Alright, fellow Orlando parents, I’m about to let you in on a little secret. While we all love the big theme parks (Disney, Universal, etc.), there are some spots around town that are way less crowded, but just as awesome. If you’re tired of the endless lines, the constant snack requests, and the heat (oh, the heat), I’ve got a list of Orlando’s hidden gems you need to check out—some you probably haven’t even heard of.
Let’s talk about some spots that’ll make your family time feel a little more relaxed, a little more fun, and a whole lot more memorable.
1. Peppa Pig World at Legoland: The Preschooler’s Dream Come True
If you haven’t been to Peppa Pig World yet, let me just say—you’re missing out. Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Isn’t that for little kids?” Yes, it is. But don’t let that scare you off if you have older kids, because Ginny and Adam loved it. There’s something about Peppa’s world that just makes everyone happy. The entire park is designed with preschoolers in mind—think gentle rides, bright colors, and plenty of characters to take pictures with. You won’t find crazy roller coasters here, but trust me, Peppa Pig World is a great way to introduce your younger kids to the theme park scene without the overstimulation of the bigger places.
And hey, don’t feel bad if you get a little excited to see George Pig’s dinosaur, too. Who doesn’t love a good dino moment? Plus, if your kids need a break from the park, Legoland is right there with its larger-than-life Lego creations. Adam went nuts for the Lego city, and I won’t lie, I may have snapped a few pics of those cool mini landmarks for myself.
2. Legoland Florida: Bigger Than You Think
Alright, don’t just think of Legoland as “the place with all the blocks.” Sure, it’s Lego-themed, but it’s SO much more than that. I was shocked when I took Ginny and Adam there for the first time. It’s got everything—from roller coasters (nothing too crazy, don’t worry) to water rides to a fun little driving school where your kids can get their own “license.” (Ginny has been talking about her driving skills ever since.) If your kids are into Legos or just love anything that’s interactive, this place will blow their minds.
The cool thing about Legoland is that it’s just a little more laid-back than the massive Disney parks. It feels like you’re in a world made of giant Legos but without all the crowds or pressure to rush from one thing to the next. Plus, there’s an entire area dedicated to the coolest Lego builds ever. Ginny was all about the Lego Castle, and Adam couldn’t get enough of the Lego Ninjago section. Seriously, it’s a Lego lover’s paradise.
3. Leu Gardens – Quiet, Peaceful, and Perfect for Family Strolls
Sometimes, you just need to take a step back from the theme parks and breathe, right? That’s where Leu Gardens comes in. I know it’s not what you’d typically think of when you imagine “family fun,” but trust me—this spot is a little slice of paradise. Ginny and Adam had an absolute blast exploring the gardens, looking at the flowers, and trying to spot all the butterflies. Nathaniel and I actually got to have a calm conversation while the kids were distracted by nature (a rare moment of peace in our busy world).
The best part? It’s quiet, relaxing, and not a place where you have to fight for space. It’s a great place to let your kids run around without the stress of big crowds. You can enjoy the gorgeous scenery, snap some beautiful photos, and, let’s be real, enjoy a little peace and quiet for once.
4. The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey – More Than Just a Walk in the Park
If your kids are into animals (or if you’re just looking for something a little different), the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is a hidden gem you have to check out. It’s not your typical zoo or petting farm, but trust me, it’s just as fascinating. The kids get to see some of the most incredible birds up close—bald eagles, owls, hawks—and learn about conservation efforts.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting to be so captivated, but walking through and seeing these majestic birds really made an impact. Ginny couldn’t stop talking about the owls, and Adam was super into the bald eagles. It’s a great spot if you’re looking to mix in some education without the boring “we’re in school” vibe. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve had a real adventure—without a single kid complaint about walking!
5. Gatorland – Not Just for Gators (But Definitely for Gators)
Now, Gatorland. It’s one of those places that every Floridian should check off their list, but I promise it’s not just for tourists. My kids went absolutely wild for it—and not just because of the gators. Don’t get me wrong, the alligator feeding shows are a thrill, and seeing those beasts up close is seriously impressive. But did you know there are also zip lines over the gator enclosures? Yep. I watched Nathaniel zip through the air like a daredevil while Ginny and Adam cheered him on. The whole family had a blast, and it didn’t break the bank. Plus, it’s not as crowded as the bigger theme parks, so you can actually breathe and enjoy the day without feeling like you’re on a constant race against time.
6. Lake Eola Swan Boats – A Perfect Little Escape
Sometimes, you just want something low-key, right? So grab a swan boat at Lake Eola. This might be a “classic” Orlando spot, but it’s still an underrated gem. The kids love the idea of “driving” the boat, and it’s honestly just a peaceful, relaxing experience. Afterward, you can grab a snack or just chill by the lake while the kids run around on the grass. No stress, no lines—just good, simple fun.
So, next time you’re looking for something new and exciting in Orlando, skip the long waits and crazy crowds. Check out Peppa Pig World, Legoland, and these other hidden gems that are just as fun and a lot less stressful. You’ll be surprised at how much there is to explore beyond the big theme parks—and your kids will probably thank you for it. At least, Ginny and Adam did. 😜
Catch you next time, mama! Let’s keep exploring together.