Everyone knows Orlando, Florida, as the chaotic city home to multiple iconic theme parks. But outside of the busy theme parks and tourist destinations, there is a vibrant city full of unique experiences. Orlando offers a variety of fun things to do beyond the theme parks, from the new game of park golf to paddleboarding in a natural spring; something is hiding in every corner.
Although we all love a trip to Disney or Universal, trying something new is a way to keep the family trips feeling new and exciting. In fact, nearly 40% of travelers now say they actively seek out less touristy, more local experiences when planning trips (Skift Research, 2023).
Keep reading to discover some unique experiences in Orlando that will keep you away from the craziness of the city.
Park Golf At 1Club
There is a new attraction in town, and it’s called park golf. 1Club is bringing the game of park golf to Orlando, a fast, fun, and social version of golf that anyone can play. Park golf brings a fresh new twist to the traditional golf experience. Unlike the larger, intimidating courses, Park Golf is designed to be a shorter, more intimate course that brings people together.
The course layout is perfect for beginners who want to try golf without feeling overwhelmed. Seasoned golfers who want to switch things up and have a more casual round of golf will also appreciate it. Park golf has been around for many years, as it originated in Japan in 1983 and quickly gained traction. It is now enjoyed worldwide and is one of the best outdoor family activities in Orlando.
Related: The History of Park Golf (and Why It’s Taking Off)
Fit for all ages and skill levels
This newly opened golf course offers fun, unique experiences that are fit for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, park golf is a simple game that brings everyone together. One of the main differences of Park Golf is the equipment. Instead of using traditional golf clubs and balls, Park Golf uses just one club, larger balls, and a shorter course. This makes it an easier, more enjoyable experience for all skill levels.
Perfect for social events and family outings
Park Golf combines simplicity with just the right amount of challenge, making it the perfect activity for social events, family outings, or even solo play. Whether it’s the main event or just a pit stop, park golf brings excitement to every occasion. A full round takes about two hours, making it the perfect way to get more people involved in your outing without changing the core golf experience.
1Club is surrounded by nature, giving the course a relaxing and peaceful feel that adds to the park golf experience. You can also fuel your park golf experience by grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing drink at the concession area. The wide selection of tasty foods and beverages makes it the perfect spot to celebrate a win or if you need to take a break between holes.
If you’re in Orlando and looking for a fun, casual way to enjoy the outdoors, 1Club is the perfect place to visit. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or just looking for a new experience, this innovative course will surely provide a memorable outing for everyone. You can find more information on how to sign up for the park golf course in Orlando.
Related: A New Orlando Attraction, Park Golf Course is Now Open To The Public
Rock Springs
Hidden beneath the busy city is a natural wonder; as both a crucial resource and a unique experience, the Florida aquifer system is one of Florida’s most fascinating attractions. The Floridan aquifer system feeds several natural springs, including Rock Springs.
Rock Springs is a true hidden gem known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful scenery, giving visitors a truly unique experience. For those looking for a quieter, more wholesome experience to add to their trip to Orlando, exploring rock springs might be the perfect adventure for you. Rock springs stay cool year-round making it a hotspot for tubing, swimming, paddling, and snorkeling.
The ideal place for tubing
Rock Spring has a natural flow that makes it the ideal place for tubing. Visitors can rent tubes to float in the spring, giving them an all-natural lazy river experience. Floating about three-quarters of a mile and back takes approximately 30 minutes, giving visitors plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way. Visitors can also add some excitement to their experience by renting a canoe.
A variety of wildlife
Beyond its Crystal-clear waters, Rock Springs is home to a variety of wildlife. With a variety of fish, turtles, birds and the high possibility of spotting manatees in colder months, Rock Springs has become a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Rock Springs is the perfect destination for families, as it is the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. There are lots of things to keep kids busy, while the parents can relax in the picnic area or take a walk along the nature trails, making for one of the best family activities in Orlando.
Rock Springs is located in Kelly Park, where you can find seven miles of perfect hiking trails and shaded picnic areas, allowing visitors to explore the park easily. If you want to keep the fun going, Kelly Park also offers several campgrounds, making it the ideal spot to have some family fun in Orlando this weekend.
Whether you’re looking for some family fun or a relaxing day by the water, Rock Springs provides the perfect getaway. Its natural beauty and relaxing vibe make it a must-visit place for anyone looking for things to do near Orlando and wanting to experience a different side of the city beyond the theme parks.
Related: An Exciting New Jersey Family Attraction, Park Golf, is Coming Soon!
Discovery Cove
Just a short distance from Orlando’s theme parks is a hidden gem called Discovery Cove. Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort, but unlike Orlando’s other theme parks, Discovery Cove has a limited number of guests each day. This ensures visitors will never feel overwhelmed by the crowds and gives the park a relaxing, more intimate atmosphere, perfect for those who want to escape the craziness of the busy city.
For those looking to have a tropical, relaxing getaway, Discovery Cove is the perfect spot, with white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and a lazy river. Discovery Cove also makes for the perfect place to unwind after a busy adventurous day. Whether relaxing after a chaotic day at the theme parks or just treating yourself, Discover Cove’s Spa is the place to be.
Swimming with dolphins
Offering a variety of spa treatments from massages to facials, there is something for everyone. Beyond relaxation, there is also a wide variety of fun, from swimming with dolphins to engaging in immersive animal experiences. One of Discovery Cove’s biggest attractions is swimming with dolphin’s experience. For many, swimming with dolphins is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Discovery Cove has created the perfect environment to give visitors the experience they’ve always dreamed of.
In small, guided groups, you’ll get to interact, play, and swim with these incredible creatures. This is the perfect place to connect with dolphins and learn more about them in a safe and controlled environment. Swimming with dolphins is one of the many unique things to do in Orlando that not many people get to say they’ve done, and it is truly a memorable experience. In addition to swimming with dolphins, Discovery Cove also has several other interactive animal experiences.
Snorkeling in the Grand Reef
One of the unique experiences is snorkeling in the Grand Reef. Home to thousands of fish, rays, and even sharks, the grand reef is designed to mimic a natural reef. The reef is filled with colorful coral and beautiful underwater scenery, giving visitors the most unique experience possible.
For those who love birds, the Serenity Bay area offers a close-up experience with a variety of exotic birds, from parrots to colorful macaws. Here, you get to interact with and hand-feed the birds. These experiences offer visitors a deeper appreciation and connection to wildlife that they’ve never experienced before. Another reason Discovery Cove stands out is its price inclusion.
The price of admission not only includes animal interactions, but it also includes all meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. This means there are no additional costs once you’ve entered the park, making it easy to enjoy your day without worrying about extra expenses or waiting in long food lines.
Discovery Cove offers a refreshing twist to Orlando’s typical theme park experience. Whether you’re there to swim with dolphins or lounge on the beach, it’s one of the most fun things to do in Orlando and is a place where guests can learn, relax, and connect with nature in unforgettable ways. If you’re visiting Orlando, make sure Discovery Cove is a part of your journey; it’s an experience unlike any other.
Things to Do in Orlando Off the Beaten Path
Image by Michelle Pitzel from Pixabay
There are plenty of fun and unique things hidden throughout Orlando. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or some family fun, there is so much more to explore than the famous theme parks. From an exciting round of park golf, swimming with dolphins at Discover Cove, or exploring Rock Springs, the busy city is filled with hidden gems waiting for you to explore.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Orlando, Florida, check out the table below for a quick guide to some of the city’s best places to visit.
| Activity | Type | Best Time to Visit | Ideal For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Park Golf at 1Club | Outdoor Activity | Morning or Evening (Year-round) | Families, Friends, Weekend Outings | Short course, relaxing vibe, all ages |
| Rock Springs (Kelly Park) | Nature Adventure | Spring/Summer | Nature lovers, Families, Swimmers | Tubing, Wildlife, Natural spring |
| Discovery Cove | Resort / Animal Encounter | All Year (advance booking) | Couples, Families, Animal lovers | Swim with dolphins, all-inclusive, snorkel reef |
Escape the busy city and slow down with some outdoor fun at 1Club and create memories that will last a lifetime.