No need to panic, there are over 25 things to do in Orlando at night with family. Even if the theme parks are what brought you to the city, they are not the only source of a good time.
Every major city takes on a new life at night. Bars and clubs come alive, but these are not often family friendly. Spending all day at a Theme Park is an adventure for sure, but in the evening, you might need a change of pace. When you come to Orlando with your family, it is good to know where you can go at night to continue the fun.
Most cities light up at night, but kids are not always invited. But fun can still be had at several venues across the city. Fun for the whole family. We have the top 25 things to do in Orlando with your family at night.
Table of Contents
Things To Do In Orlando At Night With Family
1. Universal City Walk
Located just outside the park, this is a great place to end your day. It is a great place to spend any night, even if you were not at the park. This promenade is three blocks long and full of restaurants, outlets, and fun venues.
Choose from one of many dining options including Bubba Gump Shrimp, Hard Rock Cafe, and Mexican street food. Retail outlets offer brands you know and bargains you will love. The Universal Studio Store is a favorite for the kids. Top off the night by watching a movie at the I-Max theater.
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2. Helicopter Night Tour
Get a different view of the city. Orlando at night from the skies. You depart from Kissimmee Gateway and get to see every hot spot in Orlando. Get a bird’s eye view of Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and all that Orlando has to offer.
After a short safety briefing your trip will get underway. Through the tour, landmarks will be pointed out and you are guaranteed the best viewing spot for the Disney World fireworks.
3. The Escape Game
Rated as one of the best places for fun in Orlando, the Escape Room is a satisfying adventure. Find your inner detective and explore the rotating portfolio of rooms and situations. Choose your escape from The Heist, Gold Rush, Prison Break, Mission: Mars and more.
Each room is different in style, different in skill level, and centers on a different concept. Don’t enjoy the room too much though, because you need to escape before time is up.
The Escape Room is a great way to bond with the family. All your decisions matter and you need to work together to escape. Take note that it is only suited for ages 12 and up.
4. Orlando City Soccer Club Game
Orlando City Stadium is home to the great soccer club and a top recreational outlet. Some games are played in the evening, making this a top spot for the family. This local team is a recent addition to the Major League soccer organization.
Show your support for one of the top teams in North America and enjoy an exciting game. Check ahead for games to see when they are playing in the evenings. And don’t forget to grab your commemorative purple jersey after the game.
5. Dine At The World’s Largest McDonald’s
It may be the same McDonald’s grub you can get back home, but when you are sitting in the largest one in the country, the experience is something unique. It is worth stopping by here for one meal during your stay.
It is not every day you get to eat at a building shaped like large fries. A touch-screen ordering system helps get food ordered and delivered faster. You can also get wings, pasta, salads, and pizza here and a full dessert bar.
After you eat, enjoy the arcade games scattered around. There is more to this McDonald’s than any other and it is definitely worth the visit.
6. Dine and Play At Dave and Buster’s
Dave & Buster’s is a well-known and popular venue. Locations are all around the country. The one in Orlando is also worth visiting for a fun night out with the family.
Play arcade games, watch sports, eat great food, and parents can enjoy a cocktail. It is a win-win for everyone. It is also the perfect place for fun at night if the weather is not cooperating. And you don’t have to wait for hours to play.
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7. Watch A Movie At The Plaza Cinema Cafe
If you spent the day walking around, take the evening off to relax. Grab some popcorn and enjoy a movie at the Plaza Cinema Cafe. Relax on oversized leather seats, with your favorite movie snacks.
Adults can enjoy a drink from the bar too. The tickets and food are inexpensive, and the movies are great. A high-quality surround sound system makes the movie all too real. For the perfect place to unwind at night, bring the family to the movies.
8. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
Another well-known entertainment venue, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not presents a world of incredible and bizarre exhibits. For the naturally curious, this is the place to go. Wrap your brain around the oddest, most bizarre, and strange sights.
One thing is for sure, you will be captivated. Ripley’s stays open to midnight so is a great spot to hang out after dinner. Kids will enjoy the pool room with its space and balance illusions. You can also explore the Berlin Wall. The only thing believable is that you are certain to be entertained.
9. Popcorn Flicks In The Park
Another great spot to relax and watch a good flick is in Winter Park. Family-based classic movies play on the second Thursday each month (weather permitting) allowing you to relax under the stars. The best part is that they are free and open to everyone. You just need to bring your own snacks.
Check ahead for the showings and have a back-up plan in case it rains. The Plaza Cinema Cafe in this list, is a great alternative. But, if you want the outdoor experience and the weather’s nice, stop by Winter Park for your movie.
10. Old Town
Old Town may not sound fun, but the free weekly car shows there certainly are. Every Friday night set your sights on all your favorite American muscle cars or stop by on a Saturday night to see the vintage classics.
Car enthusiasts and families love seeing these great cars. Old Town also offers different festivals through the year and all events are accompanied by live music. Stop by and enjoy the car show for free on one or both evenings.
11. Florida Airboat Adventure At Night
If you are a family of thrill seekers, Florida’s Airboat Adventure Night is a must for your visit. Embark on a 60-minute tour across dark swamps and see the wildlife in their natural habitats. You will not have seen anything like this before.
Tours leave between 7.30 and 8.30 at night and you head out to the swamps in a 17-seater airboat. A tour guide accompanies you, explaining the ways of the alligators. There are several places in Orlando featuring alligators, but to see them at their most natural, this airboat adventure is the only way to go.
12. Evening Kayaking
To get away from the crowds at night, take the family for an evening kayaking adventure. Paddling on calm waters under a starlit sky is a wonderful way to spend a Florida evening.
Some alone time with the people that matter most in a beautiful natural setting. If the whole group likes this scene, check out these evening kayaking tours. There are a few different ones to try.
One of the most popular is the Bioluminescence Tour at Meritt Island. A 90-minute tour along a neon-lit Banana River, Indian River Lagoon, and Wildlife Refuge Center.
13. Madam Tussaud Wax Museum
The world-famous Madam Tussaud wax museum has a location in Orlando. Check out over 200 life-like statues. Strike a pose and take selfies with Taylor Swift, knock out Mohammed Ali, or hang with your favorite superhero.
Batman, Aquaman, Superman, and Wonder Woman are all there. Your favorites from movies, TV, and music are all ready to hang out with you, take pictures, and create unforgettable memories.
14. The Orlando Eye
As one of the newest attractions in Orlando, the Orlando Eye is a majestic and exciting ride. This 400-foot Ferris wheel towers over the heart of Orlando and is owned by the same organization that brought the London Eye to life.
Not only do you get to enjoy the ride, but you will remain suspended over the city to get a truly spectacular view. When visibility is at its peak, enjoy views of Cape Canaveral and the downtown Orlando skyline.
No need to worry about the weather outside because each capsule is temperature controlled to keep you comfortable.
15. Indoor Kart Racing
For the energetic members of the family, head for Indoor Kart Racing. Perfect for thrills and excitement and a great option for rainy nights. Andretti Indoor Karting and Games is full of adrenaline pumping fun for the whole family.
When you’re done racing, head to the arcade to play over 60 trendy and retro games. Further explore your competitive side with a game of bowling or play a game of pool. Whatever you need to sustain energy levels.
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16. Wonderworks
The upside-down building is not the only amusing thing about Wonderworks, although this is what gets your attention. A visit to Wonderworks will turn your whole world upside down.
Enjoy interactive games and look through unconventional artifacts. There are hundreds of games and attractions to keep you amused all night long.
Experience an earthquake, lie on a bed of nails, become a human lightning rod, ride a virtual roller coaster, walk a tightrope and fly the zip line. There is no wackier adventure out there. When it is time for a bite to eat, the Outta Control dinner show delivers good food and comic performances.
17. Bowling
The I-Drive 360 Complex is home to the King’s Bowl, which is one of the best nighttime entertainment spots in Orlando. The large 3,000 square foot complex has over 20 bowling lanes, 15 shuffleboards, 20 ping pong tables, pool tables, and a giant bocce court.
Bowling lanes all come with top-quality facilities and gaming choices. Take a food break from the fun for pizza. Adults can opt for steak and a few craft beers. The I-Drive Complex is a fantastic spot for all-around family fun.
18. Medieval Times Dinner Show
Take in an 11th century show and dinner at Medieval Times. This European-style live dinner show is awe-inspiring to say the least. Shaped like a castle with exotic artifacts, armor, and decor from the 11th century, you feel like you have gone back in time.
The cast are adorned in Spanish coats from only the most prestigious of families. Watch in awe as two horsemen battle with swords and others show off their fine falconry skills. Dine on a gourmet dinner full of all the 11th century delicacies and delights.
19. Amway Center
Stop at Amway Center to watch the Orlando Magic play a game. Be sure to check the schedules ahead to make sure they are playing at home. The vibe is full of excitement and enthusiasm and concessions are there for your every food and drink need.
Visit the home of the ever-popular Eastern Conference team and take-home one-of-a-kind souvenirs. There is nothing like watching a game live. The TV at home just does not offer the same excitement.
If you are visiting off season, check the website, as the Center also hosts other events during the year to entertain.
20. Fun Spot America
Fun is in the name and that is all that is to be had when you spend the night here. Ride roller coasters or go-karts and play arcade games. This smaller theme park has all the excitement of the larger ones, without waiting in long lines.
The go-karts are the most popular attraction here. If that is not your speed, try the only wooden roller coaster in the city. For the adrenaline seekers in the family, the SkyCoaster Ride is a 300ft coaster that gives you the ride of your life.
For the less adventurous, hang out in the arcade and play hundreds of games, from classic and retro to the most popular video games of today.
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21. Mango’s Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show
Mango’s Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show is a great place to grab dinner in the evening. You get a little more than food. Along with a delicious three-course meal, you get entertainment and live dancing performances.
A live band plays all night while dancers do the Brazilian Samba or the Cuban Conga. One of the most popular shows is a tribute to Michael Jackson. The atmosphere is always a buzz and is a great place for families. Book ahead to make sure you get the best tables for viewing the entertainment.
22. Chip ‘N Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long
For a night of free fun in Orlando, head to the Campfire Sing-A-Ling at Disney’s Wilderness Resort. You do not have to be a guest to enjoy the singing and fun.
Kids of all ages enjoy this nightly event, The evening finishes with a classic Disney movie and a picture with Chip and Dale. This is a must for those looking to enjoy a night under the stars with some good old-fashioned Disney fun.
23. The Florida Mall
For those nights when you need a little break from the excitement, the Florida Mall is open late. Shopping in Florida isn’t just about Mickey Mouse ears and Orlando goodies. The Florida Mall is a perfect place for shopping, whether you buy or just window shop.
This is the largest shopping center in Central Florida and has all the names in retail that you love. A delicious food court keeps you energized as you shop. Kids can play at the indoor play area or head to the Crayola Adventure for a truly colorful experience.
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24. Disney Boardwalk
This quarter-mile promenade is Disney’s answer to City Walk. Similar in concept but with a different style. Shop in unique shopping outlets, dine at gourmet spots, and play midway games.
Boardwalk entertainers will dance and perform around you and make sure you catch the dueling pianos show. A surrey bike for 4 is a great way to cruise the boardwalk in true family-style. Don’t forget to grab one of the many to-go sweet treats offered before you head home.
25. Lake Eola Park
The perfect place for a stroll in nature is Lake Eola Park. A safe and beautiful place for the family to unwind. The park also hosts numerous free events in the evenings to entertain you.
Twice a night, light shows over the lake dazzle you, movies play in the park during the summer months, and there are always free concerts at the nearby Walt Disney Amphitheater.
Helpful Tips For Finding Things To Do In Orlando At Night With Family
When looking for things to do in Orlando at night with the family, it is important to evaluate each place based on the ages of your family. Some families include grandma too, so the louder places may not be the best option.
Some of the top attractions have rides that are for older children only, but many will also offer games and rides for smaller children too. The outdoor events are suited to all ages. Remember to think of who is going and what is offered, to make sure everyone in the group has a good time.
Final Thoughts
Most people visiting Orlando come for Disney World and Universal Studios. This means the family goes too. In the evenings, the city stays lively, but many venues are for adults.
There are however, plenty of venues and fun spots for the whole family. Even those geared for kids end up fun for the adults too. These 25 things to do in Orlando at night with family are guaranteed to end every day of your trip on a high note.
