Orlando, Florida, is home to some of the best theme parks in the world, but there’s so much more to this exciting metropolis than just thrill rides and animated characters. Orlando is perfect for nature lovers thanks to its year-round warm climate and variety of scenic outdoor areas. In Orlando, you may partake in various thrilling outdoor pursuits suitable for nature lovers, adventurers, and sports fans. Here are nine exciting possibilities:
Explore Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, yet it’s only a short drive from the heart of Orlando. This park has something for everyone, from pathways for hiking and biking to springs clean enough for canoeing and kayaking. Relax in the spring’s cold waters or search for wildlife along the paths.
Wekiwa Springs has been a popular tourist destination since the middle of the 19th century, and it’s simple to understand why. Those fortunate enough to have spent their weekends exploring the spring vent and paddling canoes past the purple blossoms of pickerelweed have a special connection to Wekiwa Springs. Wekiwa Springs is Orange County’s oldest continually operating tourist destination because of its beautiful blue water.
Take an Airboat Ride in the Everglades
Experience Florida’s diverse ecology up close and personal on an airboat tour of the neighboring Everglades. Experience the splendor of this enormous marsh as you glide across the water. Alligators, turtles, and many bird species should be on the lookout. A thrilling way to see the sights of the Everglades is from the deck of a boat.
Search for alligators, fish, turtles, and wading birds as you race through the marshy lake at up to 40 miles per hour. Tickets to Sawgrass Recreation Park are available that grant entry to the park and the Alligator & Reptile Exhibit and a guided airboat excursion lasting 30 to 40 minutes. The Everglades’ unique subtropical habitat may be experienced safely, entertainingly, and educationally at Sawgrass Recreation Park, only 25 minutes from Fort Lauderdale.
Go Paddleboarding on Lake Eola
The tranquil waters of Lake Eola in downtown Orlando are ideal for a day of paddleboarding. Get out on the water and enjoy the beautiful cityscape by renting a paddleboard. Explore the lake’s serene beauty while enjoying the light wind. You may relax and get in touch with nature while still being in the heart of the exciting city by paddling on Lake Eola. Paddleboarding is an excellent way for Orlando locals and visitors alike to relax, enjoy the area’s natural beauty, and appreciate the outdoors.
Play Golf at Top-Rated Courses
Golfers of all skill levels will find something to enjoy in Orlando, thanks to the city’s abundance of excellent courses. Put your skills to the test on carefully crafted fairways and greens surrounded by verdant scenery. Playing golf in Orlando is a fantastic way to spend time in nature and hone your swing, regardless of your skill level as a golfer.
Experience the Thrill of Hot Air Ballooning
Ride a hot air balloon in Orlando to feel the most incredible rush of flying through the skies. As you soar above the treetops and take spectacular panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, embark on an incredible journey. Feel the thrill grow as the balloon softly ascends, offering a singular viewpoint of Orlando’s surroundings. Enjoy the stunning hues that the dawn or sunset cast across the horizon. A tranquil and thrilling experience, hot air ballooning lets you take breathtaking aerial photos and make lifelong memories. Get ready for the wonder of floating through the sky to astound you.
Enjoy a Balmy Day at Cocoa Beach
Visit the warm sands of Cocoa Beach for a day of rest. This beautiful beach town is only a couple of hours away from the rush and bustle of Orlando, making it the ideal travel destination. Relax in the soothing ocean wind as the warm sand caresses your feet as you wander the beach. Locate your ideal sunbathing area, and cool down with a swim in the pristine waters. Cocoa Beach provides everything you might want for a day at the beach, whether you’re a beach bum, surfer, or just looking for peace. Let the soothing breezes and warm air douse your cares while you recharge.
Visit the Universal Orlando Resort
Take in all the sights and sounds of this famous amusement park. Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and experience thrilling rides based on popular books and films while strolling around Diagon Alley and drinking butterbeer. Explore Jurassic Park, meet your children’s favorite Marvel superheroes at Super Hero Island, and retrace the steps of classic movie moments at Universal Studios. Visitors of every age will have a blast at Universal Orlando Resort because of its many thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and interactive attractions. Prepare to enter a fantasy realm and make recollections that will last a lifetime.
Go Zip Lining at the Central Florida Zoo
A thrilling experience, the zip line soars you into the canopy of trees for a bird’s-eye view of the zoo and its surroundings. Experience a burst of excitement as you soar from platform to platform above the animal exhibits below. The zip line course is a must-do for adrenaline enthusiasts because of the thrilling mix of speed, height, and scenic vistas it provides. Watch out for roaming wildlife as you zip through the air; it will give an extra thrill to your adventure. At the Central Florida Zoo, you may let your hair down and make fantastic memories.
Cycle the West Orange Trail
Prepare to cycle along Orlando’s West Orange Trail through beautiful scenery. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and ability levels can enjoy an excellent riding adventure on this 22-mile track. Get on your bike and travel through picturesque orange groves, tranquil lakes, and shaded path-lined-with-trees. You can feel the cool breeze on your face as you ride along the well-kept track while admiring the surrounding beauty.
Along the journey, you can explore nearby stores, cafes, and historical monuments thanks to the West Orange Trail passing through quaint small villages. The West Orange Trail offers a variety of cycling adventures, whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride with your family or a lone ride. Take in the sights, savor the tranquility, and revel in the pleasure of cycling outside.
Orlando is a great family vacation spot because of its warm and welcoming ambiance. Everyone, even the kids, can have a unique and educational experience in the city thanks to the variety of family-friendly attractions, engaging displays, and educational opportunities.
