Every year, the lively city of Orlando, Florida, actively welcomes millions of visitors with its world-class attractions and diverse activities. The city’s tourism board actively promotes its theme parks, museums, and outdoor recreation, all of which actively captivate and engage people from all corners of the globe. Orlando Family-Friendly Parks are famous.
We will explore the city’s most popular attractions with an emphasis on 13 Orlando family attractions and parks. Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs (while not a traditional park, it is a family-friendly entertainment complex), SeaWorld Orlando, Legoland Florida Resort, Volcano Bay, Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, Aquatica.
What can you see there, and how much money do you need?
Universal Studios Florida
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- Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
- Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 9 AM
- Phone: +1 407-363-8000
A paradise for TV and movie enthusiasts, Universal Studios Florida brings your favorite shows and movies to life with thrilling rides, engaging shows, and diverse dining options.
Highlights include stunt shows, character parades, and themed restaurants.
Tickets start at $109 per adult per day.
Positive Aspects
- Wide Range of Activities: The park offers a variety of activities and attractions, making it feel like a small city. Visitors appreciate the abundance of experiences available for a fun-filled day.
- Impressive Theming: The Harry Potter section and other themed areas receive high praise for their immersive and detailed design, providing a magical experience for fans.
- Family-Friendly: The park caters to visitors of all ages, making it a suitable destination for families. Specific attractions for kids and thrill rides for adults are appreciated.
- VIP and Express Pass Benefits: The VIP tour and express passes are highly recommended for skipping lines and maximizing the visit. These options enhance the overall experience by saving time.
- Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: Positive interactions with staff members, especially VIP guides, contribute to a memorable visit.
- Less Crowded than Disney: Some visitors prefer Universal Studios over Disney due to shorter wait times and less crowded conditions.
- Good Ride Variety: The park offers a mix of thrill rides and attractions, with many visitors highlighting their favorite rides such as Transformers, Harry Potter rides, and the Mummy.
Negative Aspects
- High Prices: The cost of tickets, food, and merchandise is a common complaint. Many find the prices steep, making it an expensive outing.
- Ride Accessibility Issues: Some guests experience difficulties fitting into certain rides, particularly in the Harry Potter section, which detracts from their enjoyment.
- Long Wait Times for Popular Rides: Despite the availability of express passes, long wait times for popular attractions can still be an issue for some visitors.
- Food Quality and Service: The food within the park is often described as expensive and average in quality. Delays and incorrect orders also negatively impact the dining experience.
- Crowded Conditions in Popular Areas: Certain areas, especially the Harry Potter section, can get very crowded, leading to congestion and longer wait times.
- Simulation Rides Causing Nausea: Some visitors find the simulation rides uncomfortable, causing motion sickness.
- Parking and Traffic Challenges: Getting into the park can be time-consuming due to traffic and parking issues, which can be frustrating for visitors.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure
- Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
- Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 9 AM
- Phone: +1 407-363-8000
From the magical world of Harry Potter to the adventurous Jurassic Park River Adventure, Islands of Adventure offers a mix of excitement and enchantment. One of the greatest Orlando family attractions.
The park features numerous water rides to cool off during the hot summer months.
For 2024, a new nighttime show, Hogwarts Always, will feature pyrotechnics and stunning projections against the backdrop of Hogwarts Castle. Tickets also start at $109 per adult per day.
Positive Aspects
- Immersive Themed Sections: Many reviews highlight the detailed and immersive nature of the themed sections, making visitors feel like they are transported to different worlds.
- Top-Notch Attractions: Reviewers frequently commend the quality of the rides and attractions, mentioning specific favorites like the Hulk roller coaster, Harry Potter’s Wizarding World, and King Kong.
- Overall Experience: The park is praised for providing a great experience for visitors of all ages, from thrilling rides to encounters with characters throughout the day.
- Friendly Staff: Positive interactions with friendly and helpful staff members enhance the visitor experience.
- Short Wait Times: Several reviews note that wait times for rides were manageable, especially with the use of express passes.
- Good Food Quality: While the food is noted to be expensive, its quality is generally regarded as good.
- Unique Attractions: Specific rides and themed areas, particularly Harry Potter and Marvel Super Hero Island, are highlighted as standout experiences.
Negative Aspects
- High Prices: A recurring complaint is the high cost of tickets, food, and merchandise within the park, which can make the experience less accessible for average families.
- Long Wait Times: Despite some noting short waits, others report long wait times for popular rides and new attractions, especially without express passes.
- Customer Service Issues: Some reviews mention unhelpful or indifferent staff, which detracts from the overall experience.
- Crowded Conditions: The park can get very crowded, leading to congestion and longer waits, particularly in popular areas like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Food Service Delays: Delays in food service and incorrect orders have been reported, which can be frustrating for visitors.
- Expense of Express Passes: The additional cost of express passes is seen as a necessity to avoid long waits, adding to the overall expense of the visit.
- Wet Rides: Some visitors were surprised by how wet they got on water attractions, which might be an inconvenience for those unprepared.
Universal CityWalk: A lively entertainment complex adjacent to Universal’s theme parks, CityWalk is perfect for dining, shopping, and enjoying live entertainment. With no entry fee, it’s a great place to unwind after a day at the Orlando Family-Friendly Parks.
Walt Disney World Resort
- Address: Florida, United States
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Phone: +1 407-939-5277
- Magic Kingdom
Ideal for families with young children, Magic Kingdom features iconic attractions like Space Mountain and the Haunted Mansion, along with character parades and family-friendly dining options. New for 2024 are Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a mystical log flume ride, and the Tron Lightcycle / Run coaster. Ticket prices start at $109 per adult per day.
- Hollywood Studios
This park immerses visitors in the world of movies with attractions based on Star Wars, Toy Story, and more. Themed dining and rides enhance the cinematic experience. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, opening in the fall of 2024, will feature a full-stage musical. Tickets start at $109 per adult per day.
- Epcot
Suitable for older kids and adults, Epcot allows visitors to explore global cultures and futuristic technology. Highlights include the World Showcase, which features pavilions from 11 countries, and exciting attractions like Soarin’ Around the World. The new nighttime show, Luminous: The Symphony of Us, and the CommuniCore Hall entertainment hub are notable additions for 2024. Tickets start at $109 per adult per day.
- Animal Kingdom
Combining wildlife encounters with thrilling rides, Animal Kingdom offers safaris, nature trails, and the immersive Pandora – The World of Avatar. It’s a celebration of nature and adventure. Notable attractions include the Expedition Everest coaster and Kilimanjaro Safaris. Tickets start at $109 per adult per day.
- Disney Springs
A shopping and entertainment district offering diverse dining, live music, and unique attractions like the helium balloon ride and amphicar tours. Entry is free, but individual attractions and dining have varying costs.
Walt Disney World Resort is often praised for its magical atmosphere and attention to detail, offering a variety of attractions and activities for everyone. Visitors highlight the friendly staff, unforgettable fireworks, and well-maintained facilities. The resort is ideal for families, with activities for all ages and special accommodations for children and those with special needs.
However, the high cost of tickets, food, and amenities is a common complaint. Some visitors experience long wait times for popular attractions, despite reservations. Weather can cause some attractions to close, and the park can get very crowded, especially during peak times. Extensive planning is necessary, which can be stressful. The Genie+ service receives mixed reviews, with some finding it helpful and others not worth the additional cost.
Overall, this is one of the great Orlando family attractions for visitors who find the resort beautiful and fun, with memorable experiences such as fireworks, parades, and character meet-and-greets. While expensive, many believe the magical experience and cherished memories make it worth the visit.
SeaWorld Orlando
- Address: 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, United States
- Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 9 AM
- Phone: +1 407-545-5550
SeaWorld Orlando combines thrilling rides with up-close animal encounters, making it a favorite for many visitors. Guests can enjoy impressive presentations featuring orcas, dolphins, and sea lions, as well as interactive exhibits and dining experiences. Notable attractions include the 360-degree Manta Aquarium and the underwater viewing tunnel. New for 2024 is Penguin Trek, a family-friendly roller coaster through penguin habitats. Tickets start at $99 per adult per day.
The park receives praise for its variety of attractions and memorable experiences. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, easy navigation, and friendly, helpful staff. The thrilling shows and educational exhibits are often highlighted as key aspects of the enjoyable and informative visit.
However, the high cost of tickets, food, and amenities is a common complaint. Some visitors experience long wait times for popular rides, and weather can impact outdoor activities due to limited shaded areas and rain.
Some visitors enjoyed a birthday visit despite concerns about costs and the heat, dining at Sharks Underwater Grill, which made the day special. Another praised the park’s enduring appeal and recommended using the app to purchase tickets in advance. The dolphin and orca shows, along with the park’s roller coasters, were highly praised despite hot weather and limited shade.
Visitors on weekdays noted short wait times and helpful staff, especially enjoying the Sesame Street section for young children. Reasonable prices and good food selection were also mentioned. Despite some negative online reviews, another guest found SeaWorld worth the money for its relaxed and thrilling shows.
Overall, SeaWorld Orlando offers fun and memorable experiences with a variety of attractions, although costs and potential weather-related inconveniences are noted drawbacks.
Legoland Florida Resort
- Address: 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, United States
- Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 10 AM
- Parent organization: Merlin Entertainments
- Phone: +1 888-690-5346
Legoland Florida Resort (stylized as LEGOLAND Florida Resort) is a vacation destination in Winter Haven, Florida, featuring the Legoland Florida theme park, Legoland Water Park, three on-site accommodations, and a separately ticketed on-site park based on the British children’s animated series Peppa Pig, which opened on February 24, 2022.
Built on the site of the former Cypress Gardens theme park, Legoland preserved the botanical gardens and re-themed the water park and select attractions to reflect various Lego brands.
Legoland caters to thrill-seekers and families alike with its theme park and water park. Attractions include interactive adventures, roller coasters, and the Cypress Botanical Gardens.
The water park offers a lazy river, a wave pool, and splash areas for younger children. Exciting additions for 2024 include the Lego Ferrari Build & Race and the upcoming Sea Life Florida aquarium. Combined tickets for the theme park and water park start at $84.99 per adult per day.
Orlando Water Parks
- Volcano Bay
Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 9 AM
Phone: +1 407-363-8000
Area: 27 acres (11 ha)
Theme: Polynesia
They have little shops that you can get all your water needs from sunscreen, water shoes, waterproof containers, towels and spf shirts. There are lots of places to eat. Snacks are available all over.
The pool in front of the volcano is nice but does have waves from time to time. There are two rivers one lazy and the other is a river rapid which gets a little crazy but still fun.
Universal’s Volcano Bay offers exhilarating water slides, a relaxing river, and a wave pool. It’s a perfect blend of water park and theme park experiences. A unique feature is the park’s virtual lines with TapuTapu devices. Tickets start at $80 per adult per day.
- Typhoon Lagoon
Typhoon Lagoon is a water theme park located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida near Orlando, and is one of two operating water parks at the resort. It is the second water park to open at the resort. Typhoon Lagoon features North America’s largest wave pool, water playgrounds for kids, and various water slides.
Dining options include healthy meals and specialty drinks. The H2O Glow After Hours event returns in summer 2024. Tickets start at $69 per adult per day.
- Blizzard Beach
Blizzard Beach has seven water slide rides, one chairlift ride, one kiddie play area, one pre-teen play area, a lazy river, and a wave pool. The seven slides are broken up into three areas—Green Slopes (3 slides), Purple Slopes (3 slides), and Red Slopes (1 attraction with 3 slides).
This water park offers thrilling toboggan rides, aquatic activities for kids, and a lazy river for relaxation. Dining options are plentiful, making it an all-day adventure. Tickets start at $69 per adult per day.
What to wear to Blizzard Beach?
Proper dress is required at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park. Swim attire with rivets, buckles or exposed metal is not permitted on the water attractions. Wetsuits are not permitted on body slides. One-piece swimsuits are recommended on the more thrilling waterslides, like the Summit Plummet attraction.
– Departments: Walhalla Wave
– Address: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL 32821, United States
– Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 9 AM
– Phone: +1 407-545-5550
SeaWorld’s water park includes sandy beaches, play areas, and underwater dolphin views. Slides like the Riptide Race add excitement, while the lazy river offers a peaceful retreat. Tickets start at $64.99 per adult per day.
- Discovery Cove
Unique for its interactive experiences, Discovery Cove allows guests to swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish, and feed exotic birds.
Reservations are essential due to limited daily attendance. Tickets, which include food and drinks, start at $199 per person.
Indoor Activities in Orlando
- ICON Park: Located on International Drive, ICON Park features The Wheel, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and a variety of dining and shopping options. It’s perfect for rainy days. Tickets for The Wheel start at $28.99 per adult.
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: This museum offers a collection of oddities, interactive exhibits, and a dance party with lifelike wax figures. It’s a fun and quirky indoor attraction. Tickets start at $28.99 per adult.
- The Escape Game: With themed escape rooms, The Escape Game provides an immersive adventure for families. Themes include Mars, the Gold Rush, and Prison Break, challenging participants to solve puzzles within 60 minutes. Tickets start at $39.99 per person.
- Chocolate Kingdom: This factory tour takes visitors through the journey of chocolate-making, from cacao beans to finished bars. Interactive experiences and the option to create custom chocolate bars make it a sweet adventure. Tickets start at $19.95 per adult.
- Topgolf: Perfect for all skill levels, Topgolf offers climate-controlled hitting bays, a sports bar, and a restaurant. It’s a great spot for golfing fun, regardless of the weather. Bay rental prices vary, starting around $25 per hour.
- WonderWorks: An upside-down building with over 100 hands-on exhibits, WonderWorks offers zones dedicated to extreme weather, physical challenges, space discovery, and more. Additional attractions include a ropes course, laser tag, and a 4D theater. Tickets start at $35 per adult.
- Dezerland Park: Florida’s largest indoor attraction features go-karting, bowling, axe-throwing, trampoline parks, and an auto museum. It’s a day-long destination for fun and excitement. Prices vary by activity, with all-day passes starting at $45.
- Crayola Experience: Geared toward young children, this attraction offers interactive and creative activities, including creating custom crayons and exploring art and technology exhibits. Tickets start at $24.99 per person.
- iFly Indoor Skydiving: Experience the thrill of skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel. Suitable for all ages, iFly also offers STEM educational experiences. Tickets start at $69.95 per person.
Additional Attractions
- Gatorland: Known for its alligator and crocodile exhibits, Gatorland offers unique shows, a petting zoo, and the Gator Zip Line. The new Croc Rock attraction includes a wall climb, chain bridge, and zip line. Tickets start at $32.99 per adult.
- Kennedy Space Center: East of Orlando, this center provides a comprehensive look at space exploration, with attractions including rocket launches, astronaut encounters, and mission zones. Tickets start at $75 per adult.
- Dinosaur World: This park features life-sized dinosaur models, interactive exhibits, and a fossil dig, offering a prehistoric adventure. Tickets start at $19.95 per adult.
- Old Town Kissimmee: A recreation of a classic town with shops, restaurants, rides, and weekly events like car shows. It’s a step back in time with modern entertainment. Entry is free, but individual attractions and dining have varying costs.
Sporting Events in Orlando
- Florida Cup: An international soccer tournament held at Camping World Stadium, featuring teams from around the world and associated fan events. Ticket prices vary by event.
- Orlando City Soccer: Catch professional soccer games at Exploria Stadium, home to Orlando City SC. Tickets start at $25 per match.
- Orlando Magic Basketball: Experience live NBA games with thrilling halftime shows and diverse dining options at the Amway Center. Tickets start at $15 per game.
- Orlando Solar Bears Hockey: Enjoy fast-paced hockey games at the Amway Center, a great alternative to outdoor sports. Tickets start at $18 per game.
Relaxing Activities
Orlando also offers a range of relaxing activities, including visits to Bok Tower Gardens, Harry P. Leu Gardens, Lake Eola Park, and the Central Florida Zoo. Nearby historical New Smyrna Beach provides opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and fishing. Prices for these activities vary, with some offering free entry.
Orlando’s diverse attractions ensure that there is something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for family vacations, new residents, and locals alike. Whether you seek adventure, education, or relaxation, Orlando delivers unforgettable experiences.
Summary
Orlando family attractions offer a plethora of activities suitable for families. From the exhilarating rides at Universal Studios and Disney World to the educational experiences at SeaWorld and the Kennedy Space Center, there is something for everyone.
Orlando Family-Friendly Parks like Water park Volcano Bay and Typhoon Lagoon provide refreshing fun, while indoor attractions such as ICON Park and WonderWorks offer entertainment for rainy days. With diverse options ranging from thrilling adventures to relaxing gardens, Orlando ensures an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.