When it comes to theme parks, there is no other place in the world like Orlando. The city is home to some of the most popular theme parks in the world, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. Orlando is often referred to as the ‘theme park capital of the world’.
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, you’ll definitely want to visit all the major theme parks. But which ones should you visit? And what can you expect at each park? In this blog post, we’ll give you an overview of all the major theme parks in Orlando so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Walt Disney World
No trip to Orlando would be complete without a visit to Walt Disney World. The massive resort includes four different theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios – as well as two water parks and dozens of hotels. You could easily spend a week at Walt Disney World and still not see everything there is to see.
If you’re traveling with young children, Magic Kingdom is a must. The park is home to classic Disney rides like It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean, as well as popular characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck.
Epcot is perfect for older kids and adults; the park offers thrilling rides like Test Track and Soarin, as well as educational attractions like The Land and Seas with Nemo & Friends.
Animal Kingdom is another great option for families; highlights include Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro Safaris and Festival of the Lion King.
Finally, Hollywood Studios is ideal for movie fans: here you can ride rides based on popular movies, such as The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Toy Story Midway Mania! and see live shows based on movies, such as Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!
More about Walt Disney World >>>
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Universal Studios Orlando
Universal Studios Orlando is another must-see for any theme park fan. Like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando is actually two parks in one – Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
Universal Studios Florida has movie-themed rides and attractions such as Revenge of the Mummy, The Ride and Terminator 2, 3D Battle Across Time, while Islands of Adventure has thrilling rides such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
If you’re traveling with Harry Potter fans, be sure to stop by Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida; here you’ll find iconic Harry Potter stores like Ollivander’s Wand Shop and Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes.
You can even ride the Hogwarts Express from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure!
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando rounds off our list of theme parks worth seeing in Orlando. This park is perfect for animal lovers; highlights include killer whale shows, dolphin interactions, penguin encounters and sea lion presentations.
SeaWorld Orlando also has some great roller coasters, including Mako (a hyper coaster), Manta (a flying coaster), Kraken (a floorless coaster) and Journey to Atlantis (a water coaster).
And don’t forget Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin – an immersive attraction that takes guests on a journey through the South Pole.
Anyone who loves theme parks knows that Orlando is the place to be. But this Florida city has more to offer than just rides and attractions. Here are five fun facts about Orlando that you might not know.
Explore International Drive in Orlando – A world of adventure and fun!
Welcome to International Drive in Orlando, the vibrant center of entertainment and theme parks in Florida. Here you will find a variety of attractions that will make your stay unforgettable.
From thrilling rides to exotic shopping and fascinating museums, International Drive has something for everyone. In this section, I present a short selection of the top 12 attractions you shouldn’t miss on International Drive. Or you can simply watch my movie about it.
But that’s not all! In my blog post “Orlando in Florida – Top 12 attractions on International Drive (with movie travelogue)“, much more information and a movie travelogue await you.
Shopping paradise Orlando International Premium Outlets
Immerse yourself in a shopping paradise with first-class brands and unbeatable prices. Here you can dress from head to toe and find real bargains.
Dezerland – the largest indoor park in Florida
An attraction not to be missed: experience a fascinating collection of exotic cars, movie props and much more. Immerse yourself in the world of the stars and be enchanted by the impressive exhibits.
Shuttle Gift Shop – quirky gift store on the iDrive
Here you’ll find unique and fun gifts that you won’t find anywhere else. Be surprised by the variety and creativity of the products.
Sugar Planet – A must for anyone with a sweet tooth
This insider tip takes you into a world of sweets and treats. Let yourself be seduced by the delicious treats and experience a true taste paradise.
Icon Park – The heart of the International Drive
Enjoy breathtaking views from The Wheel and discover other exciting attractions such as SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds. There’s entertainment for the whole family here.
The Icon Park in Orlando is a great destination in Orlando. With its many attractions, there is something for everyone to do and learn. At SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, visitors can discover more than 5,000 aquatic animals from over 100 different species and participate in interactive activities such as dive shows, feedings, educational talks and touch tanks.
The Museum of Illusions is also an exciting experience as guests stimulate the senses and encourage creativity with over 80 visual and tactile illusions.
And don’t forget the view from The Wheel – it’s simply stunning! Icon Park in Orlando has something for everyone – from Madame Tussauds world-famous wax figures to interactive exhibits in the aquarium and unique illusions in the Museum of Illusions – making it a must-see for anyone looking for an entertaining visit during their stay.
Orlando Starflyer – The ultimate thrill at lofty heights
Do you love adrenaline kicks? Then you have to check out the Orlando Starflyer at Icon Park. With breathtaking views and a good dose of thrills, it’s the perfect mix of beauty and adventure. Trust me, you don’t want to miss it!
Venture onto the world’s highest chain carousel swing seat and experience the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. Enjoy the breathtaking view of Orlando from lofty heights.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium in Icon Park
In the underwater tunnel at SeaLife Orlando
Immerse yourself in the fascinating underwater world and meet impressive sea creatures. Experience up close how sharks, rays and other fascinating creatures move in their natural habitats.
Madame Tussauds in Orlando
Meet your favorite celebrities and historical figures in this famous wax figure gallery. Here you can have your photo taken with your idols and capture an unforgettable moment.
Free parking at Icon Park: Benefit from free parking and save yourself the hassle of looking for a parking space. Enjoy your day on International Drive without having to worry about parking fees.
Orlando HeliTours: Explore the Orlando skyline from a bird’s eye view
And enjoy the breathtaking view on a helicopter tour. This experience will give you unforgettable memories and a new perspective on the city.
Skydiving without an airplane: iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Orlando
Fulfill your dream of flying and experience the thrill of skydiving – without having to board an airplane. In a vertical wind tunnel, you can enjoy the feeling of free fall in a safe environment.
Wonderworks – Locals just call it Upside Down House
Enter a crazy house where gravity is turned upside down. Experience interactive adventures, tricky puzzles and discover the fascinating world of science and learning.
SeaWorld Orlando
Immerse yourself in the magical world of the oceans and experience unforgettable encounters with dolphins, whales and other marine creatures. Experience breathtaking shows and learn more about marine conservation.
These are just some of the highlights that the International Drive has to offer. You can find much more information, insider tips and an exciting movie travelogue about my personal experiences on the International Drive in my blog post.
My top 7 list of other attractions and theme parks in and around Orlando
1. Legoland Florida Resort – This LEGO theme park is geared towards families with young children and offers more than 50 rides, attractions and building experiences. More about Legoland >>
2. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex – Learn more about the American space program at this complex, which includes a tour of the former launch site of the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Find out more >>
3. Gatorland – Get up close and personal with alligators and crocodiles at this theme park, which also features zip lines, nature trails and a bird sanctuary.
4. Wet ‘n Wild Orlando – This water park is home to more than 25 water slides and splash areas as well as a wave pool and lazy river.
5. Discovery Cove – Swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish and explore the rainforest at this all-inclusive attraction.
6. Holy Land Experience – Travel back in time to biblical Jerusalem in this religious theme park with replicas of ancient temples and buildings.
7. Arabian Nights Dinner Show – Watch horses perform amazing stunts as you enjoy a traditional Middle Eastern dinner show at this family-friendly venue.
Fun Facts about Orlando
Orlando was founded in 1875 by a man named Aaron Jernigan. Jernigan bought 4,000 acres of land on Lake Eola for 200 dollars in gold. He then built a log cabin on the property, which he used as a home and general store.
Orlando officially became a town in 1885 with a population of just over 100.
The town of Orlando was named after a man named Orlando Reeves, who died fighting Seminole Indians in 1835. Reeves was a soldier stationed at Fort Gatlin, which was located near present-day Orlando.
Orlando experienced significant growth in the early 1900s due to the construction of two major highways: the Central Florida GreeneWay (now State Road 408) and State Road 50 (now Colonial Drive).
There are more than 150 lakes in Orlando. The largest of these lakes is Lake Apopka, which covers more than 30,000 hectares.
Conclusion: The city in Florida for theme park fans
Orlando is a truly unique city that has a lot to offer visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for thrills in the theme parks or a relaxing day at one of the many lakes, you’ll find it all in Orlando. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the theme park capital of the world today!
