GROUPON GUIDE TO ORLANDO

7 Things to Do in Orlando with Kids (Besides Disney)

BY: Sarah Gorr | Jun 21, 2018

Orlando has a rep has one of the most family-friendly cities in America (it is home to The Most Magical Place on Earth, after all). But what if you want to explore a little deeper? Then you're in good luck because there are plenty of things to do in Orlando with kids, specifically things to do in Orlando with kids besides Disney World. Check out our list of some of our favorite attractions an up the fun on your next trip to The City Beautiful.

Sea Life Orlando Aquarium

Just because Orlando's not on the coast, it doesn't mean you can't see marine wildlife up close. Head to this aquarium to see six types of sharks, colorful jellyfish, and Ted, the park's only rescued sea turtle.

Did you know?: Sea Life has the only 360-degree underwater aquarium tunnel in Florida.
Freebies: Every hour or half-hour (depending on the area), you can attend free educational discussions on each of the aquariums three major sections.

Lake Eola Park

Located in downtown Orlando, the centerpiece of this park might surprise you: it's a sinkhole. Well, it used to be a sinkhole. Today, it's a gorgeous lake famous for its center fountain. Find a little respite from the sun on its shady paths or lounge on the lawns.

Hit the water: You can rent a classic swan boat for a trip around the water; each boat holds up to five people.
Check for events: The park hosts farmer's markets, fireworks displays, and more so make sure you check the calendar before dropping by.

Skeletons: Museum of Osteology

Ready to get a little dark? Head to this quirky museum that's home to more than 500 real animal skeletons ranging from teeny little hummingbirds to enormous whales and big game animals.

Did you know?: Only 26 pieces of the collection are replicas, the rest are 100% real bone.
Don't miss: the complimentary scavenger hunt; winners have a chance at special prizes

Gatorland

Florida is known for its gators and there's no better way to learn about the creatures up close than at this fun attraction. See albino alligators, check out gator wrestling, and even take an off-road adventure that includes singing guides and fun park characters.

Don't miss: the Screamin' Gator Zip Line, which stretches over 1,200 feet long and sends guests sailing over gators and crocs below
Prefer feathers to scales?: head to the Very Merry Aviary where you can feed and hold bright, colorful parakeets and other birds

Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek

Shake things up with a little bit of history at this historical park. The grounds contain an array of structures that show what the Florida landscape used to look like from a 19th-century blacksmith shop to a re-creation of a Seminole village.

Great outdoors: The village is next door to the Mary Kendall Steffee Nature Preserve so make time for a little hiking afterward.
Top-rated: It's earned a 4.5-star rating from our customers making it a definite fan fave.

SunRail

The SunRail isn't a typical subway or commuter train. It's a brightly colored and beautifully painted old train that zips you from one end of Orlando to the other. A quick ride can give you respite on a rainy day as well as being a fun way to get around.

Pro tip: Save your ticket; some museums and attractions around town will give you a discount if you produce your SunRail ticket stub.
Best for: younger kids, especially those that love trains; for older kids it's more practical than fun

7D Dark Ride Adventure

A visit here is like a trip to the future and a theme park all at once. The interactive experience combines a video-game element with 3D, wind, and moveable seating to create total immersion. As far as Orlando kids activities go, we think this one's a no-brainer.

Compete for #1: High-scorers won't just see their name at the top at the end of the game, they'll make it into the hall of fame.
See the skyline: The ride is just across the way from the ICON Orlando ferris wheel, so hop aboard for killer views when you finish the game.