8 Best Theme Parks in Orlando
Orlando Theme Parks
The best theme parks in Orlando, predictably, are dominated by Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. The reason is simple: these aren’t just 2 separate parks, but whole worlds of family-friendly fun. With around a dozen different parks between them, there are numerous shows, performances, and dining and nightlife hubs. Ticket options here are flexible with single-day, multi-day, and park-hopper passes available.
Away from Mickey Mouse and Co., Orlando does have some other excellent theme parks, with all the usual rollercoasters and rides for a fun day out, and normally at half the price. Below, we give you a rundown of the best theme parks in Orlando and across the surrounding Central Florida area.
1. Disney’s Magic Kingdom
The star park in Disney’s collection
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Group
Magic Kingdom retains its place as the premier amusement park for those looking to be dazzled by their favorite characters come to life and experience that unmistakable, extraordinary Disney charm. Founded in 1971, it was the first attraction to open at Orlando’s sprawling Walt Disney World and has become the world’s most visited theme park. And for good reason.
Spilt into 6 different zones across an enormous 107-acre site, jaw-dropping thrill rides and record-breaking rollercoasters are themed around Disney movies new and old. The shows are world-class, and you can’t leave without visiting one of the amazing gift shops. For the best spot to view the Happily Ever After fireworks, we recommend the middle of Main Street. Read more
Location: Bay Lake, FL 32836, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 407-939-5277
Disney’s Magic Kingdom
2. Universal Studios
An immersive movie-themed amusement park
Good for: Families, Photo
One-half of the wider Universal Orlando complex, Universal Studios draws in bumper crowds with its long line-up of Hollywood-inspired rides and attractions. Get up close with naughty yellow minions from Despicable Me, fly across Springfield with the Simpsons, ward-off alien attacks in the MEN IN BLACK simulator, or get lost in a world of magic at Harry Potter’s Escape from Gringotts ride.
The action here is more focused on delivering an immersive movie experience, with state-of-the-art technology used throughout the range of simulators. The fun doesn’t stop there either, as there are numerous games and magical attractions throughout. You didn’t hear it from us, but if you wake up the Mystic Fountain, it might play music for you. Read more
Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 407-363-8000
Universal Studios
3. Epcot
A showcase of global culture and innovation
Good for: Families
Epcot’s huge spherical design is one of the most instantly recognizable images of Disney World. This science-themed attraction has 2 areas: Future World, demonstrating human endeavor and innovation though educational entertainment, and the World Showcase, a celebration of cultures.
Highlights at this vast park include seeing the evolution of human inventions on Spaceship Earth and exploring the beautiful outdoor trail that is Journey of Water. There’s nearly always a magical festival at Epcot, so expect a host of dedicated special booths, displays, and dining options. Also, the hottest time of the day is between 1 pm and 4 pm, so it’s best to reserve mealtimes at restaurants during these times. Read more
Location: Bay Lake, FL, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 407-939-5277
Epcot
4. Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Where movie magic comes alive
Good for: Families, Photo
With 6 main areas dedicated to fantastical worlds from film, television, music, and theater, Disney’s Universal Studios draws over 10 million visitors a year. Accompanied by an aesthetic that celebrates the charm of the Golden Age of Hollywood, you’ll be able to delve into your favorite Disney worlds through incredible thrill rides, sing-along shows, stunt displays, and behind-the-scenes exhibits.
The park’s centerpiece is the infamous Hollywood Tower Hotel, the site for one of the world’s most popular thrill rides: The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Take your time admiring the incredible theming, but don’t worry if you don’t want to ride this hurtling drop tower, because you can exit the ride in the boiler room before it really gets going. Read more
Location: Bay Lake, FL 34747, United States
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 407-939-5277
Disney's Hollywood Studios
5. Universal Islands of Adventure
Where superheroes, dinosaurs, and wizards roam
Good for: Families, Photo, Adventure
Universal’s Islands of Adventure has received international awards for its extensive range of rollercoasters and attractions in 8 amazing, themed zones. From saving the world with your favorite Marvel superheroes to discovering ancient dinosaurs to flying mythical Harry Potter beasts, this theme park is bursting with fun experiences.
Along with the spectacular rides there are famous characters waiting for selfies around every turn, as well as plenty of playgrounds for little ones to run around. With so much to do, it’ll be hard to fit it all in one day. Thankfully, multi-day passes are available, so you save more for each extra day you buy. Read more
Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 407-363-8000
Universal Islands of Adventure
6. Legoland
Three incredible parks in 1
Good for: Families, Photo
A 150-acre theme park based on the iconic Danish-invented construction toys, Legoland features over 55 rides, shows, and attractions. Tour Miniland USA, a collection of famous American landmarks built with over a staggering 32 million Lego bricks. Hop on a Lego horse for a jousting competition before embarking on a safari ride.
After exploring the main park, head to the waterpark and cool off in the wave pool and zip down water slides. Younger ones may prefer the Peppa Pig park where they can ride Daddy Pig’s Rollercoaster and soar through the sky on Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride. If you want to experience all 3 parks, purchase multi-park tickets, ideally in advance if you’d like to save money. Read more
Location: 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 888-690-5346
Legoland
7. Aquatica
A tropical water wonderland
Good for: Families, Adventure
A mere 10 minutes south of Downtown Orlando lies Aquatica, one of North America’s most visited water parks. Alongside all the essentials like slides, rapids, and high-speed flumes, Aquatica also delivers a few unique attractions. The Reef Plunge slide zips you through a water shoot past actual dolphins, and they’ll even try to race you if you’re lucky. Alternatively, brave a heart-stopping drop with Ihu’s Breakaway Falls.
Once you’ve had your fill of Aquatica’s many slides and rides, lounge on one of the pristine, sandy beaches or drift along a lazy river soaking up the sun. To save time and money, consider the All Day Dining package that ensures you and your family are fed all day long. Read more
Location: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL 32821, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 407-545-5550
Aquatica
8. Fun Spot America Theme Park
Home to one of the world’s tallest SkyCoasters
Good for: Families, Photo
Fun Spot America is one of the few independent theme parks in Orlando, located just off International Drive. You’ll find plenty of adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters, go-karting tracks, and a whole bunch of attractions for younger kids to enjoy like a carousel and a mini-drop tower.
Fun Spot’s claim to fame is the 250 ft SkyCoaster that’ll have you soaring through the sky as if you’ve just hopped out of a plane. After all those thrills, which are usually open until midnight, cool off at the interactive splash pad or in a comfortable private cabana. If you don’t want to experience any rides yourself and simply want to drive your kids on the go-karts, purchase a Chauffer Pass at a discounted rate.
Location: 5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 407-363-3867
Fun Spot America Theme Park
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