There are many things besides Disney parks to do in Orlando and today we will talk about a sensational entertainment complex currently called Icon Park.
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If you think there is a complex similar to this one in Orlando, there isn't, but it has changed names a few times in recent years.
It has been called ICON Orlando 360, I-Drive 360 and even the Orlando Eye in the past, despite that being the name of just one of its attractions.
Whenever someone talks about traveling to Orlando, the first thing that comes to mind is Disney World and its parks like Magic Kingdom, Animal kingdom and even the Universal parks and SeaWorld.
But there's so much more to Orlando than just those parks (we don't even need to mention the shopping and the outlets right heehehehe)
So, if you're planning a trip and wondering what to do in Icon Park Orlando, read on and start making plans, because this is one place where you can spend the whole day without breaking the bank!
Icon Park attractions in Orlando
The Icon Park Complex is basically an open-air mall on the International drive, the most famous avenue in Orlando.
It is within walking distance of the Wyndham International Drive, making it a super convenient place to spend a day, especially if you're staying there.
We even have a series of posts going into greater detail about what is on international drive:
So what is there to do at the Icon Park Complex? Various activities.
There are a multitude of restaurants, Shops and unique activities to experience.
So whether you're looking to shop, eat or see some unique sights, there's something for you to do at Icon Park.
So let's check out all the attractions you'll find at the Icon Park Complex in Orlando in 2023.
The Wheel at Icon Park
Formerly called the Orlando Eye, the The Wheel at Icon Park it's one of my favorite Orlando Icon Park experiences.
It's basically a big ferris wheel that moves very slowly and allows you to get a bird's-eye view of the city below.
It takes about 25 minutes to get around.
Each cabin on the Ferris wheel has air conditioning, which is a must here in central Florida, and it also has a tablet where you can learn fun facts about the city and the different buildings you might see on your trip.
In addition, it is possible to connect your cell phone via Bluetooth in the cabin and put on your favorite songs to play during the ride.
Not to mention she is super roomy and comfortable to travel with.
If you're afraid of heights, maybe it's better not to go because it's really high (it's 122 meters high), but at the same time you feel super safe inside.
Sea Life Aquarium
After the ferris wheel, without a doubt, the aquarium is my favorite attraction.
She is so much fun and if you have kids who like the ocean then this is a must!
It's a really cool walk through the aquarium and there's even a touch tank and playground inside!
It's nothing out of this world, but for aquarium and marine life lovers like me, it's a really fun attraction!
Orlando Star Flyer
The world's largest StarFlyer, it's an experience for the bravest of your group. No lie, I jumped on it!
While I don't care too much about heights on rides, this one really freaks me out a lot.
But it looked super cool and I talked to a lot of people who set it up and loved it!
So if you need a dose of excitement, this might be the one for you.
Skeletons: Museum of Osteology (Closed)
One of the newer attractions, Skeletons, is a really fun way to spend some time learning all about different animals.
You can check out more than 500 real skeletons and even see beetles eating meat.
It is something very different and interesting, especially for those who have children.
Madame Tussauds
The wax museum is really a fun attraction at Icon Park.
You've probably heard of the Madame Tussauds since it is a very famous network around the world.
You see wax figures of famous people, superheroes and much more!
This attraction is so much fun for both children as for adults, I'm sure your entire group will love it!
Arcade City
If you like arcade-style games like I do, then you're going to love this arcade!
Nath is certainly afraid of losing me in this place, because I love these electronic games!
This is one of the best arcades in Orlando, so it's definitely worth checking out the next time you're in Icon Park.
7-D Dark Ride
This is a fun attraction style video game with virtual reality.
There are different scenarios for the game but all of them are first person shooter style.
They certainly drew inspiration from that attraction at The Void from Disney springs.
Pearl Express Train
Finally, you and the kids can take a ride in the park on the Pearl Express train.
It's a very inexpensive tour too, which is really nice if you're trying to stay on a budget.
Icon Park Orlando restaurants
No tour in Orlando is complete without a good place to eat, right?
In Icon Park it would not be different, there are several restaurants there. We haven't had the opportunity to try them all yet but we already know enough to give you a good idea of the best options.
Are they:
Yard house
Yard House, a relaxed, casual restaurant with an impressive beer list and a front-row seat to The Wheel at ICON Park Orlando.
While previously a lunch and dinner only restaurant, the restaurant has recently launched weekend brunch service.
I would say their style is more “bar” style, but very tidy, similar to Millers Ale House.
Despite being bar style and the place is big, it is not noisy and not too crowded, so it is possible to have a quiet meal.
If you want to watch a game, it is possible that you will find more crowds there!
Shake shake
We've talked a lot about Shake Shack around here and it's one of our favorite burgers in Orlando.
We especially like the potato there! Be sure to check out our blog post here about Shake Shack.
Sugar Factory
This all-American brasserie is sure to satisfy the sweet tooth cravings of tourists and visitors to Icon Park Orlando.
Upscale classics are served from brunch to late night, ranging from crepes to delicious milkshakes, gourmet burgers, ice cream sandwiches and much more.
Tapa Toro Spanish Restaurant
At Tapa Toro, they combine contemporary Spanish cuisine with a vibrant and energetic atmosphere to bring a fresh dining experience to International Drive.
A great choice for adults looking for a different meal from traditional orlando restaurants like Olive garden and Red Lobster in Orlando.
Flamenco dancers perform at 7pm each night.
Uncle Julio's Mexican Restaurant
Excellent Mexican food and a cozy place! A delicious combination to end the day!
ILounge Istanbul
ICafe de Paris
I don't know about you, but I love a mid-afternoon cup of coffee, and iCafe de Paris is a great place to take that mid-day break.
Divine sweets in a lovely place! Try the “chocolate twist”, it's perfect! Nutella crepes are also delicious!
Outback Steakhouse
Needless to say, the classic and famous outback steakhouse.
The menu is not so different from what we find in Brazil.
Ben & Jerry's
Another “snack bar” already known to some Brazilians as it already exists in some states!
Here you will find wonderful ice creams to cool off on the hottest days.
Buffalo Wild Wings
This cafeteria more in style fast–food has wonderful chicken wings!
You can also find other things like burgers and fries.
Carrabba's Italian Grill
Mikado Japanese Steakhouse
According to the company itself:
“We are pleased to offer you an exceptionally fun dining experience and interactive dining experience.
Using the freshest ingredients and the perfect seasoning, they'll fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous experience for the whole family.
If it's sushi you crave, we offer a complete sushi bar for even the most demanding tastes. Our sushi experts go above and beyond to offer the freshest sushi, sashimi and flatbreads.”
Let's agree that having a “private” chef cook your food at your table is always an interesting experience!
Ox Grill Contemporary Cuisine (Closed)
Ox Grill offers chocolate lamb chops to seafood squid tonnarelli.
A sophisticated restaurant with very well prepared dishes.
A cool curiosity is that the chef of this restaurant is the Brazilian Marcelos Benegas!
Is it worth visiting Icon Park Orlando?
We believe so!
Honestly, we don't think it's an attraction that will replace a theme park like Island of Adventure or Epcot.
But if your trip is long enough and you want a less tiring day than one of the Disney parks in between, we believe Icon Park will be an excellent alternative.
Especially if you have kids and are planning a most economical trip to orlando.
For this is a less costly attraction than the Thematic parks more famous.
If you have any questions, be sure to visit the official website of Icon Park Orlando.
I hope again that this post helped you in your research for your trip to Disney or Orlando.
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About the Author Carlos Braga:
Unparalleled experience in Orlando and Disney! As a former Universal Orlando team member and a passionate devotee of the magic of Disney, I have become a true Orlando travel expert. Before becoming a renowned travel consultant dedicated to Orlando, I had already made hundreds of visits to the parks, cultivating my knowledge and passion mainly over the last 7 years as a consultant and specialist in Disney travel.
My journey into this enchanted world began in 1995, when I took my first trip to Orlando. Since then, my love for Disney and the city has only grown. In 2023, we celebrate the sixth anniversary of 'Partiu Disney Parks', consolidating our role as one of the main sources of information about Disney and Orlando Parks.
During these six years of existence, we have continued to offer quality and updated content, being the reliable source for all those looking for essential information to plan their trip to Disney and Orlando. With my vast experience and passion for this magical destination, I am here to guide you every step of the way towards the most incredible Orlando and Disney experience!
