Orlando with Kids: 10 Most Fun Things to Do The Whole Family Will Enjoy

If your pocket won’t stretch to Disney World, then let Disney Springs bring you that magical feeling for free. A whole playground of shops, restaurants and entertainment dotted around the park mean the whole family will be pleased – the children especially, thanks to oodles of kid-friendly activities. Make sure you check out the Lego store complete with play areas and life-size Lego statues. Recommended by local insider Korri Lacalamita

Make memories at Lake Eola Park and enjoy a ride on the lake in a swan boat. While aboard, spot the real-life birds gliding on the water. No need to book, just head to the little dock and choose your non-feathered friend for your excursion. The kids will love birdwatching and as rentals only run for half an hour, you won’t get too tired out. It’s best to find free parking along Eola Drive. Recommended by local insider Korri Lacalamita

Central Florida Zoo is home to more than 100 different species from the animal kingdom and gives you and your offspring the chance to see animals from far and wide. Experiences run throughout the day so get involved with zookeeper talks and feeding time. Learn all about wildlife conservation while feeding a giraffe a leafy lunch. Recommended by local insider Korri Lacalamita

Learn all about science and technology away from the school desk at this fun and interactive center in Orlando. The kids are guaranteed to leave armed with new knowledge from the Kinetic Zone, DinoDigs and NatureWorks. KidsTown is specially designed for younger ones, with creative play areas and teamwork activities. Recommended by local insider Korri Lacalamita

Leg warmers and ponytails are not required, but will definitely get you into the spirit of things at this ’80s skate ring. Fun and family-friendly, the atmosphere at Semoran Skateway is energetic to say the least. Beginners are welcome to learn the ropes during quieter times. Check the schedule as sometimes there are evening sessions with a DJ blasting out tunes to provide your skate soundtrack. Recommended by local insider Korri Lacalamita

Find classic American fun at the entertainment district of Old Town. The streets come alive on a Friday and Saturday night with parades of classic vintage cars from the ’60s onwards. Throughout the week you can explore the recreation of a classic Florida town with its vintage storefronts and old-school architecture. Located minutes from Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and International Drive, it is yet another hit on the list of Sunshine State greats. Recommended by local insider Katie Davis

Ever wondered what it was like to experience a real-life, medieval joust? Enter the Orlando castle as a guest of the queen and marvel as the knights go head to head in a climactic battle. Cheer on your knight during this unique dinner and theater event that’s fun for all. A medieval feast is served after the show, with dramatic lighting and a musical score to add to the immersive event. Recommended by local insider Katie Davis

Named after the cypress trees that line its banks, Shingle Creek is a lush spot for you and your family to immerse yourselves in nature. Rent kayaks from the Paddling Center and set off on your very own adventure, or book a tour with an expert. Spot wildlife as you glide the Everglades waterways with turtles, wading birds and alligators calling it home. Recommended by local insider Katie Davis

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium isn’t your typical aquarium. It is a marine hospital that cares for turtles, otters, sharks, birds and dolphins. The animals that are nursed back to full health are released into the ocean and those that need long-term care live on-site permanently and you can visit them. Find out all about Winter, a permanent resident and the dolphin that inspired the feature film Dolphin Tale (2011). Recommended by local insider Katie Davis

Weave through various mission zones as you explore the US space program. Perfect for adventurers small and large, you will learn all about the history of humans in space. Boggle your mind by viewing a genuine spaceship in real life. Plan your trip on the right day to witness a launch at the Kennedy Space Center. Be sure to stop off at the gift shop for a space food souvenir – we recommend the freeze-dried ice cream sandwich. Recommended by local insider Katie Davis