Get ready for a family vacation like no other—Orlando is calling, and it’s packed with adventures for everyone, from toddlers to teens and parents who are kids at heart! Orlando has world famous theme parks and is also called a theme park capital but has so much more than just roller coasters. It’s a city built for family fun, with magical worlds, jaw-dropping shows, splash-tastic water theme parks, and fascinating animal encounters. So buckle up for a whirlwind tour of the best Orlando holiday spots for family holiday!
Your Orlando adventure starts where dreams come true—Walt Disney World Resort! This resort is so big it could be its own city. Here’s the lowdown on Disney’s four main parks:
Where to Stay: Stay at a Disney resort to keep the magic going all day and night. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge lets you wake up to the sight of giraffes grazing outside your window!
This is your one-stop shop for thrill rides, magical experiences, and amazing shows. Universal Orlando Resort has two epic theme parks—Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure—and the fun doesn’t stop there:
Where to Stay: Try Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando, where you’ll get early access to the parks and can even dine alongside Jurassic dino décor.
SeaWorld Orlando is not your average aquarium. This park combines thrill rides with animal encounters, perfect for families wanting to dive deep into the sea (without getting wet!).
At Discovery Cove, you can experience an unforgettable swim with dolphins and explore coral reefs filled with colourful fish. This peaceful, all-inclusive day is the perfect way to unwind with the family after days of park hopping.
Where to Stay: Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld offers views of SeaWorld’s nightly fireworks!
ICON Park is home to the 400-foot ICON Orlando observation wheel, where you can take in stunning views of the entire Orlando area.
For families looking for an interactive experience, check out Madame Tussauds and meet lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebs. ICON Park also has plenty of fun dining options to fuel the family for a whole day of exploring.
Where to Stay: Hilton Orlando on International Drive is a family-friendly option with a lazy river and giant pool to cool off in.
This might be Orlando’s most unique attraction! Gatorland offers encounters with Florida’s most famous residents: alligators. Get ready to see thousands of them, from babies to giant “swamp bosses.” For those who like a little adrenaline, try the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line—where you soar over gator-filled waters! Don’t forget to check out the petting zoo and wildlife shows for even more animal fun.
Located about an hour from downtown Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center is an out-of-this-world experience, especially for aspiring astronauts.
Plan to spend an entire day here because there’s so much to see and explore! Older kids will love the hands-on exhibits, while younger kids will be wowed by the scale of the rockets and space memorabilia.
Where to Stay: Base yourself in Orlando and make it a fun day trip!
If you’re visiting Orlando during the summer, water parks are a must! Blizzard Beach at Disney and Volcano Bay at Universal offer water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that will keep the family cool and entertained.
Where to Stay: Many hotels near Disney and Universal offer packages that include water park access, making it a seamless adventure for your family.
For a chill day with less hustle, head downtown. Downtown Orlando has Lake Eola Park, which is great for a picnic or a family pedal boat ride. Downtown also offers a fun art scene, with galleries and interactive exhibits at the Orlando Science Center, perfect for curious kids.
For a day off from ticketed parks, spend some time at Disney Springs. This lively shopping and entertainment area has something for everyone:
Disney Springs has free admission, and it’s a wonderful spot to relax, shop, and dine.
Florida’s coastline is only an hour away, so if you want a break from theme parks, take a short trip to Cocoa Beach or Daytona Beach. It’s a great chance for the kids to splash in the ocean and for parents to unwind under the sun.
Where to Stay: Make it a day trip, or stay overnight at a beachfront hotel like the Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach.
The best times are between late February to early May and mid-September to early November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the parks are generally less crowded.
Yes! Disney Springs, Lake Eola Park, and ICON Park offer fun activities with free or low-cost admission. Also, consider discounted tickets for multi-day theme park passes.
Orlando offers various options like rental cars, shuttles, and the I-Ride Trolley along International Drive. Many hotels also provide shuttle services to major theme parks.
Absolutely! Most theme parks, like Disney and Universal, have numerous kid-friendly restaurants and snack stands, with options for various dietary needs.