Orlando Explore Local With RVshare

Yes, Orlando is full of grand theme parks, but there’s much more to the city than a certain charismatic mouse. This guide is perfect for those living in or near Orlando who want to get to know the city even more. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Orlando, this is the guide for you!

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

One of the best parts of The Sunshine State is getting out and about in the sun. Of course, you’re no stranger to carrying sunscreen around and being super conscious of your exposure, but here’s your friendly reminder just in case! 🙂

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs State Park is just a few minutes from downtown and is a beautiful place to spend the day. There’s lots to do here between land and water activities! Swim and snorkel in the beautiful crystal-clear waters. Take a hike on one of the many trails. This park is known for wildlife sightings, such as white-tailed deer, gopher tortoise, turkeys, and more. Remember to not approach animals in the wild and keep our wildlife safety tips in mind!

Lake Apopka North Shore

Another great area for hiking, boating, and more is Lake Apopka North Shore. This beautiful park has dozens of trails to stroll about. Bring your binoculars for bird watching or your boat to go fishing. Take the 11-mile Wildlife Drive, complete with a self-guided audio tour.

Lake Eola Park

Located right downtown, Lake Eola is a nice park for an afternoon picnic or catching a show at Walt Disney Amphitheater. There is a trail that loops around the lake, about 1 mile long and paved. 

Other Outdoor Activities in Orlando, Florida

Go Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding has become very popular over the last few years. This sport is both relaxing and beginner-friendly. Paddleboard Orlando is a great place to start! They offer over a dozen tours, or you can go out on your own. You can also rent kayaks and canoes here.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a new view of the city! Go on a hot air balloon ride from Orlando Balloon Rides. Their sunrise flights are absolutely breathtaking! 

These Orlando hot spots have great food and atmosphere, but there are so many we could add with these favorites. They make for great takeout options during coronavirus limitations, too!

DomuIf you’re in the mood for ramen and good drinks, head to Domu. They have the best ramen – vegan options, too! – with house-made noodles. Yum!

Black Rooster Taqueria

“Farm to taco” is what you’ll get at Black Rooster Taqueria. This restaurant creates mouth-watering dishes with sustainability and real ingredients in mind. Inside, you’ll find a cool Day of the Dead vibe, decorated with art from local artists.

Prato

Simplistic, warm, and rustic can be used to describe Prato. Head here for your next pizza night! Or pasta night… or any night, really!

Kadence

Head over the Kadence for some amazing sushi in a cozy, intimate setting. And we mean intimate – there are only 9 seats here! So yes, you’ll need to do some planning and make reservations, but yes, it is so worth it!

Ceviche

Ceviche is the “closest thing to Spain” with its amazing Spanish-inspired dishes. Enjoy some tapas and sangria in a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere.

The Ravenous Pig

We love the industrial vibe of The Ravenous Pig. While it’s a pretty meat-heavy menu, there are options for everyone. They also have their own brewery and tap room, so find your favorite brew and take a growler home.

Se7en Bites

Se7en Bites is open for the three best meals of the day – breakfast, brunch, and lunch! It will be hard to narrow down your choices here, but whatever you land on will be amazing. 

Enzos on the Lake

Last but definitely not least on our list is Enzos on the Lake. This fine dining Italian restaurant is right on Lake Fairy has been family owned and operated for nearly 40 years. They have perfected delicious recipes, especially their homemade pastas. Their ravioli is a must-try!

Dinner and a Show

Looking for an untraditional friend outing or to spruce up date night? Try one of these truly one of a kind dining experiences that you’ll remember for years to come!

Medieval Times

Watch jousting and more while you eat like kings and queens! Enjoy a four-course meal and drinks throughout the show. (Vegetarian options available!)

Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show

Help solve the mystery! During your first course, you’ll be treated to a comedy show littered with clues. Then it’s up to you and your table to piece them together and solve the crime while you eat. Detectives will be roaming about to answer questions before revealing the criminal at evening’s close.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition Dinner Gala

While you can visit the Titanic Artifact Exhibition at any time, it’s much more fun to attend the dinner gala. It’s here where you can be a private dinner guest onboard the ship as you celebrate the retirement of Titanic’s Legendary Captain.

Fun Things to Do in Orlando, Florida

If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Orlando this weekend – or anytime – there is no shortage. From educational opportunities to getting active to finding the perfect places to shop, we have you covered!

Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art is filled with fun stuff for the whole family. The museum itself typically has at least 10 exhibits to walk through on your own or with a guide. Create your own masterpiece with the help of an art teacher at Art Night Out. Attend Cocktails & Conversation to discuss art appreciation and analyze work together – connoisseurs or novices are welcome! There’s truly an endless amount you can explore at the OMA!

World Chocolate Museum

Ever want to see 25 sculptures made entirely of chocolate? Now you can at the World Chocolate Museum. Here you can also learn how chocolate is made and head into the tasting room where you can sample the best chocolate from around the world.

Orlando Science Center

Kids and life-long learners love the Orlando Science Center. Explore nearly a dozen exhibits and workshops in the Kinetic Zone, DinoDigs, and observatory, and more. Or cool off and catch an educational show in one of three state-of-the-art theaters. 

Family Activities in Orlando

We have to state the obvious – the entertainment factor of these world-famous parks is major and worth noting. There’s a reason why people travel from all over the world to visit them! The perk of living in the area means you can pop in whenever you want and on off-seasons. We know you already know them, probably very well, but here are some favorites that are worth visiting!

Disney World

Disney has four theme parks that are not just for kids! Parents and couples can have just as much fun at the parks or attending fun annual events. There are also two water parks, Blizzard Beach & Typhoon Lagoon. Disney has amazing discounts for Florida residents, so be sure to check them out!

Universal

Universal has three great parks, and with Harry Potter World being here, we trust people of all ages will love to get here any chance they can! Enjoy the parks and events year round. Be sure to also see what discounts are available as a resident of Florida.

Legoland

Legoland is another fun park with rides, super cool and detailed models, and more. There’s a water park as well to cool off in after you’ve spent the day plotting what your next Lego model will be.

ICON Park

Not a major theme park, but definitely worth noting is ICON Park. Enjoy a fun-filled day at the aquarium, Madame Tussauds’ wax museum, shops, restaurants, and more!

While this can vary from year to year, some of the parks above may be less busy during the following months!

• January – mid-March

• Late August – October

• Late November – Early December

Open-air shopping is a great way to enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine! And what’s also great is also having delicious restaurants and entertainment within reach. Perfect for an all-day excursion! Do a little shopping, grab brunch, some more shopping, catch a movie, then dinner… You get the drift! You can do all that and more by heading to the spots below!

• Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

• Disney Springs

• Winter Park Village

Orlando offers loads of great yoga studios, gyms, and spas to take care of your mind and body. Many even are offering online classes during COVID. Here are just a few to check out!

• Project 7 Yoga

• College Park Yoga

• Iron Religion Gym

• Power Strength Gym

As much as there is to do in Orlando, there’s so much to do within just a couple hours of the city. 

Blue Spring State Park

Blue Spring State Park is about an hour from Orlando and is so worth the drive! Manatees love Blue Spring, as well as many other fish and wildlife. You can rent kayaks and canoes and even take a guided boat tour. Camp here for a fun weekend getaway and take a hike on Pine Island Trail.

Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is just over an hour from Orlando and makes for a wonderful day trip! Leisurely stroll through the 50-acre gardens, tour the 20-room mansion, and learn about The Singing Tower. There’s even a special children’s garden. Bok Tower also has great nature trails, perfect for learning about Florida’s ecosystem and wildlife. 

Beach Day

Some of the best beaches around are within an hour of Orlando! So load up the family and head to one of these beaches.

• Daytona  – about an hour away. Drive and park right on the beach! Makes it easy to unload all the beach necessities. Daytona Beach Pier and Boardwalk also has great activities and entertainment for the whole family!

• New Smyrna Beach & Melbourne Beach – about an hour away and an hour and a half away, respectively. Both beaches are quiet and give a very quaint old coastal town vibe.

• Cocoa Beach  – a little over an hour. This beach is great for fishing and surfing. It’s also close to Kennedy Space Center.

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Orlando that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Orlando? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.