Things to Do in Orlando with Kids Anytime of Year

How great is it to be a parent in Orlando? Whether you live here or visiting, you can always find something to do. Anytime of year brings lots of fun, and of course summer is full of water activities while the holiday season brings joyous celebrations.

Right now we’re sharing the best activities for kids and things to do in Orlando with kids, no matter the time of year. These classic ideas never go out of style.

Also check out these weekend events for kids.

Things to Do in Orlando with Kids

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL

With over 350 animals from more than 100 species, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardnes is a great family excursion on a summer day. Not only can you visit the animals, but you can feed the giraffes, zip through the Seminole Adventures Aerial Zipline Course, get in-depth info from the keeper chats, or book an encounter with the zoo’s rhinos.

Camps, tours, and private events and excursions are available.

More about the Central Florida Zoo:

Insect Exhibit at Central Florida Zoo
Insect Exhibit at Central Florida Zoo Dani Meyering

Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

1101 Audubon Way, Maitland, FL 32751

Get up close and personal with some of nature’s top predators at the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey. This small lakeside nature center is the perfect place for a peaceful afternoon out with the kids.

Owl at Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
Owl at Audubon Center for Birds of Prey Dani Meyering

Take a self-guided tour of the grounds, and learn as you go via signage, videos, and firsthand observation. See falcons, kestrels, eagles, and more, and follow the boardwalk path over the lake to a lovely dock, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.

The nature center is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-4pm.

Cost: $8 per person, children under 3 free

Orlando Museum of Art

2416 N Mills Avenue

With 10 to 12 exhibits on display, the Orlando Museum of Art provides access to art for all ages. In addition to strolling through the galleries, you can register your children (grades 1-12) for summer art camp!

Orlando Science Center

777 E Princeton Street

Educational and exciting opportunities come to life in interactive and hands-on experiences at the Orlando Science Center. Visit on your own, plan for a scheduled experience or check out the camps and other programming available.

Dig for Dinosaur Bones at Orlando Science Center
Dig for Dinosaur Bones at Orlando Science Center Dani Meyering

More About the Orlando Science Center:

Educational Activities

Amusement Parks + Attractions

Obviously, Orlando is world-famous for its larger-than-life amusement parks, making it a popular summer vacation destination.

Fun Spot Orlando

5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando

This family-owned theme park combines an arcade with thrill rides, kids rides, and a splash pad for the best of all worlds! Reserve a cabana for a little extra privacy and a quiet home base while the kids enjoy the fun!

Gatorland

14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando

See ya later, alligator! At Gatorland, families can enjoy learning about alligators, crocodiles, reptiles, and even capybaras! The zoo also offers ziplining, a gator “night shine”, and interactive experiences.

Preschoolers and school-age kids will love the wild animals!

Rides at ICON Park

8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL

When you think of things to do at ICON Park the large observation wheel known as The Wheel probably comes to mind first. While The Wheel is fun for kids, especially the new on board game, there are other rides at ICON Park.

A train takes small kids and adults around ICON Park starting around 11:00am each day and into the evening. It is usually $4 for kids and $6 for adults. This simple little train is great for toddlers.

Another classic and simple ride at ICON Park is the carousel. Located at the front of ICON Park, the carousel is picturesque and charming.

Carousel with The Wheel at ICON Park Orlando
Carousel at ICON Park Orlando Dani Meyering

SEA LIFE Aquarium

8449 International Drive

The SEA LIFE Aquarium in ICON Park boasts Florida’s only 360º Ocean Tunnel, which is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for littles. Inside the aquarium, you’ll find jellyfish, sharks, turtles, octopuses, rays, seahorses, and so much more.

a young boy looks into a large habitat area at sea life aquarium in orlando

Check out all the exhibits, as well as some behind-the-scenes tours.

Dezerland Orlando

5250 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

The largest indoor attraction in the state, you’ll find all kinds of fun and thrills inside Dezerland Park. Try action-packed activities like bowling, go-karts, axe-throwing, laser tag, glow-in-the-dark golf, pinball and simulators for a full day of wild fun!

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Dani Meyering
Born and raised in the land of sunshine and dreams come true, Dani is a proud Orlando native. She loves sharing her hometown with others from the theme parks to Florida's natural beauty. With over 15 years of experience, Dani is thrilled to serve as our Managing Editor at Orlando Date Night Guide, Orlando Parenting, as well as Tampa Bay Date Night Guide.