7 Incredible Things to do in Orlando on Memorial Day

Walt Disney World is probably the number one thing people who travel to Orlando want to see on Memorial Day. The spacious resort has four theme parks, two water parks, a dining and shopping district, and over 20 on-site, Disney-owned hotels. Opening May 27, 2022, at EPCOT is the highly anticipated Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind attraction. The rollercoaster features Walt Disney World's first reverse launch and is one of the largest indoor coasters in the entire world!

Universal Orlando Resort is the home of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can literally step into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure have a Wizarding World area that is connected by a short train ride on the Hogwarts Express. Outside of the Harry Potter-themed area, you’ll find the new Jurassic World Velocicoaster, which takes you on an intense ride through the raptor paddock and over the lagoon before coming back to the safety of the unload zone. On Memorial Day, be sure to take a dip into Volcano Bay, where you can ride around a lazy river or enjoy a Waturi Fusion swirled ice cream cone that features different colors and flavors.

If you're looking to get to the resort outside of Orlando, Pinnacle Aviation suggests traveling early in the week to prevent major delays on the weekend.

During Memorial Day, this exciting theme park is filled with water creature-themed coasters, animal exhibits and encounters, and an adorable Sesame Street-themed area for kids. Ice Breaker was the newest attraction to open at the park in February 2022. The thrilling new ride features four launches, including a reverse launch into a beyond vertical drop that is sure to take your breath away. Throughout the day, you can also see shows and live entertainment featuring animals and learn about the natural behaviors of sea life.

ICON Park is home to more than 40 restaurants, shops, bars, and entertainment offerings. Around the sprawling complex, you can enjoy things like the Orlando Starflyer, a high-flying swing that stands at 450-feet tall. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed on Memorial day weekend, consider a tour around Madame Tussauds Orlando, where you can see lifelike models of Walt Disney, Taylor Swift, and Wonder Woman. When it’s time to eat, consider Gordon Ramsay Fish and Chips, unsurprisingly owned by notorious restauranteur Gordon Ramsay.

Take a relaxing stroll around Lake Eola and Lake Eola Park, located in the heart of downtown Orlando during Memorial Day. The walk around the lake is just under one mile, and along the way, you'll take in picturesque views of the downtown skyline. Want to be on the water? Rent swan paddle boats and get out there with the live swans. The Walt Disney Amphitheater is also located inside the park, a gorgeous arena that typically hosts live concerts, movies, and performances.

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is the spot to be in Orlando for live music, broadway shows like Hamilton, and tons of family-friendly entertainment. Kids will love movie nights with family-friendly flicks like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off on Memorial Day. Movie and music buffs will want to look for movies in conjunction with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, who will play the score live while you watch the film. The Dr. Phillips Center is also the home of the Orlando Ballet, brilliantly performing in shows like The Jungle Book and The Nutcracker.

For those looking for a bit of outdoor adventure without getting into the Florida swamps on Memorial Day, check out the Harry P. Leu Gardens. The stunning, walkable garden boasts 50 acres of beautiful flora and fauna just a few minutes drive from downtown Orlando. Donated to the city in 1961, locals and visitors have been making the most of this stunning space ever since. The garden also hosts movie nights for families and educational seminars on various topics throughout the year.