Things to Do Thanksgiving Weekend in Orlando (2026)

Planning a Thanksgiving Weekend in Orlando?

Thanksgiving weekend is a popular time to visit Orlando, with family attractions, seasonal celebrations, outdoor activities and holiday events giving visitors plenty of ways to fill a long weekend. Whether you're visiting relatives, spending the school break in Central Florida or planning a family vacation, there are activities to suit different ages and interests.

Thanksgiving Day falls on Thursday, November 26, in 2026, followed by the long holiday weekend from Friday, November 27, through Sunday, November 29. It's also an exciting time to visit Orlando as holiday celebrations begin at attractions throughout the area.

For families planning a day on International Drive, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers an indoor underwater adventure with thousands of marine creatures, interactive exhibits and Florida's only 360-degree ocean tunnel. Located at ICON Park, the aquarium is an easy addition to a day exploring Orlando's dining, entertainment and attractions.

From underwater discoveries to Thanksgiving weekend festivals and the first signs of the holiday season, here are some ideas for planning your Orlando getaway.

1. Explore SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Looking for family-friendly things to do in Orlando over Thanksgiving weekend? Make time to explore SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, an indoor attraction at ICON Park on International Drive.

Home to more than 5,000 creatures across nine themed zones, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium gives families an opportunity to discover marine life from different ocean environments. Walk through immersive underwater displays, watch sharks and rays glide through the water, and look for sea turtles, jellyfish, seahorses and other fascinating creatures.

Because the aquarium is indoors, it's also a useful option when Florida's November weather brings rain or your family wants a break from outdoor activities.

Walk Through Florida's Only 360-Degree Ocean Tunnel

One of the highlights of SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is its 360-degree Ocean Tunnel. As you walk through the underwater environment, marine life moves around and above you, offering views of sharks, rays, sea turtles and schools of fish.

The tunnel gives visitors a different perspective on life beneath the water and creates opportunities for family photos and memorable moments together.

Take your time looking in every direction. You may spot something swimming overhead that you missed just a few steps earlier.

Discover the Aquarium's Nine Themed Zones

There's more to explore beyond the Ocean Tunnel. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium features exhibits that introduce visitors to a variety of aquatic creatures and habitats.

Highlights include:

• 360 Ocean Tunnel: Experience an immersive underwater view surrounded by marine life.

• Indian Ocean: Discover the aquarium's marine life, including Ted the loggerhead sea turtle.

• Jelly Wall Exhibit: Watch jellyfish move through illuminated displays.

• Coastal Rockpool Exhibit: Get a closer look at coastal creatures and discover the interactive touch experience.

• Feeding Frenzy: Explore another fascinating part of the aquarium's underwater world.

Each exhibit offers something different to discover, making the aquarium an engaging stop for families exploring Orlando during the holiday weekend.

Make Time for Interactive Experiences

An aquarium visit is about more than looking through glass. At the Coastal Rockpool Exhibit, visitors can learn about coastal marine life through an interactive experience with creatures such as sea stars and anemones.

Depending on the day's schedule, guests may also be able to enjoy creature talks, feedings or additional experiences. Check the aquarium's operating hours and available activities before visiting so you can plan your day.

Planning tip: Allow approximately one to one and a half hours for a typical visit, with extra time if you want to explore at a relaxed pace or participate in additional experiences.

Why Visit an Aquarium Over Thanksgiving Weekend?

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium can fit into several types of Thanksgiving itineraries. Visit in the morning before meeting family for dinner, plan an afternoon activity after a relaxed holiday breakfast, or add the aquarium to a full day of exploring International Drive.

For families traveling with children, an indoor attraction also offers a convenient alternative to spending the entire day outdoors.

2. Spend the Day Exploring ICON Park

After visiting SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, continue exploring ICON Park, an entertainment destination on International Drive with attractions, restaurants and places to relax.

ICON Park makes it possible to combine several activities in one area rather than spending your entire day traveling between different parts of Orlando.

Depending on your interests, you can add another attraction, enjoy a meal or take a stroll through the entertainment complex.

See Orlando From the Orlando Eye

The Orlando Eye offers a different perspective on Central Florida from its 400-foot observation wheel. Guests ride in air-conditioned glass capsules and take in panoramic views of the surrounding area.

A flight on the Orlando Eye can complement an aquarium visit, especially if your family wants to experience both underwater discoveries and elevated views of the city during the same outing.

Meet Celebrity Wax Figures at Madame Tussauds Orlando

Another nearby option is Madame Tussauds Orlando, where visitors can pose for photos with lifelike wax figures representing celebrities, musicians, athletes and other well-known personalities.

It's an option for families and groups who want to add pop culture, sports and entertainment to their Thanksgiving weekend plans.

Turn Your Visit Into a Multi-Attraction Day

With SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, the Orlando Eye and Madame Tussauds Orlando all at ICON Park, you can build an itinerary around the interests of your group.

Check current ticket combinations and admission details before your visit to see which options best fit your plans.

3. Experience Orlando's Holiday Attractions

Thanksgiving weekend marks the beginning of the holiday season at many Orlando attractions. If you're visiting from out of town, this can be an opportunity to combine traditional vacation activities with seasonal entertainment.

Several major attractions begin their holiday celebrations before or around Thanksgiving weekend, although individual dates, admission requirements and operating schedules vary.

Visit LEGOLAND® Florida Resort for Christmas Bricktacular

Located in Winter Haven, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is another option for families planning a Central Florida holiday getaway. Christmas Bricktacular begins on select dates in November and continues into the holiday season.

Families can combine rides, LEGO® building experiences and seasonal activities during a visit to the theme park.

Check the event schedule for the specific dates you plan to visit, as holiday activities do not necessarily operate every day.

Look for Holiday Celebrations at Orlando's Theme Parks

Orlando's major theme parks begin introducing seasonal entertainment in November. Holiday decorations, special performances and themed experiences can make the Thanksgiving period a particularly festive time to visit.

If visiting a major theme park is part of your plans, review the schedule and admission requirements in advance. Some seasonal events are included with regular admission, while others require separate tickets.

For families who prefer a shorter attraction visit between larger theme park days, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers a way to explore another side of Orlando without committing an entire day to a theme park.

4. Attend a Local Thanksgiving Weekend Festival

Theme parks and major attractions aren't the only options for Thanksgiving weekend. Orlando also hosts community events and cultural celebrations that offer a different way to experience the city.

Explore FusionFest on November 28–29

FusionFest returns to Orlando over Thanksgiving weekend on November 28 and 29, 2026. The multicultural festival celebrates the traditions, food, music, art and experiences of communities from around the world.

Visitors can explore cultural presentations, performances, food and interactive activities while discovering the diversity of Central Florida.

FusionFest is a useful option for travelers who want to add a community festival to their holiday itinerary. Check the event's current schedule and details before making plans.

Enjoy International Drive's Dining and Entertainment

If you would rather keep your schedule flexible, spend part of the weekend exploring International Drive. The area offers a variety of dining options and attractions, making it convenient for families who want to combine sightseeing with a meal.

A visit to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium can serve as the centerpiece of an International Drive outing, with time afterward for lunch, dinner or another nearby activity.

For visitors staying in a vacation rental or hotel, this flexibility can be especially helpful when coordinating plans with family members who have different interests.

5. Plan an Indoor Activity for a Rainy Day

Florida's late-November weather can be pleasant, but rain is always possible. Keeping an indoor activity on your itinerary gives you an alternative if outdoor plans need to change.

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is an indoor attraction, so you can explore its exhibits without relying on the weather.

The aquarium is also an option for families who want to slow down after busy days at the theme parks. Instead of planning another full day of rides and outdoor walking, you can spend time observing marine life and exploring at your own pace.

Other indoor attractions around International Drive can help round out your itinerary, depending on the ages and interests of your group.

Helpful planning tip: Thanksgiving weekend can be busy throughout Orlando. Check attraction hours, purchase tickets in advance when appropriate and allow additional time for traffic and parking.

6. Create a Family-Friendly Thanksgiving Weekend Itinerary

The best Thanksgiving weekend itinerary depends on how long you're staying, where you're lodging and whether you want to prioritize theme parks, attractions or local events.

Here is one way to organize a three-day visit without trying to fit everything into a single day.

If your trip includes young children, consider planning one main activity each day rather than filling every available hour. A little flexibility can make a holiday trip easier for everyone.

Sample Half-Day Plan at ICON Park

If you're looking for a shorter outing during Thanksgiving weekend, consider this sample schedule:

Morning: Arrive at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and explore the nine themed zones, including the 360-degree Ocean Tunnel and Coastal Rockpool Exhibit.

Late morning: Continue to another attraction at ICON Park, such as the Orlando Eye or Madame Tussauds Orlando, depending on your group's interests.

Lunch: Choose a nearby restaurant and take a break before continuing your day.

Afternoon: Explore more of International Drive or return to your hotel to rest before Thanksgiving weekend dinner plans.

Allow enough time for each activity, and confirm opening hours and admission details before your visit.

7. Tips for Visiting Orlando Over Thanksgiving Weekend

Thanksgiving is a popular travel period, so planning a few details in advance can help your trip run smoothly.

Book Attractions in Advance

Check ticket availability and operating hours before your visit. Holiday schedules can differ from normal operating hours, including on Thanksgiving Day itself.

Choose Activities Near Each Other

Grouping attractions by location can reduce time spent driving across Orlando. ICON Park is a practical place to plan multiple activities because SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, the Orlando Eye and Madame Tussauds Orlando are all located within the same entertainment destination.

Balance Theme Parks With Shorter Attractions

A multi-day vacation doesn't need to involve a major theme park every day. Consider mixing full-day outings with shorter experiences, such as an aquarium visit, to give your group time to relax.

Prepare for Florida Weather

Late November can bring a mix of warm, sunny weather and rain. Pack clothing suitable for changing conditions and keep an indoor attraction in mind as an alternative to outdoor activities.

Confirm Thanksgiving Day Hours

Do not assume every attraction or restaurant will operate on its usual schedule on Thursday, November 26. Check the hours for your preferred activities and make dining reservations where needed.

Make SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium Part of Your Thanksgiving Plans

Thanksgiving weekend is an opportunity to enjoy Orlando beyond the dinner table. From seasonal festivals and holiday celebrations to family attractions along International Drive, there are plenty of ways to build a memorable long weekend.

At SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, you can discover thousands of marine creatures, explore interactive exhibits and experience Florida's only 360-degree Ocean Tunnel, all in an indoor setting at ICON Park.

Whether you're planning a dedicated aquarium visit or adding a few attractions to a longer Orlando vacation, make time to discover what's waiting beneath the surface this Thanksgiving weekend.

Plan your visit to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and start building your Orlando holiday itinerary.