Things to Do in Orlando With Kids

Need some ideas on things to do in Orlando with kids? The state of Florida has a reputation as a theme park haven. It is home to some of the most famous theme parks in the world – Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and a myriad of amusement parks. It’s a no-brainer that many parents pick the city as the destination of choice when they want to have some fun with the kids. Below we look at some of the things you can do with the whole family while you’re in Orlando.

1.      Orlando Science Center

Your kids can get a better understanding of the world with the variety of tech and natural science exhibits available at the Orlando Science Center. Make sure to check out the NatureWorks exhibit where you will come face-to-face with all sorts of reptiles. At the Kinetic One exhibit, kids get to explore the science behind gravity, electricity, and other cool concepts.  Your kids also get to see science come alive with the amazing shows and demonstrations at the Science Live! Programs.

2.      Walt Disney World

Want to explore the home of the most famous mouse in the world and his pals? You can bet your kids are bursting at the seams with anticipation. Walt Disney is the ultimate destination for kids. It’s an adventure packed theme park inspired by Disney. Both kids and adults can have tons of fun at the park enjoying the thrilling rides, amazing dining experiences, and friendly characters. The amount of fun you can have at Walt Disney World is only limited by your budget and energy levels. Make a point of going on a weekday or during the off-season to avoid the crowds. This way, you’ll have shorter wait times for rides.

3.      Disney Springs

This is Disney World’s shopping and dining area that consists of Pleasure Island, West Side, and Marketplace. If you want to skip the long lines and rides then you can take an adventure to the restaurants, live shows, and shops in Disney Springs. You don’t have to pay the hefty admission fees to get the “Disney” experience. Walk trough Disney Springs for free as you stock up on souvenirs along the way. The only thing you’ll have to pay for is the entertainment of your choice.

4.      Leu Gardens

This is a 50-acre botanical garden where the whole family can spend some time unwinding and smelling the roses. There’s a lot to see at the Leu Gardens including butterfly garden, rose garden, vegetable garden, and scenic trails overlooking Lake Rowena. The Lue House Museum is also part of the offering. You can go on a guided tour of this beautiful restored 19^th century home. Lovers of fine art will enjoy the plethora of sculptures dotted among the horticultural exhibits.

5.      LEGOLAND Orlando

This is a 150-acre theme park meant for families with kids between the ages of 2 and 12. As the name suggests, the park is inspired by the iconic toy brand – LEGO. There are over 50 rides, attractions, and shows all geared towards family fun. The theme park is located in Winter Haven and you’ll find water play areas, raft rides, wave pools, coasters, and other amazing stuff to keep you busy throughout the day. You can stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel if one day is not enough to explore everything the park has to offer.

6.      Orlando Museum of Art

Since 1924, the Orlando Museum of Arts has been a hub of culture and arts offering intriguing rotating and permanent exhibits via a plethora of mediums. If you want to have a quiet afternoon with the whole family, then you cannot go wrong with a visit to the Museum of Art. You can bet your teens will be ogling at the amazing collections of African, contemporary, American, and Ancient American art.

7.      Universal Orlando Resort

This is the perfect destination for movie lovers. Here, you’ll get your fill of movie-themed rides and experiences that feature your favorite characters. You have 3 park options to choose from. You can opt for Harry Potter adventures featuring The Hogwarts Express and Flight of the Hippogriff, Men in Black Alien Attach where you use lasers to blast aliens or take a ride with The Simpsons.

8.      The Great Magic Hall

Want to experience the wonder and mystery of magic? Then you have to visit the Great Magic Hall in Orlando.  You’ll get to see many types of magic performances and an amazing array of magic tricks. One of a kind magic tricks take place in several rooms. Make sure to call well in advance to confirm showtimes because they change from time to time. This is a great family outing especially when the weather is acting up.

9.      ICON Orlando

This is the 6^th tallest observation wheel in the world standing at 400 feet. Atop the ICON Orlando, you get spectacular views if the downtown Orlando skyline and the theme parks. Formerly known as the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, the observation wheel was renamed to ICON Orlando. The whole family can get an opportunity to savor the Orlando sunset from an air-conditioned capsule. The capsule is shared with other passengers.  There’s free parking and the experience is largely stress-free for families.

10. Gatorland

This is one of the best rated animal sanctuaries in the US. Here, you get a glimpse of the most notorious reptiles in Florida and other critters. You’ll see alligators, snakes, crocodiles, birds, and other creatures. You can tour the sanctuary on foot or via zip lines hanging 350 feet over the Alligator Breeding Marsh.