Unique Things To Do Orlando

Unique Things To Do Orlando: Exploring the Theme Park Capital

Orlando, Florida is widely known as the theme park capital of the world, and for good reason. With world-famous attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, millions of visitors flock to the city each year to experience these iconic parks. However, there’s more to Orlando than just theme parks. In fact, the city boasts a plethora of unique things to do that extend beyond the typical tourist attractions. Here are some of our favorite unique activities to experience in Orlando.

1. Take a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

Orlando’s skyline is one of the most iconic in the world. Imagine floating above the city as the sun rises, casting a warm orange glow over the city’s famous landmarks. This is exactly what a sunrise hot air balloon ride offers, an unforgettable experience that will forever be etched in your memory. You’ll soar above the city streets while taking in breathtaking views of attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Companies such as Orlando Balloon Rides offer these unforgettable hot air balloon rides, with safety as the top priority.

2. Go on a Scuba Diving Adventure

Orlando may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience the thrill of diving underwater. Just an hour away from the city, you’ll find Blue Grotto, a picturesque underwater cave system with crystal clear waters. Here, you’ll get to witness incredible marine life, including turtles, fish, and eels, all whilst exploring the awe-inspiring underwater caves. If you are an experienced diver, you can explore the caves on your own or with a guide for those who are new to scuba diving.

3. Tour the Harry P. Leu Gardens

If you are looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, then the Harry P. Leu Gardens is an excellent way to do just that. The 50-acre botanical garden is named after the late businessman Harry P. Leu and his wife Mary Jane, who donated their personal estate to the city of Orlando. The gardens showcase over 30 different plant collections, including butterfly gardens, bamboo gardens, and more, making it an ideal place to enjoy a serene stroll while surrounded by nature’s beauty.

4. Visit Gatorland

Gatorland is one of the oldest and most unique attractions in Orlando, and it offers a different experience from the major theme parks. Here, you’ll get to see over 2,000 alligators and crocodiles, including rare species such as the white alligator, as you explore the park’s themed exhibits. Visitors can experience thrilling activities such as zip-lining over the park’s gator-infested waters or even challenge their bravery by taking on the nerve-wracking Screamin’ Gator Zip Line. Additionally, Gatorland is an excellent place to get up close and personal with local wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and wading birds.

5. Take a Food Tour around Orlando

Orlando is a foodie’s paradise, and there’s no better way to experience the city’s diverse culinary scene than by taking a food tour. The Orlando Food Tours offers a variety of food experiences where you can sample some of the city’s delicious cuisine. For example, the Eastern European Tour showcases restaurants serving authentic dishes such as pierogies and schnitzel, whereas the Downtown Food Tour takes visitors around downtown Orlando, stopping at popular local eateries. These tours provide an excellent way to explore the city’s food scene and learn a little about the city’s culinary history along the way.

Conclusion

Orlando is an exciting destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With something for everyone, from world-class theme parks to natural wildlife experiences and unique activities like hot air balloon rides, Orlando offers a plethora of activities that will make your trip unforgettable. So, whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or even on a solo adventure, make sure to add some of these one-of-a-kind experiences to your itinerary, and see Orlando like never before.

Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Unique Things To Do Orlando

What are some unique dining experiences in Orlando?

Orlando is not just famous for its theme parks, but also for a wide range of unique dining experiences. Some of the best ones are:

The Dinner Party Project – It is a unique dining experience that combines food, art, and conversation.
The Chef’s Table at the Edgewater Hotel – It is a unique dining experience that offers a five-course meal with a fantastic view of the city skyline.
The Pharmacy – It is a secret bar that serves excellent craft cocktails, and you can enter it through a hidden door in the back of an old pharmacy.

1. The Dinner Party Project combines food, art, and conversation.
2. The Chef’s Table at the Edgewater Hotel offers a five-course meal with a fantastic view of the city skyline.
3. The Pharmacy is a secret bar that serves excellent craft cocktails.

What are the most unique museums in Orlando?

Orlando is home to a diverse range of museums that go beyond the traditional ones. Some of the most unique museums are:

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum – It has all kinds of exhibits that feature strange and bizarre objects, from shrunken heads to a two-headed calf.
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art – It showcases an extensive collection of stained glass created by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
The Orlando Science Center – It has interactive exhibits spanning topics from biology to outer space.

1. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum has strange and bizarre exhibits.
2. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art showcases an extensive collection of stained glass created by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
3. The Orlando Science Center has interactive exhibits spanning topics from biology to outer space.

What are some unique outdoor activities in Orlando?

Orlando has plenty of outdoor activities that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of Florida. Some of the best ones are:

Wekiwa Springs State Park – It is a natural oasis located just a short drive away from Orlando and offers activities like canoeing, hiking, and swimming.
Tree Trek Adventure Park – It is an aerial obstacle course that features zip lines and rope bridges set among the treetops.
Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens – It is a unique combination of a zoo and a botanical garden with a range of animals and plants on display.

1. Wekiwa Springs State Park offers activities like canoeing, hiking, and swimming.
2. Tree Trek Adventure Park is an aerial obstacle course that features zip lines and rope bridges set among the treetops.
3. Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a unique combination of a zoo and a botanical garden with a range of animals and plants on display.

What are some unique shopping experiences in Orlando?

Orlando is a shopper’s paradise, with a diverse range of shopping experiences that go beyond the standard malls. Some of the best ones are:

The Mall at Millenia – It has an indoor ice skating rink, a Mediterranean-inspired food court, and upscale stores like Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
Park Avenue – It is a charming shopping district in the heart of Winter Park, with boutique shops, art galleries, and outdoor cafes.
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets – It has over 160 outlet stores and offers savings of up to 65% off retail prices.

1. The Mall at Millenia has an indoor ice skating rink, a Mediterranean-inspired food court, and upscale stores.
2. Park Avenue is a charming shopping district in the heart of Winter Park, with boutique shops, art galleries, and outdoor cafes.
3. Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets has over 160 outlet stores and offers savings of up to 65% off retail prices.

What are some unique nightlife experiences in Orlando?

Orlando has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of unique experiences that cater to all tastes. Some of the best ones are:

Blue Martini – It is a classy lounge with live music, over 40 different martinis, and an extensive menu of tapas.
ICEBAR – It is a bar made entirely of ice, complete with ice sculptures and even the glasses are made of ice. It’s a unique way to enjoy a night out.
The Wall Street Plaza – It is a collection of bars and restaurants in downtown Orlando that together make up a lively nightlife district with outdoor seating and live music year-round.

1. Blue Martini is a classy lounge with live music, over 40 different martinis, and an extensive menu of tapas.
2. ICEBAR is a bar made entirely of ice, complete with ice sculptures and even the glasses are made of ice.
3. The Wall Street Plaza is a collection of bars and restaurants in downtown Orlando that together make up a lively nightlife district with outdoor seating and live music year-round.

Common Misunderstandings Regarding Unique Things To Do Orlando

Misconception 1: Unique Things to Do in Orlando Are Only for Kids

It is a common misconception that the unique things to do in Orlando are only for kids. While it is true that the city is known for its theme parks and attractions, there are plenty of options for adults as well. For instance, the city has numerous fine dining options, cultural events, and outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, and hiking.

Misconception 2: The Best Time to Visit Orlando is During Summer

Another misconception about Orlando is that the best time to visit is during the summer. However, this is not entirely true. While summer may be the peak tourist season, it is also the hottest and busiest time of the year. Crowds can be overwhelming, and the heat can be oppressive. In contrast, the fall and spring seasons are often more comfortable and serene, making them a great time to visit Orlando.

Misconception 3: Unique Things to Do in Orlando are Expensive

Many people believe that the unique things to do in Orlando are expensive, especially if they involve visiting theme parks and other major attractions. While it is true that the admission fees at such places can be high, there are many low-cost options as well. For example, some parks offer discounted admission after a certain time of day, or on specific days of the week. Additionally, the city has numerous free events, like outdoor concerts and festivals, that can provide visitors with a unique and affordable experience.

Misconception 4: The Only Thing to Do in Orlando is Visit Theme Parks

Another commonly held belief about Orlando is that the only thing to do in the city is to visit theme parks. While the city is known for its many theme parks, there are also many other unique things to do in Orlando. For example, visitors can explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene by attending performances at local theaters, museums or art galleries. They can also indulge in some retail therapy by visiting the city’s numerous shopping and entertainment venues.

Misconception 5: Orlando is Only for Out-of-Town Visitors

Finally, there is a misconception that Orlando is only for out-of-town visitors. Many locals mistakenly believe that the city’s unique attractions are only for tourists. However, this is far from the truth. There is plenty to do in Orlando for those who call the city home. From exploring the neighborhoods’ historic districts to checking out local farmers markets or food trucks, there are countless options for residents to discover and enjoy in Orlando.