Family Things To Do Orlando

Top 5 Family Things To Do In Orlando

Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, attracts millions of tourists every year. With its world-renowned attractions and endless entertainment options, it’s no wonder that it’s a top destination for families. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top five things that families can do in Orlando, Florida.

1. Walt Disney World

The crown jewel of Orlando’s theme parks, Walt Disney World is the ultimate destination for families. Spanning over 25,000 acres, it is the largest theme park in the world and consists of four separate parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom, with its iconic Cinderella Castle, is the most popular of the four parks and is home to classic attractions like It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean. Epcot features futuristic attractions like Spaceship Earth and The Land, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios is all about the movies, with Disney’s Hollywood Tower of Terror and the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith. Finally, Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers immersive animal encounters and exciting rides like Expedition Everest.

Beyond the parks, Walt Disney World also offers a variety of amenities and services specifically for families. This includes character meet and greets, stroller rentals, and even on-site babysitting. With so much to see and do, a trip to Walt Disney World is essential for any family visiting Orlando.

2. Universal Orlando Resort

Located just a few miles from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort is another unforgettable destination for families. The resort is comprised of two separate parks: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

At Universal Studios Florida, families can immerse themselves in the world of movies and television with attractions like Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and The Simpsons Ride. Islands of Adventure, on the other hand, is where families can experience thrilling rides like the Incredible Hulk Coaster and the Jurassic Park River Adventure.

The resort also features an entertainment complex called CityWalk, which offers dining options, shopping, and a variety of nightlife experiences. And with on-site hotels like the Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the Hard Rock Hotel, families can make the most out of their time in Orlando by staying close to the action.

3. SeaWorld

SeaWorld is a top family-friendly attraction in Orlando that combines both thrill and education. Home to a diverse range of marine life, the park offers thrilling rides like the Kraken and Mako roller coasters, as well as immersive animal encounters with dolphins, sea lions, and orcas.

But what sets SeaWorld apart from other theme parks is its focus on education and conservation. Families can learn about the importance of marine conservation through interactive exhibits like the Ocean Discovery Center and the Manatee Rehabilitation Area.

Overall, SeaWorld is a great destination for families who want to experience both excitement and education during their visit to Orlando.

4. LEGOLAND Florida Resort

For families with younger children, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is the perfect destination. Over 150 million LEGO bricks were used to create this interactive theme park, which offers a variety of attractions and activities for kids.

Some of the most popular attractions at LEGOLAND include the Dragon Coaster, where families can ride through a medieval castle, and Miniland USA, which features famous landmarks from around the country made entirely out of LEGO bricks.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. LEGOLAND also has its own on-site water park, where families can cool off on the lazy river or slide down the Twin Chasers water slides. And with a variety of LEGO-themed hotels to choose from, families can enjoy a truly immersive experience during their stay at LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

5. Gatorland

For families looking for something a little different, Gatorland offers a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Dubbed the “Alligator Capital of the World”, this 110-acre park is home to thousands of alligators, crocodiles, and other exotic animals.

At Gatorland, families can get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures through various exhibits and shows. This includes the Gator Jumparoo Show, where alligators jump up to grab food, and the Up-Close Encounters show, where guests can hold a live alligator or snake.

But Gatorland isn’t just about alligators. The park also has a variety of other attractions, such as the Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure and the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line. And with daily wildlife shows and interactive exhibits, Gatorland offers a unique and unforgettable experience for families.

Conclusion

Orlando has no shortage of family-friendly activities and attractions, so it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. But between Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, and Gatorland, families are sure to find something that suits their interests. From thrilling rides to up-close animal encounters, a trip to Orlando is sure to provide memorable experiences that families will treasure for a lifetime.

Frequently Requested Questions About Family Things To Do Orlando

What are the best theme parks for families in Orlando?

There are plenty of theme parks in Orlando that cater to families. Here are some of the best ones:

Walt Disney World Resort – Featuring over 4 theme parks, Disney World offers a magical experience for both children and adults.
Universal Orlando Resort – Home to two theme parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, Universal provides thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows.
SeaWorld Orlando – Focusing on marine animal experiences, SeaWorld offers rides, animal shows, and exhibits that are both fun and educational.

What are some family-friendly outdoor activities in Orlando?

The sunny weather in Orlando makes it perfect for outdoor activities. Here are some family-friendly options:

Visit the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens – This 116-acre park features over 400 animals and a beautiful garden filled with colorful flowers and plants.
Go kayaking or canoeing at Wekiwa Springs State Park – You can rent a kayak or canoe and paddle down the crystal-clear springs, and even spot some wildlife along the way.
Explore the nature trails at Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve – This preserve offers several hiking trails that are perfect for families who want to explore the natural habitats of Central Florida.

What are some indoor activities for families in Orlando?

If you’re looking for indoor activities to escape the heat, here are some great options:

Visit the Orlando Science Center – This center has interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that are both fun and educational for kids and adults.
Check out the Otronicon event at the Orlando Science Center – This annual event showcases the latest in technology, including video games, robotics, and virtual reality experiences.
Head to the Mall at Millenia – This upscale mall features over 150 stores and high-end boutiques, as well as a range of dining options to suit any taste.

What are some free things to do in Orlando with the family?

If you’re on a budget, don’t worry – there are plenty of free things to do in Orlando. Here are some examples:

Explore Lake Eola Park – This park includes a beautiful lake with a walking trail and an outdoor amphitheater for events.
Watch the nightly fireworks show at Disney Springs – This free show takes place over the lake and features music, lights, and pyrotechnics.
Visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens – This 50-acre botanical garden offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of downtown Orlando.

What are some family-friendly restaurants in Orlando?

Orlando has plenty of family-friendly dining options to choose from. Here are some of the best ones:

Rainforest Cafe – This themed restaurant is located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and features animatronic animals and a rainforest setting.
Earl of Sandwich – Located in Downtown Disney, this sandwich shop offers a variety of tasty sandwiches that are perfect for families on the go.
Hard Rock Cafe – This restaurant, located in Universal CityWalk, offers a rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere and American-style cuisine that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Popular Myths About Family Things To Do Orlando

Misconception #1: Family Things To Do In Orlando are Only for Kids

One of the common misconceptions about Family Things To Do in Orlando is that they are designed only for kids. However, this is far from the truth.

Orlando is a city that caters to everyone, including adults, teens, and even seniors. You can engage in a variety of activities that are perfect for the entire family. From theme parks to water parks, zoos, museums, art galleries and more, there is something for everyone in Orlando.

So, if you are planning a family vacation to Orlando, keep in mind that you and your family can indulge in activities that are tailored for the young and the old.

Misconception #2: You can Complete Everything in Orlando in Just One Day

Another common misconception about Orlando is that you can complete everything on your itinerary in just one day. However, this is not true.

There are so many activities to indulge in and places to explore in Orlando that it is impossible to cover everything in just one day. To make the most of your trip, it is recommended that you set aside a couple of days to explore the city and its attractions.

Whether you are visiting the theme parks, exploring the museums or going on a shopping spree, there is a lot to do in Orlando, so make sure you give yourself enough time to explore it all.

Misconception #3: Theme Parks are the Only Thing to do in Orlando

While Orlando is most famous for its theme parks, they are not the only activities available. Orlando is a city that is filled with different types of activities that cater to everyone’s interests.

If you are not a fan of theme parks, you can take your family to adventure parks, golf courses, water parks, museums, art galleries and more. The city is home to a variety of activities and experiences that are perfect for families.

So, if you are looking for something beyond the theme parks, make sure you explore all that Orlando has to offer.

Misconception #4: Attractions in Orlando are Overpriced

One of the common misconceptions about Orlando is that its attractions are overpriced. However, this is not true.

While some of the theme parks and activities may seem expensive, they are worth it considering the entertainment and experiences they offer. Plus, many of the attractions offer discounts and coupons, making them affordable for every budget.

Moreover, by planning your itinerary in advance, you can maximize your time and save money. So, if you are planning a trip to Orlando, don’t let price discourage you from experiencing its attractions.

Misconception #5: Beaches are Far from Orlando

Many people believe that Orlando is far from the beach, which is not the case.

The Atlantic and Gulf coasts are both within a couple hours’ drive from Orlando. If you want to take a break from the theme parks and see some of the beautiful beaches, you can make a day trip to Clearwater, Daytona Beach or Cocoa Beach.

You can indulge in different beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, and more. Plus, some beaches offer beachfront bars and restaurants, making them perfect for a day-long excursion.

In conclusion, Orlando is a city that is filled with a wide range of family activities that cater to every age group. From theme parks to museums and beaches, there is something for everyone to do when visiting Orlando. So if you are planning a family vacation to the city, plan ahead of time, and explore different attractions to make your trip a memorable one.