A Guide to Orlando Theme Parks

Written by Viator, August 2010

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:

Golfing, Good for Kids, Good Place to Relax, Nature & Wildlife, Tip - Family Travel, Theme Park

If the name Orlando, Florida is synonymous with 'theme parks' for you, and if the knowledge that it's a reputation well-earned daunts you, don't worry; we've got you covered. Though Orlando's theme parks can be numerous, we've highlighted the best, to make a simple task out of a mighty magic mountain.

Disney World

Walt Disney World is without a doubt one of the most famous theme parks in the world. Bristling with life-sized icons from your favorite animated childhood movies, everything in this larger-than-life park is technicolor bright and very huggable. A favorite of both children and adults, there is plenty to do and see for the whole family. Catch your favorite president in almost-real-life at the Hall of Presidents, scare yourself silly in the Haunted Mansion, relax and go golfing, or ride a spaceship in an Astro Orbiter; Disney has it all. These attractions are spread across six theme parks, however, and so booking tickets between them can be expensive and confusing. Opt for the easy and flexible route with a Magic Your Way Ticket.

Universal Studios

Universal’s claim to fame is the magic of the silver screen. Cinema and all its magic is on adventurous display at these family-oriented blockbuster theme-parks. Both Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure offer rides to their patrons, but Islands is more roller-coaster based, while Universal Studios gives its guests a more behind-the-scenes cinematographic experience. Why not ride along with your favorite Simpsons characters or blast down a river on the Jurassic Park River Ride, or explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Sea World

Love the ocean? Then Orlando's SeaWorld is for you. Home of the famous Shamu, this water park is different from others you've been to in that you only get wet if the animals splash you! See the world of marine mammals and how their cared for, kept and entertained. This unforgettable journey into the deep will bring you face to face with killer whales, baby balugas, polar bears, sharks, and turtles. And with SeaWorld's new Aquatica, a river floats you through an undersea world of colorful fish, and another races you into rolling rapids. Fun!

Wet 'n Wild

Consistently voted America's number one water park, Wet 'n Wild is not like most other water parks you've been to. Combining multi-sensory experiences with more multi-person tube rides than any other water park in Orlando, this water park is the park for everyone. If pulsating lights, Disco-themed rides, and rides like the Black Hole and the Brain Wash aren't your thing, there's always the Lazy River float through Florida's past, a Surf Lagoon, and a kid's area to treat all comers.