Orlando is a jam-packed, family fun, adventure paradise. Some might say that the city has a bit of a reputation for going a little overboard when it comes to making your kids happy. It has a remarkable ability to bring out the big kid in all of us. We don’t know whether it’s the amusements or theme parks, but there is a certain something about the place that makes you want to play.
Magic Kingdom
Nobody could ignore Disney’s Magic Kingdom, the much vaunted and globally recognizable theme park. The Magic Kingdom is actually broken up into six themed areas, all designed to make our dreams come true. It’s an incredibly popular tourist destination so expect big crowds. Hotel prices nearby can be a bit steep too, so look out for a Hotwire deal for cheap hotels.
Once you get to the magic kingdom make sure to check out the Magic Carpets of Aladdin, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Space Mountain. Beware, though, Space Mountain has some big drops so it’s not for the faint-hearted.
The park plays host to its legendary entertainment. There is the usual cast of Disney characters, live stage shows, and firework extravaganzas.
Universal Orlando
If you’re a big movie buff, then you’ll probably also want to drop in on Universal Orlando. For those that don’t know, it’s a theme park entirely owned by NBC Universal and offers a distinct movie theme. The park is host to more than 25 rides, ranging from a Harry Potter themed multi-dimensional experience to becoming one of Gru’s minions. Don’t forget that this summer, the park will open a new King Kong themed ride, Skull Island.
Like the Magic Kingdom, Universal Orlando hosts its own live shows. Shows run daily and feature all your beloved characters. They also feature larger than life floats, state of the art technology and hundreds of street performers.
Although you might not expect it, the park also hosts some of the best fine dining in the state. Check Mythos Restaurant and Lombard’s Seafood Grille for the best food.
Discovery Cove
If you love wildlife, Discovery Cove is a very special theme park in that it features its own tropical reef, where guests can swim with thousands of tropical fish.
The park also hosts three large aviaries containing some of the world’s most unusual tropical birds. If you or your kids love parrots and toucans, this is the place to go. What is so amazing about the park is the degree of landscaping. There are beaches, waterfalls, and rainforest environments. It’s a beautiful backdrop if you go swimming with dolphins.
Don’t forget, the park has a maximum capacity of 1,200, so you’ll need to make sure that you have made your reservation well in advance.
There’s plenty more to explore, though, so make sure you branch out a bit beyond the theme parks. Well, if your kids will let you.