10 Experiences in Orlando Besides Theme Parks: Part I

If you’re moving to the Theme Park Capital of the World, you are probably like us and enjoy spending time in the parks. Orlando is a great place for theme park lovers because there are so many options in and nearby Central Florida. But, there is also so much to experience in Orlando aside from the theme parks. We thought it would be fun to explore the other things you can do that make living in Central Florida so fun. Because there is just so much to do when you live in Orlando, we decided to split this series into a few articles. I hope you find some exciting adventures in the first installment!

Andretti Indoor Karting and Games

Endorsed by racing legend Mario Andretti, this indoor go kart experience is located near International Drive and offers multiple floors of things to do. Experiences range from karting, bowling, rope courses, arcade games, laser tag, and more.

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures gives you the chance to explore the Florida Everglades on six passenger airboats. They offer both daytime and night time tours. These are a great way to experience Florida wildlife.

Bok Tower Gardens

Image Source: BokTowerGardens.org

An hour south of International Drive, you will find this National Historic Landmark. Bok Tower Gardens beautiful sites of endangered plants, conservation lands, woodland gardens, nature trails, and citrus groves. One thing I found neat about this place is you can also pay $5 to bring your dog. It sounds like a fun way to spend the day with your furry friend.

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

With more the 500 animals and 23 acres of native gardens, the Central Florida Zoo is great for all ages. For the kids, you’ll find a children’s play area with animals they can pet and splash playground. For adventure seekers, there is even an aerial zip line experience.

Crayola Experience

Image Source: CrayolaExperience.com

The Crayola Experience is the place to go for family friendly fun. Located at The Florida Mall, you’ll find hands-on experiences, interactive digital art, and even a live show. You can even create, name, and wrap your own crayon.

Dezerland Park

This entertainment destination is close to International Drive. There are multiple experiences to be had here including an auto museum, pinball palace, bowling, trampoline park, go karts, and more.

The Escape Game Orlando and Escapology

If you’re into escape rooms, Orlando has got you covered. Both The Escape Room Orlando and Escapology are located on International Drive. Both include an immersive experience as you solve puzzles, complete missions, and race against the clock.

Gatorland

Gatorland is the place to go to observe alligators and crocodiles. There is a lot more to do there as well such an aviary, petting zoo, nature walk, bobcats, and more.

Giraffe Ranch

Image Source: GiraffeRanch.com

In doing the research for this article, I’ve come across many places that I’m excited to try. This place in particular stands out. As a DVC owner, I do love staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge and seeing the giraffes. But, at Giraffe Ranch, you can actually get up close and personal and even feed a giraffe. Giraffe Ranch has 47 acres of savanna you can explore with other animals as well.

iFly Orlando Indoor Skydiving

At iFly Orlando, you can experience the excitement and feeling of skydiving without having to jump out of a plane. Instead, they create a vertical wind tunnel to provide the floating experience without the need for equipment.


There is no shortage of things to do in Central Florida. While researching for this article, I found so many places and experiences I am excited to try and share with you in future articles. If you are ready to make the move to Florida and take advantage of all the great entertainment opportunities, our Moving to Orlando REALTORS are here to help you navigate the market. Take a moment to fill out our contact form, and someone will be in contact with you!

Amy Krieger

Amy loves all things Disney from the theme parks and resorts to the beloved films. She and her husband, Paul, are originally from Wheeling, West Virginia. They now live in Central Florida with their two fur kids, Odie the greyhound and Hermes the Spanish galgo. As Disney Vacation Club members and Disney World Annual Passholders, they visit Disney World and other Disney properties as often as possible. Full time, Amy is the Manager of Loan Origination for Monera Financial, a World of DVC company where she helps buyers finance DVC contracts. She is also a contributing writer for a few DIS websites.

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