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8 tips for the best orlando theme park experience.

No matter how often you’ve visited Orlando, these top tips for theme parks can help maximize your experience at Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

Updated April 7, 2021

Planning a trip to Orlando’s world-famous theme parks ? Lucky you! A day at the parks is always amazing, but as seasoned visitors know, a little planning and knowledge can make it even more so. Whether it’s your first visit or you want to refine your approach, here are eight sure-fire tips for having the best theme park adventure ever. Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in Orlando!

1. Buy Tickets in Advance

Buying tickets online before you arrive can be a big time-saver — and Visit Orlando can help you save money on those tickets! In addition to discounted passes to Walt Disney World® Resort , Universal Orlando Resort , SeaWorld® Orlando and LEGOLAND® Florida Resort , we have savings on attractions and experiences throughout the area.

Save on discount tickets: Orlando Theme Parks & Attractions

2. Spend Less Time in Line

Lines are unavoidable at theme parks, but there are ways to minimize those waits. At Walt Disney World Resort, purchasing passes in advance gives you access to FastPass+ (when available), which lets you reserve times for up to three rides and shows up to 30 days before you arrive at no additional cost. (Guests of Disney’s onsite resorts can make reservations 60 days out.) After you’ve used the first three FastPasses, you can use the free My Disney Experience app to set up more depending on availability.

Discover : Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Universal Orlando Resort’s Universal Express Pass program is available at an additional cost for up to three parks on the same day. Guests of select Universal Orlando onsite hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando , Hard Rock Hotel® at Universal Orlando and Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando , get the service for free.

Discover : Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

SeaWorld has a few different express upgrades at additional cost. Those under the Quick Queue program provide front-of-the-line access to select rides. Signature Show Seating, which gives reserved seating for popular events, is also available. Or, get the best of both worlds with the Signature Show Seating + Quick Queue Unlimited combo package.

Finally, LEGOLAND Florida Resort has two paid quick-ride upgrades. Fastrack Unlimited lets you skip lines on all rides all day, while the Fastrack 3-Pack eliminates the wait for three coasters.

3. Arrive Early

Sleeping in is always nice, but there are benefits to arriving at a theme park before it opens. For one thing, crowds are smaller during the first hour or so, which means you can knock out a couple of must-rides before lines get too long. And in summertime, morning hours are the coolest hours.

An early start can also help if you’re traveling with small children. Once midday crankiness creeps in, take a hotel intermission. After a quick bite, a relaxing dip in the pool and maybe a brief nap, head back to hit up more attractions before the evening’s fireworks display. That way, you’ll still get in a full day without it feeling like a forced march.

4. Choose Your Footwear Carefully

A day at the theme parks is about comfort, not fashion, so make sure everyone in your group wears comfortable, durable shoes. For example, walking the perimeter of Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World will put more than 2 miles on your pedometer alone, and that doesn’t come close to accounting for all the mileage you’ll accrue once ride queues, bathroom visits, general sightseeing and other considerations are factored in!

If you do wind up getting a bad case of blistered feet, all of our parks have first-aid stations where you can get Band-Aids and other ways to ease any discomfort. But prevention is the best medicine here.

5. They’re Going Left — So Go Right

It’s a time-honored maxim that most people move right upon entering a business ... but studies have shown the opposite effect when it comes to theme parks! If you take our third tip to heart and arrive early, you’ll usually encounter far fewer crowds, and enjoy correspondingly shorter ride times, by taking a clockwise route.

6. Come Prepared

You’re going to want to take a lot of photos and videos while you’re at the park, so arrive with your devices fully charged, and bring portable charging equipment if you can. (If you forget the latter, you can buy one at all of Orlando’s theme parks. Some also offer free battery charging at guest services; check with your park for details.)

If you’re visiting during the summer, there’s always a chance of afternoon rain — fortunately, it usually doesn’t last long. If you don’t feel like carrying umbrellas or ponchos, be prepared to find a covered spot to relax if the skies do open up.

7. Bring Your Own Snacks and Beverages

Bringing your own snacks and beverages to theme parks can be a money-saver. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and LEGOLAND Florida have fairly open policies regarding outside food and drink — provided said food does not require heating and said drink isn’t alcoholic in nature. SeaWorld is a bit more restrictive, but baby formula and food is permitted, as is food for guests with special diets.

8. Don’t Forget Where You Parked

Orlando’s theme parks attract hundreds of thousands of visitors daily, and their parking options are correspondingly massive. If you don’t want to spend time on a needle-in-a-haystack search, make sure to note where you parked, or use your cellphone or camera to take a photo of your location. To help you in that regard, our theme parks’ parking lots and garages use section names and numbering — but they can’t remember the details for you!

Stay Connected to Orlando You never know what we’ll dream up next. Connect with Visit Orlando’s Vacation Planning Services for free, personalized assistance, and follow us on Facebook , X , Instagram , TikTok , Pinterest , Threads and YouTube for valuable offers, exclusive tips, fresh attractions and the latest events. You can also subscribe to our eNewsletter for more information from Orlando: Theme Park Capital of the World.

Have feedback about this blog? Let us know .

Nate Shelton

Content senior manager at Visit Orlando. He’s a native Floridian and longtime Orlandoan who enjoys good food and drink, live entertainment, music, theme parks, comic books, video games, movies, cats, and all the other things that make life worth living.

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14 Top Orlando Theme Parks

Pack your bags and head to the Sunshine State for endless family fun.

Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Nothing says fun like an Orlando theme park.

Is your family begging for a theme park getaway? If so, look no further than a trip to Orlando, Florida. Choose from a variety of parks to suit all tastes, from the classic rides and characters at Walt Disney World Resort to the heart-pounding thrills of Universal Orlando Resort . And if the kids are animal lovers, they'll be especially happy at SeaWorld Orlando or Gatorland. Read on to start planning your next trip to the Sunshine State; fantastic weather and fun-filled family adventures at these top Orlando theme parks await.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Orlando With Kids .]

Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World Resort: Lake Buena Vista

Perhaps the best-known theme park in Orlando, Magic Kingdom Park opened its doors in 1971 as the first park at Walt Disney World Resort. Awakening the imaginations of kids and adults alike, the world-famous Magic Kingdom is home to many classic, nostalgic rides, like Pirates of the Caribbean, Peter Pan's Flight and Jungle Cruise. Rides are separated into six themed areas – including Adventureland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland – with Cinderella's Castle standing as the focal point in the center of the park. There are several family-friendly Disney lodging properties located close to Magic Kingdom, including Disney's Contemporary Resort , Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa .

[Read: The Top Disney Luggage .]

Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort: Lake Buena Vista

Known best for Spaceship Earth, its iconic white sphere, Epcot offers four different worlds for visitors to explore. In the World Discovery section of the park, get your blood pumping on two thrilling rides: Test Track and Mission: Space. At World Showcase, learn about countries all around the world, including Morocco, Italy, Norway and China, through films, exhibits, rides and restaurants. Popular rides in this area include Remy's Ratatouille Adventure in France and Frozen Ever After in Norway. When hunger strikes, stop for a bite at the romantic La Cantina de San Angel in Mexico. For easy access to Epcot, book a stay at Disney's Beach Club Resort , which is within walking distance to one of the park's back entrances. At this property, you can also hop on the Disney Skyliner gondola to reach Disney's Hollywood Studios, more Disney Parks or other area resorts.

Disney's Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Resort: Lake Buena Vista

"Star Wars" and "Toy Story" fans won't want to miss Disney's Hollywood Studios, where they'll find entire lands dedicated to their favorite characters. At Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, take a ride on the Millennium Falcon, make your own lightsaber or step into the story on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. In Toy Story Land, visitors can ride the Slinky Dog Dash coaster, try their hand at carnival games on Toy Story Mania! and meet characters like Woody and Buzz Lightyear. You'll also find a variety of live shows, including "A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration." Affordable Disney resorts close to Hollywood Studios include Disney's Pop Century Resort and Disney's Art of Animation Resort . At Art of Animation, larger families can opt for a three-bed family suite, which includes a dining table that doubles as a bed.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World Resort: Lake Buena Vista

Spanning more than 500 acres, Animal Kingdom Park is one of Walt Disney World Resort's largest theme parks. It houses around 2,000 animals and features a range of rides across six sections, including Africa, Asia, Pandora – The World of Avatar and DinoLand U.S.A. Favorite attractions include the Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain coaster, Avatar Flight of Passage and Kilimanjaro Safaris. Visitors to this Disney Park can continue their Animal Kingdom experience with a stay at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge . Guests can look just outside the lodge to see more than 30 species of African wildlife, as well as enjoy a large pool with a waterslide and meals at on-site restaurants like Jiko – The Cooking Place and Boma – Flavors of Africa.

Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park, Walt Disney World Resort: Lake Buena Vista

For some refreshing fun during Orlando's hotter days, head to Blizzard Beach, one of two Disney water parks. The theme park brings to life an imaginary Florida snowstorm centered around Mount Gushmore, which features a chairlift and the Summit Plummet waterslide. Other attractions include the Toboggan Racers, where you can race a friend or family member on a mat, and the Teamboat Springs group water raft ride. Blizzard Beach sits between Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and Disney's All Star Sports Resort – both convenient accommodations offering easy park-to-park access.

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Walt Disney World Resort: Lake Buena Vista

Disney's second water park option – Typhoon Lagoon – is easy to spot thanks to its iconic shrimp boat perched atop a mountain. Hang out in the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, the park's main attraction with a white sand beach, or take a spin on the Crush 'n' Gusher, a coaster-style raft ride that propels you forward with water jets. For an extra special experience, you can even take a surfing lesson. Typhoon Lagoon is located near Disney Springs, a shopping and dining district, and nearby resorts include Disney's Old Key West Resort and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa .

Universal Studios Florida, Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando

Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

Step into the spotlight at Universal Studios Florida, where you can experience attractions based on movies, TV shows and Hollywood icons. Perhaps the most popular section of the park is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, which lets fans of the popular book and film series experience the magical setting of Harry Potter. Parkgoers can ride the Hogwarts Express or hop on the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts thrill ride, and they can even select their own wand at Ollivanders Wand Shop. Beyond Harry Potter-themed attractions, travelers can enjoy the Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem simulator and The Simpsons Ride. Universal Studios Florida is also known for its Halloween Horror Nights event each fall, which features elaborate haunted houses and spooky characters. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando , an Italian-themed resort, makes for a luxe stay with easy access to the parks via boat.

Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando

Getty Images

Universal's Islands of Adventure park is the place to go for fantastical adventures across themed areas like Marvel Super Hero Island, Jurassic Park and Seuss Landing. At Seuss Landing, you can enter the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss and his many stories and characters. At The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, sip Butterbeer while waiting in line for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey inside Hogwarts Castle. Thrill rides inside the park range from Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure to the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, to Dr. Doom's Fearfall and the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride. When night falls, lay your head at Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort, a throwback to the 1950s and '60s featuring family suites with kitchenettes and separate sitting and sleeping areas.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 ]

Universal's Volcano Bay Water Theme Park, Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando

You can't miss the giant volcano at the center of Universal's Volcano Bay Water Theme Park. Attractions include aqua coasters, body slides, raft rides and a lazy river with rapids and waves. An especially unique feature is the park's virtual lines; parkgoers don TapuTapu devices on their wrists that virtually hold their place in line for rides and notify them when it's their turn. For a quick walk to the park, stay at Universal's Aventura Hotel, which has a path that goes straight to Volcano Bay. The property also features a rooftop bar, a food hall, an on-site Starbucks and a pool.

[Read: The Best Water Parks in the U.S. ]

Legoland Theme Park, Legoland Florida Resort: Winter Haven

Got Lego lovers in your family? Experience all things brick at Legoland Florida Resort, from The Lego Movie World to Land of Adventure. Check out Lego Ninjago The Ride and Coastersaurus for more of a thrill. Little ones will enjoy the kid-friendly Duplo Valley area, which features a colorful playhouse, train rides and a toddler splash zone. For added convenience, stay overnight at one of three Legoland Florida hotels. Choose from the Pirate Island Hotel with pirate-themed rooms and in-room treasure hunts; the Legoland Hotel or bungalows at the Legoland Beach Retreat.

Legoland Water Park, Legoland Florida Resort: Winter Haven

Courtesy of LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

When you want a break from the bricks, head for a refreshing dip at Legoland Water Park. Families will find waterslides, a wave pool and a lazy river. At Creative Cove, visitors can build their own boats and race them against others, and travelers can also test out their engineering skills by creating their own rafts to float down the lazy river. Nearby accommodations outside of the park include the Courtyard Winter Haven and the Holiday Inn Winter Haven.

SeaWorld Orlando: Orlando

An animal-themed park in Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando focuses on ocean animal rescue and rehabilitation. Get up close and personal with sea creatures at a variety of shows, including the Orca Encounter and the Sea Lion & Otter Spotlight. There are also multiple aquariums and opportunities to go behind the scenes in the park's rehab centers. You'll also find plenty of attractions to please visitors of all ages; rides for thrill-seekers include the Mako, Manta and Kraken coasters, as well as the Journey to Atlantis water ride. Younger kids can romp around Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld, which offers rides like Elmo's Choo Choo Train and Big Bird's Twirl 'n' Whirl. The nearby Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando Theme Parks offers a free hot breakfast daily, as well as a pool and suites fitted with kitchens and dining areas.

Gatorland: Orlando

For an off-the-beaten-path theme park trip, consider Gatorland . Located south of Orlando near Kissimmee, Gatorland offers kids the chance to see more than 2,000 American alligators, plus crocodiles, birds and other animals of all shapes and sizes. Spend the day riding a zip line over the reptiles, going on an off-road adventure complete with singing tour guides or attending a wildlife show. The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes and the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes are both situated less than 5 miles north of the park and make for a luxurious overnight stay.

Fun Spot America: Orlando

Located just off of the north end of Orlando's International Drive, Fun Spot America features classic theme park rides like the only wooden coaster in Orlando. At the park, you'll also find bumper cars and thrill rides like the SkyCoaster, the Hot Seat giant arm swing and Headrush 360 (which turns riders upside down to swing and spin). Take your pick of nearby hotels, including the Hilton Garden Inn Orlando International Drive North or the SureStay Plus by Best Western Orlando International Drive.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Family Spring Break Destinations
• Ways to Save on Your Orlando Vacation
• The Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida
• The Top Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Indoor Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Indoor Water Parks Across the U.S.
• Traveling with Toddlers: Tips to Make Your Vacation Go Smoothly
• The Top Travel Strollers

Tags: Travel , Theme Park Vacations , Disney Vacations , Vacation Ideas , Family Vacations , Florida Vacations , US Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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30 Top tips for visiting ORLANDO THEME PARKS

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: February 7, 2024

Heading to Orlando theme parks? We share these top tips for visiting Orlando theme parks so you can enjoy the parks without stress.

Top tips for visiting Orlando Theme Parks

Take a bottle of water and refill it at the various water fountains or ask the servers in restaurants. Most parks will refill water bottles free of charge and we love bringing a foldable water bottle like this ; you can collapse them whenever you are finished using them, so they take up much less space in your bag and you don’t have to worry about it getting crushed under all your souvenirs. 

Use the website and park apps to get used to the layout of the park, so you can head straight to the ride you are most excited about. With the introduction of Genie +, there are many new things to learn about the Disney parks especially, so make sure you watch vlogs of those based in Orlando and get planning your days in the park. We always recommend you choose your ‘must-do’ attractions and rides before you visit so that you know which queues to prioritise. 

• BEAT THE HEAT

If you are not too fussed about riding every single ride, head to the parks at around 3.30 pm, meaning you beat the hottest time and the park is starting to clear. Enjoying the parks in the evenings are great ways to beat the crowds and heat, especially if you are stuck to visiting during school holidays. 

Both Universal and Disney offer apps with ride waiting times, check these before you leave and whilst you are at the park so that you know which rides are quieter when deciding what to ride next. Make sure to keep refreshing the app too so that you have the most up-to-date times. 

• CHILD SWAP/RIDER SWITCH PASS

Travelling to the theme parks with small children? Many rides offer a ‘child swap’ option for young children to swap with their siblings; particularly helpful when you have only one adult or older sibling wanting to ride.

• FORGET THE PARADE

If you do love rides, then forget watching the parades and head straight to the best rides you want to try. Queues tend to be a lot quieter during parade times, particularly the evening parades.

• BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE

Avoid queues and save money by purchasing your tickets online and printing them before heading to the park. We save money and time by purchasing ticket packages at Undercover Tourist .

• LEAVE POTTER TO LAST

Whilst visiting Universal, both Harry Potter areas and rides get incredibly busy, incredibly early. Leave visiting these sections until later in the evening (when younger children are heading home) to avoid long queues. Also, there are lots of great Harry Potter souvenirs available at Universal Studios but skip the wand purchases whilst here, these are massively overpriced. Read this guide to visiting Harry Potter World on a budget if you plan on spending a lot of time at the Universal parks but don’t want to spend too much money. 

Although it is tempting, don’t overpack your bag! This will weigh you down and slow you down during your trip. Bring your phone, wallet, camera, raincoat and water bottle and that is all! If you are travelling as a couple or a group of friends, perhaps take turns in bringing a bag. 

• THE CORRECT FOOTWEAR

We have all done it; wore pretty new shoes on a day out and ended up with blistered, achy feet. Trainers are the best choice for trekking around these theme parks but I do love wearing a comfy pair of flip-flops in the hot months. You could also wear pumps or ballerina shoes, whatever you feel comfortable in, but just make sure to avoid brand-new shoes. This foot glide is a must too! Slip it into your bag and use it on achy, blistered feet when needed. The same company have this amazing body glide to prevent chafing too, so you can wear those dresses and skirts without anything aching after!

Food in parks can be so expensive but don’t forget you can bring your own food in with you. We like to bring in a few snacks and get the refillable cups.

Eating at an indoor restaurant can be a godsend during the hot summer months, so bring some extra money for this.

Alternatively, enjoy half days at the park and eat at restaurants outside of the parks before or after your time inside a theme park. This is especially useful at Universal when you can pop outside of the park and eat at City Walk.

If you are visiting Orlando on a budget, you could also choose to take time away from the park to enjoy one of the restaurants on International Drive then return to the parks in the evening.

In Orlando, it is so essential to bring sunscreen and keep applying it. It is easy to forget when you’re whizzing through the air at super speeds but don’t spoil the next few days of your holiday by forgetting to apply a bit whilst you’re queuing for the next ride.

• WEAR LAYERS

Orlando’s weather can change throughout the day, so bring layers to avoid the ‘waiting for the parade’ chill or to keep you covered in a thunderstorm. We love little raincoats that fold up into a tiny bag – we can throw them into our backpacks and wear them for wet rides or when it downpours.

• SINGLE RIDER

If you aren’t too fussed about sitting next to your friends or family, take the single rider queue, which can cut your wait time by half, if not more.

• BRING A CAMERA

Avoid paying for overcharged ride shots and bring your camera to capture your fun memories. You don’t need an expensive one either, just a decent phone camera or an affordable point-and-shoot camera would work. We love these travel cameras under $300.

• ARRIVE EARLY AND STAY LATE

I know I have said to arrive late if you are not too fussed about riding all the rides but if you are fussed and want a full day at the park then get there early. Parking lots fill up faster in the popular months and currently, you need to book ahead of time to secure your place in a park. 

Now, if you are staying on Disney property, we recommend taking a mid-afternoon break from the parks to cool off and avoid burnout. But make sure to head back into the parks as the sun sets, especially Magic Kingdom. I am not sure how much Walt Disney spends on fireworks but the shows should not be missed, even if you only catch them once on your trip!

Bring a Poncho to avoid the inevitable rainy afternoons. 

• BRING SPARE CLOTHES FOR WATER RIDES

The Island of Adventures includes lots of water rides that help you cool off in the summer. Unfortunately, because of the high humidity of the Orlando, clothes don’t always dry as well, so bring along some spare underwear to avoid walking around in wet clothes all day. This is also true for most theme parks if you want to enjoy their wetter rides. 

• START AT THE BACK

No matter which park you are heading to, walk to the back of the park when you first enter the theme park and work your way forward to avoid long queues and hectic walkways. This is especially true if you are visiting first thing in the morning. 

• ALTERNATE YOUR RIDES

This one we find much easier to do in Universal parks, but alternate your rides between outdoor and indoor air-conditioned rides to avoid getting too hot during the day. Also, try to time indoor meals or indoor rides during the middle of the day, when the sun and temperature are at their highest. 

• SIT NEAR AN EXIT

When watching a show, try and get seats near an exit to allow for a fast escape at the end.

• CHARGE YOUR PHONE

Not just for pictures but for those moments you suddenly lose your party, make sure your phone is fully charged. We always like to carry a lightweight battery pack on busy and long days out but you can also find recharging stations around most theme parks these days. 

• SOUVENIR SHOPPING

Buy your souvenirs at the end of your day, there is nothing worse than carrying around a half-deflated balloon and a collection of Simpson merchandise around the theme park all day. At Disney, if you choose to buy souvenirs during the day, you can collect the items at the exit as you leave the park or even get them sent to your hotel if you are staying at a Disney Resort.

• BOOK FOOD RESERVATIONS IN ADVANCE

If you are a large family or want to eat in a popular sit-down restaurant for dinner, you need to book a table prior to your visit. This is especially true at the moment, with many places running at a reduced capacity. Remember, you can always opt for a meal at one of the Disney resorts if you want the Disney experience but restaurants in the park are fully booked. 

Choose a hotel near the theme parks that offer a shuttle bus to avoid high taxi charges. You can rent and drive yourself, which we found the most convenient method of transport but be warned that parking in any of the theme parks is expensive, costing upwards of $25 per day. Disney resorts offer free transport to Disney parks, Universal resorts are within walking distance to the Universal parks and there are many hotel chains that offer free shuttle buses (especially on international drive ). 

• HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS

If you are travelling with younger children, check the height restriction before visiting so you can purposefully avoid certain rides and therefore avoid child disappointment. 

Take advantage of the theme park apps. Not only do they have wait times as we mentioned before, but you can use apps to reserve restaurants too. Disney’s Genie app can be used to help you cut down on wait times at certain rides whilst the Disney Genie Plus app is a paid-for service which allows faster access to most rides. 

• USE THE CROWD CALENDAR

Undercover Tourist has a brilliant Crowd Calendar that gives you a rough idea of the park’s busiest days and weeks. Check it out before you plan any trip and avoid the Christmas period if possible.

• SPECIAL EVENTS

Throughout the year, the parks hold special events; whether it is a Christmas event, Halloween event or Disney’s popular Food and Wine Festival. For after-hour events, make sure to book tickets in advance, arrive early and stay late to make the most out of your time and money. Don’t overspend on food at these events (be picky about what you try) and avoid the first or last night of an event; these are always the busiest. 

• PHOTOGRAPH THE PARKING LOT

So, theme park parking lots are massive! Take a photo of the area and lot you have parked in so you can find your car at the end of the day. 

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

April 4, 2024

29 Incredible Universal Orlando Tips [Save Money & Time]

We just returned from a jam-packed whirlwind trip to Universal Orlando and it was absolutely incredible!!! One of the reasons the trip went so smoothly is because we have visited Orlando more times than I can count and over the years we have collected a lot of Unversal Orlando tips & tricks to help us avoid crowds, save money and have fun.

So, today I am sharing those secrets with YOU!

Read on to learn our best Universal Orlando Tips and Tricks for 2024. We love these parks as much as Disney World , if not more. This is truly a world-class resort.

Universal Orlando Tips

1. Stay on Property at one of these 3 Resorts! My Favorite Universal Secret

This is one of the best tips for visiting Universal Orlando (in fact, I have a whole post about it ) I have because staying on property makes all the difference in the world and is worth EVERY penny.

Let me explain. At first glance, you might notice that you can find cheaper hotels near the Universal Resort in Orlando. But, if you want Express passes, stay at these three resorts, because they come for FREE!

The three resorts on property ( Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort and the Hard Rock Hotel specifically) include FREE Universal Express Passes for each hotel guest (which gives you front of the line access to the most popular rides in the parks), early park admission, priority seating at many restaurants in City Walk and FREE transportation around the resort.

The Universal Express Passes alone would cost you a minimum of $89.99 per person and can go up to $379. With 4 guests in a room you can save $360 – $1200 per day in express passes

So, the $100 you are saving a night on your room is NOT worth it!

Staying on property at Universal Studios Florida also means you can take advantage of the beautiful walkways and boat rides available to hotel guests. It’s a convenient way to get around!

****Pro Tip**** Book your Universal Vacation with a Travel Agent Like Best Day Ever Vacations! They offer the same prices as booking direct but have extra incentives to make your trip even better!

2. Use a Travel Agent knowledgeable about Universal Orlando

When I first used to travel, we always booked everything ourselves, than I found out that a lot of travel agents work don’t charge a thing.

There is a lot to figure out when it comes to planning a Universal trip:

• How to get to the parks from the airport
• What are Express Passes
• How to travel from Park to Park
• Which hotels to stay at
• Where should you have dinner?
• Is the dining plan worth it?
• What about character breakfasts?

It’s honestly endless.

We reached out to Best Day Ever Vacations (they are seriously the best!) for our Disney Vacation and they did such an amazing job we asked if they handled Universal Orlando. Sure enough, they have Universal Orlando specialists who know everything about the parks, hotels, city walk and more. It made planning a vacation so much more fun! Pretty much 90% of the tips I have are from them.

3. Arrive Early & Leave Late

Another great tip for Universal Orlando is to take advantage of the early park entrance in the morning offered solely to guests staying on property.

But, even if you are not staying on property you will want to plan on arriving prior to the park opening hours and that is because they begin to allow guests to enter the parks early (up to a certain point) before the park officially opens.

If you are one of the folks who enter early you will be able to breeze through several wait times on the most popular attractions before the crowds arrive.

That said you will also want to stay late. Both Universal Orlando Parks tend to die down around 4pm.

Guests who stay later enjoy much shorter wait times which is why we like to get in early, then take a midday pool break at the hotel and return to the parks around 3-4pm. An easy schedule when you are staying on property.

Take a Peek Inside the Parks by watching our YouTube Video below.

Give us a thumbs up & subscribe for more great family travel videos!

4. Book the Concierge Level as it may save you money

I have a lot of kiddos, so when we stay in a concierge room, it is worth it. This means complimentary breakfast for the entire crew, snacks to take in the park, and some appetizers when we get back, so a large dinner isn’t quite needed. It is so worth it!

5. Plan for 4 Days Minimum

Now that  Volcano Bay  has opened we decided to up our recommended minimum number of days to 4 instead of 3.

You will definitly want an added full day to check out Universal Orlando’s amazing new water park. Volcano Bay has some of the BEST water attractions & slides we have EVER experienced.

The park itself is immaculate, the food is wonderful, they have two lazy rivers (one is a thrilling experience), and the kids splash areas are the best we’ve ever seen!!

I believe that 4 days is enough to conquer Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, AND the NEW Volcano Bay Water Park. That is ‘IF’ you have the Universal Express Passes for the dry parks.

If you do not have the express passes then you will want at least 5 days at the parks to be able to hit all of the popular attractions.

But, again notice that you need one less night at a hotel when you have the Express Passes which are included in the price of your stay at the on-site properties that I mentioned above. Another reason why it is actually cheaper and much better to stay at one of the hotels on the property!

6. If you are going to buy Express Passes Consider the VIP TOUR because it might be cheaper and includes A LOT MORE!!!!

People don’t know this but the Universal Orlando VIP Tour is the best deal in town. You get to the front of the line on every ride (including the ones Express pass does not cover) + it includes breakfast, lunch and valet parking and even more! Check out the details here!

7. Dates to Visit to Avoid Crowds

Avoiding the crowds is one of my favorite Universal Orlando Tips. There are three times a year where I feel like you can count on avoiding large crowds at the Universal Orland Resort.

One is the entire month of September as everyone is back in school and either just visited over summer or is planning to visit over the holidays.

The second is visiting between Dec 3rd- 15th. The closer it gets to the school winter breaks the more the traffic picks up.

The 3rd Date is the one week after January through the first week of February. Everyone has visited from the holidays and the next holiday is not til Presidents day weekend.

But, visiting Universal during the holidays is extra spectacular! In Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you can see The Grinch musical show which is a wonderful performance.

And, in Universal Studios you can witness authentic balloons and floats from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! Plus, both parks are decked out with holiday lights too. It’s my favorite time of year to visit!

8. Use Child Swap

One way to breeze through the crowds when traveling with infants and toddlers is by utilizing the “child swap” program at Universal. The “child swap” allows families traveling with little ones to wait in the queue together once while allowing both adults a turn to ride.

How this Universal Orlando Tip works is one parent stays off the ride and waits in the designated “child swap room” with the child who is not tall enough to ride. While the rest of the family hops on the ride.

When they are finished the parents swap roles and the parent who initially stayed back is given a chance to ride without having to wait in line again. Instead, they simply walk to the front of the line in the “child swap” designated area.

*Pro-Tip-Another added benefit of using the “child swap” is the second parent can take up to 3 guests with them. So, several people in the family get to ride twice!

9. Single Rider

Guests 10 years or older, also have the option of a shorter wait by being a “single rider”. Since most people ride in groups of two or more, if there is an extra spot available the attendants will ask for a single rider and you’ll be able to skip ahead in the line.

At some queues, there is even a special line reserved just for “single riders”.

10. How to Make the Most of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

Tip #1 : Avoid the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the AM!

I know this sounds contradictory to every other thing you might read BUT trust me. The first place every person heads to is the Harry Potter area in each of the parks making both of these lands complete madhouses in the morning… even for guests with early entry.

Unless you are going to be one of the first people in the park and you are going to run straight to one of the Harry Potter rides forget it.

You will have much better luck heading into these lands around 4 pm when everyone else in the park has already ‘been there, done that’.

Check out the photo above. That is my kids walking into Hogsmeade during early park entry on a non-holiday visit. Can you see the crowds in there- INSANE!!! I mean for good reason of course.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (both Hogsmeade & Diagon Alley) are the MOST INCREDIBLE themed lands I have ever visited.

Absolutely, spectacular in so many ways. However, if you can be smart and avoid the crowds I promise the experience will be even that much better.

11. Take Time to Really Explore the Harry Potter Lands

As I just mentioned, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is absolutely amazing. And, I am not just talking about the main attractions. I urge you to really explore these lands as there are magical elements hidden all around you.

If you buy an interactive wand at Ollivander’s you can actually cast spells around Diagon Alley and make magic happen right before your eyes!

On our recent visit to Universal Orlando we waited in line at Ollivander’s for the Wand Chooses the Wizard  experience and Shea got picked!!! Check out his face in our YouTube video here .

*Pro Tip-   You can also ask the goblin in the Money Exchange any question and he will respond. Ask him about the dragon in Gringotts next time you visit 😉

Head inside the stores in Diagon Alley & Hogsmeade !

Our kids got a kick out of the crazy jelly bean flavors (some are actually really gross) and the chocolate frogs.

*Pro Tip- grab your Harry Potter costume supplies before leaving home. Capes at the park are really pricey. Find ones much cheaper on Amazon here.

12. Try a Butter Beer + Secret Menu

You can’t visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter without getting your kids a Butter Beer. Who can blame them with that tasty marshmallow topping?

But, if you really want to impress your kids, head to The Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head Pub and order a Pumpkin Fizz.

*Pro Tip- It won’t be on the menu because it is a secret item.

And, knowing that will make you the coolest parent alive!!

Don’t miss the Butter Beer Flavored Ice Cream at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour, Fountain of Fair Fortune, and at select street vendors throughout Diagon Alley.

13. Take the train in between the parks

Don’t miss riding the Hogwarts Express between the parks. Not only is it a super convenient way to get around, but it is also one of my favorite Harry Potter experiences too!

I am not telling you why because I don’t want to spoil any surprises. You’ll just have to trust me on this one.

*Pro Tip- make sure to take the train from BOTH parks. The experiences are totally different.

14. Get a Coffin Full of Donuts to Start the Day

As I mentioned in our best things to do in Orlando Voodoo Doughnuts offers up one of the best fried creations in all of Orlando, at least that’s my opinion.

One of their six locations in all of the world is at Universal Citywalk in Orlando, meaning you won’t have many other opportunities to try one of these tasty and colorful pastries.

Trust me, these are not your average doughnuts. They are both extravagant in looks and in taste. You will find their shelves filled with raised yeast donuts, cake donuts, and specialty donuts of all kinds.

If you like peanut butter, you cannot miss out on the Old Dirty Bastard. Name aside, this doughnut is what dreams are made of. You can check out the full menu here!

And yes, like we said this involves a coffin. You can purchase a 3-foot wooden coffin filled with three We Pick ‘Em Voodoo Dozens.

It is a fun way to celebrate a special occasion or just do something unique while on vacation. Plus, you can never have too many doughnuts! 

15. Tips for Toddlers (height requirements)

We did notice that many of the rides had a 40-inch height requirement as our youngest is not quite that tall yet. But, that doesn’t mean there is not a ton of rides and shows available for smaller toddlers.

I recommend checking out Seuss Landing where multiple rides have lower height requirements, Shrek 4-D, Fievel’s Playground, Camp Jurassic, the Curious George Water area and a day in the Park with Barney- a live show and playground area. And, don’t forget to take your littles to hang out with the characters too!

Youngsters 34-inches tall can ride E.T. the ride which happens to be a favorite in our family. I was so sad when our CA park got rid of it and so I make sure we hop on it every time we visit the Orlando parks.

Once kids reach 36 inches tall they can test their thrill-seeking skills on Woody the Woodpecker’s Rollercoaster (above), Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Flight of Hippogriff & more.

Little ones who hit the 40-inch height requirement can ride the Seuss Trolley Train, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, the Simpson’s Ride (although it is a little frightening), Transformers, Spiderman, and more. And, once youngsters reach 42 inches tall they can also ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Men in Black, Popeye and Bluto’s water ride, and Jurassic Park… The Ride just to name a few. Check out our experience on Jurassic Park below:

16. Buying souvenirs

It’s unavoidable your kids are going to want to take home a treasure to remind them of their incredible vacation at Universal. Be smart and use Universal Orlando’s package pick-up & free package delivery to on-site hotels.

Package pick-up sends your souvenir to the front of the park so you can pick it up on your way out versus lugging it around all day. If you are staying on-site they take it a step further and deliver it right to your hotel. Just one more reason staying on property is such a smart idea!

17. How to Save on Food… Dining Plans!

Universal offers several different dining plans that can help you save money and make life a little easier too. Choose from full service or quick service plans. With up to 100 dining locations to choose from inside both parks and in City Walk your family will have plenty of options to choose from.

The full-service plan includes two of our favorite restaurants at the Universal Resort- Mythos Restaurant and The Cowfish (yes sushi + burger fusion is a thing).

But, we do find the quick service plan a little easier on the pocketbook. View the plans, list of participating restaurants and pricing here .

Family Style- Louie’s Italian Restaurant

One of the munchkins’ favorite Universal Orlando tips is heading to the back of the park at Universal Studios for the BEST theme park pizza we’ve ever had. Feeding a large family at a theme park can cost an arm and a leg.

One way we save at Universal is by ordering a whole pizza pie from Louie’s Italian Restaurant. While a single slice will run you about $7 bucks, a whole pie so roughly $30 and comes with 8 slices.

*Pro Tip- Don’t forget ice water is always complimentary so drink up.

Cheap Shareable Treat- Lad Lard’s Pink Donut

Growing up The Simpson’s was one of those shows I would watch with my dad. Most jokes went right over my head but that didn’t stop me from laughing. Walking through the Simpson’s area brought back so many memories.

So, I was a complete sucker when my kids requested an enormous pink sprinkled donut from Lad Lard’s. Luckily, it was under $5 bucks and easily shareable! Don’t take our word for it check out this article from USA Today’s 10Best.

The Tacos at BumbleBee Man’s Taco Truck is a delicious, quick, and easy on-the-go lunch or snack too!

Just for fun… Moe’s Tavern

Not really a savings tip BUT something fun to do while in the Simpson’s area is to while in the Simpson’s area is to head to Moe’s tavern to try a Duff Beer. While you are there order the kids an alcohol-free, orange-flavored Flaming Moe. The dry ice makes it smoke and the kids will get a kick out of it!

18. If You are an annual passholder, turn your soda into a delicious slush.

If you are an annual passholder, there is a wonderful lounge to relax and cool off. The best part, you can buy a soda and turn it into a delicious slush.

19. Head to City Walk

Another Universal Orlando tip I have found that works well is to leave the parks and head into City Walk for lunch. Here you will find better tasting options in my opinion and a wider variety of eateries.

It may not save a lot of cash but at least you get better quality food for your money and at lunch its a ghost town so very little wait times too! 

I personally loved the Bread Box which serves delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads. It was a healthier option and the kids loved the bench swings  located at some of the booths.

The NBC Sports Grill & Brew is a favorite amongst the kiddos in our family. Who doesn’t love a working foosball dining table 😉

City Walk also has some fun photo opportunities and great shops and because it is so quiet during the afternoon you can get a bunch of fun shots.

*Pro Tip- if you stay at one of the hotels I mentioned previously your room key will also help you get priority seating at many of the restaurants in City Walk.

20. Skip dinner at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Wait what?? You read that right. Dinner here includes a ridiculous wait time and your room key does not grant you priority seating at this hot spot.

However, the specialty here is clearly dessert and you can skip the long wait and head right inside and order your tasty treats at the counter.

Make sure you try at least one of their INCREDIBLE Artisanal Milk Shakes. Hands down the BEST flavor is Salted Caramel Pretzel but Chocolate Peanut Butter comes in close for second.

* Check out my top 10 foods you have to try at Universal

21. Don’t Miss These Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

You most likely know about all of the most popular attractions. But, there are a few things that most people are unaware of that we think are absolutely worth your time.

Live Raptor Photo Opportunity- I mean where else can you get a photo with a live raptor- ha! What makes this so incredibly fun is the employees are steadfast in the delivery of their character.

The kids were actually starting to question if the dino was going to be real. Check out the video:

Jurassic Play Area-  After you ride the Jurassic Park River Adventure, you can go to the Jurassic Park Discovery Center. Here you can relax in the air-conditioned room while kids check out all the cool dinosaurs. Make sure to wander over to the eggs. If you’re there when a baby dino breaks out of its shell, your kiddo might be lucky enough to name the newborn and get an official birth certificate!

Character Meet & Greet with Shrek & Donkey- who wouldn’t want to spend time with this hilarious duo. Make sure to check the guide for times so that you can hang out with these totally awesome and funny characters. Check out our experience below:

Fievel Playground- stop by this awesome play area to give the kids a chance to run wild. There is plenty for both little and big kids to do and it’s also a nice break for mom & dad. Liv loved playing in the ball pit and the older ones enjoyed the water slide and swinging from the giant rope.

Hello Kitty Shop – if you have young girls (or teens) they will LOVE the adorable Hello Kitty Shop located inside Universal Studios. They have every type of Hello Kitty product imaginable PLUS an adorable bakery/ candy shop too!

Free Coloring Station in Seuss Landing- little ones will love cooling down in the air conditioned stores in Seuss Landing. We found a coloring station in the store near the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!

22. Take a photo of your park passes

If you lose your park passes it can be a pain, but if you take a picture they can easily reprint them 

23. Pack some Ponchos

It’s Central Florida, which means there is a good chance of rain. Also, there are some very wet rides. So, pack some ponchos and save yourself the exorbitant costs of paying for a poncho at the parks.

24. GET A BIRTHDAY BUTTON (READER SUGGESTION!)

Here is one of the comments that I thought was a great idea.

“If it’s someone’s birthday, get a birthday button. When I went with my sister, we got backdoor access to a couple of rides and they sang Happy Birthday to her over the intercom at Men in Black!” -Crystal

25. There are 2 Lazy Rivers at Volcano Bay and one is absolutely not Lazy!

If you decide to hit up Volcano Bay you will for sure find yourself in the Lazy River, however some people do not realize there are actually two rivers.

One nice and mellow river and one that is more of a fast paced rapid ride. Everyone in the fast paced river is required to wear a life vest as the water does move quite fast, but it is super fun!

26. Download the Universal app beforehand

You can then link your tickets and credit card to the app. When you are in the water park you can use their special Tapu Tapu Tapu to pay for items. The app also gives wait times for the 2 main parks.

27. Save Hundreds of Dollars by renting a Stroller from an offsite vendor!

The strollers at Universal are expensive and not very comfortable. Kingdom Strollers has been around for over 20 years and they will save you a ton of money plus they deliver the stroller to your hotel or Airbnb!

You simply place your order and then meet them at your hotel at one of their 5 daily meetup times and grab your stroller.

It couldn’t be any easier Check em out here! In fact now you can pick up your stroller at the Orlando Airport. It is pretty convenient

28. Universal Tips for Adults – Visit During Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is one of the best times to visit the parks with or without kids, but especially without kids since Universal’s Mardi Gras events are going on.

You will enjoy, live concerts from top artists, amazing food, and plenty of celebratory drinks and parades. You can check out all the Mardi Gras details here.

29. Take the Hogwarts Express from Universal Studios and Disappear into the Wall!

Ever wanted to disappear into a brick wall like they do in Harry Potter. If you take the Hogwarts Express from Universal Studios to Islands of Adventure you will enjoy all the whimsy of Hogsmeade station including an illusion which makes it seem like you disappear into a brick wall (check it out in the video above). 

Map of Islands of Adventures

Universal Orlando Tips FAQ’s

How do i get the most out of universal studios.

Stay in an onsite hotel for FREE Express Passes Arrive Early Go to Harry Potter’s World later in the day Allow 45 Minutes for Parking & Security Use Rider Switch Pass if you have kids that are too small

How can I save money at Universal Studios Orlando?

Pre-Purchase Tickets from Discount Ticket Sites Like Undercover Tourist Bring your own water Get Free Express Passes by staying at an onsite hotel Get a whole Pizza for the Family at Louise’s Visit during the off season for the best deals

What rides to go on first at Universal Studios?

Hollywood Rip Rock it Transformers Mummy the Ride Harry Potter Escape from Gringots

Is Express Pass worth it at Universal?

It depends on how much time you have to spend at the parks. If you are short on time, yes! The cheapest way to get Express passes is staying at an onsite hotel. You get 5 for 2 days for 1 night at a hotel.

Pin for later- 29 Amazing Universal Orlando Tips

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Reader Interactions

November 30, 2016 at 12:46 pm

You definitely need inside tips when you visit places like this! It can make all the difference for a trip! Great share!

November 30, 2016 at 4:03 pm

The concierge level sounds like a game changer! Will try next time!

November 30, 2016 at 9:27 pm

I love posts like these! I have never spent time in Orlando but it’s on my list. Pinning this for when I get to cross it off because it will come in handy with planning. Thank you!

December 13, 2016 at 1:10 pm

So many awesome tips! We stayed on site on our last visit and it was totally worth it! I’ll definitely pay with my AMEX next time to get access to the lounge.

February 19, 2022 at 6:25 am

I must have missed the benefit of using AMEX. Can you please fill me in?

December 13, 2016 at 7:21 pm

Man! You really are an expert! Great tips lady.

December 14, 2016 at 6:22 pm

I had NO IDEA about these great tips. I especially like the Child Swap scheme and analyzing hotels for whether they include passes! Brilliant.

March 9, 2017 at 4:51 pm

This helped me out a lot! We plan on going to City Walk for lunch, because I *need* to try that shake at that Chocolate place. I don’t even care if the food is crap. I told my kids we’re going because Mommy needs a gigantic shake.

March 10, 2017 at 10:22 am

I love that about you. You totally deserve the milkshake taking the kids by yourself. You won’t need to worry about the food at all. That shake is a meal on it’s own anyways.

April 20, 2017 at 5:13 am

I love the am ex tip & staying on property perks! Had no idea! Also love the moes tavern!

July 14, 2017 at 3:45 pm

Very detailed post! I didn’t realize that you get express passes staying at the resort, great idea!

July 15, 2017 at 7:11 pm

Yes, and those express passes are EVERYTHING! Makes the park experience SOOO much more enjoyable.

July 15, 2017 at 4:56 am

We always stay at the resorts in Orlando. Even though it can be a little more expensive at times, it’s worth it to maximize on time. A lot of the resorts we’ve stayed at come with snacks twice a day and you can grab an apple or orange to take into the park to make it stretch even longer! I can’t wait to get back to Disney and Universal! I haven’t seen any of the newer part of Wizarding World of HP.

July 15, 2017 at 7:10 pm

Exactly! And, yes you have to go back. Diagon Alley is SOO cool. The dragon is amazing.

July 15, 2017 at 3:33 pm

Great tips! My parents love Disney World and Orlando Studios. They go every couple of years and have a trip planned in the Fall. I will pass on these tips!

July 15, 2017 at 7:09 pm

Awesome, thank you!!

August 7, 2017 at 10:19 pm

Great tips for a first timer. One question, and maybe I missed it, did you mention anything about a pass that lets you park hope? I am using almost every one of your tips, thanks again!

August 8, 2017 at 6:50 am

There are multi-park tickets that allow you to go between parks in the same day. And, there are express passes that allow you to get to the front of the lines. Express passes are included when you stay on property at most of their resorts too.

September 29, 2017 at 11:04 am

Volcano Bay is a no-no as far as I could see from endless horrible reviews. Too crowded and bracelet system doesn’t work. Better off going to Disney’s or Sea World’s aqua parks.

September 29, 2017 at 11:30 am

Thank you for the comment. I definitely agree that Universal needs to limit the amount of people they allow in and work on their bands. But, now that it’s a quieter season (as opposed to a brand new park in the summer) I’m guessing things are slowing down. And, if that’s the case I don’t think the park itself with the rides it has can be beat by any of the other Orlando water parks. In fact I can confidently say that Volcano Bay had the best rides, slides, play areas and was the cleanest water park I had ever visited. They also had the best food. So when they get all the tweaks worked out I think it will be unstoppable ?

May 7, 2018 at 5:44 pm

We just went in April and the bracelet system was fantastic! They must have gotten all the hiccups worked out because it was flawless. We rented chairs too. Our attendant brought us our food and refilled our water bottles all day long. It was a great experience.

May 8, 2018 at 6:16 am

That is wonderful news!!! I absolutely LOVED the park and was only concerned with the lines. I figured they would learn and improve. Great news!!

July 9, 2018 at 6:11 pm

We have never been to universal, but would you say it’s a full day in each park? And how may parks are there?

July 9, 2018 at 9:00 pm

Hey Mandy, There are three parks. If you don’t have the express pass, it is definitely a full day in each park. If you do have the express pass you can possibly hit up two parks in one day. The parks are a good size and a ton of fun.

December 12, 2019 at 8:17 am

Also a fun tip: outside of Diagon Alley at Universal studios, if you knock on the door of 12 Grimmauld Place, you can see Kreacher peak out through the curtains.

August 20, 2019 at 6:41 am

Thanks Lucy for the sweet comments. Please feel free to contact us with any questions about your trip.

December 11, 2019 at 8:34 am

The BEST Universal Orlando Tips from a Pro [Over 20 Amazing Tips] – Great site. A lot of useful info here. I’m sending it to several friends ans also sharing in delicious. And certainly, thank you to your effort!- calator.tel

February 9, 2020 at 5:57 am

If it’s someone’s birthday, get a birthday button. When I went with my sister, we got backdoor access to a couple of rides and they sang Happy Birthday to her over the intercom at Men in Black!

February 13, 2020 at 8:36 am

The pictures of your children in the park really made this list special. Thanks for sharing.

September 11, 2020 at 3:19 pm

I was surprised by the difference in the daily rates of a common hotel to a hotel in the Universal complex. Actually, even though it is a little more expensive, the advantages far outweigh the difference. Thank you for all this information.

June 6, 2021 at 5:45 am

We just visited the end of may and the parks we’re super crowded,that being said we purchased the unlimited express pass and it may be pricy but my family never had so much fun,we had no wait times and that makes a high difference compared to the other people I saw waiting over an hour on some rides. Also they do have a medical assistant pass for people with conditions that make waiting in line difficult , very helpful with two children with conditions that make it hard to wait in the heat. Can’t wait to go back ,I think we will definitely stay at one of the big three hotels to get express pass

June 6, 2021 at 6:23 am

Glad you had a great time. Yes, when it is crowded, those express passes are a game changer.

February 15, 2023 at 11:19 am

ANYONE HAVE A STRATEGY FOR ONE PERSON, AGE 20, WHO ONLY HAS ONE DAY, WANTS TO DO BOTH PARKS IN EARLY MARCH 2023 ? I SEE SINGLE RIDERS OPTIONS, SHOULD I STILL GET EXPRESS PASS? PLAN TO BE THERE WHEN PARK OPENS AND STAY UNTIL IT CLOSES! THANKS IN ADVANCE FOR INPUT!

February 24, 2023 at 5:44 am

With Single Rider you should be able to get on almost all the major rides in one day.

[…] Great tips from Global Munchkins on visiting Universal: The Best Universal Orlando Tips From A Pro […]

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The best theme parks in Orlando

We've rounded up the best theme parks in the city, with all the new rides opening this year

You might be in Florida for its boiling, sunny climates and great food scene, but really, you’re here for its theme parks. The theme parks here are like no other, full of all the insane rides, sprawling resorts and sugary sweet treats you can imagine. But there is more, far more to Orlando’s iconic theme parks than Mickey Mouse mascots and very long lines. 

Here you’ll find storybook castles, childhood fantasies and real-life sea creatures. You’ll find your favorite adventure films and mesmerizing dinosaur parks. Whatever you’re looking for, we’ve broken down the best theme parks in Orlando and ranked them too, noting what you should do, eat and see at each one, and what’s new and coming up soon. This year 2023 will see a new Minions experience, an expansion of Toy Story Land and a new meet and greet with Moana (and much, much more). There’s something for everyone. Here are the best theme parks in Orlando right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Orlando 🍣 The best restaurants in Orlando 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando

An email you’ll actually love

Best theme parks in Orlando

1.  Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World

• Theme parks
• Camino Real

There really is nothing like walking down Main Street USA at Walt Disney World. Magic Kingdom is filled with nostalgia for young and old with rides like Space Mountain and The Jungle Cruise, and characters like Mickey Mouse and Snow White parading down the street waving to guests. 

What’s new : In late 2023, the 100 Years of Wonder  Celebration for Disney’s 100th anniversary will commence, and it's going to be big.

Pro-tip : Did you know you can get your hair cut on Main Street, USA? Make an appointment at the Harmony Barber Shop first thing in the morning and see what the professionals at Magic Kingdom can do to make you feel like royalty for the day. 

2.  Universal's Islands Of Adventure, Universal Orlando Resort

• Turkey Lake

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is the place for Harry Potter  fans. The park plays host to wizards, witches, and goblins as they take flight on attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. On the other side of the park, you’ll find a land dedicated to Dr. Suess charters, Marvel Super Hero Island (where you can fly high with The Incredible Hulk and Spider-Man), and a Jurassic Park-themed land. 

What’s new : The new Jurassic World VelociCoaster is now in full swing in the Islands of Adventure, and the resort is working on a new Epic Universe, featuring How to Train Your Dragon and yes, more Harry Potter . 

Universal’s Islands of Adventure pro-tip : While everyone knows about frozen butterbeer, you can also get the iconic flavor in ice cream and fudge. 

3.  Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World

• The Fountains

The worlds of  Toy Story ,  Star Wars , and classic Disney characters all come together at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The park may be the smallest of the Walt Disney World properties, but it became a prime destination when  Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge opened in 2019. The themed land has its own original storyline that fits into the ongoing  Star Wars  saga. Inside you’ll find two attractions, a bar, a few restaurants and plenty of shopping. Kids will love the larger-than-life  Toy Story  friends who have come out to greet them, and they'll even get to ride on the back of Slinky Dog on Slinky Dog Dash. 

What’s new : Toy Story Land has received a major expansion of late, including the Toy Story Roundup Rodeo BBQ Restaurant, which just opened. 

Pro-tip : If you see 13 as the wait time for Tower of Terror get in line because that means that there is actually no wait!

4.  EPCOT, Walt Disney World

• Convention Center

EPCOT is usually known as Walt Disney Word's adult-centric park with festivals that encourage eating and drinking all day and popping in and out of shows about each country represented in the World Showcase. But the park is currently undergoing a refurbishment and new attractions are set to open over the next few years, which are expected to make  the park lean more towards being kid and family-friendly. 

What’s new : EPCOT is getting a new nighttime fireworks show in late 2023, and the Moana -inspired Journey of Water should follow too. 

Pro-tip : Remy's Ratatouille Adventure inside the France pavilion is one of the newest experiences at the park. You can wait less time by going here first thing in the morning or getting in line late at night just before the park closes. 

5.  LEGOLAND Theme Park, LEGOLAND Florida Resort

• Zoo and aquariums

At LEGOLAND Theme Park everything is bigger and better than any kid could have imagined with attractions like Lost Kingdom Adventure and LEGO NINJAGO World. When it’s time to take a break, head over to Pirate’s Cove to watch Brickbeard’s Water Sports Stunt Show on the lake that backs up to the LEGOLAND property. 

What’s new : The newly-opened Pirate River Quest (from late 2022) has been going down a storm, with eight-person boats sailing across the waters. 

Pro-tip : Be sure to get the apple fries at the park! These are easily the best treat at LEGOLAND Theme Park. 

6.  Peppa Pig Theme Park, LEGOLAND Florida Resort

The newest theme park to open in Orlando is the Peppa Pig Theme Park, part of the LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The theme park is mainly for preschoolers with rides based on the popular cartoon series it is named after (no great surprise there). Many of the attractions do not have a height requirement, meaning even younger kids can enjoy a day at the theme park.

What's new:  It's a pretty new park on the whole, so give it all a go, especially the family shows at Mr Potato's Showtime Arena. 

Pro-tip:  This is a great half-day park, especially for parents with kids who have never been to a theme park. 

7.  Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Walt Disney World

This massive theme park has lands dedicated to Africa and Asia that will make you feel like you're traveling through real-world locations, and the park also has fictional lands dedicated to the worlds of Avatar and dinosaurs. While many people will race off to ride Avatar Flight of Passage first thing in the morning, real Disney pros know that the first stop should always be Kilamanjaro Safaris, because this is when the animals are the most active. If you’ve never heard a lion roar after your morning coffee, you’re really missing out. 

What’s new : As of April 2023, you can now meet Moana at Character Landing. This was introduced for the park's 25th anniversary. 

Pro-tip : Tackle Expedition Everest faster by doing the single rider line. If you enter the line as a group you will be split up, but it's worth it to get on the coaster faster.  

8.  Universal Studios Florida, Universal Orlando Resort

• Historic buildings and sites
• Florida Center

Universal Studios Florida is home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Diagon Alley, E.T. Adventure, and The Mummy, among other attractions. Inside Diagon Alley, you can zip through Gringotts Bank on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and drink a glass of Butterbeer with your pals at The Leaky Cauldron. After channeling your inner wizard, hop on a bike with E.T. to get him back to his home planet on E.T. Adventure. Universal fans also know this is the best ride to walk through the queue because of the iconic smell that hits you the moment you walk into the forest. 

What’s new : Interactive gaming experience Villain-Con Minion Blast is opening summer 2023, where you can join Illumination's Minions on their quest. 

Pro-tip : When you're riding Men in Black Alien Attack, be sure to press the red button when prompted. This will boost your score and will likely make you the high-point scorer in your car. 

9.  SeaWorld Theme Park, SeaWorld Orlando

Just because SeaWorld is last on our list doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. The expansive park shows off all sorts of creatures from the depths of the sea, including dolphins, whales, and adorable penguins. Adults will love the high-speed coasters like Kraken and Manta, while kids will enjoy seeing their favorite Sesame Street friends at Sesame Street Land. Be sure to take a ride on Sky Tower, so you can see the entire park from a bird's eye view along with panoramic views of Orlando. 

What’s new : Ice Breaker, a new coaster at the park, opened in February 2022. 

Pro-tip : You can schedule tours to learn more about some of the animals at SeaWorld, including dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and sharks. Tours should be made ahead of time, but there are sometimes slots available at the park.

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Ultimate Beginners Guide to Orlando Theme Parks

This beginners guide to Orlando theme parks will help you decide which Florida theme parks to visit during your Orlando family vacation.

Planning a family vacation to the Orlando theme parks can feel very overwhelming. It is often difficult to know where to start.

There are numerous theme parks in the Orlando area and deciding which Orlando theme park is best for your Orlando vacation can be tricky.

This guide to the Orlando theme parks will help you decide what is best for you based on what you are looking for in an Orlando theme park vacation.

Questions I often get when people are considering which theme park to visit in Orlando are: Which characters are at which parks? Can you visit all the Orlando theme parks in one visit? Is Harry Potter at Disney?

I have visited Walt Disney World many times, have been a Universal Orlando annual pass holder, and have also visited the many theme parks in the Orlando area.

I am here to help you plan the best Orlando theme park vacation that is right for your family.

Guide to Orlando Theme Parks

The best place to start is with an overview of the all central Florida parks to determine what is a good fit for you and your family.

Once you decided where you want to go and what you want to see, then you can begin planning the trip.

Orlando has some of the best theme parks in the world. There are 14+ Florida theme parks in Orlando.

List of Orlando Theme Parks

• Magic Kingdom Park (Walt Disney World Resort)
• Epcot (Walt Disney World)
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Walt Disney World )
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Walt Disney World)
• Typhoon Lagoon (Walt Disney World, Water Park)
• Blizzard Beach (Walt Disney World, Water Park)
• Universal Studios Florida (Universal Orlando Resort)
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure (Universal Orlando Resort)
• Epic Universe (Universal Orlando Resort, Opening Summer 2025 )
• Volcano Bay (Universal Orlando Resort, Water Park)
• Aquatica (SeaWorld, Water Park)
• Discovery Cove (SeaWorld)
• Legoland Florida Theme Park and Water Park (Legoland Resort)
• Peppa Pig Theme Park (Legoland Resort)

Each theme park destination has more than one theme park and you will typically need multiple days if you plan to visit multiple parks.

Each park has its own themed areas and unique attractions. Most offer new attractions, live shows, and world class entertainment.

There are also special events that run at different times of the year that are worth checking out. My favorite special event is Mardi Gras and the Holidays at Universal .

Most of the Orlando theme parks also have on-site resorts as well as activities outside of the theme parks.

For example the Disney parks have Disney Springs , a shopping and dining district. The Universal parks have CityWalk for guests to dine at when they want a break from the parks.

Read on for a full guide of the Orlando theme parks and what to expect at each one.

Location of Orlando Theme Parks from Orlando International Airport

Guests visiting the Orlando theme parks will arrive by car (we have made the drive from New York to Florida ) or by airplane.

Most guests will fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO). From there guests will have to rent a car, Uber/Lyft, or make a reservation with a shuttle company.

We have used Mears in previous visits and both are comparable in price.

If you are planning on visiting multiple theme parks that are not at the same resort you may want to rent a car.

For example if you are visiting the Disney parks and the Universal parks, a car will make travel between the two resorts easier.

If you are staying at one resort, say the Universal parks for the duration of your vacation, you do not need a car once you arrive at your resort.

Universal and Disney both provide transportation from their on-site hotels to their theme parks.

Distance from the theme parks and MCO

• Magic Kingdom: 22 miles
• Epcot: 21 miles
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 19 miles
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 22 miles
• Universal Orlando Resort: 16 miles
• SeaWorld Resort: 12 miles
• Legoland Florida: 51 miles

The Disney Parks, Universal Parks, and SeaWorld parks are all within miles of each other. Legoland is a bit further out.

Distance from Disney and Universal

This will vary based on where you are staying. Universal Studios to Magic Kingdom is 15 miles. Expect about 25-30 minutes or more to get between the theme parks.

Traffic in Orlando can be very busy at times so plan extra time if you are driving.

Tickets for Orlando Theme Parks

When looking for tickets for the Orlando theme parks be sure to shop around.

Start by checking the website of the parks you are planning on visiting. Then start pricing out different ticket offers. Start with the website for the theme park you are visiting to see current special offers.

Walt Disney World Parks

Walt Disney World is the largest of the Orlando theme parks with 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, a dining district, and over 30 on-site resorts.

They offer complimentary bus transportation throughout the resort if you are staying on-site. You need to provide your own transportation to and from the airport.

Once you arrive at Disney World it is easy to stay there for the duration of your vacation.

If you decide to visit the Walt Disney World resort start with reading our Best Disney World Itinerary Planning Guide for Families .

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is the first Disney theme park to open in Orlando. It is what most people think of when they visit Disney World.

Magic Kingdom is home to Cinderella’s Castle and classic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and Peter Pan.

Articles about Magic Kingdom

• One Day Magic Kingdom Itinerary (Magic Kingdom Touring Plan)
• Best Rides at Magic Kingdom for School Age Kids
• Guide to Magic Kingdom Characters at Disney World
• Epcot vs. Magic Kingdom: Which Disney Park is Best?

Epcot is divided into four areas World Nature, World Discovery, World Celebration, and the World Showcase.

Guests can ride Soarin’, Finding Nemo, Test Track, and the new Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout Coaster.

World Showcase allows guests to visit 11 different countries and experience their culture. The most popular attractions here are Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After.

Articles about Epcot

• Guide to Things to Do in Epcot at Walt Disney World
• Epcot with Kids: Tips for Planning a Day at Epcot for Families
• Where to Eat Breakfast at Epcot
• What Countries Are in Epcot World Showcase Pavilions

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a fun park with themed lands. They have recently opened Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge which offers an immersive Star Wars Land where guests can ride Star Wars attractions and meet Star Wars characters .

Hollywood Studios is also home to Toy Story Land , Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, the first Mickey themed attraction ever, and the Tower of Terror.

There are many shows and characters to meet at Hollywood Studios too. It is a great park especially for kids 7 and up.

Articles about Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• One Day Hollywood Studios Itinerary
• Hollywood Studios Build a Droid Disney World Experience
• 12 Best Attractions at Hollywood Studios
• Disney World Toy Story Land Review, Rides, and Tips

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has attractions and animal exhibits to explore in this unique park. This is a large park where guests will walk a lot.

There are different areas to explore animal exhibits and attractions. Animal lovers should definitely visit this park.

Our favorite area is Pandora: World of Avatar. The Flight of Passage attraction is one of our favorites.

Lines will get long for this attraction and I highly suggest booking a Lightning Lane pass or riding at park opening.

When visiting Animal Kingdom you should plan on taking your time to explore everything and see all the shows.

We also enjoy participating in the Wilderness Explorer Club, a free activity where kids can earn patches at different stops throughout the park.

Articles about Animal Kingdom

• One Day at Animal Kingdom
• Everything You Need to Know to Be a Wilderness Explorer
• Best Rides at Animal Kingdom
• Characters to Meet at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Typhoon Lagoon

Typhoon Lagoon is a water park at Disney World. The theme is that the island has been washed away by a typhoon and what is left is this peaceful beach themed park.

Articles About Typhoon Lagoon

• Best Rides at Typhoon Lagoon That You Need to Try

Blizzard Beach

Blizzard Beach is the second water park at Disney World. This is themed to a beach taken over by snow. The theme is really fun and the park is a great choice for visiting a water park during your Disney vacation.

Our friends at Raising Whasians have a great article about what to expect at Blizzard Beach for your visit .

There is so much to do at Walt Disney World with 7 theme parks to visit. We have stayed on-site during our Disney vacations.

A few of our resort reviews to help you plan: Disney’s Pop Century Resort Review for Families , Disney’s Grand Floridian Review with Kids , and Disney Riviera Resort Review .

Check out our Best Tips for Visiting Walt Disney World for the First Time to help you start planning your visit.

Universal Orlando Parks

Universal Orlando Resort has 2 theme parks and 1 water park. They also have 8 resorts and an entertainment district.

I go into more details in this article about the Universal Orlando Resort Parks and Hotels .

Universal will be opening a third park in 2025 called Epic Universe.

Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios is the original of the Universal Orlando parks . It is set up like a working studio but not much, if any filming is going on at the parks anymore.

Universal Studios has attractions like E.T. the Adventure, Transformers, The Mummy, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Diagon Alley.

Articles About Universal Studios

• Best Rides at Universal Studios for Families
• Universal Studios Height Requirements and Scare Factor Guide
• Universal Studios Tips and Guide for Families
• One Day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Orlando

Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure opened in 1998 and it has received great reviews since day one. Universal’s Islands of Adventure has a bit more thrilling rides than Universal Studios and is home to The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic Park attractions, and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

You will also find a theme Dr. Seuss area, Seuss Landing, that kids will love as well as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure has attraction that are great for thrill seeking older kids.

Articles About Islands of Adventure

• Best Rides at Islands of Adventure
• Islands of Adventure Height Requirements and Scare Factor Guide
• Islands of Adventure Itinerary: One Day Islands of Adventure Touring Plan
• 14 Things to Experience at Seuss Landing in Universal Orlando

Read Next: Universal Studios vs. Islands of Adventure (Best Universal Park)

Volcano bay.

Volcano Bay is Universal Orlando’s water park. This water park is unlike any I have ever visited. It is themed so well and you feel like you are at an island oasis, not in the middle of Orlando.

You could spend the entire day relaxing at the wave pool overlooking the volcano. It is a stunning park.

Articles About Volcano Bay

• Universal’s Volcano Bay: What You Need to Know for Your First Visit

Universal Orlando is becoming a destination in itself. We have spent a few Orlando vacations staying on-site at Universal’s Cabana Bay and Universal’s Surfside Inn and Suites as well as Hard Rock Hotel Orlando Review .

It is a great place for your family vacation. Check out How to Plan Your First Universal Orlando Vacation Guide for great tips and tricks.

SeaWorld Parks

SeaWorld has three parks in Orlando as well as Busch Gardens in Tampa. The original park SeaWorld has rides and attractions. Aquatica and Discovery Cove are water themed parks.

SeaWorld is home to some of the largest roller coasters in Orlando. We visited during the holidays for their Christmas events and really enjoyed ourselves.

Recently we spent a day at SeaWorld during the Seven Seas Food Festival. Read this post for the best things to do at SeaWorld .

If your family loves roller coasters you will enjoy the top notch ones at SeaWorld. Check out our visit to SeaWorld during the holidays to learn more.

Aquatica is a water park in Orlando. It has fun rides for the entire family and often lower crowds than the Disney or Universal Parks.

Learn more about Aquatica from this article on Why You Should Visit Aquatica with Kids .

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is not really a theme park. It is a fully inclusive day that includes animal encounters, swimming, and food and drinks for the day.

This experience only allows a limited amount of people a day to make it a completely immersive and relaxing day. Learn more about visiting Discovery Cove in this article.

Outside of Orlando

If you want to take a day trip out of Orlando you can also visit Busch Gardens in Tampa or LEGOLAND Florida . Both are over an hour drive but are great parks for families.

Legoland Florida has 3 on-site resorts as well as the theme park, a water park, and the Peppa Pig theme park.

Tips for Visiting the Orlando Theme Parks

Don’t expect to do all of the theme parks in one visit. It is really difficult to visit all the theme parks during a typical one week vacation.

Not only is it exhausting, it is also more expensive then staying at one theme park resort for the duration of your trip.

Universal and Disney World follow a “more you stay, less you pay (per day)” ticket structure. This means 5 days at Disney World will likely cost less than 3 days at Disney/2 days at Universal.

Pick the theme park that interests you the most. Decide on the attractions you want to see and focus on those for your trip. Don’t waste time worrying about what you don’t get to see. Focus on what you do experience.

Consider the age and height of your kids. If you are traveling with small children consider the height requirements of the attractions at the parks.

These article go into more details about what parks are best for small children:

• Universal Studios Height Requirements and Scare Factor (A Guide for Families)
• Islands of Adventure Height Requirements and Ride Scare Factor (A Guide for Families)
• Best Thrill Rides at Disney World

FAQ’s about the Theme Parks in Orlando

Is there public transportation.

Yes, the city of Orlando does have public transportation but I would not rely on it for transportation within the parks.

Most theme parks have buses within the resorts to take guests from their resorts to the theme parks.

Is Harry Potter at Disney World?

No, Harry Potter is not at the Disney parks. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is at the Universal parks. The Disney parks and the Universal parks are not the same destination.

What parks have Star Wars?

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is a fully immersive land where guests can build a Droid and ride the Millennium Falcon.

Can you purchase one ticket for all of the Orlando theme parks?

As far as I know the answer is no. You may be able to work with a travel agent to bundle your tickets but I do not know of any seller that offers all parks at a discounted price.

I hope our Orlando theme park guide helps you decide what Florida theme parks are the best choice for your family vacation. With great attractions at each park, any choice will be a fun trip to Orlando.

If you are looking for specific information go directly to our Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando archives for more information. You can also try the search bar.

Read Next: 1 Week Orlando Vacation

Leah has been traveling with her family of 5 since 2012 and sharing her expertise on planning family vacations and visiting theme parks since 2016. Leah has been featured in Visit Rochester , Undercover Tourist , and Home Publications . She has worked with brands like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Hersheypark, Toyota, and various Tourism boards and destinations. Leah creates family travel itineraries based on real trip experiences with her family. Her guides and tips help others plan great family vacations. Learn more about Leah and Five for the Road .

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THE 10 BEST Orlando Theme Parks

Theme parks in orlando.

• Disney Parks & Activities
• Theme Parks
• Water Parks
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Florida Center
• Lake Buena Vista
• International Drive
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Universal Islands of Adventure

2. Discovery Cove

3. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort

4. Magic Kingdom Park

5. Universal Studios Florida

6. Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

7. Fun Spot America

9. Walt Disney World Resort

10. SeaWorld

11. Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

12. Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

13. ICON Park

14. Star Wars Launch Bay

15. Orlando StarFlyer

16. Dezerland Park Orlando

17. Jurassic World Velocicoaster

18. Frozen Ever After

19. Star Wars Rise of The Resistance

20. Mission: SPACE

21. Men In Black Alien Attack

22. Na'vi River Journey

23. Feathered Friends In Flight

24. Camp Jurassic

25. Millenium Falcon: Smuggler's Run

26. Universal Orlando Resort

27. World Showcase

28. TRON Lightcycle

29. The Land

30. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

What travelers are saying.

• Kennedy Space Center Admission Ticket
• Walt Disney World Water Park Tickets
• Orlando StarFlyer Swing Ride Admission
• Fun Spot America Theme Parks - Orlando
• Universal Orlando Park to Park Tickets - USA / Canada Residents
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort
• Universal Islands of Adventure
• Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• Universal Studios Florida
• Discovery Cove
• Fun Spot America
• Orlando StarFlyer
• Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
• Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
• Magic Kingdom Park

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The ultimate guide to Orlando’s best theme parks

Siobhan grogan shares all you need to know to take your family to walt disney world resort and universal orlando resort in florida, article bookmarked.

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A holiday to Orlando tops most families’ bucket lists thanks to year-round sunshine, child-friendly accommodation and world-famous theme parks.

With their magical mix of high-octane thrills, traditional charm and dazzlingly detailed immersive theming, Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are fail-safe favourites for any parent planning a Florida trip their kids will never forget. Throw in big-name attractions from Star Wars, Harry Potter, Toy Story, Marvel, Frozen, Minions, Jurassic Park and Guardians of the Galaxy and it’s no surprise that Orlando is the most popular destination in the US for British visitors.

However, there’s more to a holiday in Orlando than simply buying theme park tickets. From navigating queues for the most popular rides to cutting costs in the parks, here’s what I’ve discovered on my visits to Florida to help you have a stress-free holiday to remember.

Read more on USA travel :

• The 10 best US cities for solo female travellers you might not have considered
• Nature on a grand scale: hike trails, scale peaks and explore dramatic landscapes in Arizona
• Best hotels in Orlando 2023: Smart-casual resorts and experimental experiences

When should I book?

As early as possible to nab the cheapest flights and best hotel deals. Standard rooms at Disney’s most affordable properties sell out first, yet offer the same perks as the priciest on-site hotels, including free resort transportation to Disney World’s four parks, early park entry and advance restaurant booking.

Check disneypackages.co.uk for early booking bonuses too. Rooms at Disney’s Pop Century Resort with its three heated pools and nightly campfires start from £126pp per night in 2024 including direct flights, dining credit and park tickets. You’ll save even more if you can avoid school and US holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break in March and April. The quietest months include January, February, May, late August, September and early November.

Should I book the cheapest hotel at Universal Orlando Resort?

Not always. Rooms at the three most expensive Universal hotels – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort – start at £369 per night but include an Express Pass to access shorter queues in the resort’s two theme parks, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. Even in peak season, it’s almost always cheaper to stay at one of these if you’re considering buying Express Passes anyway as these start at £92pp a day. Remember the pass includes days checking in and out too, so even one night’s stay will give you two day’s queue-jumping. Consider ticking off the busiest rides before moving to a cheaper hotel for days by the pool or visiting Disney World and nearby water parks. Try Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites, which has a surfboard-shaped pool, in-room pizza delivery and rooms from £109 per night.

Can I skip queues at Walt Disney World Resort?

Yes, but you’ll need to buy a Disney Genie Plus+ pass, starting at $15 a day and requiring a separate theme park reservation and ticket. This can only be bought from midnight on the day of your visit and allows you to use the Lightning Lane entrance at selected rides. You can make your first selection at 7am, then the next once you tap in for that ride or after two hours, whichever comes first. Disney estimates this allows you to ride two to three attractions a day more quickly, but I’ve usually managed more, especially in the Magic Kingdom. Reserve the most popular ride first on the dot of 7am, then pick up reservations for quieter rides through the day, setting a phone alarm to remind you when each booking window opens. If parks are busy, it’s well worth the extra cost and I’ve never waited more than 15 minutes in any Lightning Lane, compared to 90 minutes or more in the regular queues.

How can I make the most of my days at the parks?

Arrive early and stay late as wait times drop when families with young children leave or people head for dinner. It’s also easier to get on rides more quickly during evening fireworks displays. Try to see theatre shows like Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ hilarious Frozen Sing-Along or Universal Studios’ Bourne Stuntacular in the afternoon when crowds are heaviest and temperatures highest. It’s also worth using the single-rider line to fill any spots left on rides by larger groups. This is free and much quicker than the regular queue, but you will ride separately from the rest of your group.

Any advice for Disney World?

The Walt Disney World Resort covers a colossal 43 square miles so consider where you’ll be each day before booking restaurants, so you’re not jumping between the four huge theme parks. On-site buses, boats and monorails are free, but leave an hour to travel between places. Uber is also very reliable, and much quicker and more convenient if time is tight. For dining, book restaurants in advance, order quick-service meals on the app to skip queues and remember that character breakfasts are much cheaper than dinners if you’re splurging on a meal with Mickey and friends. Rides not to miss include the brand-new, exhilarating TRON Lightcycle/Run; Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance; and the spectacular Avatar Flight of Passage.

And at Universal Orlando Resort?

Carry as little as possible. You’ll need to stow everything in free but very small lockers for several rides including The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit with bigger lockers costing $2 (£1.60) a ride. If you’re using an Express Pass, bring a lanyard from home for easy scanning as one in the park will cost at least $20 (£16). Most importantly, go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to sample butterbeer at the Leaky Cauldron and ride a real-life Hogwarts Express either first thing or before the parks close to avoid huge crowds. Be warned that wizard robes cost around $139 (approx. £111) so bring one from home or call in at Target or Walmart just outside the resort as both stock a huge, reasonably-priced range of Universal and Disney merchandise.

Travel essentials

A 14-night stay at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida costs from £1,766pp with Walt Disney Travel Company International. This includes accommodation at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, direct return flights with British Airways, $504 Dining and Merchandise Credit, Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket for the whole party and a $400 Disney Gift Card; disneypackages.co.uk .

Seven nights at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort including Universal Orlando 3 Park Explorer Tickets costs from £2,552 based on two adults and two children aged three to nine sharing a standard two-queen room. A Universal Orlando 3 Park Explorer Ticket cost from £319 per adult and £309 per child aged three to nine, valid for up to 14 consecutive days; attractiontickets.com .

Virgin Atlantic flies daily between London Heathrow and Orlando from £464 per person.

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Universal Orlando guide: Tips from frequent visitors

When I was a kid, we went to an Orlando theme park at least once a year. You had to plan a few things in advance, but visiting an amusement park wasn't what it is today. With all the apps, reservation timelines and rules, planning the "perfect" trip to any major theme park has become a massive endeavor.

Just thinking about planning the trip is enough to give me hives. The stakes are so high — pricey admission, reservation deadlines for everything from character breakfasts to dinners at popular restaurants and all sorts of add-ons to get into the theme parks before the masses and skip the lines. There's so much to know.

However, we really wanted to visit Universal Orlando on a family vacation , so I needed to overcome my planning paralysis. I'm happy to say that — with some strategic decisions upfront — we were able to execute an awesome visit to Universal with a minimal amount of advance planning.

If you're a first-time visitor to Universal Orlando, here's what you need to know to plan your own vacation.

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When to visit

The date for your visit to Universal Orlando may not be entirely up to you.

If you're traveling with school-age children, you're likely locked into visiting during school vacations, long weekends and summer break. If that's the case, you'll probably visit Universal when it's at its busiest. That's not the end of the world, though, since there are ways to reduce the waits for lines. More on that in a minute.

You can check expected crowd levels at crowd calendars like the ones at Undercover Tourist, Touringplans or Orlando Informer .

The slower times of the year are Labor Day through the first two weeks of November (before Thanksgiving) and the first two weeks of December (before the holiday rush). Note, though, that if you visit close to Halloween, it will be busier because of Universal's Halloween Horror Nights .

Most of January, except for the first week, is also relatively quiet, as is the first week of February. But then it gets crazy with spring breakers. Crowds thin out a bit after Easter and through May, then ramp up again for the summertime. June, July and August are always busy. Always. And, as an added bonus, it's extremely hot.

For our first visit in a zillion years, I picked a quiet time in early November so any planning blunders on my part would be minimized by the lack of intense crowds.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Orlando

Where to stay during a Universal Orlando vacation

Once you've ironed out when you plan to visit Universal, you'll want to determine where to stay.

You have a ton of options, from hotels right on Universal property and nearby points hotels to rental homes and Airbnbs . There are so many choices that TPG wrote an entire guide to choosing the best Universal Orlando hotel for your trip .

Let's recap the high points here.

Benefits of Universal hotels

If you only have a few days to explore Universal and don't mind the cost, an on-site property may be your best bet. That's because guests of all Universal hotels receive early entry into the parks for specific attractions.

Which parks open for early admission vary by day and only certain attractions are available. However, they tend to be the popular rides with lines that grow once the gates open to regular parkgoers. There's a helpful page on the Universal site to figure out what's available to on-site hotel guests. With some rides in each of the two parks available, that should also help spread out the crowds just a bit.

It's a nice freebie, and it's the best strategy if you have your heart set on riding Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure without spending hours in line. Currently, this ride does not participate in Universal's Express Pass skip-the-line program.

If you stay in one of Universal's on-site hotels, you can take advantage of the park's complimentary transportation options to get between CityWalk, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and your hotel.

Some hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel , Loews Royal Pacific Resort , Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort offer complimentary boat shuttles.

Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort , Universal's Aventura Hotel and the above-mentioned hotels have peaceful walking paths and all resorts, including Universal's budget-friendly Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites, have complimentary shuttle buses.

The downside of staying at a Universal hotel is often the price. Rack rates are usually relatively high, though Universal's Endless Summer Resort — Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites — have rates that start at $91 per night on off-peak dates.

The mid-tier resorts, Aventura and Cabana Bay, start at closer to $130 per night.

Related: How to use points to save money at Universal Orlando

But if you prefer to stay at one of Universal's top-end Premier hotels (Royal Pacific, Hard Rock or Portofino Bay), you're probably looking at starting rates around $325 per night. However, you'll also get complimentary Universal Express skip-the-line passes for every guest staying in your room.

We'll explain that in more detail down below, but it's a huge timesaver and may be worth the extra per-night cost of staying on-site.

If you have The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum® Card from American Express , a great way to maximize a stay at Loews Portofino Bay is to book via the Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts collection .

This will get you not only the Express Passes for all guests of that hotel but also full daily breakfast for two, a $100 property credit, late 4 p.m. checkout and more.

Staying off-site

Universal is surrounded by plenty of points hotels, so if you'd prefer to stay off-site — on points or cash — you can easily do so. Some of TPG's favorite nearby points hotels are even within walking distance of Universal.

Related: Splash into fun: The 14 best hotel pools in Orlando

Here are a few points hotels within walking distance of Universal:

• Hyatt Place Across From Universal Orlando Resort (Category 2, from 6,500 World of Hyatt points per night).
• Hyatt House Across From Universal Resort (Category 3, from 9,000 World of Hyatt points per night).
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando (Around 30,0000 Hilton Honors points per night).

And some great points hotels that are just a short drive away:

• Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress (Category 4, from 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night).
• Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld (From 34,000 Marriott points per night on standard dates).
• The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes (From 52,000 Marriott points per night on standard dates).
• JW Marriott Grande Lakes (From 40,000 Marriott points per night on standard dates).
• Hilton Orlando (40,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night).
• Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek (40,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night).
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando (63,000 to 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night).

Related: Choosing the best Universal Orlando hotel for your trip

All about Universal tickets

Visitors have a lot of options when it comes to buying Universal tickets, from the type of ticket to how you'll pay for them. Here's the skinny.

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT UNIVERSAL VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S THEME PARK BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Universal ticket types

There's a variety of ticket types at Universal Orlando. You can buy tickets that get you into one, two or three theme parks (i.e., Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay water park).

You can purchase tickets for one, two, three, four or five days. The cheapest tickets allow access to one park per day. So, if you start your day at Universal Studios, you can't use the same ticket to get into Islands of Adventure in the afternoon. You're limited to one park per day. This sounds good but isn't always a great choice.

Alternatively, you can buy the pricier Park-to-Park tickets that allow you to bop between the theme parks as you wish. These tickets may be more expensive, but they give you the greatest amount of freedom to visit more than one park on the same day.

Related: From Butterbeer to magic wands: Everything you need to know about Universal Orlando's Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express between Hogsmeade Station and Kings Cross Station, you need a Park-to-Park ticket or an Annual/Seasonal Pass.

There's no way around that requirement since Hogsmeade Station is in Islands of Adventure and Kings Cross Station is in Universal Studios. Basically, Universal's got you cornered on this one.

If you're going to visit for more than a couple of days or potentially twice in 12 months, consider a Universal annual pass .

When I planned our trip, Universal was running a promotion that would have given us extra days in the parks for free. But when I crunched the numbers, a Florida resident annual pass was only $8 per ticket more expensive than the tickets for one trip, so we went with the annual pass.

Buying direct from Universal

Universal Orlando almost always has ticket specials on its website. Read the options carefully to see if any of the promotions make sense for you. The special may throw in a free day at the park(s), an Express Pass or discounted admission to the Volcano Bay water park .

Related: How to get the most out of one day at Universal Orlando

Buying tickets from other vendors

You can also buy tickets from reputable vendors like Undercover Tourist . What's great about Undercover Tourist is that it often has some older tickets available so when prices increase each year, you can often still buy a cheaper ticket from them.

It's worth bookmarking their site to comparison shop. Purchases from Undercover Tourist code as travel for the purposes of using a travel credit card or earning extra points.

Related: Best credit cards to use for Universal Studios

And although you can't typically purchase stand-alone Universal tickets at Costco, Costco Travel does sell Universal vacation packages that include tickets and on-site hotel nights.

You'll even get a Costco Shop Card after your visit. Check out pricing for your dates to see if it represents a better deal versus booking through other methods.

Using points to buy Universal tickets

Historically, it was possible to use Chase Ultimate Rewards and Citi ThankYou points to purchase your Universal Orlando theme park admission , though our most recent searches didn't turn up any availability.

Upgrade to skip the lines

Like so many amusement parks around the world that have skip-the-line passes , Universal has its own version called Universal Express. There are a few ways you can get Universal Express passes.

Related: Is Universal's Express Pass worth it? TPG tested how much time it really saves you in line

The best way is often to get it included in your stay, as mentioned above. Guests staying at any of the three top-of-the-line Universal Premier hotels — Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort — get Universal Express Unlimited for free as registered guests.

This is huge as the starting cost if purchased separately is more than $100 per day, per person. For a family of four, getting it with your room rate is almost certainly a better deal than buying it.

Note: The Premier level of the Universal annual pass includes Express Pass access beginning at 4 p.m.

Another option is to simply buy an Express Pass when you need it. How much you pay depends on the type of pass you buy and when you visit Universal, as passes cost more when crowd levels are high. Here are the three types of Express Passes you can buy:

Universal Express: This is the base version of the skip-the-queue pass. It allows you to skip the regular line one time per participating ride at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks. Prices start at $79.99 per person, per day for one park and go up from there — sometimes as high as $279.99 per day.

Universal Express Unlimited: The unlimited pass lets you skip the regular lines at participating rides as many times as you wish at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Passes for that privilege start at $109.99 per person, per day. Pricing for the unlimited passes seems to be running about $30 more per day than the normal express passes, which may make them the better value (assuming you can afford a second mortgage).

Volcano Bay Express: This pass is solely for use at Volcano Bay water park, where it allows you to skip the regular line one time per participating ride. The pass starts at $19.99 per person, per day, but you won't find that rate very often.

Participating rides and attractions are subject to change, so it's best to consult Universal Orlando's website before your visit.

When I visited, just about every ride we wanted was included in the Universal Express Unlimited, with the exception of Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

Hagrid's is an incredible ride that has also seen some incredible wait times since opening. Alas, unless you purchase a VIP tour, your anticipation of rides that aren't included in Universal Express like Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure will be rivaled only by your time waiting in line.

Take a VIP tour

Another way to avoid the lines is to take a VIP tour. There are small group and private VIP tours at Universal and both will help you cut the line.

Summer Hull, a director at TPG, took her family on a private VIP experience at Universal and it included walk-on ride access during the tour, as well as Express Passes and dining credit after the official tour was over.

A private tour will cost a few thousand dollars for the day for your group, but small group VIP experiences can be much less expensive, starting at less than $200 per person.

The primary difference between the two tours is the amount of access. The group tours are obviously less private but also only guarantee that you'll experience front-of-the-line access for eight to 10 rides. A private VIP tour is charged by the hour and operates at a faster or slower pace as you prefer.

Whether you decide to purchase an Express Pass or take a VIP tour will likely be determined by how crowded the park is during your visit, as well as your budget.

If it's off-season, you may be able to get away without a skip-the-line pass. But if you're visiting during a holiday week or school vacation, be prepared for long lines without a pass. On those dates, having an Express Pass will allow you to ride more attractions in less time.

Universal's child-swap policy

If you travel as a family, you know that not everyone will want to go on every ride. And some of your kids may not yet be old or tall enough to ride some attractions that your other kids are dying to try.

Universal solves the problem of the entire family having to choose between experiencing a ride or not with its child-swap program.

In fact, Universal's child swap is the best in the business as there are (air-conditioned) waiting areas in some key attractions. Most even have televisions showing whichever movie the attraction is based on.

This allows one member of your party to watch over small children while the rest of the gang waits in line and rides. Then you can swap places so the other member can enjoy the ride too, without another long wait. Just ask the attraction attendant to point you toward the designated waiting spots.

What's at Universal Orlando?

Although it's not as large ( yet ) as Walt Disney World , Universal Orlando has plenty for your family to see and do for several days. There are two theme parks, a water park and an entertainment, dining and shopping complex.

Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk are arranged in a triangle around a small lake. The Volcano Bay water park is separated a bit from these three destinations.

Universal Studios

One of Universal's two theme parks, Universal Studios has eight sections. You enter through an impressive arch and, if you walk straight, are immediately in Production Central with attractions like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Transformers: The Ride-3D.

If you take a right after you enter the park, you're in Hollywood, where you'll find the NBC Media Center, Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show, the Bourne Stuntacular and the Character Party Zone.

A lot of the attractions in both Production Central and Hollywood are better saved for when the day starts getting hot. You get to sit in blissful air-conditioning at these shows: Minion Mayhem, the Bourne Stuntacular and the Horror Make-Up Show.

If you've got little kids, turn right upon entry and walk through Hollywood so you can start immediately at Woody Woodpecker's KidZone.

From there, enjoy Springfield: Home of the Simpsons. I'm no kid, but I loved Kang & Kodos' Twirl 'n' Hurl ride!

If your kids are older, bypass those kid-centric areas and make Men in Black Alien Attack in World Expo your first ride of the day. After you ride, you are perfectly positioned to enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley first thing in the morning.

Get in line for Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts before the line gets too long.

Then, explore Ollivanders and Gringotts Money Exchange and see a few shows (we saw The Tales of Beedle the Bard and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees). Kids love talking with Stan and the Knight Bus conductor. Don't miss a meal at the Leaky Cauldron or ice cream at Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour.

If you have a Park-to-Park ticket, you can decide to take the Hogwarts Express from Kings Cross Station (next to Leicester Square) to Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure.

If you have a one-park ticket, you won't be able to ride the Hogwarts Express and will instead continue your exploration of Universal Studios.

As you depart The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley, keep to the right to enter San Francisco.

If you didn't opt for a butterbeer in Hogwarts, this is a fantastic spot to stop for lunch or a snack since most of what you'll find here are restaurants, including the city's famous seafood restaurant, Lombard's. There is also one ride here: Fast & Furious — Supercharged.

From San Francisco, continue on to New York, where you don't want to miss Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon (another great get-out-of-the-heat, rest-your-feet experience) and Revenge of the Mummy. Hang around, too, to see some shows like the Blues Brothers or Marilyn & the Diamond Bellas.

Once you've had your fill of the Big Apple, continue back along the main thoroughfare to Production Central and Hollywood, if you skipped those in the morning.

In the evening, don't miss Universal Studios' nighttime extravaganza. Called the Cinematic Celebration and centered at the theme park's lagoon, it combines music, films, water and light.

You can also see a daytime fountain and music show at this same lagoon. Check the daily program or official Universal Orlando app for times.

Islands of Adventure

The second Universal theme park is Islands of Adventure. Your best call here is to arrive as soon as the gates open and walk quickly to Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or Jurassic World VelociCoaster. Both are at the opposite end of the park from the entry gates, so it will be a walk but enjoying the busiest rides in the park without crushing crowds is worth it.

If roller coasters aren't your thing (and you aren't prone to motion sickness), get in line instead to see Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. This is where you'll ride a broomstick and it really is a fantastic attraction.

After that, ride Flight of the Hippogriff, a gentler roller coaster. (If you can ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney World, Flight of the Hippogriff will be no big deal). Or you can simply walk around Hogsmeade for some fun photos without throngs of other guests in the background.

After you've done the ride, explore Hogsmeade itself and see some shows (we saw the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Spirit Rally) and watch a wand choose a wizard at Ollivanders (if you didn't see the same experience at Diagon Alley already).

Grab a butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks or adjacent Hog's Head and then continue on to the other lands of Islands of Adventure.

When you leave The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can go in either direction. For our purposes, let's pretend you walk to Jurassic Park first. Here you'll visit Camp Jurassic where kids will enjoy the Pteranodon Flyers. You can also take the Jurassic Park River Adventure and have a "raptor encounter."

There are plenty of places to pick up fast food here, from pizza and ribs to burgers and nachos.

Next up, you can ride Skull Island: Reign of Kong before hitting Toon Lagoon, where your kids can cool off in some sprinklers, or you can all ride Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls flume (warning: you will get very wet).

As you dry off from that heart-pounding experience, head to Marvel Super Hero Island, where you can meet Marvel characters and ride The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and The Incredible Hulk Coaster (it's an intense one).

If you have some daredevils in the family — or Marvel fans — you'll spend a good amount of time here.

Beyond the Incredible Hulk coaster is the entrance to the park. Continue from there to Seuss Landing.

Even though we didn't have any kids in tow, we still enjoyed walking through this bright and cheery land and we even rode the Caro-Seuss-el merry-go-round and The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride.

There's also a Seuss character zone and plenty of other rides and attractions that are specifically designed for the little ones.

The Last Continent is just beyond Seuss Landing. There's a neat interactive experience called The Mystic Fountain. Seriously, start talking to it and you'll be mesmerized.

You can also take on Poseidon's Fury in a special-effects guided tour or stop to dine on Mediterranean-style food at Doc Sugrue's Kebab House, Fire Eater's Grill or Mythos Restaurant.

Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay is Universal's water park. This park can close because of chilly weather or during lightning storms. Check Universal's schedule to see if it is slated to be open during your visit. Volcano Bay has everything you'd expect of an exceptional water park, like Waturi Beach with a fantastic lagoon for swimming and Kopiko Wai Winding River.

There are also some incredible waterslides and drops and the Ko'okiri Body Plunge that features a 70-degree fall through a drop door and 125 feet of what Universal calls "white-knuckle fun."

Thrillseekers love the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, where you plunge right through a waterfall, and TeAwa The Fearless River whitewater ride through churning rapids and waves.

COVID-19 restrictions are pretty limited at Volcano Bay. Masks are required when entering and exiting the park, as well as in restaurants (when you're not actively eating) and in retail locations. They're not permitted on the water rides themselves.

As if two theme parks and a massive water park weren't enough, Universal also offers CityWalk.

This complex of restaurants, shops and clubs is open during the day, but it really heats up at night with free self-parking after 6 p.m. You don't need tickets to enter, but you can buy tickets for shows at the Hard Rock Cafe.

You'll also find restaurants such as Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, Bob Marley — A Tribute to Freedom and Pat O'Brien's that offer live (and recorded) music. There's a movie theater (free parking with the purchase of two movie matinee tickets), karaoke club (CityWalk's Rising Star), miniature golf and the Red Coconut Club and The Groove for dancing.

There are plenty of spots to dine too. You can grab snacks like pizza, hotdogs and Panda Express Chinese food and sweets from Voodoo Doughnuts.

Or you can have a more substantial meal at restaurants like the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, NBC Sports Grill & Brew, VIVO Italian Kitchen, The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and more.

We had a fantastic dinner at Bigfire, where the pork chop was the juiciest I've ever eaten.

Universal's boat shuttles that take you back to its resorts are right at CityWalk so it's convenient to spend the day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure and then have dinner at CityWalk and go shopping before heading back to your hotel for the night.

And a third park coming …

Universal Orlando announced a new theme park, a third gate at Universal Orlando, back in 2019. A massive 750-acre tract of land located not far from the two existing theme parks was to be the site for the new park.

Dubbed Epic Universe , the new park is rumored to house franchises like Fantastic Beasts, a Harry Potter spin-off, Super Nintendo World and Universal Classic Monsters. Construction was delayed due to the pandemic, but the new park is on track to open sometime in the summer of 2025.

The best credit cards to use at Universal

Now we get to a hot topic for points-and-miles travelers who are planning a trip to Universal Orlando. Which credit card should you use? That depends.

For example, how and where you purchase your theme park tickets will dictate how the charge will be coded. Historically speaking, Universal theme park tickets and VIP tours purchased directly from Universal have coded as "entertainment."

However, tickets purchased at an on-site Universal hotel and charged to the hotel have coded as "travel." Depending on how you purchase your ticket, you'll want to select either a card that rewards you for entertainment spend or travel purchases.

If you think your purchase will code as entertainment, two good credit card options are:

• Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card — 4% cash back.

If, however, you know your charge will code as travel, you're better off using:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve — 3 points per dollar spent.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card — 2 points per dollar spent.
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card — 2 points per every dollar spent.

The information for the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Bottom line

Universal is packed with rides, attractions, character meet-and-greets and more. Yet it's compact enough for you to cover a lot of ground in just a few days.

Universal Orlando can be a pricey but incredible adventure for your family. If it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience you're seeking, you may be best waiting until the pandemic restrictions are lifted.

However, if you're more "go with the flow," Universal Orlando has plenty to offer for fans of Harry Potter, Marvel and so much more.

Additional reporting by Edward Pizzarello.

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Best theme parks in orlando, florida – an introductory guide for beginners.

Every Theme Park in Orlando & Beyond Explained

Orlando, central Florida, is best known for being a hot spot for theme park lovers – in fact, it’s pretty fairly earned the title of Theme Park Capital of the World.

Most are no doubt familiar with Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando . However, many don’t know that Orlando is home to more than a dozen different amusement parks, making it one of the most entertaining spots in the United States for families and people of all ages.

Today we’re sharing with you all the best theme parks you can visit in the Orlando area and what you can expect when planning a family trip to Orlando.

This post is part of our series Discover the USA

Don’t forget Orlando isn’t JUST theme parks! We share more non-theme park family experiences over here , too, so you can balance out your trip to the theme-park capital with some fun family day trips and nature experiences.

1. Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando is made up of four theme parks and two water parks.

Magic Kingdom: Magic Kingdom is Disney’s main theme park and features classic Disney films, including the main attraction, Cinderella’s Castle, as well as Aladdin, Dumbo, and more! For younger children (and those young at heart), this is the ultimate starting point for an Orlando theme parks adventure.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios: The Hollywood Studios park features Disney films such as the Marvel franchise, Star Wars, and Pixar films such as Toy Story, Cars, and more. A great mixture of shows, thrilling rides, and interactive experiences, more suited to your older tweens and teens , but still plenty here that younger kids will enjoy.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: The Animal Kingdom park is the Disney Park that features Disney films that showcase countries such as Africa and Asia. Some of the Disney films that you will see throughout the park include The Lion King, Avatar, and A Bug’s Life.

EPCOT: Epcot is known for celebrating different countries and cultures around the world. At Epcot, many rides and attractions feature characters from countries around the world, including Ratatouille and Beauty and the Beast. Look out for annual events, including the International Flower & Garden Festival, Festival of the Arts, and the International Food and Wine Festival, for added fun.

Blizzard Beach: Blizzard Beach is one of two Disney water parks that allow you to enjoy a cross between swimming and a theme park. Here you will find water slides, water tubes, relaxing lazy rivers, and much more! *Blizzard Beach is temporarily closed, but there are plans to reopen at some point.

Typhoon Lagoon: Typhoon Lagoon is the other water park on Disney property. Similar to Blizzard Beach, at Typhoon Lagoon, you will find a number of water slides, water tubes, North America’s largest wave pool, and so many other swimming and water experiences.

In addition to the theme parks, don’t miss spending some time at Disney Springs – a shopping and dining district inside Walt Disney World grounds.

One day, 1 park passes start from $109+

Traveling with young children? Don’t forget to read up on your Disney stroller rules – trust us, you’ll want a stroller for ALL Orlando theme parks, so make sure it’s size compliant.

All the Disney World parks can be exceptionally busy depending on the season. If you don’t have Genie Pass sorted well in advance, expect to do a lot of queuing. You can keep the magic alive for little ones by having a few queuing games and activities up your sleeve.

2. Universal Orlando Resort

The Universal Orlando Resort property is made up of three parks, including two theme parks and one water park.

They have similar names but different parks! Here’s how to distinguish between Universal Studios and Hollywood Studios in Orlando

Universal Studios Florida: The Universal Studios property showcases many feature films you know and love. Universal Studios Florida features everything from classics such as E.T., The Simpsons, and Men in Black to more modern films, including the Fast & Furious franchise and the Minions movies.

From street shows to some of the best roller coasters in Orlando, this is a firm favorite with older kids and thrill-seekers, though there are still plenty of rides that appeal to kids of all ages, and sections made especially for toddlers and young children.

Universal’s Island of Adventure: The Island of Adventure side of the park features more of the “adventurous” movies such as Jurassic Park and the Marvel franchise such as Spiderman and the Incredible Hulk.

Another great choice for tweens and teens , and thrilling ride fans with its heady mix of roller coasters and water-based rides .

Wizarding World of Harry Potter: While the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is not a completely separate park, it is actually spread between both Universal Studios Florida and the Island of Adventure parks.

Because it is such a feature spot of the property, we felt like it needed its own feature. Here, you will be transported into the world of the Harry Potter books and films and get the full experience with everything from enjoying the food and beverages you know from Harry Potter in Diagon Alley to embarking on adventures in the various rides and attractions throughout the Wizarding World.

Universal’s Volcano Bay: Volcano Bay is Universal’s waterpark. Here, they have a number of rides and attractions featuring water, including water slides, a water roller coaster, swimming pools, and more!

Connecting the two main theme parks is Universal’s City Walk, also packed with dining options and entertainment. It can be worth an evening visit itself, even if you’re not visiting the Universal theme parks.

Day tickets for a single park start from $114+

You can find our complete beginner’s guide to Universal over here – the perfect starting point for planning a trip to Universal Studios Orlando. You may also want to check out our guide to all the hotels in Orlando with Universal Shuttle services and our guide for distinguishing between entertainment and attractions at Universal Studios vs Islands of Adventure if you’re short on time and can only visit one.

3. SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld combines thrilling theme park rides with the world of the Ocean. SeaWorld Orlando is the perfect place to enjoy animal experiences such as the Dolphin Cove, the Jewel of the Sea Aquarium, the Manta Aquarium, and also fun rides and attractions such as Mako, Manta, and the Journey to Atlantis.

SeaWorld has broad appeal across age groups from tots to teens making it a good choice for a large family group.

Single-day tickets start from $124.99+

4. Aquatica

If you enjoy swimming, thrilling water rides, and cooling off in the water, Aquatica is a great place to visit.

Aquatica is one of Orlando’s premier water parks, offering something for everyone, whether you want to relax and enjoy the sun or splash into the water. They have a wide variety of slides and pools to enjoy as well as a variety of cabanas and loungers for relaxing.

Single-day tickets start from $94.99+

5. Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with animals of the sea. Not only do you get to see the animals in action, but you can also actually get in the water and swim and frolic with them side by side.

Here you can swim with dolphins, and sharks, feed rays, and so many more incredible animal encounters.

Day resort admission starts from $224.00+, plus look for combo packages with SeaWorld, Aquatica, and Busch Gardens

6. LEGOLAND Florida

LEGO lovers will absolutely LOVE LEGOLAND Florida . Legoland is a theme park that includes a variety of rides and attractions, and all over the park, you will find the most incredible sculptures and works of art made entirely of Legos.

LEGOLAND Florida consists of a theme park, waterpark, and on-site hotels and resorts for a complete family vacation. LEGOLAND can be found in Winter Haven, around an hour south of Orlando.

You can also find the brand new Peppa Pig theme park adjacent to LEGOLAND (more coming soon!). Nostalgia buffs might be surprised to know that one of central Florida’s original attractions, Cypress Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden, can be found inside LEGOLAND!

Day tickets to LEGOLAND start from $104.99+ for adults and $84.99+ for kids . 3-day multi-park passes start from $144.99+

7. Gatorland

Florida is famous for its gators! At Gatorland, you will have the chance to see alligators of all kinds ranging from babies to full-grown gators up to 14 feet long! In addition to seeing gators, you can also enjoy fun activities such as zip lining, off-roading, live shows, feeding times and a petting zoo.

If you’re looking for a change from the theme park rides and want to get closer to nature in Florida, this is the park for you. It’s ideal for your under 10’s and its smaller size makes it easy to manage in half a day.

Adult day tickets start from $32.99+ and children $31.99+

8. ICON Park & The Wheel

ICON Park is a park that offers all of your entertainment needs in one spot, including restaurants, shopping, rides, and attractions for fun!

Located on International Drive, ICON Park includes the famous Madame Tussauds Orlando wax museum, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, In The Game, 7D Motion Theater, Museum of Illusions, and the toddler-sized Pearl Express Train.

And of course, you can’t leave ICON Park without riding the famous Ferris Wheel.

An ICON Parks Play Pass for all 7 attractions is $74.99+ per person .

9. Fun Spot America

How could you not want to go to a place called “ Fun Spot America ”? This park is just that, a fun spot! Here you will find a variety of fun amusement rides such as the Firecracker, the Freedom Flyer, and the Liberty Swing.

There are two locations in Orlando and Kissimmee, with day passes starting from $54.99+ per person .

10. Busch Gardens Tampa

Whist technically not in Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa is just a short drive away for a day of fun (less than 2 hours – traffic dependent!).

Busch Gardens is a wildlife safari theme park. Enjoy a number of thrilling coasters, including Cheetah Hunt, SheiKra, and Kumba, or take an excellent safari tour to see the beautiful animals and exotic birds in their habitats.

Tickets start from $124.99+

Learn more about all the fun things to do in Tampa, FL with kids

Orlando Theme Parks Map

Use this map to help plot your journey and find the best accommodation options near to your favorite Orlando theme parks.

Best Orlando Theme Parks by Age

It comes down to age groups and thrill levels, which theme parks may interest families the most. From our personal experience from being swinging singles adults through to having grandparents , toddlers , and teens in Orlando , we think these are the best for each age group to consider:

• Toddlers – Magic Kingdom, Peppa Pig, Animal Kingdom, Gatorland
• Pre-schoolers to Elementary School Age – SeaWorld, Legoland
• Tweens – Universal Studios, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT
• Teens – Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Aquatica, Hollywood Studios
• Water Park-lovers – Aquatica, Volcano Bay, Typhoon Lagoon
• Grandparents & Non-thrill-seekers ! – EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, ICON Park, Animal Kingdom

Your taste could, of course, be entirely different, or with a multi-age and multigeneration group , you might need to make quite a few compromises. It’s your Orlando vacation, so the choice is entirely up to you.

Budgeting Your Trip to Orlando

We’re not going to lie; an Orlando theme park adventure is far from the cheapest vacation you can take with your family. Just a few money-saving tips for theme parks:

• Do plan a long way out – top hotels onsite at the resorts can sell out well in advance; the sooner you book, the more available choices within your budget (and time to save!)
• Visit during low-season if at all possible; you’re more likely to find value package deals
• Write out your dream list, then see what parks and hotels can be packaged together; accept that you are unlikely to be able to “see and do it all” in one trip to Orlando
• Look for hotels that offer free shuttles or can easily access the I-Trolley to save on taxis and hire cars (we talk more about Orlando hotels that offer shuttles to the theme parks here – otherwise, you’ll pay A LOT for parking at Disney , and a fairly similar daily amount for parking at Universal
• Not planning to go to a theme park every day? Larger families and groups should look for rental properties in Orlando instead of hotels and resorts

+ Beware of the tax! All theme park tickets are subject to 6.5% local sales tax. Resorts and Hotels are also subject to a 6% tax. You’ll need to add this to your Orlando theme parks budget.

Orlando has so much family fun to offer. Unless you are planning to spend a significant amount of time there, you probably won’t be able to visit all of the theme parks in the area. You will need to pick and choose, according to your time and budget, as well as your kids’ ages and interests, just how many of these theme parks you can fit in one trip.

We hope this guide has provided you with a little insight on what to expect at each and plan your trip to Florida around your family’s interests.

More Family Things to do in Florida

The family fun in Florida doesn’t end at the theme parks; you may also be interested in:

• The Best Beaches near Orlando
• Florida’s Most Beautiful Islands and Keys
• Top Family Beaches in Florida
• Enjoy a Weekend Getaway In Sarasota With Kids
• Exploring Downtown Miami
• Our Unexpected Florida Family Highlights

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13 Best Theme Parks in Orlando: Your Gateway to Magic & Fun!

• Updated on March 12, 2024
• Best Locations
• Florida , Orlando

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Introduction: orlando's world of wonders, a preview of the ultimate amusement adventure.

Welcome to Orlando’s World of Wonders, a place teeming with enchantment, excitement, and experiences that command global attention. This Floridian city is renowned not just for its sunshine but also for a magical collection of Theme Parks in Orlando that turn fantasy into reality.

Here, they can immerse themselves in different worlds, from the cinematic streets of Hollywood to the mythical realms of wizards and warriors.

The Crown Jewels of Orlando

1. walt disney world resort: four worlds in one.

Dive into the heart of the magic at Walt Disney World Resort , a massive wonderland that’s truly four worlds packed into one. Here, you get the unique experience of strolling through the iconic Cinderella Castle, blasting off into space, or even going on a safari with real animals.

With its mix of classic attractions, beloved characters, and continuous innovation, there’s always something new to discover.

• Magic Kingdom Park: Where fairytale dreams come to life for kids of all ages.
• EPCOT: A celebration of technology, innovation, and international cultures.
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Action takes the stage with glitz and glamour.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: A wild adventure among exotic wildlife and prehistoric giants.

Top 5 Features:

• Iconic Cinderella Castle and parades
• Cultural experiences at World Showcase in EPCOT
• Movie magic with rides like Slinky Dog Dash
• Thrilling wildlife encounters
• Galactic experiences at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Five Benefits:

• Wide variety of attractions suited for all ages
• Immersive storytelling and theming
• State-of-the-art technology in rides and shows
• Efficient transportation system within the resort
• Abundant dining options catering to every taste and dietary need
• The size of the resort can be overwhelming to navigate
• Peak season means large crowds and long wait times
• Families, film enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the quintessential Disney magic.

2. Universal Orlando Resort: Cinematic Splendor & Thrills

Step into the realm of big-screen legends at Universal Orlando Resort , where they can mingle with Minions, swing through New York with Spider-Man, and sip butterbeer in Diagon Alley. It’s a place where thrills meet spills and cinematic moments are brought to life through cutting-edge attractions and live shows.

Ride the movies, face villains, and witness stunt spectaculars in a park designed for fans of all things film and adventure.

• Universal Studios Florida: Experience movie magic on rides like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D.
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure: Home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and action-packed attractions.
• Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park: A tropical paradise with exhilarating water rides.
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure
• Exhilarating rides like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• Themed dining experiences, such as The Leaky Cauldron
• Family-friendly attractions like E.T. Adventure and The Simpsons Ride
• Seasonal events, including Halloween Horror Nights and Mardi Gras celebrations
• An immersive theme park experience with attractions for all ages
• Less time traveling between parks due to proximity
• Thrilling rides and interactive shows for movie buffs
• Various dining options, from quick-service to sit-down restaurants
• Express Pass options are available to skip regular lines
• Some attractions may have height restrictions
• Higher crowd levels during special events and peak seasons
• Movie enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and families looking for diverse entertainment.

Want to add some extra fun to your Orlando trip? Take a swing at the exciting miniature golf courses!

Navigating the Kingdoms of Fantasy and Discovery

3. the enchantment of magic kingdom park.

Magic Kingdom Park stands as a symbol of pure joy and childhood wonder. It’s where enchanting stories come alive around each corner, and dreams take flight.

With timeless classics like It’s a Small World and the hauntingly fun Haunted Mansion, Magic Kingdom transcends generations, connecting kids with parents and grandparents through shared memories brimming with pixie dust.

• Nostalgia Factor: Experience the joy of long-time favorite attractions and the excitement of watching new generations revel in the magic.
• New Attractions: As Magic Kingdom continues to evolve, keep an eye out for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and updates to beloved shows like the Country Bear Jamboree.
• Iconic attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean
• The classic Cinderella Castle, with its nightly fireworks show
• Character meet and greets across storybook settings
• Interactive queues and attractions designed for all ages
• Seasonal events such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
• A palpable sense of magic and wonder
• A perfect blend of nostalgic rides and new experiences
• Diverse entertainment options, including parades and live shows
• Photopass services to capture and cherish magical moments
• Accessibility and convenience for guests of all abilities
• It can get exceptionally crowded, especially during holidays and special events.
• Some may find it challenging to experience all rides in one day without proper planning.
• Guests looking for timeless Disney magic, those interested in reliving cherished childhood memories, and families eager to create new ones.

Also, be sure to check out the historical sites in Orlando .

4. Exploring the Innovations at Epcot

Epcot is a unique destination within Walt Disney World Resort, blending a bright future with the diverse cultures of our world. It’s a place of discovery where they can marvel at technological advances and celebrate international camaraderie.

Epcot invites guests to witness human achievement and natural wonders, offering a learning experience like no other within its two distinct realms: Future World and World Showcase.

• Educational Excursions: Epcot’s attractions seamlessly combine fun with learning across fields such as oceanography, space travel, and cultural arts.
• New Developments for 2024: Gear up for ‘Luminous The Symphony of Us,’ a spectacular fireworks display, and the eagerly awaited opening of World Celebration.
• Spaceship Earth, the park’s geodesic sphere and ride chronicling human progress
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends offers an underwater exploration
• World Showcase, providing cultural experiences from 11 different countries
• Cutting-edge attractions like Test Track and Mission: SPACE
• Seasonal festivals like the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
• Engaging and educational attractions for every age group
• Vibrant and varied dining options flavored with international cuisine
• Calmer atmosphere compared to other theme parks, ideal for a relaxed visit
• Innovative rides that showcase technology and science
• Frequent cultural festivals add unique experiences throughout the year
• Some attractions may be too educational for those seeking pure thrills
• A large scale, the park requires significant walking to explore it fully
• Travelers passionate about science, technology, and world cultures , as well as those who enjoy a more laid-back theme park atmosphere.

Casting Spells with Harry Potter and Friends

5. the wizarding world awaits at universal's islands of adventure.

Magic is in the air at Universal’s Islands of Adventure , where The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade takes fans on an immersive journey into the beloved universe of J.K. Rowling’s creation.

From the Hogwarts Express to the forbidden forests and beyond, visitors become part of the story as they engage with the spells, creatures, and epic adventures of the Harry Potter franchise.

• Immersive Experiences: Revel in the highly detailed Hogsmeade village, where every shop and alley feels like it jumped straight from the pages of the books.
• Iconic Rides: Feel the thrills of The Flight of the Hippogriff roller coaster and the groundbreaking Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction.
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a magical adventure through Hogwarts Castle
• Hogsmeade village, replete with themed shops like Honeydukes and Ollivanders
• The thrilling Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
• The Hogwarts Express ride, connecting Universal’s Islands of Adventure to Universal Studios Florida
• Interactive wand experiences that let guests cast their own spells throughout the park
• A paradise for Harry Potter fans with intricate attention to detail
• Multiple attractions catering to varied thrill levels and ages
• Authentic Potter-themed food and drink , including Butterbeer
• Mythical creatures and beloved characters brought to life
• Easy park-to-park access to expand the magical experience
• It can be quite crowded , especially in the Harry Potter areas
• May have longer wait times due to the popularity of the attractions
• Harry Potter enthusiasts, families looking for a mix of engaging storytelling and adventure, and anyone with a penchant for fantasy and wonder.

Make sure to include a visit to Disney World Parks in your Orlando itinerary.

6. Behind the Scenes at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida offers an all-access pass to the behind-the-scenes world of movie-making and heart-pounding action. This park celebrates the magic of cinema with attractions and live shows based on legendary films and TV shows .

For those who’ve ever dreamed of stepping onto a film set or starring in their adventure, Universal Studios Florida rolls out the red carpet to turn spectators into participants in the action.

• Thrilling Adventures: Engage in high-speed chases on attractions like Fast & Furious – Supercharged or battle alongside Optimus Prime on TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D.
• Halloween Extravaganza: Each fall, Halloween Horror Nights brings the ultimate scare with haunted houses, chilling street performances, and eerie live entertainment.
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, with the groundbreaking Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, a roller coaster that lets guests choose their own soundtrack
• The immersive Simpsons Ride through Krustyland
• The authentic MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack experience
• A real working film studio atmosphere that captures the essence of Hollywood
• Attractions that appeal to a wide range of ages and interests
• Incredible attention to detail in theming and design
• Engaging live shows like The Blues Brothers Show
• Seasonal events add a fresh twist to the experience
• Dining options that take inspiration from classic films and hit television shows
• Some attractions may have wait times that can test one’s patience
• Intense Florida heat can be a challenge while waiting for outdoor attractions
• Film aficionados, theme park veterans looking for a mix of classic and innovative rides, and families with a flare for cinematic adventure.

Meeting Beloved Characters & Experiencing Future Favorites

7. character encounters and fantasy at disney's hollywood studios.

Rediscover the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , where they can embrace the essence of entertainment. It’s a park that celebrates the silver screen, animation, and the sheer joy of storytelling.

Here, they are not mere observers but leading characters in a narrative filled with plot twists, heroics, and the magic of Tinseltown.

• Star-Studded Adventures: Board the Millennium Falcon at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge or shrink down to the size of a toy in Toy Story Land.
• Entertainment Extravaganza: Live shows such as “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage” and “Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!” bring the action up close and personal.
• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a fully immersive land with attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
• Toy Story Land, where they can take a spin on Alien Swirling Saucers or zip along on Slinky Dog Dash
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is a classic thrill ride with a Hollywood twist
• The new for 2024 Star Tours attraction, featuring fresh adventures
• A host of live entertainment options, including the beloved For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration
• High-quality, immersive attractions that cater to die-hard fans and casual visitors alike
• Abundance of character meet-and-greet opportunities for memorable photos
• Diverse dining experiences, from quick snacks to themed sit-down meals
• Entertainment options that span from Broadway-style shows to interactive exhibits
• Kid-friendly areas that keep the whole family engaged and entertained
• Popular attractions often command long wait times , especially in Star Wars and Toy Story-themed areas.
• The concentrated popularity of certain areas may lead to congestion
• Star Wars and Pixar enthusiasts, families with children, and anyone with a love for the golden era of movies and the thrills of modern blockbusters.

Clip-On Baseball Cap Holder

8. animal adventures at disney's animal kingdom park.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park is a celebration of nature and conservation, where one can embark on globetrotting adventures and get up close with wildlife from around the world.

This park deftly blends the thrills of an amusement park with the intrigue of a zoo, offering a day filled with exploration , learning, and discovery.

• Wilderness Explorer!: Young adventurers can join the Wilderness Explorers program, exploring the park while earning nature-themed badges.
• The Heartbeats of Nature: With natural habitats and a focus on animal well-being, Animal Kingdom brings majestic creatures from various continents into the limelight.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris, an expedition through the African savanna filled with exotic animals
• Avatar Flight of Passage in Pandora — The World of Avatar, a breathtaking 3D flying simulator
• Expedition Everest, a high-speed train adventure through the Himalayan mountains
• The Tree of Life, an icon showcasing the diversity of animals with intricate carvings
• Conservation Station, where they can learn about animal care and conservation efforts
• A chance to observe animals in naturalistic environments
• Educational experiences that emphasize wildlife conservation
• Unique rides and attractions blending adventure with animal encounters
• Authentic cultural experiences through live performances and cuisine
• Photogenic backdrops ranging from lush landscapes to the extraterrestrial vistas of Pandora
• Animal sightings on safaris can be unpredictable and affected by the weather
• A larger park layout may require more walking to see all the features
• Animal lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and families looking for an enriching adventure that unites the world of animals with the magic of Disney.

Don’t forget to explore the upscale spa options in Orlando as well.

Diving Into Aquatic Escapades

9. splashing around at universal's volcano bay water theme park.

Universal’s Volcano Bay isn’t just a waterpark; it’s a water theme park that offers a splash of thrills and relaxation under the Florida sun. Centered around a massive, awe-inspiring volcano, here, visitors can experience everything from serenely floating down a lazy river to heart-pounding rides down winding water slides.

The park’s innovative TapuTapu wearable technology takes the hassle away from waiting in line so they can plunge, drift, and relax at their own pace.

• Technological Waves: The park’s unique TapuTapu wearable allows guests to hold their spot in line for slides virtually, giving them more freedom to explore.
• Tropical Paradise: Soak in the sun at Waturi Beach or lounge by the wave pool for a more laid-back experience.
• Krakatau Aqua Coaster, a thrilling water ride within the heart of the volcano
• TeAwa the Fearless River, a racing torrent river providing active floating excitement
• The towering Ko’okiri Body Plunge offers a near-vertical, adrenaline-fueled free fall
• Serene winding rivers and lushly landscaped play areas
• Abundant lounge areas and premium seating for those looking to relax
• The TapuTapu wearable reduces physical waiting times for attractions
• A variety of attractions catering to thrill-seekers and those seeking relaxation
• Beautifully themed, immersing guests in a lush, tropical environment
• Accessible attractions and amenities accommodate families and groups
• Scenic vistas and waterways create an idyllic island getaway atmosphere
• Occasionally, popular attractions may reach capacity and close their virtual lines
• During cooler periods, certain attractions might be less appealing
• Waterpark connoisseurs looking for next-level innovation, families who appreciate both action-packed slides and relaxing water features, and anyone desiring to escape into a tropical water paradise

10. SeaWorld Orlando: A Marine Life Odyssey

For all the marine life enthusiasts, SeaWorld Orlando is a deep dive into the ocean’s wonders without getting wet. At this aquatic-themed park, they can experience up-close encounters with marine animals , witness the power of killer whales at the Orca Encounter, and learn about conservation efforts.

It’s a blend of education, entertainment, and thrill rides that promise an ocean of fun.

• Touching Experiences: Hand-feed dolphins or watch penguins waddle in their chilly habitat.
• Adrenaline Rush: Take on the heart-pounding thrills of roller coasters like Mako, Manta, and Kraken.
• Encounters with dolphins , killer whales , sea lions , and more in their habitats
• Educational shows and exhibits like TurtleTrek and Shark Encounter
• Mako, the hypercoaster known for high speeds and deep dives
• The Antarctic-themed penguin habitat , Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin
• Family-friendly areas like Sesame Street Land, with attractions tailored for younger ones
• Opportunity to learn about marine life and conservation directly from experts
• A variety of rides, from intense roller coasters to gentle options for the little ones
• Live animal shows that combine entertainment with an educational message
• Dining options that feature sustainable, ocean-friendly seafood choices
• Attractions that cater to all weather conditions, offering both indoor and outdoor experiences
• Some guests may wish for more extensive animal encounters without additional fees
• Height restrictions on major thrill rides may limit options for younger children
• Animal lovers, thrill-seekers who enjoy high-speed coasters , and families looking for an educational yet entertaining theme park visit.

For the Love of LEGO and More

11. building memories at legoland florida resort.

Legoland Florida Resort is a colorful mosaic of playful adventures tailored specifically to kids between the ages of 2-12 and the young at heart who adore the timeless appeal of LEGO bricks.

This interactive park stimulates both the imagination and the sense of discovery , with over 50 rides, shows, and attractions inspired by various LEGO series.

• Brick by Brick Fun: Delve into The Lego Movie World and enjoy attractions like Masters of Flight , a flying theater ride showcasing breathtaking sights.
• Adventurous Exploration: Young explorers can go on a quest in the Land of Adventure or take a prehistoric wooden coaster ride on Coastersaurus.
• Lego Ninjago The Ride, where they can become ninjas with interactive elements
• MINILAND USA, featuring intricate LEGO reproductions of famous U.S. cities
• Duplo Valley for the smallest builders, with farm-themed attractions
• The immersive medieval LEGO Kingdoms area
• Accommodations like the Legoland Hotel with interactive LEGO themes throughout
• A theme park experience specifically designed for kids
• A variety of attractions that encourage hands-on creativity and play
• Themed areas that bring different LEGO worlds to life
• On-site accommodations with special features like in-room treasure hunts at the Pirate Island Hotel
• The chance to cool off at Legoland Water Park next door
• Through a plethora of attractions, older teens and adults may find the rides less thrilling
• During peak times, the park can become crowded with families, leading to longer wait times
• Families with young children, LEGO enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys interactive and imaginative play.

Dreaming of a Disney getaway? Explore our handpicked selection of hotels in Orlando near Disney. Book now for a magical vacation filled with unforgettable memories!

12. Cooling Off at Legoland Water Park

After a day full of discovery and LEGO-themed fun at Legoland Florida Resort, families can splash into an additional layer of excitement at Legoland Water Park . This extension of the resort offers a refreshing break with a variety of water-based attractions designed for all ages, making it the perfect place to beat Florida’s tropical heat.

• Constructive Play: At Creative Cove, they can build their very own boats and test their floating creations against the tides.
• Lazy River Relaxation: Customize a unique LEGO raft and peacefully drift along the 1000-foot-long Build-A-Raft River, a staple of the playful water park experience.
• LEGO Wave Pool, where families can enjoy gentle, rolling waves in a large pool
• Joker Soaker, a multi-level playground with slides, water cannons, and a torrential splash bucket
• Twin Chasers, where they can race down intertwining waterslides on a double tube
• Splash Out offers high-speed waterslide thrills for the more daring
• The DUPLO Splash Safari, a toddler-friendly area with shorter slides and larger-than-life DUPLO creatures
• Perfect cool-down spot with water attractions for all comfort levels
• Features encourage creativity and play, consistent with the LEGO brand
• Tons of safe and enjoyable activities for younger children
• Less waiting time with a relaxed atmosphere compared to bigger water parks
• Easy access for guests already visiting Legoland Florida Resort
• Limited thrill options for older kids and adults in search of extreme waterslide experiences
• Availability is subject to weather conditions and seasonal operation hours
• Young families seeking to combine the imaginative fun of LEGOs with the cool escape of a splash park and fans of the LEGO brand.

Also, be sure to check out our list of museums in Orlando for a dose of culture and history.

Beyond the Big Names: Additional Must-Visit Parks

13. soak up the sun at disney's blizzard beach and typhoon lagoon water parks.

Walt Disney World Resort is home to not just four major theme parks but also two water parks that promise equally enchanting experiences.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon water parks offer sun-soaked fun with a Disney touch, where water adventures await all family members.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park With its frosty theme of a ski resort turned water park, Blizzard Beach offers a melting pot of thrill slides and relaxing beaches. The park’s icon, Mount Gushmore, sets the stage for a unique snowy oasis in sunny Florida.

• Chill Thrills: Slide down the Summit Plummet, one of the tallest and fastest freefall body slides in the world.
• Family Fun: Gather everyone for a ride on the family-friendly Teamboat Springs, one of the world’s longest group whitewater raft rides .

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park At Typhoon Lagoon, they can plunge into tropical escapades within a setting shaped by the tale of a storm-tossed paradise. It features the largest outdoor wave pool in North America and offers a tranquil escape with sandy beaches.

• Surf’s Up: Catch waves in the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool or take a surfing lesson to learn from the pros.
• Coaster-like Rush: Experience the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster, a raft ride that uses powerful water jets to deliver thrilling ups and downs.

Top 5 Features for Both Parks:

• Diverse attractions with varying thrill levels
• Visually stunning themes unique to Disney
• Family-friendly atmospheres with areas designated for young kids
• Delicious dining options with a variety of quick-service restaurants
• Accessible features and free life jackets for guest safety
• Themed water attractions for a different kind of Disney adventure
• Opportunities to relax and enjoy the Florida climate
• Engaging in activities such as sandcastle building or floating down a lazy river
• Reduced waiting times compared to major theme parks
• Fun for all ages, whether looking for thrills or relaxation

Two Cons for Both Parks:

• Closure due to seasonal maintenance or inclement weather can sometimes affect planning
• Some guests might find the in-park food options to be limited or pricey
• Anyone looking to cool off in an imaginatively themed water environment, families with varied age groups, and Disney fans desiring a more laid-back experience but still within the magic of the Disney universe.

Make sure to include a relaxing dip in Orlando’s hot springs on your vacation agenda!

Insider Advice: Fast Passes, Dining, and Hidden Gems

Maximize your theme park visit in Orlando with these golden nuggets of insider info—they can make all the difference between a good trip and a magical one!

Fast Passes and Express Options: Reduce wait times with fast pass systems like Disney’s Genie+ service or Universal’s Express Pass. These allow guests to skip standard queues for many attractions and can be a game-changer during peak times.

Dining Delights: Reservations are highly recommended for sit-down dining experiences, especially in popular places like Epcot’s World Showcase or Disney Springs. For on-the-go options, mobile ordering saves time and lets them skip the line.

Hidden Gems:

• Find quieter spots for rest at Tom Sawyer Island in Magic Kingdom or the picturesque walking paths in Disney’s Boardwalk area.
• At Universal, enjoy the lesser-known cinematic displays like the Horror Makeup Show or the pathways around the park’s lagoon for a tranquil escape.

Don’t forget, these tips can turn a visit from delightful to downright dreamy!

FAQ: Unveiling the Magic

What are the must-see attractions in orlando's theme parks.

The must-see attractions in Orlando’s theme parks include Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle and Space Mountain, EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth and Test Track, Universal Studios’ Wizarding World of Harry Potter and The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Islands of Adventure, and the amazing animal encounters at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Safari.

Don’t miss thrilling water rides at theme parks like Volcano Bay or Blizzard Beach either!

How do I make the most out of my visit to these amusement parks?

To make the most out of your visit, plan ahead: book tickets in advance , use park apps for wait times and FastPass+ reservations, arrive early, and prioritize must-see attractions.

Remember to stay hydrated, take breaks, and enjoy at your own pace.

Are there any lesser-known theme parks in Orlando worth visiting?

Yes, beyond the big names, Orlando offers lesser-known gems like Fun Spot America for classic fairground rides and Gatorland, where they can get up close with Florida’s famous reptiles.

Discovery Cove offers intimate dolphin encounters, and the Holy Land Experience provides a biblical-themed day out.

What is the best time of year to visit Orlando's theme parks?

The best time to visit Orlando’s theme parks is during the off-peak seasons , typically from January to early March and September to early November.

These periods offer cooler weather, less crowded parks, and often shorter wait times for attractions.

What are the 12 theme parks in Orlando?

The 12 theme parks in Orlando include:

• Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort
• EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort
• Universal Studios Florida at Universal Orlando Resort
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort
• Universal’s Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort
• SeaWorld Orlando
• Aquatica Orlando by SeaWorld
• Legoland Florida Resort
• Fun Spot America Theme Park Orlando
• Discovery Cove

Each park offers a unique set of experiences, from classic Disney rides to immersive movie-themed attractions, aquatic adventures, and interactive animal exhibits.

What is a must-visit Orlando theme park for marine life enthusiasts?

For marine life enthusiasts, SeaWorld Orlando is a must-visit. They can discover a wide range of sea creatures, watch awe-inspiring shows , and learn about ocean conservation. Thrilling rides and interactive exhibits add to the aquatic adventure.

What are the benefits of becoming a Seaworld Orlando annual pass member?

Becoming a SeaWorld Orlando annual pass member offers benefits like free guest tickets, exclusive discounts on dining and merchandise , complimentary parking, and unlimited admission. There’s also early entry on select dates and special events for pass members.

Which theme park offers the best aquatic attractions?

Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park i s often lauded for its best aquatic attractions. It boasts innovative water rides, a massive wave pool, a relaxing lazy river, and the striking Krakatau volcano centerpiece. The TapuTapu wearable technology adds convenience to the experience.

Where can I find a family-friendly theme park in Orlando that appeals to all ages?

For a family-friendly theme park in Orlando that appeals to all ages, Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resor t is an excellent choice. It combines classic enchantment with attractions suited for young children, teens, and adults, ensuring a magical experience for every family member.

What are the 4 parks at Universal Orlando?

The 4 parks at Universal Orlando Resort include:

• Universal Studios Florida offers a behind-the-scenes look at movie-making with rides and shows.
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure features themed islands with roller coasters and other attractions.
• Universal’s Volcano Bay is a water theme park with state-of-the-art rides and a tropical paradise vibe.
• Universal CityWalk is an entertainment complex with dining, shopping, and nightlife (not a theme park, but an integral part of the Universal experience).

Which theme park is Harry Potter World in Orlando?

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando is split between two parks at Universal Orlando Resort : Diagon Alley is located in Universal Studios Florida, and Hogsmeade (including Hogwarts Castle) is in Universal’s Islands of Adventure .

Guests can travel between both areas aboard the Hogwarts Express with a park-to-park ticket.

What are the top amusement parks in Florida near Orlando?

The top amusement parks in Florida near Orlando include Walt Disney World Resort , Universal Orlando Resort , SeaWorld Orlando, and Legoland Florida Resort.

Others within driving distance are Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for animal encounters and thrilling rides and Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for space exploration fans.

Which theme park is Hagrid's ride in?

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, specifically within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade area.

This immersive coaster is a must-ride for Harry Potter fans and thrill-seekers visiting Orlando.

Which park is Diagon Alley Universal?

Diagon Alley is part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, located in Universal Studios Florida.

It’s a meticulously crafted area within the park where guests can experience the magic of the Harry Potter series with attractions , shops , and dining that mirror the books and films.

What's the difference between Universal and Islands of Adventure?

Universal Studios Florida provides an experience rooted in film and television , offering attractions and live shows based on iconic franchises.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure , on the other hand, offers more in terms of thrill rides and immersive theming across various “islands” dedicated to different stories and characters, including those from Harry Potter, Marvel, and Jurassic Park.

Which theme parks are near Orlando?

Parks near Orlando include the famous Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort . Others within a short drive are SeaWorld Orlando, Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven, and Busch Gardens in Tampa.

Gatorland and Fun Spot America provide more local flavor close to the city.

What are adult-friendly parks in Orlando?

Adult-friendly parks in Orlando feature a blend of thrill rides, sophisticated dining, and entertainment. EPCOT is known for its food and wine experiences, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure offer high-adrenaline rides, and Harry Potter attractions and Disney’s Hollywood Studios caters to Star Wars and classic movie fans.

SeaWorld and Discovery Cove provide serene encounters with marine life for a more relaxed outing.

Which are the best Orlando theme parks?

The best Orlando theme parks are subjective to visitors’ preferences:

• Magic Kingdom : Best for classic Disney magic and family-friendly attractions.
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure : Best for high-thrill rides and Harry Potter fans.
• EPCOT : Best for cultural exploration and food aficionados.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom : Best for wildlife adventures and immersive themed experiences.
• Universal Studios Florida : Best for movie enthusiasts and interactive show experiences.

Each park offers distinct attractions that are best depending on what one is looking for in their theme park experience.

Where can I buy tickets for Orlando theme parks?

Tickets for Orlando theme parks can be purchased online directly from the respective park’s official websites , through authorized resellers and ticketing websites, at the parks’ onsite ticket booths, or as part of vacation packages via travel agents or tour operators.

Buying online in advance often provides the convenience of securing FastPasses or discounts.

What are the top theme parks in Orlando for adults?

The top theme parks in Orlando for adults include:

• EPCOT : Ideal for adults with its international pavilions and festivals like Food & Wine.
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure : Offers high thrills, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios : Appeals to film buffs with Star Wars and classic Hollywood themes.
• Universal Studios Florida : Adults enjoy the film-centric rides and productions, plus themed nightlife at CityWalk.
• SeaWorld Orlando : Great for those interested in marine life, conservation, and roller coasters.

These parks not only cater to adult tastes in entertainment, but they also offer a variety of dining and shopping experiences.

How many theme parks does Orlando have?

Orlando is home to a total of more than a dozen theme parks , with the major ones being the four Walt Disney World Resort parks, the three Universal Orlando Resort parks, SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, Legoland Florida, and several other smaller parks, and water parks like Fun Spot America and Gatorland.

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Conclusion: Theme Parks in Orlando

Orlando stands unparalleled as the theme park capital of the world, with a vibrant array of parks to suit every interest, age group, and thrill level.

Whether basking in the classic enchantment of Disney, stepping into the cinematic universes at Universal , embarking on a marine voyage at SeaWorld , or diving into the colorful world of LEGO , Orlando delivers unforgettable experiences. Each park invites visitors to craft stories of adventure , fantasy, and discovery.

From memorable character encounters and innovative rides to educational exhibits and splashing good times , there’s a park in Orlando that’s perfect for any traveler seeking joy and entertainment. As they plan their visit, remember that the most magical aspect of Orlando’s parks is not just the rides and attractions themselves but the lasting memories they create .

Have you visited any of these amazing Theme Parks in Orlando ? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below !

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Best Theme Parks in Orlando

LAST UPDATED BY Michelle Spitzer February 15, 2022

If you're going to drop your hard-earned cash at a theme park, being an informed consumer is imperative. The Disney complex alone, including the childhood fantasy land of the  Magic Kingdom , exotic nations (not to mention fascinating live residents) of  Animal Kingdom , winter wonderland Blizzard Beach, big-screen excitement of  Hollywood Studios  and the futuristic, multicultural playground of  EPCOT , houses more parks than you can count on one hand. Add in Universal and the myriad independently operated attractions vying for your leisure dollars and you've got some big decisions to make. 

Are you after the biggest roller coaster bang for your buck at a Disney venue? On the lookout for the best shows and interactive rides?  Maybe you’re searching for a dreamlike water park to help your family beat  Orlando 's formidable heat or feed the animals? Maybe you'd like to combine relaxation and activity at Discovery Cove? Well, whether you want to soar like Harry Potter at  Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure  or just drink the Butterbeer, our Top 10 Theme Park rundown is a great place to begin your research. And if neither time nor money are an object? Easy: stay for two weeks and hit every single one.

Peppa Pig Theme Park

Located just steps away from LEGOLAND Florida, the brand new Peppa Pig Theme Park (opened Feb. 2022) is paradise for preschoolers. The park isn't overwhelming large, but just the right size for little ones to spend a day exploring it all. There are several rides and experiences designed especially for the 6-and-under crowd (but older kiddos will love them too): a garden-themed playground, live shows, an indoor theater to cool off from the Florida heat and catch up on Peppa Pig episodes and so much more. For the adventurous little ones, there's Daddy Pig's Roller Coaster open to those at least 36 inches tall. And of course, what Peppa Pig Theme Park would be complete without muddle puddles? The large splash-pad area has slides, stations to build sand castles and even a giant bucket that dumps water on those below. Peppa and her brother George also make appearances for photo opportunities.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : The park is just the right size and the perfect mix of attractions, shows and rides for little ones.

Michelle's expert tip : The park teamed up with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to open as a certified autism center. All staff tool autism sensitivity and awareness training. Each attraction has a sensory guide that details how it may affect children.

Read more about Peppa Pig Theme Park →

Legoland Florida

Located roughly 30 miles from Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, this theme park bills itself as being "Built For Kids," but it's really built for everyone. Sure there are a fair share of kiddie rides, but there are also a few rollercoasters, including some perfect for those just starting to test the thrill-seeking attractions. As you can imagine, there are LEGO sculptures everywhere! There also are 3D movies, LEGO play areas and a waterpark (which does require a separate admissions ticket) connected to the LEGOLAND. Opening later this year after undergoing some improvements is Miniland USA, a massive area in the park made up of 32 million LEGO bricks. You'll see cities like Las Vegas and San Francisco recreated as well as well-known attractions like Daytona Speedway and Kennedy Space Center, complete with a shuttle that launches. The park is celebrating its 10th birthday in 2021 and has a calendar filled with special events, including the launch of a Brickbeard's Watersports Stunt Show, a Master Builder Experience and the premiere of a 4-D movie.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : The lines are rarely long at this theme park and you can accomplish a lot in one visit.

Michelle's expert tip : Save time to walk around the beautiful Cypress Gardens botanical gardens, which has been around since 1939. Bonus tip: The new Peppa Pig Theme Park opened in February 2022 right next to Legoland.

Read more about Legoland Florida →

Universal Studios Florida—

With Diagon Alley delighting the Potter people, Springfield USA luring Simpson fans worldwide and the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride still high on visitors' lists, Universal Studios Florida gives its sister park more than a run for its money. Honestly, which you prefer will likely depend on a smidge preference for one ride or section over another. Additionally, coaster aficionados will rejoice in both the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and the indoor marvel of Revenge of the Mummy, which plunges riders into darkness as they race through dazzling, special effects-driven perils from the film that inspired it: scurrying carnivorous scarabs, an army of warrior mummies and an almost too-real fireball. Don't miss the new attraction Bourne Stuntacular, which opened in 2020 and is based on the Bourne Identity franchise.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : Blazing hot with everything from Transformers to Minions to the Simpsons' Springfield, Universal Studios is a Hollywood-style heavy hitter.

Michelle's expert tip : Fans of the macabre take note: this park is home to Halloween Horror Nights, 10-time winner of Amusement Today's Golden Ticket Award for "Best Halloween Event." If your visit falls during the season, come find out why.

Read more about Universal Studios Florida— →

Disney's Blizzard Beach Waterpark

Want to go on one of the fastest rides at Walt Disney World? Disney's Blizzard Beach is where you need to head. The waterslide Summit Plummet plunges those who dare 12-stories almost straight down reaching speeds of 65 mph. By comparison, EPCOT's Test Track reaches an average top speed of 64.9 mph. If speed isn't your thing, you'll probably enjoy Cross County Creek. The 3,000-foot lazy river is one of the longest in the country. It can take between 20 to 30 minutes to complete one circle, depending on how lazy you want to be of course. One can't-miss-attraction at this winter-themed waterpark is the "ski lift," likely the only one in Florida.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : There are options for those who want to ride the rides, those who want to relax and for those who want something in between.

Michelle's expert tip : Spoil yourself with a cabana and have food and drinks delivered right to you.

Read more about Disney's Blizzard Beach Waterpark →

Epcot may be undergoing the largest transformation in Walt Disney World history, but the park still has plenty to offer. World showcase features slices of life from a host of different nations, miniature cultural immersions via food, music, art, architecture and more. That said, don't think the kids will miss out on their favorite Disney characters. Anna-and-Elsa fans will delight in Norway's Frozen Ever After ride. The gang from "Finding Nemo" is on hand at The Seas with Nemo and Friends pavilion, which boasts one of the largest manmade ocean environments in the world (people actually snorkel and scuba dive in it). Epcot is the theme park of festivals and there's a good chance your visit will coincide with one. Whether it's the International Festival of the Arts, the International Food & Wine Festival or the Flower & Garden Festival, they all feature plenty to see, do and eat!

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : Want to scratch a host of countries off your travel Bucket List in a day? Until teleportation becomes reality, there's always Epcot.

Michelle's expert tip : The new Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and the night-time show Harmonious are can't-miss attractions.

Read more about Epcot →

Magic Kingdom— Park

This tried-and-true classic had its 50th birthday in October 2021, and there are plenty of celebrations going on for the rest of 2022. Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World's first theme park is still making memories half a century later. The three mountains, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain are iconic to the park, but so are many of the other attractions. The Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, It's a Small World, Mad Tea Party, the list goes on and on of the rides that bring back countless childhood memories for so many. The park only got better with newer additions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Magic Kingdom will gain even more attention with the upcoming opening of the roller coaster TRON Lightcycle Run.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : There are lots of great celebrations in store to celebrate this iconic park's 50th anniversary.

Michelle's expert tip : Search for Hidden Mickeys. Subtle representations of the Disney icon are hidden throughout all the Disney parks and properties in the architecture, decor, just about anywhere! Bonus: it's a good way to pass time while waiting in line.

Read more about Magic Kingdom— Park →

Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure—

From the towering sight of Hogwarts Castle as you explore the Wizarding World's Hogsmeade to the colorful fun of Seuss Landing (ideal for the littlest ones in your party) and the old-school flume-ride fun of Jurassic Park to the innovative thrills of Spiderman to the exciting meld of 3D technology and animatronics in Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Islands of Adventure is a king among the heavy-hitting theme-park contenders this city has to offer. Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure isn't a rollercoaster, but a story coaster where guests encounter favorites from the world of Harry Potter. Debating which rides, or even which section of the park, tops them all is best slated for some after-park drinks at nearby Universal CityWalk after thoughtful research in the field.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : The combination of Hogwarts and butterbeer with Dr. Seuss and Spiderman make Islands of Adventure tough to beat.

Michelle's expert tip : If you want the full Harry Potter experience, you'll need tickets to both Universal Parks, which is the only way to ride the Hogwarts Express.

Read more about Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure— →

Disney's Animal Kingdom— Theme Park

Chase after the yeti on the peaks of the Himalayas, shoot the Kali Rapids on a lush and beautiful Indian River, go back in time to find dinosaurs on a prehistoric, dark-ride journey and delight in a colorful, fun musical presentation of "Finding Nemo" at this wondrous part of the Disney realm. Its newest section, Pandora, leaves the planet altogether, taking guests on a journey to lush and primordial Pandora. It's a magnificent trip, but all the new doesn't take a thing away from things like the Kilimanjaro Safari, where live animals roam free or the resplendent Tree of Life Nighttime Awakenings show.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : Between its exotic residents, its incredible coasters and its beautiful Disney-driven details, Animal Kingdom is a definite Top-10 park.

A.D.'s expert tip : Avatar Flight of Passage, which takes riders on a banshee flight over Pandora, is one of the most immersive and exhilarating rides imaginable.

Read more about Disney's Animal Kingdom— Theme Park →

Disney's Hollywood Studios—

Combining signature thrill rides and movie magic, Disney's Hollywood Studios is the only place where you can enjoy tot-friendly Muppetvision in 3D, then plummet 13 stories on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror! Fill your Star Wars quota with a visit to the planet Batuu in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. While thrill-seekers take a ride on Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. Toy Story Land is a must for the whole family if only to grab a photo with the colorful, fun décor. But chances are, the rides there will be a hit. In fact, Hollywood Studios is home to the first attraction to star Mickey and Minnie. Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway (say that three times fast) is a runaway hit since opening in March 2020.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : There is easily something for everyone at this park, from the littlest Disney fans to the more seasoned ones. From the thrill-seekers to the people-watchers.

Michelle's expert tip : This park is going to get an even bigger boost in 2022 with the opening of the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, a two-night all-immersive adventure.

Read more about Disney's Hollywood Studios— →

Discovery Cove Orlando

You'll feel like you're on an all-inclusive island rather than the center of a city known for theme parks. Your admission ticket not only gets you access to the dolphins, but it also includes a snorkel experience with thousands of tropical fish and coral reefs, entrance to the aviary and much more. Breakfast, lunch, drinks and snacks also are part of the deal. In fact, you don't even need towels or sunscreen. They are provided along with wetsuits. The lazy river is designed to look like a lagoon among a rainforest with waterfalls, caves and rocky terrain. Waterproof masks are given to guests when swimming with the dolphins and masks also need to be worn when in the restaurant or gift shops. You can rent a cabana to get an ultra-exclusive, private feel. There are other add-ons, like swimming with sharks or exploring the coral reef with a dive helmet.

Recommended for Best Theme Parks because : The park has always operated at a limited capacity, even pre-Covid, to provide intimate and engaging animal encounters and the best overall park experience.

Michelle's expert tip : You can pack light. The experience includes food, drinks, towels and even sunscreen.

Read more about Discovery Cove Orlando →

Michelle Spitzer grew up in South Florida taking many family vacations to the Orlando area. For more than 15 years, she's called central Florida home.

Explore Orlando

Expert tips.

Michelle Spitzer: Orlando Local Expert

Don't leave Orlando without visiting the Wheel at ICON Park. The 400-foot attraction gives an amazing view of the city and beyond. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Kennedy Space Center on the east coast.

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I visit Universal Orlando several times a year. Here are my top 10 tips for first-timers.

I’ll never forget walking out of Universal Islands of Adventure in 2022, drenched from head to toe after riding Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barge . 

It was my first trip back to Universal Orlando Resort in years, and I learned some things the hard way, which I gladly shared with fellow travelers, hoping that they’d avoid my mistakes .

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to visit the Florida resort several times a year. And while I stand by my earlier tips, I’ve learned a few others.

Here are my top tips for first-timers visiting Universal Orlando.

1.  Stay on property

From RV parks to vacation rentals, there’s no shortage of places to stay in Central Florida, but it can pay to stay on property when visiting Universal Orlando. Not only are prices comparable to off-property hotels with Endless Summer Surfside and Dockside starting at $99 a night, but all of Universal’s resort hotels offer 30 minutes of early entry to select parks, which vary depending on time of year. 

They also provide free resort transportation, so you can get back to your room fairly quickly after a long park day or for a midday break. That free transportation can be clutch in the mornings, particularly at pricier Loews Sapphire Falls , Loews Royal Pacific , Loews Portofino Bay , and Hard Rock Hotel , which offer water taxis that drop you off closer to the parks than you can get arriving by car or bus. Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel guests can walk over to Sapphire Falls for water taxis, but the extra time and steps added may make it not worth skipping the resort shuttle bus.

Walking paths are also available to the parks from every resort hotel except the Endless Summer ones. Cabana Bay guests also have a dedicated walking path to Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.

Guests staying at Royal Pacific, Portofino Bay and Hard Rock also get free Universal Express Passes , which dramatically cut waits for most rides and normally start at $79.99 per person. Free package delivery is also available to all resort hotels, if guests don’t want to lug park purchases around all day.

Epic Universe details revealed: What's coming to Universal Orlando next year

2. Buy a popcorn bucket

Snacking at the parks can get expensive. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, but there’s one crowd-pleaser that won’t break the bank. 

A plain popcorn bucket costs a little over $12, and you can keep getting refills throughout your trip. Refills cost around $2 each, making popcorn among the cheapest, most shareable snacks on property. On our last trip, my family and I got multiple refills for the price of one pretzel with cheese dip.

3.  Bring a light, refillable water bottle

Staying hydrated is always important, particularly on hot park days. 

You can fill water bottles with free ice-cold water at any of the many Coca-Cola Freestyle machines across the property. Cups of ice water are also available for free anywhere dispensed soft drinks are sold.

Leave big double-walled stainless steel tumblers at home. Not only will they feel heavy, carrying them around all the day, but if they aren’t leak-proof, they’ll make a mess when you tip them on their sides to fit in lockers for thrill rides.

4. Bring a medium-sized bag to carry your stuff

Numerous attractions, from Jurassic World VelociCoaster to Men in Black Alien Attack , require guests to store loose articles in lockers provided for the duration of the ride. 

I previously recommended keeping most of your things together to avoid having to empty every pocket each time. That’s still true, but I want to add a caveat on size. 

The free lockers aren’t very big. They can fit a Loungefly-style mini backpack or empty popcorn bucket, if you squish them down, but they’re not large enough for packed full-size backpacks. Keep that in mind unless you want to pay for larger lockers.

5. Bring ponchos

Ponchos don’t take a lot of space and can save you from getting soaked like me on Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barge, Dudley Do-Right’s Rip Saw Falls , and Jurassic Park River Adventure .

Even if you skip water rides, ponchos are good to keep on hand for rainy park days.

6. Use single-rider lines 

Many attractions have a single-rider lane. If you’re traveling alone or don’t mind your party being split up, you can save time using the single-rider lane, if it’s open. They’re not always offered.

It doesn’t guarantee a short wait, but it’s usually shorter. On our latest trip, my middle schooler still waited at least 45 minutes for The Incredible Hulk Coaster and an hour for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit . That was about as long as the regular standby wait for Hulk but shorter than the standby wait for Rip Ride Rockit.

The following attractions have single-rider lanes, though availability varies.

Universal Studios Florida

• E.T. Adventure
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• Men in Black Alien Attack
• Revenge of the Mummy
• The Simpsons Ride
• Transformers: The Ride-3D

Universal Islands of Adventure

• Doctor Doom's Fearfall
• Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls
• Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Jurassic World VelociCoaster
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster

7. Use child swap 

If someone in your party doesn’t meet ride requirements for an attraction or simply wants to sit it out, you can ask for a child swap. It’s particularly helpful for families with young children because it allows parents and caregivers to take turns riding the ride and staying with whoever is sitting it out.

On our most recent trip, my youngest didn’t want to ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure , so we all waited in line together, but then she and I peeled off to a designated waiting room while my middle schooler and mother-in-law went on the ride. When they were done, my mother-in-law stayed with my youngest while I went on the ride. My middle schooler lucked out, getting to ride it twice.

Not all attractions have waiting rooms, but they all offer swaps. Just let team members know you need one.

8. Take breaks

Theme parks can be exhausting. Not only are you on your feet all day, but they can be loud, crowded and overstimulating. 

When possible, I like to plan for at least one sit-down meal in the day. This way, I can take my time and recuperate in air conditioning away from crowds. I’ll typically splurge on one table-service meal, but there are several medium-priced, quick-service restaurants across both theme parks where you can grab a lighter snack and relax.

Really, any cool spot where you can sit down works. Knockturn Alley in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida is always refreshing, though dark. Jurassic Park Discovery Center in Islands of Adventure is a great place for kids to explore while adults unwind. 

9.  Watch the shows

Rides get a lot of the love, but Universal Orlando’s live entertainment is top tier. You can find showtimes on the free resort app or simply stop to watch performances you stumble across while roaming the parks.

The only year-round shows with dedicated seating are at Universal Studios Florida: Animal Actors On Location! , The Bourne Stuntacular , and Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, which is more funny than scary.

10. Let little ones stretch their legs

There are several play areas across both theme parks for little ones to burn off energy.

This summer, a new DreamWorks Land will open at Universal Studios Florida with a “Kung Fu Panda”-themed play area.

At Islands of Adventure, kids can explore Camp Jurassic in Jurassic Park, If I Ran a Zoo in Seuss Landing, and Me Ship, The Olive in Toon Lagoon. There are also splash pads and water features across Toon Lagoon; just make sure to either bring swimsuits or backup clothes for those.

Bonus: Don’t sleep on Volcano Bay

You’ll definitely want to pack swimsuits if you’re heading to Volcano Bay, which regularly ranks among the best water parks in the country and adds a completely different experience to vacations.

It’s themed like a tropical paradise, with plenty of trees and an iconic volcano that houses multiple water slides. The water park can get crowded, but you never spend too much time standing in line because every guest gets a Tapu Tapu wearable bracelet that lets them join one virtual queue at a time. 

Single-day tickets start at $80, which is considerably less than the $119 starting price for guests age 10 and up at Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, but still not cheap. However, if you’re already planning to buy multi-day tickets for both theme parks, tacking on Volcano Bay is not much more.

12 Tips for the Best Day at Universal Orlando Theme Parks

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 30 October, 2023

Heading to Universal Studios Orlando? We’ve visited the parks five times over the past year, and we’ve written this guide on how to do Universal Orlando right. There’s no wrong way to do it, but there are some things that can make your trip to the theme parks just that much better.

Make the most of your visit with these 12 money and time-saving Universal Orlando tips.

1. Buy The Express Pass

Don’t spend your day in line. If you want to get the most out of your visit to Universal Orlando, buy the express passes. They are a good deal at only $79.99 per day for a 2-park express pass. They will literally save you hours in line.

If you plan your day right, you can ride just about every major attraction in a single park during one day with an express pass, which would be impossible without.

Express Passes are FREE  if you are at one of these three onsite hotels: Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, or Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

2. Stay On-Site

One of the best tips for Universal Orlando we always tell people is to stay on site. Universal Orlando Resort has several hotels located right on the grounds connected to the parks. This has a ton of perks that come with your stay.

One of the best perks of staying on-site is early admission to the parks. You can get in one hour earlier than guests staying offsite. Another plus is you can ride the water taxi right to the park gates and skip parking every day. If you stay at Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, or Loews Royal Pacific Resort Express, passes are included, valued up to $129 per person per day.

On our last trip, we stayed at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, read our review here . 

Plus, priority seating at select restaurants. There are a ton of reasons to stay onsite at Universal Orlando hotels. The perks alone are worth the price.

3. Use The Single Rider Lines

Save even more time in line with single rider lines. If you don’t mind riding alone, then jump in the single rider lines when you get close to the front of the line and have more time to ride all of the rides at Universal Orlando. A bonus is that your friends won’t hear you scream this way either!

4. Explore One Park Per Day

One of the best ways to divide your time at Universal Orlando is to tackle just one park per day. Spend one day at Universal Studios Orlando exploring Diagon alley, the Simpsons attractions, riding the Rip Ride Rocket. The next day take on all the great rides in Islands Of Adventure.

Save your last day for the brand-new Volcano Bay water theme park. You’ll have more time to spend on rides and enjoying the park if you avoid bouncing between parks during the day. Map out your plan of attack before picking up tickets in the morning.

5. Download The Universal Orlando Resort App

Of course, there’s an app for that! Before you hit the park, download the Universal Orlando Resort app . From the app, you’ll have park maps, current wait times for rides, show schedules, dining options, and you can even buy tickets right from your phone.

6. Don’t Bring Too Much Stuff Into The Park

Most rides at Universal Orlando do not allow you to bring bags or backpacks on with you to minimize what you bring into the park. We suggest keeping it simple and bringing in just your phone, camera, and wallet into the park. Everything else you could need is in the park.

7. Pack A Bag That Will Fit In The On-Site Lockers

If you can’t get by with just your pockets for everything you need while in the parks, then make sure to pack a bag that will fit into the lockers on site. There are three locker sizes at Universal Orlando: mini $8 a day, regular $12 a day, and family $15 a day. You can access the locker all day as many times as needed.

8. Ride the Hogwarts Express Between the Parks

Don’t just walk between the theme parks, have an experience while being transported between Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure. The Hogwarts Express will bring you between the two parks all while entertaining you.

9. Login To The Free Wifi

Stay connected while in the park with the free wifi that actually works just about everywhere in the park. Save your data while traveling and use the wifi while posting to social or face-timing with your friends and family who stayed at home.

10. Parents Should Use The Child Swap Rooms

If you are visiting Universal Orlando with young children who might not be able to ride all the rides, it doesn’t mean you can’t either. Parents can use the child swap rooms at Universal Orlando to take turns riding the rides while the other waits with the kids who can’t ride. You might have visited because of the kids, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun too!

11. Eat at CityWalk

The days of food at theme parks being overpriced and not that great are over with. Good food can be found throughout the parks, but our favorite restaurants are found in Universal’s CityWalk , located at the gates in front of both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Orlando.

CityWalk is open to the public, so no ticket is needed. We haven’t had a bad meal at CityWalk yet, but our top three picks would be:

• Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar – A burger & sushi spot with funky toppings and awesome fresh rolls | TripAdvisor Reviews
• Toothsome Chocolate Emporium – A themed restaurant with ridiculously good food that is heavy on the chocolate | TripAdvisor Reviews
• Antojitos – A top-notch Mexican place with out-of-this-world table-side prepared guacamole | TripAdvisor Reviews

12. Maximize The Fun With Discounts

Save more money for your next trip to Universal Orlando by looking for discounts to the parks. There are always offers to make your trip to the parks a little bit cheaper.

• Buy two, get two
• Florida resident discounts

Don’t Forget to Pin Me for Later!

Explore More Universal Orlando Travel Tips

• 9 Places to Get a Grown Up Drink at Universal Orlando
• What Makes The Holidays At Universal Orlando Epic
• Top 10 Best Restaurants at Universal Orlando
• Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Guide
• Top 10 Tasty Cheap Eats at Universal Orlando

What are your Universal Orlando tips?

The Perfect 3 Days in Orlando Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 3, 2024

If you plan to travel to Orlando, this 3 days in Orlando itinerary will be the best place for you to start planning your trip!

Located in the middle of the sunny state of Florida , Orlando has become one of the most popular tourist destinations due to its variety of theme parks and central location to other popular attractions in Florida.

It is the perfect whole-family vacation spot and those who are a kid at heart!

The main attractions in Orlando are the two theme parks: Disney World and Universal Studios. But there are plenty of other fun things to do in Orlando to beat the theme park crowds!

Visiting the Kennedy Space Center is a great place to learn about the science behind space travel and it’s just a short 1-hour drive towards the east coast from Orlando. 

Whatever your reason for wanting to travel to this sunny part of central Florida, this 3 day Orlando itinerary will get you started on a magical stay!

READ MORE: Check out my other guide to the absolute best things to do in Orlando !

Table of Contents

Evening at Disney Springs

Evening at universal city walk, first option – explore i-drive activities, second option – explore downtown orlando: culture and arts, day 3 – day trip to kennedy space center (or theme park day #2), when to visit orlando, getting around orlando florida, budget accommodation – best western orlando gateway hotel, mid-range accommodation – universal’s endless summer resort – surfside inn & suites, luxury accommodation – castle hotel – autograph collection, budget – ana’s brazilian kitchen, mid-range – hard rock cafe, high-end – edie v’s prime seafood, how to spend a perfect 3 days in orlando itinerary.

Although you could easily spend your full 3 day Orlando itinerary on just theme parks, we’re going to give you a few more ideas on how to fill your time.

No doubt you’ll want to stop at Disney World, Magic Kingdom, or Universal Studios theme parks as part of your stay. But don’t get tied down spending all of your time in just one or two places. 

This perfect Orlando itinerary will give you lots of ideas for how you can experience most of what the city has to offer and leave you ready to come back to experience more! 

When it comes to theme parks, I highly highly recommend purchasing the Orlando CityPASS beforehand.

You can basically pick whichever theme parks you want to go to and save a bunch of money.

SPECIAL DEAL: Save money by buying the Orlando CityPass to get access to all the theme parks at a discount.

Day 1 – Theme Park of Your Choice

OK, so theme parks are likely the reason why you planned to visit Orlando in the first place.

You have your favorite theme park in mind, so we won’t try to talk you out of it.

We will share a few of our favorite things about each of the Disney parks to give you a better idea of how to spend your time on the first of your 3 days in Orlando.

You never know, maybe you’ll end up tacking on an extra day to visit another theme park! 

My favorite theme park in Orlando is Universal Studios Florida, also known as Universal Orlando Resort.

I’ve been going to Universal Studios since I was a little kid and the park has changed a lot over the years, but mostly for the better. It’s a great spot for a family vacation.

Since the recent additions of the Harry Potter rides, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure have become increasingly more popular!

I can’t say I’m a huge Harry Potter fan. But exploring Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Resort is a fun experience not to be skipped!

You truly feel like you’ve entered a different world. The butterbeer is delicious and plentiful and the thrilling rides are incredible.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure really does a great job of incorporating different themes and worlds. Imagination comes to life, movie and storybook characters become real, and the scenery is incredible. The different themes on the Islands of Adventure are so much fun no matter how old you are.

My favorite ride is the Hogwarts Express which transports you in between the parks. But don’t just go for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter alone!

Read Next: Check out our post on all of the best things to do in Florida!

The other areas of the parks and rides are great as well.

Though most of my favorite rides have since closed down (goodbye Back 2 the Future!), the new rides have fantastic modern technology.

The newly remodeled Incredible Hulk Coaster is a must, Revenge of the Mummy (my favorite!!), Spiderman and Transformer rides are a blast.

And kids will love Dr. Seuss Landing and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem .

But of course, there is also the whole Disney experience as well.

The Magic Kingdom is my favorite park in Walt Disney World. Magic Kingdom is home to Cinderella’s Castle and is the epitome of classic Disney!

I love joking around with the Pirates at the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.

And my favorite ride at Magic Kingdom will always be the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad .

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is another Disney theme park full of rides and characters. Most people visit Hollywood Studios for the Star Wars themed rides and attractions.

But the most fun of all at Walt Disney World is meeting and interacting with your favorite Disney Characters.

Definitely a must-do in the Magic Kingdom is having a character meal.

It is the best way to skip the long lines at the character meet and greets and you get to spend more time with your favorite Disney World characters!

You’ve probably had a fun-filled day at Universal Studios Florida or the Magic Kingdom.

At the end of the day, regardless of which theme parks you chose, you’re going to want to relax and enjoy yourself at the public boardwalk of either theme park.

You don’t have to have tickets to enjoy either place. But since you’ve spent the day in one of the parks you might as well round out the day at either Universal City Walk or Disney Springs. 

Read Next: Have some extra time in the area? Check out these awesome day trips from Orlando !

Plan on going to Disney Springs hungry as it’s a huge dining mecca and is also a great place to purchase your souvenirs.

It’s free to enter and if you’re staying at a Disney resort there will be transportation to and from Disney Springs.

T-Rex , a dinosaur-themed restaurant, offers a fun atmosphere that the kids will thoroughly enjoy.

If you are visiting without kids, there are plenty of restaurants and bars geared toward a more mature audience.

Try The Edison for great American cuisine, cocktails, and fantastic live entertainment, or The Boathouse for delicious seafood.

I really enjoyed my sandwich from Earl of Sandwich , a great place to grab something quick to eat!

There is also plenty of fun to be had at Disney Springs from nightly live entertainment to so many attractions like the vintage amphibious cars, bowling alley and the NBA Experience .

While walking around and enjoying the sights you may come across your favorite Disney Character too!

Be sure to check the calendar for special events taking place at Disney Springs

READ MORE: Plan to do these amazing things in St. Augustine .

If you spent the day at the Universal Orlando Resort then plan on having dinner and buying your souvenirs at Universal City Walk.

It’s located right outside the gates of both parks. In fact, you have to walk through City Walk to get to the entrances of the theme park!

You could plan on taking a break at your hotel after spending the day at Universal and then come back after 6 pm, parking is free then!

Universal City Walk offers great nightlife, live music and entertainment, fantastic restaurants, and shopping.

I recommend eating at Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar or Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville .

But save room for a decadent dessert at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium!

You may be able to catch an awesome rock concert at the Hardrock Cafe and don’t forget about the unforgettable Blue Man Group performance that shouldn’t be missed!

Be sure to check the calendar for special events at Universal’s City Walk.

There is so much delicious food and entertainment to enjoy in an Orlando itinerary!

Day 2 – Exploring Orlando’s International Drive

You can walk, or trolley, through today’s activities. They’re going to be numerous, and you’re going to spend a lot of energy enjoying yourself. 

If you prefer the trolley to save some calories for all the fun you’ll have, pick up your unlimited ride pass here .

To begin day 2 of your 3 days in Orlando itinerary you’ll want to make your way to International Drive (I-Drive) in downtown Orlando.

If your hotel doesn’t offer a complimentary breakfast, head to Denny’s at the north end of I-Drive and grab a quick and filling meal to start your day.

The first option for day 2 of your Orlando vacation is to start heading down I-Drive and check out the following places: 

The first stop on your list should be a fast and furious race on one of Orlando’s fastest electric go-karts at I-Drive Nascar .

Race down the indoor track at speeds up to 45 mph that will fulfill your need for speed and leave you wanting to race again and again!

Lucky for you they offer a 2 race special, so plan on spending at least 30 mins here driving the go-karts around the ¼ mile-long track.

Coming up next on i-Drive is the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition or you can choose to explore Ripley’s Believe It or Not.

Both are interactive museum-like experiences.

Titanic takes you on a journey back in time to experience what it was like to be on the enormous ship with authentic artifacts and full-scale rooms.

Go over to this website to buy your tickets for the Titanic exhibit .

Ripley’s Believe It or Not is an odditorium with bizarre events, oddities, and unusual artifacts collected from all over the world.

Choose to visit just one or both, but be prepared to spend a couple of hours at each attraction.

Next experience the extreme sport that is skydiving without actually jumping out of a plane!

At iFly indoor skydiving , you will suit up and enter a state-of-the-art glass wind tunnel and be suspended in the air.

Anyone from the ages of 3 to 103 can experience the weightlessness of free-falling or bodyflight as they call it at iFly.  Buy tickets here!

Or you can choose to do Wonderworks . It is the crazy looking upside building that looks like it was picked up by a tornado and dropped from the sky.

This is a fantastic place for families as it is an interactive science and learning museum with tonnes of hands-on exhibits created to make learning fun.

Wonderworks is one of my favorite places on i-drive and I don’t even have kids!

I enjoyed experiencing what a massive earthquake would feel like, lying on a bed of nails and trying on a spacesuit in the space discovery zone.

After exploring the different zones try your hand at the glow in the dark ropes course and a game of laser tag!

Another stop on I-Drive is the Chocolate Kingdom . But be warned, if you visit here before dinner time you may spoil your meal!

You will learn where chocolate comes from and how it is made into the delicious chocolate treats you enjoy from stores.

You can even make your own chocolate and devour it there or take home to enjoy later. 

READ MORE: Plan the perfect 3 days in Miami itinerary .

Alternatively, if you’d rather enjoy more culture and the outdoors you could skip the touristy areas of I-Drive and visit a few of Orlando’s several beautiful parks, gardens and museums .

Have breakfast near your hotel and then call a taxi or Uber to take you to downtown Orlando.

First, check out the Orlando Science Center . For families and those interested in natural science, interactive exhibits, and more, the Orlando Science Center is a fun place to go. The Orlando Museum of Art is just next door so you can head thereafter.

If you’re into shopping, check out the Florida Mall or the Orlando Premium Outlets .

For a bit of nature, head to the Harry P Leu Gardens , a beautiful and historic botanical garden and house.

If you still want to see more parks after the Harry P Leu Gardens, spend the afternoon relaxing at Lake Eola Park . You can rent paddleboats or simply chill out in the shade.

Lake Eola Park isn’t far from Thornton Park , home to the Orlando Farmer’s Market and lots of trendy cafes and boutique stores.

After you’ve had your fill of enjoying art and relaxing in nature, work your way to International Drive.

Last you will want to end up at Icon Park . Arrive near sunset and you can ride The Wheel while witnessing a beautiful sunset over the Orlando skyline.

The Wheel is a massive state of the art climate controlled Ferris wheel. It is the best place to observe the city skyline when visiting Orlando!

If this sounds like your cup of tea (and why wouldn’t it?!) then buy your ticket online here .

You can choose to eat dinner at Icon Park or go out for a night on the town at Universal City Walk or Disney Springs and enjoy dinner there. The choice is yours!

On the last of your 3 days in Orlando itinerary, you have the option to take a day trip to one of the most historic parts of nearby Florida or head back to your favorite (or the other) theme park. 

The Kennedy Space Center is NASA’s primary launch center .

You can hire a private tour of the entire center’s grounds and see the Launch Control Center , see where the rockets are prepared for launching, the astronaut dormitories, and the space station processing facility.

But the main area where all visitors are welcome is the museum. There you can see important rocket artifacts and memorabilia and get up close to the Space Shuttle Atlantis .

Tour the grounds in the morning and then enjoy the afternoon going through the interactive exhibits in the museum while learning what it would be like to be an astronaut.

You may also have the chance to see a rocket launch, as they are still actively using the grounds to launch SpaceX rockets!  

There’s always a massive group here though, so I’m going to share one of my favorite travel hacks for the Kennedy Space Centre:

Buy a ‘ Skip the Line’ ticket before you arrive , so you can just walk straight on in. 100% worth it.

Returning from KSC on Hwy 528 will bring you right back to the heart of Orlando.

From here you can pick up where you left off at any of the evening attractions.

Take a ride on The Wheel or spend the evening at either Universal City Walk or Disney Springs.

Depending on when you are there, you may even be able to catch a concert at the House of Blues or a Cirque du Soleil show at Disney Springs. Disney and Cirque du Soleil have a collaborative show called “Drawn To Life” which is a really cool option.

Or look for performers at Hard Rock Cafe at Universal City Walk. 

However you choose to wrap up the evening, you’ll be certain to have spent your 3 days in Orlando vacation in grand fashion!

Orlando Travel Guide

Now that you know how to spend 3 days in Orlando, here is a little more information about when to visit the city, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. 

Whether you are on an Orlando family vacation or you’re visiting without kids, these accommodation, transport, and dining recommendations will suit anyone.

Winter and Spring are the most popular times of year to visit Orlando Florida with the busiest time of year being Spring break.

The weather is more predictable and the temperatures mild, thus more inviting for tourists to travel to the area. Just be aware, places like Disney World will be super crowded.

To beat the family crowds, plan on traveling to Orlando when schools are not on break, usually in the middle of November , beginning of December and most of January and February .

Summer and Fall can be very hot, humid, and expect thunderstorms in the afternoons.

If you can only visit in the Summertime, plan on hitting the outdoor theme parks in the morning when it’s still cool out and then spend the afternoons somewhere indoors in A/C and when it’s raining outside.

June through the beginning of November is hurricane season and is a very unpredictable time of year weather-wise. So be prepared to cancel plans or any outdoor excursions you have booked. 

Orlando is a spread-out city, but most of the top Orlando attractions and theme parks aren’t far from one another. So if the Disney World theme parks are the main activities on your Orlando itinerary, transport is quite straightforward.

If you are staying at one of the theme park resorts, you can count on there being a shuttle to transport you to and from either Disney World, Magic Kingdom or Universal Orlando and the other attractions.

If you are staying at a hotel on I-Drive, there is a great hop on hop off trolley you can purchase passes for that will take you to all of the best attractions on the main strip.

But since Orlando is such a popular destination for tourists, taxis and Ubers should be a dime a dozen and another great way to get around the city.

If you don’t mind finding and paying for parking at the different attractions then you could look into rental cars and have a more personalized experience touring different areas of Orlando. A rental car definitely gives you more flexibility, but parking can be pretty hectic, especially during peak season.

Orlando International Airport isn’t far from all the attractions, which is convenient as well!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Orlando is big and accommodation options stretch out across the city.

Because most of the activities we recommend to do during your 3 days in Orlando itinerary are close to the city center we’re recommending the following hotel options along International Drive.

This way you will spend less time driving around and more time enjoying your next family adventure in Orlando Florida! 

Located just one block off International Drive in the heart of Orlando, the Best Western Orlando Gateway Hotel offers you the most bang for your buck when it comes to proximity to things to do in Orlando.

But if you wanted to relax, you can do so with a heated pool, two outdoor hot tubs and onsite dining options.

Enjoy rooms with WiFi, flatscreen televisions and kitchenettes and catch a free shuttle from the hotel to attractions around town. 

If you’re a fan of Universal Studios then this is the place for you. At the northern end of International Drive, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort gives you great amenities for your stay.

But more importantly, you get early access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay parks.

Free shuttles transport you to/from the park and Universal’s City Walk throughout the day.

And if you need some downtime at the hotel, relax by the pool, enjoy the on-site game room and feast on a variety of meal options at the food court.

This is definitely the place to stay for a binge on all things Universal. 

If you’re looking for luxury hotels when visiting Orlando Florida, check out the Castle Hotel, Autograph Collection .

Located on the southern end of International Drive, the Castle Hotel offers a luxurious feel just minutes from all of the Orlando attractions like Hollywood Studios, Universal Orlando, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

With a pool, hot tubs, poolside bar and hotel room service it will be hard to convince yourself to go out and explore Orlando when you stay here.

But it will be nice to return to after the long and busy days in an Orlando itinerary. 

Best Restaurants In Orlando

Orlando has numerous restaurant options with choices of nearly every international flavor.

You can even find tasty meals of all sorts within the various theme parks you are bound to visit. 

Here are a few options worth checking out during your 3 days in Orlando Florida. 

For a great deal on a big Brazilian meal check out Ana’s Brazilian Kitchen .

Known for its traditional chicken and beef plates with delicious sides of various rice, beans and yucca, you’re not going to regret stopping in for a bite to eat. 

Located in Universal’s City Walk, Hard Rock Cafe will be sure to fill you up with some good, classic American food to keep you fueled up throughout the day.

Famous for delicious burgers and ribs and a wide selection of drinks, Hard Rock combines meals and entertainment in such a way that it’s worth stopping in while you’re in the area.  

As the name suggests, Edie V’s Prime Seafood offers a menu chock full of delicious seafood options.

From Chilean Sea Bass, salmon and lobster options to swordfish steaks and filet mignon, you’re covered when it comes to luxurious dining. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Chris Harvey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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19 Amazing Ways to Do Universal Orlando on a Budget (2024)

You can save money if you know how to do Universal Orlando on a budget!

I don’t want you to worry about breaking the bank for a chance at experiencing the famous wizard and the world-class theme park attractions.

Before you start your Universal Orlando budget planner, you should know that the resort has 3 theme parks with another one opening in the future plus multiple hotels to choose from and the famous CityWalk.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Universal Orlando Resort Theme Parks at a Glance:

• Islands of Adventure
• Universal Studios Florida
• Volcano Bay

With all those activities to participate in, you’ll want to know these pro tips for doing Universal Orlando the cheap way!

Can you do Universal Studios in one day?

You can if you’re super focused!

Grab your FREE Universal Orlando Resort solo guidebook here!

19 Universal Orlando Tips and Secrets to Save Money

Now that we have the basics out of the way, let go through ways that you can do Universal Orlando on a budget.

1. Shop Around

Remember that hotels are  less expensive off-site . If you do stay onsite you will get special perks such as free transportation within the property, which can save on car rental or cabs.

2. Book a Universal Orlando Vacation Package with Your Tickets

Through the  authorize vacation sellers , you will be able to get a significant discount on your  Universal Orlando Resort vacation package .  

Your theme park tickets will also get scooped up in that whole package price.

ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.

3. Use Professional or Club Discounted Rates

If you’re a part of a professional organization or travel club, always check to see if they have any theme park discounts.

Professional dental, pharmacy, and AAA organizations are just a few examples of companies that have theme park deals .

AAA  usually has significant discounts on Universal Orlando theme park tickets, so be sure to look there if you are a part of the organization.

4. Stay at an All-suite Hotel with an In-room Kitchen

This is important because it gives you the chance to save on your  dining budget .  

You can go grocery shopping and based on the planned-out meals, you do breakfast and dinner at your  hotel or vacation rental   and do a lunch at one of the parks.

Just have it all mapped out. It will cut your dining budget in half.

Recommended: Universal Orlando Resort On-Site Hotels (Everything You Need to Know)

5. Look for a Flight Leaving on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays

Those days tend to be the  cheapest to travel.  Booking your actual ticket on a  Tuesday mid-afternoon about 3 PM to 4 PM has been said to be the best time to book flights .

The industry is usually updating prices and for some reason I’ve been lucky when it comes to booking flights during that time.

Read: How to Find Cheap Flights to Orlando

6. Check Local Travel Agents for Discounts and Deals to help do Universal Orlando on a Budget

There are a lot of authorize travel agents in the Central Florida area . I personally recommend an organization that has a great reputation as a theme park vacation planner.

Travel agents can help you put your whole plan together. They usually know the different  Universal Orlando discounts and deals   that are available right away before anyone.

They also know different time frames that are best for you to book. They’re really good with when it comes to planning a  customizable Orlando vacation.

Universal Orlando Tickets: How to Get a Free Day at Universal Studios in 2024?

7. Get Universal Orlando Tickets from a Trustworthy Website and Purchase the Multi-day Park Pass

Be sure to find  discounted Universal Orlando tickets  that are one or two days short of your total vacation length.

Buy your Universal Studios Florida ticket directly from Universal’s website or from a reputable source such as  The Park Prodigy or Groupon.com. Both Groupon and The Park Prodigy usually has special rates for Orlando theme park visitors.

Save on admission to Orlando’s famous attractions with Tripadvisor TODAY!

8. Know the Universal Orlando Ticket Breakdown

There are a few options to choose from for Florida residents when buying a ticket for any of the Universal Orlando theme parks.

One day at just one of the parks (Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure) start at $119. While Volcano Bay starts at $70. Both prices depend on the season.

If it’s a busier season, then the price will be higher.

AVOID the Universal Orlando Wait Times with Express Pass: Is it worth it in 2024?

How much does it cost to go to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay?

The best option for you would be to have a 3-park-3-day ticket that starts at $79 per day if you DON’T want to park hop on the same day (or $95 per day if you want to park hop on the same day).

This gives you plenty of time to go back-and-forth among the parks. Let’s go over some alternative ticket options for you!

3-Park-2-Day Ticket Starting at $133.50 Per Day

The 3-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park Florida Resident Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to Universal Studios Florida™, Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ AND Universal’s Volcano Bay™ on the same day.

Ticket is valid for any two (2) calendar days during a sixty (60) consecutive calendar day period which includes the first day any portion of the ticket is used.

2-Park-2-Day Ticket Starting at $93.50 Per Day

The 2-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park Florida Resident Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to BOTH Universal Studios Florida™ AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ theme parks on the same day.

You can view the whole list of ticket options here and save money too!

If you will be at Universal for more than four days, maybe book only two days to go to a park. On the first day in Orlando you may be tired or jet-lagged.   Use that day to explore CityWalk or discover your resort. On your last day, you may not want to go to one of the parks and try to travel back on the same day.

*Prices are subject to change (always check official website because of price fluctuations).

How many days do you need at Universal Studios?

Each Universal Orlando Resort park needs a full day to complete. So I suggest three days if you have the time and money.

This is why I recommend the 3-park-3-day ticket for Universal Orlando Resort.

If you don’t have the time nor the money, then listen to how to do Universal Studios Orlando in one day here!

9. Take Note of the Parking Deals

Self-parking is cheaper after 6:00 p.m. (unless there’s a special event). It is FREE for Florida residents after 6:00 p.m, . which is perfect if you want to spend an evening hanging out and exploring CityWalk.

Passholder Parking Deals

• Preferred Annual Passholders get FREE self-parking and a reduced price for valet parking at the parks
• Premier Annual Passholders get FREE preferred self-parking and FREE valet parking at the parks

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

10. Do Free (or almost free) Activities at Universal Orlando

There are so many other things you can do at  Universal Orlando Resort for free …or almost free. Such as hanging out in CityWalk and exploring the beautiful resorts.

Things to Do at Universal for Free

• Take a Free Water Taxi Ride
• Enjoy the Italian piazza at Loews’ Portofino Bay Hotel
• Have fun in the Splash Zone Areas of Universal CityWalk
• Dance along with the live DJ most nights on CityWalk
• Do your own resort hopping tour

2024 Groupon Universal Studios Orlando Deal: How to Save THE MOST Money on Tickets

11. Take Advantage of Universal Orlando Freebies and Souvenirs

Hopefully your Universal trip does not dig too deep into your wallet. In case it does, take advantage of some of the free stuff you can grab while enjoying the parks.

Free Universal Orlando Items:

• Celebration buttons
• Mardi Gras beads
• Cup of water at theme park kiosks
• Transportation from hotel-to-hotel via the buses

2024 Universal Orlando Mobile Order Guide: Skip the Lines!

12. Use Discounted Travel Sites for Hotel Deals

Book portions of your vacation through website like  Hotels.com   for great hotel deals.  Hotels.com offers a FREE night special.

When you book hotel nights, vacation rentals, cars and more through their One Key program, you’ll receive One Key Cash to go towards a hotel stay. You may get one of your nights at a participating Universal area hotel for free.

Save up to 25% on mobile exclusive offers with Hotels.com TODAY!

13. Book Vacation During the Off-season

Be sure to use  Universal Orlando crowd calendars  to help you determine the best season to book your Orlando vacation. I recommend early November or mid-January.

You will be able to maximize your days and really enjoy the whole property offered by Universal Orlando Resort.

Best Times to Visit Universal Studios Florida

• Early November

These months are closely followed by April and September as still pretty decent visiting times.

2024 Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar: Avoid the Busy Days!

14. Don’t Forget About a Vacation Home Rental

A vacation home is another great option where you can get a wonderful deal on lodging for your Florida vacation. 

Top Villas   has one of the best villa rental agents in the world, offering the best homes, the best service and the lowest rates guaranteed.

I am a fan of  vacation home rentals with resort amenities   for families or friends traveling to Orlando on an extended vacation.

11 BEST Resorts in Orlando That Are Not Disney (2024)

15. Know How to Save Money on Food at Universal Orlando

If you’re not planning on being at Universal Orlando Resort for more than 4 days and you usually eat light, then I say stock up on a few snacks to store in your hotel room from a local grocery store.

If you have breakfast and dinner covered with your food stored in the hotel room, then you can plan for one meal a day (lunch) inside of the parks. This is one of my favorite ways to do Universal Orlando on a budget.

September is Orlando Magical Dining Month where high-end Orlando restaurants feature three-course, prix fixe dinners at an exceptional value. Some of the restaurants at Universal Orlando participate during this event, so you may be able to get a better dining option using this offer.

Refillable Drinks & Popcorn Buckets

You can also use refillable souvenir cups and buckets like the Coke Freestyle Souvenir Cup, the refillable buckets of popcorn, and the regular park beverage souvenir cup that can be purchased for one price and refilled throughout the day for a low cost.

You can reuse the souvenir cups on another visit and refill them at whatever the current reduced refillable charge is at that time.

Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the  latest podcast episode on Apple  or on your  non-Apple  device now!

16. Bring Your Own Snacks and Water

As mentioned briefly, having snacks and water will help hold you over between your meals. It’s also good to pack a light lunch if you want to avoid paying the cost of meals at the Universal Parks.

I usually pack a small sandwich and snacks with one meal in the park to treat myself on those solo days at Universal Orlando.

Water is very important to have especially in the severe  summer heat . Be sure your  snacks are within the Universal Orlando guidelines .

Acceptable items to bring into Universal Orlando Parks:

• Bottled water
• Small snacks that do not require heating
• Any food required for medical purposes and medically indicated nutritional supplements
• Food required for special dietary needs
• Baby food/baby formula
• Soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep

Prohibited items at Universal Orlando Parks:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Picnic lunches
• Food that requires heating or refrigeration
• Glass containers
• Hard-sided coolers
• Soft-sided coolers larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep
• Suitcases and bags with wheels
• Folding chairs
• Clothing with offensive language or content
• Clothing that represents someone as emergency personnel
• Weapons of any kind

WATCH NEXT: 10 Things I’ll NEVER Do at Universal Orlando Again!

17. Purchase Universal Orlando Souvenirs Offsite

You can use websites like  Amazon . to get quite a few of your Universal gear and swag.

Also, local stores like Target , usually have a vast collection of Universal Orlando Resort merchandise for lower retail prices.

18. Buy Ponchos, Water, and Sunscreen Prior to Your Visit

Don’t get caught up in the Orlando rain and the Universal Orlando $20 price of a poncho.

A lot of the items such as a poncho, sunscreen, and water can be bought at  Dollar Tree for as little as $1.00.

What’s the BEST Rain Poncho for Disney? These 7 Will Help You Decide for Your Trip!

19. Use Discount Websites for Cheap Orlando Activities

Get great discounts on different activities happening around Orlando .

Websites such as Groupon  has some of the best activities to do off of the Universal Orlando Resort properties.

15 Most AMAZING Indoor Activities in Orlando for Adults (2024)

My Final Thoughts on Doing Universal Orlando on a Tight Budget

I truly hope these Universal Orlando money-saving tips help you save and budget well on your next trip.

You may be thinking…

“How much should I save for Universal Studios?”

If you budget for:

• Ticket: ~ $130
• Parking at Universal Orlando ~ $30
• Merchandise ~ $70

Your total for a solo day trip to Universal Studios would be ~ $280

Overall, use the tips in this article to help cut down as much of this cost as possible!

Let me know some money saving tips you use when doing Universal Orlando on a budget in the comments section below!

If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll love these:

• First Timer Solo Tips for Universal Orlando Resort
• Universal Studios One-Day Itinerary
• Islands of Adventure One-Day Itinerary
• Best Photo Spots at Islands of Adventure
• Diagon Alley Complete Guide
• Best Photo Spots at Universal Studios
• A Celebration of Harry Potter Tips and Tricks
• 7 Ways to Enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade
• What You Need to Pack for Universal Orlando

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor , and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

(Original Article Date: March 17, 2019/Updated January 17, 2024)

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25 MOST Romantic Things to Do at Disney World for Couples (2024)

2024 complete guide to the florida state fair: food, tickets, concerts, rides and more, 2 thoughts on “19 amazing ways to do universal orlando on a budget (2024)”.

This is so helpful! My younger siblings and I (we’re all adults between 22 and 31 but young at heart) are planning a one-day trip to Islands of Adventure for next month, and we want to enjoy it to the fullest without breaking the bank. The poncho idea is GOLDEN lol. We got caught in the rain last time and ended up buying the $20 ponchos in the park. Thanks Nikki!

Congrats on your upcoming trip!!!!

The parks in Orlando sure know how to get every single penny out of you, lol. Especially when you’re in dire need. When a rainstorm is about to come, they place all the proper gear (like ponchos/umbrellas) towards the front of the store and make the prices outrageous!

Just stock up at Dollar Tree or on Amazon and you’ll be good to go 🙂

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Plan Your Dream Trip To Disney!

17 Ways to do Orlando on a Budget

August 28, 2020 //  by  Brandi Lyons //   Leave a Comment

We know visiting Orlando and cheap aren’t typically used in the same sentence, but we promise you can do Orlando on a budget! It’s absolutely possible to visit Orlando, enjoy great food, and go to the theme parks and still save money. You don’t have to go all out money-wise on your next trip to Orlando to have fun.

But how do you know when to go to save money? How do you find reputable discounts to use on your trip? And how do you find the FREE things to do when in Orlando? Follow along with us!

Here we’ve compiled the ultimate list of tips for visiting Orlando on a budget, and will help you and your family save some money on your next vacation!

Go During the Off-Season

Even though it seems like there isn’t an “off-season” anymore to vacation in Orlando, there are still some times of the year that are less crowded –  and cheaper! –  than others.

As a general rule, visiting the theme parks in Orlando will be less expensive during the least crowded times, mostly because the parks offer discounts to get people to come when they know it’s not as busy. September,  the last three weeks of January, February, and May all tend to be a little less crowded due to kids being in school and no major holidays fall during those times.

For some more Disney-specific timing, check out our article on the best times to go to Disney World – you might be able to snag a great deal if you go during the off-season!

Stay Off-Site at Disney

Disney World has some amazing resorts and staying on property has a lot of great perks, but all those perks definitely come with a cost. So what if we told you that you could stay at some AWESOME hotels with similar perks but without the price?

Well you can! There are several hotels located near Disney World but that aren’t Disney-owned – which are considered off-site – where you can score some Disney perks without the Disney price. These hotels tend to be cheaper, offer transport to the parks and even FastPass+ selections, and have shops, restaurants, bars, and pools that are top notch.

A lot of these hotels also fall into the “Deluxe” category at Disney, but you won’t pay anywhere near Deluxe prices. We’ve even made a list of our favorites !

Staying at an Airbnb Near Disney

If your family needs some more space on your next trip, an Airbnb might be a better fit for you. There are tons of cute and affordable Airbnbs near Disney World, and they are great choices for those traveling to Orlando on a budget.

An Airbnb offers more space and rooms, as well as full kitchens, at a much cheaper price than it would cost to get several hotel rooms at a Disney or Universal hotel. Airbnbs allow larger families or multiple families to save some money on their stay  – especially if you plan on using that kitchen to make some of your own meals.

There are some really fun themed Airbnbs near the parks as well as some super luxurious ones that won’t set you back thousands of dollars the way multiple rooms would – and we have a list of our favorites that are your best choices for your next trip!

Use the i-Ride Trolley to Get Around

Whether you are staying on International Drive in Orlando or not, using the i-Ride Trolley can be a great way to get around on the cheap. You don’t have to spend the money to rent a car or pay for an Uber/Lyft/taxi to take you everywhere.

International Drive is a hotbed of restaurants, shops, and attractions and is a great place to visit during your trip – especially if you are focused on Orlando on a budget. Using the i-Ride Trolley to visit all these places can cost as a cheap as $2.00 per person and $.65 for those over 65, and they also offer very affordable unlimited multi-day passes as well.

Take Advantage of Free Things at Disney

Free and Disney don’t get thrown around together a lot, but there are actually a lot of free things to do at Disney World!

Disney Springs, the outdoor shopping center at Disney World, is probably the best free thing to do at Disney and visiting is absolutely free. The Boardwalk is another free Disney location that is great to walk around and enjoy.

You can also resort hop for free, and you could take a day out of the parks to visit the different resorts and take advantage of the fun activities there! Many of the resorts offer free scavenger hunts, activities, and Animal Kingdom Lodge has animals you can watch as well.

These are just a few of the amazing free things to do at Disney, and we have a list of the others so you won’t miss out on a single one on your Orlando on a budget trip!

Get the Orlando Explorer Pass

If you’re looking to take advantage of several Orlando attractions at a discount, the Orlando Explorer Pass might be the right ticket for you. This is a pass you purchase in advance, and allows you to visit anywhere from 2-5 Orlando attractions during your trip at a discount – sometimes up to almost half off! The 2 attraction pass starts at $50 for adults, and you can visit Gatorland, the Wheel at Icon Park, and many others.

This pass can save you a lot of money off of the gate price, and can help cut down on costs if you’re playing to stay on or visit the attractions on International Drive. You can buy the tickets and pick your number of attractions here , and go save some money!

Staying on iDrive

When picking a hotel on International Drive (iDrive), there are several things to consider. Take into account the proximity to the attractions you want to see, the rating of the hotel, and the amenities it offers. But there’s something else you want to consider: does your hotel have a shuttle to the parks you plan on visiting?

Not all of the hotels on iDrive offer free shuttle service to Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Sea World, and that can complicate getting to the parks and the cost you’ll pay to get back and forth. By picking one that does offer the shuttle service, you will save some time and money on transportation.

Buy Souvenirs Outside the Park

Souvenirs in the theme parks can get pretty expensive, and if your family members have to take something home from your trips, it can be really hard to keep your budget in check. Buying souvenirs outside of the park can save money and keep you from overdoing it!

There are two outlet malls near Disney World, and both have Character Warehouse Outlets where you can buy Disney park merchandise at an outlet price! You can even bring souvenirs you buy at home from Target or Wal-Mart – if your little one loves Mickey Mouse, they’ll love the Mickey Mouse you give them during the trip – regardless of where you bought it.

Take Advantage of Military or Industry Discounts

Both Disney World and Universal Orlando offer discounts for active military members, as well as Disney World has the Shades of Green Resort where military members and their families can stay. If you are affiliated with the military and are planning a trip to Orlando, taking advantage of these discounts can definitely help with your trip to Orlando on a budget.

Many companies also offer discounted tickets and ticket offers to the theme parks, and most people aren’t even aware these are even offered. Check to see if your company takes part in Tickets at Work, or if they offer member discounts for Disney World and other theme parks.

Take the Bus from Orlando Airport to iDrive

Most people think that once they arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO) they will have to either rent a car or get a car service to take them to their hotel, but this isn’t true! The Orlando airport offers a bus service that is extremely affordable, and will take you to hotels on iDrive as well as the Disney Resort area.

The prices for trips to iDrive are only $2 per person, and the trips to the Disney area are only $4 per person! This is definitely cheaper than a Lyft or Uber, and will get you started on the right foot for your trip to Orlando on a budget.

Take Advantage of Happy Hour

Not only do many of the restaurants on iDrive take part in Happy Hour, but so do some of the restaurants and bars at Disney Springs. If you’ve ended up at Disney Springs for a free Disney thing to do, take advantage of some of the Happy Hour deals to score some great food and drinks at a discount.

House of Blues Restaurant, Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant, Paradiso 37, City Works Eatery & Pour House, Terralina Crafted Italian, and STK Orlando all offer Happy Hour specials at Disney Springs. To help choose which may be the best bar or restaurant for you to visit, check out our list of the best at Disney Springs .

Consider the Costs of Renting a Car

If you didn’t drive to Orlando in your own car or a rented one, you may need a form of transportation in order to get around Orlando and to the theme parks on your own time. Renting a car may not be the cheapest option for everyone, but it can help some save a little money on their trips.

If you’re staying at a Disney resort or a hotel that offers shuttles to and from the parks, renting a car may be an expense you don’t want to incur. Staying at a hotel can be costly enough, and taking free transportation is the way to go. Plus, it costs money to park at the theme parks and that would be on top of the rental cost.

For those staying at an Airbnb, the cost of renting a car may not be the worst thing for you to add into your budget. You’ll still have to pay for parking at the theme parks, but you’ve already saved money on your stay at the Airbnb and might be able to more reasonably fit it into your vacation budget.

Order Groceries and Pack a Lunch

Food at the theme parks is very expensive, and sometimes making or bring your own food is the better option. Whether you’re staying in a hotel or an Airbnb, ordering groceries during your trip can save you a lot of money on food.

If you plan on cooking some of your own meals during your vacation to save money, it may also make sense to get your groceries delivered. You won’t have to take time out of your trip to go shopping, or worry about getting a form of transportation in order to get there. To find out the best places to order groceries from, check out our article here !

And if you decide to get some groceries and try to cut down on food costs, try to bring lunches and snacks with you into the parks. You can bring food as long as it isn’t in a huge cooler and isn’t in any glass containers. Bringing bag lunches with you to the parks is so much cheaper than the food you’ll encounter in the theme parks, and even just bringing snacks will cut down on some of the costs.

Take Day Trips Around Orlando

During your trip to Orlando you don’t have to just visit theme parks to have a great time. Orlando offers lots of free and affordable local areas to visit and take a day away from the theme parks.

Celebration, Florida is a small town right outside of Orlando and is the town that Disney built. It was developed by the Walt Disney Company, and has kept that small town Disney charm. It’s very pretty and picturesque, and you can visit the shops and restaurants, take a self-guided tour of the town, or even a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Winter Park is another quaint area outside of Orlando. It’s a trendy town, with funky shops and great places to eat. They also offer a popular farmer’s market, and some great parks and playgrounds for kids and families.

Visit Icon Park

Icon Park is located on iDrive and is another great place to visit on your trip to Orlando when on a budget. There’s dining, shopping, an arcade, multiple attractions, and, of course, the iconic Wheel. You can visit many of the attractions for less than $40 a person, or just walk around and visit the area for free.

They often have music or tasting events here as well, and if you are lucky enough to visit during one of these times you’ll be able to have some great fun at a good price!

Rainy Day Activities

It rains A LOT in Orlando, and that can put a damper on a park day. Instead of spending money on an expensive theme park ticket when the weather is a wash out, you can visit some areas around Orlando for free or on the cheap.

Both the Crayola Experience and Ripley’s Believe It or Not are fairly affordable, and are great indoor activities. Ripley’s is less than $25 a person, and the Crayola Experience is $25 per person but you are able to go multiple times for that price.

You can also visit the multiple malls or outlet malls around the Orlando area, and just enjoy walking around looking at the sales and shops for free.

See Orlando’s Natural Beauty

If you are a nature lover and want to enjoy the great outdoors while on your trip to Orlando on a budget, we have some great suggestions for you! There are over 10 natural springs located just over an hour away from Downtown Orlando, and these are very affordable to visit – most of them are under $10 per car. These natural springs offer swimming, nature walks, paddling, and the ability to cool off away from the tourists and theme parks.

Other options for seeing some nature around Orlando are Harry P. Leu Gardens and Bok Tower Gardens. These are botanical gardens that offer over 15,000 plants to view as well as historical manor houses you can tour. You can take a self-guided tour of all the different gardens at either location for less than $15 a person – perfect for visiting Orlando on a budget.

When planning your next trip to Orlando, take advantage of some of these deals and discounts we’ve mentioned. Pick the best hotel or Airbnb for your family, find the perfect activities, and make sure you stay under your budget! Hopefully these tips and tricks will help out your family when it comes to planning, and make you feel like you truly can visit Orlando on a budget.

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18 Ideas For What to Do in Orlando, Florida

W hen you think of Orlando in Florida, your mind has probably conjured up images of the Disney Castle. And while the city is known for its theme parks, they are not the only things to do in Orlando, Florida!

Orlando has year-round beach weather, beautiful natural landscapes such as the Everglades, and endless opportunities for adventures and whole family fun.

If you’re not sure what to do in Orlando, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we share our top attractions in Orlando for those looking for the best things to see and do, where to eat, stay, and make the most out of their visit.

Is Orlando Worth Visiting?

1. wild florida everglades airboat & wildlife park, 2. go to the beaches, 3. go skydiving.

• 4. Visit Orlando's Roadside Attractions

How to avoid long lines at theme parks

6. check out the lake eola park fountain display, 7. hit the nightclubs.

• 8. Shop 'till you drop!

9. Attend a festival in Orlando

10. visit kennedy space center, 11. go tubing down the rainbow river, 12. relax in harry p leu gardens.

• 13. Be amazed at Ripley's Believe It or Not!

14. Ride a Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

15. break out of an escape room at escape game orlando, 16. check out the crayola experience, 17. get educated at orlando science center, 18. play a round of golf at topgolf orlando, where to eat in orlando, best time of year to visit orlando, getting to & around orlando, places to stay at disney, places to stay at universal studios, pin to save on pinterest.

Most people visit Orlando for the theme parks. The Walt Disney World Resort offers attractions, shows, dining and shopping on a property that is twice the size of the island of Manhattan in New York. First-time visitors underestimate how massive it really is.

Despite the artificiality that Disney Parks are known for, it’s the quintessential American vacation and it really is an experience like none other.

And with other theme parks like Universal Orlando , Volcano Bay ,  Sea World , and Busch Gardens Tampa , there are plenty of places to keep you busy.

But theme parks is not all that Orlando has to offer. It’s also surrounded by beautiful nature spots, unique wildlife experiences, excellent shopping, thriving nightlife, and many quirky roadside attractions that add to its charm. For these reasons, Orlando is definitely worth a visit.

Of course, there’s more to Orlando than theme parks, especially if you want to experience what the locals do. But if you want theme parks, below are some handy tips.

• Get the best deals on theme park tickets with Undercover Tourist
• Tips for flying to DisneyWorld

Ideas For What to Do in Orlando

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando offers plenty to keep you busy – which is surprising to many. Here’s what’s new in Orlando for 2024 .

Orlando’s top wildlife attractions  allow you to get up close with real Florida wildlife in their natural habitat.

While, many visiting Orlando may consider a trip to the Everglades National Park, know that it’s a four hour drive away. (We recommend adding to your Florida Bucket List though!)

You can however, get a small taste of this experience at Wild Florida Everglades Airboat & Wildlife Park, one of the best thing to do in Orlando for many tourists.

It’s located about an hour from Orlando on Lake Cypress, which is considered the Headwaters of the Central Florida Everglades.

Wild Florida gives a glimpse of what it’s like to explore the wild side of Florida. In their  Gator Park , there are over 200 animals on display, including exotic animals like zebras, sloths, lemurs, and Watusi.

Most people love visiting for the Orlando airboat tours, where you’ll glide through the iconic swamplands on an airboat, you get to see the diversity of this unique ecosystem.

Check out this Wild Florida Everglades tour from Orlando, Florida!

Although not directly next to the ocean, Orlando is not too far away from some of Florida’s best beaches.

From the serene shores of Vero Beach to the vibrant atmosphere of Clearwater Beach, there are many coastal havens you can run to if you want to escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

My favorite is the sun-kissed Cocoa Beach, known for its surfing culture and lively atmosphere. Cocoa Beach is just a quick 45-minute drive from the city on the Atlantic Coast, and you can find free parking at Ron Jon Surf Shop.

New Smyrna Beach is also a nice beach to visit for a tranquil beach day amidst picturesque surroundings.

While you’re there, you might as well go skydiving at Skydive Space Center , one of the highest drops in the world at 18,000 feet (5.48km).

If you’ve never been sky diving before, it’s the ultimate adrenaline rush!

What makes Orlando a great place to skydive from is the amazing, picturesque Florida coastal views you get while feeling the unparalleled sensation of free fall.

Whether you’re a first-time tandem diver or a seasoned enthusiast, the opportunity to conquer personal fears, embrace boundless freedom, and savor the unmatched exhilaration of skydiving is one of the top things to do in Orlando.

4. Visit Orlando’s Roadside Attractions

“Old Florida” is a term that is used to describe Florida in the 1950’s, before the theme parks would arrive.

Roadside Americana reigned supreme, and while many of Orlando’s roadside attractions from this era closed down to make way for more modern developments, there are still a few ticking around today..

The ones that stood the test of time, are truly the ones that are the best. Be sure to check out:

• Gatorland touts itself as the Alligator Capitol of the World, a well-deserved title. The adventurous types can take zip lines over a pool of hungry gators. If you’re up for a drive, Weeki Wachee Springs gives you the chance to see real mermaids.
• Check out Fun Spot America. While Orlando is famous for its big theme parks, riding the wooden roller coaster at Fun Spot America is like stepping back in time.
• At night, check out the Silver Moon Drive-In , one of the few remaining Drive-In Movie Theaters around. For $4 per person, you get a double-feature of first-run films from the comfort of your car.
• For a slower change of pace, visit Mount Dora, a charming town north of Orlando. They are known for their annual craft festivals each year and locally-owned shops. You’ll be sure to find a friend here.

5. Visit the Theme Parks in Orlando

If you are going to visit Orlando, then you simply must spend some time at one of the many theme parks.

Orlando alone has over 18 theme parks, not including water parks. You’ll need at least three weeks to experience it all, since many of these theme parks require multiple days to see.

For shorter lengths of stay, a visit to the Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (where you can experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction and walk down a real-life Diagon Alley) are the must-dos.

You may also want to visit Volcano Bay, Discovery Cove in Orlando, as well as ICON Park, Legoland Florida and Seaworld Orlando. You can read this helpful guide here. 

One of the newer theme parks is Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where you can find thrill rides and VR experiences, such as stepping into a VR Star Wars world.

Watch our videos of our time at Universal Orlando Resort and read all our tips for Universal Orlando Resort.

There’s no doubt about it, theme parks draw big crowds and long lines, but savvy visitors to Orlando know how to avoid them.

• September and January are generally quiet in the parks. Lines for popular attractions will generally average 20 minutes or so (much short than the 60-90 minutes in the summer).
• Disney offers FastPass , a ride reservation system that virtually eliminates your wait for several top attractions. It’s included with your park admission.
• Universal Orlando offers a similar experience, for an additional fee.

And if you want to experience Christmas decorations without the crowds, the 1st week in December is the perfect time of the season to visit any of the parks.

If you want to experience Halloween at Disney, check out this useful guide. 

Save Money on Orlando Theme Parks ! Discounted theme park tickets are hard to come by for out-of-state visitors. And when you add up an entire week’s worth of food, hotels, and souvenirs, the number can be quite staggering.

Undercover Tourist is our trusted partner that offers authentic theme park tickets at discounted prices!

At the center of the city is Lake Eola, a nearly one-mile (1.9km) lake that is the focal point of the city.

At night, the iconic Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain is lit up in a rainbow of colors and on select night, a fountain show synchronized to music will play.

The fountain display takes place at 8.00pm and 9.30pm most nights.

Lake Eola is also a great place to visit in the day if you want something more chilled to do. You can also rent a swan boat, take the kids to the playground, or simply relax on the lawns.

If you’re looking to stay up late, Downtown Orlando has several clubs that keep busy until 2 A.M.

Your best bet for dancing is on Church Street , which offers a range of clubs and bars.

Wall St., located just off Orange Ave, is another popular spot with lots of bars and restaurants. There’s a good chance you’ll stumble upon live music too.

Of course, for that late-night meal after dancing the night away, Bananas Modern Diner is a short drive away. And Steak and Shake , a popular chain in the south will give you the greasy food your tummy deserves!

If you’re staying near the theme parks, Universal Citywalk offers a variety of clubs with individual tickets available for purchase per club, or an all-in-one access pass. A movie theater and mini golf course are also available.

Downtown Disney offers nighttime entertainment with a softer touch, but drinks can be had at Raglan Road , an authentic Irish Pub.

8. Shop ’till you drop!

Orlando is a shopper’s paradise! Both the Florida Mall and Mall at Millenia are popular with both tourists and locals.

The Florida Mall has a great mix of stores for all budgets while the Mall at Millenia caters to the higher-end shopper.

For great deals, be sure to visit the Premium Outlets . You could easily spend a whole day browsing here.

Disney Springs is also a great area for shopping and dining.

Each of the theme parks offers special events throughout the year, so it doesn’t matter what time of year you visit, you can always find a festival to attend.

If you had to only hit one, visit the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in the fall. You can find sample-size plates available featuring cuisine from around the world. It’s a favorite of tourists and locals alike.

During the winter months, the Orlando Improv Festival , has grown in popularity, and every February, the Plant City Strawberry Festival draws huge crowds who celebrate the best fruit around, the strawberry!

The springtime brings the Florida Film Festival – a week of independent films with emerging and well-established industry talent, but as summer approaches, GayDays Orlando is the festival to see! It is celebrated on the first weekend in June with over 150,000 people in attendance at the theme parks.

It’s one of the biggest events in Orlando.

For the astronaut in you, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor’s Complex gives you a glimpse into America’s Space Program.

Founded in the 1960s, this iconic facility has witnessed pivotal moments in space exploration, including the launch of the first American astronaut to the Moon.

As you wander the museum, you can learn about its history and heritage, from the Vertical Processing Facility to the Visitor Complex, where enthralling exhibits and interactive experiences make learning about space exploration fun.

See towering rockets, shop for astronaut memorabilia in the gift shop, and even learn about veteran space explorers.

Be sure to sign up for the guided tour which takes you all around the facility and in the near future, one of the retired space shuttles will be on display. Get your entry tickets here.

Related post –  How to visit Kennedy Space Center on launch day

Check out this Kennedy Space Center tour from Orlando, Florida!

One of my favorite local spots is the Rainbow River , which is a great place to go tubing.

As you drift along the crystalline, turquoise waters, you’re surrounded by lush nature which makes for an idyllic backdrop as you relax in a tube.

While tubing isn’t allowed within the day-use or headsprings areas of the park, the nearby KP Hole Park provides a perfect launch point.

If you don’t have a tube, don’t worry, there are tube rentals and shuttle services available from Rainbow Springs State Park.

Load up your car with a picnic lunch, rent an inner tube and drift aimlessly away down the crystal clear, sparkling river – it’s pure relaxation!

Tubing is open from April 1st until 30th September, from 8.00am until 12.45pm.

For more relaxing things to do in Orlando, head to the alluring botanical gardens of Harry P. Leu Gardens, a botanical paradise spanning nearly 50 acres.

This idyllic haven boasts a mesmerizing tapestry of aroids, azaleas, bamboo, citrus, and an array of vibrant flora. The gardens belong to the estate of Harry P. and Mary Jane Leu, who purchased the house (now a museum) in 1936.

He was a successful industrial supply company owner with a fondness for travel, and bought back many plants and seeds to grow in his garden. The result is a beautiful garden with global plants that you won’t find anywhere else in the states.

What makes this garden unique is the dinosaur exhibit with life-size dinosaur sculptures!

13. Be amazed at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

You may have heard about the bizarre wonders at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, which has museums located all over the world.

In Orlando, you can delve into the mesmerizing world of oddities and curiosities that have made this museum franchise famous!

Within the “Odditorium,” you’ll discover 16 galleries that showcase an incredible array of unbelievable exhibits, from peculiar artifacts such as a shrunken heads and egyptian mummies, there is no shortage of weird and wonderful things to see here.

As well as the exhibits, there are also fun activities and workshops for kids, such as creating a wax mold of your hands!

Winter Park is a picturesque chain of lakes that are best seen from a scenic boat tour .

As you glide along the tranquil waterways on a charming pontoon boat, you’ll see the towering cypress trees, swamps, man-made canals, vibrant flora, and even some opulent homes.

The boat tour only carries 18 passengers, so the beauty of the area is not lost to overcrowded boats.

If you’re visiting Orlando with teenagers, a fun family activity to do is escape the room!

Escape Rooms are so much fun! You and your team have a dedicated amount of time to solve puzzles and riddles, in order to beat the game and escape the room before the time limit runs out.

If you’ve never done an Escape Room before, Escape Game Orlando is a great place for beginners, since they have a variety of rooms that cater to beginners (and seasoned escapers too!)

Whether you’re tasked with escaping from prison, pulling off an impossible heist, finding gold from the Gold Rush or launching a space ship, there is an escape room for every taste and experience level.

Unleash your inner creativity at the Crayola Experience , where creativity and fun unite!

This huge facilities, spanning over 70,000 square feet, is full of whimsical adventures, from coloring classes to demonstrations on how the crayons are made to a giant soft play.

You and your kids can sculpt, draw, and explore a kaleidoscope of ways to create unique artwork.

Get your entrance ticket for the Crayola Experience here!

Another great place to take the kids for an educational and fun day out is the Orlando Science Center , where curiosity knows no bounds.

This hands-on museum has regular events and classes for children under 4, as well as hosts a variety of interactive exhibits that delve into natural sciences and futuristic technologies.

From mind-bending displays on ecosystems to engaging experiences in teleportation and brain games, the center ignites a passion for learning in a fun way.

For golfing enthusiasts, a visit to Topgolf Orlando is a must. With climate-controlled driving bays akin to bowling lanes, this venue offers fun and competitive golf games for all skill levels.

It also has a wonderful restaurant and sports bar with a roof terrace and fire pits.

At first glance, Orlando seems to have nothing but chain restaurants. But if you have your own car, and know a local, they’ll steer you to some fantastic gems.

• Around the theme parks, Press 101 offers gourmet sandwiches and wines at reasonable prices. Live music is played on the weekend.
• For a special occasion, neighboring Seasons 52 , offers a fine dining experience with an ever-changing menu, freshly prepared food and great wines.
• In downtown Orlando, Pine Twenty2 offers locally-sourced, all-natural hamburgers that are just bursting with flavor. You can build your own or order one of the house specialities.
• For a sweet ending, stop by The Dessert Lady for freshly made gourmet cakes that are gigantic.
• Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria is located in the Milk District, a short ride from downtown (near the milk factory). They offer an eclectic array of teas and delicious sandwiches in an urban vibe.

But for a true taste of Orlando, you need to schedule your culinary visit around one of The Daily City Food Truck Events.

Scheduled on a weekly basis, rotating venues every week, 20-30 food trucks line up with every imaginable cuisine. My recommendation, go direct to the Yum Yum Cupcake Truck.

The best time to visit Orlando is in October and March.

Each month is warm enough for you to take full advantage of beaches, water parks and all the other outdoor activities, but without the humidity that the summer is notorious for.

October tends to be less crowded at the theme parks than March (popular with school spring break), but there is always the looming threat of a hurricane interrupting your trip – though the likelihood for that is minimal.

With Orlando being such a popular destination, direct routes from most major airports in the United States are almost always available and competition keeps prices reasonably affordable.

Direct flights from destinations in Europe and South America are also plentiful.

Orlando is served by both busses and rail, but the logistics of getting to the main tourist corridor are cumbersome at best. You’re better off renting a car from the airport.

Downtown Orlando is a very walkable city, and walking is the preferred way of getting around. But Orlando is a city that sprawls out, so if you’d like to visit anything not in downtown, you’ll need to travel by car.

Public transport by bus is available ( GoLynx ), but not convenient if time is important to you. You’ll need to make several transfers to get anywhere and the frequency of busses is not timely.

If you’re staying along international drive, there is a trolley that runs up and down the length of the street, making frequent stops.

Don’t forget Uber as a way to get around. This is widely used in Orlando.

Look for your rental car on DiscoverCars.com to browse all the top companies in one place.

Where to Stay in Orlando

If there’s one thing Orlando has, it’s plenty of hotels that cater to all travel budgets.

If you’re looking to stay on Disney Property the All-Star Sports Resort , the All Star Music Resort , or the All Star Movies Resort  is your best bet for the cheapest price (but still pricey).

If you have the budget, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is my favorite, while Disney’s Boardwalk is located near one of the theme parks, Epcot.

For Universal Studios, check out:

• Cabana Bay Beach Resort ( See prices and availability on Booking.com )
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort ( See prices and availability Booking.com)
• Loews Royal Pacific Hotel ( See prices and availability on Booking.com)
• Hard Rock Hotel ( See prices and availability on Booking.com)

HOT TIP: If you are traveling with a large group of friends or family, check out this 10 bedroom vacation home near Disney World.  Try and find a group of people and split the cost, as accommodation in Orlando can be expensive.

Final Thoughts

You can almost guarantee that when the rest of the country (and the world for that matter) are bundling up to keep warm, Orlando is experiencing sunshine and perfect weather all year round.

Related Posts:

• 3 things to do in Central Florida (beyond Orlando)
• 16 Spectacular Florida Vacation Spots
• 18 Best Places for Families to Visit in Florida

Do you have any tips on what to do in Orlando? Share in the comments.