Stay cool: Things to do in Orlando in summer

Summer in Central Florida can mean searching for things to do in Orlando that are fun and keep you cool at the same time. But here’s the thing: keeping the whole family comfortable doesn’t mean you have to spend the whole season indoors. From splash pads and water parks to air-conditioned attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Orlando that beat the heat without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re looking for family activities in Orlando to stay cool, planning a day trip to Sanford, or searching for unique things to do in Orlando beyond the usual theme parks, Central Florida has you covered.

Here are some of the best family friendly ways to keep cool in Orlando in summer.

Beat the heat at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

If you’re searching for things to do in Sanford or need a full day of Orlando family activities that keep everyone comfortable, look no further than the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. This beloved zoo in Central Florida is one of the best and most popular Orlando attractions for families, and it’s designed to be enjoyed even on the hottest summer days.

What makes the Zoo a summer MVP? A smart mix of shaded outdoor paths, climate-controlled indoor attractions, and a splash pad the kids will absolutely love. Plus, during summer, the Zoo opens daily at 8 a.m. and closes at 3 p.m., so you can enjoy the cooler mornings and be out of the hottest parts of the day.

Make a splash and beat the heat

One of the most popular Orlando kids activities at the Zoo is the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground, a fully interactive, zero-depth splash pad that’s included with general admission. Little ones can run through water jets, splash stations, and tropical-themed features while parents catch a breather in the shaded seating area nearby. It’s the perfect cooldown between animal exhibits and one of the most family-friendly things to do in Orlando during the summer months. Pro tip: pack a change of clothes and a towel so the kids are comfortable for the rest of the day.

Cooler boardwalks with tree-covered paths

Unlike many open-air theme parks, the Central Florida Zoo is known for its lush, tree-covered walkways that provide natural shade throughout the day. Much of the Zoo’s pathways wind through mature Florida foliage, keeping your family sheltered from direct sun as you explore over 350 animals across a variety of ecosystems. The shaded boardwalks that run through the wetland and nature areas are especially peaceful in the morning hours, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying the botanical gardens at a comfortable pace.

Cool indoor attractions at the Zoo

When the midday heat peaks, head into the Zoo’s air-conditioned Herpetarium for a cool break while exploring fascinating reptiles like snakes, turtles, and lizards. For an even more immersive escape, the Wild Explorer VR Experience is an indoor attraction and allows guests travel the world in 360° with motion seats coming face-to-face with wildlife in a fully interactive adventure. Click here for more information.

Cool things to do on International Drive

When it comes to family-friendly things to do around Orlando, International Drive is a must-visit destination. One of the most walkable entertainment districts in the area, International Drive offers a variety of attractions, restaurants, and shops that make it easy to spend an entire day exploring without traveling far.

At the heart of the action is ICON Park, home to more than 50 dining, shopping and entertainment experiences. Visitors can take in breathtaking views aboard The Orlando Eye, a 400-foot indoor observation wheel that provides panoramic views of Orlando.

Entertainment lovers won’t want to miss Blue Man Group, now back in Orlando at its new home at ICON Park. The iconic indoor show delivers a one-of-a-kind, multi-sensory experience filled with music, laughter, audience interaction, and unexpected surprises. Get tickets here.

Families looking for unique indoor entertainment can also experience the Spheres Bubble Show at ICON Park. This interactive theatrical production transforms a childhood favorite into a larger-than-life spectacle featuring giant floating bubbles, intricate bubble sculptures and dazzling liquid fireworks.

For more information visit, https://iconparkorlando.com/.

Make a splash at water attractions in Orlando

For the ultimate summer splashdown, Central Florida’s water parks and attractions are some of the best outdoor activities in Orlando for families. These spots are built for hot days.

• Island H2O Water Park in Kissimmee delivers a tropical island vibe with wave pools, lazy rivers, and thrilling slides, a top pick for fun family activities that double as a full-day event.
• Orlando Watersports Complex Aqua Park features over 40 inflatable obstacles, slides, and challenges on the water, with a chill beach area for parents to relax while the kids go wild.
• Disney H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon offers a unique way to cool off on summer evenings. This after-hours event allows guests to enjoy popular water attractions with shorter wait times, complimentary snacks and beverages, a DJ dance party and appearances by beloved Disney characters all under the glow of nighttime lights.
• Wekiva Island is a scenic river destination where families can rent cabanas, kayaks, and paddleboards along the Wekiva River. It’s one of the most affordable and relaxing things to do in Central Florida for all ages.

Indoor attractions in Orlando for families to beat the heat

Not every great Orlando activity has to be outside. These indoor attractions are perfect for keeping the whole family cool and entertained, and they’re some of the best cheap things to do in Orlando for families.

• Orlando Science Center offers hands-on, STEM-focused exhibits that spark curiosity in kids of all ages. It’s one of the most popular things to do for kids in Orlando and a staple for families visiting the area.
• Crayola Experience Orlando is a colorful, interactive attraction where kids can design their own crayons, explore creative exhibits and unleash their imagination. It’s a perfect pick for kids any day of the week.
• Funtastic Depot brings together climbing walls, a Ninja Warrior course, axe throwing, and arcade games under one (very air-conditioned) roof. This is one of the unique things to do in Orlando beyond theme parks.
• Make a strike at Aloma Bowling Centers for a fun way to stay cool this summer. With three convenient Central Florida locations and the Kids Bowl Free program offering children ages 15 and younger two free games Monday through Friday from open to 5 p.m., it’s an affordable family outing that beats the heat.
• Escaping into a movie theater is a fun way to beat the summer heat while enjoying a few hours of entertainment. With comfortable, air-conditioned seating and a lineup of blockbuster hits, family-friendly films, and special summer movie programs, theaters offer an affordable outing for visitors of all ages.
• Another fun and completely free way to beat the Florida heat is by visiting your local library. In addition to offering a cool, air-conditioned space to relax, many libraries host summer reading programs, story times, hands-on activities and special events for children and families throughout the season.

Make the most of summer and stay cool in Central Florida

Summer in Orlando doesn’t have to mean hiding from the heat. With the right mix of early morning adventures, indoor attractions, splash-worthy experiences, and shaded outdoor activities, there are plenty of family-friendly things to do in Orlando to keep cool in summer while making lasting memories together.

From the best zoo in Florida to exciting indoor attractions, water parks and entertainment destinations, Central Florida is packed with things to do in Orlando with kids all summer long.

Start planning your summer bucket list today and don’t forget to kick it off with a morning visit to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens where parking is always free. To purchase your Zoo tickets, click here. We’ll see you there!