Top 10 attractions and theme parks in Orlando, Florida

Orlando in Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. More than 60 million visitors a year visit the city with the best theme parks in the world every year. And for good reason. My wife and I also come here at least once a year just to have fun. You can find lots of videos of sights and theme parks in Orlando on my YouTube channel. And of course also in this blog post.

Lake Eola in Orlando
At beautiful Lake Eola in Orlando

This vibrant city has something for everyone, from theme parks and outdoor adventures to art and culture.

Not sure if a trip to Orlando is right for you? Here are the top 10 reasons to visit this wonderful city.

The best theme parks in the world: A day at the theme parks in Orlando

Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida
The Cinderella Castle – Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida

Orlando is home to the world’s most popular theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. These parks offer endless entertainment for visitors of all ages.

A day at one of Orlando’s theme parks is an experience like no other. With so many different parks, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled rollercoaster ride or a leisurely stroll through an enchanted kingdom, you’ll find it all in Orlando.

Theme parks can be overwhelming

With so many theme parks to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to visit first. If you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and relax. The best way to approach planning your day at the theme parks is to first think about what kind of experience you want.

Do you want to feel like you’re part of your favorite movie? Or would you rather experience the thrill of a roller coaster ride? Once you know what kind of experience you’re looking for, choosing the right park is a piece of cake.

Universal Studios Orlando: My No.1 – The Universal Orlando Resort

Here I am again at Universal Studios Orlando

Orlando is a mecca for travelers from all over the world, and one of the city’s most popular attractions is the Universal Orlando Resort. This resort consists of two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, as well as a water park, Volcano Bay. In this guide, we’ll look at what each of these parks has to offer so you can make the most of your stay at Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida Archway
We are so excited to walk through the entrance again

This park is home to some of the most popular rides and attractions based on blockbuster movies and television series. Some of the most popular themed areas and rides include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Transformers: The Ride-3D, Rip-Ride-Rockit (a breathtaking rollercoaster), Minions Ride, Escape from Gringotts, Men in Black and The Simpsons Ride.

Rip Ride Rockit
Vertically up, the anticipation rises… Rip Ride Rockit

In addition to the rides, there are also live shows and meet & greets with the characters throughout the day. You should definitely plan at least a full day to explore everything Universal Studios Florida has to offer.

Islands of Adventure

Hogwarts Castle
Hogwarts Castle

Islands of Adventure has more roller coasters than its sister park, Universal Studios Florida. The most popular rides include The Incredible Hulk Coaster, the new Velocicoaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Doctor Doom’s Fearfall and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

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The park also has its own area with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and Marvel Super Hero Island with the fantastic Spiderman ride.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster in Islands of Adventure
The top hat of the Jurassic World VelociCoaster in Islands of Adventure is impressive

As with Universal Studios Florida, you should plan a whole day to experience everything Islands of Adventure has to offer.

Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay is the water park of the Universal Orlando Resort and a true paradise for water rats. With the volcano, which can be seen from afar, as its centerpiece, Volcano Bay offers something for everyone. Thrill seekers will love a ride on the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, while families can relax in one of the many hot springs or float down one of the lazy rivers. No matter how old you are or how adventurous you are, you’re sure to find something fun to do in Volcano Bay.

No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be something for you at Universal Orlando Resort. With two theme parks, a water park and countless rides, shows and attractions, you could easily spend several days here and still not have seen everything the resort has to offer. Whether you’re looking for thrills or relaxation – or a bit of both – you should add Universal Orlando Resort to your travel plans!

Walt Disney World Resort – The best choice for families with younger children

The Magic Kingdom ferry will take you from the parking lot to the entrance

If you’re looking for an experience that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a beautiful dream, then Walt Disney World Resort is the place for you.

With four different theme parks, there is something for everyone at Walt Disney World Resort. Stroll along Main Street USA in the legendary Magic Kingdom Park or explore the exotic animals in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park.

Or are you a Star Wars fan? Then Disney’s Hollywood Studios is your theme park. And if you want to travel the whole world in one day, you should take a closer look at Epcot. No matter which park you choose, you’re sure to have a magical day.

A beginner’s guide to visiting the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando

At the end of Main Street sits the magical Cinderella Castle. A beautiful sight

Ah, the happiest place in the world! What could be better than seeing Mickey Mouse, riding some of the best rides in the world, meeting princesses and eating your way around the world – all in one place?

If you’re thinking of visiting the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, then you’ve come to the right place. In this beginner’s guide, you’ll find all the information you need to plan an unforgettable vacation.

When you should go

The fireworks shows are always a highlight of a visit to Disneyworld

If you want to avoid the crowds (and the heat), the best time to visit Walt Disney World is during the fall or winter months. October and November are ideal as they offer mild weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Keep in mind, however, that Christmas and New Year’s are very busy times, so you should avoid them if possible.

If you can’t come in the fall or winter, spring is also a good time to visit. The weather is pleasant and there are often discounts on hotels and parking passes. Just be aware that spring break is busier, so plan accordingly. Summer tends to be the busiest time of year at Walt Disney World. So unless you have issues with large crowds and hot weather, we recommend avoiding this time if possible.

What to expect

In Epcot

Walt Disney World is huge! The resort covers more than 40 square miles, making it about twice the size of Manhattan. Due to its size, we recommend staying at least four days to see everything the resort has to offer. But there’s no shame in spending one or even two weeks here – you can easily spend that much time and still not see everything.

Park tickets

Highway 192 Orlando
The legendary Gift Shops on Highway 192 at Walt Disney World

Buy your park tickets in advance (and don’t forget your reservation) so you can avoid long lines at the ticket booths when you arrive. Once you have your tickets, download the My Disney Experience app so you can keep track of ride wait times, use Genie and more. You can do almost nothing in the park without the app. Unless you want to stand in a waiting line all day. But that’s what awaits you anyway.

Speaking of Genie: with this service (currently priced at 15 euros per person/day), you can bypass the “normal” queue for certain rides and attractions by making a reservation in advance. You can then queue in the new Lightning Lanes, which is usually much quicker. By the way: the service used to be called Fast Pass and was free.

You should make your Genie reservation as early as possible on the morning of your visit to the parks, as places fill up quickly! And don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking! Trust us, your feet will thank you at the end of the day.

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando can seem daunting, but with a little planning it can be an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. By following our beginner’s guide, you’ll be well on your way to planning a magical vacation that everyone will enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream trip today!

A day at Seaworld Orlando

At Seaworld Orlando

Seaworld in Orlando, Florida, is a theme park with sea creatures. The park offers up-close animal encounters, shows and attractions. Seaworld is also a major player in animal rescue, research and rehabilitation. In addition to the rides and attractions, Seaworld also offers various educational programs for guests of all ages.

Seaworld rides and attractions

One of the most popular rides at Seaworld is Kraken. Kraken is a floorless roller coaster that reaches speeds of 65 mph. Another popular ride is Journey to Atlantis. Journey to Atlantis takes guests on a journey through the lost city of Atlantis. The ride includes special effects and has a splashdown finale. Other rides at Seaworld include Manta, Mako, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, Infinity Falls and TurtleTrek.

In addition to the rides, Seaworld also offers various shows with dolphins, sea lions, orcas and birds. These shows are energetic and very entertaining. In the Dolphin Nursery, guests can watch dolphins up close. The dolphin nursery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is included in park admission.

Seaworld Animal Rescue

Seaworld is committed to animal rescue, rehabilitation, research and education. To date, Seaworld has rescued over 35,000 animals in distress. In addition, over 2700 animals have been returned to the wild. Each year, Seaworld rescues hundreds of sick or injured animals. These animals receive individualized care until they are ready to return to their natural habitat or be transferred to another facility.

Seaworld Orlando is a great place to spend the day if you’re looking for thrills, entertainment or education. Seaworld has something for everyone and will satisfy even the pickiest traveler.

Insider tip: Make sure you download the Seaworld app before your visit so you can plan your day accordingly!

Attractions you shouldn’t miss in Orlando besides the theme parks

Orlando Eye
The Orlando Eye on International Drive is also worth a visit

Orlando is an entertainment metropolis in Central Florida that is best known for its numerous theme parks. But this city has much more to offer than Mickey Mouse and roller coasters. If you’re planning a trip to Orlando and are looking for a change of pace, here are five must-see attractions that will make your vacation an unforgettable experience.

Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida
The Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida

Not far from Orlando is the Kennedy Space Center, where budding astronauts can get an up-close look at NASA’s rockets and spacecraft. Take a tour of the facility, see an IMAX movie or watch a real launch from the visitor complex. This is a must-see for anyone with even the slightest interest in space exploration.

Gatorland

In Gatorland

If you’re looking for a more animal-themed attraction, look no further than Gatorland. This 110-acre park is home to thousands of alligators and crocodiles, as well as other reptiles, birds and animals. Not only can you watch these amazing creatures, but you can also take part in one of the popular alligator wrestling shows.

The old town of Kissimmee

“Classic Car Alert” – Every Saturday in Kissimmee

To get a taste of old Florida, you should head to Old Town Kissimmee. This shopping and entertainment district is home to numerous stores and restaurants, as well as amusement rides and weekly car shows (classic cars drive through the streets every Saturday). There is also live music here every evening – the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is one of the most underrated attractions in Orlando. This small museum is dedicated to the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany, a celebrated American artist and designer best known for his beautiful glasswork. The museum houses the largest Tiffany collection in the world, making it a must-see for art lovers.

Blue Spring State Park

Manatees im Blue Spring State Park
Manatees at Blue Spring State Park

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, you should head to Blue Spring State Park. This state park is located north of Orlando and is known for its crystal-clear spring water, which has a temperature of 72 degrees all year round. Not only can you swim and canoe here, but in the winter months you can also observe manatees in their natural habitat.

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, Orlando has something for everyone. So don’t spend your whole trip queuing for rides – get out and explore everything this great city has to offer!

The weather is usually good

The sun doesn’t always shine in Orlando either – but most of the time

Orlando has mild weather all year round, making it a great destination no matter what time of year you visit. Whether you want to escape the cold winter weather or enjoy the great outdoors in the summer months, Orlando is the perfect place to do so.

The beaches: Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach

Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach

Orlando may be inland, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spend a day at the beach! Just a short drive away are some of Florida’s best beaches, including Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach. Whether you want to relax in the sun or catch some waves, you can do it all in Orlando.

The shopping: The best places to shop in Orlando

Mermaid Gift Shop Orlando
The Mermaid Gift Shop in Orlando -We made a video about it

You can store till you drop in Orlando! There are countless shopping opportunities in this city, from high-end boutiques to outlet malls. Shopping in Orlando can be a lot of fun, but it can also be overwhelming.

There are so many places to choose from! To help you make the most of your shopping trip, we’ve put together a list of the best places to shop in Orlando. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, local specialties or just a good deal, these places have everything you need.

Orlando International Premium Outlets

The first stop on our list is the Orlando International Premium Outlets. This huge outlet center has over 150 stores with something for everyone. You’ll find all your favorite brands here, such as Nike, Ralph Lauren and Coach. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafés if you need a break from shopping.

Florida Mall

For bargain hunters, our last stop is just the thing. The Florida Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Orlando and has everything you could wish for. From department stores to specialty stores, there’s something for everyone. And if you get hungry, there are over 20 restaurants to choose from.

Shopping in Orlando can be a lot of fun, but it can also be overwhelming. You’re sure to find what you’re looking for in these three stores, whether it’s souvenirs, local specialties or just a good deal. Have fun shopping!

The food

There are countless culinary specialties in Orlando, so you’re sure to find something to satisfy your hunger during your stay. From Floridian fish dishes to Cuban sandwiches and everything in between, you’ll have plenty of delicious options to choose from. Enjoy your meal!

Conclusion: Orlando is diverse and exciting

My Happy Place: Orlando with the best theme parks in the world

In short: we love Orlando. That’s why we spend a few days in Orlando on every Florida trip. And our favorite parks are Universal Studios Orlando.

These are just a few of the many reasons why Orlando, Florida, should be at the top of your travel list. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

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