Orlando is one of my kids’ and my favorite cities in Florida, and it is packed with so many fun things to do in Orlando with kids.
Orlando is the home of Walt Disney World Resort and plenty of other theme parks. Every kid loves the idea of visiting these theme parks, but did you know that there are many things to do in Orlando besides Theme Parks?
Our family visits Orlando at least twice a year, and each time we do something new. I hope this long list of 60 + things to do in Orlando with kids will inspire you to take a trip to Florida soon.
What are the best things to do in Orlando with kids?
- ICON Park and The Wheel
- Gatorland wildlife encounters
- Crayola Experience hands-on art
- Lake Eola swan boats
- Legoland Florida day trip
For more inspiration, check out our Best Family Vacation Spots in the US guide for even more destination ideas beyond Orlando.
How To Get To Orlando
We usually fly to Orlando Airport; however, we have also flown to Tampa Airport. Orlando Airport is about 30 minutes from downtown Orlando attractions, and Tampa Airport is about an hour away.
How To Get Around Orlando
Every time we travel to Orlando, we get a rental car. However, if you plan to visit just the parks and stay at a hotel close by, you may not need a rental car. You can take Uber or Lyft to your hotel or arrange for shuttle bus transportation.
If you do plan to explore Orlando, then a rental car is highly recommended.
If you’re traveling with kids who are older than two years old and at least 40 pounds, consider purchasing a Portable Booster Seat. This has been a game changer by allowing us to travel light and making travel so much easier.
The last time we took the kids to Florida, we had all four car seats, and although it was great, it was quite a task lugging those car seats around, gate-checking them, and installing and uninstalling from our rental car.
Where To Stay In Orlando
There are many great places to stay in Orlando. But, the best places to stay in Orlando include International Drive, Lake Buena Vista, and Kissimmee.
International Drive
International Drive, also known as “I-Drive,” is also dubbed Orlando’s “Vegas Strip.” You will find many restaurants, hotels, malls, shops, and attractions in this area.
Some of the attractions that you can visit with your kids are SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Aquatica, the ICON Orlando Ferris Wheel, and Fun Spot America amusement park, among others.
There is an “I-Ride” bus service that operates from 8 am to 10:30 pm in the area, so there is no need for a car to get around International Drive.
A few kid-friendly hotels around the International Drive area are:
How many days do you need in Orlando with kids?
- Three days minimum for one major theme park
- Five to seven days ideal for parks plus extras
- Day 1: your top pick theme park
- Day 2: a second major park
- Extra time: Kennedy Space Center or Gatorland
Lake Buena Vista
Lake Buena Vista is located in Orange County in Florida. It is the home of the famous Walt Disney World. If the main reason for your visit is Walt Disney World, then this is a great place to stay.
A few kid-friendly hotels in the Lake Buena Vista area are:
- Four
Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort - Waldorf
Astoria Orlando - Hyatt
Place Orlando/Lake Buena Vista
Kissimmee
Kissimmee is home to rental homes, villas, hotels, and restaurants in this area. It is also just a 15-minute drive to Walt Disney World.
Kissimmee is also home to many parks, including Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee Lakefront Park, Makinson Park, and many more. There is a huge mall in Kissimmee called the Loop, which is great for shopping.
A few kid-friendly hotels in the Kissimmee area are:
- Windsor at Westside Vacation Homes, which you can book on Reunion Vacation Homes.
- Margaritaville Resort Orlando
- Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center
Things To Do In Orlando With Kids
Although the main attractions in Orlando are all the fun and amazing theme parks, I have searched high and low to find a 60+ list of things to do in Orlando other than Disney and things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks / Things To Do In Orlando With Kids # 1 – 10
Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center is at the top of our list of fun things to do with kids in Orlando. Letting your kids experience what it is like to be an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center was the highlight of our last trip to Orlando.
A few attractions at the Kennedy Space Center are the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and the Apollo Program. You can also experience a rocket simulation, which the kids and I absolutely loved.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks offers educational and challenging attractions. Your children will love their attractions such as the Space Discovery Zone, Wonder Art Gallery, Physical Challenge Zone, Light and Sound Zone, Extreme Weather Zone, Imagination Lab, 4d XD Simulator Ride, Laser Tag Arena, Indoor Ropes Challenge, and more.
Icon Orlando 360
One of the best things to do in Orlando, Florida, with kids is taking a ride on a 400-foot Ferris Wheel, which is known as the Icon Orlando 360. It is part of the 1-360 complex, which is situated at the heart of Orlando. Getting a ride on this high Ferris Wheel will allow you to see scenic views of Orlando.
Fun Spot America
If you want to enjoy rides, then head to Fun Spot America. You can ride a roller coaster and drive a go-kart. Your kids will also enjoy other rides like the Splash Pad, Mini Blower, Screamer, Head Rush 360, Bumper Boats, White Lightning, and more.
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
One of the unique things to do in Orlando is play golf at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, which is a mini-golf course that has two 18-hole courses called Captain’s Course and Blackbeard’s Challenge. This golf course has beautiful landscapes and a waterfall, making it a perfect spot to spend a few hours.
Crayola Experience
Looking for things to do in Orlando other than theme parks? Then add Crayola Experience to your list. Kids and adults alike can express their creativity, explore technology, and color in ways they couldn’t have imagined.
Kids love that they can see how crayons are made, as well as create and customize their very own crayon to take home.
The Great Magic Hall
Let your kids explore the art of magic at The Great Magic Hall. Watch a magic show that is performed by tricky magicians and also be a part of it. They also have the World’s Greatest Magic Shop, and your kids can purchase some things to try their own magic tricks at home.
Orlando Balloon Rides
Take a ride in an Orlando Balloon and see the panoramic views of Orlando. Besides the views, your kids will really enjoy the experience of it all. If your kids are afraid of heights, then this may not be the best idea. Orlando Balloon Rides are definitely one of the top things for kids to do in Orlando.
Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Swim and enjoy playing at the Shipwreck Island Waterpark. It is huge and has a lot of amenities such as the water slides, pool, Cannon Ball Falls, Pirate Ship, Pirate’s Plunge Drop Slide, Lazy River, and many more. Also, they have a hotel in which you can stay.
Safari Wilderness Ranch
Take a closer look at unique animals in the Safari Wilderness Ranch. You will get to see zebras, deer, ostriches, camels, red lechwe, and more. If your kids love animal encounters, then this is perfect.
Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks / Things To Do In Orlando With Kids # 11 – 20
Gatorland
Gatorland is home to some wild animals such as alligators, wild birds, wild cats, snakes and critters, gators, tortoises, and many more. There are a lot of things to do besides having a glimpse of them. You can be a trainer, ride a Gator Gauntlet Zipline and Screamin’ Gator Zipline, and watch the Gator Night Shine.
Sea Life Orlando Aquarium
Kids love to see all types of fish, so let them experience that at Sea Life Orlando Aquarium. They will also be able to watch Unique Dive Shows, see the Jellyfish Wall Exhibit, and meet Ted, the Famous Rescue Sea Turtle.
Exotic Animal Experience
Your kids will love being able to have a unique exotic animal encounter at Exotic Animal Experience in Orlando. Yes, you can hold and pet them. Some of the animals that you will find here are sloths, kangaroos, lemurs, and muntjac deer, among others. It is one of the best things to do in Orlando besides parks.
AirHeads Trampoline Arena
AirHeads Trampoline Arena is a trampoline play area and one of the best indoor activities in Orlando. It has 107 trampolines, trampoline basketball, dodgeball, adventure arcade, and a stacked Rubik’s Cube tower that your kids will enjoy.
iFly Orlando
Your kids will experience what it means to skydive at iFly Orlando, which is one of the top-rated indoor activities in Orlando. Children as young as 3 years of age can try indoor skydiving.
Orlando Circus School
There are so many great things to do in Orlando, Florida with kids besides theme parks, such as the Orlando Circus School. The kids took a trapeze class here, and it was amazing!
They faced their fears and so much more. Such a great experience for kids 5 years old and over. I booked this experience on Groupon.
Farris and Fosters Chocolate Factory
Be a chocolatier and create your favorite chocolate at Farris and Fosters. If your kids love chocolate, then they’ll have lots of fun creating their very own chocolate delights, which they can eat when they’re done.
Happy Days Family Fun Center
Let your kids play arcade games at Happy Days Family Fun Center. Among the games are Pinball Machines, Arcade Machines, Classic Arcade Games, and 360 Play, among others.
Blue Man Group Show
If your kids like arts, then take them to watch the Blue Man Group show in Orlando. It’s a unique and incredible performance which is combined with comedy and a dance party all in one.
Putting Edge
This is an indoor mini golf arena which glows in the dark. Your kids will definitely enjoy a game of mini golf in the dark at Putting Edge, definitely very different from what they’re used to. They also have video games and snacks for an additional charge.
Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks / Things To Do In Orlando With Kids # 21 – 30
Chuck E Cheese’s
Looking for an indoor play area that your kids are familiar with and that they will love? Then head to Chuck E Cheese’s. We took the kids for them to burn off some energy and spent about two hours. The adults were able to get downtime and chat while the games entertained the kids.
Florida Everglades Airboat Tour
Head to the Everglades for a fun adventure by riding an airboat at the Florida Everglades Airboat Tour. Among their tours are Grassland Airboat Combo, Mangrove Airboat Tour, and Kayak Tours. Also, have fun watching an Animals and Alligator Show that includes tigers, lions, and alligators, among others.
Orlando Watersports Complex
This place is great for kids and adults too. The Orlando Watersports Complex is the largest wakeboard park in the U.S. You can also try paddleboarding in this complex. Other attractions include Aqua Park, Knee Boarding, Water Skiing, Wake Skating, and many more.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Take a look at odd and unusual things at Ripley’s Believe It or Not. You can take a photo with the world’s tallest man. There are also mind-boggling visual illusions that will leave your kids asking a million questions.
Helicopter Tours
One of the fun activities in Orlando includes seeing the scenic view of Orlando by riding a helicopter at Orlando Heli-Tours. You can choose from their Disney Spectacular Tour, Celebrity Grand Tour, and the Disney and Sea World Combo Tour.
We didn’t take a helicopter tour; however, the kids were fortunate enough to get an actual flying lesson from a friend who owns a small airplane. They were able to participate in takeoff, landing, and even controlling the plane on their own. This was an experience they’ll cherish forever.
Thanks to our friend Matt at Toothless Monsters for this experience.
Go On A Tour
Go on a tour with Florida Dolphin Tours and experience unique Orlando adventures such as airboat rides, a trip to the beach, and even to Kennedy Space Center. If you don’t want to bother yourself with planning your trip, Florida Dolphin Tours can definitely help you with planning excursions.
Paddleboard Orlando
Experience a paddle adventure and learn to stand up on a paddleboard in just a few minutes at Paddleboard Orlando. Also, they have paddleboard adventure trips, private paddleboard parties, and a lot more.
Jet Ski
Your kids will enjoy jet skiing at the Extreme Jet Ski of Orlando. Also, you will have access to their other amenities. These include swimming in the river. Another great Jet Ski tour company is Buena Vista Jet Ski Rentals, which operates from Lake Buena Vista.
Medieval Times
Celebrate Medieval Times and get to know things they did during this period. As well, wear crowns and pose as kings and queens of the night. Also, witness the thrilling battle of the knights and enjoy dinner.
Tree Trek Adventure Park
Tree Trek Adventure Park features many things to do, some of which include swinging on Tarzan Ropes, navigating swinging logs, leaping into Hanging Nets, climbing ladders 50 feet up, Soaring Through the Trees on Giant Zip Lines, Cross Wobbly Suspended Bridges, and balancing on Hanging Skate Boards.
Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks / Things To Do In Orlando With Kids # 31 – 40
Kelly Park & Rock Springs
See the free-flowing natural spring in Kelly Park. You can rent tubes at the facility or bring your own tubes from home. The water is shallow enough for young kids to enjoy and still feel safe.
Zombie Outbreak
If your kids like zombies aaren’t scarededd, then include having a zombie hunting experience at Zombie Outbreak Orlando. This is an interactive, live-action, and gaming experience with a goal to make the apocalyptic base clear of zombies.
Escapology
Wondering what to do in Orlando besides Disney? Play live escape games in Escapology. You can also solve riddles and puzzles. It is a fun-filled activity, and your kids will be excited to play various games such as Lost City, Under Pressure, Mayday, Who Stole Mona, and a lot more games.
Character Breakfast
If you don’t make it to Disney and still want your kids to meet Disney characters without the Disney price tag, then head to Hilton for breakfast. Characters come around each table and take photos with kids. Plus the breakfast is great!
I-Drive NASCAR Kart Racing
Drive a go-kart at the fastest indoor go-kart track in Orlando at the I-Drive NASCAR Kart Racing. Your kids will enjoy racing with one another or other go-kart drivers.
Screamin’ Gator Zipline
Screamin’ Gator Zipline is voted as the best zipline in the U.S. Experience a thrilling ride in this zipline while flying over the crocodiles and alligators. Besides, you will see the beautiful scenery overlooking which overlooks Gatorland.
Revolution Off-Road
Try more adventure in Orlando by riding an ATV, Myakka, Mucky Ducks, and a Polaris Razor on 230 acres of land with Revolution Off-Road.
Whirly Dome
Play WhirlyBall, which is the combination of hockey, basketball, and jai-alai while riding in a bumper Whirly Dome. This activity is geared more towards older kids, so keep that in mind.
Basketball Game
If you are into basketball, you should definitely purchase tickets to watch a basketball game. The home team in Orlando is called the Orlando Magic, and we were able to get tickets to the game for $12 each.
We had seats all the way in the back, but the overall experience was one that both kids and adults loved. During halftime, the kids got to play in a play area, as well as get their faces painted and character balloons all for free. We watched the game at Amway Center in Orlando.
Slingshot
Ride in Slingshot located on International Drive. This isn’t for the faint of heart, so make sure your kids are up to it before trying it out. We did something similar in New Zealand, and the kids freaked out in the beginning but eventually enjoyed it.
Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks / Things To Do In Orlando With Kids # 41 – 50
Old Town Kissimmee
Get to know classic Florida at Old Town Kissimmee. There are many restaurants and shops here, and you can easily spend a few hours wandering around. There is also a small amusement park with rides for kids.
Aquatica Park
Aquatica Park features unique attractions and is one of the biggest theme parks in Orlando. Among its popular attractions is the Dolphin Plunge, in which you can see dolphins that are swimming. Also, another exciting ride is Ihu’s Breakaway Falls.
Cirque du Soleil
Watch acrobat shows that are unique at the La Nouba Cirque du Soleil. They have amazing shows such as the Michael Jackson One, KA, Mystère, O, The Beatles Love, R.U.N., and Zumanity.
Coco Key Water Park
This is one of the most popular water parks in Orlando. You don’t need to stay at the hotel to visit Coco Key Water Park, which is a great perk. Make sure to check Groupon for deals first.
Dr. Philipps Center of Performing Arts
Watch a Broadway show at Dr. Philipps Center of Performing Arts. There are many shows such as King Diamond: The Institute North American Tour 2019, Lewis Black, and The Four Italian Tenors, among others.
Orlando Premium Outlets
Do you want to shop for popular brands at discount prices? Then be sure to visit the Orlando Premium Outlets.
Lake Eola Park
Head to Lake Eola Park for beautiful views of the Orlando Skyline. You can rent swan-shaped paddle boats, take pictures of birds and live swans around the park, as well as see turtles just hanging out.
Visiting Lake Eola is one of the best things to do in downtown Orlando and is also a great place for photos.
Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show
Become a detective and solve a mystery crime at Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show. This is a comedy-mystery show and lasts about 2 and ½ hours long.
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure
Attend a fun pirate adventure and dinner at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure. It has a cast of singers, actors, and stunt performers, among others. It is a real action-packed show with cannon blasts, which every kid is guaranteed to enjoy.
The Florida Mall
Shop at The Florida Mall, which is one of the famous malls in Orlando. There are more than 250 shops, restaurants, and more in this mall.
Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks / Things To Do In Orlando With Kids # 51 – 60
Pointe Orlando
Have fun and shop at Pointe Orlando. You can dine in, shop, watch a movie, listen to live music, or play virtual reality. If you are around International Drive, it is great to visit, but I don’t think it is worth its own trip.
Orlando Farmers Market
Taste some local food and buy produce and flowers at the Orlando Farmers Market. It opens every Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. You can also listen to live music. This is also a fun thing to do in downtown Orlando as it is located by Lake Eola.
Disney’s Boardwalk
Head to Disney’s Boardwalk, which is 100% free. Here you can see live street entertainers and musicians at Disney’s Boardwalk. Also, this promenade is recognized for its shopping, dining, and nightlife too.
Tibet-Butler Preserve
Get to know Florida’s ecosystem at Tibet-Butler Preserve. You can even hike on its trails and enjoy the ecosystem around. Also, you may join some environmental programs they conduct.
Universal’s City Walk
There are also cheap things to do in Orlando, such as visiting Universal CityWalk entertainment complex, which has free music and entertainment. Besides, you can go shopping and eat in their restaurants. You will only pay for the parking.
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tours
This Winter Park Scenic Boat tour takes you through the beautiful chain of lakes in Orlando’s Winter Park neighborhood. This is a one-hour guided tour on seven lakes and two canals.
Madame Tussauds Orlando
Get close and personal with your favorite celebrities and historical figures. And meet your favorite superheroes and see famous movies at Madame Tussauds Orlando. An unforgettable experience for you and your kids.
Skeletons Animals Unveiled
Experience and see the real skeletons of almost 400 animals at SKELETONS: Animals Unveiled. This unique educational experience for your kids will allow them to view over 40 animal skeleton exhibits.
Orlando Museum of Art
See paintings about the history of the United States at Orlando Museum of Art. Besides, you will also see some Contemporary Art, African Art, and Art of the Ancient Americans. There are about 2,400 objects of art that you can see in this museum.
Things To Do In Orlando Besides Theme Parks / Things To Do In Orlando With Kids # 61 – 69
Morse Museum of American Art
See the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany and other artists and jewelry designers at the Morse Museum of American Art. You will see paintings, lamps, pottery, jewelry, art glass, and decorative art.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Let your kids know the various Titanic artifacts at the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Your kids will learn about the huge Titanic ship and see some artifacts from when it sank.
Disney Springs
Go shop for Disney souvenirs at Disney Springs. You can also visit the Coca-Cola store, snag a boat ride, visit specialty stores, play at the LEGO store, and so much more. Check out “10 Best Things To Do In Disney Springs For Families” for more on what to do there.
The World of Chocolate Museum
Who doesn’t love chocolate? Your kids will love seeing all the chocolate sculptures when they visit the World of Chocolate Museum. My favorite part, the end when you get to taste all the yummy chocolate. Enjoy!
Harry P. Leu Gardens
Cherish nature at the 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens. It is home to beautiful flowers, exotic trees, and comely bushes. Relax and enjoy the romantic ambiance of this beautiful garden.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Other things to do in Orlando for cheap include watching live mermaids and viewing their underwater performances at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park for only $13. Also, there is a waterpark in which your kids can play and swim. There are also boat rides.
Boggy Creek Airboat Tour
This Boggy Creek Airboat adventure will take you through the Central Florida Everglades, which is home to turtles, alligators, birds, and more. Definitely a great experience for the entire family.
Orlando Science Center
One of the kids’ favorite things to do in Orlando besides Disney includes going to the Orlando Science Center. This is an award-winning science museum is perfect for kids, as it has plenty of exhibits to keep them busy. Prepare to spend a whole day here.
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
At the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, you can experience interacting with animals from around the world, such as rhinos, giraffes, monkeys, leopards, and even exotic birds.
Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park
This Wild Florida Airboats & Gator tour not only includes airboat tours, but they also have animal encounters, a gator park, a drive-through safari, and more.
Orlando Theme Parks
If you want to visit theme parks in Orlando, then this list of all the Orlando theme parks will be helpful when planning your trip to Orlando with kids.
Walt Disney World Resort
One of the top things to do in Orlando is visiting Walt Disney World. Disney is made up of four parks, each of them separate from the other. The four parks are Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios.
Magic Kingdom
Let your kids scream for joy when their favorite Disney characters come to life at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Magic Kingdom is sited on a 107-acre site and divided into six lands, namely Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Adventureland, Liberty Square, Frontierland, and Main Street.
Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of the parks in Disney’s resort with a zoo theme as well as rides surrounding this theme. It is well known for rides such as Pandora and Avatar. It is also a popular choice for young children who enjoy seeing animals around the park.
Epcot
Epcot has a science-themed attraction that has a spherical design. It consists of two areas: World Showcase and Future World. The Epcot Food & Wine festival is hosted here yearly and is very popular.
Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios features many attractions including rides, shows, shops, and restaurants. Your kids will love riding the popular Rock ‘n’ Roll Coaster and the Tower of Terror, among others.
Universal Orlando Resort
The Universal Orlando resort consists of Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay.
Universal Studios Florida
Get to see your kids’ favorite movies and their characters, such as Despicable Me, Men in Black, and Harry Potter’s Escape, among others, at Universal Studios. Let them experience the Hollywood attractions and rides. There are lots of actions and simulations in this theme park.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Universal’s Islands of Adventure features award-winning attractions and roller coasters. A visit to Universal means you’ll get to visit 8 various zones, es namely The Lost Continent, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Hogsmeade, Seuss Landing, Port of Entry. Skull Island, and Toon Lagoon, among others.
Universal Volcano Bay
This Universal Orlando park is a water park and is filled with water slides, waterfalls, and more. The park has a virtual line system enabling you to spend less time at rides and more time having fun at the park with your family.
SeaWorld Parks
There are three sister parks: SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Aquatica. Do note that although they are sister parks, admission is different for each one.
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando features aquatic-themed rides, shows, and attractions. Some attractions are Shark Encounter Tunnel, Stingray Lagoon, and Dolphin Cove. Also, your kids will have hands-on animal experiences in Stingray Lagoon.
Discovery Cove
Get a real encounter with dolphins at the Discovery Cove in their Dolphin Lagoon. You can swim with the dolphins, which is quite popular here. It also features the Freshwater Oasis zone, in which you can see animals like marmosets and otters. Do note that this resort is all-inclusive.
Aquatica
This amusement park is a water park with shows, rides,s and close-up marine animal encounters such as penguins, dolphins,s and much more. Plan to spend the whole day here, so it’s great that they offer an all-daydiningg pass.
Legoland
The mind-boggling and educational game Lego comes to life at Legoland, which is about a 150-acre theme park. Legoland also features more than attractions, rides, shows, restaurants, and shops. It also has a separate waterpark with many rides and attractions.
Where to Eat in Orlando
Besides all the amazing theme parks and attractions in Orlando, there are also plenty of really great restaurants. Here are a few recommendations below:
- Sugar Factory
- T-Rex Café at Downtown Disney
- The Melting Pot
- Yellow Dog Eats
- La Luce
- Victoria & Albert’s
- Landrey’s Seafood House
- Hot Krust Panini Kitchen
- NYPD Pizza
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
1. Is Orlando safe for families with kids?
Orlando is generally safe for families with kids, with well-patrolled theme parks, resort areas, and tourist zones throughout International Drive and Lake Buena Vista. Parents should still keep an eye on kids in crowded parks and near pools or water attractions. Most hotels and attractions cater specifically to families, making it an easy destination for first-time visitors.
2. When is the best time to visit Orlando with kids?
The best time to visit Orlando with kids is late January through early May, before the summer heat and crowds arrive. Fall, after Labor Day through mid-November, also brings shorter lines and cooler weather. Families should avoid major school holidays if possible, since theme parks get significantly busier and hotel prices rise during those weeks.
3. How expensive is Orlando for a family?
Orlando can get expensive fast once theme park tickets, meals, and hotels are added up, though costs vary widely by neighborhood and season. Families can save by staying in Kissimmee instead of near the parks, cooking some meals in a rental home, and mixing free attractions like Lake Eola Park with paid theme park days.
4. What age is best for visiting Orlando?
There’s no single best age for visiting Orlando, since the city offers activities for toddlers through teens. Younger kids tend to love character meet-and-greets and gentler rides, while older kids and teens gravitate toward roller coasters and simulator rides. Most attractions welcome every age, making Orlando an easy trip for multi-generational families.
Tips for Visiting Orlando
- Consider purchasing a GO Orlando card to save on attractions.
- Orlando’s Restaurant Row is a great place to find several restaurants to choose from.
- The closest beach to Orlando is Cocoa Beach, which is 45 minutes away.
- Disney Springs and Universal City Walk are free to visit.
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find the best flight deals with Skyscanner. It searches airlines and travel sites around the world so you can compare routes, schedules, and prices in one place.
Book Your Accommodation
Book family-friendly hotels, apartments, resorts, and vacation rentals with Booking.com. It’s an easy way to compare accommodations and find the right fit for your family and budget.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can help protect your trip in case of unexpected delays, cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Before your next international trip, check Nomad Insurance for coverage options.
Want to Travel for Free?
Travel credit cards can help you earn points and miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. Check out my recommended travel credit card resources to start making your travel budget go further.
Need a Rental Car?
Use Discover Cars to compare rental car options and find competitive rates worldwide. It’s a simple way to compare prices and find the best option for your trip.
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip?
Viator makes it easy to discover tours, attractions, day trips, and local experiences. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or unique adventures, you’ll find plenty of options to enhance your trip.
Shopping for Travel Essentials?
From packing organizers and travel gear to family travel must-haves, you can find many of my favorite travel essentials on Amazon.
Ready to Book Your Trip?
If you’d like extra support planning your next adventure, explore curated travel experiences through Rooted Journeys, where we help families discover meaningful and memorable travel experiences around the world.
