Orlando’s Disney Springs has some of the best restaurants in the city but there’s a lot more going on at this family-friendly venue. If you’re wondering what to do in Orlando when you’re not in the theme parks, this article is for you.
Learn what it means to go to a luxury bowling alley
Whether you’re a huge bowling fan or this will be your first time, Splitsville Luxury Lanes is an incredible place to be. This 2-story, 50,000 square foot bowling alley has some upscale dining and a nostalgic feel. With 30 lanes, live entertainment most nights, seating both indoors and outdoors, and an eclectic menu including everything from sushi to cheeseburgers, it’s a great place to take the kids or for a night out on the town.
Visit the Coca Cola Store
Coker lovers will be in heaven at the Coca Cola Store. This two-story property has every type of Coke souvenir a person can imagine. There are also unique Coke products from around the world for you to try, as well as spiked Coke cocktails for the adults. Kids love getting their photo taken with an adorable, huggable polar bear. The rooftop bar also features some of the best views of Disney Springs.
Listen to some tune at The House of Blues
As you contemplate what to do in Orlando, you’ll likely consider listening to some unique tunes. Disney Springs offers a great option in the House of Blues. Both a cultural and musical hub, you’ll see a great mix of southern music and southern cuisine. Depending on when you’re visiting, you may be able to check out national or regional acts, and you’ll be able to have a bite at the famous Blues Kitchen. Every Sunday is reserved for the soul-tapping World Famous Gospel Brunch, which brings together gospel music and soul food.
Don’t miss the Visitors Center
With so much to do at Disney Springs, it may seem unusual that checking out the Visitors Center is on this list, but it offers a unique look into the history of this area and of Disney World. You’ll see paintings that depict the story of Disney Springs, including an Imagineering-invented storyline about a Florida settlement.
Soar into the air at Characters of Flight
If soaring 400 feet into the air is your idea of a good time then you’ll love Characters in Flight. This experience holds a many as 29 guests at a time and is the largest tethered helium balloon in the world. You’ll get incredible views not just of Disney Springs but of the Orlando area. It is not for the faint of heart but those who love a good view won’t want to miss this.
Ride in a retro amphibious car at The Boathouse
Many people will recommend The Boathouse due to their family-friendly food and that’s a valid reason to go – but it’s not the only reason to go. If you want to know what to do in Orlando that you can’t do anywhere else in the world, then you want to check out the amphibious retro cars at The Boathouse. These rides aren’t cheap but where else can you get into a classic car that plunges right into a lake?
Take your pick of tasty treats from several food trucks
There are three food trucks at Disney Springs every day of the week. The section of the Springs known as Exposition Park has a street taco truck, one with international foods from all over the world, and one truck called Fantasy Fare, which brings together treats from around the Disney Parks.
Get souvenirs at the World of Disney
World of Disney, which is located at Disney Springs, is the largest Disney souvenir shop in Orlando. There you’ll find literally thousands of t-shirts, mugs, mouse ears, and other unique souvenir options. If you want to get all your shopping done at once, check out this store and then you’ll be free to leave the theme parks empty handed.
Stop by the LEGO Store
The LEGO Store at Disney Springs is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. There are oodles of free bricks for the kids to build and play with. There’s no cost at all – just let the kids go wild! You can also check out some truly incredible LEGO sculptures of Disney scenes and characters. Of course, there are plenty of LEGO sets for sale too.
