Orlando: coolest under-the-radar spots for families

Thinking about your next family adventure? It’s easier than ever to fly direct to Orlando with Aer Lingus, bringing you to the heart of Florida’s best family experiences. But this isn’t just about roller-coasters and theme parks- Orlando has a whole world of hidden gems waiting to be explored, and we’re here to uncover them.

Beyond the well-known tourist attractions, Orlando is packed with incredible family-friendly experiences that deserve a spot on your itinerary. From nature preserves to quirky hands-on museums, unique animal encounters to interactive adventures, there’s so much there to entertain, inspire and engage kids of all ages. Whether you’re travelling with little ones or teens, this guide will introduce you to Florida’s coolest, lesser-known spots. So, let’s step off the beaten path and dive into Orlando’s best-kept secrets.

Explore Orlando’s secret green spaces

While theme parks take centre stage, Orlando is home to some stunning outdoor spaces perfect for family adventures. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve offers an easy escape into nature with kid-friendly trails, boardwalks, and a butterfly garden. Over at Lake Baldwin Park, little ones can enjoy some fun by the lake with plenty of space to run, splash, and even spot local wildlife.

For a more immersive experience, head to Mead Botanical Garden, a 47-acre oasis brimming with shaded trails, turtles, butterflies, and seasonal nature programmes.

Ornamental garden at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando

Hands-on learning and creativity

Orlando’s interactive museums offer fantastic hands-on experiences for curious young minds. Orlando Science Center is a must-visit, featuring four floors of interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a STEM-focused play area for younger children.

For something truly unique, check out Crayola Experience, where kids can create their own crayons, try drip art, and explore colour in a playful, immersive way. Over at Leu Gardens (a 50-acre botanical oasis) families can take part in seasonal scavenger hunts and storytelling events designed to spark the imagination.

Orlando at night

Hidden play areas and indoor fun

If you’re travelling with little ones, there’s always a point in the day when parents need to sit down and let their kids blow off steam. Monkey Joe’s is a hidden gem for little ones, packed with inflatable slides, obstacle courses, and plenty of space to burn off energy. Meanwhile, Millie Moo’s, a locally loved indoor play café, offers sensory play areas, soft play zones and space for parents to unwind.

On rainy days, families can escape to The Escape Effect, where special family-friendly escape rooms provide a fun challenge for all ages. Boardwalk Bowl is another great option, offering family-friendly bowling with bumper lanes, arcade games, plus mini bowling for younger kids.

Animal encounters off the beaten path

For wildlife lovers, Orlando is home to some incredible hidden gems where families can get up close with animals and learn about their habitats and conservation efforts. Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge is an incredible rescue centre where families can meet some of Florida’s native wildlife, including owls, deer, and tortoises.

Just outside the city, Wild Florida offers airboat rides through the Everglades, but it’s their lesser-known drive-through safari park that makes for an unforgettable family experience. Drive past free-roaming zebras, bison, and giraffes while learning about conservation efforts.

Quirky and unique family experiences

Looking for something truly out of the ordinary? Chocolate Kingdom offers a fascinating (and delicious) guided tour through the world of chocolate making, where kids can create their own custom chocolate bars.

Over in WonderWorks, an upside-down interactive museum, families can engage in wacky science experiments, challenge themselves in a ropes course, and even lie on a bed of nails. Meanwhile, Gatorland’s Screamin’ Gator Zip Line offers a unique combination of wildlife conservation and thrill-seeking, with zip lines soaring over alligator breeding marshes.

Cool experiences for teens

There’s plenty for older kids and teenagers to explore in Orlando, aside from the usual attractions. Dezerland Park Orlando is a massive indoor entertainment complex featuring kart racing, a ninja warrior course, and an extensive pinball arcade.

For thrill-seekers, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park offers high ropes courses and zip-lining adventures that challenge agility and bravery. Meanwhile, teens who love gaming can check out Player 1 Video Game Bar (before 8pm), a retro and modern gaming hub filled with arcade classics and console games.

For those who prefer a more relaxed but trendy experience, The Glass Knife is a stylish café known for its Instagram-worthy desserts, while ICON Park provides a cool place to hang out, with the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds, and a variety of shops and dining options.

Where to eat: family-friendly hidden gems

Finding a great meal that pleases both kids and adults can be a challenge, but Orlando is packed with incredible family-friendly dining spots.

For a relaxed breakfast, Se7en Bites is a local favourite serving up southern comfort food, with kid-approved treats like homemade biscuits and giant cinnamon rolls. If you’re after something quick but delicious, Lazy Moon Pizza serves up giant, shareable slices that kids love.

For a fun, interactive meal, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium in CityWalk offers a steampunk-inspired dining experience complete with over-the-top milkshakes. Boxi Park in Lake Nona is another great choice, featuring outdoor seating, live music, and a range of food trucks catering to all tastes.

If the kids are adventurous eaters, Hunger Street Tacos in the Greater Orlando area serves some of the region’s best authentic tacos.

We care about putting family first

Flying with Aer Lingus means families are well taken care of from the moment they check in. Our Family First approach ensures a stress-free experience with priority boarding, complimentary carry-on for essential baby gear, and pre-boarding for families with young children. Infants under two can travel on a parent’s lap with a reduced fare, while parents can bring a collapsible buggy and car seat free of charge.

Older kids can enjoy a range of in-flight entertainment, including family-friendly movies, games, and TV shows. Our in-flight meal options include kid-friendly choices and our crew is always on hand to help with any special requests. Aer Lingus makes flying with children a breeze, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for families heading to Orlando.

Ready to go?

Getting to Orlando has never been easier for families travelling from Ireland. Aer Lingus’ direct flights from Dublin offer a seamless and comfortable journey, complete with U.S. Preclearance, top-notch service, family-friendly facilities, and affordable connections for anyone travelling from Britain or Europe.

Orlando is the ultimate family destination, packed with unforgettable experiences beyond the usual attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, interactive learning, unique wildlife encounters, or chilled out play spaces, there’s something for every family to discover.

Why not make the journey with Aer Lingus and unlock a whole new side of Orlando?