There are so many more things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney. So many, in fact, we couldn’t fit them all into one list!
Doesn’t it seem as though every family visiting Orlando, FL purchases Disney World Tickets? While Disney World is a hot spot for family travel (as it should be), it’s not the only attraction in the area. We've narrowed it down to the fourteen greatest things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney
Theme Parks in Orlando Other Than Disney
Universal Orlando Resort
Your favorite movies jump off of the big screen and into life at Universal Orlando Resort. From Harry Potter to Dr. Seuss, Jurassic Park to the Mummy, Universal Orlando has it all.
For parents who are looking for kid activities in Orlando that are not Disney, you'll need to plan a full day for this adventure! Kids will be able to can do everything from testing their courage on monstrous roller coasters like The Hulk to watching shows such as the Eighth Voyage of Sinbad. And as for the little ones, the theme park offers interactive shows and kid-friendly rides for all ages.
Plus, your family can visit Universal CityWalk for unparalleled entertainment and book a room at the resort’s several hotels for the ultimate Orlando vacation.
photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook
Kid Friendly Things to do in Orlando - LEGOLAND Florida Resort
What kid doesn’t love playing with LEGO? Next up on our list of family fun in Orlando that's not Disney is buildoing lifelong family memories together at LEGOLAND Florida Resort.
In addition to brick-tastic hotel accommodations, the resort combines LEGO characters and entertainment with extraordinary rides—all built for kids.
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LEGOLAND Florida Resort also boasts a family-friendly waterpark for splash-filled fun. From coasters to waterslides, it’s easy to see why LEGOLAND is one of the top things to do in Orlando besides Disney.
photo credit: LEGOLAND Florida via Facebook
Places to Go Other Than Disney World - SeaWorld Orlando
Sure, you could diver under the sea with Ariel at Disney World, but why not explore the ocean with the pros? SeaWorld Orlando is committed to educating visitors about our oceans and the animals and plants living within them.
Through interactive exhibits, exhilarating rides, and intriguing tours, guests learn about everything from penguins to manta rays.
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SeaWorld is also taking kid-friendly fun to a new level in 2019 with the addition of Sesame Street! The hands-on area just for kids will boast characters such as Elmo and friends, entertaining parades, and kid-sized rides. SeaWorld is the perfect stop for families looking for things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney
Gatorland
If ziplining over gators is on your family’s bucket list (and if it is, your bucket list rocks!), a trip to Gatorland in Orlando is a must. On top of seeing Florida wildlife, the 110-acre preserve offers the chance to go ziplining, visit a petting zoo, and watch gator wrestling and shows.
With all of this wild fun, there’s a good chance your family will all agree, Gatorland is one of the greatest things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney.
To continue the family-friendly fun, visit Gatorland's Gator Gully Splash Park with the kids. From splash pads to water blasters, you’ll be soaked!
photo credit: Gatorland Orlando via Facebook
Fun Spot America Theme Parks
If your family wants the thrill of an Orlando theme park, but not the hefty price tag, visit Fun Spot America instead.
This amusement park is home to the largest and second-tallest SkyCoaster in the world, meaning you’re in for insane thrills (that is, if you meet the height requirement.)
Plus, with a ton of family-friendly rides, there’s something for all ages to enjoy at the park.
If rides aren’t your thing, head to the 10,000-square-foot arcade and see what prizes you can win! Or, put your need for speed to the test on the multi-leveled go-kart track.
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Photo Credit: Fun Spot America Atlanta via Facebook
Aquatica by SeaWorld
SeaWorld’s wet and wild waterpark, Aquatica, is the perfect alternative to a Disney waterpark. With insane water slides, immersive splash areas, and private cabana rentals, you’ll splash the day away in the Florida sun.
Plus, to continue educating guests about conserving our oceans, Aquatica also has up-close animal experiences!
Of course, navigating a day at the waterpark with kids can be tricky. Before you go, take our Aquatica Orlando tips into consideration!
photo credit: Aquatica Orlando via Facebook
Family Activities in Orlando
Kennedy Space Center
When organizing your list of things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney, make sure the Kennedy Space Center makes the cut. This hands-on space museum features everything from artifacts to self-guided tours. The 60 interactive simulators immerse guests in a true-to-life spaceflight experience.
Plus, if you’re brave enough, hop onto one of the in-flight simulators. That is if you think you can handle it. And, kids love meeting a real-life astronaut in person!
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Kennedy Space Center also offers a riveting 3D IMAX film daily, great for kids and adults alike. Your entire family will agree that the Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit destination!
ICON Orlando
Who can resist a ferris wheel? One of our favorite things to do in Orlando for kids is to soar high above the city at the ICON Orlando Ferris Wheel!
In addition to magnificent views from 400 feet in the sky, the 15-person, air-conditioned capsules allow for rides in the rain or shine. Kids especially love riding the Ferris Wheel at night due to the color-changing light show.
If you’re searching for the perfect family photo opportunity, this is it! Capture memories from high in the sky or illuminated at night. And with Orlando attractions for kids such as SEA LIFE Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando nearby, you’ll have a full day or night of fun waiting for you.
Things to Do With a 2 Year Old in Orlando - SEA LIFE Aquarium
Speaking of SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, it’s among the best things to do in Orlando with kids as well! With more than 5,000 sea creatures, your family can dive into an underwater world of exploration.
Don’t miss the 360-degree ocean tunnel where you’ll spot your favorite fish and marine mammals. For the little ones, head to the interactive rockpool and children’s play area for hands-on discovery.
On average, families take about 90 minutes to walk through the entire aquarium but feel free to take your time. With so many attractions in the area, you’re set for hours upon hours of entertainment.
photo credit: SEA LIFE Aquarium (Orlando) via Facebook
Madame Tussauds Orlando
Also situated near SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and ICON Orlando is Madame Tussauds. Your children will enjoy posing with their favorite celebrities, sports stars, icons, and movie/TV characters.
Everyone from Taylor Swift to Albert Einstein is at Madame Tussauds Orlando!
For a great visit, make sure you charge your phone and bring your camera. And, remember to have enough memory on your phone for endless pictures! There’s a photo opportunity around every corner.
photo credit: Madame Tussauds Orlando via Facebook
Fun Places for Toddlers in Orlando - Crayola Experience
Looking for things to do in Orlando with toddlers besides Disney? Ideal for younger children, the Crayola Experience immerses visitors in a world of color and creativity.
This interactive destination features 26 exciting attractions, including Melt & Mold, Drip Art, Wrap It Up!, Toddler Town, Crayon Factory, and more. With two levels of non-stop fun, plan to spend at least four to five hours exploring all the Crayola Experience has to offer.
And, since being so creative will work up an appetite, families can grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant. Of course, the Crayola Cafe is just as vibrant and fun as the attractions!
photo credit: Crayola Experience Orlando via Facebook
Chocolate Kingdom Factory Tour
Among the tastiest things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney is the Chocolate Kingdom Factory Tour. Come hungry and leave happy as you learn about the chocolate-making process and taste samples along the way.
There’s no need to wonder why kids love this tour so much. The answer’s chocolate!
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Guests also have the opportunity to receive a personalized chocolate bar. It’s almost like receiving your own golden ticket to Willy Wonka’s factory. If your family has a sweet tooth, a trip to this chocolicious tour is a must.
photo credit: St. John's United Methodist Christian Preschool via Facebook
Orlando Shows
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
When you’re looking for something other than an attraction to entertain your family, bring them to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.
As soon as you enter the towering castle, your family is swept back in time to, well, the Medieval Times! Watch as knights participate in acts of heroism, jousting, and acrobatics all to win the tournament.
Kids have a blast cheering on their section’s knight to victory! Will your knight win the competition?
Best of all, dinner is included. But be warned, this is Medieval Times—utensils haven’t been invented yet! While kids love devouring their meal with their hands, parents may not enjoy it too much.
But don’t worry, you can bring your own utensils if you wish. Of course, there are plenty of napkins to go around!
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure
If your family is up for a swashbuckling voyage, then should be on your list of things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney. Consistently voted as “Best Dinner Show in Central Florida,” Pirate’s Dinner Adventure features a massive 18th-century Spanish ship with 40-foot masts anchored in a 300,000-gallon indoor lagoon.
Throughout the show, performers execute incredible stunts timed to mind-blowing special effects and pyrotechnics.
Families with children who are easily frightened by loud noises may want to heed caution before attending this show. Although it offers unbelievable entertainment, for parents looking for things to do in Orlando with a toddler or young children, this show may be a bit much for them.
Orlando has much more to offer to families than just Disney World. While everyone should go to Disney at least once, don’t let it be the only thing you experience in Orlando!
What’s your family’s favorite thing to do in Orlando that’s not Disney World?
Join the conversation below.
