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Things to Do in Orlando: Before or After Your Cruise

All across the United States and in many areas around the world, people know that Orlando, FL is an exciting tourist destination featuring a wide array of attractions and things to do. If you are planning a vacation to Orlando (Port Canaveral), FL or leaving on a Carnival Cruise to The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico or Bermuda, you’ll want to consider spending a few extra days here before or after the cruise. That way, you’ll be able to partake in the magic that is Orlando!

lake eola park in orlando, florida

From amazing theme parks and world-famous restaurants to beautiful parks, intriguing museums and spectacular shopping, Orlando is simply a city not to be missed. There is so much to see and do in this famous location, but no matter what you choose a day or two will give you some long lasting moments with your friends and family.

Top Attractions in Orlando

The City of Orlando is also known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World”. However, Orlando has much more to offer. From museums, to luxurious spas, here are some of the top attractions you’ll definitively want to partake in before or after your cruise from Orlando. But a visit to one of the theme parks is pretty awesome.

wizarding world at universal florida

Why not try walking through a magical village, where wizardry is real and adventure awaits in every storefront and down each alleyway? If superheroes are more your thing, there are plenty of those too, flying through air, battling alien menaces and defending the public from powerful villains. With a theme park seemingly for every interest from classic 80s nostalgia to futuristic settings, you’ll be sure to find plenty of enjoyment and memories that will last a lifetime.

Museum Attractions in Orlando

See the stars like you’ve never seen them before at a world famous wax museum, discover curiosities and strange facts at the museum of the unbelievable or even go to the science center. The eclectic array of museums in Orlando can often be just as exciting as the theme parks and are not to be missed. There are also plenty of art museums featuring great works by the masters and plenty of new faces as well. There’s no telling what you’ll discover when you visit an Orlando museum.

Nature Attractions

If you’re looking for some exercise, you can’t go wrong with walking along pristine and beautiful nature trails, rowing a boat or kayak on a pristine lake or engaging in some exciting watersports such as jet skiing or waterskiing. Orlando has a great number of parks, lakes and tranquil picnic areas that are just perfect for both exercise and relaxation. For the more adventurous, you can even take a ride in a hot air balloon, go skydiving or swim with the manatees.

boardwalk at Canaveral national seashore

Dining Attractions in Orlando

In this magical city, you can dine with princesses, enjoy a delicious meal while watching a show with your family or simply take in some inexpensive local fare made from fresh ingredients. Fine French dining, rustic Italian, amazing fresh caught seafood and authentic Indian can all be found in Orlando and every culinary delight in between.

Orlando is also no stranger to the craft beer movement. Featuring over a dozen different breweries and taprooms, including an organic beer brewery or a pub that offers a diverse menu that includes vegetarian dishes, there’s a beer for everyone here. If you prefer wine and cocktails in an intimate setting, you won’t be disappointed. Wine bars, cocktail lounges and trendy bars are all close by.

Shopping in Orlando

With some of the largest and most beautiful shopping malls and areas to be found anywhere in the United States, Orlando shops will provide you with the latest fashions, trendy jewelry, fine gifts and much more. Take home a seashell souvenir or a whole new wardrobe!

orlando skyline at sunset

Nearly 70 million tourists choose to visit Orlando every year. So take some time before or after your Carnival Cruise to explore this very special home port with your family. You’ll soon see for yourself why it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. You’ll also find plenty of exciting excursions offered by Carnival Cruises in and about the City of Orlando. Some of the most popular excursions include a tour of the Kennedy Space Center, a visit to Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, ziplining, Universal Studios Florida®, watching aquatic shows at Sea World®, a premium shopping experience at Orlando’s outlets and a kayak adventure.

So, what are you waiting for? Start checking out some of those excursions, as well as planning a few stops of your own. Orlando offers you a multitude of opportunity for fun, excitement, adventure and relaxations, and while you may not be able to do everything in one visit, you’ll certainly want to come back again.