15 Best Things To Do In Orlando In The Winter
Orlando isn’t just for summer vacations or theme park lovers — it’s one of the best winter destinations in the U.S. As someone who lived in Orlando for several years, I can confidently say that the winter was my favorite season to enjoy everything the city has to offer. The temperatures finally drop and you can explore the beautiful outdoors without the unrelenting heat but still get relief from the frigid temperatures you may be experiencing back home. There are fewer crowds which makes it easy to enjoy unique experiences and plenty of outdoor activities to soak up the sun. From kayaking and food festivals to gardens and hidden gems, here is my list of the 15 best things to do in Orlando in the winter.
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Want to skip ahead? Here is a shortened list of my top recommendations for things to do in Orlando in the winter
Why Visit Orlando In the Winter
Winter is my favorite season to explore Orlando. While the mornings may be on the chillier side, the afternoons are bright and sunny. The temperature is just about perfect with highs typically ranging in the mid 60s-mid 70s (perfect weather for being outside).
If you are visiting around the holiday season, you can expect the typical hustle and bustle that comes with any popular travel destination. However, Orlando after the holidays is the perfect time to visit. There are fewer crowds and due to most kids being back in school and you can easily enjoy attractions without waiting in super long lines.
If you decide to visit during the holiday season, you can count on plenty of unique themed events. While these may not all occur in or near downtown Orlando, I highly recommend branching out to the Greater Orlando Area, visiting the surrounding areas and experiencing all they have to offer!
15 Best Things To Do In Orlando In The Winter
1. Kayak at Wekiwa Springs
This is consistently one of my favorite outdoor activities in Orlando! Wekiwa Springs is a Florida State Park and offers tons of outdoor exploration. There are many miles of hiking trails and camping opportunities. It is most popular for the fresh water springs that feed the Wekiva River. This water here is safe to swim in but it is chilly (72 degrees year around). A great option for a summer day!
In the winter, I recommend Wekiwa Springs for Kayaking or Paddle boarding. You can rent kayaks, canoes or paddle boards on site or take a personalized guided tour and explore the springs. We have kayaked here multiple times and always love seeing the wildlife and spending the afternoon on the water.
2. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
Looking for a more thrilling activity? Take a hot air balloon ride over Orlando and watch the sunrise. This is a great way to celebrate a special occasion or make once in a lifetime memories.
During my commute to work, I regularly saw these hot air balloons dotting the sky. My fear of heights has kept me firmly planted on the ground, however I know the views have to be amazing!
3. Stroll Around Disney Springs
While Orlando may be most widely known for numerous theme parks, did you know you can still visit Disney without the expense of a park ticket? Disney Springs is the perfect place to get that Disney “feel” without the entrance fee. A shopping, dining and entertainment district, this area is a great activity for a night out.
We frequently visit Disney Springs as they have some of the best restaurants in the south Orlando area as well as free music, shows and other nightlife and entertainment.
If you’re needing a dinner recommendation, Summer House on the Lake is my favorite! Be sure to save room for dessert. They have a cookie bar with endless cookie options that always hit the spot!
4. Harry P Leu Gardens
If you’re on the hunt for some beautiful scenery, Harry P. Leu Botanical Gardens is definitely the place to go. This 50 acre botanical oasis is a really fun activity and a great place to explore and learn about plants from all over the world.
The admission is $15 per adult and provides access to portions of the gardens. The walking paths are wide and accessible for people with mobility issues.
Be sure to check out if they have any special events happening!
5. Apopka Wildlife Drive
This is a great opportunity to see some of Florida’s native wildlife in their natural habitat. The Lake Apopka Wildlife drive is an 11 mile loop through a conservation area in Apopka (just outside Orlando). You experience this attraction in the comfort of your own vehicle as you cruise through the park.
There are multiple areas to pull over and walk to short overlooks for better views. We saw SO many alligators when we drove the loop as well as plenty of birds.
I would recommend budgeting 2-3 hours for this experience. We got stuck behind someone who was enjoying the park at a much slower pace than we would have preferred. The trail is only one lane and while there are some areas to pull over to let people pass, I wouldn’t count on it.
6. Wander Through Winter Park
Winter Park is one of my favorite areas of Orlando. Located about 15 minutes north of the city center, this charming town is great if you love shopping, art and restaurants.
I briefly worked at Rollins College, a liberal arts college located in the town. The architecture here is stunning and I could spend many afternoons wandering down Park Avenue in search of a great buy or delicious coffee.
I highly recommend this tour as you will see some stunning homes, architecture and preservation areas. The tour can be customized to your desires and group size!
7. Visit Downtown Celebration
The town that Disney built! And where I called home for several years! This picturesque town located just minutes away from the theme parks is worth a visit! The houses look as if they are out of a storybook and the downtown area is packed with just as much charm. Take a few hours to walk around, grab a bite to eat and live your own fairytale.
Visiting close to the holidays? Downtown Celebration puts on an event every year called “Now Snowing”. Each night, Christmas music fills the air, you can take a ride in a horse and carriage or on a magical train, grab some delicious hot chocolate and admire the snowfall.
Snowfall? In Florida? Yes! Well…sort of.
Every hour on the hour you can experience the magic of winter (without the cold temperatures) as you enjoy the snowfall in the downtown streets.
Tip: The residents of Celebration have some of the most impressive Christmas lights that I have ever seen. Take a drive in the evening and check them out!
8. Catch a Show at the Dr. Phillips Center For The Performing Arts
This performing arts theater is located in downtown Orlando, making it easily accessible if you’re exploring the city. This theatre is relatively new and very elegant inside. It has even recently been named Travel + Leisure Magazine’s ‘25 New Tourist Attractions Worth Adding to Your Bucket List.
Grab a ticket to your favorite ballet, musical or concert!
9. Enjoy a Food Tour
One of my favorite ways to explore a new city is through food! Book a walking food tour to try out different spots and enjoy some local cuisine. Orlando is such a melting pot city of different cultures, you never know what amazing options you’ll find!
Check out this Flavors of Winter Park Foodie Walking Tour. I think Winter Park has some of the best restaurants in Orlando and this is a great way to experience multiple dishes while enjoying the charming town!
10. Grab Something to Eat at East End Market
While we are on the topic of food, head over to East End Market. This neighborhood market and food hall located in the Audubon Park Garden DIstrict of Orlando is a must-visit! This food hall has over two dozen merchants serving everything from coffee and desserts to breakfast, lunch and dinner.
My recommendation is to go early! Many merchants may sell out. You can enjoy your time trying different food options as well as browsing with select local vendors selling hand curated items.
11. ICE! At Gaylord Palms Resort
Located inside the Gaylord Palms Resort is a fully immersive holiday experience. With ice sculptures, slides and winter activities for families, it is a great way to get in the holiday spirit. The Ice village is made of over 2 million pounds of ice. That’s cold! With your admission you are provided parkas to wear as you wander through the exhibit. The theme changes each year so you can make it an annual event!
My family visited ICE! a few years ago, it was such a fun activity. The giant ice slide was one of my favorites – even as an adult! This is a seasonal event so it may only be available if you are visiting around the holiday season.
12. Tour Local Breweries or Wineries
Orlando’s craft drink scene has exploded in recent years, making it a must for travelers who love local flavor. Head to Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. for laid-back lake views and creative seasonal brews, or stop by Quantum Leap Winery — a sustainable urban winery that offers tastings right in the heart of the city.
Both spots have cozy indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for cooler winter afternoons. Pair your tasting with a local food truck meal or small bites for a great Orlando winter hangout.
13. Lake Nona’s Oh, What Fun! Festival
If you’re visiting Orlando in December, don’t miss Oh, What Fun! — Lake Nona’s signature holiday festival that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Similar to the Town of Celebration’s holiday activities, this month-long event transforms the town center into a cozy winter wonderland with twinkling lights, an outdoor skating rink, live music, and festive food trucks.
It’s the perfect spot to sip hot cocoa, snap holiday photos, and enjoy the cheerful community vibe that makes Orlando so special this time of year.
14. Take a Day Trip to Mount Dora
Just 40 minutes from downtown Orlando, Mount Dora is one of Florida’s most charming small towns — and it truly shines in winter.
The downtown streets are full of antique shops, boutiques and restaurants. If you visit in January or February, you might catch one of the town’s famous art or craft festivals. It’s a perfect low-key day trip for those wanting a cozy, small-town holiday feel without leaving Central Florida.
I took a day trip to Mount Dora with the AmazingCo experience (a mystery picnic combined with a scavenger hunt). It was a really neat experience and a great gift idea if travelling with friends or family. You can read all about it here!
15. Disney World
As a Disney annual pass holder, I couldn’t leave a trip to the most magical place on earth off the list! I believe the winter is the best time to enjoy a day at the park. You can expect cooler weather and fewer crowds which allows you to move at your own pace and avoid waiting in all those super long lines that Disney is infamous for.
My favorite Disney park in the winter is Animal Kingdom. As a mostly “outside” park, you can enjoy all it has to offer without getting overheated!
Where to Stay When Visiting Orlando
Finding the perfect place to stay can make your Winter trip to Orlando even more magical. Below I have listed some of my top recommendations for exciting stays!
Rosen Shingle Creek Universal Boulevard – If you’re looking for more of a resort destination than this is the hotel for you! Located in the center of Orlando action, this resort has multiple dining options, a golf course, full service-spa and more!
The Inn at Celebration – This hotel is located in the “town that Disney built” and is a great option if you want to be close to the Disney parks without staying on Disney property.
Hyatt House – This is a more budget conscious option that is still located in an ideal are to explore all Orlando has to offer. Free breakfast included!
Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport – Just visiting Orlando for a night? This beautiful Hyatt property is located inside the Orlando International Airport making it a convenient option for a short Florida visit.
Tips For Visiting Orlando In The Winter
What To Pack: Layers will be your friend! The mornings can be chillier than you’d expect as well as windy. However, it will usually warm up to at least the mid 60s fahrenheit in the afternoon and the sun will still feel warm.
Pack light layers, comfortable walking shoes and a jacket.
Avoiding Crowds and Getting The Best Deals: Visiting during the holiday season will still see an influx of visitors.
By the second week of January, most people will be back to school or work and you can find some of the best deals to travel to Orlando.
January – early March is one of the most underrated times to visit the area if you’re looking for cheaper prices and fewer crowds!
Winter in Orlando offers the perfect blend of sunshine, festive fun, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re exploring the theme parks without the summer crowds, wandering through twinkling holiday displays, or enjoying outdoor adventures in perfect weather, there’s something for every traveler to love.
From cozy resorts and boutique hotels to family-friendly attractions and seasonal events, Orlando transforms into a winter wonderland with its own unique Florida twist.
So pack your bags, leave the snow behind, and use this guide to the 15 Best Things To Do In Orlando to help you discover why winter might just be the best time to visit Orlando.
