Your romance is hot enough as it is! And while being outside together is proven to be a great way to bond with your partner, it can be exhausting spending time in the Florida sun. Don't let the heat stop you. There are plenty of ways to enjoy outdoor activities together, any time of the year. Explore our outdoor date ideas and the best outdoor places and activities that Orlando has to offer.
By the way, if you have kiddos with you, then hop over to this parent's guide of outdoor places for kids in Orlando.
Outdoor Activities in Orlando and nearby
1. Wekiva Island
Wekiva Island offers tons of outdoor activities while serving as the ideal spot to relax along the river. Kayak, paddleboard, play beach volleyball, or pull up a chair at the outdoor bar or wine bar and listen to live music. Take advantage of all that Central Florida's best swimming hole has to offer, including a refreshing dip in the spring-fed Wekiva River.
For a private experience, rent one of Wekiva Island's cabanas for the afternoon. Weekends fill up fast, and this is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Orlando, so reserve well in advance.
Of course, spending the day in Wekiwa Springs State Park is another great outdoor activity. It's the closest state park in the Orlando area.
2. Orlando Urban Trail
Orlando proudly bears the name The City Beautiful in part due to all the lovely parks and recreation sprinkled throughout the city. The Orlando Urban Trail weaves through some of Orlando’s best spots including Ivanhoe Village, Mead Gardens, and Loch Haven Park.
READ MORE: 9 Bike-Friendly Dates in Orlando
FEATURED IDEA: Get Up and Go Kayaking – Winter Park
Get Up and Go Kayaking – Winter Park offers a unique guided eco-tour experience through the scenic Winter Park Chain of Lakes. Paddling with 100% clear kayaks, guests are treated to a breathtaking view of Winter Park’s stunning nature and charming landscapes.
Located just a short distance from Orlando’s popular attractions and Orlando International Airport, Get Up And Go Kayaking Winter Park's tours provide a unique adventure into nature for both tourists and local residents. Versatile paddling options include daytime tours soaking up the Florida sunshine, romantic paddles at sunset, and enchanting evening adventures.
Get Up And Go Kayaking – Winter Park's tours are perfect whether you're a first-time paddler or a seasoned pro! Being led by knowledgeable and professional tour guides, paddlers are provided a fun-filled, safe, and enjoyable experience. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful paddle or experience the magic of incredible outdoors, Get Up and Go Kayaking – Winter Park provides a memorable journey through a piece of paradise located right here in Central Florida.
Featured Idea: Eagles Edge at Omni
Swing into a par-fect double date night at Eagles Edge!
Indulge in a 2 hour bay rental, a mouthwatering appetizer sampler featuring nachos, wings, hummus, flatbreads, and churros. Quench your thirst with 4 refreshing beverages of your choice from Birdie Juice or Going for Eagle. All for just $200 for up to 4 people!
Eagles Edge is located at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate. Parking will be validated for self-park or valet. You may ask the front desk to call you a shuttle to Eagles Edge upon arrival.
Learn more at eaglesedgeorl.com
3. Visit a Local Farm
Once upon a time, Central Florida was mostly farmland. Clearly, this has changed, but you can still find some thriving farms if you know where to look. Plan a visit to Lake Meadow Naturals in Ocoee to stock up on fresh meats, produce, and local goods in the farm store. Stick around to say hi to the farm animals and enjoy the grounds.
Or, head out to Bountiful Farms for lunch at the outdoor bistro (Wednesday-Saturday) and a weekly Wednesday farmers market.
Another option, Long and Scott Farms is located near Mount Dora, making it a great day trip. Start off the day with a visit to the farm where you can explore much of the grounds and enjoy fresh food from the cafe, plus take home fresh produce and other goods from the market. Then head to Mount Dora for some shopping and lovely scenery. Both the farm and the town are charming and full of fun photo opportunities.
Or, keep the farm theme going and continue 30 minutes to Sunsational Farms in Umatilla for some ice cream, shaved ice, and farm-fresh goods — bring a cooler!
One of my favorite scenic roads is in Oviedo in the Black Hammock area. You'll end up on this scenic road if you head to Black Hammock Bee Farms. This bee farm rescues bees from all over Central Florida, bees that are in areas where they are unwanted. At their small market, you can browse a variety of honey and honey products. This bee farm is located among a range of tree farms, making for a scenic afternoon. They are currently closed on Sunday, please check their website or Google listing for hours.
Want a different experience? Visit a farm for goat yoga! Alaska Farms offers this unique experience every Saturday and Sunday at multiple times. Or, head to a farm to pick your own berries and produce.
Just east of downtown Orlando is a small homestead known as Wild Flower Farm. They also host baby goat yoga and other events during certain times of the year. Check their website for their schedule and info.
Orlando with Kids…
Kids coming along? There are plenty of zoos, aquariums, and animal encounters too, and if you love the outdoors then consider these Orlando farms to visit with kids for produce picking and more!
4. Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens is a lush, botanical garden with multiple pathways and picture-perfect spots. This is one of the ultimate outdoor activities in Orlando. It's also the gateway to Orlando’s Audubon Park Garden District, a lovely little neighborhood teeming with cafes, bakeries, and a brewery.
Visit the gardens during normal hours or check out the events calendar for monthly outdoor movies, concerts, and plant sales.
5. Kelly Park
Just about 30 minutes North of Orlando, Kelly Park is home to one of Central Florida's best springs. It is a favorite among many for tubing along the free-flowing waters. There are picnic pavilions if you'd like to have a picnic with your sweetie as well as concessions if you want someone else to do the cooking. This park fills up quickly in the summer, so go now!
Discover more and Plan a Date to Explore Springs in Florida Near Orlando
6. Visit a Farmers' Market
The weekly farmers market at Lake Eola is an Orlando must-do. You can snag great finds for your home, but also pick up produce and sample food from all of the unique food and beverage vendors too.
Alternatively, head to the massive Winter Park Farmers' Market or charming downtown Winter Garden for the weekly Saturday Winter Garden Farmers Market. Hours are 8am-1pm year round. You'll find dozens of vendors selling fresh blooms, organic produce, sweets, and more. We've also fallen in love with the Windermere Farmers Market on Fridays from 9am-1:30pm.
7. Boggy Creek Adventures + Airboat
Florida has many natural blessings, including incredible wetlands. Boggy Creek Adventures in Kissimmee is a great way to experience an airboat ride plus smaller attractions. Lily’s Butterfly Garden and Lorelei’s Critter Collection make it fun for kids too.
Catch the sunset on a romantic airboat ride across Lake Toho.
8. Go Glamping
Are you looking for a getaway to the great outdoors without roughing it? There are lots of places to go glamping and camping near Orlando. These spots allow you to slow down and escape together, without going too far away, and still have some creature comforts.
9. Sanford Riverwalk + Dinner and Pub Crawl
Spring and Fall are pleasant times of year to stroll along the St. Johns River at the scenic Sanford Riverwalk. You'll enjoy a beautiful riverside stroll past sailboats, pontoon boats, and the historic St. Johns Rivership.
After your walk, venture to 1st Street or Sanford Ave where you can hop around notable spots like The Tennessee Truffle, The Old Jailhouse, The Imperial, The District, Sanford Brewing Company, Wops Hops, Deviant Wolfe Brewing, and more.
READ MORE: 35 Date Ideas in Sanford
10. Kayak Tours
From rivers to lakes to breathtaking sparkling springs, there are so many waterways to explore in Central Florida. Guided tours offered through kayak companies take the pressure off of trying to navigate on your own, making it a more relaxing date for you and your honey. Here are a few of our favorite kayaking adventures and tours.
11. Paddleboard Tours
It's no surprise that stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular way to enjoy the waterways of Central Florida. Near Orlando, there is Paddleboard Orlando, a popular location offering guided tours and rentals throughout Central Florida in Winter Park, Rock Springs Run, and along the Wekiva River. Beginners can partake in a variety of tours on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes, or join an eco-tour that includes time to take a dip in the spring-fed water or enjoy a hike along the Wekiva River.
12. Horseback Riding
Horseback riding can be romantic and adventurous. You don't have to journey too far to find horseback riding experiences in Central Florida. Try Hidden Palms Ranch in Sanford (private trail rides available) and Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort.
13. Revolution Off Road Adventures
In Clermont, you’ll find Revolution Off Road Adventures, which has one of the longest lists of adventurous experiences in all of Central Florida. You can drive a rugged ATV, fish, or try out archery and clay shooting. Alternatively, explore the wilderness on a tour of the 230-acre property in a Myakka 20-seater canopy truck with tree-top views or drive your own Mucky Duck, an 8-wheeled amphibious vehicle.
14. Zip Lining at the Central Florida Zoo
The Central Florida Zoo is located just off the St. Johns River in Sanford. The zoo itself is one of our favorite outdoor activities in Orlando. As an added bonus, located near the entrance is Seminole Aerial Adventures.
You don’t have to pay admission to the zoo to visit this treetop park. The zip line is coupled with a ropes course among the beautiful treetops and there are options for all skill levels. Purchasing timed entry tickets in advance is recommended.
15. Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park
In Kissimmee, just past the attractions area, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park offers a ropes course and zip lining for adults and kids. The courses get more challenging as you progress. We also love The Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Tours in Ocala. It's worth the drive!
Related: 7 Places to Go Ziplining in Orlando and Beyond
16. Beautiful Green Springs
Although swimming is not allowed, Green Springs Park in Enterprise (near Deltona) is worth a visit. The unique green color of the spring is due to the sulfur in the water. Walking trails are well-marked and easy to navigate. And the trails are relatively short making it easy for an outdoor date idea without a big commitment.
17. Disney’s Oak Trail FootGolf Course
Leave it to Walt Disney World to take an existing golf course and change it up ingeniously. The Oak Trail 9-hole golf course now offers an 18-hole FootGolf course. Just like it sounds, FootGolf takes the precision of golf and combines it with soccer. This new activity is growing in popularity worldwide and is perfect for a double date.
18. Splash Around a Water Park
Most people think summer is water park season. Visiting during the summer is perfectly fine, but if you want to avoid crowds and have a better day in paradise, then fall and winter are ideal. My favorite water park in Orlando is Universal's Volcano Bay.
Plan the Best Day at Universal's Volcano Bay with Tips for Couples.
19. Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
One of Central Florida’s longest-running experiences (since 1938), the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is a must-do whether you’re new to Central Florida or have been here quite a while. During the leisurely pontoon boat ride, you’ll cruise along the Winter Park Chain of Lakes via picturesque canals connecting the lakes.
Tours depart every hour from 10am-4pm, and is first come, first serve. The tour is most enjoyable during the cooler months.
20. De Leon Springs and Downtown DeLand
On the Northern edge of Central Florida in West Volusia County lie De Leon Springs State Park and DeLand. Start your day at the state park by making your own pancake breakfast at the Old Sugar Mill, take a boat tour, then wrap up your visit with a refreshing swim in the springs.
Then head down the road to DeLand, home of one of the best main streets in the state. Enjoy lunch, a round of craft cocktails, or shopping in the many unique cafes, bars, and boutiques that line the main and side streets.
21. Swimming at Blue Spring State Park
*Effective April 1, 2024: In-water activities are closed while they stabilize the shoreline at Blue Spring State Park. This closure includes swimming, snorkeling, tubing, diving, and paddling in the spring run and spring head. Boat tours and paddling are only allowed in the St. Johns River.
Not to be confused with Blue Springs State Park in Marianna, Blue Spring State Park is in Northern Central Florida and is famous for the arrival of hundreds of graceful manatees every winter. If you are heading to view the manatees in the winter be sure to get there as early as possible. The park usually reaches capacity during the weekends.
Come spring the manatees move back out to coastal waters, but Blue Spring is still worth a visit for those who love to be in the water. The water is crystal clear and surrounded by natural beauty.
22. West Orange Trail
The West Orange Trail was once railroad tracks and now it is 22 miles of recreational fun. The trail has multiple entrance points, but we love starting at Killarney Station and biking into downtown Winter Garden for a stop at Plant Street Market. Alternate route: start at Chapin Station and bike to the peaceful Buddhist Temple at the Apopka Vineland Road outpost.
23. Cross Seminole Trail
The 23-mile Cross Seminole Trail spans across much of Seminole County. There are five trailheads/access points making it pretty convenient for a run, bike ride, or a scenic walk with your partner.
24. Bok Tower Gardens
Beyond the attractions area at the gateway of Central Florida Lake Wales, a place that is home to one of Florida’s oldest and most beautiful attractions. A visit to Bok Tower Gardens is a delightful experience both for the eyes and ears.
The gardens are dazzling, especially in the spring when the azaleas and camellias are in peak bloom. Pleasant music chimes from the Carillon bells in the Singing Tower throughout the day. Bring a picnic (you can even bring in your own bottle of wine) or dine in the cute on-site cafe.
25. Buena Vista Water Sports at Paradise Cove
Lake Bryan is just five minutes from Walt Disney World. Rent jet skis, pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddleboards, or take wakeboard & waterski lessons with professional instructors at Buena Vista Water Sports. You can bring your doggy, too making this one of the best dog-friendly outdoor activities in Orlando.
When you rent or take lessons you also have access to the quiet beach area and beach volleyball.
Related: Where to Elope or Have a Small Wedding in Orlando
26. Showcase of Citrus
Dive into a day exploring Florida's signature fruit with a visit to a citrus farm. At Showcase of Citrus, you can enjoy the great outdoors and good old-fashioned fun including u-pick citrus, wine tasting, fishing, and the world’s largest 4×4 truck adventure. Experience multiple outdoor activities in Orlando with just one visit.
27. Outdoor Movies
Orlando is a premium spot for outdoor movies. Nearly every city in Central Florida has at least one location for viewing outdoor movies. Watch Hollywood flicks under an evening sky for one of the most budget-friendly outdoor activities in Orlando. Here's our year-round guide to outdoor movies.
Alternatively, hit up the nearest drive-in movie theater to catch screenings of classics and first-run movies.
28. Big Tree Park
Step back in time and walk along the boardwalk winding through the lush woods and hammock of Big Tree Park. Although the park's main attraction, “Senator”–the oldest bald cypress tree in the world–was lost in 2012 to arson, there is still much to see and celebrate here including the Senator's sister tree, “Lady Liberty”, an approximately 2,000-year-old Bald Cypress Tree.
The park is also a trailhead for the 23-mile Cross Seminole Trail, another one of our favorite outdoor activities in Orlando.
29. UCF Arboretum
Nestled alongside UCF’s bustling campus is a peaceful arboretum. You don’t have to be a student to take advantage of this haven for nature lovers. Anyone can visit the nature trails or schedule a tour. If you’re into Geocaching (a great thing to do as a couple) you’ll have a great time exploring the arboretum.
30. Lukas Nursery
Lukas Nursery is more than just a place to pick up beautiful flowers for your garden, it is a lovely place for a scenic stroll and offers a butterfly encounter. Admission to the Butterfly Encounter is $8.95/person. This butterfly encounter is one of our favorite outdoor activities in Orlando.
For another local nursery also in Seminole County, head to South Seminole Farms and Nursery. Monday – Saturday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. With 11 acres of lush landscaping and plants to explore it is a lovely outing. Plus, local organic produce is available in their barn.
Feature image credit: The Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Tours