11 Best Things To Do In Orlando, Florida (and how to get to them) – Hand Luggage Only

Orlando and the surrounding areas have heaps going on! It’s the kind of city in the United States that’s built for entertainment, and you’ll be spoilt for choice on your trip to the Sunshine State. Not only that, but many of the best things to do in Orlando are also suitable for families. This means that there is something for everyone here. 

Over the years, we’ve visited Orlando many times and always had a blast. It’s always a busy trip of hopping between Florida’s best theme parks, outlets and restaurants, but there’s also so much more to Orlando than that. If you want, you can easily visit Orlando and explore some of the state parks or small communities and sister cities that make this area so much fun.

Also, don’t forget about the best beaches in Florida that are just a day trip (or even a day trip) from Orlando itself.  Honestly, there is heaps to do in the area. 

So, to help you plan your trip, I’m sharing our top places in Orlando that I know you’ll love! This way, you can focus on all that enjoyment and not get bogged down with the planning. 

1.) Downtown Orlando (and Lake Eola)

Orlando has some epic theme parks, that’s a given, but there’s also a central downtown area of Orlando that’s well worth visiting once you arrive. Now, for us, we love going down to the area around Lake Eola Park (Google Maps pin). The whole area is lovely for a stroll, but it’s also got heaps going on, too. 

You’ve also got the Walt Disney Amphitheater (Google Maps pin), which regularly holds local plays and movies throughout the year. Also, don’t forget, you can rent a swan boat to paddle around Lake Eola, too. It’s so much fun, and you can grab a ticket at the boat station itself. Each swan holds five people, which means you can go with the kids! 

Read more: Best beaches in Florida to visit

2.) Walt Disney World

Okay, so Walt Disney World needs little introduction. It’s one of the best things to do in Orlando that, honestly, isn’t just for children. Big kids can enjoy Disney’s parks, too!

Now, there are heaps of theme parks to choose from. You’ve got the iconic Magic Kingdom, with the beautiful Cinderella Castle. Also, you have Animal Kingdom with all its safari animals and Avatar-themed areas. Then, you have Epcot, which is filled with different lands to visit; with the likes of England, Morocco, France, and so many more, you can visit….