Orlando, Florida, is an exciting and vibrant city with plenty of activities and attractions locals and tourists can enjoy. If you’re planning a family getaway, there are tons of fun things to do with kids in Orlando that make for an unforgettable experience.
From thrilling roller coasters at Universal Studios to interactive science exhibits at WonderWorks and unique animal encounters at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. There are countless ways for families with children of all ages to make memories they’ll cherish forever while visiting Orlando.
Whether preparing for a day trip or planning a more extended vacation, here are some of the best things to do in Orlando with kids.
9 Most Exciting Things to Do in Orlando With Kids
1. Disney World
Take a magical journey to the home of Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and all your favorite characters at Disney World. Explore theme parks, enjoy thrilling rides, and meet beloved Disney characters. From Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy with your family.
The best rides for the whole family to enjoy include Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Expedition Everest, and Mission: SPACE. These rides include sharp turns, quick drops, and thrilling heights – perfect for adventurous kids. Note that a 40-inch minimum height is required to ride most of the coasters, so check before you go.
After the rides, explore the unique character meet-and-greets, parades and shows, and fireworks displays. Also, take the chance to visit Disney Springs for unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.
2. Universal Studios Florida
Experience thrilling rides and attractions like the Incredible Hulk Coaster, Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida. There are thrill rides designed for older kids and plenty of fun activities that even younger children will enjoy.
Young adventurers can also explore Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone, which features Animal Actors on Location, E.T. Adventure, KidZone Pizza Company, and SpongeBob SquarePants. It’s a great way to introduce younger kids – and even adults – to some of their favorite characters in an interactive, safe environment.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a Universal Orlando Resort hotel stay. You’ll get massive discounts on hotel and park tickets, exclusive experiences, and you’ll be a short walking distance away from the parks.
3. LEGOLAND Florida Resort
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a theme park in Winter Haven, Florida. It’s designed for families with kids aged 2-12 and is based on the famous LEGO building blocks.
The park features different shows, attractions, rides, and interactive experiences that bring the LEGO world to life. Visitors can explore themed areas, each filled with LEGO models and sculptures, and participate in hands-on building activities.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort also features a water park and a LEGO-themed hotel, making it a complete vacation destination for families. The park offers a fun and educational experience for kids and families. It is an excellent place for kids to use their imaginations and learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts in a playful way.
4. Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is a multi-purpose space center on Merritt Island, Florida. It is the primary launch site for NASA’s human spaceflight missions and has been the center of the U.S. space program for over five decades. KSC is responsible for designing, developing, and launching spacecraft and is home to numerous facilities and resources supporting the space program.
Children and families can tour the historic launch pads, see rocket launches, and learn about the history and science of space exploration. You can also visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, which features interactive exhibits, live shows, and astronaut encounters.
The complex includes a variety of educational and fun attractions, such as a moon rock touch exhibit, a shuttle launch simulation, and a virtual reality experience that takes visitors on a journey through space. KSC offers a unique and exciting opportunity to experience the history and science of the U.S. space program and is a must-see destination for younger folks interested in space and technology.
5. ICON Orlando
ICON Orlando is a 400-foot observation wheel located in Orlando, Florida. It offers a breathtaking view of the city from the top of the wheel.
The observation wheel is a unique and fun experience and one of the best things to do in Orlando with kids and adults too. The ride is enclosed and air-conditioned, making it a comfortable and safe activity for young children.
ICON Orlando is located near other popular tourist attractions, so it can be a fun activity to add to your family vacation itinerary.
6. Fun Spot America
Fun Spot America is a family-friendly amusement park located in Orlando, Florida. The park has various rides and attractions for all ages, including go-karts, thrill rides, and family rides.
This destination is mainly known for its high-speed go-karts, a popular attraction for kids and adults. The park also features several arcades, games, and food and drinks and is an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and exciting day out.
In addition to its rides and attractions, Fun Spot America is also known for its festive atmosphere, making it a popular destination for birthdays, group events, and special occasions. Whether you’re looking for high-speed thrills or more relaxed family fun, Fun Spot America is a worthy addition to your bucket list.
7. Congo River Adventure Golf
Another kid-friendly destination you should visit is Congo River Adventure Golf. It is a mini-golf course and family entertainment center with several locations in the United States, including Florida.
The courses feature an African jungle-themed design, with lush landscaping, waterfalls, caves, and other tropical elements. These are designed to provide a fun and challenging experience for players of all ages, with obstacles and interactive elements to keep players engaged.
Congo River Adventure Golf offers other activities and attractions, such as arcade games, a treasure hunt, and a jewelry store. The facilities are designed for families and kids to enjoy friendly competition and quality time together.
8. Busch Gardens
Are your children nature lovers? They will enjoy the outdoor activities at Busch Gardens.
This theme park is known for its combination of thrilling rides and attractions, live entertainment, and up-close animal encounters. The park features themed areas with unique attractions, shows, and dining options.
You can expect to enjoy riding several roller coasters, including some of the tallest and fastest in the world, as well as gentler rides for younger kids. The park also features several animal habitats, where visitors can observe exotic animals, such as lions, tigers, and giraffes, in a naturalistic setting.
What’s more, Busch Gardens offers live shows, including animal presentations, musical performances, and acrobatics. With its combination of attractions, entertainment, and natural beauty, Busch is one of the premier theme parks in the United States and is a must-visit destination for families and tourists visiting Orlando, Florida.
9. Gatorland
Gatorland is a theme park and wildlife preserve in Orlando, Florida, United States. It was established in 1949 and is known for its large population of American alligators and other reptiles, as well as its bird shows, petting zoo, and wildlife habitats.
The park features several attractions and educational exhibits designed to showcase the beauty and importance of these fascinating creatures. Visitors can also enjoy live alligator wrestling shows, take a scenic train ride, and even participate in hands-on alligator encounters.
Thanks to its educational and interactive exhibits, Gatorland is a great destination for kids. The live animal shows are also entertaining and informative for children. Kids can see alligators and other reptiles up close and learn about their behavior, habitat, and importance to the ecosystem.
FAQs Things to Do in Orlando With Kids
Is Orlando a top destination for kids?
Absolutely! Orlando is home to some of the best family-friendly attractions in the United States, including theme parks, mini golf courses, wildlife preserves, and more. There are plenty of fun and educational activities for kids of all ages.
What is Orlando, Florida, best known for?
Orlando is mainly known for housing Disney World and Universal Studios, two of the most popular and favorite places for kids in the United States. The city is also home to several other attractions and activities.
Is Orlando, Florida, Safe for Kids?
Orlando is the perfect place to call home, offering children and adults something they can love! The city has top-notch schools and low crime rates, and the downtown area has a range of attractions that will keep you entertained for hours. The proximity to Disney World and other fun parks, playgrounds, and water parks makes it an ideal spot for families with kids.
Give Your Kids an Experience of a Lifetime
Orlando is the perfect city for your family to visit and explore. With incredible attractions, world-class theme parks, beautiful wildlife preserves, and exciting activities for kids, Orlando offers an experience you and your family will never forget. You are more likely to make Orlando your home after experiencing the magic and wonder of this fantastic city.
This article originally appeared on Savoteur and has been republished with permission by Mama Say What?!
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / VIAVAL TOURS.
