Orlando Florida is the world's top vacation spot for families-- an impressive feat, for a landlocked town in the middle of a state famous for beaches. Orlando is a behemoth of theme park fun; scroll down for Top Things to Do, Disney World overview, Universal Orlando, great resorts, and more.
1. Flights to Orlando
Photo © Teresa Plowright.
Before you can enjoy Orlando, you have to get there! See tips about finding a flight.
2. Top Things to do in Orlando
Photo by Ken Howard © BMP.
From thrill rides to fireworks, Winnie the Pooh to Cat-in-the-Hat, Typhoon Lagoon to Discovery Cove, Finding Nemo to the Blue Man Group...
3. Disney World Vacations - Overview
Photo © Teresa Plowright
Disney World is BIG: in an area the size of Boston, guests can explore four major theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, complete with parades, live shows, and fireworks), two waterparks, Downtown Disney entertainment zone, and more. Meanwhile 14 resorts "in the world" range from budget to luxury, and all offer guests a number of perks. Start here for an overview of Disney World.
4. Universal Orlando
Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando.
Universal Orlando has two theme parks, three resorts, and CityWalk entertainment complex. Theme parks Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida have thrill rides, kiddie-pleasers such as Seuss Landing, and blockbuster attractions based on movies. Beautiful resorts are just a short walk from the action; and guests get Front of the Line Access to popular rides. Halloween is huge; Mardi Gras weekends run in spring; the Holiday Season brings Grinchmas and daily Macy's Parade; and Blue Man Group has a permanent venue at CityWalk.
5. Top Orlando Resort Choices for Families
Photo © Teresa Plowright
Pretty much any Orlando resort will be family friendly; even the deluxe brands have special features with kid-appeal. Some resorts go all out to entertain kids on-property: you might find "beach pools" (real sand), waterfalls, waterslides, lazy river, artificial lake, or waterparks on-site, plus kids programs.
6. Orlando at Christmas
Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando.
Orlando gets dazzling in December: the theme parks twinkle and stage special shows, and other venues turn on the bright lights too. Disney World has special celebrations including Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights, Holidays Around The World in Epcot and Candlelight Processional. Universal Orlando has Grinchmas and Macy's Holiday Parade every day; and that's not all.
