38 Best Indoor Activities For Kids In Orlando (2024)

Despite being known as the Sunshine State, even Florida has a rainy day or two. Thankfully, however, the city of Orlando is home to a treasure trove of indoor activities that are perfect for keeping the little ones entertained.

From exploring the wonders of science in a hands-on learning environment to creating your very own crayon at the Crayola Experience, there’s no end to the indoor adventures that await you and your family

1. Crayola Experience

Located inside the Florida Mall, Crayola Experience offers a day filled with creative activities and exploring the magic of colour.

We had the pleasure of visiting the Crayola Experience during our most recent trip to Orlando (July 2023) and spent our time drawing in the digital design studio, moulding a crayon into a car and even creating crayons of our very own.

There are two large soft play areas inside the Crayola Experience, one suitable for toddlers and younger children and a taller more expansive one for older children. Alongside this, you’ll find a small café and a large gift store located at the exit.

2. The Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is an interactive museum that provides a hands-on learning environment so good that it removes any preconceptions you ever had about museums. With a plethora of exhibitions and activities designed to foster a love of science and discovery, it is a must-visit attraction for families seeking an enriching and educational experience.

Set across four floors, the interactive exhibits here include; space, dinosaurs and the human body making it the perfect place for curious minds, both young and old. Alongside the standard museum exhibits, you’ll find several one-off events taking place throughout the year which are advertised months in advance on the museum’s website and social media channels.

3. WonderWorks

WonderWorks is an incredible attraction in the heart of the city, located just next door to the popular Pointe Orlando. Housed in its iconic upside-down building, WonderWorks offers an unforgettable and educational adventure that is sure to captivate kids and adults alike with its myriad of interactive exhibits and fun-filled activities.

WonderWorks features more than 100 hands-on exhibits designed to challenge the mind and inspire the imagination. From feeling the effects of a Category 1 hurricane to experiencing the sensation of floating in space, your little ones can immerse themselves in an array of unique scientific wonders.

4. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Situated within the popular ICON Park you’ll find the relatively new Sea Life Center. This aquarium offers an immersive journey into the diverse marine life that thrives beneath the surface of our oceans.

Here, kids can come face-to-face with everything from colourful tropical fish to mesmerising jellyfish, all while gaining a better understanding of the marine ecosystem.

We visited the Sea Life Center as a family during our most recent trip to Orlando (July 2023) and had an incredible couple of hours learning about marine life and the efforts the centre is making in marine conservation.

What was really great about the Sea Life Center is that we, as parents, were just as excited and entertained throughout our visit.

5. Madame Tussauds Orlando

Also situated within ICON Park is the popular Madame Tussauds wax museum. This museum is home to more than 200 wax figures, including historical figures such as Albert Einstein and Walt Disney, athletes such as Serena Williams and Lionel Messi, and even musicians such as Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus.

Unlike some of the other attractions on this list Madame Tussauds isn’t going to be an entire day experience, but instead is a great way to spend a couple of hours indoors while in Orlando.

6. Dezerland Park

Dezerland Park is Florida’s largest indoor attraction and features an auto museum alongside a wide range of attractions, including; go-kart racing, trampolines, an arcade, a ninja warrior course, and even a virtual reality experience.

With so many options to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something that will keep your little ones entertained for hours on end. However, since each attraction within Dezerland Park is priced individually it’s also very easy to spend a lot of money here in a short amount of time.

7. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is an ‘odditorium’ where you’ll encounter a mesmerising collection of oddities and curiosities from around the globe. Making this a haven for the curious and the adventurous.

During your visit, you’ll be able to explore interactive exhibits that challenge your perception of reality and defy explanation. From astonishing artefacts to mind-boggling illusions, a trip to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is something that kids talk about weeks and even months later.

8. K1 Speed Orlando

K1 Speed is the premier indoor go-kart racing facility that offers an exhilarating experience for both kids and adults. Strap yourself into a high-performance electric kart and get ready to zoom around the track, feeling the adrenaline rush as you navigate twists, turns, and straightaways.

The professionally designed track at K1 Speed offers an authentic and adrenaline-pumping racing experience in a safe environment, while the advanced timing systems allow you to track your lap times and compete against friends and family.

9. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games Orlando

Another popular indoor karting location in Orlando is Andretti Indoor Karting & Games. However, unlike K1 Speed, this place is more of an entertainment complex and offers laser tag, a ropes course, arcade games, and virtual reality experiences in addition to a go-karting experience.

Of course, this can be great if you’ve got kids with different interests or are looking to spend the entire day indoors. However, it can also be very expensive since each of the attractions within the complex are paid for separately.

10. SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology

SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology is a unique museum that explores the fascinating world of anatomy and natural science. This museum showcases an extensive collection of real animal skeletons, providing a captivating educational experience for visitors of all ages.

From delicate bird skeletons to massive mammal specimens, this museum provides the opportunity for you to explore the intricacies of different species and gain a deeper understanding of their skeletal structures.

As you wander through the museum, you’ll encounter a diverse array of exhibits that highlight the beauty and complexity of the animal kingdom. Learn about adaptation, evolution, and the interconnectedness of different species. Marvel at the sheer variety of skeletal forms and discover the amazing adaptations that allow animals to thrive in their respective environments.

11. Chocolate Museum & Café

The Chocolate Museum & Café is designed to educate and immerse yourself in the rich world of chocolate. Here you’ll about the origins of cocoa beans, the chocolate-making process, and the cultural significance chocolate has around the world.

You’ll also find several intricate chocolate sculptures and displays that showcase the artistry and craftsmanship behind chocolate creations. After a couple of hours exploring the exhibits within the Chocolate Museum, you’ll be able to satisfy your sweet-tooth cravings at the café that serves a tempting selection of handcrafted chocolates, truffles, and other delectable confections.

12. iFLY Orlando Indoor Skydiving

Experience the thrill of skydiving without ever leaving the ground at the iFLY Indoor Skydiving arena. This state-of-the-art facility located on International Drive allows you to defy gravity and experience the sensation of freefall in a safe and controlled environment.

With the help of experienced instructors, adults and children aged 3 and older are able to learn how to maintain stability and control while floating inside the wind tunnel, stimulating the sensation of a real skydive, complete with adrenaline rush and the feeling of weightlessness.

13. M&M’s at Disney Springs

If you’re only looking to hide from the rain for an hour or two then head down to Disney Springs where you’ll find an array of restaurants and unique attractions including the incredible M&M Store.

Set across three floors, this vibrant store is a paradise for candy lovers and offers a delightful experience for the whole family. While there’s no dedicated attraction here, the store does offer several interactive displays, incredible M&M merchandise and of course, a vast assortment of candy for you to purchase.

14. Movie Theaters

Orlando is home to several incredible movie theatres showing the latest blockbuster films in high-definition luxury. Some of our favourite movie theatres in Orlando include;

  • AMC at Disney Springs
  • Regal Pointe at Orlando Stadium
  • Cinemark Orlando in the Artegon Marketplace
  • Universal Cinemark at CityWalk

15. Shopping At The Orlando Premium Outlets

Orlando is home to two incredible premium shopping outlets; one on International Drive and one in Vineland, each of which features more than 100 different stores selling products at up to 80% off when compared to RRP. Some of our favourite stores at the Orlando shopping outlets include;

  • Disney’s Character Warehouse
  • Coach
  • Nike
  • Adidas
  • Yankee Candle

While each store here is indoors, getting between them does require you to walk outside, so you’ll want to keep that in mind when planning your visit here.

16. Escape Room

Orlando is home to several different Escape Rooms where you can go as a family, couple, or group of friends to put your problem-solving skills to the test in an effort to escape the room before the timer runs out.

Our personal favourite Escape Room in Orlando is currently the Escape Game which is located on International Drive and boasts six different rooms for you to choose from including “Gold Rush” and “Mission Mars”.

17. Medieval Times

Medieval Times is one of the best dinner shows in all of Orlando. Here you’ll go on a journey to the age of knights, kings, and chivalry. Witness epic battles, jousting tournaments, and displays of bravery as knights compete for honour and victory.

As you enter the grand castle, you’ll be transported to a medieval realm filled with excitement and pageantry. Enjoy a delicious meal fit for royalty as you cheer for your designated knight and become engrossed in the captivating performances. From equestrian displays to sword fighting, Medieval Times offers an unforgettable evening of entertainment for the whole family.

Unfortunately, this dinner show only takes place on an evening. Therefore if you’re looking to escape the rain during the daytime, you’re going to have to look for an alternative activity.

18. Laser Tag

Orlando is home to several thrilling and action-packed laser tag arenas. Here you’ll combine strategy and teamwork in a fast-paced battle of laser beams. You can visit most laser tag arenas as a family, or as a single person and join up with other players to compete. All of our favourite laser tag arenas are located on International Drive and include;

  • Hard Knocks
  • Battlefield Live Orlando
  • WhirlyDome

19. Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the world of art and culture. Located in Loch Haven Cultural Park, this renowned museum showcases a diverse collection of artworks from various periods.

The museum has an extensive range of carefully curated exhibitions that span a wide range of artistic styles and mediums. From contemporary pieces to traditional artworks, you’ll encounter paintings, sculptures, photography, and more, each telling a unique story and inviting contemplation.

20. Splitsville at Disney Springs

Another popular attraction located within the entertainment district of Disney Springs is the Splitsville Luxury Lanes. This unique bowling alley combines the excitement of bowling with a lively and upscale atmosphere, making it a favourite destination for families looking to escape the rain or heat and humidity of Florida.

In our opinion, Splitsville is more than just a bowling alley. It’s a complete entertainment venue in and of itself featuring live music performances, billiards, an outdoor patio and an incredible menu of food and drinks that is sure to keep everyone entertained.

21. Central Florida Railroad Museum

Situated in the popular neighbourhood of Winter Garden you’ll find the Central Florida Railroad Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored depot, the museum offers a glimpse into the significant role that railroads played in shaping Central Florida’s growth and development.

Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits featuring artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays, gaining insights into the construction of rail lines, the impact on the local economy, and the experiences of workers and passengers.

Alongside this the museum also boasts a collection of vintage locomotives and train cars, allowing adults and kids alike an opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent machines.

22. Monkey Joe

If you’re looking to let the kids burn off some of that extra energy then be sure to visit Monkey Joe. Situated inside Point Orlando, this vibrant indoor play centre that offers a wide range of inflatable slides, bounce houses, obstacle courses, and interactive games for children.

ids can jump, slide, and explore through the inflatable play structures, letting their imaginations run wild as they engage in active play. With trained staff members overseeing the play areas, parents can have peace of mind knowing that their children are safe and secure while they enjoy the excitement.

23. Dave & Busters

Dave & Buster’s is a fun-filled entertainment destination that combines dining and gaming for a unique and thrilling experience. With a wide selection of video games, simulators, and interactive experiences, visitors of all ages can enjoy the excitement and fun.

However, not only does Dave & Buster’s offers thrilling gaming options, but it also features a full-service restaurant and bar where you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious menu that includes appetizers, burgers, pizzas, and more.

At Dave & Busters, you don’t pay for entry, and instead, you’ll be required to top-up your Power Card to play the games, which can sometimes make a trip here an expensive day out.

24. Obstacle Ninja Academy

The Obstacle Ninja Academy in Orlando offers an action-packed and exhilarating experience for both kids and adults. Inspired by the popular television show American Ninja Warrior, this unique facility features a variety of thrilling obstacles that challenge participants to push their limits.

From swinging ropes to balance beams and warped walls, there’s no shortage of excitement at the academy. With programs and classes designed for all skill levels, individuals can train, improve their agility, and enhance their problem-solving skills in a supportive environment.

25. Orange County Regional History Center

The Orange County Regional History Center in downtown Orlando is a captivating museum that takes visitors on a journey through the rich history of Orange County. Housed in a historic courthouse, the museum showcases exhibits that cover a wide range of topics, including social history, regional developments, and significant events.

From the early Native American inhabitants to the modern era, the displays, artefacts, and interactive experiences bring the area’s unique cultural heritage to life. As you explore the museum, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Orange County’s past, from the influences that shaped its architecture and landscapes to the pivotal moments in its history, such as the Civil Rights movement and the impact of World War II.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts temporary displays and offers educational programs, workshops, and guided tours, allowing visitors to delve further into Orange County’s history.

26. Mennello Museum of American Art

The Mennello Museum of American Art is a captivating cultural institution that celebrates the richness and diversity of American art. Housed in a beautiful lakeside setting, this museum offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all backgrounds and ages.

As you step into the museum, you’ll be greeted by a carefully curated selection of artworks that span a wide range of styles and periods. From traditional to contemporary, the exhibits offer a comprehensive view of American art, featuring paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media creations. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists, as well as emerging talents, providing a dynamic and thought-provoking experience for art enthusiasts.

27. Winter Garden Heritage Museum

Situated in the nearby city of Winter Garden, the Winter Garden Heritage Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the area. Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases exhibits and artefacts that tell the story of Winter Garden’s past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

This museum takes you back in time to explore the city’s roots and the people who shaped its development. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the citrus industry that played a significant role in Winter Garden’s growth, the railroad history that connected the city to the rest of Florida, and the daily lives of its residents throughout the years.

28. Titanic Artifact Exhibition

The Titanic Artifact Exhibition is one of the most visited attractions in Orlando and provides a unique opportunity to explore the history and tragedy of the legendary RMS Titanic, one of the most iconic ships in maritime history.

As you enter the exhibition, you’ll be transported to the grandeur of the Titanic’s era. The meticulously curated displays feature a vast collection of artefacts recovered from the ocean floor, providing a tangible connection to the ill-fated ship and its passengers. From personal belongings to ship components, the artefacts offer a poignant glimpse into the lives of those onboard, showcasing the luxury and opulence of the Titanic.

Beyond the artefacts, the exhibition tells captivating stories of the ship’s construction, its ill-fated maiden voyage, and the tragic events that unfolded on that fateful night. Engaging displays, historical information, and multimedia presentations provide a comprehensive narrative that explores the ship’s design, the lives of its passengers and crew, and the legacy left by the disaster.

29. Cornell Fine Arts Museum

Situated on the campus of Rollins College in Winter Park, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum is a cultural gem that showcases a diverse collection of art spanning different periods and styles. With its stunning exhibits and commitment to fostering artistic appreciation, the museum offers a captivating experience for art enthusiasts and visitors of all backgrounds.

Meanwhile, for slightly older children, The Cornell Fine Arts Museum offers programs, workshops, and lectures that encourage visitors to delve deeper into the artworks and their cultural significance.

30. Trampoline Park

Orlando is home to several incredible trampoline parks that provide a high-flying and exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages. Some of our favourite trampoline parks in the city include;

  • AirHeads Trampoline Arena
  • Rebounderz
  • Sky Zone
  • Altitude Trampoline Park

31. Museum of Illusions

The Orlando Museum of Illusions is one of several indoor attractions located at ICON Park. Here you’ll have the opportunity to take photos with a vast number of murals that create an illusion of reality.

The novelty of this museum is fantastic. However, we personally found the process a little repetitive after seven or eight murals. As such we’d only recommend this visiting this attraction with older children who may be interested in the photos for social media and / or have a longer attention span.

32. Cirque du Soleil

Walt Disney Animation Studios, Cirque du Soleil, and Walt Disney Imagineering have come together to present Drawn to Life, a unique family-friendly show.

Located at Disney Springs, this award-winning performance features acrobats using aerial pencils, Russian swings, and teeterboards and tells the story of a young girl’s journey into an imaginary realm full of Disney’s classic magic.

33. Aiguille Rock Climbing Center

For those seeking adventure and a thrilling physical challenge, the Aiguille Rock Climbing Center in Orlando is the ultimate destination. This state-of-the-art indoor climbing facility offers a variety of climbing routes and experiences for climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned climbers.

Located in the heart of Orlando, the Aiguille Rock Climbing Center features a diverse range of climbing walls that mimic the rugged and natural surfaces found in outdoor climbing environments. With different levels of difficulty and various climbing techniques required, climbers can test their strength, agility, and problem-solving skills as they navigate the walls.

34. Putting Edge

Get ready for a glow-in-the-dark mini-golf experience like no other at Orlando Putting Edge. This unique indoor mini-golf course takes you on a journey through an immersive and vibrant world filled with glowing landscapes, challenging obstacles, and exciting twists and turns.

As you make your way around the course you’ll be surrounded by glowing artwork, neon lights, and captivating blacklight effects that create an otherworldly ambience in a one-of-a-kind mini-golf adventure that combines skill, fun, and a mesmerising atmosphere.

35. Semoran Skateway

Put on your roller skates or lace up your rollerblades and head to Semoran Skateway in Orlando for a fun-filled and nostalgic roller skating experience. This beloved roller rink has been a local favourite for decades and offers a classic and entertaining activity for people of all ages

Located on Semoran Boulevard, Semoran Skateway provides a spacious and well-maintained skating facility that welcomes beginners and experienced skaters alike. The rink even provides a range of skating sessions, including open skate times, themed events, and special sessions for different age groups.

36. Arcade City

Step into a world of retro gaming excitement and endless entertainment at Arcade City. This dynamic arcade venue offers a vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere where visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in a wide array of classic and modern arcade games.

Located in the heart of Orlando, Arcade City features a vast selection of arcade machines, ranging from timeless classics like Pac-Man and Space Invaders to cutting-edge video games with immersive graphics and interactive gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or simply looking to relive the joy of your childhood, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

37. Pirates Dinner Adventure

Prepare to set sail on a swashbuckling adventure and indulge in a feast fit for a pirate at the incredible Pirates Dinner Adventure. This immersive dinner show combines thrilling live performances, captivating storytelling, and a delectable meal to create an unforgettable evening of entertainment for the whole family.

Located just off International Drive, Pirates Dinner Adventure takes place in a magnificent replica of an 18th-century Spanish galleon. As you step aboard the ship, you’ll be transported to a world of pirates, treasure hunts, and high-seas escapades. Experiencing an exciting theatrical experience in a truly immersive environment.

Sadly, this dinner show only takes place on an evening. So if you’re looking to head indoors during the daytime while in Orlando then unfortunately, you’ll need to find a different activity.

38. Kennedy Space Center

Located around an hour’s drive from Orlando on the Space Coast you’ll find the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. This incredible attraction is a tribute to the missions past and present that the US has made into outer space.

While the attraction itself is situated outdoors, you’ll spend the majority of your day inside one of several buildings learning about space missions through interactive and immersive presentations and displays.

As a family, we’re not that into space (although our son is still only 19 months old, so there’s definitely time) and therefore never made the drive over to the Kennedy Space Center in all the years we’ve been visiting Orlando.

That was until our most recent trip (July 2023) when we grew tired of friends and family members telling us how we were missing out on an incredible day out and as it turns out they were right. This attraction is incredible, thought-provoking and provides great value for money.

Orlando Travel Planning Guide

🏥 Should I Buy Travel Insurance for a Trip to Orlando?

If you’re travelling to Orlando for vacation, then travel insurance is recommended. Basic travel insurance coverage with Safety Wing averages between $5 – $10 per day and offers peace of mind.

However, if a trip to Orlando isn’t part of a vacation. For example, you live locally. Then travel insurance isn’t likely to be necessary.

🚘 Do I Need to Rent a Car for a Trip to Orlando?

You don’t need to rent a car for a trip to Orlando (you can use rideshare services instead). However, a hire car will make your trip to Orlando significantly more convenient.

I personally use Discover Cars to find the best car rental deals when visiting Orlando. Discover Cars allows you to compare different companies and cars to find the best prices.

🏨 Where to Stay in Orlando?

Deciding where to stay in Orlando can be incredibly overwhelming. Having visited Orlando several times over the past decade, I’m going to try and make it as simple as possible.

When booking accommodation in Orlando, I use either Booking.com or Hotels.com. However, for large families and groups, VRBO is my number one choice.

🎟️ Where To Buy Orlando Theme Park Tickets?

If you are visiting a theme park in Orlando, then you’ll need to purchase theme park tickets. If you’re based in the US or Canada, I recommend Klook for your Orlando theme park tickets.

Klook consistently has the most competitive prices. There’s also a range of different ticket options to suit all budgets and requirements.

Meanwhile, if you’re based in the United Kingdom. Then I recommend buying your Orlando theme park tickets from AttractionTix.

I personally use AttractionTix when purchasing theme park tickets. That’s because AttractionTix has the most competitive prices and incredible customer service.

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