10 Must-Try Things to Do in Orlando This Summer (2025 Guide)

Orlando is one of America's top vacation spots, packed with endless events and attractions throughout the year. Summer months bring extra magic to the Central Florida area, and the theme parks and natural sites make it a perfect destination for families and adventure seekers alike. This detailed guide will help you find Orlando's best activities, newest attractions, and hidden gems.

 

1. Explore Walt Disney World's Newest Attractions for Summer 2025

Disney World plans to make summer 2025 special with new experiences that make it a perfect time to visit Orlando, Florida. The park will add brand-new stage shows and an exciting nighttime parade.

 

Disney's Latest Ride Openings

Summer 2025 brings exciting additions to Disney's parks. Hollywood Studios will debut two new stage shows on May 27. "Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After" lets infamous characters like Cruella de Vil and Maleficent tell their side of the story. "The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure" brings Ariel's story to life with stunning sets and advanced effects. Magic Kingdom will light up later in summer with "Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away," the park's first nighttime parade in almost 10 years. Test Track at EPCOT will also return with a new look in late summer 2025.

 

Summer-Exclusive Disney Events

Disney creates unique experiences for families with young kids beyond its regular attractions. Magic Kingdom's Storybook Circus and Tomorrowland will feature special kid zones with Stitch from May 27 through September 1, 2025. EPCOT's CommuniCore Hall becomes Goofy's ultimate game party and play space. Disney's Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, and Wilderness Lodge guests can enjoy Disney-themed activities and scheduled character visits.

 

Best Times to Visit Disney in Summer

Thoughtful planning helps you avoid peak crowds at Disney World during summer. Late August gets quieter as Florida schools start mid-month. September offers some of the year's lowest prices. With its impressive fireworks, July sees the biggest crowds, especially around July 4. Florida's summer weather brings heat and quick afternoon showers that clear up fast.

 

2. Cool Off at Orlando's Premier Water Parks

Central Florida's summer is a favorite among visitors, thanks to its world-class water parks that offer a refreshing alternative to traditional theme parks during the hot season. Orlando's water parks captivate guests with thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and exciting water activities, making them the ultimate destination for fun and relaxation in the summer heat.

 

Typhoon Lagoon

Disney's water parks each have their own unique charm. Typhoon Lagoon, which opens its gates on May 1, 2025, creates a tropical paradise with North America's biggest wave pool, which churns out 6-foot waves.

 

Volcano Bay's Immersive Experiences

Universal's Volcano Bay has changed the game with its TapuTapu wearable technology. This smart wristband lets you skip the usual waiting lines through a Virtual Line system. You just tap at rides, enjoy the park, and wait for your wristband to buzz.

 

Aquatica's Marine Life Encounters

Aquatica blends water slides with amazing sealife experiences. During their adventures, guests slide past Commerson's dolphins, leopard sharks, and other sea creatures. The park lets families swim with Cownose stingrays, where they can touch, feed, and watch these gentle creatures up close. Sandy beaches, heart-pumping rides, and close encounters with marine life distinguish Aquatica from other Orlando water parks.

 

3. Discover Orlando's Natural Springs and Outdoor Adventures

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando has a natural side with crystal-clear springs and wilderness areas that make great alternatives for your summer plans. When temperatures rise, natural outdoor experiences are some of the most rewarding activities in Orlando, Florida.

 

Crystal Clear Springs Near Orlando

Wekiwa Springs State Park sits just 35 minutes north of downtown. The azure waters stay at a cool 72 degrees throughout the year. This natural oasis is Orange County's oldest tourist attraction and has an available ramp and chair lift that makes spring entry easier. Rock Springs Run State Reserve lets you float down a natural lazy river in 68-degree waters at Kelly Park. Manatee lovers will find Blue Spring State Park to be one of Florida's prime spots where these gentle giants gather during winter.

 

Kayaking and Canoeing Hotspots

Florida's Wekiva River is one of only two National Wild and Scenic Rivers. You can see untamed wilderness that looks just as it did centuries ago. Blackwater Creek is a hidden gem with dark water that creates perfect reflections of overhead branches. You might spot otters and deer here, but few other visitors. Silver Springs near Ocala features glass-bottom boat tours with fantastic wildlife viewing—you can see monkeys, manatees, alligators, and various bird species in one trip.

 

Hiking Trails and Nature Preserves

Disney Wilderness Preserve carries on Walt Disney's environmental legacy. Four trails stretch from half a mile to 3.6 miles, showcasing Florida scrub-jay habitat and Everglades headwaters. Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trail runs through a mix of lush forests and scenic wetlands about 30 minutes from Orlando. Wekiwa Springs State Park features a 13.5-mile trail with primitive campsites along Rock Springs Run. The trail passes through river swamps and hardwood hammock ecosystems.

 

4. Visit SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove

Animal lovers will find the most memorable experiences at SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove through their unmatched animal encounters during the summer of 2025.

 

SeaWorld's Summer Shows and Events

SeaWorld's Summer Spectacular "Fiery Nights" lights up the park from May 23 through September 1, 2025. The event showcases brilliant fireworks and special entertainment during the park's 60th Anniversary celebrations. Viva La Musica fills the park throughout June, while the new Bands, Brew & BBQ event takes over in July and August. The atmosphere comes alive at night with world-class DJs and performers leading up to "Ignite."

 

Swim with Dolphins at Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove's signature experience welcomes you into a crystal-clear lagoon for a personal dolphin encounter. Expert animal care specialists share educational insights during this 30-minute interaction before you swim alongside these magnificent creatures. Participants must meet specific requirements. Children need to be at least 6 years old and 42 inches tall. Kids between 6-12 years must have a participating adult with them.

Professional photographers will capture your dolphin moments, but personal cameras aren't allowed during encounters.

 

5. Enjoy Orlando's Indoor Attractions to Beat the Heat

Orlando has many incredible indoor attractions that mix fun with learning, making them the perfect places to visit during the hottest months.

 

WonderWorks and Museum of Illusions

WonderWorks blends education and entertainment inside a unique upside-down building on International Drive. This 28,000-square-foot attraction packs more than 100 hands-on exhibits that test your mind and get you thinking.

 

Right nearby, the Museum of Illusions at ICON Park will mess with your mind through 50+ interactive illusions rooted in math, science, and psychology. The museum's mix of optical, photographic, and interactive illusions creates fantastic experiences.

 

Orlando Science Center's Summer Exhibits

The Orlando Science Center brings science to life with exhibits that range from nature to cutting-edge simulation tech. "Top Secret: License to Spy" lets visitors step into a spy's shoes and learn about espionage science. The "Life" exhibit dives into animals, humans and conservation with real animal encounters. "KidsTown" gives little ones aged 0-7 space to splash, climb, and make new discoveries.

 

ICON Park's Air-Conditioned Experiences

ICON Park's main attraction, The Wheel (formerly The Orlando Eye), shows off the city's views from capsules 400 feet up. Each pod has stability control and 64,000 LEDs that light up the sky. On top of that, the park's Max Action Arena packs 8,000 square feet of indoor fun with ax throwing, virtual zombie fights, and tricky escape rooms.

 

Escape Rooms and Indoor Entertainment Centers

Orlando's escape rooms are a great way to escape the sun. The Escape Game Orlando on International Drive has seven unique adventures, including their latest ocean-themed room, "The Depths". Escapology takes a different approach with private rooms where your team has 60 minutes to crack the puzzles—no strangers involved.

 

6. Take a Day Trip to Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center sits just an hour's drive east of Orlando. This iconic NASA facility gives visitors a captivating look into space exploration and stands out among educational activities in Orlando, Florida. Guests can see actual spacecraft and feel the excitement of space travel through hands-on exhibits.

 

Rocket Launch Viewing Opportunities

A live rocket launch creates memories that last forever. The center's viewing spots are the closest public locations, sometimes just miles from the launch pads. Visitors can choose from basic admission viewing to special Launch Transportation Tickets. Major events offer detailed launch packages. With over 100 launches set for 2025, chances of seeing one are high.

 

7. Explore International Drive's Entertainment District

International Drive is Orlando's entertainment hub, with attractions that make it a destination worth exploring on its own. This lively district has countless options for evening entertainment and daytime adventures, among the most available things to do in Orlando, Florida.

 

ICON Park's Observation Wheel and Attractions

The Orlando Eye dominates ICON Park as a magnificent 400-foot-tall observation wheel that offers stunning 360-degree views of Orlando's skyline. Visitors enjoy 20-minute rides in air-conditioned capsules with exceptional views of downtown Orlando and nearby theme parks. The wheel's 64,000 color-changing LEDs light up the night sky with spectacular shows you can see from across the city.

 

ICON Park has several other attractions around the wheel:

• SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium with Florida's only 360° ocean tunnel
• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum showcasing celebrities and superheroes
• Museum of Illusions with over 50 mind-bending exhibits

 

I-Drive's Best Dining Experiences

International Drive's culinary scene matches its diverse attractions. You'll find everything from authentic Mexican at Kavas and Uncle Julio's to Mediterranean flavors at Helena Modern Riviera. Cuba Libre Restaurant brings Old Havana's courtyard atmosphere to life. Steak lovers can head to Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse or Charley's Steakhouse, which ranks among America's top ten.

 

Shopping at Orlando International Premium Outlets

Just three miles from Universal Studios, Orlando International Premium Outlets features over 180 designer and name-brand stores with daily savings of 25%-65%. This shopping haven has popular brands like H&M, Nike, Adidas, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Under Armor.

 

8. Experience Orlando's Thrilling Outdoor Adventures

Adventure seekers looking for outdoor thrills will find exciting activities in Orlando's wilderness that showcase Florida's natural beauty. These outdoor adventures provide a refreshing alternative to the area's theme parks and are must-try experiences for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush.

 

Airboat Rides Through Florida Everglades

High-speed airboats give you unmatched access to the pristine headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Wild Florida's expert captains direct their boats through tall grasses and point out local wildlife like alligators, eagles, and native birds. The U.S. Coast Guard-approved boats come equipped with life preservers and communication systems.

 

Zip Lining and Aerial Adventures

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park tests your courage with four courses that get progressively harder as you go through natural pine forests. Each course takes you higher—reaching up to 50 feet above ground—with challenges from Tarzan ropes to suspended skateboards. The Screamin' Gator Zip Line at Gatorland sends thrill-seekers flying at 30 mph over 130 alligators in the breeding marsh below. Nona Adventure Park caters to families with special junior courses built for children ages 3-8.

 

Hot Air Balloon Rides Over Orlando

Early morning balloon flights give you stunning views of Orlando from above. These peaceful trips start an hour before sunrise, letting you watch the dawn break from heights up to 3,000 feet. Most companies celebrate your landing with a traditional champagne toast. Small balloons that carry 4-6 passengers create a more intimate experience than larger commercial flights.

 

Off-Road ATV Experiences

Revolution Off-road's 230-acre property lets you explore different types of terrain in guided self-drive adventures. Their unique "Mucky Duck" eight-wheeled vehicle can handle both land and water. Elite ATV Riding Orlando runs one- and two-hour tours daily, including safety gear. Riders must be 18 or older and have a valid driver's license, but no previous experience is needed.

 

9. Attend Orlando's Summer Festivals and Events

Summer 2025 brings an exciting lineup of festivals to Orlando. From food festivals to major sporting events, these seasonal celebrations add new excitement to Orlando, Florida's attractions.

 

Food and Wine Celebrations

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival lights the park from July through November. Visitors can explore over 25 Global Marketplaces while enjoying the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. SeaWorld's Bands, Brew & BBQ event runs from July 5 to August 24. Beer enthusiasts can sample over 100 craft beers from Florida breweries and other domestic favorites. Local food lovers look forward to visiting Orlando's Magical Dining from late August through early October. Over 100 of Orlando's top restaurants serve $40 prix-fixe menus during this period.

 

Summer Concert Series

Music fills the air with unforgettable performances that reshape the scene of Orlando's entertainment. The Garden Rocks Concert Series at EPCOT runs from March 5 to June 2. Internationally known artists perform on weekends, while talented local acts take the stage on weekdays. SeaWorld's Summer Spectacular Concert Series brings top Pop and Classic Rock artists to the air-conditioned Nautilus Theater. Shows run every Saturday and Sunday at 6 pm from July 8 to August 6.

 

Cultural Festivals

Central Florida's cultural diversity shines at FusionFest during Thanksgiving weekend (November 29-30). This free event at Seneff Arts Plaza features over 100 cultural performances, international food, and hands-on activities.

 

Sporting Events and Tournaments

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup marks a significant moment for Orlando sports. Matches take place at Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium. Orlando is the only city hosting tournament matches in multiple venues, strengthening its position as the country's leading sports event destination. The Special Olympics Florida Summer Games unite athletes on May 16-17. Participants compete in cycling, track and field, volleyball, soccer, and bocce ball.

 

10. Enjoy Free and Budget-Friendly Activities in Orlando

Orlando welcomes budget-conscious visitors with plenty of wallet-friendly options. Travelers can find many free activities without compromising on fun.

 

Lake Eola Park and Downtown Orlando

Lake Eola Park is Orlando's urban oasis at 512 East Washington Street. A scenic 0.9-mile paved walking path circles the lake and creates perfect spots to exercise or take peaceful walks. Visitors can rent iconic swan-shaped paddleboats to see downtown's skyline from the water or relax in the shade while watching the resident swans. The Orlando Farmers Market brings the park to life every Sunday with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

 

Free Museum Days and Community Events

Thoughtful planning helps stretch your cultural budget effectively. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch customers get free entry to select museums during the first weekend monthly through the Museums On Us program. The Orlando Museum of Art, Mennello Museum, and Orlando Science Center participate in this program. The Orlando Museum of Art welcomes visitors free of charge, with extended hours on the third Thursday of every month, through their Access for All program.

 

Public Splash Pads and Playgrounds

Orlando's public splash pads help families beat the heat without spending money. Orange County offers several free water play areas at Barnett Park, Bithlo Community Park, and Dr. Phillips Community Park. Winter Garden's downtown area features a splash pad that runs daily from 9 am to 9 pm Longwood's Reiter Park welcomes water enthusiasts Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. These water zones make perfect spots to cool off during hot summer days.

 

Self-Guided Walking Tours

Self-guided tours bring the city's character and history to life. Free guided tours of the Downtown Historic District start at 9:30 am every first Friday from October through May. The VoiceMap app lets you experience the Historical Highlights Walking Tour, a one-hour audio journey past Church Street Station and other landmarks. Art enthusiasts can find nine public sculptures on the SEE Art Walking Tour, with six pieces scattered throughout Lake Eola Park.

 

Conclusion

Orlando is the ultimate summer destination in 2025, offering unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Dive into thrilling adventures at Walt Disney World's newest attractions, cool off at Typhoon Lagoon's iconic wave pool, or explore the serene beauty of Florida's natural springs. Your perfect summer escape awaits. Book your dream vacation today at VacationCentralFlorida.com for the best deals on family-friendly accommodations near Florida's top theme parks. Discover cozy condos, townhomes, and vacation houses in premier communities like Windsor Hills Resort, Encantada, and Championsgate—all featuring heated private or resort-style pools. We make your Disney World adventure magical with unbeatable prices and exceptional amenities.