Are you wondering what are some of the best things to do in Orlando for adults?
You may not know it, but the Orlando area has some pretty amazing activities to discover for grown-ups.
I thought I’d challenge you to get out of your comfort zone yet again and discover unique things to do in Orlando besides Disney World and Universal Orlando.
I have put together some of the cool local spots, high thrilling adventures, and exciting experiences that can be done solo or with friends!
So, let’s go over everything you need to know about the many incredible and fun things to do in Orlando for adults that will have you feeling young at heart loving The City Beautiful.
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Entertainment and Nightlife Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
Let’s start with the nightlife in Orlando!
1. Endless Entertainment at Orlando Icon Park
If you want to take a break from the theme parks, ICON Park is the place to be with 20 acres of non-stop fun with more than 50 cool attractions.
Ride The Wheel, 400 feet into the air or explore Orlando’s only 360-degree walkthrough ocean tunnel at SeaLife Orlando Aquarium.
Orlando ICON Park is one of Orlando’s best entertainment complexes filled with museums, rides, shopping, and yummy dining.
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2. Turn Back Time at Old Town Kissimmee
It’s good old-fashioned fun at Old Town Kissimmee filled with retro Florida appeal.
From the custom-made Ferris wheel from Italy taking you 85 feet up in the air, the classic carousel making you feel like a kid again to the Wednesday Night Themed Car Show, this vintage feel town always has something going on.
3. Have a Blast at Kennedy Space Center
It’s a galaxy of an adventure over on the beautiful coast of Florida at Kennedy Space Center.
To help you on your mission space fans will want to download the KSC App, it will help you get familiar with the layout of the Visitor Complex and plan your visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Most importantly it will keep you updated on rocket launches and fill you in on the shows and attractions.
4. Step Into a World of Oddities at Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Discover the mind-blowing displays of the rare and unusual and step into a world of illusions at Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
It’s a mind-bending day of over 35,000 artifacts and curiosities! This is one of the best things to do in Orlando on a rainy day, especially with the free parking.
So, you can take your time and enjoy the endless photo-ops and fun interactive experiences.
5. Be a Racecar Driver at K1 Speed on International Drive
Searching for a bit of a rush of excitement other than the coasters?
Then get your adrenaline fix and hit the track living out your racecar driver fantasy over at International Drive at K1 Speed.
Reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour you can enjoy some fast and friendly competition.
6. Cozy Up at Orlando ICEBAR
Cozy up and chill with your partner, dance the night away with friends, or warm up in the freezing temps at the Orlando ICEBAR with a Polar Mojito Fire Cocktail.
As the number one ice bar in the entire world, this is one of the coolest things to do in Orlando for adults.
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7. Go Pub Hopping in Downtown Orlando
Gather up your besties and get crawlin’! Enjoy the night out with friends and pub hop in downtown Orlando.
Not sure which pumping clubs or hip bars to hop to then check out Orlando Pub Crawl. They have special events throughout the year and monthly crawls including themed ones for a splash of something different.
8. Hangout in Downtown Winter Park
The historic city of Winter Park is a charming place to go and spend some time, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings at one of their incredible restaurants or out for drinks.
I recommend stopping in at The Wine Room on Park Avenue where you can load up your wine-tasting card that works similar to a debit card and sip on wines from all over the world.
9. Go Off the Beaten Path at Vault 5421
If you are looking for seasonal cocktails, electric vibes, and off the beaten path then look no further than Vault 5421.
With its own secret dining location hidden behind an unassuming comic book store, this post-apocalyptic retro-gaming lounge is serving up adult elixirs and concoctions for an epic night out in Orlando over on International Drive.
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Adventures and Thrilling Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
Now it’s time to give you some suggestions if you’re more into the thrilling side of Orlando.
10. Think Outside the Box at The Escape Game Orlando
Solving your way through one of the escape rooms at The Escape Game Orlando is nerve-racking and an absolute sensory overload of an amazing time.
Solving a series of puzzles in order to complete the mission of the game is intense but super entertaining.
It is one of the best things to do in Orlando for adults because whether it is date night or a night out with friends or family, everyone has fun.
11. Soar Through the Treetops at Orlando Trek Adventure Park
Covering 15 acres set in the heart of nature Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park is a thrilling aerial adventure.
Featuring 97 different mazes of obstacles and aerial games, including a giant 425’ zip line it’s the perfect mix whether you are an adventure junkie or looking for something new to try.
12. Take a Flight in a Hot Air Balloon at Orlando Balloon Rides
Get a bird’s eye view over Disney and see how big and magical it truly is along with many other incredible Orlando attractions.
Taking flight at sunrise 7 days a week Orlando Balloon Rides not only lets you have a “hands-on” experience it is also an unforgettable way to see “The City Beautiful” from a whole new perspective for 1 – 1.5 hours.
13. Fly High on the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line at Gatorland
If you want to elevate your trip to Orlando then this is the heart-pounding adventure you may be looking for.
Flying high on a 1,200-foot-long adventure over seven stories tall The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line is not for the faint of heart.
Open daily rain or shine, Gatorland has you flying over alligators and crocodiles at speeds near 30 miles per hour.
So, strap yourself in and get ready for a gator-ific time!
Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!
14. Dive out of Your Comfort Zone at Jump Florida Sky Diving
The Jump Florida Sky Diving attraction will have you diving out of your comfort zone at full speed.
But there is no need to fear you don’t have to do this all on your own, they offer Tandem Skydiving for first-time jumpers with Qualified USPA-licensed staff.
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15. Go on a High-Thrill Watery Adventure at Buena Vista Watersports
Just 5 to 10 minutes away from your favorite Orlando attractions you can soak yourself in a wet and wild adventure with Buena Vista Watersports.
It’s a water playground for adults on the secluded natural spring-fed lake set against the backdrop of the tropical setting.
Choose from jet skis, kayak, and paddle-board rentals, and even boat charters and pontoon boat rentals if you aren’t looking to get your adrenaline pumping.
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Parks and Other Outdoorsy Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
This next section is for all of my outdoorsy type of adults!
16. Experience Nature’s Phenomenon at BK Adventure
See Florida’s version of the Avatar film in the majestic Bioluminescent Bay with BK Adventure kayaking through the magical waters.
This phenomenon has the water glowing as you touch it! It looks out of this world leaving you with an indescribable memory for a lifetime.
17. Go on an Airboat Tour at Marsh Landing
Marsh Landing Adventures will have you checking out the real side of Florida zipping through the Everglades.
Spotting Florida alligators and so much of the wildlife that hides within this is one ride on the wild side.
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18. Swim with the Manatees at Crystal River, FL
Want a chance to see the real-life “mermaids” or at least our version of it here in Florida?
Crystal River, FL is a one-of-a-kind destination where you can spend the day with the manatees, swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking with these gentle giants.
Try and go earlier in the day when they are most active for a better chance to spend some time with them up close.
19. Step Into a Botanical Oasis at Harry P. Leu Gardens
Revel in the 50 acres of flowers, exotic trees, and charming gardens at Harry P. Leu Gardens.
This botanical oasis will have you amazed at almost 30 different beautiful displays and gorgeous gardens. Everything is clearly labeled to help identify all the gorgeous exhibits.
You will want to plan for 1 to 2 hours to fully enjoy these stunning Orlando gardens and beautiful areas.
20. Embrace Your Inner Explorer at Tibet Butler Preserve
Discover this hidden Orlando gem jam-packed with Florida wildlife 5 minutes from Disney at the Tibet-Butler Preserve.
It is the perfect date for couples to enjoy together, with your besties or out solo traveling in Orlando and embracing your inner explorer.
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Museums That Are Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
It’s now time for me to take you through the wonderful cultural museums of Central Florida.
21. Discover the Culture of the African Continent at the Bronze Kingdom
Shhh…I am going to let you in on one of Orlando’s best-kept secrets.
Located in the Fashion Square Mall lies a great destination for the culturally curious.
Here you will find the Bronze Kingdom, which allows you to discover an array of African bronze, beaded, and wood sculptures from all over the continent of Africa with over 2,000 unique art pieces.
22. Channel Your Inner Scientist at Orlando Science Center
The Orlando Science Center is one of the best museums here in the state of Florida with exhibits from The Science of Guinness World Records, and Kinetic Zone to A STEAM Gallery and Tiny Green Home.
From a stadium-seated Digital Adventure Theater to the domed Giant-Screen Theater, it is one of the best ways to cool off inside from the Florida heat and have some fun at the same time.
23. Time Travel At Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Walk through a recreation of the famous ship at the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition with costumed historians, the iceberg, the Grand Staircase, and 300 artifacts from the sunken ship.
Stepping back in time to one of history’s most iconic events is fascinating especially to see full-scale room recreations plus you learn so many interesting and incredible facts about this vessel.
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24. Discover the World of Creativity at the Orlando Museum of Art
If you want to learn more about the fascinating Florida art culture, the Orlando Museum of Art is the perfect destination.
Closed on Mondays and holidays they are open Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm. OMA’s compelling art and exhibits will open your mind up to a world of creativity.
25. Indulge in a Sweet Escape at The Chocolate Museum and Cafe
Got a sweet tooth?
Then take a walk through the history of chocolate complete with a decadent tasting of the different types of chocolate from around the world including their rainforest experience at The Chocolate Museum and Cafe.
Sample the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate souffle, be amazed by 25 jaw-dropping chocolate sculptures carved out of solid blocks of chocolate, or enjoy some much-needed adult time during their wine happy hours.
26. Go Back in Time at Wells’ Built Museum of African American History & Culture.
Go back in time to the historic Wells’ Built Hotel that lodged African Americans during segregation by visiting the Wells’ Built Museum of African American History & Culture.
Here you will learn about Orlando’s black culture.
Shows and Concerts That Are Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
This next section is for all of my artsy folks out there!
27. Feel the Spirit of Orlando at an Orlando Magic Game
Be sure to catch an Orlando Magic Game downtown and feel the electric spirit of Orlando.
Show up early for Fan Fest for music, dancers, and drummers, and paint your face up in pride. Then cheer on the loved Orlando Magic NBA hometown team inside the Kia Center.
28. Enjoy an Evening at the Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Give your feet a rest from all the theme park walking and spend an evening taking in a concert, play, or ballet at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in their plush seating.
29. Hangout at the Funny Bone Comedy Club in Orlando
Laugh the night away at Funny Bone Comedy Club in Orlando, it’s a barrel of fun to get out, relax, and release the stress of the week.
Open Mic night is a fun and free night out for adults in Orlando where you don’t need a ticket to attend and they always have a stellar lineup of rising stars and well-known comedians.
Read Next: Day Trips from Orlando: 34 Incredible Places to Visit Less than 3 Hours Away!
30. Go on a Swashbuckling Expedition at the Pirate’s Dinner Adventure
Serving up meals fit for a captain…quite literally with their yummy Captain’s Chicken meal, the the Pirate’s Dinner Adventure marks the spot for those with a hearty love for all things pirates.
This interactive dinner show will satisfy the belly of any landlubber and is a swashbuckling good time for those who want to embrace their inner pirate.
31. Cheer on Your Favorite Knights at Medieval Times
Enter the world of Kings and Knights cheering on your favorite knights in the castle-like setting of horses and knights at Medieval Times.
Don your crown and eat with your hands on a 4-course feast for an unforgettable theatrical experience and banquet.
32. Become an Honorary Detective at the Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show
It’s a killer of an evening at the Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show.
This 45-minute improvisational comedy mystery and dinner will have you unraveling the mystery with every bite.
Are you planning a Disney vacation soon? Read the Disney World Vacation Planning Guide for your next dream trip!
Shopping Areas That Are Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
Now it’s time to chill and take a relaxing stroll through the stores in Orlando, Florida.
33. At Sunset Walk at Margaritaville Orlando
Enjoy some of the best live entertainment offered in the city here at Sunset Walk at Margaritaville Orlando.
Dive into some of their fabulous dining venues, shop til you drop and one of my personal favorites is checking out the Show Cars on Saturday Nights.
And of course, you have to finish the night off with a refreshing margarita from Kissimmee’s Margaritaville Boulevard.
34. Enjoy the Finer Things in Life at Mall at Millenia
Enjoy a luxurious shopping experience with world-class brands at the highly-rated Mall at Millenia.
This extravagant indoor shopping mall at Conroy Road boasts 140 luxurious boutiques to splurge in for those looking to indulge in high-end fashion and the finer things in life.
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35. Indulge Yourself at the Orlando Premium Outlets
Get great deals on the top name brands (Disney merchandise included) at the Orlando Premium Outlets.
Adidas, Marc Jacobs, Brunello Cucinelli, Armani, Puma, Versace! All the ultimate luxury you could desire is right here in Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets.
36. Escape into a Shoppers Paradise at The Florida Mall
Visit the most popular tourist shopping destination in Orlando, The Florida Mall filled with over 250 shopping and dining options all under one roof.
This shopper’s paradise always has a sale going on whether it be on some of the most popular brands or in one of their countless unique boutiques.
Or eat your way around the world, there are endless possibilities of culinary eateries that will have you dining on international flavors.
Recommended: When Is the Best Time to Travel to Orlando? Everything You Must Know for an Amazing Trip!
Tours and Classes That Are Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
Now we’re to the more adult side of this article and that’s drinking around Orlando!
37. Shake Things Up at The Courtesy
Learn the best way to make your favorite cocktail at The Courtesy with their weekly cocktail-making classes (they are first come first serve and they fill up fast).
They have lots of different fun and unique reoccurring and new experiences throughout the year like the oyster bar pop-up, Tequila Ocho and Bourbon cocktail class, and their Halloween and Christmas themed pop-ups.
38. Pedal Your Way through the Bars in Downtown Sandford
Get your legs ready as you pedal your way throughout the different bars in Downtown Sanford with Limo Cycle Tours.
This pedal-powered party offers group and private beer crawls as you take in the sunny sights of Sanford’s historical town.
It is definitely one of the most unique and lively ways to get out and have some fun, laughter, and adult bevies.
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39. Go on a Brewery Tour with Orlando Ale Line
Go on your own brewery tour with Orlando Ale Line hopping on and off their Orlando Ale’s Brew Loop and sipping your way through the Orlando night.
Circling 5 breweries for 6 hours this brew loop bus is pitcher-perfect time out in Orlando for adults… oh and pets too, it’s dog friendly.
40. Tour the Orange County Waterways with Windermere Scenic Boat Tour
Make your way off the beaten path and find yourself away from the hustle and bustle into the stunning views of nature.
Cruising through the Lake Butler Chain of Lakes the Windermere Scenic Boat Tour takes you on a sightseeing tour for 60-–75 minutes exploring the Orange County waterways.
See the magnificent homes of celebrities and residents, explore the beautiful scenery, nature, and wildlife, or make it an unforgettable journey and set sail at sunset.
41. Take a Free Wine Tour at Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards
They say all good things come to those who wait, so I have left one of my favorites for last.
Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards is Florida’s largest premium winery where over 1 million bottles are produced a year.
Offering free guided winery tours and tastings 7 days a week wine enthusiasts can come out and relax in the countryside and rolling hills of Clermont any day of the week.
It’s a perfect day trip in Florida or a weekend getaway in the Sunshine State.
They also have exclusive access experiences with Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards VIP Tour & Tasting, Weekends at the Winery, and their special events and festivals all year round!
My Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
As you can see, there are so many fun and unique things to do in Orlando for adults.
On your next solo theme park trip, be sure to try at least one of these adventures and let us know how it went.
Listen to Podcast Episode 66 Below on Things to Do in Orlando for Adults
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Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
So, which one of the 41 adventurous things in Orlando are you willing to try? Let me know in the comment section below!
About the Author
Sarah Jordan is a solo traveler enthusiast, professional travel writer, and proud mama to her rescue dog Coconut.
With a love for destinations across the globe, she made Epcot her first theme park and still treasures her EPCOT World Showcase passport to this day.
After finally following her inner wanderlust, she discovered the freedom and empowerment that solo travel brings.
UP NEXT: Orlando Bucket List: Creating the Ultimate Vacation Experience
(Original Article Date: July 21, 2020/Updated by Editor on August 25, 2024)