Orlando in Florida is the Mecca of activities for young and old. It is a famous family vacation destination because of the attractions it offers. From Disney to the Orlando Zoo, there is something for everyone in the family. Here are the major attractions in Orlando you will enjoy visiting with your family.
1. Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Disney tops the list of family activities in Orlando with the magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom. Stage shows, parades and fireworks are the mainstay of the main park. Check out Cirque du Soleil in Downtown Disney. EPCOT is the premier science and technology center and imparts a look into the future. All 22 resorts in the parks have their own attractions.
2. Universal Studios
Universal Studios is another popular attraction in Orland for young and old. Little kids love Suess Landing in the Island of Adventure, which also features superheroes. Visit the World of Harry Potter that provides a magical experience. Many different thrill rides get the blood pumping, sometimes in 3-D.
3. Seaworld and Discovery Cove
Seaworld and sister park, Discovery Cove, are worth seeing. The coral reef is a safe environment in which to snorkel or instead, float down a river, swim the dolphins or sun on the beach. View shows by Shamu and friends, enjoy rides and visit the Aquatica, one of the most exciting waterparks in existence.
4. Gatorland
Gatorland began in the 1930s in Owen Godwin’s backyard. Local Seminole Indians wrestled the gators for entertainment purposes and trinkets were sold from the kitchen. Today 4 different shows feature alligators that jump over 5 feet high, the traditional gator wrestling (where even the audience can participate if they dare), exhibits of rare species and exhibitions of other types of animals. Ride the railroad, walk through a swamp or splash in the water.
5. Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum
Explore a host of weird oddities at Ripley’s. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush to get through, which is good for people with young children. It is open every day, all year round from 9:30 am to midnight for early risers and night owls.
6. The Titanic Experience
Explore the Titanic in an experience that is interactive within a 20,000 square foot venue. Guides are dressed in period costume and tell the story along with showing artifacts from the real thing.
7. Arabian Nights Dinner Theater
Eat dinner in nearby Kissimmee where horses and riders are in beautiful costume and present a great performance while eating luscious food. There are 14 breeds represented in the 65 horses that perform in the show.
8. The Orlando Zoo
The zoo not only exhibits many different animals but there is a water playground, educational classes, and much more. It has been in existence since 1923 as the Sanford Zoo moving to its current location in 116 acres in 1975. The monkey exhibit is always a favorite of children young and old and the Elephant Encounter on weekends allows participants to touch the animals.