up to your preferences where you'd rather spend time. Anyway, at least you can start packing your bags now that you know what to do in Orlando!

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