Say what you will about the tourist-filled parts of Orlando, but thrill seekers and theme park enthusiasts flock to the city for good reason. There are a lot of local attractions to sort through, but only a select few every new resident needs to visit at least once to consider themself a local. Some are action-packed, some are nature-infused, some are just weird — but they’re all endearingly Florida.

From reptile zoos to indoor action parks to roadside stops and plenty of theme parks, here are 23 quintessential Orlando “tourist traps” every new Orlandoan should visit. 

Dezerland Park

5250 International Drive, Orlando
This massive indoor amusement center offers plenty to do for the whole family, including a bowling alley, go-karts, a movie theater and more. Dezerland is also home to the Orlando Auto Museum, showcasing thousands of vehicles, all valued at more than $200 million. Credit: Photo via Dezerland Park/Facebook
Orlando Science Center 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando If you want to experience some naturally occurring thrills while learning about the world around you, Orlando Science Center has it all. With options and exhibits fit for all ages, it’s a great spot to take the kiddos or enjoy with a group of friends. Credit: Photo via Orlando Science Center/Facebook
Visit the Central Florida Zoo 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a relatively cheap spot perfect for all ages. The zoo offers scads of animal viewings and tons of educational opportunities, with general admission tickets ranging from $15 to $25, depending on the time of year and age of the ticket holder (but the extra-little ones age 2 and below get in free). Credit: Photo via Central Florida Zoo/Facebook
The Florida Prize group exhibition opens at OMA Credit: Photo via Orlando Museum of Art

Conquer a meal at Medieval Times

4510 W. Vine St., Kissimmee
You don’t have to re-watch Game of Thrones to get in the medieval mood. Right here in Orlando we’ve got jousting knights, mass amounts of bourgeois screaming for bloodshed, and the expectation that you’ll eat with your hands. If that last part’s got you twisted, drink away your reluctance with a strawberry Maiden’s Kiss. Credit: Photo via Medieval Times/Facebook

Prance through Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
Open 365 days a year, this historic landmark is known for its Art Deco singing tower and nearly 50 acres of scenic gardens to explore. Bok Tower Gardens single-day admission is $17 and will get you access to garden areas and the 3.5-mile Pine Ridge Preserve hiking trail. Credit: Photo via Bok Tower Gardens/Facebook

Icon Park

8375 International Drive, Orlando
It’s theme park-adjacent, but it’s much more modest than the House of Mouse and its peers. Icon Park offers Madame Tussauds Orlando, Sea Life Orlando Aquarium and Museum of Illusions and more at the 20-acre International Drive entertainment complex. Take a ride in the Orlando Eye observation wheel and take in the Central Florida views from 400 feet up. Credit: Photo via Icon Park/Facebook
Safari Wilderness Ranch 10850 Moore Road, Lakeland Lakeland’s Safari Wilderness offers its guests a first-hand drive-through experience featuring plenty of exotic wildlife. Safari Wilderness prides itself on being totally different than a zoo or theme park; its emphasis is on immersing its guests in nature. Credit: Photo via Safari Wilderness Ranch/Facebook
Orange World is just what is sounds like: one big orange-themed extravaganza Credit: Shutterstock
Wekiva Island 1014 Miami Springs Drive, Longwood Get some much-needed summer sun without having to plan an entire day trip at this Central Florida favorite. Just under a 30-minute drive from Orlando, Wekiva Island offers plenty of water fun for kids: Rent a kayak or paddleboard, play beach volleyball or just splash around in the cool, clear waters. Credit: Photo via Wekiva Island/Facebook
Legoland 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven Legoland offers 150 acres of interactive theme park activities and viewings geared for families with young kids, although it works for Lego lovers of all ages. There are more than 50 rides, shows and attractions at the Winter Haven park. Credit: Photo via Legoland/Facebook
Credit: Photo via Walt Disney World/Facebook
Not paying attention to where you’re walking You will trample a kid! Credit: Image via Adobe

Gatorland

14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando
Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve located right here in Orlando, along South Orange Blossom Trail. The spot was founded 73 years ago by Owen Godwin on former cattle land, and has ever since been a wildlife adventure and adventure park. Guests can watch the gator feeding shows, hold baby gators or hang out in the petting zoo. Credit: Photo via Gatorland/Facebook

Paddle your way through Lake Eola Park

512 E. Washington St., Orlando
Right in the heart of Orlando is Lake Eola Park, a glistening body of water surrounded by ample space for picnicking, sightseeing and taking a breather just outside of the bustle of downtown. It’s an essential spot for Orlandoans to know – and bonus points for actually riding in the tourist-adored swan boats. Credit: Photo via Lake Eola Park/Facebook
WonderWorks 9067 International Drive, Orlando This all-around entertaining attraction offers an “amusement park for the mind.” Visit the I-Drive emporium for a glimpse into more than 100 exhibits and attractions that will make you scratch your head in confusion or widen your eyes in surprise. There’s also laser tag, a ropes course and a 6D motion ride. Credit: Photo via WonderWorks/Facebook

Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards

37 minutes from Orlando
Lakeridge Winery brings a tiny taste of Napa Valley to Central Florida. The more-than-80-acre plot of grape-planted vineyards is the perfect place to get lost in Central Florida. Traveling wine lovers and connoisseurs can sample local wines and spend the day in the sunny countryside. Credit: Photo via Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards/Facebook
SeaWorld will be closed several days this week due to Milton Credit: Photo via SeaWorld Orlando/Facebook
Magic Castle Gift Shop 7646 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee You’ve driven past it, you’ve seen photos of it, but have you ever been inside? This Orlando landmark has little to offer besides Disney merchandise from years past and kitschy knickknacks, but it sure is a trip. Credit: Image via Google Maps

Feed your creativity at Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park
This attraction remains a less touristy sight well worth seeing. The Morse Museum houses the most comprehensive collection of the works of stained glass pioneer Louis Comfort Tiffany in the world, including the masterpiece that is the Tiffany Chapel. Credit: Photo via Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art/Facebook

Inhale some fresh air at Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs, FL 32779
This stunning spring is less than 20 minutes from downtown Orlando, inviting locals to escape the city and enjoy all that nature has to offer. The emerald water is perfect to dive into and cool off with friends and family. There’s ample space to have a picnic, making it a top contender for Orlando’s best summer hangout. Wekiwa Springs also has its very own food truck for those who didn’t pack enough snacks. Credit: Photo via floridastateparks.org

Take a Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour


It may not sound like the most thrilling activity to do around town, but these tours draw crowds for a reason. Tourists and locals alike stand to learn something from these slow-traveling vessels and their brave, actually entertaining, guides. You’ll get to see all the flora and fauna in the area, plus you’ll get a front-row seat to see the biggest, fanciest homes Winter Park has to offer. Credit: Photo via Winter Park Boat Tours/Facebook
Monument of States 300 E. Monument Ave., Kissimmee Built as a symbol of American unity after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Monument of States was created with donations of stone that came from around the world, including a rock from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Credit: Photo via FloridaMemory.com

Additional Slideshows

24 kid-friendly activities within easy driving distance of Orlando