Last month in our Around The World series, we covered street food scene of Amsterdam and this month we would list down 10 things to do in Orlando, USA. The idea of this series is to bring best of the world which is full of travel inspiration. It covers the places beyond India where we have been to or we intend to be in future.
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While it is true that hundreds and millions of tourists and travelers arrive in Orlando because of those amazing theme parks, it is equally true that there are fun and entertainment here even beyond those theme parks. There are plenty of things to do here in Orlando for those who don’t fancy amusement parks and for those who have done their round of the amusement parks. While the city’s major fun and attraction are taken up by the famed line-up of theme parks, you will be surprised to know that there is a lot more going on if you look past those parks.
The surrounding area around Orlando promises plenty of alternatives and is home to a diverse array of neighborhoods. There are fun things to do around Orlando that are sure to pique your interest and creativity.
Here are some of the most fun things to do –
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ICON Orlando – 30 minutes from Orlando

By Steveo89 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=44017941
Standing at 400 ft tall, ICON Orlando boasts of being the highest observation wheel on the east coast. If you want to enjoy a grand view of the Floridian skyline, then the best way to do so is by getting inside one of those air-conditioned pods of ICON. You can plan a great get-together here with your friends or set up a romantic date in those capsules. Enjoy quality time in the ultimate ride apart from the 360-degree views.
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Bok Tower Gardens – 30 minutes from Orlando
If you want to experience the real Florida at its best, then explore the Bok Tower Gardens where you will see the nature at its peaceful and tranquil best. It is at a distance of about half an hour from Orlando and is one of the best-kept secrets of Florida. Bok Tower Gardens are spread across 50 acres and boasts of a 205-foot deco and neo-Gothic Singing Tower. It is indeed a genuinely extraordinary place where one can spend a relaxing day away from the crowds.
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Kennedy Space Center – 60 minutes from Orlando

By NASA/photographer unknown – Great Images in NASA Description, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6449032
The Kennedy Space Center complex offers you a glimpse into the life of an astronaut and to help you get a good sense of what space is all about. Explore those high-tech and interactive exhibits within the Kennedy Space Center. Talk to a real astronaut and enjoy the highlights which include the Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit and the Shuttle Launch Experience. Now you can explore the past, present, and future of the space and even without entering the space. Get the chance to see Space Shuttle Atlantis and the Saturn V moon rocket align with other replicas and displays. Get to know the stories of NASA’s pioneering astronauts and a lot more during your holidays to Orlando.
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Giraffe Ranch – 70 minutes from Orlando
Can you feed a giraffe in Orlando? Well, sure you can, and all you need to do is visit Giraffe Ranch which is located in Dade City. Get a firsthand experience of how the giraffe lives. The Ranch is spread across 47 areas and is right next to the largest wilderness area. Enjoy looking at the giraffe and other species, and you will feel as if you are right in the middle of Africa. Take a guided tour with a knowledgeable and experienced guide through the farm and wildlife preserve.
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Gatorland – 35 minutes from Orlando
You will love being in the Gatorland that offers the visitors to get up-personal and close with an alligator. Once you are done with the alligators, you can enjoy the 30mph ride high over the park’s crocodiles in a Zip Line. Get the chance to spend some time with the baby alligators and learn how to feed them. The affordable fun is one of the oldest attractions here and offers the chance to see alligators and crocodiles and an aviary. There is an observation tower, petting zoo, and a splash pad for the children.
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World of Chocolate Museum – 30 minutes from Orlando
Have you ever wondered how chocolate is made? Well, this is your chance to find the answer as well as try out some of the best chocolate in the world. Start the45-minute guided educational tour with a visit to their tasting room and sample the finest chocolates. Travel back in time to learn about the history of chocolate and cacao. You will be amazed to see recognizable landmarks of the world made entirely out of solid chocolate.
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Dr. Phillips Center – 10 minutes from Orlando
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is home to several Broadway productions. Located in downtown Orlando, the center hosts award-winning productions in its three theaters. Do not miss the chance to interact with stage actors and you can even enroll for dance classes with Broadway actors. This is an inspirational, creative place where people meet others with similar interests and are introduced to the arts in many ways.
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Crayola Experience – 16 hours from Orlando
Discover the magic of color at the Crayola Experience center which is located at The Florida Mall. It is like every child’s dream come true and is a major family attraction. The whole family can enjoy a full day with creative play and colorful fun with crayons. They can learn how crayons are made as well as sculpt colorful creations or watch their digital art comes to life on an enormous interactive wall.
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Kissimmee – 60 minutes from Orlando
The city of Kissimmee is located towards the northwest side of Lake Tohopekaliga. The area boasts of several walking trails, fishing pier, and playgrounds. Another major lure that is catching up here the mountain biking because of the addition of the 32-mile Shingle Creek
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iFLY Orlando Indoor Skydiving – 30 minutes from Orlando
Discover the experience the true free fall conditions at iFLY and take advantage of the free fall conditions of skydiving. Now you can jump within the vertical wind tunnel that creates a wall-to-wall cushion of air. There is no parachute here, and you can enjoy the same experience without jumping from an airplane. It is super fun and super safe and can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
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If you feel motivated, please share this blog post with your loved ones so that they can break the mundane cycle of everyday life and explore the world.
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World of chocolate museum, ❤
Wish I can be there someday.
Amazing post to read! I am going to Orlando next year and would love to explore Kennedy Space Center. Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂