Orlando, the place where dreams become real is a destination that will always surprise you. Known as the theme park capital of the world, Orlando, Florida could also be considered the most fun place on earth because everything about the destination centres around having fun. Home to major theme parks, excellent attractions, thrilling rides and so much more, Orlando is a destination that is always reinventing the wheel. If you are planning your holiday to Orlando, keep on reading as we are listing out for you the 10 top things to do in Orlando.
1. Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort is one of the most iconic places to visit in Orlando. Made up of two theme parks and one water theme park, if you visit Universal Orlando, you must be prepared to be transported right into the heart of your favourite movies and tv shows. Universal Studios is home to iconic lands such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and Springfield, the home of The Simpsons, as well as EPIC rides such as Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Revenge of the Mummy and the brand-new Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. While in Universal Islands of Adventure, a school of witchcraft and wizardry, superheroes, dinosaurs and plenty of twists and ups and downs await you. The second of the Universal Parks, Island’s of Adventure is made up of multiple lands, all of which offer a huge selection of fantastic rollercoasters and rides, as well as some of the best theming you will find in Orlando. Must dos in Universal Islands of Adventure include the brand new Velocicoaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, the iconic Hulk Rollercoaster and so much more. If you fancy mixing some chills with your thrills, Universal’s Volcano Bay is a water theme park unlike any other. Built around an impressive volcano, this water theme park has plenty of exciting slides and rides including an aqua coaster! But the park also has plenty of space to chill in the gorgeous Florida sunshine, whether on the manmade beach or amongst its lush greenery.
2. Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is known as the most magical place on earth and this collection of Disney parks (six in total!), are sure to blow you away on your Orlando holiday. Magic Kingdom is the heart of Disney and here you will find the iconic Cinderella Castle as well as enchanting lands, immersive firework shows, charming character parades and so much more. This park also has plenty of chances for thrills with the brand-new TRON rollercoaster and popular favourites such as Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain. Disney’s other parks are made up of three additional theme parks, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT as well as their two water parks Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Must dos in Disney World include Avatar Flight of Passage in Animal Kingdom, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT and Star Wars Rise of the Resistance in Hollywood Studios. Also, don’t forget that no trip to Disney is complete without a fireworks show and most nights of the year, you can catch incredible firework shows in Magic Kingdom, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
3. SeaWorld Parks
SeaWorld Parks is made up of SeaWorld itself, its waterpark Aquatica, Discovery Cove and additionally Busch Gardens, located in Tampa Bay. SeaWorld is renowned for its epic rollercoasters and is a must visit if you fancy some truly terrifying thrills on your Orlando holiday. While there be sure to ride the brand-new Pipeline: Surf Coaster, the world’s first surf rollercoaster, as well as popular coasters such as Mako and Kraken. For a unique park experience, head to Discovery Cove, one of the smallest parks in Orlando where you will feel a world away from the usual thrill action that Orlando is so famous for. Here you can swim with dolphins, go snorkelling or simply bask in the sunshine in a more intimate park setting.
4. Excellent Shopping
Orlando’s shopping is almost as famous as its theme parks and throughout the destination you are truly spoilt for choice. If its bargains that you seek, be sure to head to the two outlet malls that top and tail both ends of International Drive. Orlando Premium Outlets International are located near to Universal Orlando Resort, while Orlando Premium Outlets at Vineland are located at the opposite end of International Drive nearer to SeaWorld. These outlets are home to a huge array of big name brands and the value for money in them is just fantastic. The Florida Mall and the Mall at Millenia are two more shopping destinations in Orlando with plenty of fantastic shopping to enjoy as well as excellent dining options. And, if you are looking for a more upmarket experience, head to Disney Springs where you can find a huge selection of retailers as well.
5. ICON Park Orlando
Located on International Drive, ICON Park Orlando is a fantastic addition to Orlando’s already fun portfolio. For gorgeous views over the entire Orlando area, why not take a spin on the Wheel at ICON Park, or if you fancy some time in from the sun, or perhaps it is a rainy day activity you seek, check out SeaLife Aquarium and Madame Tussauds. Two fantastic attractions that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a great selection of restaurants located at ICON Park.
6. Great Dining and Nightlife
Orlando has really emerged in recent years as being a foodie paradise with his huge range of dining and nightlife, influenced by many nationalities. Universal’s City Walk is one of the liveliest areas to visit for some fantastic food and nightlife with its incredible choice. While Disney Springs is just as popular, offering everything from gourmet burgers to great seafood. Along International Drive, you will also find plenty of choice to eat out and enjoy a few drinks in the evening to reminisce on your days of fun.
7. Airboat Ride – Gatorland and Wild Florida
Before there were theme parks in Orlando, there were swamps and plenty of scaly locals! While on your holiday, why not take a trip on the wild side and explore one of Orlando’s swamplands, which are known to be the headwaters of the Everglades. Gatorland and Wild Florida both offer exciting airboat rides that will give you a chance to discover some of Florida’s gorgeous, natural surroundings and perhaps you might spot an alligator or two!
8. International Drive Gems
A lot of people choose to base themselves on International Drive for their Orlando holiday because of its fantastic accessibility to all of the major theme parks, but also because I Drive has a large number of attractions itself. Including the aforementioned ICON Park, International Drive in Orlando has plenty of things to do. From the Crayola Experience which will give your little ones the chance to play with the world of colour and creativity, to the educational and interactive Wonderworks, and the thrilling experience of indoor skydiving at iFly Indoor Skydiving, there is a lot to discover along International Drive.
9. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center is located approximately one hour from Orlando but it remains one of the top attractions to enjoy on an Orlando holiday. This fascinating attraction will take you on a journey into outer space and the world of NASA. Get up close and personal with Space Shuttle Atlantis, take a visit to Rocket Garden, experience a Shuttle Launch Experience and so much more at this fascinating attraction.
10. Orlando Magic Basketball Game
Nothing is more iconic than getting to experience a live NBA basketball game and Orlando’s basketball team Orlando Magic know how to put on a show! If you are visiting during their season, be sure to try catch a game and experience the exciting atmosphere of the NBA during your holiday.
Orlando is a destination that evolves and gets more exciting every single year and we have only just scratched the surface with this post. In fact, they say if you were to complete every attraction that Orlando has to offer, it would take you 121 days – that is how much fun awaits you in this exciting destination. If you would like more information on Orlando, you can contact our five star USA holiday experts seven days a week on 01-6995329 or alternatively, learn more about Orlando on our website.
