Top 10 Things to do Outdoors in Orlando and Central Florida – 2019 Update
Wekiwa Spring State Park: Take an eco-tour of Wekiwa Spring’s wildlife refuge of over 7,000-acres and enjoy the sights that can only be seen on one of the last wild and scenic river systems in Florida. Take a trip back in time and see Florida the way it was before businesses and interstate road systems were developed.
Bioluminescent Lagoon Tour: Glow in the dark! Yes, take a bioluminescent tour on Florida’s glowing Bio Bay and see the underwater inhabitants come to life in a myriad of breathtaking colors seen only during the Florida summer months.
Seminole State Forest Paddle and Bike Trails: The Seminole State Forest at the northeast edge of greater Orlando boast over 8 miles of rugged mountain biking trails. There are shops nearby like David’s World Cycles that rent bicycles. Or if you want to combine your ride with a paddle down the famous Econlockhatchee River (known for its native American history and giant alligators), then jump on the all day Pedal and Paddle excursion with BK Adventure.
Wild Florida Airboat Ride and Safari Park: Feeling the heat a little too much to be comfortable walking around Florida’s parks? Well, that’s no problem. Fly through canals and waterways on an airbaot at Wild Florida. Or, get a VIP visit with a SLOTH! Wild Florida takes exploring the Floridian wildlife to a whole new level! This is a truly unique experience that combines real Florida with exotic wildlife.
Weeki Wachee Mermaids: Tired of the seeing the same old wildlife on every eco-tour? Weeki Wachee Springs State Park offers a chance to watch a different form of wildlife dance about their environments. The Weeki Wachee mermaid show follows the famous story of Ariel, the Little Mermaid, and her quest to become a part of her prince’s world. Watch the mermaids dance to music and perform underwater feats, including eating and drinking UNDERWATER!!
Canyons Zipline: Sometimes, gliding over walkways and waterways can become commonplace, so Canyons Zipline in Ocala has developed a different way to explore Florida. Canyons offers an inexpensive trip not through or around but above the Florida landscape. Get a unique birds-eye-view perspective on the natural wonders of Central Florida in this amazing eco-tour.
Take a Cycling Trip to West Orange Trail: Walking around Florida not your thing? No Problem! The West Orange Trail is one of Florida’s premiere cycling locations, offering over 20-miles of trails and beautiful landscapes. Transition from the mechanisms of the civilized world and gain a unique perspective on the natural wooded trails of metropolitan Orlando on this amazing cycling adventure.
Pet Animals at Jungle Adventures: Seeing the Florida wildlife from afar just not amazing enough for you? Jungle Adventures offers the chance to develop a closer and more intimate relationship with the animals of Florida. Hold a baby gator or other young critter in your hands and learn some of the most amazing facts about each and every critter you will see.
Visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens: Know enough about animals to make you sick? Visit the Harry P. Leu botanical gardens and learn about the myriad of beautiful flora and fauna that can only be found in Florida. With over 50-acres of awe inspiring landscapes, each garden is specifically designed to enhance your learning experience and intrigue you to learn more about the natural plants of Florida, including Bromeliad flowers and the White and Southern Red Oak trees of Central Florida.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: This is one of the best examples of unspoiled Florida you will see. The refuge has over 100,000 acres of hiking, kayaking and biking trails. You will see a plethora of native wildlife, and get amazing views of the Kennedy Space Center. The wildlife refuge leads to the Canaveral National Seashore, where you can spend a day at Florida’s last unspoiled beach! Try a Fat Tire Bike Tour to get the full experience.
