The 6 Best Walking Tours in Orlando
Exploring Orlando on foot reveals hidden stories, flavors, and sights that your usual theme park visit might overlook. While Orlando is famous for its world-class amusement parks, its historic streets, haunted buildings, and culinary scenes offer a different kind of charm. Walking tours let you soak in authentic local flavors, uncover spooky tales, and connect with the city’s less obvious side—all at a pace that lets you truly take it in.
Whether you want to hunt for spirits in the dark, meet beautiful horses, or sample Orlando’s best bites, there’s a walking tour fit for your interests. We’ve rounded up the top options, each with its own unique twist—some spooky, some savory, and others deeply personal. Read on to find out which tour matches your style and schedule.
1. 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando
This ghost tour in downtown Orlando offers a spooky yet fun alternative to visiting crowded theme parks. For about $77.77 per person, you’ll walk through historic streets with a guide sharing secret stories of paranormal activity that are rarely found in guidebooks. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to try professional ghost hunting equipment, such as EMF meters and spirit boxes, as you visit haunted buildings—some of which you’ll go inside.
The tour lasts around 2 hours and covers legendary spots like Church Street Station, where urban legends come alive with tales of ghost sightings and mysterious happenings. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge make the stories immersive, and the experience is enhanced by photos and a parting gift. Reviews emphasize the tour’s balance of local history and paranormal intrigue—”Very welcoming and friendly” and “Very interesting with ghost-related details,” are typical comments.
This tour is perfect if you enjoy history with a supernatural twist or want an interactive experience that’s more than just stories. It’s suitable for most ages, especially those curious about ghost hunting or haunted history.
Bottom Line: A fun, spooky, and interactive way to explore Orlando’s haunted past—perfect for ghost enthusiasts and curious skeptics alike.
2. Gypsy Gold Horse Farm Walking Tour
For a change of pace, the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm offers a gentle, educational experience focused on North America’s first Gypsy Vanner Horses. This tour costs just $30, lasts about an hour, and is rated perfect with 5.0/5 from 25 reviews. It’s a highlight for animal lovers and those interested in rare breeds.
Dennis and Cindy Thompson imported the first Gypsy Vanners into the US, and this tour takes you directly to their farm where you’ll learn about the breed’s history—created by British Gypsies to pull their wagons—and see over 30 horses, foals, and donkeys. The guide’s knowledge brings the breed’s story alive, and visitors love being able to pet the horses and donkeys, like Patience the donkey, who often makes an appearance. The tour is praised for the personalized touch and engaging storytelling.
This experience is best suited for families or anyone wanting a relaxing, hands-on encounter with beautiful horses and their history. The farm environment offers a peaceful break from city sightseeing.
Bottom Line: An affordable, engaging farm visit ideal for animal lovers or those wanting a tranquil outdoor experience with a fascinating breed.
3. 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando
If you’re looking for a more immersive ghost experience, this tour takes you inside haunted buildings with professional ghost-hunting gear. For around $50 per person, you’ll explore downtown Orlando with a paranormal investigator guide who has TV experience, making this tour perfect for those wanting to see behind the scenes of haunted sites.
Starting at 129 W Church St, the 2-hour tour includes inside visits to haunted venues, with opportunities to communicate with spirits using EMF meters and spirit boxes. You’ll also see scenic views of downtown and visit notable spots with ghost stories. The tour is highly customizable for families or groups, which makes it flexible for different comfort levels. Reviews highlight the inside access and professional equipment—”Very interesting with ghost-related details”—and many appreciate the behind-the-scenes aspect.
Ideal for paranormal enthusiasts and those intrigued by ghost investigations, this tour offers a unique chance to go beyond the usual sightseeing. Keep in mind the focus on spirits means walking into dark or potentially spooky interiors.
Bottom Line: A hands-on ghost hunt inside Orlando’s haunted buildings, offering a behind-the-scenes look for thrill-seekers and ghost hunters.
4. Flavors of ICON Park – Foodie Walking Tour
Food lovers should not miss the Flavors of ICON Park, where for about $39, you’ll sample a variety of Orlando’s best eats in a lively setting. This tour lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours and is capped at just 12 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
Led by a guide, you’ll explore ICON Park, a popular entertainment hub, with stops at top restaurants for tastings of local specialties and drinks. The guide shares commentary about the area’s transition from orange groves to a modern tourist magnet, making the walk informative as well as delicious. Guests praise the generous portions and enjoyable atmosphere, with the guide providing lively narration between bites.
This tour is perfect if you want to combine cultural insight and culinary delights, especially those who love trying new foods or want a relaxed, interactive experience. It’s also a great way to get a taste of Orlando’s vibrant food scene without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable, flavor-packed tour ideal for foodies wanting local bites and a relaxed pace.
5. Gastro Secrets of Winter Park – Foodie Walking Tour
For those eager to explore Winter Park’s culinary scene, this Gastro Secrets of Winter Park offers a taste of the hidden eateries and local favorites. At $72, the tour lasts about 2 hours and visits exclusive spots beyond the well-known Park Avenue shops.
This tour focuses on locally owned boutique restaurants that most visitors miss, showcasing the area’s gastro secrets. You’ll sample a selection of food and drinks while learning about Winter Park’s history. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see a different side of this charming town and enjoy some delicious surprises along the way.
Reviewers note the tour’s insider knowledge and delightful food—”You get to see the best secret spots most travelers never find.” It’s suited for those with a good appetite and curiosity about local food culture. The walking is moderate, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Bottom Line: A tasty, intimate look at Winter Park’s lesser-known eateries, perfect for exploring beyond the usual.
6. Orlando: Private Custom Walking Tour with A Guide
If you prefer a personalized experience, the private Custom Walking Tour is for you. With no fixed itinerary and a price of about $127 per person, this tour can last from 2 to 8 hours depending on your interests.
Your local guide will craft a tailored route based on your preferences, whether you want to see iconic landmarks, hidden spots, or explore neighborhoods, eateries, and shopping areas. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, insider perspective on Orlando’s diverse neighborhoods. The guide’s passion helps you navigate the city with confidence and discover spots that are often missed.
This tour is best suited for small groups or individuals who want a comprehensive, customized introduction to Orlando. It’s an excellent value for those wishing to maximize their time with a knowledgeable local.
Bottom Line: The most flexible and personal tour option, ideal for those who want to shape their Orlando experience with a local’s touch.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour
Picking the best walking tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If spooky stories and paranormal investigations fascinate you, start with the 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour, which offers an interactive night of ghost hunting. For animal lovers or families, the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm provides a peaceful, educational encounter with beautiful horses. Those wanting a hands-on ghost experience inside haunted buildings will appreciate the Investigative Ghost Tour.
If food is your focus, the Flavors of ICON Park and Gastro Secrets of Winter Park offer delicious tastings and local culinary insights. For a fully personalized exploration, the Private Custom Tour allows you to tailor your itinerary based on your specific interests.
Consider your budget, preferred pace, and whether you want inside access, food, or a private experience. Booking early, especially for specialized or private tours, ensures the best availability.
Final Thoughts
Orlando’s walking tours reveal facets of the city many visitors miss—spooky tales, rare breeds, tasty bites, and personalized adventures. For a thrilling ghost hunt, the Ghost Tour offers a memorable night of paranormal fun. Families and animal lovers will find the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm a peaceful highlight. If food is your thing, the ICON Park and Winter Park tours provide delicious insights into Orlando’s culinary scene.
No matter what appeals most, booking in advance guarantees you a spot in these popular experiences. Take your pick, lace up your shoes, and enjoy discovering Orlando beyond the theme parks.