As an international student, you have the opportunity to explore your chosen city for a longer time than a regular tourist. This is an amazing chance for immersing yourself into a new culture and learn as much as you can from the locals. Sure, choosing what to do in Orlando depends on your interests, but let us walk you through some of the most popular activities available.

This popular central Florida city is most known for Disney Parks and attractions. However, few tourists know world-famous Disney World is actually in Kissimmee, Orlando’s neighbor city. That being said, these magical theme parks are a few minutes away and completely accessible for Orlando residents. So, if you get the chance, plan a visit to Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You will not regret it!

What to Do in Orlando Beyond Disney World

As you spend some time in Orlando, you’ll get to see there’s much more to the city than theme parks. There are plenty of other educational and recreational activities to try on your free time. Want some ideas? Let’s take a look:

1. Take a Boat Tour of the Everglades

Orlando is located close to a section of the Everglades National Park. This is one of the largest national parks in America and is filled with habitats for birds, fish, alligators, manatees, and reptiles. One of the best ways to see the unique ecosystem in the Everglades is by taking an air boat tour. You will be fascinated to see and learn about Florida’s diverse wildlife, and you will also be thrilled when the boat speeds up to 35 miles per hour as it races over the marshes and waterways.

2. Experience all Things Alligator at Gatorland

If you want a truly Floridian experience, then a visit to Gatorland is a must! This theme-park is devoted to alligators and offers you the opportunity to get close—really close—to these mesmerizing creatures. Watch professional alligator handlers feed them and explain you all about their habits. Finally, if you are feeling brave, zipline over a marsh with 30 alligators right underneath you! Don’t forget your camera!

3. Take a Picture With Your Favorite (Wax) Celebrity

Located just by the Orlando Eye and Sea-Life Aquarium, the Madame Tussauds wax museum is filled with glamorous and realistic wax sculptures of popular celebrities. Plan a memorable afternoon spotting famous people from history, sports, music, and movies and taking pictures with them all.

4. Shoot for the Stars at Kennedy Space Center

If you are interested in exploring this planet and beyond, you can travel to the Kennedy Space Center for an in-depth look at the history of space travel in America. About an hour away from the busy hub of Orlando, Kennedy Space Center allows you to see what life is like for astronauts going into outer space. And, you can even see actual rockets launch.

5. Take a Walk in Tibet Butler Nature Preserve

Studying English is a wonderful experience, but can be stressful at times. So, when considering new options of what to do in Orlando, give nature a chance! Head out to the Tibet Butler Nature Preserve. You can walk the trails through the lush, green landscape, listen to the birds calling, and feel the warm breeze—all within minutes from the city.

6. Enjoy Everything the Universal City Walk Has to Offer

The Universal City Walk is a commercial and entertainment area at the Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure park entrance. You don’t need a park ticket to hang out there with friends, do some shopping, grab a bite, and even enjoy a fun night out. There’s usually live music and special events for everyone to enjoy. Plus, an IMAX theater for movie lovers.

7. Check Out Dave & Buster’s Arcade, Restaurant, and Bar

Dave and Buster’s is another great place to go with friends after a day of classes. It is a large arcade filled with games that are sure to please any taste, as well as a restaurant and bar. You can play arcade games like Skeeball and PacMan, compete with your friends in Dance Dance Revolution, or play pool in the billiards room.

What to Do in Orlando? The Choice is Yours!

As you can see, finding something fun to do in Orlando is definitely not a tough task. Here at the Harvest English Institute, our classes run Monday to Thursday, so our students have plenty of time to be tourists. Being an international student is an experience that will shape you for life. Make the most of it!

Check out our Orlando Campus and contact us for any additional information on our courses!