Orlando, Florida, is a summer paradise packed with thrilling theme parks, natural springs, and hidden gems. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping rides, lazy river floats, or unique local experiences, this guide covers the best summer activities in and around Orlando for 2025, complete with travel tips and top Google reviews to help you plan the perfect trip. 1. Universal's Epic Universe (New for 2025!) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Theme Park Review (@themeparkreview) 📍 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL Why Visit? Universal's brand-new theme park opens in May 2025, featuring SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™, and Dark Universe. Expect next-gen rides, immersive lands, and three new hotels. Travel Tip: Buy tickets early—opening months will be crowded. Consider staying at a Universal hotel for early park access. Top Google Review: 'The most anticipated theme park of the decade—worth every penny!' ★★★★★ 2. Discovery Cove (All-Inclusive Dolphin Swim & Snorkeling) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Discovery Cove (@discoverycove) 📍 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL Why Visit? Swim with dolphins, snorkel in The Grand Reef, and relax in tropical lagoons—all with food and drinks included. Travel Tip: Book ahead—daily capacity is limited. The Dolphins Up-Close Tour is a must. Top Google Review: 'Like a private island getaway—unforgettable!' ★★★★★ 3. Kelly Park – Rock Springs (Natural Tubing Adventure) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Onix Pagan y Shakira Rodriguez (@onixysha) 📍 Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL Why Visit? Float down 68°F crystal-clear springs on a 25-minute lazy river ride. Travel Tip: Arrive before 8 AM—park fills fast in summer. Top Google Review: 'The most refreshing escape from Orlando's heat!' ★★★★★ 4. Kennedy Space Center (Day Trip) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kennedy Space Center VC (@kennedyspacecenter) 📍 Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL Why Visit? Meet astronauts, tour rocket launch sites, and experience spaceflight simulators. Travel Tip: Book a guided tour with transport from Orlando. Top Google Review: 'Mind-blowing—even for non-space fans!' ★★★★★ 5. Disney's Blizzard Beach (Frozen-Themed Water Park) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Andrea | Disney for Foodies (@disneyforfoodies) 📍 1534 Blizzard Beach Dr, Orlando, FL Why Visit? Disney's snow-capped water park features one of the world's tallest water slides (Summit Plummet), a lazy river, and kid-friendly play areas with a fun melting ski resort theme. Travel Tip: Visit on weekdays for shorter lines, and don't miss the Melt-Away Bay wave pool. Top Google Review: 'The perfect mix of thrilling slides and relaxing floats - Disney magic meets water park fun!' ★★★★★ 6. Gatorland (Zip Lines & Alligators!) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Official Gatorland Instagram (@gatorland_orlando) 📍 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL Why Visit? Florida's wild side—gator wrestling, zip-lining, and swamp walks. Travel Tip: Visit at feeding times for the best action. Top Google Review: 'Cheaper than Disney and just as wild!' ★★★★★ 7. Clear-Bottom Kayaking at King's Landing View this post on Instagram A post shared by Clear Kayak Tour Company (@getupandgokayaking) 📍 5722 Baptist Camp Rd, Apopka, FL Why Visit? Paddle through Emerald Cut's crystal-clear waters with views of fish and turtles. Travel Tip: Book a sunrise tour for fewer crowds. Top Google Review: 'Like kayaking in an aquarium!' ★★★★★ 8. ICON Park (Free Entry, Paid Attractions) View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICON Park (@iconparkorlando) 📍 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL Why Visit? Ride The Wheel (400 ft tall), visit SEA LIFE Aquarium, and try Madame Tussauds. Travel Tip: Buy a multi-attraction pass to save money. Top Google Review: 'Great for families—something for everyone!' ★★★★★ 9. Bioluminescent Kayaking (Merritt Island) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Florida-Adventurer (@fl_adventurer) 📍 Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Why Visit? Paddle under the stars as the water glows blue from bioluminescent plankton. Travel Tip: Best in June–September. Top Google Review: 'Magical—like Avatar in real life!' ★★★★★ 10. Disney Monorail Pub Crawl View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney Food Blog (@disneyfoodblog) 📍 Stops at Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Contemporary Resorts Why Visit? Sip tropical cocktails while hopping Disney's resorts—no park ticket needed! Travel Tip: Start at Trader Sam's Grog Grotto. Top Google Review: 'The most fun you can have outside the parks!' ★★★★★ More Must-Do Summer Activities 11. LEGOLAND Water Park – Kid-friendly slides & splash zones. 12. Bok Tower Gardens – Stunning gardens & carillon concerts. 13. Andretti Indoor Karting – High-speed racing & arcade games. 14. St. Johns River Dinner Cruise – Romantic sunset dining. 15. Voodoo Doughnut – Wild flavors like 'Bacon Maple'. 16. Cocoa Beach Day Trip – Surfing & SpaceX rocket views. 17. Orlando Science Center – Interactive exhibits & planetarium. 18. Wall Street Plaza Nightlife – Bar-hopping in downtown Orlando. 19. Dezerland Park – Indoor go-karts & vintage car museum. 20. Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour – Historic canals & mansions. Final Travel Tips for Summer 2025 Beat the Heat: Visit water parks early, wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Avoid Crowds: Weekdays are best for theme parks. Save Money: Look for discount bundles (e.g., Go City Pass). Transport: Rent a car for day trips—Uber adds up. Orlando in summer is non-stop fun—whether you're chasing thrills or relaxing in nature. Which of these will you try first? 🚀🌴 Book Your Exploria Resorts Stay Today For more information about Summer Bay Orlando by Exploria Resorts, or any of our luxurious vacation resorts, visit our website at exporiaresorts.com. And check out our limited time offers for ideas about how you can save on your next vacation with Exploria Resorts! * Exploria Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
