This fascinating science amusement park is a modern fun-house of high-tech gadgetry and hands-on discovery for inquisitive young minds.
Nothing is what it seems at WonderWorks Orlando. It starts with the building, which resembles an upside-down white stucco mansion. This self-proclaimed “amusement park for the mind” is devoted to the wonders of science and nature and aims to fire the imagination of young and old.
This unusual attraction has a rich visual appeal throughout, yet virtually all of the 100 or more exhibits have an interactive and educational quality too. After passing through the gravity-defying inversion tunnel you will be subjected to the full force of nature. Experience the sensation of a magnitude-5.3 earthquake or be swept off your feet by a simulated hurricane-force wind, a great photo opportunity.
High-tech virtual reality gadgets play a key role at WonderWorks, giving both mind and body a strenuous workout and endless fun. Fly a jet fighter simulator or experience high-speed visual thrills on the XD Theater 4D extreme motion ride. In the popular WonderCoasters exhibit, design your own virtual roller coaster and then climb aboard and ride it.
Explore the art of illusion, play with shadows and get creative with color in the Light and Sound Zone.
Sharp shooters of all ages can get competitive with a game of all-action Lazer Tag, set in a huge back-lit maze. For a “relaxing” contrast, get horizontal on a real bed of nails. To round off the day in style, finish up at the Outta Control Dinner Show for entertainment including improvised comedy, magic and music to accompany unlimited food and wine.
There is such a lot to take in and experience, especially for kids with a lot of energy to burn, so allow at least three to four hours for your visit. Some of WonderWorks' exhibits have a minimum height restriction for children.
WonderWorks is located on International Drive less than two miles (3.2 kilometers) from downtown Orlando. Pay to park in the nearby lot or use the I-Ride Trolley service, which stops at a number of attractions along International Drive.
WonderWorks is open every day of the year.