39 Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Adults

If you’re looking for a list of FUN things to do in Orlando for adults, you’re in luck!

Whether you’ve left the kids at home or are traveling to Orlando with adult friends, there are so many Orlando attractions for adults that you’re gonna love!

Although it’s no secret that Orlando is home to several of the most famous amusement parks in the world, most visitors don’t even realize all the other amazing attractions Orlando has to offer – including those places that surpass just being entertainment for kids.

Look no further to find our list of 35 fun things to do in Orlando for adults suitable for both day and nighttime fun.

These Orlando activities for adults (most of which we’ve personally done!) will leave you filled with laughter and life-long memories!

If you’re looking for a list of FUN things to do in Orlando for adults, you’re in luck!

Whether you’ve left the kids at home or are traveling to Orlando with adult friends, there are so many Orlando attractions for adults that you’re gonna love!

Although it’s no secret that Orlando is home to several of the most famous amusement parks in the world, most visitors don’t even realize all the other amazing attractions Orlando has to offer – including those places that surpass just being entertainment for kids.

Look no further to find our list of 39 fun things to do in Orlando for adults, suitable for both day and nighttime fun.

These Orlando activities for adults (most of which we’ve personally done!) will leave you filled with laughter and life-long memories!

Orlando Activities for Adults

Located in central Florida, Orlando is one of the most visited cities in the world, primarily due to tourism.

It goes without saying that the city is known for its plethora of resorts, hotels, restaurants, waterparks, shopping (check out The Orlando International Premium Outlets), and day spas (here’s a complete list of Orlando spas!).

When traveling to a city so jam-packed with activities and attractions, you’ll definitely need a minimum of 3 days to explore Orlando.

However, most people spend 5-14 days here because of the multitude of things to see and do.

In this article, we’ve swapped out several of our must-do activities listed in our 6-day Orlando Family Vacation Itinerary for things to do in Orlando for adults (as adults can have an amazing time here too!)

Best Time to Visit Orlando

Keep in mind that the best time to visit Orlando is from March to May when temperatures average in the low 80s.

Another popular time to visit is between September and November, when crowds and prices are more manageable and when temperatures are in the mid-80s.

For those looking to visit Orlando during the summer months, Orlando offers the same great attractions – but with higher temperatures (90+ during the day) and humidity.

Because of this, it’s very important to learn how to stay cool in the Florida heat when visiting during the summer months.

1. Universal CityWalk

As an adult, I am a huge fan of Universal CityWalk and love its fun and happy vibe!

Universal CityWalk is a gigantic entertainment area situated directly outside the front gates of Orlando’s two Universal theme parks – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

It is sprawled around a beautiful lagoon that reflects the lights of the adjacent parks, making it especially beautiful at night.

Within CityWalk, you’ll find dozens of famous name-brand restaurants, ethnic and regional cuisine, bars, music venues, shopping, and special events.

Along with listening to live music at one of the many bars and restaurants, you can even catch a flick at the 20-screen Universal Cinemark movie theater found here.

We love CityWalk so much that I’ve written an entire article on the best restaurants in CityWalk as well as consider it to be one of the best things to do in Orlando overall!

Keep in mind that during the peak seasons of Spring Break, summer, and school holidays, restaurants in Citywalk will have especially long wait times. Luckily, most major restaurants allow reservations that can be booked ahead of time here!

Additional planning tips:

• Universal CityWalk parking is located in Universal’s main parking garage, which costs $27/vehicle.
• Aside from the parking fee, there is no entrance fee for CityWalk nor do visitors need theme park tickets to access and/or enter any of its venues.
• Do note that if you’re looking to save money, self-parking is free after 6 p.m.!
• And last, CityWalk is open until 2 AM, 365 days of the year, unlike the Universal theme parks that close between 6 and 8 PM.

2. International Drive

If you spend enough time out and about in Orlando, you’re bound to find yourself on the 11-mile stretch of International Drive.

Commonly known as I-Drive Orlando, International Drive is the city’s main tourist strip and commercial area and is a mecca for both family and adult entertainment.

As one of the best things in Orlando to do for adults, a cruise down International Drive will provide access to multiple resorts, restaurants, and dozens of fun and unique attractions.

Orlando attractions for adults that can be found on I-Drive include:

• Topgolf
• Dave & Buster’s
• The Escape Game
• Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
• Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
• And over 150 amazing restaurants!

Do not miss the chance to explore I-Drive Orlando during your next visit!

Additional planning tip: For $2/per ride or $5/per person for a 1-day unlimited pass, the I-Ride Trolley will transport you to and from hundreds of destinations on International Drive.

Visit here to learn all about Orlando’s awesome I-Ride Trolley!

3. ICON Park

Another one of our favorite things to do in Orlando for adults is to spend a few hours at ICON Park!

ICON Park is located along International Drive and is home to 50+ amazing restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and amusement park rides. 

If you don’t mind heights, must-see attractions at ICON Park include riding The Wheel (a 400-foot tall observation Ferris wheel), which is one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world.

When riding The Wheel, enclosed climate-controlled capsules will take you around and up in the air for more than 20 minutes to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Adults will also love ICON Park’s Orlando StarFlyer, the nation’s tallest swing ride!

The Orlando StarFlyer involves riding in a double seat and moving up and down while rotating around its giant 450-foot tower at speeds of up to 45 mph.

Visitors can also sit back, relax, and enjoy the entertainment with some adult beverages at the I-Drive Star Bar before or after your ride.

Additional planning tips: You’ll find the best prices for ICON Park attractions when purchasing them online ahead of time or in a bundle. Parking at ICON Park is free in their covered parking garage located right on the property.

4. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Located within ICON Park is Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, another one of our most recommended Orlando attractions for adults!

Madame Tussauds Orlando is a wax museum that features life-like re-creations of some of the most famous people on the planet.

Here, you’ll be able to get up close and personal (as well as photograph!) some of your favorite actors, singers, and celebrities – at least, the wax versions of them!

Orlando’s Madame Tussauds is home to life-sized versions of Taylor Swift, Ryan Reynolds, Serena Williams, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and so many more.

This is such a fun experience that you really have to see to believe just how fun and realistic it is!

Additional planning tip: For the best price, entrance to Madame Tussauds can be bundled with other ICON Park attractions.

5. ICEBAR Orlando

Hands down, one of the best Orlando things to do for adults is ICEBAR Orlando!

Featured as one of the top 10 bars on Travel Channel’s “Extreme Bar Hopping” and “America’s Best” on Food Network, ICEBAR Orlando is the largest permanent ice bar in the world.

Maintained at a temperature of 27 °F, seventy tons of ice have been carved into a winter wonderland with colorful lights, music, and the feel of the tundra.

The interior of ICEBAR includes furniture such as couches, tables, chairs, walls, and sculptures that are entirely constructed out of ice.

In addition, drinks are served in glasses made out of ice by servers wearing fur hats and snowsuits.

Guests here are provided with an insulated thermal cape and gloves to endure the coldness (these rentals are covered by the $15 entrance fee), and for safety, guests are limited to 45 minutes in the iced area.

If you get too cold, head over to the adjacent Fire Lounge for flaming cocktails, complete with a dance floor and live DJs.

6. Orlando Beer Spa

As a new trend in wellness, beer spas are an emerging market, and Orlando has jumped on the trend!

Yes, you heard it right….beer spas! Not only do spa visitors get to drink beer during their session, but they get to soak in it too!

At My Beer Spa (Orlando’s first beer spa!), solo visitors and couples get a chance to spend one hour in a private room experiencing three different treatments, including a soak in a tub full of hops and antioxidants.

…all while sipping unlimited self-serve craft beer and wine on tap.

Here, a large wooden tub is filled with water, hops, live beer yeast, beer oil, and beer salt. It is said that the low pH helps soften and tighten hair follicles while also cleansing hair and skin.

Plus, it’s full of nutrients and B2 that help make hair and skin shinier and softer.

Beer soaking treatments range in price from $129/person to $299/4 people, with complimentary self-serve beer, of course!

(This is something we definitely want to try out!)

6. Walt Disney World

No list of things to do in Orlando is complete without a mention of the world-famous Walt Disney World Resort!

With four theme parks, two water parks, and four world-class golf courses, Disney parks have plenty to keep the whole family entertained – regardless of age.

Our 1-day theme park itineraries and top recommendations for adults can be found below.

Magic Kingdom

Here’s our 1-day Magic Kingdom touring plan.

At Magic Kingdom, embrace your inner nostalgia and wave hello to Mickey and Minnie Mouse!

Also, be sure to ride Magic Kingdom’s most thrilling rides, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and the new TRON Lightcyle Run.

Enjoy the Hall of Presidents, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, and the evening fireworks extravaganza – our favorite shows to watch as adults when visiting Magic Kingdom.

Epcot

Here’s our 1-day Epcot touring plan.

In my opinion, the best Epcot rides for adults are Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Test Track, Soarin, and Mission: SPACE.

Sticking with the space theme, be sure to snag a reservation at Space 220 Restaurant at Epcot – a brand-new innovative dining experience that makes guests feel like they’re dining 220 miles above the Earth’s surface.

In addition, visit Epcot’s World Showcase, where adults can enjoy the ‘drinking around the world’ tradition while grabbing a beverage at each ‘country’ within Epcot.

Animal Kingdom

Here’s our 1-day Animal Kingdom touring plan.

If you enjoy both live animals and thrill rides, you’ll love spending time at Animal Kingdom as it includes both (it’s somewhat of a zoo and theme park in one).

The Animal Kingdom rides that I continue to enjoy as an adult are Avatar Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and DINOSAUR.

I also highly recommend watching the shows Festival of the Lion King and It’s Tough to be a Bug (so cute and so funny!).

Hollywood Studios

Are you a movie buff? If so, head to Hollywood!

Disney’s Hollywood Studios celebrates the history of cinema, television, and music with amazing rides, including Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and Rock n’ Roller Coaster.

The best shows for adults at Hollywood Studios include:

• Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
• The Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular
• Muppet Vision 3D
• And Mickey Shorts Theater

8. Universal Orlando Resort

Right up in the ranks of Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort is sure to offer a fun-filled day for guests of all ages – including adults!

If you’re trying to decide between the two, here’s our list of the biggest differences between Disney vs. Universal, including thrill-factor ride comparisons.

Universal Orlando Resort consists of two theme parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure) and one water park (Typhoon Lagoon Water Park), with a third theme park, Epic Universe, expected to open in 2025.

Ride Escape from Gringotts and take a stroll through Diagon Alley at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Go back in time on Jurassic Park River Adventure and speed through the Fast & Furious: Supercharged.

Or say hi to some of your favorite superheroes, as Marvel’s Avengers, Spider-Man, and the Incredible Hulk are all featured in rides here.

Want to learn more?

As one of our favorite theme parks of all time, we’ve compiled a list of 45 Universal Studios tips and hacks to review before your visit.

9. Seaworld Orlando

Adult animal lovers and thrill-seekers will delight in a visit to Seaworld Orlando!

Many people don’t realize that Seaworld Orlando offers both up-close marine animal experiences and shows, as well as roller coasters and rides.

This park truly has it all. Plus, it’s beautifully landscaped and does not have the typical hectic theme park atmosphere.

Our favorite experiences are the orca, dolphin, and sea lion shows and the Shark Encounter. We also love the Manta, Mako, and Kraken roller coasters (which are all super scary!).

Make it a date and enjoy premium cocktails on the scenic patio of Flamecraft Bar and enjoy dinner at the Seafire Grill or Sharks Underwater Grill and Bar!

Additional planning tip: Along with needing to pay the price for park tickets, general parking is $25 per vehicle.

10. Winter Park

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, head 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando to the neighborhood of Winter Park.

Visit Winter Park’s epicenter, Park Avenue. Here, you’ll find a cobblestoned street lined with trees and filled with popular restaurants, museums, and some of the best shopping in the Orlando area.

In addition, the Saturday Farmers’ Market is a popular stop where you can shop for produce, flowers, and handmade goods.

If you’re craving an outdoor adventure, Winter Park is also home to dozens of canals and 12 small lakes known as the Winter Park Chain of Lakes.

Along with paddle board and kayaking rentals, you can go on a narrated, one-hour scenic boat tour through the channels to view area wildlife and multimillion-dollar mansions.

Going on a date here is possibly one of the most serene and romantic things to do in Orlando for adults.

11. Disney Springs

Formerly known as Downtown Disney, Disney Springs is Walt Disney World’s version of Universal Citywalk, though it is not located on-site at the Disney theme parks.

This gigantic themed retail, dining, and entertainment area is home to live entertainment, a luxury bowling alley, a dine-in movie theater, and even a balloon flight ride.

Likewise, when it comes to an adult night out, there are plenty of restaurants and bars to feed the inner foodie.

You can also get your shopping fill as Disney Springs houses many major retailers such as:

• Free People
• Anthropologie
• Coach
• Kate Spade
• And Lululemon

Visiting Disney Springs is absolutely one of the best Orlando activities for adults because of the high density of things to do within one general area.

12. Discovery Cove

If you want to feel like you’re heading to a tropical island resort, Discover Cove won’t disappoint.

One of the best places to hang out for a day under the sun, Discovery Cove is classified as a theme park but is actually a waterpark, aquarium, and all-inclusive day resort.

Visitors to the park can interact with a range of marine animals, including bottlenose dolphins, hand-feed exotic birds, as well as snorkel among sting rays and various species of tropical fish.

Your all-inclusive day includes breakfast, lunch, and bottomless snacks and beverages, which include beer and wine for guests who are 21+.

Additional all-inclusive amenities include:

• Lockers for your belongings
• Towels
• A wetsuit
• Snorkeling gear
• Animal-safe sunscreen

13. Lake Eola Park

A perfect place for a late-night stroll, Lake Eola Park has a huge water fountain in the center of the lake that lights up every night.

During the day, you can walk along the pathway and admire the swans or ride in the swan boats on the water.

Lake Eola also houses the Walt Disney Amphitheater, an outdoor venue for live entertainment.

14. Amway Center

A unique thing to do in Orlando for adults is to watch a home game at the Amway Center.

Home to NBA’s Orlando Magic, you can cheer for Orlando’s basketball team amongst nearly 19,000 attendees.

The arena is also home to the ECHL’s Orlando Solar Bears hockey team.

If there are no games during your visit, check the Amway events page for upcoming listings and dates of concerts and events frequently held at the arena.

Finally, adults will love the Sky Lounge here – a great bar offering sophisticated cocktails and unparalleled views of Downtown Orlando.

Sky Lounge is open on event days and on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of non-events days from 9 PM – 2 AM.

15. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Another one of the best things to do near downtown Orlando is to stop by the Harry P. Leu Gardens.

These botanical gardens are a great way to get away from the busy side of a vacation to Orlando and relax amongst nature.

Founded by Mr. Leu in the 1930s, the 50-acre garden is home to many exotic and rare plant species.

You find plenty of shade and beautiful plants tucked along pathways for you to enjoy and feel at peace during your vacation.

16. SAK Comedy Lab

When my husband and I are traveling together, we love going to a comedy club after having dinner and a few cocktails! It makes for the perfect date night. 

SAK Comedy Lab is one of the best improv comedy clubs we’ve ever been to, and it’s no joke that they take your suggestions and make up hilarious characters, scenes, and songs on the spot!

The 250-seat venue is the best of the best, as are the laughs that you’ll experience at either the 7:00 PM or 9:00 PM show.

Famous comedians such as Wayne Brady and writers from Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, Everybody Loves Raymond, and Parks and Recreation got their start here!

Additional planning tip: For dinner and a show, check out the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show at Wonderworks Orlando. 

17. Adult-Only Pools

While family-friendly pools are fine and dandy, it can be nice to find your piece of serenity at an adults-only pool. 

Take the opportunity to unwind, enjoy a quiet dip in the pool, and enjoy a poolside cocktail!

Many resorts will offer some kind of adults-only section, complete with luxury cabanas, lounge chairs, and pool-side service. Talk about paradise!

Top Orlando adult-only pools include:

• Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
• Hyatt Regency Orlando
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Oasis Pool
• The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

18. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

A trip to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is a fun way to spend the afternoon, visiting and learning about the large variety of marine life. 

Take a walk through the immersive Ocean Tunnel, pet anemones in the Interactive Touch Pools, and take a behind-the-scenes tour for the full experience!

19. Quantum Leap Winery

Calling all wine fans!

A trip to Quantum Leap Winery is practically mandatory on your Orlando vacation, beckoning you with a high-quality wine selection and welcoming tasting room. 

We recommend that you take a guided wine tour, learning about the winemaking process, before finishing with a decadent tasting flight. 

Things to Do Near Orlando for Adults

Along with being an epicenter of entertainment, Orlando is a gateway to endless options for additional things to do that are only a short drive away.

Here are our favorite things to do near Orlando for adults that are “worth it.”

20. Kennedy Space Center

Any space enthusiasts or history buffs should add the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to their Orlando vacation bucket list.

At Kennedy Space Center, you can:

• Visit the Astronauts Hall of Fame
• Walk through the Rocket Garden
• Watch the video of Apollo 8 in the Firing Room
• Participate in an astronaut encounter

Included with daily admission, visitors can also gain exclusive access to historic launch sites and operational spaceflight facilities on the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour.

Additional planning tip: The center isn’t easy to get to and will require a 50-minute drive and early arrival, but seeing such an iconic place is well worth the effort.

21. Old Town

Just 30 minutes south of Orlando, you’ll find the city of Kissimmee, Florida.

Kissimmee is another wonderful day trip for those looking to get out of the city.

One of the most popular places to visit in Kissimmee is Old Town – an entertainment district filled with over 70 unique shops, restaurants, bars, amusement park rides, and free weekly events, including America’s longest-running weekly car show and cruise held every Saturday.

Old Town is the recreation of a classic Florida town featuring historical architecture and distinctive storefronts – a nod and step back in time to celebrate when times were a little simpler.

22. Golf

If you’re a golf lover and are visiting Orlando – you’ve come to the right spot!

Not only is the city of Orlando home to 25 golf courses itself, but there are dozens of additional golf courses within a short driving distance of Orlando.

Check out Orlando Golf for a complete list of courses and golf deals and to make a tee time!

Where to Stay in Orlando

Where to stay in Orlando may be one of the most complicated choices when visiting there.

After all, there are literally so many places to stay in and around Orlando, whether it be at high-end Disney-themed resorts, local hotels, or vacation rental condos, homes, and townhomes.

Your final selection will be based on price, availability, and how far you’re willing to travel to each of the Orlando attractions that you’re interested in.

Distance from the Orlando International Airport should also be accounted for. 

The most popular places to stay in Orlando include:

• Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Orlando
• JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes
• Caribe Royale Orlando
• Walt Disney World Dolphin

We chose to stay at Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista for its ultra-affordable prices, awesome pool area, kids-eat-free policy, and central location.

Read our full review of Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista here.

FAQs: Things to Do in Orlando For Adults

Have more questions about the best things to do in Orlando for adults? We have the answers!

Here are the most common questions we get.

If we don’t answer your burning questions here, please leave them for us in the comments below.

Conclusion: Things to Do in Orlando For Adults

That’s it for some of the most fun things to do in Orlando for adults! We hope you found these tips useful in planning an amazing Orlando adults trip!

The entire Orlando area truly is such a joy to visit, thanks to all of its top attractions.

Without a doubt, you’ll have a great time exploring one of the Sunshine State’s best cities!

Want to read more posts filled with helpful tips and tricks for the Orlando area? Try these:

• Are There Beaches in Orlando? Here Are Your 23 Best Options!
• The 7 Best Rides at Universal Orlando + Tips for Visiting
• 9+ Fun Things to Do in Orlando the Whole Family Will Love
• The Ultimate 6-Day Orlando Itinerary for Families

Do you know of any other fun activities in Orlando for adults? I’d love to hear your recommendations!

Jen

*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*