By John Nassivera
Are you wondering what adventures lie beyond the world-famous theme parks of Orlando?
Around every corner of O-Town awaits a unique experience that creates memories to share with friends and family. Special destinations offer new thrills, leaving you curious about what else this town has to offer.
If you decide to come down to Orlando during the cooler months of the year, there is no shortage of options for entertainment. Whether you’re looking for new ways to have fun outdoors or seek indoor excitement for the whole family, Orlando has you covered.
Take a break from Orlando’s theme parks and explore these hidden gem attractions this winter.
Key Takeaways
Harry P. Leu Gardens
Winter vacations in Orlando offer the opportunity to become in tune with nature at Harry P. Leu Gardens. This botanical haven treats you with over 50 acres of gardens to explore while you enjoy fresh air and sunshine that remind you of warmer seasons.
Gaze as beautiful butterflies float from shrubs and trees to annuals and perennials at the Butterfly Garden. Travel through the lush rainforest of the Tropical Garden. Learn about the over 200 varieties and 1,700 individual plantings of the Camellia Collection, many of which were planted by Harry P. Leu himself.
A tranquil walk along Camphor Tree Allee is just the break you need from the adrenaline rushes of Orlando. The view of the tropical stream garden featuring cycads, gingers, and banana plants is right out of a fantasy world.
Special events such as Holidays at Leu Gardens and Dazzling Nights in January put a festive and colorful touch on your garden explorations. End your botanical journey with a picnic under the sun surrounded by gorgeous greenery.
Andretti Indoor Karting and Games
Does anyone in your family or friend group have a birthday coming up, or are you just looking for indoor entertainment? If so, Andretti Indoor Karting and Games is the place to be for an escape from the occasional Orlando winter chill.
An arcade oasis awaits fans of retro and new games, and you can prepare for battle at the two-story, 4,000-square-foot laser tag arena. Jump into another world through the Andretti 7D Xperience, a 3D interactive ride that actually feels like you’re battling enemies with lasers in an earth-rumbling adventure.
Take Andretti’s high-speed electric Superkarts for a spin with a go-kart race along a multi-level track. Put your bowling skills to the test at the interactive Spark Bowling lanes, as every strike attempt kicks up a notch along lanes with riveting lights, visuals, and sound effects.
An evening of arcade tournaments and go-kart races calls for a hearty meal at Andretti Grill, especially for birthdays and other special occasions. Adults visiting with friends and relatives can toast to the day’s entertainment with craft beers and specialty cocktails at SkyBar.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Aspiring astronauts, STEM students, and space afficionados can mark a trip to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex at the top of their to-do lists while in O-Town.
Based on more than 15,000 5-star reviews, TripAdvisor ranked the Kennedy Space Center the top travel experience in the United States.
From tours of past missions to exhibits about current and future missions, education has never been so fun. Bask in the glory of the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis spacecraft and the humungous Saturn V rocket from the Apollo missions. The Rocket Garden is a sea of rockets from Gemini, Mercury, Apollo, and other early NASA programs just waiting to be explored.
Historic launch sites await your presence along the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour. Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex showcases today’s progress in space missions and explains how NASA plans to make future discoveries.
Take a moment to meet veteran NASA astronauts and learn about their experiences off-planet. When you need a rest from the tours, kick back in the comfortable chairs of the IMAX Theater and watch a space-themed flick on the big screen.
The Milk District
A search for Orlando’s hidden gem attractions allows you to experience more of the local scene, such as the Milk District. While the day is saved for outdoor games and journeys through nature, this district is all about the nightlife.
Art lovers can check out dozens of street art installations and murals throughout the area before shopping for collectibles and pop-culture items at The Nook on Robinson. Groove to the beats of concerts and other live shows in a historical theater at The Plaza Live.
Whether you’re in the mood for a cup of coffee or a flavorful cocktail, The Milkhouse has drinks that hit the spot. Enjoy more cocktails and competitive fun during a game of bowling with the gang at Primrose Lanes.
A chance to try local culinary delights lies in every direction, from the Southern comfort food of Se7en Bites to the street foods of A La Cart. Follow up a bite at Beefy King or Stasio’s Italian Deli and Market with a sweet snack at Gideon’s Bakehouse in the East End Market.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Why not take advantage of Orlando’s warm winter with a thrilling dip in its alluring waters? That’s where an afternoon at Wekiwa Springs State Park with the gang hits just right.
Cannonball into the crystal-clear spring before snorkeling through the deep ends to see what aquatic life lies beneath. Take your group along the Wekiwa River and Rock Springs Run for a friendly kayaking or canoe race surrounded by breathtaking views of nature.
The park features 25 miles of trails in case you have time for hiking, biking, or even horseback riding. Such a journey offers the chance to spot stunning wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, bobcats, and the park’s vast bird population.
The playgrounds, volleyball court, and horseshoe pin are perfect for family fun before an afternoon picnic or evening BBQ. Spend the night at the park’s campsite gazing at shining stars across a clear sky by the campfire.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Turn your next dinner in Orlando into a fantastic trip into the past at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. Whether you want to celebrate someone’s birthday or are looking for new ways to enjoy dinner with a show, this is the place to be.
Before the show begins, tour the halls of the medieval-style castle for a look at the themed décor and an assembly of weaponry used by Queen Maria Isabella’s knights. The pre-show knighting ceremony gives you the chance to meet the show’s warriors along with their highly trained horses and falcons.
Join her majesty and her royal court in the castle-like arena for a spectacle of live-action sword fights, jousting, and falconry. The four-course meal featuring roasted chicken, herb-basting potatoes, and vanilla ice cream is fit for kings and queens.
Cheer on the knight assigned to your seat color as they show off their skills against their rivals. After the show, pick up some souvenirs at the gift shop to remember your medieval extravaganza as you return to present day.
Lake Eola Park
The city life of Orlando balances out its energetic vibe with moments of serenity at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle on a sunny winter day, this park is your oasis.
Take a stroll along the paved loop around the lake and enjoy a spectacular view of the crystal-clear lake and Orlando’s towering buildings. Hop aboard the swan-shaped pedal boats with friends and family for a trip around the large fountain in the middle of the lake.
You can catch a musical performance at the Walt Disney Amphitheater during your walk, or save some time for observing the variety of birds that reside at the lake. Stop by on Sundays and shop for local souvenirs at the Orlando Farmers Market.
Picnic tables await throughout the park as you rest with your group for a relaxing lunch while taking in amazing views of the area. If you stop by after the sun sets, take a moment to watch the sky dazzle with colors from the fountain’s stunning light show.
iFly Orlando
The adrenaline rush of freefall skydiving becomes an indoor thrill at iFly Orlando. No parachute required!
Suit up and step into a vertical wind tunnel that shoots up a strong cushion of air for two 60-second flights. Professional instructors teach you beforehand how to float, turn, and control your movements for a proper and fun simulation.
Bring family and friends along for the freefall with packages that accommodate up to five people per flight. If you’ve never tried skydiving before, this experience may motivate you to see how actually jumping out of a plane may compare.
iFly Orlando also offers heart-pound excitement for anyone looking to add some fun to a special occasion. Whether it’s for a birthday party, family reunion, or even a corporate event, take the gang along for a ride they will never forget.
Discover New Adventures in Orlando
As exciting as Orlando’s theme parks can be, there’s something about the hidden gem attractions that lights the spark for one-of-a-kind experiences.
At Rosen Centre, lush accommodations paired with stellar guest services create a hidden gem of a hotel in the heart of the tourist district.
Book your next winter adventure with Rosen Centre Orlando today for new ways to experience Orlando’s nonstop fun while also enjoying the best in hospitality.
