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Orlando, Florida is well known for its theme parks, but there’s so much more to explore and experience beyond Disney World and Universal Studios. If you’re searching for an unforgettable way to celebrate your birthday in Orlando, there are plenty of unique options to choose from.
From cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, culinary delight, and relaxation, Orlando has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the myriad of activities and options available will help plan the ideal birthday celebration that doesn’t involve Disney or Universal Parks.
1. Visit the Kennedy Space Center
For space enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking an educational experience in Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center should not be missed. Situated on Florida’s east coast just a short drive away, visitors can explore exhibits, tours, and interactive experiences that celebrate space exploration both past and present.
At Kennedy Space Center, one of the most popular attractions is the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit – home to the actual Atlantis space shuttle that completed 33 missions in space. Visitors can get up close and personal with this iconic vessel through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays while learning about its history as part of NASA’s space program.
2. Sea Life Orlando Aquarium
The Orlando aquarium is one of the best aquariums in Florida where you can view all kinds of marine life. It is home to Florida’s only 360 degree underwater tunnel exhibit where you can see fish, sharks, turtles, and eels swimming all around you.
Check out the jelly wall with mesmerizing jellyfish and join on the feeding frenzy where you get to feed fish as you learn about their dietary preferences.
One of the most special ways to experience the aquarium is to go on the behind-the-scenes tour. This tour takes you in to the life of an aquarist where you will learn all about how the animals are taken care of. See how the meals are prepared, get a preview of sea creatures not yet on display, and help with feeding time.
Visiting the aquarium is perfect for anyone who loves sea life. Make sure to buy your tickets online on their site to get their best price and guarantee admission. Groups of 10+ can get discounted rates so it can be the perfect place to invite a group of friends and family to spend your birthday with.
3. Visit Gatorland
Gatorland is an unforgettable destination in Orlando that appeals to animal enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Dubbed the “Alligator Capital of the World,” visitors here have the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with hundreds of alligators, crocodiles, and other reptiles.
On over 100 acres, you can see alligators and crocodiles of all shapes and sizes with even rare white leucistic alligators. Enjoy the free-flight aviary, petting zoo, animals shows, Gator Zip Line, and the Gator Off-Road Adventure.
There is plenty of fun to be had at Gatorland and an adventurous way to spend a birthday in Orlando. Be sure to be on the lookout for special deals and coupons on their site to get loads of fun for less.
4. Experience a Day at the Spa
Are you looking to unwind on your birthday in Orlando? There are plenty of spa options to choose from, from luxurious resort spas to more budget-friendly day spas. Make the most of it by treating yourself to an indulgent spa day!
One popular destination is The Ritz-Carlton Spa, which provides an array of treatments like massages, facials, body scrubs, and more. The spa boasts a serene atmosphere with private treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, and a heated lap pool for added enjoyment.
5. Visit the Orlando Eye
The Orlando Eye is an iconic observation wheel that provides breathtaking views of both the city and its environs. Situated along International Drive, this popular landmark draws both tourists and residents alike to experience Orlando from a unique vantage point.
The wheel stands 400 feet tall and offers air-conditioned capsules that can accommodate up to 15 people. As it rotates, visitors can take in breathtaking views of Orlando’s theme parks, downtown area, and even Kennedy Space Center on clear days.
6. SeaWorld Orlando
At SeaWorld Orlando, you get the best of both worlds – an aquarium and amusem*nt park all in one. You get to see many exotic species including orcas, dolphins, walruses, belugas, sea lions and so much more. With many of these animals you can book a special encounter that will take you up close, including the fan favorite, their dolphin encounter.
For an unforgettable birthday experience, book any one of their VIP tours that will take you behind the scenes with an expert guide, gives you front-of-the-line access, and reserved seating at some of their most popular shows. This can even include the all-day dining but you can still purchase it separately if you choose not to do a VIP tour.
See the marine life, conquer the rides, play with dolphins, and go on the paddle boats for a relaxing end to your day. With so much adventure and one-of-a-kind experiences, SeaWorld can be the perfect place to spend a birthday in Orlando.
7. Experience Florida’s Natural Beauty Through an Airboat Tour
Spend your birthday exploring the natural splendor of Florida by taking an airboat tour through the Everglades. This thrilling activity allows you to take in all kinds of wildlife like alligators, birds, and turtles while getting a unique perspective into this ecosystem.
With airboats you don’t need a driver or rental car – they just need an aircraft engine and a large fan to navigate shallow waters and glide over vegetation. Enjoy stunning views of alligators, birds, and turtles as you observe wildlife such as alligators, birds, and turtles while getting an insight into how a unique ecosystem exists within these waters – what a special way to spend your birthday!
8. Experience the Beauty and Serenity of Harry P. Leu Gardens
Situated just minutes from Downtown Orlando, The Harry P. Leu Gardens are 50 acres of tropical foliage featuring exotic flowers, towering trees, and vibrant plants from around the world.
Visitors to the gardens can take a leisurely walk and savor the sights and smells of various flowers and plants, or join a guided tour for more insight into its history and unique features. One popular area is the Butterfly Garden, which features native butterflies as well as plants that attract them.
9. Experience an unforgettable birthday at a dinner theater
For an unforgettable and enjoyable birthday celebration, why not check out one of Orlando’s many dinner theaters? These establishments combine live performances with delicious meals to provide guests with an unforgettable evening of joy.
One of Orlando’s most beloved dinner theaters is Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show, which offers a comedic murder mystery performance that engages guests in solving the crime. Taking place over three courses, guests are treated to various clues and twists throughout the evening.
10. Experience a thrilling sporting event
Sports fans in Orlando can find an exciting way to commemorate a birthday by attending one of its professional teams or world-class facilities. With so many options, Orlando provides something for everyone when it comes to celebrating a milestone in sports.
One popular team to watch is Orlando City Soccer Club, which competes in Major League Soccer. They play their matches at the state-of-the-art Exploria Stadium located in downtown Orlando. The atmosphere at the stadium is electric with passionate fans cheering on their team and plenty of food and drink options available.
11. Visit the Orlando Science Center
For science aficionados of all ages, the Orlando Science Center is an ideal destination. Spread across four floors, its interactive exhibits, displays, and demonstrations explore various fields of science and technology.
At Orlando Science Center, visitors can explore interactive exhibits on physics and motion in the Kinetic Zone; our Planet exhibit looks into Earth’s ecosystem; plus there’s a large dinosaur exhibit complete with life-sized models and engaging displays.
12. Celebrate a Birthday with a Picnic
In Orlando, having a picnic is an easy and enjoyable way to mark a special occasion. With its glorious weather and many parks, there are plenty of spots where you can set up a blanket and enjoy some food outdoors.
One popular picnic spot in Orlando is Lake Eola Park, situated right downtown. Here you’ll find a large lake with a fountain, walking paths, a playground, and plenty of shaded areas for picnicking. Additionally, there are numerous food vendors and cafes nearby so that you can easily pick up supplies for your picnic.
13. Experience an unforgettable hot air balloon ride
Celebrating a birthday in Orlando should not be missed! This experience offers breathtaking views of the area, such as theme parks, lakes, and wildlife – making it the perfect way to mark this momentous milestone.
Orlando offers several companies that offer hot air balloon rides, many of which begin early in the morning to take advantage of calm winds and cooler temperatures. As passengers ascend into the air, they can savor peace and serenity as they take in breathtaking views below. Some tours even include a champagne toast and a full breakfast afterward – making for an unforgettable celebration!
14. Central Florida Zoo
The Central Florida Zoo offers a fun-filled day at one of the best zoos in Florida. There are amphibians, invertebrates, birds, mammals and reptiles. By visiting each one of these exhibits you will get to see a large variety of animals.
Throughout the zoo, the botanical gardens add to the experience. The butterfly garden has a wide variety of shrubs and trees that are planted to attract butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Other attractions at the zoo include zipline courses, animal feedings, and animal encounters.
15. Visit the Orlando Museum of Art
For art enthusiasts in Orlando, a visit to the Orlando Museum of Art is a must-visit destination. Here, visitors will find an eclectic collection of works, from contemporary and modern pieces to pieces from ancient cultures and civilizations.
One of the highlights of the museum is its American Art collection, featuring works by renowned artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Edward Hopper. Additionally, there is a display of African Art as well as items from ancient American cultures like Mayans and Aztecs.
16. Play mini-golf
Mini-golf is an enjoyable activity for the whole family that makes for a perfect birthday celebration in Orlando. With its many themed courses and challenging obstacles, mini-golf provides an entertaining way to spend quality time with loved ones.
Congo River Golf is one of Orlando’s top mini-golf destinations, boasting several courses with African-themed decor and obstacles like waterfalls and caves. These courses are suitable for players of all ages and skill levels – making it a great choice for families with children.
17. Experience Orlando’s food scene through a food tour
Food tours offer culinary connoisseurs an exclusive opportunity to explore the city’s culinary scene and sample some of its most delicious dishes. Food tours make for a wonderful way to celebrate birthdays in Orlando!
One popular food tour in Orlando is the Downtown Orlando Food Tour, which takes participants on a walking tour of downtown Orlando while stopping at various restaurants and cafes along the way. This three-hour experience includes tastings of various dishes and drinks as well as insights into the history and culture of the region.
18. Swim With Manatees
Crystal River is just under two hours of a drive from Orlando but it is one of the best ways to spend a birthday. There, you will get to swim with manatees in one of Florida’s most beautiful natural springs.
The Three Sisters Springs allows you to kayak through the springs to find manatees to swim with. If your birthday falls in the winter months, then it is the perfect time to visit since there are hundreds of manatees.
However, in the summer months there are still manatees to find since some manatees stay in the river year long. Plus, it’s the perfect time to go scalloping which Crystal River is known for in the summer months.
19. Planet Obstacle
Planet Obstacle is the world’s largest indoor obstacle course and it’s loads of fun for all ages but especially for the kids. They welcome parties regularly so they have party packages that include admission, decorations, and party setup and cleanup. You can also choose a package with a food option which will include three pizzas of your choice.
At the obstacle course you will find, aerial ropes and zip line, ninja warrior course, bumper cars, rock climbing walls, foam pits and so much more. It is one of the most fun places to spend your birthday in Orlando.
20. Celebrate Your Orlando Birthday at the Beach
Celebrating a birthday in Orlando with a day trip to the beach is always a classic idea, particularly for those who appreciate sun, sand, and surf. Fortunately, Orlando is conveniently situated close to several stunning beaches that make planning a day trip effortless.
Orlando residents and visitors often head to Daytona Beach, located an hour northeast of the city. This 23-mile stretch of golden sands offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Plus it’s home to its iconic Daytona Beach Pier with plenty of shops, restaurants, and amusem*nts.
