Orlando is known for theme parks, but Central Florida is also packed with natural springs, wetlands, hiking trails and wildlife. If you have an early hotel checkout and a late flight from Orlando International Airport (MCO), you can even turn your last day into another outdoor adventure. Bagzee can pick up your luggage and deliver it to the airport, so you can explore Orlando without dragging suitcases along.
Here are five of the best nature-focused things to do in and around Orlando.
1. Swim or Kayak at Wekiwa Springs State Park
About 30 minutes north of downtown Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park is one of Central Florida’s most popular natural escapes. Swim in the freshwater spring, rent a kayak or canoe, or hike through shaded Florida wilderness.
Best for: Swimming, kayaking and hiking.
2. Float Down Rock Springs at Kelly Park
At Kelly Park, crystal-clear Rock Springs creates a natural lazy river surrounded by tropical vegetation. Bring or rent a tube and float downstream, or spend a few hours picnicking and exploring the park.
Best for: Tubing, families and hot Florida days.
3. Hike Tibet-Butler Preserve
Located near the Walt Disney World area, Tibet-Butler Preserve offers several miles of peaceful hiking trails through wetlands, pine forests and lakeside habitat.
It’s an easy way to experience Florida nature without traveling far from Orlando’s main tourism districts.
Best for: Short hikes, birdwatching and wildlife photography.
4. Walk Through Mead Botanical Garden
Just north of Orlando in Winter Park, Mead Botanical Garden features 47 acres of gardens, ponds, boardwalks and walking trails.
Admission is free, making it an easy option for travelers looking for a quiet outdoor activity without committing to a full-day excursion.
Best for: Relaxing walks, gardens and birdwatching.
5. Spot Wildlife at Orlando Wetlands
For one of the best wildlife experiences near Orlando, visit Orlando Wetlands. The expansive wetland habitat has miles of walking and biking trails plus a long boardwalk through the marsh.
Keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, wading birds and other native Florida wildlife.
Best for: Wildlife, photography and longer nature walks.
Make Your Last Day in Orlando Count
If your flight leaves later in the day, there is no reason to spend the hours after checkout sitting in a hotel lobby or airport terminal.
With Bagzee, travelers can arrange luggage pickup from their Orlando hotel, Airbnb or vacation rental and have their bags delivered to Orlando International Airport for pickup before their flight.
That means your final few hours in Florida can be spent kayaking a spring, hiking through wetlands or spotting wildlife—not carrying your luggage around Orlando.