October 29, 2025 | 7:40 AM
We’re lucky to be in the theme park capital of the world, but sometimes theme parks can be exhausting! We’ve crafted the perfect list of the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, or just relaxation, we’ve got you covered!
Orlando has the perfect weather for gardens, and there are a few beautiful botanical gardens that are a great way to spend a day away from the theme parks. Leu Gardens and Mead Botanical Gardens are located near downtown, and Bok Tower Gardens is located in Lake Wales but is absolutely worth it to go see! Beautiful gardens, a delicious cafe, and a singing tower to explore.
Love puzzles? Put your mind to the test with escape games! Orlando has so many different escape games to choose from, whether you want to escape from a space-themed room, an evil scientist’s laboratory, or a mystery travel agency. Be sure to grab your smartest friends and see if you got what it takes!
A great way to support local Orlando vendors is by heading out to your local farmers’ market! Orlando has so many different ones to choose from whether you’re in downtown Orlando, Winter Park, Winter Garden, or even Celebration!
Enjoy delicious local produce, artisan vendors, and even local food trucks! It’s the perfect way to spend your weekend!
Thrifting is a great way to spend the day that helps not only local shops but also is great for the environment! Orlando has some really awesome and eclectic shops whether you’re looking for vintage clothing, furniture, or even knick-knacks for your home. Everyone will be asking where you got that!
Have you ever wanted to pretend that you lived somewhere where it snowed? Plan a trip to Snowcat Ridge. Here you can live out your wildest winter fantasies like building a snowman or tubing down an ice slide! Stroll through the alpine village and enjoy the snowy slopes at Florida’s only alpine snow park.
*Winter Months Only*
Found the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks? Follow us @StuffToDoInOrlando and tag us in your pics!
Anna BresciaRaleigh ✈️ Orlando • Constantly sipping an ice coffee and checking out all the new Orlando hotspots! ☕️??