Thanks to its world-famous theme parks, Orlando is one of America’s most popular tourist destinations. But there’s more for families to enjoy than just thrilling roller coasters and water slides.
We’ve compiled the top ten best family-friendly activities the city has to offer, from outdoor adventures like Discovery Cove to activities with reptiles in Gatorland. Of course, no list would be complete without the Walt Disney World Resort. Let us help you plan your next family trip.
Book Your Stay at the Walt Disney World Resort
The Walt Disney World Resort is, perhaps, the most iconic and famous family-friendly attraction in Orlando. Each year, millions of visitors flock to the resort, which offers four theme parks to choose from: the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studies, and Animal Kingdom. Each of these gives visitors unique attractions, special shows, and experiences with beloved Disney characters.
Kids can meet their favorite Disney princess, experience thrilling rides like the new Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind or have fun with water at the Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. A visit to this resort will be one your family will never forget.
Experience Universal Studios Florida
Another famous theme park, Universal Studios Florida, is perfect for families with movie buffs and thrill-seekers. Fans of popular films and TV shows, like Harry Potter, Transformers, and Jurassic World, will enjoy the park’s feature rides and attractions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, one of the more popular attractions where you can explore Diagon Alley, ride the Hogwarts Express at Hogsmeade Station, and enjoy a Butterbeer.
Other popular rides include Revenge of the Mummy and the Jurassic World VelociCoaster. But for those who aren’t thrill seekers, there are still plenty of activities like shows and games, such as the Hard Rock Live Orlando and Hollywood Drive-In Golf.
Spend the Day at SeaWorld Orlando
For families interested in marine life, SeaWorld Orlando is the perfect attraction. The aquatic-themed park lets visitors enjoy a variety of activities like animal encounters with sharks in one of the longest underwater tunnels in the world and the Stingray Lagoons, which allows visitors to interact with these majestic creatures.
SeaWorld also features outdoor presentations with Orcas and Dolphins that the family would love and rides like the thrilling Infinity Falls.
Discover the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, in NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, is the ideal attraction for families interested in space travel and exploration. The center is the perfect blend of fun and education, allowing families to learn about NASA’s current missions and explore the history of space exploration, such as Apollo 11.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers thrilling activities such as a rocket launch simulation, a tour of the Rocket Garden, and educational programs. Kids can meet an astronaut and touch a moon rock. It’s a memorable experience for the whole family.
Have Fun at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
The LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a dream come true for families with younger children. The resort has three parks: a Theme Park, Water Park, and Peppa Pig Theme Park. They also have seasonal events like Brick-or-Treat and Holidays at Legoland.
Families can also explore MINILAND USA, where they can see iconic landmarks and cities made of over 32 million LEGO bricks.
Other popular attractions at the resort include the Flying School, a suspended roller coaster letting visitors soar in the sky, and the famous Dragon roller coaster.
Experience Gatorland
One attraction unique to Florida, Gatorland, is perfect for families looking for a different experience. Visit the park to see alligators, crocodiles, and Florida wildlife up close. Enjoy thrilling activities like zip lining and the Gator Jumparoo.
There are more mellow attractions for younger kids too, as the park features a petting and feeding zoo with barnyard animals. Families won’t want to miss the unforgettable experience of seeing rare white alligators or feeding three of the largest tortoise species in the world.
Immerse Yourself in the Crayola Experience
Crayola Experience is great for kids on a rainy day. They can make crayons, melted wax art, and color pages with stars. It also has events like OceanX Adventure, which mixes creativity and ocean exploration.
While there, don’t forget to check out the Crayola Store, the world’s largest collection of Crayola products and souvenirs.
Visit ICON Park
For families looking for diverse attractions and experiences, Orlando’s ICON Park is a popular destination. The entertainment complex offers visitors rides, museums, games, and more. ICON Park’s main attraction, however, is its 400-foot-tall observation wheel, dubbed The Wheel, which offers visitors stunning views of the city.
Experience unique gaming and Madame Tussaud’s with Zero Latency VR. ICON Park doesn’t just offer entertainment; there are various dining options at the park’s many restaurants and bars and shopping.
Challenge Yourself at Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park
Those seeking thrilling outdoor adventures should visit the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park. Featuring aerial obstacles, zip lines, and other challenging activities, visitors can choose from various courses with different difficulty levels.
There are kid-friendly obstacle courses and 97 aerial challenges available. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to zip line over the lush treetops on the park’s 425-foot giant zip lines.
Explore Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove is the perfect destination for those searching for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy a family-friendly all-inclusive resort with dolphin swims, snorkeling, and unlimited food and drinks.
The resort isn’t just for aquatic life, though. Families can also visit the Explorer’s Aviary and hand-feed exotic birds or float down the Wind-Away River. There are also private cabanas and pristine beaches, giving visitors the ultimate relaxing experience.
Orlando’s 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities
From iconic theme parks, like the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios, to unique attractions, such as Gatorland and the Crayola Experience, Orlando offers fun and adventure for the whole family.
Nature lovers, movie buffs, and thrill seekers will all find plenty to enjoy in this popular tourist destination. If you’re planning your next family trip, Orlando has everything you’re looking for and more.
