“Orlando is boring.”

I laugh when I see that, because I’ve traveled to cities roughly the size of Orlando and realized that after about four days, there isn’t much else to do. I think of all of the options we have here and wonder how people could find it boring. Is it cheap? No. But there are a variety of things to do when you decide to stop loafing on the couch after days of enjoying your mortgage and working air conditioning. Even taking theme parks out of the equation (which I do because I’m not a huge theme park person), there are still a wide variety of options, whether it's a spontaneous outing or a planned event.

Below is a list of places ranging from select eateries, parks, community gatherings, shops, and museums. If you are looking for places to start exploring in Orlando, use this as a beginner's guide.

Visit the Orlando Art Museum

We may not have the largest art museum, but the OMA still gets cool exhibits if you keep up with their rotating schedule. The Florida Prize Exhibit is my favorite of the entire year, and it’s currently on display now through August 24th, 2005. Free access days at the museum for the rest of 2025 are as follows:
June 19th - July 17 - August 21 - September 18 - October 16 - December 18 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Visit the iconic Big Orange

Over in Umatilla, you can visit the Big Orange at Sunsational Farms. This iconic Big Orange is a fun photo opportunity, but it also features a farm stand where you can purchase local goods and treats. Other than your gas getting here, there is no cost to visit. 40541 Roger Giles Rd, Umatilla, FL 32784

Stroll the Maitland Art & History Museum

This is an excellent museum in Maitland that has different areas to explore. The art museum and its grounds are beautiful, and then there is the history museum, which is also home to the Telephone Museum. The cost is $6 for adults. It’s also a lovely place for photographers to enjoy. 231 W Packwood Ave, Maitland, FL 32751

Sketch and Create with other Artists

The Sketchbook Club is the perfect place for art enthusiasts at any level to find community and gather with other locals at rotating venues around Orlando. Creator and local artist Jennyfer Marie created this fun club where creatives can meet in a fun and relaxing environment. These events occur at least once a month, and each meet-up features a fun theme to inspire anyone who needs a boost. Bring your sketchbook and favorite supplies to work with, and some items are supplied by the host.

Enjoy Book Events put on by the New Romantics

Any bookworm in Orlando needs to be checking the events calendar from Jane Rodriguez and her crew at the New Romantics. The shop hosts regular events at the Audubon Park shop, including author chats and signings, and even craft nights. Outside of their space, they also host regular market/bookfair called “For the Dreamers” where you can meet local makers and authors in a wonderfully friendly and curated space. 3018 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803

Track down all the Sticker/Art Machines around Orlando

This one may seem a little silly, but it allows you to visit multiple shops in the area while supporting a local artist for a very small price tag! Multiple shops and cafes have local makers stickers and art print machines. Collect one from each! Find the locations here.

Explore the Orlando Wetlands

Out East in Christmas, there is a huge man-made wetland with walking trails and raised boardwalks, along with a visitor center. It’s free and beautiful, and you are sure to spot wildlife. The park is expansive, and you likely won’t see it all in one visit, but it’s beautiful and FREE. 25155 Wheeler Rd, Christmas, FL 32709

Visit an Indian-inspired coffee shop by day/cocktail lounge by night

East Orlando gained a gorgeous new addition with the recent opening of Luminescent. The coffee and tea-based drinks are amazing, and the space, while trendy, is quite comfortable. 12286 E Colonial Dr #105, Orlando, FL 32826

Shop Orlando’s only Fresh Flower Market

While Orlando doesn’t have the beautiful flower markets some cities have directly in the heart of their downtowns, we have a small indoor Flower Market where anyone is welcome to purchase.

Bake Something and Share it with a Group of Locals

From the same mastermind behind the Sketchbook Club is a club where you can eat your creations. The Bake Club is a new addition to Jennyfer Marie’s roster of bringing Orlandoans together, this time with a mix of sweet and savory goods. For a nominal fee (usually $5), you can gather at a predetermined space in Orlando where you get to bring something you’ve baked and taste all the other goods from budding bakers. Follow them on Instagram as tickets sell out fast!

Visit Gatcha USA and try your Hand at Claw Games

If you can’t afford a summer trip to Japan, you can play at these large Gatcha experiences inside the Florida Mall. There is also a similar concept in the Waterford Lakes Shopping Center called Mirai. Every time I’ve been an employee, they have offered me one of the prizes I sunk my money into if I didn’t get it, so you shouldn’t leave empty-handed.

Visit the Only Restaurant in Orlando with a Green Michelin Star

Kaya is the only restaurant in Orlando to hold the prestigious accolade of a Green Michelin Star, which recognizes restaurants at the forefront of the industry in terms of their sustainable practices. While there is a pricier tasting, you can order off their à la carte menu at the bar, or casually enjoy their outdoor bayani bar. 618 N Thornton Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Explore Orlando’s Chinatown

It’s suddenly getting quite popular on social media, but the Westside Crossings strip mall, affectionately referred to as our “Chinatown” has been here for quite a long time. Some of the best Asian restaurants in Orlando are nestled in this shopping plaza. 5030 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808

Go Public Art Hunting in Lake Nona

The Lake Nona Town Center is home to several public art pieces and buildings designed by artists. The DNA Garage, Wave Garage, Code Wall, and Sculpture Garden are just some examples.

Cool down with amazing Shaved Iced

Koko Kakigori has gained recognition for its stunning edible art. Slowly frozen alkaline ice is layered and sculpted by the chef using seasonal fruits, natural ingredients, and homemade sauces and toppings from scratch to flavor the delicate ice. 620 N Thornton Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Spend the afternoon in a pinball-only Arcade

The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo is small, but packed with pinball machines. There’s a bar and it’s attached to the local bowling alley. 376 E Broadway St, Oviedo, FL 32765

Visit a thematic Tiki Bar

Take a mini vacation at Permanent Vacation in Maitland. This immersive and well-themed Tiki Bar is located inside another bar. The drinks are strong, and the vibe will make you forget you are still home in Orlando for a few hours. 106 Lake Ave, Maitland, FL 32751

Hang out in a 90s-themed video Geek Boutique

Comic Controllers in Clermont is part geek boutique with custom controllers for gamers, a pop-culture themed soda counter, and a space to play video games in the back of the shop. 628 8th St, Clermont, FL 34711

Visit a Retro Sandwich Shop that’s been here since 1972

Art’s off OBT has been an Orlando staple for over fifty years, but no one talks about it. Home to deli sandwiches and known for their Philly Cheesesteak, this spot is stuck in time with a warm orange glow and cozy booths straight from the 70s. 1018 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32805

Explore a K-Pop Shop

K-Poppin USA is a large shop offering all sorts of goodies for those who love anything K-Pop, Anime, Sanrio, and more. 1778 Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32809

Visit Orlando’s only Filipino Ice Cream Shop

There are many spots around Orlando to cool down with a frozen treat, but Sampaguita is the only Filipino ice cream parlor with unique flavors and a classic Halo Halo. 1233 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803

Watch a FREE Improv Show at the Orange County Library

On the second Saturday of every month, on the second floor of the library, you can enjoy a FREE improv show inside the Melrose Center. The members of the show rotate, but they are all part of the local improv community. Local improv teacher and Player Marko Torres hosts the show. The show lasts an hour and is suitable for all ages. 101 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801

Visit a 90s Basement Themed Shop

Two artists decide to open a shop reminiscent of a Northern Basement from the 1990s. The shop is full of whimy and nostalgic gift items, but you can also hang, watch a movie and play video games for a bit. 647 E Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32803

Walk the Springs Hammock Preserve Trail

This public trail in Seminole County is heavily shaded and has easy terrain for non-hikers like me. The 3-mile loop has a network of trails through a swampland and the jewel on your journey is the pretty watering hole you’ll come across. Leashed dogs are welcome. 2985 Osprey Trail, Longwood, FL

Treat yourself to Brunch in a beautiful restaurant

Brunch lovers should have The Monroe on their radar. It’s not a loud boozy brunch (which is part of the reason why I love it). Just good food in a beautiful setting. 448 N Terry Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Play Glow-in-the-Dark putt-putt golf at Putting Edge

Putt-Putt indoors is always a good idea in Florida, but a psychedelic course that completely glows in the dark is something everyone should do at least once. It doesn’t hurt that popular music from the 90s and 2000s blasts you through the course, allowing for dance breaks while you wait for the teams to play through. 5250 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

Visit a Monday Night Farmers Market

Every Monday night, the Stardust parking lot hosts the Monday night Audubon Community Market. Local purveyors come together in a relaxed setting, accompanied by food vendors and live music. 1842 Winter Park Rd, Orlando, FL 32803

Take a Drive while looking for Alligators

The wildlife drive in Apopka is a one-way 11-mile drive that largely hugs the perimeter of Lake Apopka. The drive is home to many types of animals, but is widely known for bird watching, and 369 different bird species have been recorded on the property. Whether you go for sightings, to get some nature photography, or just to take a digital detox and enjoy the outdoors, this this a free and easy way to enjoy the afternoon.

Explore and Shop at Florida Cactus

This cactus farm is serene and all sorts of magical. Go shop for your next plant babies and take in the beauty found in each greenhouse. They are only open during the week, so no exploring on the weekends. 2542 Peterson Rd, Apopka, FL 32703

Support your local Agua Fresca Stand

It’s the perfect time of year to grab a cold roadside drink while supporting hard-working people. I wish there were an Agua Fresca database with addresses and operating hours, but there isn’t one. The nearest one to me is at the corner of Forest City Road and Kennedy in Orlando. If you see one, stop!

Attend a Private Dinner Party

Having trouble meeting people and making friends in Orlando? Follow @ourhomesc on Instagram and stay up to date on the next dinner party at the host’s house, or a larger private party somewhere in Orlando. I attended a larger party that was paid and included several courses of amazing food, wine, desserts, and even group karaoke! The smaller parties at the host’s home are FREE.

Visit the Highest-Rated Farmers Market in Florida

The Winter Garden Farmers Market wins awards every year for being the best Farmers Market in our state. Their produce selection is vast (curated by a local Farmer), and there are over 100 local vendors with a wide variety of goods every Saturday from 8 AM - 1 PM. They usually have free kids' craft activities scheduled at least once a month, and it’s dog-friendly. 104 S. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden 34787

Visit Old Town

Yes, it’s a tourist trap, but it’s colorful, quirky, and fun. It’s ok to embrace the touristy things in Orlando once in a while. 5770 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy

Book a Private Cocktail Class for your Friend Group

The Courtesy Bar in Winter Park offers private cocktail (with mocktail substitutes if needed) classes on Saturdays. It’s a great group activity if you are looking for something unique to do. The class lasts about two hours. 1288 N Orange Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Visit the Orlando Library Downtown

Remember the library? The downtown location hosts a variety of events and classes, thanks in part to the Melrose Center. The resources there are quite rich for Orlando residents who sign up and take the orientation. Or you can just enjoy the building and check out some books. Get your library card!

Play at Arcade Monsters

One of Central Florida’s largest arcades is found in Oviedo (and a few other locations). Depending on the location you visit, All Day Play ranges from $23 - $25, and you can choose from a wide variety of consoles, VR games, pinball, and more. Hit up the snack bar, take pics, and play inside all day.

Play at Player One Arcade

This arcade is packed with retro games, and screens over the bar allow you to play newer console games. A $6 coverage charge (for Florida residents) gets you unlimited play, but you must also purchase a drink from the bar. After 6pm it’s 21 and up. Unlike Arcade Monsters this spot is smaller, and if you go earlier its usually pretty empty. 8562 Palm Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32836

Visit a Massive Antique Center in Mt. Dora

Rennigers is a large indoor and outdoor market located in Mt. Dora. It is open Fridays through Sundays. Keep an eye out for its larger events, including its Vintage Antiques & Collectors Extravaganza. 20651 US-441, Mt Dora, FL 32757

Visit the Isla de Frappe Truck

This food truck makes some of the most decadent drinks you’ll find in town. You might be overwhelmed by the menu, which is filled with options based on different candies, but I highly recommend a chocolate base. It’s an experience worth trying out at least once, and it will probably hook you. 7401 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL

Visit a Chic Wine Bar

Sparrow Wine Bar in downtown Orlando is a gorgeous space offering much more than wine. Small plates, cocktails, and a few mocktails all dazzle under the disco ball at night in this intimate and comfy spot for a nightcap. 807 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Eat at the Food Court inside Lotte Market

Exploring this Korean market is a lot of fun. It’s a great way to add some new types of food to your at-home repertoire. If cooking isn’t on your mind, it’s worth visiting for the food court, which is filled with a great variety of different Asian fare. 3191 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL

Visit the City Arts Factory

This gallery space hosts several events and is a part of 3rd Thursdays Gallery Hop downtown. 39 S Magnolia Ave Orlando, FL

Visit the Morse Museum

The world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany is here in Orlando, and admission is only $6 (Free for children younger than 12 Free Fridays from 4 p.m.–8 p.m., November through April) Even if it’s not your favorite style of art, it’s still beautiful and could inspire your creative juices to start flowing. Other exhibits rotate in this museum. 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Visit the Modernism Museum in Mt. Dora

This small but mighty museum in downtown Mt. Dora currently has a very cool exhibition. You can view the ultimate David Bowie Memphis Collection, which includes items from his personal estate. 145 E. 4TH Ave., Mt. Dora

Shop at one of Orlando’s oldest Vintage boutiques

Not only does Orlando Vintage have a massive collection of goods to sort through, but you can also see where styles that have been used in movies and television have come from locally! Looking to rent a costume? You can do that too! 1500 Formosa Ave, Winter Park, FL

Vintage hunt at Orange Tree Antique

Peacefully stroll row after row of booths that house clothing, art, toys, home goods, and you just might find a piece of your childhood or something perfect for the present. 853 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Visit Orlando’s Smallest Boutique Yay! Tiny Shop

At only about 200 sq. ft. Yay Tiny Shop is filled it to the brim with goods, that as her Instagram bio suggests, are #Thingsthatmakeyousayyay. From pins, books, jewelry, home goods, travel accessories, party goods, art prints and notebooks, Stacy’s shop has an impressive variety of options nestled nicely together in a very cozy setting. 1211 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32804

Take a Boat Tour of Winter Park Lakes

The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is a great adventure for visitors, but many locals have never done it! It lasts about 45 minutes, which can be a bit brutal in the summer, as there is no covering on the boats, but you get to see Winter Park houses from the water and go in the canals which is fun. Go during moderate weather if you can. 312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789

Hike Green Springs

Green Springs has a nature trail that leads into a longer bike trail, but it’s mostly known for being a popular photoshoot spot. People perch above the large, fresh springs pond, but there are more beautiful areas if you enjoy the trail. Other activities include visiting Florida’s few green sulfur springs, trails, scenic overlooks, picnic areas. Admission is FREE.

Take yourself on an Indie Bookstore Crawl

Orlando and the neighboring cities are filled with independent book stores to visit.

50 Things to Do in Orlando When You're Bored