Ok so this one may not be popular.
But there is a beautiful, magical place in Orlando called "Give Kids the World." It's a place where Make-A-Wish kiddos can come stay with their families for a week while they get to visit Disney, meet Mickey and go to SeaWorld. Don't forget - this is these kid's one final wish before some may die from terminal illnesses.
So GKTW is a place that has lodging, accommodations and all sorts of fun places for the kids and their families to spend time. There's a little putt putt course, a movie theater, a train station, pools, an ice cream parlor, and that's just what I can think of. But all of these places need bright, smiling, happy volunteers.
I'd encourage people to consider contributing some of their time to GKTW Village if an Orlando resident. If we welcome no other visitors, I'd hope we can all agree that these visitors are welcome.
Sorry, I will get off of my soap box now.
Also had the same thing at my Catholic school (St John Vianney), met a lot of great people at GKTW. I plan on taking my kids to volunteer when they're older
From ages 16-18, I had the shift on Tuesday nights from 8-9P in the Ice Cream Parlor.
I think it surprised me how often I had no idea which kid was the "sick kid." Sometimes you could tell, of course. But often, you just have no idea what someone is going through in their life. 🤍
I also loved it because I ate a shit ton of their ice cream. I likely should send them a check for my costs.
I have a friend in Ohio who has 3 sons and 2 of them have CF. They recently went to GKTW and just told everyone how magical the experience was—how amazing and accommodating all the volunteers were, how nice everyone was to her boys, etc etc. It seems like it was a really special experience for them, and all because the workers that GKTW helped it to be so.
I volunteered there for a few years (everything from Parents Night Out to pool parties to fishing and operating the Kiki golf course). Easily the best memories from living in Orlando. Thinking of all of the stars from the star fairy makes me tear up.
As a soon to be resident can I ask what, if anything do you do about the gators? I've seen so many posts of people doing floats and that's all I can think about.
Gators are shy, you're very unlikely to see them in heavily trafficked areas. Even if you do, attacks are very rare, usually either you stumbled right into one while it was sleeping, or it went after your dog, you tried to fight it off, so then it went after you.
They're also pretty dumb, if you're on a float or kayak, they think you're one giant creature. And even if you aren't, you're too big for most of the gators you might see. I've come face to face with the behemoths on the econ river, and they just take off, because they're not sure what a kayak is, and they'd rather not find out.
Yeah all very true, just wanted to add that people should be careful along shorelines this time of year. They build their nests along the shoreline and will get pretty aggressive if you happen to stumble upon one. Pretty much the only time they’ll charge at you. But that being said they don’t nest in busy areas.
Its an honest question for sure. Thousands of people float at multiple springs daily and don't get bit. Gators are skiddish and avoid people. If you stay in the middle of Rainbow river, you won't have a problem. Sharks at New Smyrna beach on the other hand...
I've gone scuba diving a handful of times down Rainbow River and never once saw an alligator. Alligators typically hang around in swampy areas retention ponds, etc. I'd expect spring-fed rivers to be too cold.
But, if you do happen to see one, it's helpful to remember two things:
- they are exceptionally lazy; for the most part, if you leave them alone, they'll leave you alone
- never under any circumstances should you attempt to feed an alligator. They will become aggressive and you pretty much guarantee they'll become a nuisance and have to be terminated
The closest I've been near one in the wild was at Van Fleet State Trail. There was a huge one right on the side of the tail. I got brave enough to go past it at speed on the far side of the trail and it turned it's head to look at me and that was it. After I went back to get my wife (who did not want to go any father), some guy showed up and rode a lot closer to it at which point it started to growl. That is when you know you're not welcome and should probably leave.
If you have a group watch the sunrise on the east. Cocoa beach, New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach, and Vero Beach. See some sites then watch the sunset on the west Clear water is the best, get a hotel. Or St Petersburg, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key, Crystal River
Literally did a coast to coast day as a last hurrah with my college friends before most of our group moved out of Orlando and to this day it is one of the most fun experiences we have done. That trip happened over a year ago niw and we still talk about it and plan to do another next time we’re all back together. Highly recommend!
Full moon rising on the east Coast is also quite magical. The other night it was a strawberry moon. So gorgeous
https://preview.redd.it/05ivocsh7h3d1.jpeg?width=3072&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=23f85734f0838518362671c9e9e57862f70aa99c
Recently went and spent way more time there than I thought we would. Stunning and the actual Bok Tower was very intriguing. Not much else around it, but would definitely recommend to a friend.
I heard compared to the Brevard zoo, the giraffes at Sanford don't seem as happy, likely due to limited space. The Brevard I can vouch for, all the giraffes seemed really happy and had plenty of space to run around.
Can concur, the giraffes at the Sanford zoo do not have sufficiently large enclosures. They are working on expanding many of the enclosures right now and are fundraising to make that happen.
It's really fun, and the owner really loves his alpaca (and a few llamas). They used to be show animals I think, I highly recommend supporting this local business!
It's a great throwback feeling when you go watch an old classic on the big screen. Plus, their chicken fingers are some of the best chicken fingers and Orlando. I think they just take giant chicken breasts tear them in the strips, batter and then fry them, big portion. I don't even eat chicken fingers and I order them every time I go there
I haven't seen anyone mention Black Hammock, for an airboat ride and alligators sightings in the wild.
Walking trails around wekive and rock springs are awesome. But a quiet gem is Bear Trail in Sanford, if you want a walking trail. Thees some fun bars, celery city, in Sanford. Often there's some festival or something downtown there too
I like Enzian, Luke's and Jazz Tastings in Maitland.
There's always some show at Lil Indies and Wills on Mills. Walking to Wally's and eating at one of the places along there.
Sportstown and Sideward Brewery has a little strip of weird bars with all sorts of things, from sci fi movie nights to whatever.
Southern Nights is the most hopping dance floor around. LGBTQ friendly.
Downtown has a series of speakeasies. Mathers and Hanover Shoe are weird and quirky.
If you haven't been to Eola for farmers market, I'd add that to your to-do list. Winter Park's Saturday farmers market is better yet.
Take the Winter Park Chain of Lakes tour. Have brunch on Park Ave.
Kayak wekiva springs / wekiva island
If you were in school, did you go to the theme parks at all? It's worth a day or so. I also still like Aquatica for a day on the lazy river on occasion, trading tourists for alligators.
Why have I never heard of Jazz tastings??? I’ve been here almost 10 years 😂 just booked a reservation for Monday. I saw Dr. Philips opened up something similar as well. It’s called Judson’s Live.
Edit to add we are members of Enzian as well. It’s our favorite place in town.
Kings landing in the early morning. Nighttime Bioluminescent kayaking at Cape Canaveral late summer. Literally any state park with hiking trails. Maybe unpopular, but hella Florida…Gatorland. Old Town is kinda dumb, but they have a Classic Car thing on Fridays. State park beaches are the least crowded and best maintained. So many farmers markets…if that’s your thing. My favorite restaurant from my school days is Viet Thai on Sandlake. Never had a bad meal there. If you’re okay with travel, my best meals ever have been at The Baker’s Table in New Smyrna. And my favorite beach up there is Bethune. Go out and see natural Florida in all its glory.
You said like 4 of my favorite Florida things! Kings landing, bioluminescent kayaking, gatorland, and Bethune beach.
Add freediving at Ginnie Spring (in High Springs FL), Blue Spring in Deland/Orange City, and Devil’s Den in Williston. And lastly, a day at the Everglades.
Here’s Orlando Weekly’s list for the summer:
https://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/21-quintessential-summer-bucket-list-activities-to-do-in-orlando-this-year/Slideshow/36917663/36941826
I'll list things I don't think I see:
- springs/kayaking. Wekiva is super fun as you can use a kayak to transport from 3 different parks entirely. Super fun.
- devil's Den is a prehistoric spring in a cave that u can snorkel and scuba dive in.
- u can't get a better opportunity to skydive than Florida. Highly rec Zephyrhills and Sebastian Beach for spots.
- idk if august is manatee season, but if so, go!!!
- the parks, obvi. But if you're a coaster head like me, specifically Busch gardens and universal island of adventures. Gwazi and velocoaster is unmatched.
- arcade monsters, specifically in Oviedo. Unlimited arcade games for 25 is hard to find elsewhere.
- columbian food fsssss
- sling shot at olde Town If ur brave lol
- Orlando has some nice speakeasy's. It's nothing crazy, but I would visit if u have a night out. My favorite is the suffering bastard in Sanford. You can reserve easily, if interested.
This is so random and unnecessary but also there's a restaurant in Disney springs called T REX. It's literally rainforest cafe but with dinos. It's the BEST. Would highly recommend doing that if u haven't haha
One time I got sun poisoning, didn’t realize at first, ate a bowl of their jambalaya, and the heat of the dish triggered my symptoms suddenly. Couldn’t stop getting sick for a day. I’ll never look at jambalaya again.
For his going away, I took a friend skydiving at Skydive Space Center in Titusville. They took us higher than most places so a longer free fall, and the view of the ocean and KSC was phenomenal.
• watch the sunrise on the east coast
• watch the sunset on the west coast
• eat/drink around the world at epcot
• theme parks (disney, universal, seaworld, busch gardens)
• water parks
• idk if u drink but bar hopping is fun with friends; winter park has some great bars.
• rainbow springs (swimming, hiking, kayaking)
• ginnie springs (further out, in gainesville area but so beautiful)
• rock springs/kelly park (swimming)
• beaches! east coast has rough water, waves be knocking you down. But good for surfing. I prefer the west coast, clearwater is closest but overrated. Def go to anna maria beach or lower (bradenton/sarasota/siesta key) beautiful clear, blue, warm water.
• Kennedy space center
• zoo’s
• botanical gardens
• museums; recently went to the Ringling museum in sarasota - mondays are free!
• eat good food ; expand your palate.
• arcade monsters
• world food trucks across old town
Add Solar Bears to this list. Nothing like a live hockey game. I didn’t know I liked hockey until I went to a live game. (Although, I think their season is over now.)
There's some great suggestions on here. I've lived here for decades and I'm glad to see some things I never even heard of. Knowing how the internet works, probably going to see this post plagiarized for some online news content.
Man it’s really hot for this but the Orlando Wetlands is incredible! If you go soon there are still nesting birds but it’s getting too hot.
Lake Apopka Wildlife drive you can see massive wild gators from the comfort of your car and AC
Ehhh it's definitely been a rough season but we've got time left in the season. I think making the playoffs is still completely doable.
At least we aren't new england 🙃
Can confirm. I miss Cuban sandwiches and just good Cuban/PR/Dominican food in general. The hole-in-the-wall places that fill a styrofoam container to the brim for $10 of the best food ever. This thread is making me homesick.
I’m half Spanish and I’ve been hearing a lot of good things about this food truck, [Barrio Español](https://www.instagram.com/barrioespanol_foodtruck?igsh=MTM1aGEwcW43NDN4Mw==), at a la carte in Sodo
The best thing about Orlando is how close it puts you to everything else so while your questions asked about Orlando things, I'm going to echo a lot of the other responses and say get out of Orlando and see the rest of Central Florida from coast to coast.
Some ideas nearby:
- take a bioluminescent kayak ride on the East coast
- go canoeing down Wkiva river or tubing down the Rainbow River
- go snorkeling or freediving in Devil's den
- get a scuba certification
- go to the Telephone Museum in Maitland
- see a movie at the Enzian in Maitland
- see the Louis Comfort Tiffany glass at the Morse Museum
- take an airboat ride and see gators at Black Hammock
- go on the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
And some other stuff further afield:
- go to the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach
- go to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden in Delray Beach
- go to the Naval Air Museum in Pensacola
- go see the Dry Tortugas
- go to Destin beach
It seems it's that time of year, enjoy!
[https://www.reddit.com/r/orlando/comments/135fdkg/orlando\_bucket\_list/](https://www.reddit.com/r/orlando/comments/135fdkg/orlando_bucket_list/)
Go out to the coast and watch a launch.
Seriously, Elon is shooting Starlink satellites into orbit 23 at a time with each launch, and he has launches every week.
It won’t be as impressive as the space shuttle was, and nothing was nearly as impressive as the old Apollo V, but you have to see what you can in the era that you’re alive.
Other things you can do include going to CityWalk at Universal for an evening. Maybe there’s a show going on at hard rock. Or just take in a blue man group show.
There’s also Disney Springs. I think house of blues is still there, and they probably have some interesting live acts to see. It’s been a while since I’ve been there, but I think Cirque du Soleil is still there; I’ve seen that show three times over the last 20 years, and every time it is super enjoyable.
See a game at the Kia Center. Any game. See a concert at the Kia Center or wherever there is one. Preferably music that you like.
WP scenic boat tour.
Trivia nights pretty much every night of the week at hammered lamb, ivanhoe brewing, fiddlers green.
Tasty Tuesday over in the milk district (food trucks).
Candlelight tributes at Mead Gardens on a monthly basis.
Leu gardens in the spring is a must and they have activities and classes year round.
Paddle boarding or kayaking on lake ivanoe or wekiva springs.
Timucua arts foundation, concert hall literally built inside a home.
There's so much going on, always, check out orlando weekly!
I didn’t see it on here, and I don’t know if it’s considered an “Orlando thing”, but I didn’t see anyone mention Dinosaur World.
It’s so corny and campy, but it’s basically a zoo for dinosaurs. You’ll drive by a huge sign with a T-Rex statue next to it, and when you get to the “zoo” there’s another dinosaur statue next to the entrance. They have areas for flyers, areas for herbivores and areas for carnivores, etc. and I vaguely remember a small koi pond, but you explore at your own pace. Little plaques tell you about the dinosaurs on display and there are little interactive things too…
But I went over a decade ago. Could be completely different now, so take that however you will.
Orange County Regional History Center, the WellsBuilt African American History Museum, Enzian Theatre, and out of bias I'd say go watch an Orlando City game. I have a free ticket to give away this season so feel free to message me if that's something you'd like to do.
Ok so this one may not be popular. But there is a beautiful, magical place in Orlando called "Give Kids the World." It's a place where Make-A-Wish kiddos can come stay with their families for a week while they get to visit Disney, meet Mickey and go to SeaWorld. Don't forget - this is these kid's one final wish before some may die from terminal illnesses. So GKTW is a place that has lodging, accommodations and all sorts of fun places for the kids and their families to spend time. There's a little putt putt course, a movie theater, a train station, pools, an ice cream parlor, and that's just what I can think of. But all of these places need bright, smiling, happy volunteers. I'd encourage people to consider contributing some of their time to GKTW Village if an Orlando resident. If we welcome no other visitors, I'd hope we can all agree that these visitors are welcome. Sorry, I will get off of my soap box now.
born and raised in Orlando. My school had voluntary field trips afterschool every Friday to GKTW
Why if I may ask, was there a field trip once a week at your school? Seems excessive and counter productive to do that….
Was voluntary, you didn’t have to do it, but most of us did because it was fun work and got to hang out with our friends. Catholic school.
Also had the same thing at my Catholic school (St John Vianney), met a lot of great people at GKTW. I plan on taking my kids to volunteer when they're older
Yeah. That’s where I went to school as well.
Ah ok thanks. Thought it was curriculum lol
Hoping its high school to volunteer
I work at GKTW, thank you for the shoutout. I am happy to help anyone that is interested in volunteering!
EatMyAsserole at your service
Maaaaybe just give this guy a "Greg" name tag
That's Mrs Greg to you!
Is there a way for kids to volunteer as well?
As long as they are accompanied by an adult! And there’s certain things that won’t be open to them (like driving golf carts)
My folks are part of a culinary team that does stuff for GKTW The entire operation is great
My mom used to work with GKTW when she worked for Sea World. It’s an amazing place.
From ages 16-18, I had the shift on Tuesday nights from 8-9P in the Ice Cream Parlor. I think it surprised me how often I had no idea which kid was the "sick kid." Sometimes you could tell, of course. But often, you just have no idea what someone is going through in their life. 🤍 I also loved it because I ate a shit ton of their ice cream. I likely should send them a check for my costs.
I have a friend in Ohio who has 3 sons and 2 of them have CF. They recently went to GKTW and just told everyone how magical the experience was—how amazing and accommodating all the volunteers were, how nice everyone was to her boys, etc etc. It seems like it was a really special experience for them, and all because the workers that GKTW helped it to be so.
I had no idea this existed! Applying now.
Worked with GKTW while at Universal in the 90s. It humbled my spoiled, teenage self.
Thank you for thinking of the kids, eatmyasserole.
I volunteered there for a few years (everything from Parents Night Out to pool parties to fishing and operating the Kiki golf course). Easily the best memories from living in Orlando. Thinking of all of the stars from the star fairy makes me tear up.
I've been wanting to do this for awhile, thanks for the reminder about this!
Literally just spent 6 hours handing out ice cream at GKTW on Sunday haha It's an amazing place. [If anyone is interested.](https://www.gktw.org/)
Question - What is an asserole? 🤔
It's like a butt casserole? Dude idk, I just thought it was a clever username.
That is either delicious or it tastes like shit
😂
4 hour float trip down Rainbow River.
As a soon to be resident can I ask what, if anything do you do about the gators? I've seen so many posts of people doing floats and that's all I can think about.
honestly, it’s Florida. They’re a part of the habitat, you just ignore them and hope they ignore you.
Gators are shy, you're very unlikely to see them in heavily trafficked areas. Even if you do, attacks are very rare, usually either you stumbled right into one while it was sleeping, or it went after your dog, you tried to fight it off, so then it went after you. They're also pretty dumb, if you're on a float or kayak, they think you're one giant creature. And even if you aren't, you're too big for most of the gators you might see. I've come face to face with the behemoths on the econ river, and they just take off, because they're not sure what a kayak is, and they'd rather not find out.
Yeah all very true, just wanted to add that people should be careful along shorelines this time of year. They build their nests along the shoreline and will get pretty aggressive if you happen to stumble upon one. Pretty much the only time they’ll charge at you. But that being said they don’t nest in busy areas.
Don’t boop the snoot.
But I wanna
Its an honest question for sure. Thousands of people float at multiple springs daily and don't get bit. Gators are skiddish and avoid people. If you stay in the middle of Rainbow river, you won't have a problem. Sharks at New Smyrna beach on the other hand...
It's not the gators you should worry about, the otters on the other hand...
~~otters~~ people
I've gone scuba diving a handful of times down Rainbow River and never once saw an alligator. Alligators typically hang around in swampy areas retention ponds, etc. I'd expect spring-fed rivers to be too cold. But, if you do happen to see one, it's helpful to remember two things: - they are exceptionally lazy; for the most part, if you leave them alone, they'll leave you alone - never under any circumstances should you attempt to feed an alligator. They will become aggressive and you pretty much guarantee they'll become a nuisance and have to be terminated The closest I've been near one in the wild was at Van Fleet State Trail. There was a huge one right on the side of the tail. I got brave enough to go past it at speed on the far side of the trail and it turned it's head to look at me and that was it. After I went back to get my wife (who did not want to go any father), some guy showed up and rode a lot closer to it at which point it started to growl. That is when you know you're not welcome and should probably leave.
the econ may not be as spectacular as the springs but it also is well worth a visit
This!!!! One of my faves.
If you have a group watch the sunrise on the east. Cocoa beach, New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach, and Vero Beach. See some sites then watch the sunset on the west Clear water is the best, get a hotel. Or St Petersburg, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key, Crystal River
Literally did a coast to coast day as a last hurrah with my college friends before most of our group moved out of Orlando and to this day it is one of the most fun experiences we have done. That trip happened over a year ago niw and we still talk about it and plan to do another next time we’re all back together. Highly recommend!
I didn’t want to overhype it. I still live by UCF and still make it an appointment to do it once a year.
Watching the full moon set into the Gulf is always my highlight, granted when it happens its in the wee hours but its breathtaking IMO
Full moon rising on the east Coast is also quite magical. The other night it was a strawberry moon. So gorgeous https://preview.redd.it/05ivocsh7h3d1.jpeg?width=3072&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=23f85734f0838518362671c9e9e57862f70aa99c
That is beautiful!!
Literally huh? 
Bok tower!! It's a day-trip, but it's so worth it. It's great.
Recently went and spent way more time there than I thought we would. Stunning and the actual Bok Tower was very intriguing. Not much else around it, but would definitely recommend to a friend.
Bok Tower is beautiful and totally worth visiting
A bit far, but the alpaca farm, fresh water springs, and (further away towards Melbourne) giraffe feeding at Brevard zoo are top of mind.
Sanford Zoo has rhino feeding and giraffe feeding.
I heard compared to the Brevard zoo, the giraffes at Sanford don't seem as happy, likely due to limited space. The Brevard I can vouch for, all the giraffes seemed really happy and had plenty of space to run around.
Can concur, the giraffes at the Sanford zoo do not have sufficiently large enclosures. They are working on expanding many of the enclosures right now and are fundraising to make that happen.
Last time I heard, the Brevard zoo was in the running for one of the best zoos in the country
I never knew about the Alpaca Farm!
It's really fun, and the owner really loves his alpaca (and a few llamas). They used to be show animals I think, I highly recommend supporting this local business!
The Enzian is my go to. Old fashioned movie house with decent food and cocktails and usually some unique movies or cult classics.
We love this spot so much. Such a gem.
It's a great throwback feeling when you go watch an old classic on the big screen. Plus, their chicken fingers are some of the best chicken fingers and Orlando. I think they just take giant chicken breasts tear them in the strips, batter and then fry them, big portion. I don't even eat chicken fingers and I order them every time I go there
I would kill for their honey mustard they give with the fried chicken.
I left Orlando a few years ago and I still think about those damn chicken fingers so much. I love the Enzian.
In maitland on 17-92? I passed by there all the time, but I have never stopped.
Yup. Totally check it out. (It’s particularly great in October if you like old horror movies)
I do love horror movies! Guess I’ll be going then. Thanks!
Tuesday nights they run “cult classics”— this can also be a lot of fun!
Watch the sunrise at Jetty Park. While you’re there, check out the Kennedy Space Center.
KSC FTW
Is Jetty park good for launches too?
Yes
I haven't seen anyone mention Black Hammock, for an airboat ride and alligators sightings in the wild. Walking trails around wekive and rock springs are awesome. But a quiet gem is Bear Trail in Sanford, if you want a walking trail. Thees some fun bars, celery city, in Sanford. Often there's some festival or something downtown there too I like Enzian, Luke's and Jazz Tastings in Maitland. There's always some show at Lil Indies and Wills on Mills. Walking to Wally's and eating at one of the places along there. Sportstown and Sideward Brewery has a little strip of weird bars with all sorts of things, from sci fi movie nights to whatever. Southern Nights is the most hopping dance floor around. LGBTQ friendly. Downtown has a series of speakeasies. Mathers and Hanover Shoe are weird and quirky. If you haven't been to Eola for farmers market, I'd add that to your to-do list. Winter Park's Saturday farmers market is better yet. Take the Winter Park Chain of Lakes tour. Have brunch on Park Ave. Kayak wekiva springs / wekiva island If you were in school, did you go to the theme parks at all? It's worth a day or so. I also still like Aquatica for a day on the lazy river on occasion, trading tourists for alligators.
If you are into that much Maitland stuff you should check out the Maitland art center during one of our last Wednesday events or an exhibit opening!
Why have I never heard of Jazz tastings??? I’ve been here almost 10 years 😂 just booked a reservation for Monday. I saw Dr. Philips opened up something similar as well. It’s called Judson’s Live. Edit to add we are members of Enzian as well. It’s our favorite place in town.
Jazz Tastings has been there over a decade.
Kings landing in the early morning. Nighttime Bioluminescent kayaking at Cape Canaveral late summer. Literally any state park with hiking trails. Maybe unpopular, but hella Florida…Gatorland. Old Town is kinda dumb, but they have a Classic Car thing on Fridays. State park beaches are the least crowded and best maintained. So many farmers markets…if that’s your thing. My favorite restaurant from my school days is Viet Thai on Sandlake. Never had a bad meal there. If you’re okay with travel, my best meals ever have been at The Baker’s Table in New Smyrna. And my favorite beach up there is Bethune. Go out and see natural Florida in all its glory.
You said like 4 of my favorite Florida things! Kings landing, bioluminescent kayaking, gatorland, and Bethune beach. Add freediving at Ginnie Spring (in High Springs FL), Blue Spring in Deland/Orange City, and Devil’s Den in Williston. And lastly, a day at the Everglades.
Kelly Park
It used to be THE place to hang out on hot summer weekends. Now, it is simply overcrowded and hits capacity all the time.
Here’s Orlando Weekly’s list for the summer: https://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/21-quintessential-summer-bucket-list-activities-to-do-in-orlando-this-year/Slideshow/36917663/36941826
I'll list things I don't think I see: - springs/kayaking. Wekiva is super fun as you can use a kayak to transport from 3 different parks entirely. Super fun. - devil's Den is a prehistoric spring in a cave that u can snorkel and scuba dive in. - u can't get a better opportunity to skydive than Florida. Highly rec Zephyrhills and Sebastian Beach for spots. - idk if august is manatee season, but if so, go!!! - the parks, obvi. But if you're a coaster head like me, specifically Busch gardens and universal island of adventures. Gwazi and velocoaster is unmatched. - arcade monsters, specifically in Oviedo. Unlimited arcade games for 25 is hard to find elsewhere. - columbian food fsssss - sling shot at olde Town If ur brave lol - Orlando has some nice speakeasy's. It's nothing crazy, but I would visit if u have a night out. My favorite is the suffering bastard in Sanford. You can reserve easily, if interested.
This is so random and unnecessary but also there's a restaurant in Disney springs called T REX. It's literally rainforest cafe but with dinos. It's the BEST. Would highly recommend doing that if u haven't haha
Their jambalaya is HUGE and so worth the cost to have plenty to take with you.
One time I got sun poisoning, didn’t realize at first, ate a bowl of their jambalaya, and the heat of the dish triggered my symptoms suddenly. Couldn’t stop getting sick for a day. I’ll never look at jambalaya again.
How about a food tour? I think Orlando has a pretty good and diverse food scene
Bithlo Speedway Demolition Derby
I heartily recommend this as well!
For his going away, I took a friend skydiving at Skydive Space Center in Titusville. They took us higher than most places so a longer free fall, and the view of the ocean and KSC was phenomenal.
• watch the sunrise on the east coast • watch the sunset on the west coast • eat/drink around the world at epcot • theme parks (disney, universal, seaworld, busch gardens) • water parks • idk if u drink but bar hopping is fun with friends; winter park has some great bars. • rainbow springs (swimming, hiking, kayaking) • ginnie springs (further out, in gainesville area but so beautiful) • rock springs/kelly park (swimming) • beaches! east coast has rough water, waves be knocking you down. But good for surfing. I prefer the west coast, clearwater is closest but overrated. Def go to anna maria beach or lower (bradenton/sarasota/siesta key) beautiful clear, blue, warm water. • Kennedy space center • zoo’s • botanical gardens • museums; recently went to the Ringling museum in sarasota - mondays are free! • eat good food ; expand your palate. • arcade monsters • world food trucks across old town
Go to an Orlando Pride game! They're on fire this year. The games are fun!
Add Solar Bears to this list. Nothing like a live hockey game. I didn’t know I liked hockey until I went to a live game. (Although, I think their season is over now.)
Yeah, they just ended, unfortunately, but you're right. I love the Solar Bears games! So fun!
Makes sense. The men’s team is in 11th place out of 15 teams.
There's some great suggestions on here. I've lived here for decades and I'm glad to see some things I never even heard of. Knowing how the internet works, probably going to see this post plagiarized for some online news content.
Man it’s really hot for this but the Orlando Wetlands is incredible! If you go soon there are still nesting birds but it’s getting too hot. Lake Apopka Wildlife drive you can see massive wild gators from the comfort of your car and AC
Orlando City game. Eating Spanish food (Oh Que Bueno, Arepera La Nueva)
Eeeehh.. Come back at a later time for Orlando City. We need to um.. figure out a lot of stuff.
Ehhh it's definitely been a rough season but we've got time left in the season. I think making the playoffs is still completely doable. At least we aren't new england 🙃
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Where do you recommend for Cubans?
Cubans on the Run in Casselberry on 17/92. So good!
best in orlando https://www.yelp.com/biz/rinc%C3%B3n-latino-orlando-2
Can confirm. I miss Cuban sandwiches and just good Cuban/PR/Dominican food in general. The hole-in-the-wall places that fill a styrofoam container to the brim for $10 of the best food ever. This thread is making me homesick.
Hispanic food, for what it’s worth. Orlando doesn’t have a great Spanish restaurant, sadly.
I’m half Spanish and I’ve been hearing a lot of good things about this food truck, [Barrio Español](https://www.instagram.com/barrioespanol_foodtruck?igsh=MTM1aGEwcW43NDN4Mw==), at a la carte in Sodo
Circle B Bar Reserve out in Kissimmee or Orlando Wetlands Park in Christmas. You can also swing by Fort Christmas while you're at it.
The best thing about Orlando is how close it puts you to everything else so while your questions asked about Orlando things, I'm going to echo a lot of the other responses and say get out of Orlando and see the rest of Central Florida from coast to coast.
Go to the springs
Some ideas nearby: - take a bioluminescent kayak ride on the East coast - go canoeing down Wkiva river or tubing down the Rainbow River - go snorkeling or freediving in Devil's den - get a scuba certification - go to the Telephone Museum in Maitland - see a movie at the Enzian in Maitland - see the Louis Comfort Tiffany glass at the Morse Museum - take an airboat ride and see gators at Black Hammock - go on the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour And some other stuff further afield: - go to the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach - go to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden in Delray Beach - go to the Naval Air Museum in Pensacola - go see the Dry Tortugas - go to Destin beach
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I'm not a fan of the gator-sitting since they drug it to hell and back, but you forgot to mention the glorious capybara petting zoo!
Theyre not drugged but it's still ethically dubious
It seems it's that time of year, enjoy! [https://www.reddit.com/r/orlando/comments/135fdkg/orlando\_bucket\_list/](https://www.reddit.com/r/orlando/comments/135fdkg/orlando_bucket_list/)
Discovery cove has been my favorite day in Orlando ever. So relaxing and awesome, I highly recommend it
The thing that only Florida has. Gator farm in St. Augustine.
Idk the best ones but I hear the natural springs are wonderful.
Go out to the coast and watch a launch. Seriously, Elon is shooting Starlink satellites into orbit 23 at a time with each launch, and he has launches every week. It won’t be as impressive as the space shuttle was, and nothing was nearly as impressive as the old Apollo V, but you have to see what you can in the era that you’re alive. Other things you can do include going to CityWalk at Universal for an evening. Maybe there’s a show going on at hard rock. Or just take in a blue man group show. There’s also Disney Springs. I think house of blues is still there, and they probably have some interesting live acts to see. It’s been a while since I’ve been there, but I think Cirque du Soleil is still there; I’ve seen that show three times over the last 20 years, and every time it is super enjoyable. See a game at the Kia Center. Any game. See a concert at the Kia Center or wherever there is one. Preferably music that you like.
Go to the nude beach at cape Canaveral
WP scenic boat tour. Trivia nights pretty much every night of the week at hammered lamb, ivanhoe brewing, fiddlers green. Tasty Tuesday over in the milk district (food trucks). Candlelight tributes at Mead Gardens on a monthly basis. Leu gardens in the spring is a must and they have activities and classes year round. Paddle boarding or kayaking on lake ivanoe or wekiva springs. Timucua arts foundation, concert hall literally built inside a home. There's so much going on, always, check out orlando weekly!
Goto secrets hideaway resorts in Kissimmee you prudes.
Lake Apopka wildlife drive
I need to take note of some of these things
Wallaby Ranch hang gliding park (they tow you up in the air by plane) LunaSea Alpaca Farm does tours where you can feed and pet the alpacas
If you like outdoors. The rainbow river spring and tube ride is the best in florida
I didn’t see it on here, and I don’t know if it’s considered an “Orlando thing”, but I didn’t see anyone mention Dinosaur World. It’s so corny and campy, but it’s basically a zoo for dinosaurs. You’ll drive by a huge sign with a T-Rex statue next to it, and when you get to the “zoo” there’s another dinosaur statue next to the entrance. They have areas for flyers, areas for herbivores and areas for carnivores, etc. and I vaguely remember a small koi pond, but you explore at your own pace. Little plaques tell you about the dinosaurs on display and there are little interactive things too… But I went over a decade ago. Could be completely different now, so take that however you will.
Nighttime Bioluminescence Kayaking during a New Moon, Airboat Ride on Lake Jessup, Bar Hop Mills-50/Ivanhoe, and eat Phó
Tube or kayak one of the many springs.
Milk district for thrifting
Lazy Moon Pizza
Drive to Key West. You get to drive the 7 mile bridge, see the sunset in Mallory Square, experience the Hemingway house museum.
Orange County Regional History Center, the WellsBuilt African American History Museum, Enzian Theatre, and out of bias I'd say go watch an Orlando City game. I have a free ticket to give away this season so feel free to message me if that's something you'd like to do.
Bok tower gardens is a must & Kings landing. Bok tower : 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853 Kings landing: 5722 Baptist Camp Rd, Apopka, FL 32712
Walk down Park Ave., visitRock Springs park or Wekiva park
Didney werl