If you are vacationing with children in Orlando, you will likely find yourself in the International Drive Entertainment District at some point. Commonly known as “I-Drive,” this bustling tourist strip is packed with attractions, such as The Wheel at ICON Park and SEA LIFE Aquarium. The neighborhood captures all the excitement and thrills that Orlando has to offer, making it the city's main destination for entertainment and fun.
Welcome to International Drive, the epicenter of Central Florida's world-famous vacation destinations. The bustling 11-mile stretch affectionately known as Orlando’s Main Street is home to an incredible array of family-friendly dining options, top-notch breweries, theme parks, amusement parks, and a diverse assortment of tourist attractions that cater to every taste and interest. This neighborhood is a particular favorite among families because of the abundance of activities that promise to keep children entertained. From iconic amusement parks, quirky museums, and interactive science centers to adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, water parks, indoor skydiving, helicopter tours, and celebrity wax attractions, there's no chance for a dull moment to creep into your family vacation. For those who like to keep their feet on the ground, International Drive also offers experiences like mesmerizing aquariums, chocolate factories, video arcades, virtual reality centers, and escape rooms. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that International Drive is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking the best of Orlando.
International Drive is about a 20-minute car ride from the Orlando Airport, making it easily accessible by rental car, taxi, or car share. Many of the resorts in the International Drive area offer free shuttles to and from the airport. For those who prefer public transportation, the Line 42 bus offers a convenient route between the airport and the neighborhood. Keep in mind that the journey takes approximately an hour.
If you love live music like me, be sure to check out the Tin Roof. The music-focused restaurant combines live music with delicious Southern-inspired cuisine over its two stages and three outdoor patios. You never know what band you will discover there.
ICON Park is a must-visit entertainment hub in Orlando. The 20-acre complex is home to more than 50 attractions, dining options, and shopping experiences that cater to all ages and interests. The centerpiece of ICON Park is The Wheel, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel that provides breathtaking panoramic views of Orlando’s skyline. Beyond The Wheel, guests can explore attractions such as SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and the Orlando StarFlyer.
When hunger strikes, the park offers dining options ranging from Bavarian pretzels to pizza to Cuban sandwiches. You can explore specialty boutiques or unwind on the central lawn, which hosts special events and entertainment on weekends all year round. The presence of a Hookah Bar within the park highlights its determination to cater to the diverse interests of all visitors.
Restaurants tend to reach capacity quickly during the peak of tourist season. If there is a restaurant or two you know you want to eat dinner at while you are in town, it is best to make reservations as far in advance as possible to ensure you get a table at a reasonable hour.
For more than two decades, Fun Spot America has combined a traditional amusement park atmosphere with thrilling rides suitable for the entire family. With more than 25 rides to choose from, notable attractions include the White Lightning wooden roller coaster, the inverted Freedom Flyer steel roller coaster, the gravity-defying Enterprise, and the world’s second-highest SkyCoaster. Additionally, families can enjoy less-intense classic rides like bumper cars, go-karts, and the Ferris wheel. Fun Spot America uses a pay-per-ride system that makes the experience more affordable by allowing guests to only pay for the rides they use.
Stop by Congo River Adventure Golf for a round of family golf. Set amidst lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and mysterious caves, this 18-hole mini-golf course transports players to an African jungle adventure. When not shooting for a hole-in-one, players can also enjoy engaging with interactive exhibits and feeding live alligators. This adventurous twist on mini golf makes Congo River Adventure Golf an entertaining option for both families and casual golfers.
Titanic and history lovers will enjoy the Titanic Museum along International Drive. The Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into the historic ship’s tragic voyage. Visitors can explore full-scale, meticulously recreated rooms – such as the Promenade Deck, Veranda Café, Parlor Suite, and Boiler Room – and view more than 300 artifacts recovered from the shipwreck, as well as hearing moving stories of its passengers. This interactive experience provides a deeper understanding of the Titanic’s legacy and the events that led to the disastrous morning of April 15, 1912.
From budget-friendly motels and hotels to luxury resorts, visitors can choose the perfect lodging option for their stay. For families seeking a fun-filled experience, the Coco Key Hotel and Water Resort provides both comfort and entertainment with its on-site water park. Travelers seeking luxury can indulge in the upscale Rosen Shingle Creek with its resort-style amenities, like a lush golf course, spa, and fine dining restaurants. Those seeking a family-friendly stay might consider Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with its vintage-themed rooms and multiple pools. For those looking for a balance of affordability and convenience, the Avanti International Resort offers comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby attractions.
The I-Drive district offers a seemingly endless array of options for activities and entertainment to keep your kids engaged (and tire them out) with fun. No one in the family can claim boredom with theme park options like Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and Aquatica, the 20-acre ICON Park entertainment complex, and activities like golf, escape rooms, chocolate factories, and mini-amusement parks. On top of everything, the area offers family-friendly dining options to keep you fueled up in between joy rides.
