23 Best Things to Do in Orlando With Kids — From Theme Parks to Nature Experiences

Theme Park Adventures

No trip to Orlando is complete without experiencing its incredible theme parks. Here are some must-visit destinations:

1. Walt Disney World Resort: Explore four distinct theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom), each offering unique attractions, characters, and dining experiences. From thrilling rides to captivating shows, Disney World promises a magical adventure for the whole family.
2. Universal Orlando Resort: Immerse yourselves in the worlds of Harry Potter, Marvel superheroes, and dinosaurs at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Don't miss the high-octane thrills of the Incredible Hulk Coaster or the immersive experiences of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
3. SeaWorld Orlando: Discover the wonders of the ocean at SeaWorld, featuring captivating animal shows, thrilling rides, and interactive exhibits. Learn about marine conservation and get up close with dolphins, whales, and other fascinating creatures.
4. LEGOLAND Florida Resort: Perfect for younger children, LEGOLAND offers a brick-tastic adventure with LEGO-themed rides, shows, and attractions. Explore MINILAND USA, build your own LEGO creations, and cool off at the LEGOLAND Water Park.
5. Discovery Cove: Enjoy a more intimate and immersive marine experience at Discovery Cove, where you can swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish, and relax on pristine beaches. This all-inclusive day resort offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Beyond the Theme Parks: Exploring Orlando's Diverse Attractions

While the theme parks are a major draw, Orlando offers a plethora of other activities to keep the whole family entertained:

6. ICON Park: Take a ride on The Wheel, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel offering breathtaking views of Orlando's skyline. Enjoy other attractions like Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
7. Gatorland: Experience a true Florida adventure at Gatorland, the "Alligator Capital of the World." See thousands of alligators and crocodiles, watch exciting wrestling shows, and zip line over the alligator swamp.
8. WonderWorks Orlando: Spark your curiosity at WonderWorks, an upside-down amusement park for the mind. Explore interactive exhibits covering science, technology, engineering, and art.
9. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando: Discover the bizarre and unusual at Ripley's Believe It or Not!, featuring oddities, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that will amaze and entertain the whole family.
10. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games Orlando: Get your adrenaline pumping at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, offering high-speed karting, arcade games, laser tag, and more.

Nature and Outdoor Adventures

Escape the crowds and discover Orlando's natural beauty with these outdoor activities:

11. Wekiwa Springs State Park: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Wekiwa Springs, hike through scenic trails, and kayak or canoe along the Wekiwa River.
12. Lake Eola Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Lake Eola, rent a swan-shaped paddleboat, and catch a performance at the Walt Disney Amphitheater.
13. Harry P. Leu Gardens: Explore 50 acres of beautiful botanical gardens, featuring themed gardens, walking paths, and a historic home museum.
14. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures: Experience the thrill of an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades, spotting alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
15. Forever Florida Ziplines and Adventures: Soar through the treetops on a thrilling zipline adventure at Forever Florida, also offering horseback riding, wildlife encounters, and more.

Educational and Cultural Experiences

Combine fun with learning with these educational and cultural attractions:

16. Orlando Science Center: Engage in hands-on learning at the Orlando Science Center, featuring interactive exhibits covering science, technology, engineering, and math.
17. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Journey into the world of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, located about an hour east of Orlando. See rockets, spacecraft, and astronaut exhibits, and learn about the history of space travel.
18. Crayola Experience Orlando: Unleash your creativity at the Crayola Experience, where you can create your own crayons, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about the art of crayon making.
19. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition: Step back in time and experience the tragic story of the Titanic at this moving exhibition, featuring artifacts recovered from the wreck site.

Relaxation and Entertainment

Unwind and enjoy some quality family time with these relaxing and entertaining options:

20. Pirate's Dinner Adventure: Enjoy a swashbuckling dinner show at Pirate's Dinner Adventure, featuring sword fights, acrobatics, and plenty of pirate-themed fun.
21. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: Travel back in time to the medieval era at Medieval Times, where you can enjoy a four-course feast while watching knights compete in jousting tournaments.
22. Shopping at Disney Springs or Universal CityWalk: Spend an evening exploring the vibrant shopping and dining districts of Disney Springs or Universal CityWalk, offering a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
23. Pool Day at Your Resort: Sometimes, the best vacation memories are made simply relaxing by the pool. Many Orlando resorts offer amazing pools with water slides, lazy rivers, and other fun amenities.

Planning Your Trip

To make the most of your Orlando vacation, consider the following:

• Travel Seasons: Orlando is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
• Accommodation: Choose from a wide range of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals to suit your family's needs and budget.
• Transportation: Consider renting a car to explore Orlando's diverse attractions, or utilize ride-sharing services or public transportation.
• Tickets and Reservations: Purchase theme park tickets in advance to save time and money. Make reservations for popular restaurants and attractions, especially during peak season.

Quick Guide Chart

Here's a quick reference chart to help you plan your Orlando adventures:

With its incredible variety of attractions and activities, Orlando is the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation. By exploring beyond the theme parks and embracing the city's diverse offerings, you can create a truly unforgettable experience for your kids and yourselves.