Orlando’s Museums, Theaters, and Cultural Destinations
Orlando might be more famous for its theme parks and out-of-this-world attractions, but the city also features a wide range of fantastic cultural destinations to experience and explore. Here are some of our favorites:
- Orange County Regional History Center
65 E Central Blvd., Orlando
Located in the heart of Orlando right along Central Boulevard near Lake Eola, the Orange County Regional History Center invites everyone to experience the history and culture of Orlando and the Florida region through a wide variety of wonderful permanent and traveling exhibits, events, and programs.
There are five floors to explore – from displays about Florida’s first indigenous inhabitants and the arrival of the pioneers in the 19th century, to fascinating exhibits documenting how the area transformed from a mostly agricultural community to the tourist-centric hub we know today.
Bring your friends and family. Groups of 10 and more will receive a free guided tour. The center also proudly features limited-run exhibits presented in partnership with the Smithsonian Museum. - Orlando Science Center
777 E Princeton St, Orlando
The Orlando Science Center is one of the best family-friendly attractions downtown. Featuring a wide range of interactive exhibits and displays, the center gives children, as well as people of all ages, a great opportunity to appreciate and understand the wonders of science and technology.
Learn about the fundamental forces of gravity, electricity, and Newton’s Laws while designing and building creations to complete challenges at the Kinetic Zone . Go hands on and uncover fossils while learning about the lives of dinosaurs at the DinoDigs display. Film showings, traveling exhibits, and events hosting services are also offered.
The Crosby Observatory located on top of the science center features a largest refractor telescope available to the public. Open for daytime and nighttime viewing, it gives visitors an awesome view of the planets, the moons of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, as well as galaxies and nebulas. - Orlando Museum of Art
2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando
Situated near the Orlando Shakespeare Theater and the Orlando Science Center in Loch Haven Park, the Orlando Museum of Art is a treat for visitors who love culture and the beauty of the visual arts.
Through the years, the museum has collected an impressive array of notable contemporary works of art from local, regional, and international artists. These include paintings, sculptures, installations, and more.
The museum presents 10-12 exhibits annually, with a a variety of featured exhibits and programs every month. Check out their website to plan your visit. - Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
445 S Magnolia Ave., Orlando
Conveniently located right in the middle of Downtown, the Dr. Philips Center is one of the best places in Orlando to catch incredible Broadway-type plays, Tony award-winning musicals, ballets, orchestral performances, operas, concerts, and more.
With its great contemporary design, this venue offers incredible acoustics and great seats throughout. The Walt Disney Theater, a 2,700-seat amplified hall, offers numerous shows all year round.
Check out the Center’s website for an updated list of shows. The Center also has an iPhone app that alerts users to upcoming shows. Group tickets are also available for purchase.