Heading to Orlando and not visiting the happiest place on earth? You know what? Disney isn’t for everyone! Maybe your kids aren’t old enough to make it worth it. Maybe it’s outside your price range for a vacation, or maybe Disney just doesn’t interest you. There are plenty of things to do within the Orlando area that isn’t Disney. If this is something that interests you, then keep reading!
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As I write this, my kids are ages 2 and 4. I know when we experience Disney as a family, it is going to be wonderful and magical. But when we go, I want to make sure we are going to get the most out of our experience and we don’t have to schedule our day around nap times. Orlando is a popular winter destination for eastern Canadians so if you’re not going there to go to Disney, here is what you need to do.
Crayola Experience
We visited the Crayola Experience earlier this year and had a blast. If you’re looking for a hands-on, interactive, and relatively low-cost outing with the family, this is the place for you. The admission includes access to various hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and artistic adventures. Each station offers the artists to play and get creative. It reminded me of Ikea but for artists! Here are some of the stations you can expect.
- Wrap It Up: At Wrap It Up, families can design their crayon labels, creating unique and personalized souvenirs. Whether you choose to put your name, a special message, or a favorite character on the label, the possibilities are endless.
- Drip Art: Get ready to make a splash at Drip Art! Here, you can melt crayons and watch in awe as they transform into vibrant, swirling works of art. Kids will enjoy the process of creating their masterpieces, which can be taken home as a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
- Modeling Madness: Unleash your creativity in the Modeling Madness station, where you can mold and shape Crayola Model Magic into colorful sculptures. From animals to abstract designs, this tactile experience allows families to bring their imaginations to life.
Before leaving the Crayola Experience, you exit through the gift shop where you can purchase an assortment of Crayola products. We walked away with the model clay and plush toys for the kids. I 10/10 recommend making this a family outing next time you’re in Orlando! If you want to see my complete overview of the experience, check out my TikTok video.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a great alternative to still get that “Disney” theme without going to a Disney theme park. Although Disney Springs is predominately a shopping destination, it is free to enter, and there still are a few little rides and attractions to see that make it worth your while. Located in the heart of Orlando, this vibrant outdoor entertainment complex offers a world of excitement, shopping, dining, and more. Here are some of my go-to stops.
- The Lego Store: If you’re into Lego, this is like being a kid in a candy store.
- Hot Air Balloon: The World Leader in Balloon Flight, providing a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area.
- Earl of Sandwich: I’m sorry, but if you are around an EoS and don’t get one, you’re missing out!
- The NBA Experience: Here, basketball fans of all ages immerse themselves in the world of professional basketball, testing their skills and participating in interactive activities.
- World of Disney: Here is your opportunity to immerse yourself in a shopping experience that is everything, Disney.
There is plenty of options for everyone in the family with over 100 retail options, food outlets, and activities. The complex also features live entertainment, street performers, and musical acts, creating a festive atmosphere that adds to the magic. The waterfront area hosts various performances, including live music and shows, providing the perfect backdrop for strolling about.
Icon Park
Icon Park may be one of the most underrated destinations to explore in Orlando. We visited the SeaLife Aquarium at Icon Park this year and were surprisingly impressed with the area. Not only is it clean with plenty of things to do in the area, it wasn’t CROWDED! You will be able to find something here that is suitable for all ages. Here are some good recommendations.
- SeaLife Aquarium
- Icon Park Ferris Wheel
- Yardhouse Restaurant
- Merry-Go-Round and/or Mini-train
- Madame Tussauds
You can check out my TikTok videos for our experience at the SeaLife Aquarium here.
Topgolf
If you’re a golf enthusiast looking for a unique and entertaining golfing experience, look no further than Topgolf! Combining the thrill of a driving range with the lively ambiance of a sports bar, Topgolf offers an unforgettable blend of golf, food, and fun.
Top Golf is probably one of my favorite activities as an “adult night out” in Orlando. It’s. an opportunity to relax, practice your golf game, and enjoy the company around you. It is very similar to a bowling alley, as you have your own designated bay for your group to play out of. There are a variety of golf flags in the range for you to try to aim at. Depending on which flag your ball lands, and how far it is, gauges your total score for the round.
You can check out my TikTok review on our latest Topgolf outing here.
If you are looking for the best accommodations in the Orlando area, then you can check out this blog post.