Half-Day Fun in Orlando: The Best Parks and Attractions for a Short Visit!
Half-Day Fun in Orlando: The Best Parks and Attractions for a Short Visit!
Whether you have a layover, are finishing up a business trip, or want a quick getaway, there are plenty of things to do in Orlando in just a few hours. From world-renowned theme parks to hidden gems, we’ve created this guide to ensure you make the most of the time you have left in Orlando during your visit.
From bungee jumping in Orlando to wandering through Central Florida farmers markets, just a few hours can feel like so much more while exploring the best of the best that the city has to offer.
The Top 5 Best Half-Day Theme Parks
But if you have your heart set on the theme parks, don’t worry; we have a few that you can conquer in just a handful of hours. There are many theme park attractions you can enjoy without spending all day waiting in long lines!
Even visiting theme parks, like Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Universal’s Volcano Bay, can offer a thrilling time in just four or five hours. Let’s take a look, shall we?
1 | Disney’s Hollywood Studios | Everyone always talks about Disney World, and we understand why! But a trip to Disney can take a whole day, usually two or three.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios, on the other hand, is a great theme park destination for anyone with limited time in Orlando.
Shrink down to the size of a toy in Toy Story Land or step into the incredible Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with a life-sized model of the Millennium Falcon.
You can feel like you’re the star of your own Disney movie when you visit Hollywood Studios, and it’s a great half-day trip that can only take three or four hours.
Sample Itinerary:
If you’re short on time but want to make the most of your visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, here’s a sample itinerary for a four-hour day at the park:
Hour 1: Start with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
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Rise of the Resistance: Head straight to this highly popular ride to experience one of the most immersive attractions at Disney. The queue can get long, so it's best to prioritize this.
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Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run: Afterward, take a ride in the Millennium Falcon! It’s an exciting, interactive adventure that puts you in control of the iconic spaceship.
Hour 2: Savor a snack and explore Toy Story Land
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Snack Break: Grab a quick snack at one of the food stands, like a giant pretzel or a refreshing drink.
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Slinky Dog Dash: Head over to Toy Story Land for a fun roller coaster experience on Slinky Dog Dash, one of the park’s best thrills.
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Alien Swirling Saucers: For something gentler, hop on this fun, spinning ride for a whimsical experience.
Hour 3: Watch a Show
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Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!: Catch this thrilling live show filled with stunts, explosions, and action-packed sequences. It’s a great way to rest while enjoying some Disney magic.
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Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage: If you’re looking for something more musical, don’t miss this classic show featuring beloved songs from the animated movie.
Hour 4: Enjoy Sunset Boulevard and the Tower of Terror
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The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: No visit to Hollywood Studios is complete without this iconic drop ride. It’s thrilling and offers some great views of the park!
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Hollywood Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant: End your visit with a delicious lunch or dinner at this unique restaurant, where you dine inside a 1950s drive-in theater.
WHERE: Bay Lake, FL 34747 | WHO: (407) 939-5277
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2 | Disney’s Animal Kingdom | If you want to live on the wild side, step into Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
There are amazing animal exhibits and beautiful nature-themed attractions that can send you coasting down a river and flying across the Forbidden Mountain on a roller coaster!
Kids and grown-ups also delight in the World of Pandora and seeing animals from around the world in the Asia and Africa-themed lands.
Sample Itinerary:
For a quick, yet fulfilling, visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, here’s a sample four-hour itinerary that covers the park’s top highlights:
Hour 1: Pandora – The World of Avatar
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Avatar Flight of Passage: Start your adventure with this iconic 3D flight simulation. Soar over Pandora on the back of a banshee for an unforgettable experience.
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Na’vi River Journey: Follow up with this serene boat ride through the bioluminescent rainforest of Pandora, offering a calming contrast to the thrill of Flight of Passage.
Hour 2: Kilimanjaro Safaris & Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
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Kilimanjaro Safaris: Embark on a wild ride through the African savanna, where you’ll encounter majestic animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitats.
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Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: After your safari, explore this walking trail where you can see gorillas, hippos, and exotic birds, all set in a lush, tropical environment.
Hour 3: Expedition Everest & Maharajah Jungle Trek
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Expedition Everest: Take on this thrilling roller coaster through the Himalayan mountains, complete with high-speed twists and a terrifying Yeti encounter!
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Maharajah Jungle Trek: Discover more exotic animals as you stroll through this Southeast Asian-inspired walking trail, home to tigers, birds, and even Komodo dragons.
Hour 4: Festival of the Lion King & Tree of Life Awakenings
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Festival of the Lion King: End your visit with this spectacular Broadway-style show, featuring acrobats, vibrant costumes, and the unforgettable music of The Lion King.
WHERE: Bay Lake, FL 34747 | WHO: (407) 939-5277
3 | Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Park | If you’re someone who enjoys being in tropical atmospheres, you’ll feel right at home at Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Park!
This one-of-a-kind water park combines exciting attractions and engaging activities with relaxation, making it a must-visit location for visitors.
If you’re looking to spend some time relaxing during your half-day, the Waturi Beach wave pool is the perfect spot to rest.
You can also rent out private cabanas, so you don’t have to worry about being disturbed by the hustle and bustle of the park.
Sample Itinerary:
Here’s a four-hour itinerary to make the most of your time at Universal’s Volcano Bay:
Hour 1: Start with the Krakatau Aqua Coaster
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Krakatau Aqua Coaster: Kick off your visit with this thrilling water coaster that takes you through the heart of the park’s volcano, with high-speed drops and twists. It’s a great way to jumpstart your day!
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Waturi Beach: After your coaster experience, take a moment to relax on the sandy beach area in front of the massive Krakatau volcano. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the tropical vibe.
Hour 2: Explore the Lazy River & Taniwha Tubes
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TeAwa The Fearless River: For a bit of adventure, take a ride on this thrilling, fast-moving lazy river that’s perfect for those seeking a bit more excitement than your typical lazy river.
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Taniwha Tubes: Hop on these spinning tube slides for a fun ride that sends you whirling down a winding path. It's a great, thrilling alternative to a relaxing float.
Hour 3: Water Slides & The Reef
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Ko’okiri Body Plunge: If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, take the plunge on this near-vertical drop slide that sends you through a lava tube!
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The Reef: After the thrills, cool off in this large, relaxing pool. The clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery, make it a great spot to chill and take a break from the slides.
Hour 4: Relax at Waturi Beach & Explore the Park’s Dining
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Waturi Beach (Again): Spend the final moments of your day back at Waturi Beach. Enjoy the warm sun and the tranquil waves while you soak up the tropical atmosphere.
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Dining at Volcano Bay: Before you leave, grab a bite to eat at one of the park’s unique dining spots, such as the Kohola Reef Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious tropical-inspired meals and snacks.
WHERE: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
4 | SeaWorld Orlando | You can’t forget your half-day trip to SeaWorld! From adorable sea lions and playful dolphins to thrilling rides like the Mako roller coaster, this is a go-to spot for families who want a nice mix of excitement and education.
Plus, SeaWorld just isn’t as popular as its competitors, Disney and Universal, so you’ll probably get more done in just a few hours than at the other theme parks nearby.
SeaWorld also has a lot of good food festivals throughout the year that can entertain you if the lines do get long.
Sample Itinerary:
Here’s an updated four-hour itinerary for SeaWorld Orlando, with Pipeline, the stand-up coaster, added in place of waterfront dining:
Hour 1: Start with Mako & Dolphin Days
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Mako: Begin your day with Mako, the tallest, fastest, and longest coaster in Orlando. This high-speed thrill ride with intense drops and airtime is the perfect way to start your adventure.
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Dolphin Days: After Mako, head to Dolphin Days, where you’ll witness an amazing live show featuring dolphins performing incredible tricks, all while educating guests about marine conservation.
Hour 2: Explore Shark Encounter & Penguin Trek
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Shark Encounter: Dive deep into the ocean as you walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other sea creatures. It’s a thrilling and immersive experience you won’t forget.
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Penguin Trek: Visit Penguin Trek next, where you can see penguins up close in their icy habitat. It’s a cool and unique way to observe these fascinating creatures in action.
Hour 3: Sea Lion & Otter Spotlight & Kraken
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Sea Lion & Otter Spotlight: Enjoy a fun and interactive performance with sea lions and otters, where they perform a variety of tricks and showcase their playful personalities.
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Kraken: Next, take on Kraken, one of SeaWorld’s most iconic roller coasters. With its floorless design and thrilling loops, Kraken is sure to get your heart racing.
Hour 4: Pipeline & Journey to Atlantis
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Pipeline: For your final thrill, ride Pipeline, SeaWorld’s stand-up coaster. Feel the wind in your hair and experience the twists and drops from a completely different perspective—standing up! It’s a unique and exhilarating ride to end your visit.
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Journey to Atlantis: Finish your day with Journey to Atlantis, a water coaster filled with thrilling drops and plenty of splashy moments, making it a fun way to cool off before you leave.
WHERE: 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821 | WHO: (407) 545-5550
5 | FunSpot America Orlando | FunSpot America in Orlando is the perfect destination for a half-day of thrills, offering a mix of high-energy rides and family-friendly fun.
With its unique collection of roller coasters, go-kart tracks, and attractions like the SkyCoaster and Sling Shot, you can easily pack an action-packed experience into just four or five hours without the need to spend an entire day at the park.
Sample Itinerary:
Here’s an updated four-hour itinerary for FunSpot America Orlando, including coasters, go-kart racing, and a giant Ferris Wheel:
Hour 1: Start with the White Lightning & Go-Karts
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White Lightning: Begin your adventure with White Lightning, Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster. Feel the thrill of sharp turns, drops, and airtime as you zip around this fast-paced ride.
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Go-Kart Racing: After your coaster ride, race your friends or family on one of FunSpot’s Go-Kart tracks. Choose between the classic single-seaters or take a spin in the two-seater for some fun, competitive racing.
Hour 2: Ride the SkyCoaster & The Sling Shot
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SkyCoaster: For a heart-pounding experience, head to the SkyCoaster, where you'll be launched 250 feet into the air at incredible speeds. It’s one of the most intense experiences you can have in Orlando.
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The Sling Shot: Afterward, head over to The Sling Shot for an extreme vertical launch. This ride shoots you up 400 feet before dropping you back down, offering incredible views and thrills.
Hour 3: Enjoy the Crazy Cars & Paratrooper
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Crazy Cars: Take a spin on Crazy Cars, a fun, family-friendly ride where you can drive your own car and navigate through a fun and whimsical track. It’s perfect for all ages.
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Paratrooper: For a classic amusement ride experience, hop on the Paratrooper, where you’ll feel the thrill of flying up and down as you swing through the air, offering both views and excitement.
Hour 4: Chill Out on the Ferris Wheel & Carousel
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Ferris Wheel: Wind down your visit with a peaceful ride on the Ferris Wheel. This towering ride offers spectacular views of the park and International Drive, making it the perfect way to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
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Carousel: Finally, take a nostalgic ride on the classic Carousel, ideal for all ages. It’s a fun, gentle ride that ends your day on a whimsical note.
WHERE: 5700 Fun Spot Wy, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-3867
Tips for Maximizing a Half-Day Visit at the Parks
Now that we know what to do at Orlando’s theme parks for a few hours, let’s talk about making the most out of your half-day adventure.
These tips will help you plan a half-day at the parks without stressing over time constraints.
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Schedule Your Meals: Save money by eating at your hotel or planning your meal at the park. You can also pack your own food, but check each park’s restrictions—typically no glass or large coolers.
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Use Theme Park Apps: Download free apps to view maps, check wait times, and mobile order food. Apps like My Disney Experience and Universal’s app also provide pay-to-ride options and other useful features.
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Use Single Rider Lines When Available: These lines reduce wait times by filling empty seats. While not ideal for groups, they’re great for maximizing rides in a short visit. Read more about how to skip long lines at theme parks with our insider travel tips and tricks!
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Arrive Early: Getting to the park 30-60 minutes before opening increases your chances of riding top attractions multiple times. Aim for “rope drop” when rides officially open to the public.
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Buy Tickets in Advance: Avoid wasting time in ticket lines and save money by purchasing tickets early. Check official websites and apps for the best deals.
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Have a Plan: A half-day visit means prioritizing your must-dos. List your top three attractions and focus on them—anything you miss is just another reason to return to Orlando!
The Top 15 Attractions to Do in a Half-Day That Aren’t Theme Parks
Orlando may be known for its world-famous theme parks, but there’s plenty to see and do beyond the roller coasters.
Whether you have just a few hours to explore or want a break from the crowds, these top 15 attractions offer adventure, culture, and relaxation—no park ticket required!
1 | SEA LIFE Aquarium | The SEA LIFE Aquarium is filled with awesome indoor activities like a 360-degree ocean tunnel, a Jelly Wall, interactive touch exhibits, and a behind-the-scenes tour.
Whether you have a fascination for axolotls, can’t get enough of sharks, or just want to admire beautiful fish from around the world, this is a wonderful way to spend a half-day in Orlando.
WHERE: 8449 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (855) 450-0680
2 | Madame Tussauds | Madame Tussauds is a fun family attraction filled with life-size replicas of celebrities, historical figures, and famous movie characters.
Snap a selfie with Michael Jackson or take an ogre-dorable family photo with Shrek and Fiona!
From sitting in the Oval Office to posing with an astronaut, you can take your imagination to new heights at this fun wax-figure museum.
WHERE: 8387 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (855) 450-0581
3 | The Orlando Eye | The Orlando Eye, also known as The Wheel, is at the center of Orlando’s acclaimed ICON Park.
Ride the Orlando Eye to get great views of the city, then spend your day exploring the local shops or grabbing a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
WHERE: 8449 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (321) 209-9679
4 | Orlando Science Center | Put on your thinking cap and discover scientific wonders at Orlando Science Center!
If you have a half-day with kids, this attraction is absolutely perfect for keeping them entertained.
Interactive exhibits that encourage you to experience science up close and personal make for an awesome afternoon.
Learn about dinosaurs, our solar system, the future of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and more!
WHERE: 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 514-2000
5 | WonderWorks | WonderWorks is a fun, interactive museum where you can play around with neat science-themed exhibits and explore the modern world through fun games and attractions.
Take on the universe in the space zone, explore the weather zone, or admire fine art in the art gallery.
This family-friendly attraction is a great half-day trip for groups with kids. They’ll have a blast and learn a lot along the way!
WHERE: 9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 351-8800
6 | Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition | Revisit history at The TITANIC Experience, where you can immerse yourself in the story of the world’s most famous shipwreck.
Character performances and true-to-life replicas of rooms will help you uncover a hidden side to this historical event.
It takes about an hour and a half to go through the museum, making it the perfect stop on an Orlando half-day itinerary.
WHERE: 7324 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 248-1166
7 | Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens | The gorgeous Central Zoo and Botanical Gardens offer a relaxing, rejuvenating trip as you enjoy your half-day in the city.
You can simply admire the beauty of the animals or take some time to appreciate the gorgeous greenery and flora in the gardens.
Solo travelers, couples, and families all love this zoo, and it’s a great attraction if you want something outdoors with no long lines to worry about.
WHERE: 3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771 | WHO: (407) 323-4450
8 | Harry P. Leu Gardens | Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Harry P. Leu Gardens, a stunning 50-acre botanical oasis in the heart of Orlando.
Wander through vibrant floral displays, lush greenery, and peaceful walking paths that showcase a variety of plants and flowers throughout the year. From the tranquil rose garden to the enchanting butterfly garden, each corner offers a unique experience.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a serene escape, Leu Gardens provides the perfect setting to relax and connect with nature in the middle of the city.
WHERE: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 246-2620
9 | Arcade Monsters | Get ready for an epic gaming adventure at Arcade Monsters on International Drive in Orlando! With an incredible collection of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and modern video games, it’s the perfect spot to relive your childhood or discover new favorites.
Challenge your friends to a competitive round of air hockey, enjoy a few rounds of classic Pac-Man, or test your skills in one of the many retro gaming stations.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, Arcade Monsters offers hours of non-stop fun and excitement for everyone! It’s one of the best arcades in Orlando!
WHERE: 6362 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (888) 652-5055
10 | Disney Springs | Disney Springs is the ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Orlando!
With its vibrant atmosphere, you can browse unique shops, indulge in world-class dining, and catch live performances or enjoy exciting events. Whether you're enjoying a meal at The Boathouse, grabbing a sweet treat at Ghirardelli, or watching a show at the House of Blues,
Disney Springs offers something for everyone. It's the perfect place to spend your day or evening, filled with fun, food, and unforgettable experiences!
WHERE: 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 | WHO: (407) 939-5277
11 | Lake Eola Park | Escape the hustle and bustle at Lake Eola Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Orlando! Stroll along scenic paths, relax by the serene lake, or rent a swan-shaped paddle boat for a unique experience on the water.
With beautiful views of Downtown Orlando, a charming outdoor amphitheater, and lush green spaces, Lake Eola Park offers the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy nature, and take in the sights.
Whether you're looking to picnic, enjoy some fresh air, or just take in the peaceful surroundings, it's the ideal place to recharge in the city.
WHERE: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801 | WHO: (407) 246-4484
12 | Universal CityWalk | Universal CityWalk is the ultimate destination for entertainment, dining, and excitement all in one place!
With its vibrant atmosphere, you can explore unique shops, enjoy delicious meals at top restaurants, and experience live music or thrilling nightlife. Whether you're grabbing a bite at Hard Rock Café, catching a movie at the Cinemark theater, or dancing the night away at the Rising Star karaoke bar, CityWalk offers something for everyone.
It’s the perfect spot to end your day in Orlando with non-stop fun and energy!
WHERE: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
13 | Orlando Museum of Art | Step into a world of creativity and culture at the Orlando Museum of Art! With its stunning collections and rotating exhibitions, the museum offers a unique experience for art lovers and explorers alike.
From contemporary works to traditional pieces, you'll find inspiring displays that celebrate both local and global talent.
Whether you're an art aficionado or just looking to enjoy an afternoon of creativity, the Orlando Museum of Art is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of the artistic world.
WHERE: 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 896-4231
14 | Dezerland Park | If you have a few hours left in your day, Dezerland Park in Orlando is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of exciting activities in one spot.
As the largest indoor entertainment venue in the area, it offers something for everyone—whether you're racing go-karts, experiencing the thrill of the arcade, or checking out impressive exhibits like the classic car museum.
With its wide range of attractions, Dezerland Park makes it easy to have a fun and action-packed experience, no matter how much time you have left to explore Orlando.
WHERE: 5250 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (321) 754-1700
15 | Andretti Indoor Karting & Games | Get ready for non-stop fun at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games in Orlando! Feel the adrenaline as you race high-speed go-karts, challenge your friends to a round of laser tag, or dive into the massive arcade for hours of entertainment.
With attractions like axe throwing and a virtual reality experience, there’s no shortage of excitement.
Whether you’re looking to race, compete, or just have a blast with friends and family, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games is the ultimate spot for thrill-seekers looking to make their day unforgettable.
WHERE: 9299 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 610-5020
Use Our Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!
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Wrapping Up Your Half-Day in Orlando
With only a half-day in Orlando, you can still have a great time. If your heart is set on checking out the theme parks, consider booking tickets early and using line-cutting services, like Universal Express pass or Disney’s Lightning Lane. Aim to get there early as well, so you can take advantage of short lines and more time to explore the park.
Of course, a half-day can be equally great for exploring non-theme park attractions, like the Orlando Science Center and Central Florida Zoo. You can also visit Orlando beaches, like Daytona, New Smyrna and Cocoa Beach if you’re looking for a little sand and surf during your vacation.
From hanging out at Orlando skating rinks to spending the day at a Disney park, there are tons of awesome things to do in just a few hours. You can make the most out of a half-day in Orlando by planning ahead to make the most out of your visit.
For more things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, check out our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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