Orlando, the king of theme parks, is an ideal vacation destination for both the young and the young at heart. If you are a fan of amusement parks, entertainment, Disney movies, and live shows then you are bound to have a fantastic time in Orlando!
Add in sunny skies, warm temperatures, amenity filled resorts, and affordable accommodations and you have yourself one of the best vacation destinations. Many of the most entertaining things to do in Orlando revolve around Walt Disney World and the many other theme parks located in the area.
Check out my Top 10 Things to do in Orlando!
One of the most well-known theme parks in the world, Magic Kingdom is fun for everyone, at any age! I recommend staying for the nightly firework show and parade. There are so many great themed rides here that will entertain everyone in your party. Can’t miss rides include: Pirates of the Caribbean, The Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain, and Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Hollywood Studios is the most entertaining park in my opinion. There really is so much to do at this Disney theme park; you could really use 2 full days exploring the many exciting rides and shows. Can’t miss attractions include: Aerosmith Rock n’ Roll Coaster, Fantasmic!, the Indiana Jones Stunt Show, and The Tower of Terror.
Epcot lets you tour different food and drinks from all different countries “Around the World.” Epcot offers great food, entertainment, rides, and shopping all rolled into one. Make sure to plan a full day as lines are long and being a huge park there is tons to explore. Can’t miss attractions include: Soarin’ and Spaceship Earth.
Islands of Adventure is the park to visit if you are looking for the most thrills and roller coaster rides. The new Wizarding World of Harry Potter is simply amazing. Be sure to buy a 2 park pass so you can enjoy both Diagon Alley (at Universal) and Hogsmeade (at Islands of Adventure). Taste a delicious butterbeer, purchase your own wand, & enjoy the themed shops, restaurants, and rides - it is definitely a full day activity in and of itself (consider staying at an Universal resort where you get an hour early admission).
Can’t miss attractions include: Jurassic Park River Ride, Dudley Do-Right Ripsaw Falls, Hollywood Rip Rock Ride It, The Hogwarts Express, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
Universal Studios is home to all the movie themed rides, however there are also plenty of shows such as the creative Horror Makeup and The Blues Brothers show. Make sure to put the 4-D Simpsons ride on your list – what a fun time! Can’t miss attractions include: Revenge of the Mummy, Men in Black, Harry Potter and the Escape from Grigotts, and ET.
The nightly Wishes Nighttime Spectacular firework show with the Magic Kingdom in the background is an amazing experience; in fact, we went back twice after seeing it on our first night. It was that good! Check the schedule as times may vary depending on the season.
Universal CityWalk is a fun place to head over to after you have finished your day at the park. There are plenty of bars, shops, and themed dining including the upbeat Hard Rock Café Orlando. At CityWalk, you can keep having fun well after the park closes!
Animal Kingdom is not the best of the Disney parks, but still worthy of a half day visit. The main attraction here is the Expedition Everest ride, a fun roller coaster with cool special effects and surprises. In addition, there are plenty of animals to see and a fun Kilimanjaro safari ride to keep you entertained for at least half a day.
Surprisingly, many people don't know that Orlando is home to many gorgeous parks and preserves. Tibet Butler Nature Preserve is located just minutes from the theme parks and offers a variety of quiet trails to take in the gorgeous natural views.
Plan at least one day away from the parks to explore the natural beauty surrounding the man made businesses! Other beautiful natural areas include Lake Baldwin, Lake Eola, Kraft Azlea Park in Winter Park. If you are willing to drive a bit, Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland (30 min outside of Orlando), is home to a trail called "Alligator Alley," named as so for the high population of gators!
Winter Park is a charming small town just minutes from Orlando. Here you can take a fun & scenic narrated boat ride through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes. Along the way you will pass gorgeous mansions, see all different types of exotic birds, all while enjoying peaceful views of the lake. Passing through the tree lined canals really takes you away from the theme park congestion (if just for a bit).