9 Best Museums to Visit in Orlando, Florida

Orlando is a world-renowned destination thanks to its amusement parks, such as Disney World and Universal Studios. Many travelers from the United States come to this famous metropolis to explore these iconic attractions. However, there are other beautiful things that many visitors ignore, such as the museums.

Fantastic Museums in Orlando

If you want to take a break from the Florida sun and the hectic atmosphere of the theme parks to do something indoors with air conditioning, check out these 9 Orlando museums, where you’re sure to have an unforgettable time. Read on to the end to find out which ones you might like the most! 

1. Orlando Science Center 

• Address: 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803

For over 60 years, the Orlando Science Center has been the perfect spot to awaken curiosity and exploration in children and adults. For those seeking the best science museum in Orlando, the Orlando Science Center is the place to go.

Visitors will find four floors of interactive science exhibits, dinosaur skeletons, 3D movies, live animals, and planetarium shows. The Orlando Science Center offers activities for people of all ages, such as interactive kid’s zones and adults-only nights. Each floor in this building presents something entertaining and unique.

Families will be mesmerized by this Orlando museum since kids and adults will have a great time there.

Related: 23 Fun Activities in Orlando for Kids

2. Orlando Museum of Art

• Address: 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Founded in 1924 by a group of art enthusiasts, the Orlando Museum of Art aims to inspire creativity, intellectual curiosity, and passion through its extensive exhibition of innovative art and ideas. 

Here you can appreciate rich and eclectic works such as Mesoamerican and African ceramics and textiles, modern graphics, mixed media pieces, and American sculptures. In addition to the permanent pieces, each year you will find different traveling exhibitions that will spark your inspiration. 

The Orlando Museum of Art is the perfect place to immerse yourself in a creative world, learn, and have fun. 

3. Mennello Museum of American Art

• Address: 900 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803

Considered one of the jewels of Loch Haven Park, the Mennello Museum of American Art is one of a kind and a great space for everyone, regardless of age.

The Mennello was established in November 1998 to conserve, interpret and exhibit Earl Cunningham’s permanent collection of paintings. Formerly a private home, this museum also offers special exhibitions, programs, and publications by contemporary American artists. In its various gallery spaces and intimate rooms, you can see varied exhibitions of American art from all genres and periods, including original and traveling exhibitions. Outside you’ll find another of its highlights: a lakeside sculpture garden that is sure to delight.

4. Orange County Regional History Center 

• Address: 65 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801

This private non-profit museum features four floors full of rich history in the historic Orange County Courthouse.

The Orange County Regional History Center is housed in a restored historic 1927 courthouse. It displays the Central Florida Historical Society’s collection, the Joseph L. Brecher Research Library, Heritage Square Park, and the Emporium Gift Shop for souvenir lovers.

The museum’s mission is to serve as a space for preservation, community engagement, and inspiration for all who visit.

5. Orlando Fire Museum

• Address: 814 E Rollins St, Orlando, FL 32803

The Orlando Firefighters Museum strives to engage both children and adults with history. This restored 1926 firehouse is an attraction where you can find out all about the history of the city’s brave firefighters and see antique equipment, including several fascinating fire trucks. 

Also located in Loch Haven Cultural Park, this museum, formerly Station 3, reopened in 2002. 

Admission to this museum is free, and it’s only open on Fridays and Saturdays. 

6. Art & History Museums of Maitland

• Address: 231 W Packwood Ave, Maitland, FL 32751

Managed by the Maitland Historical Society, this museum located in Orange County, Florida, is a national historic landmark that promises a fun time.

The Art and History Museum of Maitland preserves the past, engages the public, and nurtures artists throughout their careers. The five-acre property houses four museums scattered throughout the site where visitors can appreciate original art and historic antiques, learn from some of Central Florida’s finest instructors and even see local artists as they work.

This sanctuary for exploration, imagination, and curiosity is a must-see in Orlando.

7. Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens

• Address: 633 Osceola Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens will delight any art lover and outdoor enthusiast with more than 200 works by the acclaimed Czech-born sculptor. 

Albin Polasek’s home, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located in the heart of the beautiful Winter Park on Lake Osceola. The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens showcases galleries and sculpture gardens in addition to his home. 

By taking a tour here, you’ll travel back in time to discover what the life and times of this remarkable artist were like along with changing exhibits that celebrate “art that tells a story.” A visit to the Albin Polasek Museum is cultural and inspirational enrichment. 

8. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art 

• Address: 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum is undoubtedly one of Orlando’s hidden gems. This fantastic museum houses an extensive collection of works by the outstanding artist Louis Comfort Tifanny and different rooms, each with different and unique treasures to discover. 

This museum, located in the beautiful Winter Park neighborhood, offers affordable admission prices, discounts for seniors and students, and free admission for children under 12. If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Orlando, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is undoubtedly worth visiting. 

9. Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum 

• Address: 656 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Casa Feliz, Spanish for “Happy House,” is a restored 1930s Spanish country house designed by noted architect James Gamble Rogers III. 

In 2000, Casa Feliz was in danger of being demolished, but thanks to the raising of $1.7 million, the 750-ton house was moved across the street without damage. Today, this Andalusian-style farmhouse is a popular wedding and social venue that charms all who visit with its beautiful architecture.

Bottom Line

As you just read, these nine museums are beautiful places to do something new and entertaining. Each one has its own distinctive character, but they are all great places to visit if you travel to Orlando, and you will surely enjoy them no matter which one or the ones you go to!