In true Florida fashion, we’re getting an early start on summer fun. That means filling up those long days of sunshine with endless activities for kids, teens, families, and even couples. With beaches and theme parks just 30 minutes away, staying and playing in Orlando North keeps you close to big-ticket adventures, minus the hustle and bustle.

If you’re looking for family-friendly, summer fun activities, here’s where to find them in Seminole County.

VISIT THE CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS

No summer bucket list is complete without a day at the zoo. Located in the heart of Sanford, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens will transport you and your herd to faraway lands with glimpses of exotic species.

Feed a giraffe, stop by the petting zoo, or brave the herpetarium and go face-to-face with venomous snakes—there’s no shortage of wild encounters to be had! Make sure to leave enough room in your itinerary to cool off in the Tropical Splash Ground or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on a zipline and explore the aerial obstacle course.

EXPLORE THE SPRINGS AT WEKIVA ISLAND

It’s no secret that the Florida heat can be sweltering. Luckily, Orlando North is home to natural springs to keep you cool even on the warmest of days. Want to know our favorite way to spend a day on the water? Wekiva Island! This is an all-in-one hub for your springs adventure!

Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and set out on the water. You can explore the river in either direction, depending on if you’d like to ride down current on your way out or back in. Oh, and watch out for wildlife—you might just get a peek of otters playing in the springs or native birds flying overhead.

MOVIES AT PICTURE SHOW AT ALTAMONTE SPRINGS OR AMC

Rainy days don’t have to put a damper on your summer plans. Spending time indoors can be just as much of a treat, especially if you head over to catch a movie at Picture Show in Altamonte Springs or AMC Theaters at the Altamonte Mall. These family-friendly theaters screen all the latest releases as well as special showings of classics. Grab some popcorn and cozy up for a summer movie night!

TAKE AN AIRBOAT TOUR AT BLACK HAMMOCK

For those looking for a high-speed, adrenaline-rushing way to experience Florida’s picturesque lakes, look no further than Black Hammock’s airboat tours. On this 30-minute ride on Lake Jesup, you’ll get up close with wild birds and, of course, gators—over 10,000 were last recorded at this location! But don’t worry, this is a perfectly safe, family-friendly activity and a memorable day trip to plan for this summer.

PADDLEBOARD ORLANDO

Hands-down, one of our favorite summer activities has to be stand up paddleboarding. Not only will you get in a bit of a workout, it’s also a unique way to explore Orlando North’s natural springs. Paddleboard Orlando lets you rent boards (or kayaks or canoes) to launch along the Wekiva River, with excursions and lessons available for all experience levels. Pack some sunglasses and sunscreen, and don’t forget a waterproof phone case to capture all the action.

LAKE MARY FARMERS MARKET

Need a Saturday morning pick-me-up? Head over the Lake Mary Farmers Market for local produce, handmade goodies, and plenty of snacks. Grab a breakfast sandwich or acai bowl to start off your day right, then pick out fresh fruit and veggies to throw on the grill for later. Take a lap around downtown Lake Mary’s tree-lined streets and finish off with a family game of cornhole accompanied by live music.

ARCADE MONSTERS

Game night in the living room has its perks, but if you’re looking to treat the kids (or yourself!) to some friendly competition, head over to Arcade Monsters. The largest arcade in all of Florida, Arcade Monsters has everything from vintage games to virtual reality. The best part? Twenty bucks per person gets you unlimited play! With Cuban street food, craft beers, and wine available, we’re betting you won’t want to leave.

WAYNE DENSCH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Not every summer day calls for non-stop action. Sometimes, you want to sit back and enjoy a show, whether it’s a classic movie, live music, or a full theater production. The Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center has you covered on all bases. With a number of concerts and performances always on the calendar, you can score tickets to one that strikes your fancy for a romantic date night or evening with the family.

EXPLORE MILES OF BIKE TRAILS

Orlando North’s Seminole Wekiva Trail flows from Lake Mary to Altamonte Springs, with plenty of sights to see on your ride. Check out the “Paint the Trail” art installation by local artist Jeff Sonksen in Longwood. Here you will find detailed paintings of everything from pop culture to landscapes along the trail. You’ll also go through local parks where you can make a pitstop for a picnic or a friendly game of frisbee. No bike? No problem. Rent your ride at David’s World Cycle in Lake Mary and get to exploring.

Want even more fun ideas for your summer road trip or time in Orlando North? You got it. When we say there’s always more to do, see, experience, and explore in Seminole County, we mean it. So, what will you and your summer crew get up to this season? Be sure to tag us using #DoOrlandoNorth to share your adventures.