family things to do in orlando beyond theme parks

Looking for fun family things to do in Orlando beyond the usual theme parks?

While Disney parks are the go-to attraction, many hidden gems, including delicious restaurants, outdoor excursions, and water parks, can be found.

Whether your family travels to Orlando for a summer vacation, a special birthday, or a getaway, we’ve compiled the best things to do.And if you’re looking for a family-friendly stay, The Grove Resort & Water Park offers spacious suites, complimentary water park access, and a calendar of kid’s activities.

Explore Accommodations

Splash at Surfari Water Park

f you’re looking for the best family things to do in Orlando, The Surfari Water Park can't be missed!

Located at The Grove Resort, Surfari Water Park offers multiple pools, a child’s splash area, several waterslides, a lazy river, and hot tubs.

And for the ultimate experience, treat yourself to a private poolside cabana near the Long Board Bar and Grill for kid-friendly meals and spiked drinks for parents.

Surfari Water Park
Image of the water park

Classic Arcade Games at Flip Flop's Family Center

Nothing beats an evening filled with classic arcade games at Flip Flop’s Family Center.

Located at , the arcade boasts dozens of old-school games like Pacman and air hockey. Plus, kids can redeem points for cool prizes!

Learn About the Arcade
A family enjoy playing with a water gun

Explore Lake Austin

For outdoor lovers, Lake Austin is a great place to kick back and take in nature.

Bring a picnic and enjoy it lakeside, rent a watercraft, or try your hand at fishing. Whatever you choose, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

Explore Lake Austin
A family fishing on a boat

Comfy Movie
Night In

After a long day of exploring Orlando, a comfy movie night in from your suite at The Grove Resort is much needed.

Order a delicious meal to pick up from one of the on-site restaurants, and return to your suite to enjoy it together from the comfort of your space.

Flip a favorite movie on your flatscreen and rest together under the cool air conditioning and crisp sheets of your room.

Explore Family Suites
Mother, father, and daughter in Grove Resort room laughing.

Breakfast at Valencia Restaurant

Treat your family to a leisurely and delicious breakfast at the award-winning Valencia Restaurant.

Just steps from your family suite at The Grove Resort and Water Park, you’ll find an expansive menu of classics like granola and yogurt parfaits, plus more decadent options like buttermilk pancake stacks drizzled with Nutella.

Parents can enjoy freshly brewed coffee to kickstart their day.

Visit Valencia Restaurant
Stack of pancakes with berries on top.

Build a Buddy

Let your imagination run wild as your child chooses a stuffed animal to dress, stuff, and decorate at The Grove Resort’s Build a Buddy event.

From cuddly bears to fluffy unicorns, the options are endless, ensuring every child finds their perfect companion.

This magical event occurs 2-3 times a week at the kid’s center, allowing children to create and make new friends.

Check Out the Resort Calendar
Stuffed animals from Build a Buddy event at Grove Resort.

THE GROVE RESORT & WATER PARK
Getaway with your family with a stay at the kid-friendly Grove Resort & Water Park in Orlando. Offering spacious suites, a complimentary water park, and a kid’s center, you’ll never run out of things to do. So, why wait? Book your family’s weekend getaway now.
BOOK NOW