Best Theme Parks in Orlando

Orlando is the perfect city to delve into the magical worlds of its theme parks, which offer unique experiences full of adventure for the whole family to enjoy.

Lorena Morales

Lorena Morales

12 min read

Best Theme Parks in Orlando

Vista de Wonderworks |©Susan

On your trip to the United States, you can't miss the theme park capital of the world: Orlando. From the legendary Walt Disney World to the thrilling Universal Orlando Resort, there is a wide variety of things to do in Orlando, with fun for all ages.

Without a doubt, Orlando's theme parks are true entertainment havens in incredible settings seen in few other places in the world. With parks based on iconic movies, encounters with beloved characters, water shows, nature experiences and thrilling roller coasters, the fun knows no bounds at Orlando's theme parks.

1. Discover the magic of film and adventure at Universal Orlando.

Universal Studios|©Haimanti Weld
Universal Studios|©Haimanti Weld

At Universal Orlando Resort, at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure, you'll find a variety of thrill rides and themed worlds based on famous franchises such as Harry Potter, The Simpsons, Jurassic Park and more. In addition, you can enjoy Volcano's Bay, a water park with a large volcano in the centre.

At Universal Studios Florida, you can immerse yourself in the world of cinema with attractions such as the magical world of Harry Potter, where you can explore the vast underground caverns in Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, or meet popular characters such as Transformers, Minions and SpongeBob SquarePants.

You can continue your adventure at Universal's Islands of Adventure, where you can enjoy thrill rides like Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and immerse yourself in the adrenaline rush of Jurassic Park River Adventure. You can also experience the supernatural world of superheroes and an unforgettable experience at Skull Island, where you'll have a daredevil encounter with King Kong.

Please note that park admission does not usually include meals, and food and drink are not allowed inside the park. However, inside the parks you will find a wide variety of dining options to recharge your batteries. At Universal Orlando Resort, you're sure to enjoy a world full of fun and adventure.

More information about Universal Orlando Resort

  • Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA.
  • Hours: daily at 9am and closes between 7pm and 9pm approximately.
  • Admission: from €197.

Visit Universal Studios Orlando

2. Embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of Disney in Orlando

Walt Disney World, Florida|©Lee
Walt Disney World, Florida|©Lee

Disney World in Orlando is 4 incredible theme parks, 2 water parks, 2 shopping malls, 1 golf course, and many shops, restaurants and hotels. In short, a magical city within a magical city, ideal for the whole family to enjoy. From the iconic Cinderella Castle to huge roller coasters like Space Mountain, the park offers a wide variety of attractions and live shows that combine classic experiences with the latest technological innovations.

With 13,000 hectares of entertainment, Disney is the world's largest theme park and one of the most fun things to do in Orlando. Its theme parks are Magic Kingdom (most similar to Paris), Epcot, Disney Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom; and the water parks are Blizzard Beach Water Park and Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. When visiting, don't forget to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the park is large and you will have to walk quite a bit.

To make the most of your visit, it is advisable to plan it in advance. You will need between 3 and 5 days in Orlando to visit the park at your leisure, and even then it will be difficult to see everything. You can use Disney's official app to check the schedules of attractions and shows, and organise your itinerary based on the attractions you are most interested in.

Also, as Orlando's most popular theme park, be prepared for crowds. The best months to visit are January and February in Orlando, when it is winter and school is in session. As far as food is concerned, at Disney you will also find themed restaurants about its most famous productions, where you will be able to meet and greet your favourite characters, as well as fast food stands.

For more information

  • Address: Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-0250, USA.
  • Hours: between 8am and 10pm, depending on which theme park you visit.
  • Entry fee: from €93 per person per day per park.

3. Experience the Magic of Colour at the Crayola Experience in Orlando

Crayola Experience|©Discover Lehigh Valley, PA
Crayola Experience|©Discover Lehigh Valley, PA

If you're looking for an unforgettable family activity during your visit to Orlando, you can't miss out on exploring the Crayola Experience. This exciting and educational theme park offers a captivating experience and is one of the best things to do with kids in Orlando. Lasting approximately 3-4 hours, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy more than 27 interactive attractions and activities.

You'll have the opportunity to create custom crayons and dive into a crayon pool, among other things. Younger children can paint on digital canvases, discover the science behind crayons and enjoy exciting live shows. In addition, the gift shop offers a wide selection of exclusive Crayola products to take home a special souvenir.

With its vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, the Crayola Experience is a must-do experience in Orlando. Not only is it a fun activity, but it's also a great opportunity for kids to learn about art and creative expression. Be sure to include the Crayola Experience in your itinerary and get ready for a fun-filled day of artistic exploration in a colourful world.

Find out more about the Crayola Experience

  • Location: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809, USA.
  • Hours: daily from 10 am to 8 pm.
  • Admission: Approximately €29.

Join the Crayola Experience in Orlando

4. Experience the adrenaline rush at Fun Spot America Orlando

Fun Spot America|©multimueller
Fun Spot America|©multimueller

Fun Spot America Theme Park in Orlando is a sensational destination for the whole family, with roller coasters such as the Freedom Flyer and White Lightning offering unforgettable twists and turns. In addition, you can enjoy rides such as the SkyCoaster and the 3-storey American-themed Funhouse with its amazing lights.

Fun Spot America Orlando is a theme park full of fun and attractions for all ages. It is a perfect place for you to enjoy rides and activities in a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere.

If you are planning to visit Fun Spot America in Orlando, an excellent option is to get the Orlando Tourist Cards. This pass gives you access to this park and many other attractions in Orlando with important discounts. Remember to book early as the attractions are very popular and tickets sell out quickly.

Find out more

  • Location: 5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, Florida 32819, USA.
  • Hours: The park is open daily from 10am to 12pm or 2pm to midnight.
  • Ticket price: from €66.

Buy your Orlando Explorer Pass

5. Explore the aquatic wonders of Aquatica Theme Park

Aquatica|©Júlia Falcão
Aquatica|©Júlia Falcão

Aquatica is one of Orlando's most fascinating theme parks. With its ocean-inspired atmosphere and a wide variety of thrilling attractions, it is a truly fun-filled aquatic oasis that is often included in the best Orlando tours.

Attractions include water slides, white water rapids and refreshing wave pools. Plus, you can interact with amazing sea creatures such as dolphins and stingrays.

To get the most out of your visit to Aquatica, I recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the attractions in comfort. Don't forget to bring your swimming costume, sunscreen and towels. I also recommend that you take a moment to choose the attractions that are of most interest to you and check show times so you don't miss out.

Aquatica offers an exciting and refreshing experience, perfect for a fun-filled day in the Florida sun. It's best to take at least half a day to enjoy all the main attractions. And, if you plan to visit Orlando in three days, don't forget to explore this park in depth, one of the best water parks in the city.

Read more about the park

  • Location: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL 32821, USA.
  • Hours: Monday to Friday from 10.30am to 5pm. Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 7pm.
  • Admission: from 54 €.

Get your tickets for Aquatica

6. Marvel at the interactive world of WonderWorks

Wonderworks|©Carlos Rios
Wonderworks|©Carlos Rios

With over 100 interactive exhibits, WonderWorks is a dynamic world of fun and learning that captivates children and adults alike. From its 4D moving cinema in the basement, to the sensation of being in the middle of a hurricane, each attraction challenges your senses and invites you to explore the fascinating world of science and technology.

But that's not all. At WonderWorks, you can also enjoy amazing live shows and jaw-dropping science presentations. Plus, if you buy your tickets in advance, you can get a discount at the cafeteria, where you can enjoy a delicious pizza while you recharge your batteries to continue enjoying the wonders of the park.

WonderWorks in Orlando is much more than just a theme park. It is ideal to visit in the rainy months like October in Orlando, as the park is closed. Whether you are a science enthusiast or just want to spend an exciting day out with the family, this park has something to interest everyone in addition to the best shows in Orlando....

Read more

  • Location: 9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA.
  • Hours: Open 365 days a year from 9am to midnight.
  • Admission: from approximately €35.

Enjoy the must-see shows at WonderWorks

7. Explore Space at Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA|©Leo Labrin
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA|©Leo Labrin

Although the Kennedy Space Center is not a theme park in the traditional sense, it has several attractions and exhibits that will give you an insight into the history and future of space exploration. Highlights include the Visitor Center, with interactive displays and simulators, and the Apollo/Saturn V Centre, where the Saturn V rocket that flew to the moon is on display.

It's really quite interesting, as you get the chance to explore NASA's world-class facilities. Not least of all, the visit includes a simulated shuttle launch experience, where you can feel the thrill of a space liftoff.

Many of the tickets include transportation, as it is located about 80 km from the city. The Kennedy Space Center tour from Orlando takes about 10 hours, so you'll need to book the whole day.

This experience is packed with interesting interactive resources that will give you a deeper understanding of NASA and space, making it an ideal choice for those who want to learn more about the universe and mankind's space adventures.

Read more

  • Location: 9339 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827, USA.
  • Hours: daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
  • Admission: from approximately €61.

Visit the Kennedy Space Center from Orlando

8. Experience the adventure of Escape Room Orlando

Escape room|©Friday Late
Escape room|©Friday Late

If you're looking for an adrenaline-fuelled theme park, you can't miss out on some of the city's Escape Rooms. This is one of the best activities to do in Orlando, and as well as testing your strategic intelligence, it's perfect to enjoy with the whole family or with friends, as you can participate with a team of up to 12 people, and even pets.

Each room offers an adventure with a different theme and different difficulties, such as Prison Break, where you have to escape from an evil captivity; The Depths, where you have to solve the mysteries of an underwater laboratory; or Mission: Mars, where you have to repair your ship and leave the planet. And if you prefer to start with something simpler, you can start with Pass Your Class, where you must complete school assignments that will surprise you.

Each Escape Room Orlando experience lasts approximately 1 hour and a half, and is a challenge that you can do with your group or share it with other groups of people, depending on how many people have booked at the same time. Without a doubt it is an opportunity to live unique adventures, in fully recreated rooms to immerse yourself in the scene, and test your intelligence.

More info

  • Location: 8145 International Drive. Suite 511. Orlando, FL 32819
  • Hours: 12pm to 11:30pm, depending on the game. Some games may take place after midnight.
  • Ticket prices: per game, about €41 per adult (groups between 7 and 12). Children under 4 years old do not pay admission. Games are recommended for children over 13 years old.
  • Recommendations: if you want a private experience with your group, you must make a reservation including all available places.

Experience Escape Room in Orlando

9. Immerse yourself in water and technology at Island H2O

people on a water slide|© Vince Fleming
people on a water slide|© Vince Fleming

Island H2O in Orlando, unlike conventional water parks that focus primarily on water play areas, is distinguished by its interactive and modern theme. It features a variety of slides and pools, but also incorporates digital elements such as interactive screens, music, lights and a mobile app that allows visitors to personalise their experience.

If you're looking for adrenaline-filled activities, Reply Racers, Follow me Falls or Hashtag Heights are the attractions for you. And if you're into uploading photos and videos to social media, Chat Creek will be your favourite attraction, as it allows you to post your adventures in Island H2O in real time, using a wristband that you can synchronise. The park also has restaurants and bars with plenty of dining options to delight you.

There is no shortage of atmosphere at Island H2O, so you can enjoy the water attractions in environments inspired by street art or music. It's an ideal park to visit on a hot summer day like July in Orlando, and enjoy a unique water park that has incorporated technology for a more interactive experience.

Read more about the park

  • Location: 3230 Inspiration Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34747, United States.
  • Hours: Open daily from 10.30am to 5pm.
  • Ticket prices: from €58.

Visit Island H2O in Orlando

10. Connect with nature at Tree Trek Adventure Park

Giant Tree|©Shawn Wainwright
Giant Tree|©Shawn Wainwright

Tree Treek Adventure Park offers a vibrant experience in an incredible natural setting. With aerial trails, suspension bridges and thrilling challenges through the trees, you can test your courage and balance. There are options for all skill levels, allowing you to enjoy the fun whether you're a beginner or an expert.

In addition to tree challenges, the park offers activities such as zip-lining and wall climbing. All activities are for ages 7 and over, and the entrance fee includes a short safety and orientation course, so you can enjoy the activities without worrying about anything. The circuit takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete.

To attend Tree Treek Adventure Park, they recommend avoiding loose clothing, jewellery and open-toed shoes, so remember to wear appropriate sportswear to move around comfortably. Without a doubt, this aerial park located about 40 km from the city is one of the best tours to do from Orlando.

For more information, please visit

  • Location: 7625 Sinclair Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34747, USA.
  • Hours: daily from 8am and groups depart every 30 minutes. Last departure time and opening days vary according to season.
  • Admission fee: from approximately €57.

Book your ticket for the Tree Trek Park in Orlando

11. Enter the world of alligators and crocodiles in Orlando

Gatorland|©Richard Harris
Gatorland|©Richard Harris

Gatorland is a theme park where you can learn a lot about alligators and crocodiles, as it is a place where you can admire these reptiles in a special habitat built for them and witness how they live and feed. In addition to reptiles, you can also see birds, capybaras and big cats.

The visit to Gatorland usually lasts about 3 hours. There you will be able to observe the alligators and crocodiles up close, and see educational exhibits that will give you valuable information about these animals. Another option, for the more daring, is to fly over the park on a zipline about 7 stories above the large reptiles.

But if you are really interested in learning more about reptiles, you can take the one-day training programme offered by the park, and learn what you need to know to have a close encounter with dangerous animals or the work that is done with them. Without a doubt, Gatorland is among the best safaris in Orlando, as it is a unique theme park where you can learn a lot about wildlife.

Read more about Gatorland

  • Location: 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837, USA.
  • Hours: 10am to 5pm.
  • Admission fee: from approximately €35.

Buy your tickets for Gatorland