Orlando’s Can’t-Miss Destinations: A Complete Guide

I first visited Orlando back in 2019, right before the world changed. The city was packed with visitors from every corner of the globe, and the energy was electric. When I returned in 2023, I found myself falling in love with Orlando all over again, but this time for reasons beyond the obvious theme parks and tourist spots.

What makes Orlando special is how it manages to be two cities in one. There’s the Orlando everyone knows – the one with magical kingdoms and wizard worlds – but then there’s the Orlando that locals cherish, with its tree-lined neighborhoods, food markets, and peaceful lakes. From hidden garden cafes to buzzing downtown spots, from historic districts to modern entertainment complexes, Orlando keeps surprising visitors who take the time to look deeper.

Want to know where to go in Orlando? I’ve put together this list based on countless hours exploring the city, combining both the must-see attractions and those special spots that most tourists never hear about. Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fifteenth, these places deserve a spot on your itinerary.

Walt Disney World Resort

No trip to Orlando is complete without visiting Walt Disney World Resort, spanning an impressive 25,000 acres just southwest of the city. Unlike other theme parks that focus solely on rides and attractions, Disney World creates an entire universe of experiences across its four main parks, two water parks, and Disney Springs. The moment you step through the gates, you’re transported into Walt’s carefully crafted world where fairy tales come to life and childhood dreams take center stage. Because of its massive size and popularity since opening in 1971, the resort has grown into its own city-like ecosystem, complete with themed hotels, restaurants, golf courses, and even its own transportation system. You’ll find locals and tourists alike wandering through Magic Kingdom’s iconic castle, exploring Epcot’s world showcase, or getting their adrenaline fix at Hollywood Studios.

Universal Orlando Resort

Many visitors flock to Universal Orlando Resort for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but this mega-destination offers much more than just magical experiences. The resort complex features three theme parks – Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay water park – along with multiple hotels and CityWalk, a dining and entertainment district. Whether you’re zooming through Jurassic World on the VelociCoaster, battling villains alongside Spider-Man, or relaxing in a cabana by the beach-style pool, Universal delivers experiences for every type of traveler. The parks host seasonal events throughout the year, including Halloween Horror Nights and holiday celebrations, but you’ll find plenty of excitement no matter when you choose to visit.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Ever wondered what it’s like to step into Harry Potter’s magical world? At Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can walk the cobblestone streets of Diagon Alley and explore the snow-capped towers of Hogwarts Castle. This immersive attraction brings J.K. Rowling’s beloved books to life, letting you sip real Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks, pick out a wand at Ollivanders, and zoom through the castle on the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. You can even hop aboard the Hogwarts Express at King’s Cross Station and travel between the two parks, just like Harry and his friends did in the stories. Die-hard fans will spot hundreds of details from the books, from the fire-breathing dragon atop Gringotts Bank to the talking portraits in the castle corridors.

SeaWorld Orlando

Of all the theme parks I’ve explored in Orlando, SeaWorld stands out as a unique blend of entertainment and marine education. This sprawling park combines thrilling roller coasters with up-close encounters with ocean life, letting visitors dive into both adventure and discovery. You can watch dolphins leap through the air, learn about penguin colonies, or feel your heart race on rides like Mako and Kraken. It’s not just about the shows and thrills – the park also does important work in marine animal rescue and conservation. While some debate the ethics of marine parks, SeaWorld has evolved to focus more on education and rehabilitation, making it a place where families can learn about ocean life while still enjoying classic theme park excitement.

International Drive

I always recommend International Drive to anyone visiting Orlando for the first time. Known by locals as “I-Drive,” this 11-mile stretch of road serves as Orlando’s main tourist corridor, packed with restaurants, outlet shopping, and entertainment spots. You’ll find popular attractions like ICON Park with its 400-foot observation wheel, WonderWorks with its upside-down building, and countless mini-golf courses and go-kart tracks dotting the strip.

Disney Springs

Think of Disney Springs as Orlando’s most laid-back entertainment district, where the magic of Disney meets everyday life. Unlike the theme parks nearby, this sprawling waterfront complex doesn’t require a ticket to enter, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. What started as a small shopping village in the 1970s has grown into a bustling destination with over 150 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Here you’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to quirky souvenir shops, celebrity chef restaurants to food trucks, and live music drifting through the streets almost every night. The architecture tells the story of an old Florida waterfront town, complete with bubbling springs and wooden boardwalks, while boat rides along the water offer a peaceful escape from the shopping crowds.

Universal CityWalk

Many visitors flock to Universal CityWalk Orlando for its restaurants and entertainment venues, but this lively complex serves as much more than just Universal’s dining district. There’s a mix of both casual and upscale spots – from the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium to the Hard Rock Cafe – that keep guests well-fed between their theme park adventures. The nightlife scene comes alive after dark with spots like Rising Star karaoke bar and the groove dance club, while daytime offerings include mini-golf and movies at the high-tech cinema. Even if you’re not heading into the Universal theme parks, CityWalk provides enough entertainment, shopping, and dining options to fill an entire evening in Orlando.

Lake Eola Park

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park serves as the city’s beloved backyard. Like many urban parks in Florida, it offers paths for walking and spots for picnicking, but what sets it apart is the large swan-shaped paddle boats gliding across its centerpiece lake. Because of its position as Orlando’s first public park, many locals have childhood memories of feeding the live swans, watching performances at the Walt Disney Amphitheater, or shopping at the weekly farmers’ market. The park’s iconic fountain, installed in 1957, continues to paint the night sky with colorful light shows, making it a favorite spot for both photographers and couples seeking a romantic evening stroll.

Winter Park

Of all the charming suburbs I’ve explored in Orlando, Winter Park stands out as something special. This well-heeled neighborhood, just northeast of downtown, feels more like a small European village than a Florida community. Park Avenue, the town’s main street, is lined with brick-paved sidewalks where local shops and sidewalk cafes create a laid-back atmosphere. It’s not your typical tourist destination – you won’t find roller coasters or themed attractions here – but those who venture over are treated to peaceful boat tours through tree-lined canals, weekly farmers’ markets, and some of the best local dining in Central Florida.

Icon Park Orlando

Located in the heart of Orlando’s entertainment district, ICON Park stands as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks since its opening in 2015. This 20-acre complex sits along International Drive, marked by its centerpiece attraction – The Wheel, a massive observation wheel that rises 400 feet into the Florida sky. During both day and night, visitors fill the open-air plaza, which wraps around a central courtyard dotted with palm trees and casual eateries. More than 40 restaurants and attractions call ICON Park home, including Madame Tussauds wax museum and the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. The complex’s brick walkways and string lights create an inviting atmosphere where families can spend hours exploring, dining, and making memories against the backdrop of Orlando’s skyline.

Gatorland

I always recommend Gatorland Orlando to folks looking for a taste of old Florida charm. Sprawling across 110 acres, this wildlife preserve and theme park lets you get up close with hundreds of alligators and crocodiles, from tiny hatchlings to massive 14-footers. The park combines educational shows with pure entertainment – you can watch gator wrestling demonstrations, zip line over the breeding marsh, or feed the gentle residents at the petting zoo. It’s been nicknamed the “Alligator Capital of the World” since 1949, and for good reason.

The Mall at Millenia

For high-end shopping in Orlando, I always direct visitors to The Mall at Millenia. Located just off I-4, this luxury shopping center brings together over 150 upscale stores and restaurants, including designer favorites like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. The modern, light-filled space features soaring glass ceilings and sleek architecture that creates a sophisticated atmosphere for both shopping and dining.

Orlando Science Center

Ever wondered what it’s like to walk on Mars or touch a real meteorite? At the Orlando Science Center, you can do both – and that’s just the beginning. This four-story wonderland of discovery lets visitors conduct their own experiments, explore the human body through giant models, and watch planets dance across the sky in one of Florida’s largest planetariums. Kids and adults alike get hands-on with science as they build and test rockets, meet native Florida wildlife, and dig for fossils like real paleontologists. The center’s constantly changing exhibits mean there’s always something new to learn, whether you’re interested in space exploration, natural ecosystems, or the physics behind your favorite theme park rides.

Leu Gardens

Tucked away in Orlando’s Winter Park neighborhood, the Leu Gardens has been a peaceful escape since 1936. This 50-acre botanical oasis began when Mr. and Mrs. Harry P. Leu donated their home and gardens to the city, leaving behind a legacy of natural beauty. The gardens feature Florida’s largest collection of camellias, along with towering oaks draped in Spanish moss and winding paths through tropical plants. A restored 19th-century house sits at the heart of the property, while butterfly gardens, palm groves, and a lake view create perfect spots for afternoon picnics. The garden’s year-round bloom schedule means you’ll always find something flowering, from azaleas in spring to roses in fall, making it a favorite retreat for both locals and visitors seeking a break from Orlando’s theme park energy.

Orlando Museum of Art

Founded in 1924, the Orlando Museum of Art stands as one of Florida’s oldest and most respected cultural institutions. Like many museums in major cities, it houses an impressive collection of American art and contemporary pieces. But what sets it apart is how it brings Florida’s artistic heritage to life through its Florida-focused exhibitions. As you wander through the light-filled galleries, you’ll find yourself surrounded by both nationally recognized masterpieces and works by talented local artists. The museum’s commitment to showcasing Indigenous art and African art collections offers visitors a chance to explore diverse cultural perspectives, while its rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover, even for frequent visitors.

Fun Spot America

Many visitors come to Fun Spot America Orlando for its famous wooden roller coaster, White Lightning, but this family-friendly amusement park offers much more than just thrilling rides. The park features multi-level go-kart tracks where both adults and kids can test their racing skills, along with classic fairground attractions like bumper cars and a Ferris wheel. While the big theme parks in Orlando tend to draw massive crowds, Fun Spot maintains a more relaxed atmosphere where families can enjoy shorter wait times and reasonable prices. Whether you’re looking to spend a few hours or make it a full day out, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options that cater to all ages and adventure levels.

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove Orlando stands apart from the typical theme parks that dot Central Florida’s landscape. Unlike its high-energy neighbors, this all-inclusive day resort limits daily attendance to just 1,300 guests, creating a peaceful escape where you can swim with dolphins, float down lazy rivers, and snorkel among tropical fish. The park feels more like a natural oasis than an attraction, with its winding paths leading through lush gardens and crystal-clear lagoons. Because Discovery Cove provides everything from meals to snorkel gear, visitors simply show up in their swimsuits and let the day unfold at their own pace. You’ll find locals and tourists alike seeking refuge here, especially during the busy summer months when other Orlando parks are packed to capacity.

Lake Nona

Looking for a peek into Orlando’s future? Welcome to Lake Nona, a forward-thinking community just 20 minutes from Orlando International Airport. This high-tech neighborhood feels like something out of a sci-book, with self-driving shuttles cruising the streets and innovation hubs dotting the landscape. Home to the USTA National Campus, where tomorrow’s tennis stars train, and Medical City, where groundbreaking research happens daily, Lake Nona blends work and play seamlessly. You can spend your morning cycling along 44 miles of trails, grab lunch at one of the food halls in the town center, then watch the sunset from the observation deck at Boxi Park, a unique outdoor venue made from shipping containers.

Winter Garden Historic District

Many visitors come to Winter Garden Historic District for its charming brick-lined streets and old Florida atmosphere, but this neighborhood offers much more than just historical buildings. The district serves as both a cultural hub and a laid-back escape from Orlando’s theme parks, with its weekly farmers market and year-round events drawing locals and tourists alike. The Plant Street Market has become a go-to spot for craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers, while the West Orange Trail provides a perfect setting for cycling and walking through the area. Though the district really comes alive during the evening art walks and outdoor concerts, you’ll find plenty to explore here any time of day, from local shops and restaurants to the historic Garden Theatre.

Park Avenue Winter Park

Looking for the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and small-town charm? Park Avenue in Winter Park feels like stepping into a European village, right in the heart of Central Florida. This brick-paved street lined with towering oak trees is where locals come to sip coffee at sidewalk cafes, browse through independent boutiques, and enjoy art galleries showcasing local talent. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Orlando, it’s a welcome escape from the theme park bustle, with the beautiful Central Park serving as its centerpiece. Here you can join residents for weekly farmers’ markets, catch free concerts in the park, or take a scenic boat tour through the interconnected lakes that surround the area.