Hitting the Orlando theme parks may conjure up images of sunshine and blue skies, but especially in summer, families often encounter an overcast and damp day. You can still enjoy everything from Disney to Universal in the rain, though little and big kids alike may not find it the adventure they were hoping for.
If your plans are flexible, venture past the theme parks and find something fun (and dry) to do in Orlando that’s not contingent on ideal weather. Here are some of our favorites.
Sunrail
Hop aboard the Sunrail double decker light rail and zip through Orlando in style. The brightly painted yellow and white commuter train offers “upstairs” seating, creating a perfect spot for little ones who want a better look. Hop off at any of the 12 stops, like the Florida Mall, to do some shopping and grab a treat.
Artegon
For indoor shopping with a twist, head out to Artegon and check-out their free Kids Clubs with activities like necklace making and foam crafts. Show the kids what old-school video games use to look like at Pins & Pixels for golden gaming era game cabinets. Kids will love the selection of graphic novels at the second largest fandom store in the U.S., Gods & Monsters. There’s also a daily indoor artisanal marketplace with over 100 artisans and craftspeople ready to show off their wares.
Ripley’s Believe it Or Not
Orlando’s Ripley’s Believe it Or Not! promises to be the only place in Orlando where you’ll find shrunken heads, authentic vampire killing kits, a shooting gallery and wild spinning vortex tunnel. Kids love the sight of the 10,000 square-foot “Odditorium” seemingly stuck in a Florida a sinkhole. Indoor, 16 unique galleries feature relics and artifacts from around the world like legendary fertility statues and decorated Tibetan skulls.
World of Chocolate
Older kids and multi-generational travelers will love the World of Chocolate in Orlando. Take the Chocolate Museum Tour to see what the world would look like in chocolate form. Squeeze in a geography lesson by talking about the 25 solid chocolate sculptures of recognizable landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. You’ll also see how the chocolate is made, and get to taste chocolates from around the world. Afterwards, head to the cafe to grab a pastry or inspirational Word of Chocolate Cake.
Candyce H. Stapen from VacationDifferently.com has some inspired (and dry) recommendations for Florida dwellers. Here are some of her rainy day Orlando ideas worth checking out.
iFLY Orlando
Even the most blasé of ‘tweens and teens get excited about indoor skydiving at iFLY. Once your gravity-bound youngster enters the wind tunnel accompanied by an instructor, the strong air currents lift her off the ground. Look ma–she’s flying like Supergirl! It’s an Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat moment.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Like to bowl? When your kids stop rolling their eyes, take them to Splitsville. The alley’s motto: Reinventing America’s game. The facility accomplishes this with a sleek retro look and a menu designed for both kids and adults. Along with such staples as pizza and burgers, you can opt for edamame and sushi. Bowling is fun and it gives you a great opportunity to clap for your kids.
Escapology
Team up with your children to solve murders, contain a deadly virus or escape from being kidnapped aboard a ship. The only way to free yourselves from these and other inventive scenes is to work together to discover clues and solve riddles that free you. Puzzles last about 60 minutes and the experience is recommended for those ages seven and older.
Ready to book your Orlando vacation during rain or shine? Visit VacationDifferently.com to find out about booking your stay at Wyndham Vacation Rentals.
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