Orlando may be blessed with mild winters and tropical showers that cool things off from time to time, but for the most part, our summers are HOT. When it’s 90+ degrees outside, outdoor family fun can be exhausting for everyone. Kids can fall victim to heat stroke and dehydration more quickly than adults, who sweat more and adjust faster to heat.
Sunburns also become problematic in summer. The UV index in Florida can reach extreme levels between June and September.
If your family needs a break from the unbearable summer heat, consider an indoor activity as an alternative to theme parks and trips to the lake.
ABC compiled a list of our favorite indoor activities for families in Orlando.
1. The Orlando Science Center
photo by Ebyabe
www.osc.org
This place has something for adults and kids, with educational programming all summer long. The Orlando Science Center offers children a ton of hands-on science and technology-based activities, including laboratory experiments, a fossil digging site, and a mummy exhibit.
2. AirHeads Trampoline Arena
www.airheadsusa.com
If your kids need an opportunity to get moving, AirHeads is a beautiful indoor option. And it’s fun for adults too! Besides the trampolines, AirHeads also offers indoor dodgeball, various arcade games, and a snack bar.
3. WonderWorks
photo by Jaroslaw Binczarowski
www.wonderworksonline.com/orlando/
There are plenty of amusement parks in town, but WonderWorks stands apart from the rest as a uniquely educational and creative experience. Kids can learn about lightning, participate in a ropes course, and visit a gallery of optical illusions.
If you purchase your tickets online, you can save $2.00.
4. Lucky Monkey
www.luckymonkeyorlando.com
Lucky Monkey is like a giant indoor playscape where children aged 1-8 can blow off steam and explore. The attentive staff and healthy food options set Lucky Monkey apart. This place has all of the ball pits and bounce houses you’d find at other indoor play places, but nothing beats the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can relax while your children play.
They also have free wifi!
5. The Emil Buehler Planetarium
www.seminolestate.edu/planet/
Give your kids a glimpse into space with a trip to the planetarium at Seminole State College. The 54-seat planetarium hosts presentations multiple times weekly, including occasional free programs. Seminole faculty, students, and preschool-aged children can go for free anytime.
No matter where your day takes you and your family, being prepared will make things easier.
- Visit business or museum website calendars for children and family discounts.
- Consider guided tours and facilitator-led activities to get the most out of the trip.
- Take along some healthy snacks, especially if you are driving a long distance to get to the museum or activities center.
- Find any lockers for your belongings & locate the restrooms before wandering too far.
- Bring cash or spare change in case there are games.
- Make sure your family is appropriately clothed and wearing comfortable footwear. Some play places require special footwear.