Your Universal Studios Orlando vacation is booked, the park tickets are ready, and you’ve already mapped out every ride you plan to hit. But here’s something most visitors don’t realize until it’s too late: some of the most memorable moments in Orlando happen outside the park gates.
Central Florida is packed with outdoor adventures, natural wonders, and uniquely Floridian experiences that you simply can’t get anywhere else in the world. Better yet, many of them are within 30 minutes of Universal Studios Orlando — and they don’t require a $150 park ticket.
Whether you’re looking for a morning activity before the parks open, a full day off from the crowds, or an experience the kids will still be talking about years from now, this guide covers the best things to do near Universal Studios Orlando. We’ve also included one activity that surprises families every single time: trophy bass fishing on Lake Tohopekaliga — Florida’s #1 bass lake, just 30 miles south of the park.
Key Takeaways
- Universal Studios is surrounded by world-class outdoor activities and easy day trips throughout Central Florida
- Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho) is just 30 minutes south — Florida’s #1 trophy bass fishing destination
- Most activities on this list welcome beginners and require zero prior experience
- Many options pair perfectly with a park day — especially early morning charters before noon
- A 2-hour bass fishing charter starting at $250 fits easily into any vacation schedule
Table of Contents
1. Bass Fishing on Lake Tohopekaliga — The Surprise 30 Minutes South
Ask any Florida local what to do near Universal Studios, and they’ll mention the theme parks. Ask a fisherman, and they’ll tell you about Lake Tohopekaliga.
Located in Kissimmee — just 30 miles south of Universal Studios — Lake Toho is widely regarded as one of the top trophy largemouth bass fisheries in the entire United States. This is where Florida’s largest bass congregate, where tournament anglers travel from across the country, and where families walk away with photos of fish they never imagined catching on a family vacation.
You don’t need any experience. You don’t need gear. The professional guide services on Lake Toho handle everything — rods, bait, tackle, fishing licenses, and hands-on instruction are all included. You show up, and they put you on fish.
What Makes Lake Toho Special for Vacationers?
Lake Tohopekaliga covers nearly 22,700 acres of clear Florida water surrounded by cypress trees, lily pads, and native marsh grass. The water temperature stays warm year-round, which means bass are active whether you visit in January or July. During summer — peak vacation season — bass stack up in the shallows in the early morning hours, making for some of the most consistent action of the year.
The lake holds the record for the most certified trophy bass (10 pounds or larger) caught by guided customers — a distinction that draws serious anglers from around the world. But just as often, it’s a dad from Ohio who’s never held a fishing rod before, standing at the back of a bass boat with an 8-pounder, wearing the biggest smile you’ve ever seen.
For families with younger kids who want a more relaxed pace, pontoon fishing is ideal. Pontoons are wider, more stable, and offer comfortable seating — a great way to introduce young anglers to fishing without the intensity of a fast bass boat.
How to Book a Fishing Charter Near Universal Studios
Lake Toho Guides is the oldest and largest guide service on the lake — operating continuously since the 1980s. The service runs both bass boats (for up to 2 anglers) and pontoon boats (great for families or groups of up to 6).
Trip options start with a quick 2-hour charter — perfect if you want to squeeze in a morning on the water before hitting a park in the afternoon. For families who want to commit to a full fishing experience, the 4-hour charter gives guides time to work multiple spots and significantly improves the odds of landing a trophy fish.
Browse the customer reviews — hundreds of five-star trips from vacationers just like you. Most charters launch between 6 and 7 AM, which means you can be back at the dock by 9 or 10 AM and at a park entrance by 11.
Distance from Universal Studios: Approximately 30 miles south via FL-417. Drive time: 35–45 minutes.
2. Wekiwa Springs State Park
Located about 15 miles north of Universal Studios, Wekiwa Springs State Park is one of Central Florida’s most beloved natural escapes. The park’s natural spring maintains a constant 68°F year-round — making it an ideal swimming hole on a blazing Florida summer day when the parks feel like walking through an oven.
Families can swim in the spring, paddle along Wekiva River, hike shaded trails through longleaf pine flatwoods, and spot native Florida wildlife including otters, white-tailed deer, and wading birds. The park is managed by the Florida State Parks system and offers a dramatically different pace from the bustle of any theme park.
Distance from Universal Studios: Approximately 14 miles north. Drive time: 20–25 minutes.
Admission: $6 per vehicle.
3. Gatorland
Billed as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland has been a Florida institution since 1949. Located on South Orange Blossom Trail — about 20 minutes from Universal — this 110-acre wildlife preserve lets visitors get up close (and sometimes very close) to hundreds of alligators and crocodiles in their natural-style habitat.
For adventurous families, the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line sends riders gliding over open gator pens. There’s also a breeding marsh, native bird sanctuary, and gator wrestling shows throughout the day. It’s authentic Florida at its most wild — and genuinely unlike anything at a theme park.
Distance from Universal Studios: About 16 miles south. Drive time: 20–25 minutes.
Admission: Adults $32–$36; children $22–$25. Check gatorland.com for current rates.
4. ICON Park on International Drive
If you’re looking for something close to Universal — practically walking distance — ICON Park on International Drive is a solid option. The entertainment complex features a 400-foot observation wheel (The Wheel at ICON Park), Sea Life Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, several restaurants, and an outdoor plaza with regular events and live performers.
It’s a great early-evening option after a long park day when you want something low-key but still engaging for the kids. The Wheel offers spectacular panoramic views of the Orlando skyline at dusk, and the aquarium is air-conditioned relief from the summer heat.
Distance from Universal Studios: About 2 miles south on International Drive. 5–10 minutes by car or rideshare.
5. Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is one of those old-Florida gems that has been running continuously since 1938. The 1-hour guided tour winds through a chain of seven lakes connected by narrow canals, passing lakefront mansions, ancient cypress trees, and the lush campus of Rollins College.
This is one of the most relaxing experiences in the Orlando area — quiet, scenic, and completely different from anything at a theme park. Tour boats depart frequently throughout the day from Lake Osceola in the heart of downtown Winter Park. Pair it with lunch or coffee on Park Avenue for a full afternoon.
Distance from Universal Studios: About 12 miles northeast. Drive time: 20–25 minutes.
Admission: Approximately $16 for adults; $8 for children under 11.
6. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
For space-obsessed kids and adults alike, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is one of the most spectacular day trips you can take from Universal Studios. Located on Florida’s Space Coast, visitors can see actual NASA rockets up close, explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, watch active launch preparations, and meet astronauts on select days.
The center’s new attractions continue to expand alongside ongoing SpaceX and NASA missions — making it one of the most relevant, exciting, and genuinely educational destinations in the country. If you only have time for one day trip from Universal, this one competes with the fishing charter for the top spot.
Distance from Universal Studios: About 60 miles east via FL-528. Drive time: 60–75 minutes.
Admission: $75+ for adults; $65+ for children. Reserve in advance at kennedyspacecenter.com.
7. Blue Spring State Park
About 40 minutes north of Universal Studios, Blue Spring State Park is one of the few places in Florida where you can reliably see manatees in the wild — especially from November through March when manatees crowd the warm spring run to escape cooler river temperatures.
In summer, the spring opens for swimming, snorkeling, and tubing in water that holds a constant 72°F. The crystal-clear spring and shaded riverbank make it an ideal escape from the summer heat. After a morning at the springs, the short drive back toward Universal passes right through some of Central Florida’s most scenic rural backroads.
Distance from Universal Studios: About 35 miles north. Drive time: 40–50 minutes via I-4.
Admission: $6 per vehicle.
8. Discovery Cove
If a fully immersive marine wildlife experience is on your family’s bucket list, Discovery Cove delivers. Adjacent to SeaWorld Orlando — about 15 minutes from Universal — Discovery Cove offers intimate swim-with-dolphins programs, snorkeling with tropical fish and rays, bird encounters, and a lazy river flowing through aviaries and naturalistic habitats.
Admission is limited to a set number of guests per day, so the park never feels crowded. It’s one of the quietest, most relaxing full-day experiences in the Orlando area — and the dolphin interaction consistently ranks among the top vacation memories families report years later.
Distance from Universal Studios: About 7 miles south. Drive time: 15–20 minutes.
Admission: Varies by package ($199+). Reserve well in advance as availability is extremely limited.
9. Bok Tower Gardens
For something completely different, Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is one of Central Florida’s most serene and historically significant destinations. The 250-acre botanical garden surrounds a 205-foot Art Deco carillon tower — designated a National Historic Landmark — set on one of the highest natural elevations in peninsular Florida.
The tower’s 60-bell carillon performs concerts at 1 PM and 3 PM daily. The gardens are especially beautiful in the early morning when light filters through the pine canopy. Recommended for families with older children who appreciate natural beauty and a slower pace. Pairs nicely with an afternoon back in Kissimmee near Lake Toho.
Distance from Universal Studios: About 55 miles south. Drive time: 60 minutes.
Admission: $20 for adults; $5 for children ages 5–12.
10. Local Florida Food Experiences
No trip to Central Florida is complete without eating like a local. Skip the chain restaurants on International Drive and look for these uniquely Florida dining moments near Kissimmee and the Universal area:
- Fresh catfish and gator tail — Old-Florida seafood shacks around Kissimmee and Osceola County serve catfish platters and fried gator that you genuinely can’t find anywhere else in the country.
- Cuban food in Kissimmee — The region’s large Cuban community has built a remarkable dining scene. Look for authentic Cuban sandwiches, ropa vieja, and fresh-squeezed sugarcane juice.
- Florida citrus stands — On rural routes between Kissimmee and Lake Toho, small roadside stands sell tree-fresh Florida oranges, grapefruits, and homemade key lime products straight from local groves.
- Waterfront dining on Lake Toho — After a morning fishing charter, several restaurants in Kissimmee and St. Cloud offer lakefront views across Lake Toho’s open water — the perfect way to end a fishing morning.
Planning Your Day Trip from Universal Studios Orlando
Distance and Drive Times at a Glance
| Destination | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Toho (bass fishing) | ~30 miles | 35–45 min |
| Wekiwa Springs State Park | ~14 miles | 20–25 min |
| Gatorland | ~16 miles | 20–25 min |
| ICON Park | ~2 miles | 5–10 min |
| Winter Park Boat Tour | ~12 miles | 20–25 min |
| Kennedy Space Center | ~60 miles | 60–75 min |
| Blue Spring State Park | ~35 miles | 40–50 min |
| Discovery Cove | ~7 miles | 15–20 min |
Best Time to Book a Fishing Charter in Summer
Summer fishing on Lake Toho is all about the early morning. Bass are most active in the cooler pre-dawn hours and through midmorning before the Florida sun climbs high. Most charters launch between 6 and 7 AM — which means you can be back at the dock by 9 or 10 AM and at a theme park entrance by 11.
July in Central Florida brings afternoon thunderstorms almost daily. These typically roll through between 2 and 4 PM, so morning charters almost always avoid weather entirely. The expert fishing guides on Lake Toho are flexible with rescheduling if conditions turn unsafe.
For families with younger children who want a more relaxed pace, pontoon fishing is ideal. Pontoons are wider, more stable, and offer comfortable seating and shade — making them perfect for introducing young kids to the sport without the intensity of a narrow bass boat. Multiple family members can fish together on the same pontoon, and captains adjust the pace to match the group.
What to Pack for a Day Trip from Universal Studios
For a morning fishing charter: sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little fishy. Wear closed-toe shoes on the boat. A light jacket is handy for early morning departures, especially if you’re visiting in cooler months. Water bottles and a small snack are always welcome. All fishing equipment, bait, tackle, and licenses are provided — you don’t need to bring anything fishing-related.
For state park visits: wear comfortable walking shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack insect repellent. Florida summers are hot and humid, so light breathable clothing is essential. Most state parks have basic facilities but limited food options, so bring snacks if you plan to stay for several hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Lake Tohopekaliga from Universal Studios Orlando?
Lake Tohopekaliga is approximately 30 miles south of Universal Studios Orlando via FL-417. Most guests make the drive in 35–45 minutes depending on traffic. The lake is located in Kissimmee, Florida, in Osceola County — an easy morning excursion before or after park days.
Is bass fishing good for beginners and kids?
Absolutely. The majority of anglers on Lake Toho are first-timers or recreational fishers, not tournament pros. Expert guides provide all equipment, bait, and patient instruction throughout the trip. No experience is required — guides specialize in making fishing accessible, safe, and genuinely fun for every skill level, including young children and complete beginners.
Can families with young children go on Lake Toho fishing charters?
Yes — children are welcome on both bass boat and pontoon charters. Families with young children tend to prefer the pontoon option for its stability, extra space, and covered seating. Guides are patient and experienced with kids, and many of the best reviews on Lake Toho Guides specifically mention children’s excitement at catching their first fish. A 2-hour charter is an excellent length for families with younger kids who may have shorter attention spans.
What are the best outdoor activities near Universal Studios?
The top outdoor activities near Universal Studios include bass fishing on Lake Tohopekaliga (30 min south), swimming at Wekiwa Springs State Park (20 min north), kayaking along Wekiva River, and wildlife encounters at Gatorland (20 min south). For a full day trip, Kennedy Space Center (60 min east) and Blue Spring State Park (45 min north) are both exceptional options.
Are there free things to do near Universal Studios Orlando?
Florida state parks charge just $6 per vehicle — Wekiwa Springs and Blue Spring are both excellent value and effectively free for larger families. Walking CityWalk at Universal is complimentary once you’re on the property. Winter Park’s Park Avenue district is free to explore, with world-class restaurants and boutique shopping. The activities that do charge admission — Gatorland, Discovery Cove, Kennedy Space Center — are all well worth the investment compared to a second theme park day.
When is the best time of year to visit Lake Toho for fishing?
Lake Toho offers excellent fishing year-round, but the two peak seasons are winter through spring (December to April) when cold northern weather drives Florida bass into predictable spawning patterns, and summer (June to August) when families are in town and early morning fishing is outstanding. The lake is just 30 minutes from Universal Studios, making it one of the most convenient world-class fishing destinations in North America for Orlando-area visitors.
Make Your Orlando Vacation Unforgettable — Book a Morning on the Water
Orlando has far more to offer than its famous theme parks. Whether you spend a morning swimming in a crystal-clear spring, watching alligators at a 75-year-old Florida institution, or getting a front-row view of actual NASA hardware at Kennedy Space Center — every one of these experiences adds something to your trip that a park ticket simply can’t provide.
But if you only have time for one extra activity beyond the parks, make it a fishing charter on Lake Tohopekaliga.
There’s something about standing on a bass boat as the Florida sun comes up over the water — quiet, cool, the air smelling like cypress and morning mist — that resets everything. The guide spots a bass at the edge of a lily pad, your line goes taut, and suddenly you’re holding the biggest fish you’ve ever seen in person. That moment doesn’t care how old you are, whether you’ve ever fished before, or whether you planned to spend the day at Hogsmeade instead.
Lake Toho Guides has been creating those moments since the 1980s — the oldest, most experienced guide service on Florida’s #1 bass lake. Trips start at $220, all equipment is included, and 24/7 online booking means you can lock in your spot right now.
