Top Reasons to Visit ICON Park Orlando

Orlando ICON Park

ICON Park Orlando on International Drive is quickly becoming one of the most popular entertainment districts outside of the theme parks. It offers over 40 diverse dining venues ranging from quick service to a whole celebrity dining experience, some funky bars and nightlife, unique boutique shops, and some extraordinary attractions and amusement rides, including the country's tallest swing ride. This one-stop entertainment area offers fun for the entire family and some very thrilling rides.

ICON Park is easily accessible, minutes from I-4 and the Beachline, right on International Drive. It's affordable, admission is free, and they even offer plenty of free parking. This is a great way to spend a day, an evening, or both. Take a break from visiting the theme parks and the long lines, and give your budget a vacation, too, with this exciting destination.

The Wheel at ICON Park

The signature attraction at ICON Park is The Wheel at ICON Park. This 400-foot tall observation wheel is visible from many parts of the city. A 20-minute ride in The Wheel will give you stunning views of the city of Orlando, Walt Disney World, Universal, and many of the gorgeous lakes and nature preserves of the area. You can go solo or go in a private capsule with up to 10 people. This one-of-a-kind, world-class attraction is your chance to enjoy a bird's eye view of the skyline of Orlando and the theme parks. There is simply no better way to view Orlando than soaring 400 feet in the area, in the safety of a private capsule.

Each capsule is air-conditioned and has stability control for a smooth and comfortable ride, and The Wheel is equipped with 64,000 color-changing LEDs that provide unique nightly light shows. It has been called the brightest beacon in the Orlando sky, and you can be inside it! The nightly light show adds to the drama, and it's all free even if you don't ride The Wheel. Take a private capsule with your family or friends and enjoy complimentary beer and wine. The Wheel has now become famous for events like proposals and weddings. What a memorable way to pop the question! 

Some of the sights you'll see are the natural beauty of many of Orlando's lakes like Big Sand Lake and Little Sand Lake, as well as many man-made bodies of water.

You will see all four Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney Springs, and many of the rides and the nightly fireworks from the top of The Wheel.

You'll also view many Central Florida landmarks, LEGOLAND, and lots more. 

From the peak of The Wheel, you'll also have a birds-eye view of many Universal highlights like Hogwarts castle, the Incredible Hulk Coaster, and Volcano Bay. Wow! 

The Wheel at ICON Park is family-friendly and appropriate for ages, and when you've completed your ride, lots more await on the ground in ICON Park. 

StarFlyer

For the adrenaline-junkies, nothing can match the Orlando StarFlyer. At 450 feet, it even towers over The Wheel and is the world's tallest swing ride. Imagine a 360-degree view of Orlando while you travel at speeds of up to 60 mph. The seatbelt, lap bar, and between-the-legs harness will keep you secure as you take this wild ride. Each of the 12 seats can accommodate two side-by-side guests - talk about speed dating! 

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Stop by SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium if you're ready to explore the oceans (without getting wet!). It has a 360-degree underwater tunnel that will let you plunge into the oceans. Get up close to thousands of fish, sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and more, and touch starfish and anemones. This is a great marine and aquatic experience where you'll see interactive dive shows and aquatic life from the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. 

Madame Tussauds Orlando

Are you ready to get up close and personal with some A-list celebrities, cultural icons, and some of history's most famous leaders? Get your selfie face on and visit Madame Tussauds Orlando, where you'll find Wonder Woman, sit down for a chat with Oprah, or co-host The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Everyone's favorites Elvis, Batman, Superman, and Aquaman will be there too. They encourage photography, so frame up your shot and take your ultimate selfie. 

In The Game ICON Park Orlando

In The Wheelhouse, at the foot of The Wheel, are some exciting new attractions and a great place for family-friendly competition. You'll find the latest in arcades and the 7D Motion Theatre, the stunning Mirror Maze, Virtual Reality experiences, games, and lots of prizes. They are open from 11 am to 11 pm. This is an excellent spot for a birthday party. Check with The Park team to set this up or other group events.

Pearl Express Train

The Pearl Express Train gives a gentle and fun ride around the park throughout the day. It is family-friendly, and the little ones will love it. It departs from The Wheelhouse Market throughout the day. 

Dining and Nightlife at ICON Park Orlando

Whether you are in the park for date night or with the entire family, you're sure to find a dining venue and cuisine that fits your taste and budget. With over 40 spots to choose from, there is truly something for everyone. Here are some of our favorites:

Hit up iCAfe de Paris for morning French crepes and other delicacies if you're an early bird. 

Start with well-known favorites like Buffalo Wild Wings, Outback Steakhouse, or Carrabba's Italian Grill for great American fare. 

Tin Roof is a favorite with live music and Executive Chef Will Zuchman crafting his unique menu items. For more entertainment, catch the nightly flamenco shows at Tapa Toro while you enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine shared around the paella pit. They have indoor and outdoor seating where you can enjoy the tapas menu, shareable paella, and other options. 

Blake Shelton's Ole Red Orlando has some very hot country acts, and you won't want to miss his made-from-scratch Fried Chicken, Turkey Shoot Burger, or the Redneck Mai Tai. 

Uncle Julio's offers excellent authentic Mexican food and the best fajitas, and try the signature Swirl margaritas or chocolate Pinata. 

For an American pub experience, visit Yard House, where they offer 140 taps of local, craft, and import draft beers, craft cocktails, and a diverse menu of made-from-scratch items. 

For a fast-casual meal, check out Gordon Ramsey's Fish & Chips for classic English street food with his takeaway-style British fish and chips, chicken and shrimp and Gordon's signature shakes, Sticky toffee, and Biscoff. 

When you're ready to relax and hang out with friends, iLounge Istanbul is just the spot. Smoke hookah, drink wine & beer and soak up the cozy atmosphere sitting on the patio with friends or that special person. 

You can rely on Shake Shack to deliver the fantastic 100% Angus beef burger for which they are known, griddled-crisp flat-top dogs or freshly made frozen custard. The kids' favorite.

When your sweet tooth is talking to you, Sugar Factory is just what the baker ordered. They serve up amazing crepes, milkshakes, and burgers—another way to give your budget a break and have a delicious meal. 

Don't forget The Wheelhouse Market, located directly below The Wheel, where they serve internationally inspired specialties like andouille sausage, Bavarian pretzels, and freshly baked cupcakes. 

Shopping 

ICON Park Orlando offers shopping that ranges from kiosks to casual boutiques and specialty shops. The Wheelhouse Gift Shop provides plenty of memorabilia like Florida plushes and unique apparel and souvenir items. Find more mementos and items at ICON Park Gifts

Kids (and adults) can explore the world of Build-A-Bear, where they will create their own inspired toys.

Shop for just the right pair of sunglasses at Calenoi Sunglasses, where the selection is stylish and fun. 

Shop more than 300 novelty candy and souvenir items at Sugar Factory, including their famous Couture Pops for the perfect sweet gift to bring home. 

Ticket Packages 

ICON Park offers a variety of ticket packages and passes. You always save when you book The Wheel online.

The Wheel VIP Experience includes a ride on The Wheel, ALL digital photos and discounts on printed products, select ICON Park retail items, and F&B at The Wheelhouse Market. 

You save over 50% on attractions and have other exclusive shopping and dining discounts with the Play Pass.

Combine multiple attractions and save with the Double Play that combines The Wheel with Madame Tussauds Orlando or SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. The Triple Play offers The Wheel, Madame Tussauds Orlando, and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.

Florida Residents can take advantage of a $2 discount when you book your general admission ticket online, and the VIP Experience provides access to all digital photos, discounts on printed products, and more. 

When you are building your Orlando itinerary, make sure to include ICON Park Orlando and book a ride on the spectacular Wheel at ICON Park.  Here are some other Epic Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks.