Active Things to Do in Orlando with Kids This Summer in 2025
School’s out, and the kids are home?
A visit to a theme park or a staycation might sound cool, but let’s face it, parents’ schedules don’t take a summer break. Heading to those fancy Disney-style outings means juggling work and routines, hours of driving, $500 tickets (plus extras), and the stamina to face Florida’s soaring heat index.
To make sure finding things to do in Orlando with kids is super easy and stress-free for you, we’ve made a list of 7 summer activities for kids in Orlando that are fun, flexible, and full of character-building potential. Even better, they’re realistic and manageable for working parents or anyone who’s on a tight budget in 2025.
This list has activities that keep children active, engaged, and off the screens. What’s more, they’ll learn a lot of new things when biking through trails or thriving in summer camps. For parents, it’s a win-win because these are low-cost, low-stress, and high on fun activities. While your kids are engaged, you won’t be worn out!
Kids’ summer camp activities that build character.
Playgrounds and splash pads are cool, but summer camp activities for kids can teach your children how to develop discipline, explore new interests, and be independent. Don’t forget, here they will learn some real-life skills too.
Playgrounds and splash pads are cool, but summer camp activities for kids can teach your children how to develop discipline, explore new interests, and be independent. Don’t forget, here they will learn some real-life skills too.
Activity 1: Guto Campos BJJ Summer Camp
Guto Campos BJJ Summer Camp keeps kids active while teaching real-life skills. If you are living in Winter Park, Maitland or any surrounding neighborhood, you’ll find this fun summer activity for kids at hardly 20 minutes of driving.
This summer camp will keep your kids active and fit while teaching them how to defend themselves against bullies with Brazilian jiu-jitsu. You’ll be able to impart things like respect, teamwork, self-defense, and perseverance early in their lives. It’s worth investing in a summer camp that contributes to character building.
- Ages: 4+
- Location: 1064 Lee Rd, Orlando
- Duration: Weekly sessions in June and July
- Best for: Building confidence, physical fitness, and discipline
- Learn More: BJJ Summer Camp
Also note: Guto Campos BJJ Academy offers a free trial for anyone who wishes to explore Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Activity 2: Mead Botanical Garden Summer Camp
The 47-acre Mead Botanical Garden in Winter Park is a natural haven for kids who love exploring the outdoors. If you’re searching for summer activities for kids near me that combine learning and movement, this nature camp is a perfect match.
It’s a great way to help children move their bodies, learn wildlife observation, and develop a deeper connection to the environment, all while having fun in the shade of Florida’s native trees.
- Ages: 5–12
- Location: S Denning Dr, Winter Park
- Duration: Weeklong sessions during summer
- Best for: Curious kids who enjoy nature exploration
- Learn More: Young Naturalist Summer Camp
Outdoor adventures that don’t require a theme park budget.
Not every outdoor adventure needs to be a road trip or require wristbands. If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Orlando that don’t break the bank, these simple outdoor options are a great place to start.
They let kids move, explore, and burn off energy, while parents can relax, join in, or just enjoy the break without planning a full-day itinerary.
Activity 3: West Orange Trail
Stretching over 22 miles, this trail in Winter Garden, Apopka, and Oakland is perfect for a family bike ride or scooter day. Kids love spotting butterflies, playgrounds, and rest stops along the way, and shaded paths keep things cool even on warmer days.
It’s a fun way for kids to explore without going too far from home. Whether they’re pedaling fast or taking in little nature finds, the trail offers freedom and discovery in a safe setting.
- Best for: Bike rides, scooters, and casual walks
- Cost: Free
- Effort Level: Easy and self-paced
- Learn More: Orange County FL Parks
Activity 4: Lake Eola Park
In the heart of Downtown Orlando, Lake Eola offers paddleboat rentals, swan watching, open lawn space, and shaded playgrounds. It’s a great midday outing when you want some sun, a picnic, or a relaxed stroll.
Younger kids love the swan boats and open space; it’s calm and fun, perfect for those laid-back things that still feel like a treat.
- Best for: Paddleboats, picnics, and people-watching
- Cost: Free to access (paddleboats extra)
- Effort Level: Minimal, park and play
- Learn More: Lake Eola Park Boating
Indoor energy burners for when it’s too hot or rainy outside.
Orlando summers come with afternoon storms and triple-digit heat indexes. But that doesn’t mean kids have to stay glued to screens. These indoor spots help kids stay active and cool at the same time.
They’re also lifesavers for parents who need a change of scenery and AC.
Activity 5: Planet Obstacle
The world’s largest indoor adventure park in Lake Mary features ninja courses, climbing walls, trampolines, and even indoor zip lines. It’s the kind of place where high-energy kids can jump, swing, and scramble for hours.
Whether they’re racing through obstacle courses or learning to scale new heights, they leave feeling more confident and excited to come back.” It’s one of those things to do in Orlando for kids that wears them out, but in a good way.
- Best for: Nonstop movement and high-energy kids
- Cost: Varies by session.
- Effort Level: High for kids, low for parents
- Learn More: Planet Obstacle
Activity 6: Orlando Science Center
It’s a hands-on discovery zone where kids can look at dinosaur bones, experiment with water flow, build structures, and explore STEM in ways that feel like play.
It’s a fun way to sneak in learning while the kids just think they’re playing. Curious kids won’t even realize how much they’re absorbing while having fun.
- Best for: Interactive learning through play
- Cost: Paid admission
- Effort Level: Low for parents, immersive for kids
- Learn More: Plan Your Visit to Orlando Science Center
Activity 7: Orange County Library’s Summer Reading Program
Books may not burn energy like bikes or trampolines, but they open up entire worlds. The Orange County Library System runs a free summer reading program filled with rewards, events, and challenges that keep kids motivated to read all season long. Many branches also host puppet shows, story times, and STEM activities, ideal for cooler, calmer days.
It’s one of the most meaningful things to do in summer for those who love stories or need a break from high-energy outings.
- Best for: Bookworms, quiet-time seekers, and rainy days
- Cost: Free
- Effort Level: Low, drop in or sign up online
- Learn More: Orange County Location Hours
Summing up!
Summer doesn’t have to mean expensive trips or non-stop screen time.
With just a bit of planning, Orlando offers plenty of ways for kids to stay active, learn, and grow without parents losing their minds (or their budgets). Whether it’s exploring trails, learning self-defense in a summer camp, or simply getting lost in a book, these local activities prove that some of the best summer memories are made close to home.
Pick your first activity, pack some water, and enjoy a summer full of movement, laughter, and simple adventures.
