THERE'S MORE TO ORLANDO THAN THEME PARKS
Roller coasters may get most of the attention, but some of the best outdoor things to do in Orlando take you away from the crowds and into the natural side of Central Florida.
Lakes, wetlands, wildlife and year-round outdoor opportunities make it easy to add a little Florida adventure to an Orlando vacation.
DISCOVER THE OUTDOOR SIDE OF ORLANDO
Central Florida's warm climate and abundance of lakes, parks and wetlands create plenty of opportunities to spend time outside. You don't have to travel far from Orlando to trade pavement and attractions for water, trees and Florida wildlife.
Whether you have an entire day available or just a few hours between other plans, here are several ways to experience Orlando outdoors.
TOP OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO
Step outside the usual attractions and explore some of the natural environments that make Central Florida such a unique place to visit.
Take An Airboat Tour
Ride across shallow Florida wetlands on an airboat while searching the water and shoreline for alligators, turtles and native birds. It's one of the most distinctly Florida outdoor experiences you can add to an Orlando trip.
Explore Florida's Wetlands
Central Florida is filled with lakes, marshes and wetland habitat. Exploring these areas provides a completely different view of the region than you'll experience around Orlando's major attractions.
Go Wildlife Watching
Florida's natural areas provide opportunities to look for alligators, turtles, wading birds and other native wildlife. Remember that these are wild animals, so every outing is different.
Get Outside After Sunset
Outdoor Florida doesn't shut down when the sun sets. Evening experiences offer cooler temperatures and the opportunity to see how the wetlands change after dark.
EXPERIENCE AN AIRBOAT TOUR NEAR ORLANDO
One way to experience Central Florida's natural side is from the seat of an airboat. Gator Airboat Rides takes visitors onto the Headwaters of the Florida Everglades, where lakes and wetlands form part of the larger Everglades ecosystem.
Daytime rides last approximately 30 minutes, making them easy to fit into an Orlando itinerary while still giving visitors an opportunity to experience an airboat and watch for native Florida wildlife.
Each trip is different because the plants, birds, turtles, alligators and other animals you may encounter are part of a natural environment.
Explore The 30 Minute RideDAYTIME OR AFTER DARK?
The Florida wetlands have a different feel depending on when you head onto the water.
30 Minute Daytime Ride
Daytime rides provide approximately 30 minutes on the water with views of the wetlands and the opportunity to watch for alligators, birds, turtles and other wildlife along the way.
1 Hour Night Airboat Tour
For a completely different outdoor experience, night airboat tours head onto the water after sunset. The night experience lasts approximately one hour and requires advance reservations.
WHAT TO BRING FOR AN OUTDOOR AIRBOAT ADVENTURE
Florida weather can change quickly, so a little preparation can make your time outside more comfortable.
For daytime trips, consider applying sunscreen before heading onto the water. Sunglasses can help with glare, and a light rain jacket or poncho can be useful when rain is in the forecast.
If you have long hair, secure it before the airboat departs. And don't forget your phone or cameraโthe wetlands can provide plenty of opportunities for photos.
ADD AN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE TO YOUR ORLANDO TRIP
Gator Airboat Rides is located just 6 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO), making it convenient for travelers who want to add an outdoor Florida experience near the beginning or end of their trip.
READY TO GET OUT ON THE WATER?
Leave the pavement behind and experience the natural wetlands of Central Florida from an airboat. Choose a daytime ride or plan an after-dark adventure with Gator Airboat Rides.
Book An Airboat Ride