The Best Attractions Near Disney World for Families with Toddlers
After days of Disney magic, sometimes both parents and little ones need a change of pace (or you might be looking to spread out your Disney days with other adventures). Fortunately, Central Florida offers numerous toddler-friendly attractions within an hour’s drive of Walt Disney World. These destinations provide unique experiences that complement your Disney vacation without the same crowds or price tags.
As a mom who has ventured beyond Disney’s borders with my own curious toddler in tow, I’ve discovered that these nearby attractions often become unexpected highlights of our Orlando trips. They offer more relaxed environments where little ones can explore at their own pace, and many are specifically designed with the youngest visitors in mind.
This guide covers the best non-Disney attractions near Orlando for families with toddlers, including essential information about distance, drive times, and transportation options. Let’s explore what awaits beyond the Disney bubble!
LEGOLAND Florida: A Park Built for Little Builders
If your toddler loves building with LEGO bricks (or knocking them down), LEGOLAND Florida offers an entire theme park scaled perfectly for the youngest visitors.
Location: Winter Haven, FL
Distance from Disney: 45 minutes (approximately 35 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car recommended (no direct public transportation)
Link: https://www.legoland.com/florida
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
LEGOLAND Florida stands out among theme parks for its focus on children ages 2-12, with a special emphasis on the preschool crowd. Unlike many parks that simply have a “kiddie section,” the entire LEGOLAND experience is designed with young children in mind.
The DUPLO Village area specifically caters to toddlers with:
- Oversized DUPLO bricks for building
- Train rides with no height requirement
- Indoor, air-conditioned play spaces
- Splash areas perfect for hot days
- Character meet-and-greets with less intimidating LEGO characters
Beyond DUPLO Village, toddlers can enjoy:
- Miniland USA with incredible LEGO city recreations
- Safari Trek with LEGO animals (no height requirement)
- Royal Joust gentle horse ride (must be 36″ tall)
- LEGO-themed playgrounds throughout the park
- Shows and entertainment designed for short attention spans
During our visit, my daughter was especially captivated by the Miniland displays. The moving trains, boats, and cars held her attention for nearly an hour as she pointed out familiar objects and vehicles recreated in LEGO form.
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: Weekdays during school seasons are significantly less crowded
- Allow: A full day (though half-day visits are possible)
- Money-saving tip: LEGOLAND often offers “Toddler Tuesdays” with special pricing
- When to skip: Rainy days (many attractions close during inclement weather)
Toddler Travel Tip
LEGOLAND Florida offers a “Parent Swap” program similar to Disney’s Rider Switch, allowing parents to take turns on attractions with height requirements while the other stays with your toddler.
Crayola Experience: Colorful Creative Play
For artistic toddlers who love to color, create, and get hands-on with art, the Crayola Experience in Orlando offers an immersive, creative environment.
Location: Florida Mall, Orlando
Distance from Disney: 20-25 minutes (approximately 15 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car, Uber/Lyft (approximately $25-30 each way)
Link: https://www.crayolaexperience.com/orlando
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
The Crayola Experience offers 26 hands-on attractions spread across 70,000 square feet of colorful, creative space. Most activities are perfectly suited for toddlers with parental assistance, and the indoor, air-conditioned environment makes it an excellent rainy day or afternoon break option.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- Modeling clay stations where little hands can squish and create
- Melted wax art activities (with parent help)
- Toddler-friendly play areas with climbing structures
- Color Magic stations where children’s coloring comes to life digitally
- Drip Art where kids create spin art with melted crayons
- Name your own crayon and take it home as a souvenir
What impressed me most during our visit was how many activities genuinely engaged my 2-year-old. Unlike some attractions where toddlers are too young for most experiences, nearly every station offered something she could do and enjoy, either independently or with minimal help.
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: 2-3 hours is typically enough time
- Allow: Half-day, including travel time
- Money-saving tip: Look for online discounts; annual passes are reasonably priced if you’ll visit more than once
- Combination opportunity: The Florida Mall has a nice food court and play area, making this an easy pairing
Toddler Travel Tip
Bring a change of clothes! While smocks are provided for messy activities, toddlers have a knack for finding ways to get colorful beyond the protective gear.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Underwater Wonder
Toddlers are often fascinated by aquatic life, and the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers a manageable, toddler-friendly underwater experience.
Location: ICON Park, International Drive, Orlando
Distance from Disney: 20 minutes (approximately 12 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car, Uber/Lyft (approximately $20-25 each way)
Link: https://www.visitsealife.com/orlando
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
The SEA LIFE Aquarium is significantly smaller than some other aquariums, making it the perfect size for toddlers’ shorter attention spans. The layout guides visitors through a series of themed zones with tanks at various heights—including floor-level viewing bubbles perfect for toddler height.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- 360-degree ocean tunnel where sea creatures swim all around you
- Interactive touch pools with gentle sea life
- Floor-to-ceiling tanks with colorful tropical fish
- Seahorse habitats with these fascinating, toddler-favorite creatures
- Regular feeding demonstrations that captivate young audiences
My daughter was completely mesmerized by the jellyfish displays where changing colored lights made the translucent creatures appear to glow in different hues. It’s been over a year, and she still talks about the “rainbow jellies.”
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: Weekday mornings tend to be quietest
- Allow: 1-2 hours for the aquarium itself
- Combination opportunity: Located at ICON Park alongside The Wheel (observation wheel), Madame Tussauds, and restaurants
- Money-saving tip: Combination tickets with other ICON Park attractions offer significant savings
Toddler Travel Tip
The gift shop is located at the exit (of course). If you’re trying to avoid the “I want” meltdown, consider giving your toddler a small budget for a souvenir before entering or redirecting to the nearby playground at ICON Park after your visit.
Peppa Pig Theme Park: Preschooler Paradise
Opened in 2022, the Peppa Pig Theme Park is the newest addition to Central Florida’s toddler-friendly attractions and the first standalone Peppa Pig theme park in the world.
Location: Winter Haven, FL (adjacent to LEGOLAND Florida)
Distance from Disney: 45 minutes (approximately 35 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car recommended
Link: https://www.peppapigthemepark.com/florida/
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
If your toddler is a Peppa Pig fan, this compact theme park will feel like stepping into the show. The entire park is designed specifically for preschoolers with gentle rides, playgrounds, and interactive experiences based on familiar locations from the series.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster (a “my first roller coaster” experience with a 36″ height requirement)
- Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride (no height requirement with adult)
- Mr. Bull’s High Striker (gentle drop ride)
- Muddy Puddles Splash Pad (perfect for hot days)
- George’s Fort playground
- Character meets with Peppa and friends
The park’s small footprint means minimal walking for little legs, and everything is scaled appropriately for toddlers. Shade structures, ample seating, and changing facilities make it particularly parent-friendly too.
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: 3-5 hours is typically enough to experience everything
- Allow: Half-day, including travel time
- Combination opportunity: Combo tickets with LEGOLAND are available (located next door)
- Money-saving tip: Booking online in advance typically saves about 30%
Toddler Travel Tip
The splash pad is a major attraction, especially during warmer months. Pack swimming gear, water shoes, and a change of clothes to fully enjoy this area.
Orlando Science Center: Learning Through Play
For inquisitive toddlers who love to explore and discover, the Orlando Science Center offers multiple floors of interactive exhibits with dedicated spaces for the youngest scientists.
Location: Near downtown Orlando
Distance from Disney: 30 minutes (approximately 18 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car, Uber/Lyft (approximately $25-35 each way)
Link: https://www.osc.org
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
Unlike some science centers that primarily target older children, the Orlando Science Center features KidsTown—an 11,000-square-foot space designed specifically for children under 7. This mini-city offers water play, building opportunities, and exploration zones perfectly suited to toddler interests and abilities.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- Orange Grove where toddlers “pick” and sort citrus fruits
- Bubbles exhibit with chances to create giant bubbles
- Toddler neighborhood with vehicles and buildings scaled for the youngest visitors
- Water play areas with dams, pumps, and channels
- Climb Time play structure designed for multiple developmental stages
Beyond KidsTown, toddlers also enjoy:
- Live animal encounters with gentle creatures
- Dinosaur exhibits with impressive fossils
- Simple engineering activities with blocks and magnets
- Interactive health exhibits with body-sized components
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: Weekday mornings avoid school groups
- Allow: 3-4 hours
- Money-saving tip: Visit on Sunday afternoons when admission is reduced
- When to avoid: School field trip season (typically spring) brings large groups
Toddler Travel Tip
Bring a complete change of clothes—the water play areas in KidsTown are incredibly engaging but almost guarantee soggy toddlers!
Gatorland: Florida’s Wildlife Adventure
For animal-loving toddlers, Gatorland offers an authentically Floridian wildlife experience with creatures that will fascinate young visitors.
Location: South Orlando
Distance from Disney: 25-30 minutes (approximately 17 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car, Uber/Lyft (approximately $25-35 each way)
Link: https://www.gatorland.com
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
While seeing alligators might sound intimidating for little ones, Gatorland presents these prehistoric creatures in ways that intrigue rather than frighten young children. The park balances close observation opportunities with appropriate safety measures.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- Alligator Breeding Marsh boardwalk for safe viewing of numerous gators
- Baby alligator petting pool (with staff supervision)
- Subtropical bird aviary with free-flying birds
- Train ride around the park (no height requirement)
- Petting zoo with gentle farm animals
- Splash pad for cooling off on hot days
Feeding demonstrations are particularly captivating for toddlers, with gators lunging out of the water for food (from a safe distance behind barriers). The combination of excitement and safety makes for memorable moments.
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: Morning hours when animals are more active
- Allow: 3-4 hours
- Money-saving tip: Discounted tickets often available online
- Weather consideration: Mostly outdoor experience, best on moderate weather days
Toddler Travel Tip
The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and other adventure activities are obviously not toddler-appropriate, but they’re perfect if you’re utilizing parent swap—one parent can have an adventure while the other explores with your toddler.
Fun Spot America: Toddler-Friendly Amusement Parks
For families seeking amusement park thrills scaled for the youngest riders, both Orlando and Kissimmee have Fun Spot America locations offering plenty of toddler-appropriate rides.
Locations:
- Orlando (International Drive)
- Kissimmee (near Old Town)
Distance from Disney:
- Orlando location: 20 minutes (approximately 12 miles from Disney Springs)
- Kissimmee location: 15 minutes (approximately 7 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car, Uber/Lyft (approximately $15-25 each way depending on location)
Link: https://fun-spot.com
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
Unlike major theme parks where many attractions have height restrictions, Fun Spot America features numerous rides specifically designed for toddlers and preschoolers. The smaller scale means less walking, shorter lines, and a more manageable experience overall.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- Kiddie swings and carousels
- Family go-kart tracks where parents drive with toddlers as passengers
- Gentle roller coasters with 36″ height requirements
- Train rides around the park
- Arcade games and redemption centers
- Ferris wheel for family viewing
The parks operate on a pay-per-ride or wristband system, giving families flexibility to experience just a few attractions or make a full day of it.
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: Weekday evenings are typically less crowded
- Allow: 2-3 hours
- Money-saving tip: Check Groupon and similar sites for discounted wristbands
- Location choice: Kissimmee location is smaller but closer to Disney; Orlando location offers more rides
Toddler Travel Tip
If your toddler naps in the car, these parks make perfect evening activities after an afternoon nap during the drive.
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
For a more intimate zoo experience perfectly sized for toddlers, the Central Florida Zoo offers close animal encounters and interactive experiences.
Location: Sanford, FL
Distance from Disney: 50 minutes (approximately 35 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car (ride shares possible but expensive at $45-60 each way)
Link: https://www.centralfloridazoo.org
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
Unlike larger zoos that can overwhelm young children with too much walking and too many exhibits, the Central Florida Zoo is compact enough for toddler stamina while still offering impressive animal diversity. The layout groups similar animals together, making concepts easier for young minds to grasp.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- Barnyard Buddies petting zoo area
- Splash ground water play area (under construction at the time of writing, be sure to confirm before visiting)
- ZOOm Air aerial adventure (including a special kids’ course for ages 3+)
- Train ride around the grounds
- Carousel with various animal figures
- Rhinoceros encounter feeding experience
The zoo excels at offering close viewing opportunities, with many habitats designed so toddlers can see animals without being lifted. Shaded pathways and multiple play areas make it easy to balance wildlife viewing with active play breaks.
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: Weekday mornings for active animals and smaller crowds
- Allow: 3-4 hours
- Money-saving tip: Reciprocal zoo memberships from your home zoo may provide discounts
- Weather note: Extensive shade makes this a more comfortable option even on warmer days
Toddler Travel Tip
The splash ground is a highlight for toddlers, especially during Florida’s warmer months. Pack water clothes, shoes, and a change of outfit to fully enjoy this feature.
WonderWorks: Indoor Amusement for Rainy Days
When Florida’s afternoon thunderstorms threaten outdoor plans, WonderWorks offers an indoor “amusement park for the mind” with plenty to engage toddlers.
Location: International Drive, Orlando
Distance from Disney: 20 minutes (approximately 10 miles from Disney Springs)
Transportation: Rental car, Uber/Lyft (approximately $20-25 each way)
Link: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/orlando/
Why It’s Perfect for Toddlers
Housed in an upside-down building that immediately captures toddlers’ attention, WonderWorks combines educational exhibits with physical play opportunities. While some activities target older children, each zone contains elements that engage the youngest visitors.
Toddler-friendly highlights include:
- Physical Challenge Zone with bubble play
- Light and Sound Zone with giant musical floor piano
- Space Discovery room with astronaut suits
- Wonder Art Gallery with optical illusions
- Imagination Lab with giant building blocks
- Bubble Lab where kids can stand inside giant bubbles
The exhibits blend learning with sensory experiences, perfect for toddler development. Many stations are designed with multiple levels of engagement, allowing children of different ages to interact appropriately.
Planning Your Visit
- Best timing: Late afternoons tend to be less crowded
- Allow: 2-3 hours
- Money-saving tip: Discounted tickets often available through hotel concierge services
- Combination opportunity: Located on International Drive near many restaurants and other attractions
Toddler Travel Tip
Some areas (like the ropes course) are designed for older children. Request a parent swap option if you have older children or adults who want to experience these attractions while others stay with your toddler.
How to Get Around Orlando
Most off-property attractions require some form of transportation from your Disney accommodations. Here are your options:
Rental Car
Pros:
- Most flexible option
- Can accommodate car seats/boosters you bring from home
- Allows for spontaneous stops and schedule changes
- More economical for multiple excursions
- Convenient for carrying strollers and diaper bags
Cons:
- Navigation in unfamiliar area
- Parking fees at some attractions
- Must install/uninstall car seats
Recommendation: A rental car is the best option if you’re planning multiple off-property excursions, especially to destinations like LEGOLAND and Peppa Pig Theme Park that are further from Disney.
Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft)
Pros:
- No need to drive in unfamiliar territory
- Can request vehicle with car seats (limited availability)
- No parking hassles
- Can relax/interact with your toddler during the drive
Cons:
- More expensive for longer distances
- Wait times during peak periods
- Limited car seat availability (bring your own for safety)
- Need to install/uninstall car seats each ride
Recommendation: Rideshares work well for single trips to closer attractions like SEA LIFE Aquarium or Crayola Experience, especially if traveling with another adult who can help with car seat installation.
Private Transportation Services
Pros:
- Door-to-door service
- Professional drivers familiar with the area
- Some offer car seats/boosters
- Scheduled in advance for peace of mind
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Require advance booking
- Less flexibility for schedule changes
Recommendation: Consider for special single-day excursions to further destinations when you prefer not to drive but want the convenience of dedicated transportation.
Shuttle Services
Some attractions (notably LEGOLAND) offer shuttle services from select Orlando locations. These typically need to be booked in advance and run on fixed schedules.
RELATED POST: Car Seats at Disney World? Everything You Need to Know About Safe Transportation for Toddlers & Babies
Planning Your Off-Property Day: Tips for Success
Taking toddlers off Disney property requires slightly different planning. Here are some tips to ensure successful excursions:
Timing Considerations
- Morning excursions: Many toddlers are at their best in the morning. Consider visiting off-property attractions early, then returning to your resort for afternoon naps.
- Distance factors: Add 15-20 minutes to Google Maps drive time estimates to account for Orlando traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Return timing: Plan to return before your toddler’s typical meltdown hour, allowing buffer time for traffic delays.
Practical Packing
- Car entertainment: Pack special car-only toys for longer drives
- Snack strategy: Bring familiar snacks that aren’t too messy for car rides
- Comfort items: Don’t forget loveys or comfort items that might be needed off-property
- Documentation: Some attractions offer Disney resort guest discounts—bring your resort ID
Breaking Up Your Disney Stay
Many families find that alternating Disney parks with off-property attractions creates a more balanced vacation:
- Recovery days: Schedule lower-key attractions after intense park days
- Weather planning: Save indoor options like WonderWorks or Crayola Experience for predicted rainy days (note, your weather app may show rain everyday during the warmer months, these are typically afternoon storms that will last an hour or less)
- Arrival/departure days: Many of these attractions make perfect half-day activities for arrival or departure days
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Disney Bubble
While Walt Disney World offers a magical experience for families with toddlers, venturing beyond Disney property can add unexpected highlights to your Orlando vacation. These toddler-friendly attractions provide different paces, themes, and experiences that complement your Disney days.
For many families, the ideal Orlando vacation combines the immersive fantasy of Disney with the more focused experiences these specialized attractions offer. Toddlers benefit from the variety of stimulation, and parents often appreciate the generally lower crowds and costs these alternatives provide.
Whether you’re looking for a rainy day backup plan, a mid-vacation change of pace, or simply want to experience more of what Central Florida offers, these attractions provide wonderful options for your family’s youngest travelers.
What non-Disney attractions has your family enjoyed in the Orlando area? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
