10 things to do in Orlando in spring

Spring offers some of the best weather for sightseeing in Orlando and also one of the least crowded times of the year, so you can discover the main attractions in a more relaxed and peaceful way.

Matías Rodríguez

Matías Rodríguez

11 min read

10 things to do in Orlando in spring

Estatua de micky mouse |© kaleb tapp

If you are planning your trip to Orlando and you prefer to escape the sweltering heat, cold temperatures and large crowds, then you should consider visiting the city in spring, which is one of the ideal seasons to experience one of America's entertainment capitals.

Some of the best things to do in Orlando in spring include visiting Universal Studios in the cooler weather, enjoying the Epcot Garden Festival, taking a safari tour and a hovercraft tour in the warmer weather, touring Everglades National Park and experiencing the NBA regular season finale by attending a Magic game.

1. Visit Universal Studios in low tourist crowds

Universal Orlando|©Shay Tressa DeSimone
Universal Orlando|©Shay Tressa DeSimone

If you're planning to visit Universal Studios Orlando and want to avoid the crowds, March and April are an excellent option. During this period, crowds tend to be lower compared to the summer months and school holidays.

One of the advantages of visiting the park when crowds are low is that you can enjoy a more relaxed, uncrowded experience. Wait times at the attractions are generally shorter, allowing you to make the most of your day and enjoy all the exciting attractions Universal Studios has to offer.

In addition to the attractions, at Universal Studios Orlando you will also have the opportunity to explore the themed areas at your leisure. You can stroll through Diagon Alley at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or step into the world of superheroes at Marvel Super Hero Island without having to deal with long lines or overwhelming crowds.

Another benefit of visiting Universal Studios in March and April is that you can enjoy the warm and pleasant spring weather in Florida. Temperatures are generally milder and there is less chance of heavy rain, allowing you to enjoy your visit to the park to the fullest.

Book tickets for Universal Studios

2. Catch a Magic game during the NBA playoffs

Magic vs Rockets|©Javier Godinez
Magic vs Rockets|©Javier Godinez

For a typical Orlando experience, you can't miss an NBA game with the Magic, the local franchise that is one of the league's cheerleaders. If you're also planning to visit Orlando in March or during the spring months, you'll be able to catch the decisive games of the regular season, which usually ends in April.

The Magic play their home games at the Amway Center, a multi-purpose arena that dresses up each game to welcome the city's basketball team, which has one of the loudest crowds in the league. During the games, you'll also be able to attend halftime shows and enjoy the food at the venue.

Keep in mind that getting NBA tickets is not an easy task and even less so during the playoffs, so if you plan to attend a Magic game I advise you to rush to get seats before your visit.

Remember that if you plan to visit Orlando in June during the late spring and the team qualifies for the playoffs, you will also be able to attend the playoffs, which is the most exciting time in the NBA.

Book tickets to see the Magic in the NBA

3. Take a safari tour of Orlando

Animal Kingdom|©Wally Gobetz
Animal Kingdom|©Wally Gobetz

If you're planning to visit Orlando in April or during the spring months and are looking for an exciting adventure, a safari tour is a great alternative. One of the best options in the area is Wild Florida, a destination that will immerse you in the beauty and diversity of Florida's wildlife.

During a safari tour in Wild Florida, you'll have the opportunity to explore the wetlands and swamps of the region. Aboard a boat or off-road vehicle, you'll be able to enter the natural habitat of alligators, egrets and bald eagles. It's a unique experience to see native flora and fauna up close in their natural environment on one of Orlando's best safari tours.

Spring is an ideal time to do this tour as the weather is calm and pleasant in Orlando. Temperatures are warm but not too hot, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without worry.

A spring safari tour also gives you the opportunity to learn about conservation and care for local ecosystems. Wild Florida 's expert guides will provide you with valuable information about the importance of protecting and preserving wildlife and its habitat.

Enjoy a safari tour in Orlando

4. Enjoy Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival|©Craig Miles
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival|©Craig Miles

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is one of the most anticipated events at Walt Disney World, offering a magical experience. During this festival, which usually opens during the first week of March, Epcot is transformed into a spectacle of colour and floral scents, with themed gardens and elaborate topiaries depicting Disney characters.

One of the highlights of the festival is the magnificent floral gardens and displays. You can wander through the various themed pavilions and admire the meticulously landscaped gardens, filled with lush flowers and exotic plants. Each garden tells a story and transports you to a world of fantasy and enchantment.

In addition, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival also offers a wide variety of interactive and educational activities. You can participate in gardening demonstrations, learn landscaping techniques and get practical tips for growing your own plants at home. You can also take a guided tour of the site.

During the festival you can enjoy a selection of themed food and drinks, including snacks and nature-inspired dishes. Finally, you can also sample wines and craft beers from different regions of the world, which will enhance your experience at one of Orlando's best theme parks.

5. Tour Everglades National Park

Everglades Orlando|©Joseluz R, Delgado
Everglades Orlando|©Joseluz R, Delgado

A tour of Everglades National Park will take you into an amazing and unique natural world. Located in South Florida, this vast ecosystem of swamps and mangroves is home to a great diversity of wildlife and offers visitors an unforgettable experience, especially during the spring when the vegetation is at its best.

In the Everglades you can visit a maze of trails and canals that stretch the length of the park. Whether by kayak or boat, exploring the intricate waterways will immerse you in a serene and tranquil landscape. The dense vegetation and the sounds of wildlife will surround you, giving you a sense of connection with nature.

In Everglades National Park you can spot exotic birds such as herons, ospreys and pink flamingos. You'll also have the opportunity to observe alligators and turtles in their natural habitat.

If you opt for the night tour, you'll hear the sounds of frogs and crickets as you discover the glowing eyes of animals peering out of the darkness in a magical moment that will connect you with nature at its most primal.

Book an airboat ride in the Everglades National Park

6. Experience the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival

Orlando Fringe Local Artist Teaser Show|©Orlando Fringe
Orlando Fringe Local Artist Teaser Show|©Orlando Fringe

The Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival is an event not to be missed if you're a theatre lover planning to visit Orlando in May. During this festival , artists from all over the world come together to present a wide variety of independent and experimental theatre shows.

One of the most exciting aspects of the Fringe Festival is the diversity of artistic offerings. You can find everything from traditional plays to dance, music, comedy and even improvisation performances.

The atmosphere of the festival is lively and festive. The venues are spread throughout the city, from conventional theatres to alternative spaces and improvised performance halls. In addition, the event offers shows for the little ones, making it one of the best things to do in Orlando with children.

What makes the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival special is its inclusive spirit and the interaction between artists and audiences. In addition, the festival also organises workshops and events to encourage learning and active participation.

7. Take a hovercraft tour in the best of weather

hydrofoil on the water|©Airboat Afrika
hydrofoil on the water|©Airboat Afrika

For a fun experience in Orlando this spring, you can take a hovercraft tour in the best weather. On this activity you can enjoy the beauty of the Florida swamps in all their splendour. With pleasant temperatures and clear skies, you'll embark on an adventure full of fun and natural wonders.

Spring also brings wildlife activity, so you'll be able to spot migratory birds as they stop in the Florida swamps. From herons to ospreys and flamingos, these specimens will add to the mystery of your excursion. You may also come across alligators sunning themselves on the banks or turtles peeking out of the water.

During the hovercraft tour in Orlando, your expert guide will take you through intricate waterways and natural habitats. You'll learn about the fascinating history and ecology of the region, while enjoying the thrill of speed and 360° turns.

Join a hovercraft tour in Orlando

8. Celebrate the arrival of spring at the Spring Fiesta in the Park festival

Epcot Flower and Garden|©Brian Carey
Epcot Flower and Garden|©Brian Carey

Orlando's Spring Fiesta in the Park is an annual event that captivates the senses and brings joy to residents and visitors to the city. For two consecutive days in March, Lake Eola Park is transformed into the setting for a vibrant festival celebrating the arrival of spring.

The atmosphere at this event is magical. The park is decked out in an array of colours from seasonal flowers and festive decorations. Live music floats in the air, creating a joyful and energetic atmosphere that invites you to dance and enjoy every moment.

At the Spring Fiesta in the Park you can explore the craft stalls and flea markets of talented local artists and artisans. From handmade jewellery to original works of art, there's something for everyone.

In addition, children can enjoy interactive games, inflatables and thrill rides, while adults can relax on the lawn and enjoy live music. The event features performances by local talent and dance demonstrations, and also has a fall edition for you to discover if you plan to visit Orlando in November.

9. Visit the Econlockhatchee River on a kayak tour

Kayaking the Econlockhatchee|©Katie
Kayaking the Econlockhatchee|©Katie

Visiting the Econlockhatchee River on a spring kayaking tour is a captivating experience that will immerse you in Florida's natural beauty. Here you'll discover serene waters, lush vegetation and perfect weather between March and June each year.

Here you will have the opportunity to spot a wide variety of wildlife. From waterfowl to turtles and otters, Econlockhatchee is home to an abundance of fascinating species and some of Orlando's best beaches.

On the river you'll hear birdsong and watch them glide across the water, especially if you're planning a late night visit, in what is one of the best overnight activities in Orlando.

In addition to the scenic beauty, Econlockhatchee also offers moments of tranquillity and peace. The sound of rushing water and gentle breezes will envelop you in a sense of serenity. If you want a more complete option, in addition to kayaking you can opt for a hovercraft tour.

10. Discover the best views of the city from the Ferris wheel at Icon Park.

Icon Park|©Victor Walters
Icon Park|©Victor Walters

During the spring months, Icon Park's Ferris wheel offers an even more fascinating experience to discover the best views of the city.

As the days lengthen and nature awakens, the cityscape takes on a new vibrancy and from the top of the Ferris wheel you can watch the city transform with the arrival of flowers and the parks fill with colour as you enjoy one of the best things to do in Orlando.

In addition, during spring, the city comes alive with festivals and events that fill the streets with energy and colour. From the Ferris wheel, you'll discover the tents and decorated stalls, live music and entertainment that permeate the city during this time of year. The combination of urban panoramas and the festive atmosphere creates a unique and exciting experience for all visitors.

Every ride on the Ferris wheel during spring is like a magical journey through the colours and scents of the season. The panoramic views from the Icon Park attraction during the spring months are a real treat for the senses and an experience not to be missed, especially if you want to discover the Orlando skyline during the dry season.

Temperatures in Orlando in spring

Disney Springs, Orlando.|©Mario Gonzalez Leyva
Disney Springs, Orlando.|©Mario Gonzalez Leyva

Temperatures in Orlando during spring are pleasant and attract many visitors who wish to escape the cold of winter. With the arrival of spring, the average temperature ranges from 20° to 28°.

This season is perfect for exploring the theme parks, enjoying outdoor activities or guided tours of the city. Sunny days invite you to stroll through the city's gardens and parks, such as the lovely Lake Eola Park. In addition, moderate temperatures allow you to enjoy the water attractions without feeling the overwhelming heat of Orlando in July or during the summer months.

Book a guided tour in Orlando

Orlando's springtime tourist crowds

Orlando's tourist crowds|©Margalit Francus
Orlando's tourist crowds|©Margalit Francus

Spring is a busy time for tourists in Orlando. Many visitors from all over the world choose this season to enjoy the pleasant weather and explore the city's theme parks, although the explosion of visitors is largely from May onwards, making March and April one of the best times to explore the city at a leisurely pace.

The spring tourist season is also due to school holidays and festivals such as Easter and Spring Break. Many people take advantage of these days off to travel to Orlando and make the most of the attractions and entertainment the city has to offer, so if you avoid these holidays you can avoid the crowds.

Prices in Orlando in spring

Universal's Cabana Bay|©SNOW OPERADORA
Universal's Cabana Bay|©SNOW OPERADORA

Springtime prices in Orlando tend to be variable due to the influx of tourists and the demand for accommodation, theme park tickets and other services. Note that during school holidays and holidays such as Easter and Spring Break, prices are likely to be higher due to high demand, but outside of these peak dates, you can find deals and discounts.

In general, Orlando offers a wide range of options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget accommodation, restaurants and shops to suit all tastes and budgets. With a little planning you can enjoy all that the city has to offer in spring without compromising too much on your budget, even if you plan to visit Orlando in 3 days or for a shorter stay.

What to pack for a spring visit to Orlando?

Man with two suitcases in his hands|©ConvertKit
Man with two suitcases in his hands|©ConvertKit

In spring Orlando's weather is nice and dry, so I advise you to pack the following in your suitcase:

  • Lightweight T-shirts
  • Lightweight trousers
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Lightweight coat
  • Bathing suit
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Beach shoes