15 Most Unusual Things To Do in Orlando

Orlando is known for its theme parks and sunny weather, but it offers much more than the usual popular tourist attractions. The city of Orlando, Florida, also offers plenty of unique, unusual, and unforgettable experiences, whether you're on a budget or ready to splurge. 

And if you're looking for some things to do with your friends or roommates in Orlando, what better way to bond than by diving into these unconventional activities together? Here are the 15 best unusual things to do in Orlando.

Unusual Orlando Activities

1. Lake Eola Park's Swan Boats

In the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park offers an affordable escape. Rent a swan-shaped paddle boat and enjoy the downtown skyline from a different perspective. It's an affordable way to enjoy the outdoors with your friends. You could even take a picnic and make a day of it!

2. The Great Escape Room

Challenge your mind and teamwork skills at The Great Escape Room. Solving puzzles and cracking codes is a fun and budget-friendly way to spend an afternoon with friends or roommates. And with various themes, from The President's Bunker to Houdini's Final Contact, you can choose the one that's right for you.

3. Leu Gardens Movie Night

Harry P. Leu Gardens hosts movie nights in their beautiful garden setting. Bring a blanket and snacks, and enjoy a classic film under the stars. It's a perfect, low-cost evening out you can do alone or with friends.

4. Jack Kerouac House

Calling all writers and literature enthusiasts! Discover the house where Jack Kerouac lived while writing “Dharma Bums.” This is a hidden gem for book lovers and a testament to Orlando's diverse cultural scene. It even offers a residency for writers. Make sure to check out their website for more information.

5. Orlando Cat Café

Got $10 to spare? Combine your love for coffee and cats at the Orlando Cat Café. It's a unique experience that lets you enjoy tasty treats while playing with adorable cats. Like all cat cafes, this one is super popular, so they advise making a reservation beforehand to avoid disappointment.

6. Skeletons: Museum of Osteology

Science enthusiasts will love this one unusual thing to do in Orlando. This quirky museum showcases over 500 skeletons of various animals. It's both educational and a bit eerie, offering a unique perspective on the animal kingdom. Adult tickets are $13 per person, but it's worth the small price you pay.

7. The Wheel at ICON Park 

Ride on The Wheel at ICON Park to discover breathtaking views of Orlando. This attraction is stunning at night and a great way to see the city from above. The wheel takes around 20 minutes, but with all the different shops, other attractions, and restaurants on-site, you can make a whole day of it.

8. Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is not just for kids. It offers fascinating exhibits on science and technology. If you're looking for a fun, interactive way to spend the day, we recommend trying this one.

9. Quantum Leap Winery

Quantum Leap Winery offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts looking to try something local and eco-friendly. This is also Orlando's first and only sustainable winery. It's a great activity to do with friends and family.

10. Gatorland

Gatorland is the best way to experience Florida's wildlife up close. It's a bit of a splurge at $34.99 for a day pass, but this unusual thing to do in Orlando will offer an unforgettable experience. Beware – with alligator feeding and gator shows; this activity might not be for the faint of heart.

11. Orlando Balloon Rides

For those willing to spend a bit more, a hot air balloon ride over Orlando is a magical and unforgettable experience. It's a fantastic way to see the city and is perfect for special occasions, from birthdays to dates.

12. Exotic Car Drive Experience

Are you a petrolhead? Fulfill your need for speed with an exotic car driving experience. Drive a Ferrari or Lamborghini on Orlando's race tracks and experience an adrenaline-pumping day.

13. Chef's Table at the Edgewater

If you're looking for a high-end, gourmet experience, we recommend booking the Chef's Table at the Edgewater. This culinary journey offers a multi-course meal with expert wine pairings. It's worth the splurge, in our humble opinion.

14. Bioluminescent Kayaking

For a truly unique experience, go kayaking in waters that glow with bioluminescence. It's an otherworldly adventure best enjoyed on a warm summer night. (We wouldn't say no to the sunset package, either!) They recommend booking early to avoid disappointment, as spots tend to go quickly.

15. Private Helicopter Tour

Lastly, a private helicopter tour over Orlando is an extravagant but unforgettable way to see the city. It may be expensive, but It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience perfect for celebrating special moments. So if you're looking for something you'll remember forever, this is certainly the activity for you.

Wrapping Up

Orlando is a beautiful city full of surprises, offering so much more than its famous theme parks. Whether you're on a tight budget or willing to indulge in a lavish experience, Orlando has enough unusual things to do to suit everyone's tastes.

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This story is provided in partnership with SpareRoom.