Explore the Thrills and Wonders of Orlando's International Drive

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As an Orlando mom, International Drive (I-Drive) has become a go-to spot for big fun without the commitment of a full theme park day. Stretching 11 miles through the heart of Orlando's tourism district, I-Drive is packed with attractions, restaurants, shopping, and kid-friendly hotels that appeal to both visitors and locals. Families can ride the Orlando Eye, explore the SEA LIFE Aquarium, visit Madame Tussauds, and experience the Museum of Illusions, all within the ICON Park complex. Nearby, Pointe Orlando offers indoor entertainment like Monkey Joe's, Main Event, and WonderWorks. For indoor fun, Dezerland Park and Fun Spot Orlando provide options like go-karts, bowling, and arcades. With a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, flexible transportation, and a variety of dining and lodging options, I-Drive delivers a well-rounded Orlando experience for families.

Why it matters

International Drive offers families a convenient and flexible way to experience Orlando's entertainment district without the commitment of a full theme park day. With a diverse array of attractions, restaurants, and hotels, I-Drive caters to both visitors and locals, providing a versatile option for vacation arrival days, rest days, or spontaneous outings. The area's mix of indoor and outdoor activities also makes it easy to adjust plans around Florida's unpredictable weather.

The details

International Drive is packed with a wide range of attractions and entertainment options for families. ICON Park serves as a central hub, featuring the 400-foot Orlando Eye observation wheel, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds wax museum, and the interactive Museum of Illusions. Nearby, Pointe Orlando offers indoor activities like Monkey Joe's indoor playground, Main Event's bowling and arcade, and the hands-on science exhibits of WonderWorks. For indoor fun, Dezerland Park has go-karts, bowling, and an Orlando Auto Museum, while Fun Spot Orlando provides classic carnival rides and a Gator Spot exhibit. Beyond the major hubs, I-Drive also features quirky attractions like Ripley's Believe It or Not!, the World's Largest McDonald's, and numerous themed mini golf courses.

• International Drive stretches approximately 11 miles through the heart of Orlando's tourism district.
• ICON Park opened its iconic Orlando Eye observation wheel in 2015.
• Sloth World, the world's first 'Slotharium,' is scheduled to open in February 2026.
• Society Park Orlando, a new 2.4-acre sports and entertainment complex, is set to open in April 2026.

What’s next

Sloth World, the world's first 'Slotharium,' is scheduled to open in February 2026, offering guided experiences with sloths in a rainforest-style habitat. Society Park Orlando, a new 2.4-acre sports and entertainment complex, is set to open in April 2026, featuring padel and pickleball courts, kids' courts, dining, and more.