Different Things To Do In Orlando Florida – Your Guide To Natural
Think Orlando is just mouse ears, roller coasters, and endless lines? For most travelers, it is. But for those of us who feel more at home with a paddle in hand than a park map, that version of Orlando barely scratches the surface.
I promise you, a wild, authentic Florida is hiding in plain sight, just minutes from the theme park chaos. This is a place of crystal-clear springs, ancient cypress swamps, and quiet trails where the only sounds are birdsong and the rustle of unseen wildlife.
This guide will show you exactly how to find it. We’ll explore the best different things to do in orlando florida, from kayaking the headwaters of the Everglades to swimming in turquoise springs and hiking through pristine nature preserves. Get ready to see a side of Central Florida you never knew existed.
Why Ditch the Crowds? The Benefits of Different Things to Do in Orlando Florida
Choosing to explore the natural side of Orlando isn’t just about avoiding crowds; it’s about gaining a richer, more rewarding experience. It’s a chance to connect with a genuine ecosystem and build real outdoor skills.
One of the biggest benefits of different things to do in orlando florida is the deep connection to nature. Instead of simulated experiences, you’re paddling through a living river, spotting alligators sunning on the bank, or feeling the refreshing chill of a 72-degree spring.
This approach is also inherently more sustainable. By supporting state parks and preserves, you contribute directly to the conservation of these vital habitats. It’s a perfect example of eco-friendly different things to do in orlando florida, where your adventure helps protect the very environment you’re enjoying.
Plus, it’s a chance to slow down. The outdoors doesn’t have a schedule or a closing time. You can move at your own pace, whether that’s a leisurely float down a natural lazy river or a challenging hike through a pine flatwood forest.
Paddling Paradise: Kayaking and Canoeing Central Florida’s Waterways
Central Florida is a paddler’s dream, defined by slow-moving blackwater creeks, spring-fed rivers, and sprawling lakes. Getting on the water is one of the most immersive ways to experience the region’s wild heart.
Shingle Creek: The Headwaters of the Everglades
Just miles from the tourist corridor, you can paddle the northernmost headwaters of the entire Everglades ecosystem. Shingle Creek is a cypress-lined waterway that feels a world away from civilization.
The slow current makes it perfect for beginners. As you paddle, keep an eye out for wading birds, turtles, and the occasional alligator. We recommend a stable recreational kayak like an Old Town Heron 9 or a quality inflatable like the Sea Eagle 370 if you’re traveling.
Pro Tip: Always pack more water than you think you’ll need in a hydration pack like a CamelBak, wear a PFD (personal flotation device), and let someone know your float plan before you go.
Wekiwa Springs State Park: Paddling on Crystal-Clear Water
Wekiwa Springs offers a truly stunning paddling experience. The water flowing from the spring is exceptionally clear, allowing you to see fish and turtles swimming beneath your boat.
You can paddle the Wekiwa River or head up the Rock Springs Run for a more shaded, intimate adventure. One of the common problems with different things to do in orlando florida at popular spots like this is crowds. The park often closes due to reaching capacity, so arrive early, especially on weekends.
Paddling with Manatees at Blue Spring State Park
In the cooler months (typically November to March), Blue Spring becomes a critical warm-water refuge for hundreds of West Indian manatees. Paddling on the St. Johns River adjacent to the spring run offers incredible viewing opportunities.
This is where a sustainable different things to do in orlando florida mindset is crucial. Regulations are strict: you cannot enter the spring run itself and must maintain a safe, respectful distance from the manatees. Never pursue, touch, or feed them. Observing these gentle giants from your kayak is an unforgettable, low-impact experience.
Spring Hopping and Wild Swimming: Florida’s Natural Coolers
Florida’s natural springs are geological wonders, pumping millions of gallons of cool, clear water from the aquifer to the surface every day. The water stays a constant 72°F (22°C) year-round, making them the perfect antidote to the Florida heat.
Kelly Park / Rock Springs Run: A Natural Lazy River
This is a local favorite for a reason. Rock Springs emerges from a cave and flows for about a mile through the park, creating a natural lazy river. You can rent a tube outside the park or bring your own to float the crystal-clear run.
We highly recommend wearing sturdy water shoes like Keens or Chacos. The limestone rocks on the bottom can be sharp and slippery. This simple piece of gear makes the experience much safer and more enjoyable.
Wekiwa Springs: A Classic Swimming Hole
The large, open swimming area at the headspring of Wekiwa is a fantastic place to cool off. The grassy hill leading down to the water is perfect for laying out a blanket and relaxing after a hike or paddle.
The swimming area is well-defined and shallow around the edges, making it a good option for families. Just be prepared for that initial shock—72 degrees feels colder than you’d think!
A Hiker’s Guide to Different Things to Do in Orlando Florida
While Florida is known for being flat, it offers surprisingly diverse and beautiful hiking trails. This different things to do in orlando florida guide wouldn’t be complete without exploring the trails that wind through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and cypress swamps.
Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area
Named for a massive, 200-year-old live oak that was split down the middle (and survived), this preserve protects a vital tract of Central Florida wilderness. The trails here are sandy and showcase the gopher tortoise habitat.
Navigation is key. While the trails are marked, it’s always smart to have a map and a compass or a reliable GPS app like AllTrails Pro on your phone. Good trail etiquette and awareness are part of the different things to do in orlando florida best practices.
Tibet-Butler Preserve
This preserve is an excellent spot for new hikers or those wanting an easy but rewarding walk. A well-maintained system of trails and boardwalks takes you through several distinct Florida ecosystems in a short amount of time.
The elevated boardwalks offer a safe and dry way to see the cypress swamp, a magical environment teeming with life. This is a great place to practice your wildlife photography and plant identification skills.
Orlando Wetlands Park
For birding enthusiasts, this is paradise. Orlando Wetlands Park is a man-made wetland designed to polish reclaimed water, and it has become a world-class birding destination.
Bring a good pair of binoculars, like the Vortex Diamondback HD 8×42, to get a closer look at the incredible variety of wading birds, raptors, and migratory species. The best viewing is typically in the early morning or late afternoon.
Essential Gear and Safety: Your Orlando Adventure Care Guide
Venturing into Florida’s outdoors requires a bit of planning. The environment is beautiful but can be unforgiving if you’re unprepared. Following this different things to do in orlando florida care guide ensures your adventure is safe and memorable for the right reasons.
Managing the Florida Sun and Heat
The heat and humidity are no joke, even outside of summer. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are serious risks.
- Hydrate Constantly: Drink water before, during, and after your activity. Add electrolyte tablets like Nuun to your water to replenish lost salts.
- Sun Protection: Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Better yet, wear lightweight, long-sleeved UPF-rated clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Time Your Outing: Plan strenuous activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun.
Wildlife Encounters (The Safe Way)
You are a visitor in their home. Respecting wildlife is the number one rule.
- Alligators: They are common in almost any body of freshwater. Keep a safe distance (at least 60 feet), and never, ever feed them. Keep pets on a short leash and away from the water’s edge.
- Snakes: Most snakes you see will be non-venomous. Watch where you step, especially in tall grass or near logs. If you see one, give it a wide berth and let it go on its way.
- Insects: Mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and ticks can be prevalent. Use an effective insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, especially in shaded, damp areas.
Leave No Trace: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Exploration
The best way to care for these beautiful places is to leave them better than you found them. Adhering to the seven Leave No Trace principles is fundamental for any responsible outdoor enthusiast.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly (Pack it in, pack it out)
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts (Use designated rings only)
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions About Different Things to Do in Orlando Florida
What is the best time of year for outdoor activities in Orlando?
The best time is from October through April. The weather is cooler and drier, humidity is lower, and biting insects are less of a problem. The winter months are also the peak season for viewing manatees in the springs.
Are these outdoor activities family-friendly?
Absolutely. Many places, like Kelly Park’s lazy river, the swimming area at Wekiwa Springs, and the boardwalk trails at Tibet-Butler Preserve, are perfect for families with children. Always assess the difficulty of a trail or paddle before heading out with little ones.
Do I need to worry about alligators?
You need to be aware, not afraid. Alligators are naturally wary of humans. The key is to be “gator-aware”: never swim in undesignated areas (especially at dusk or dawn), keep a respectful distance, and never feed them. This prevents them from associating humans with food.
Can I camp near these locations?
Yes! Several state parks offer excellent camping facilities. Wekiwa Springs State Park has a beautiful, shaded campground. Moss Park and Kelly Park also offer camping. Reservations, especially for weekends and holidays, are highly recommended and can often be made months in advance.
Orlando is so much more than its theme parks. It’s a gateway to the real, wild Florida—a place of quiet beauty, thrilling wildlife, and unforgettable adventures.
By stepping off the beaten path, you not only get a more unique travel experience but also build your confidence and skills as an outdoor explorer. You learn to read the weather, navigate a trail, and paddle a river, all while connecting with the natural world.
So next time you’re in Central Florida, pack your hiking shoes and your sense of adventure. The springs, rivers, and forests are waiting. Explore confidently and travel smart!
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