Whether you’re extending your cruise or just exploring Orlando, here’s everything you can’t miss.
At iCruiseApp, many of our travelers ask: What else can we do before or after our cruise? If you’re sailing from Florida, Orlando (our home base) is one of the best places to extend your adventure. It’s packed with unforgettable experiences—from world-famous theme parks to hidden free gems.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best paid and free things to do in Orlando, broken down by category so you can plan like a pro. And if you’re looking to book tickets or full vacation packages, Contact Us and we’ll take care of the details and provide the best deals!
🎟️ Paid Attractions You’ll Love
🎢 Theme Parks & Signature Experiences
- Walt Disney World Resort: Four magical parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom—plus water parks and shopping.
- Universal Orlando Resort: Includes Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay water park.
- SeaWorld Orlando: Marine life shows, thrilling coasters, and animal encounters for all ages.
- LEGOLAND Florida Resort: Geared toward younger families with interactive rides and a splash-worthy water park.
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Just an hour away, this NASA-run experience includes rocket exhibits, astronaut encounters, and the Space Shuttle Atlantis.
🎫 Want help with tickets and planning? Contact Us here to get started!
🐊 Other Paid Attractions
- Gatorland: Zipline over alligators and see the famous Gator Jumparoo Show.
- ICON Park: Ride the 400-ft tall observation wheel and enjoy dining and attractions like Madame Tussauds.
- Fun Spot America: Affordable amusement rides, arcade games, and go-karts.
- Dezerland Park Orlando: Massive indoor park with a car museum, bowling, go-karts, and even axe throwing.
🆓 Free Things to Do in Orlando
🌿 Outdoor Escapes
- Lake Eola Park: In downtown Orlando with swan boats, a lakeside path, and fountain views.
- Mead Botanical Garden: 47 acres of shaded trails, butterfly gardens, and picnic spots.
- Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive: Drive through wetlands full of birds, gators, and scenic photo ops.
🖼️ Art & Culture (No Tickets Required)
- CityArts: Rotating art exhibits from local and international artists.
- Rollins Museum of Art: Beautiful works on a charming college campus in Winter Park.
- Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art: Home to the world’s largest collection of Tiffany glass (free admission on select days).
🛍️ Free Shopping & Entertainment Districts
- Disney Springs: Free to enter, with top-tier dining, shopping, and live entertainment.
- Universal CityWalk: Great for evening fun with restaurants, movie theaters, and clubs.
- Winter Park Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday morning with local produce, flowers, and gourmet snacks.
🚀 Don’t Skip Kennedy Space Center!
This one deserves its own spotlight. Just a short drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is packed with bucket-list experiences like:
- Touching a moon rock
- Seeing the Space Shuttle Atlantis
- Touring rocket launchpads
- Watching a real launch (check the calendar!)
Perfect for families, space fans, and anyone who loves history + science.
🛳️ Planning a Cruise Too?
Orlando is the ultimate pre- or post-cruise destination—and iCruiseApp helps you plan it all:
- Explore Destinations & Ships
- Compare Cruise Lines, Ports & Ships
- CruisVisor™ Recommender – Find your ideal sailing
- Traveler Reviews – Know before you go
Plus, if you’re interested in bundling a cruise with Orlando hotels, transfers, or park tickets, Contact Us and we’ll build your perfect package.