Orlando is one of the most popular destinations for families who want to have fun and create unforgettable memories. With dozens of theme parks, water parks, resorts, and attractions, there is something for everyone in this sunny city. Whether you are looking for thrill rides, magical shows, or animal encounters, you will find it in Orlando. In this blog post, we will give you some tips and recommendations on how to plan your perfect family vacation in Orlando.

First and foremost, you need to decide when to visit. Orlando is a year-round destination, but some seasons are busier and more expensive than others. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting in the off-peak months of January, February, September, or October. You will also enjoy milder weather and shorter lines at the parks. However, if you don't mind the heat and the crowds, you can visit during the peak seasons of spring break, summer, or winter holidays. You will find more events and festivities happening at the parks during these times.

Orlando has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose to stay on-site or off-site. Staying on-site means staying at one of the hotels or resorts owned by the theme park operators, such as Disney, Universal, or SeaWorld. Staying off-site means staying at any other hotel or rental property in the area. There are pros and cons to both options.

Staying on-site gives you some benefits, such as free transportation to and from the parks, early access to some attractions, free parking, and special perks like dining plans or character meet-and-greets. However, staying on-site can also be more expensive and less flexible than staying off-site. You may have to pay more for food and souvenirs at the parks, and you may have less choice of restaurants and activities outside the parks.

Staying off-site gives you more freedom and variety, as you can explore other parts of Orlando and enjoy different cuisines and entertainment options. You can also save money by booking cheaper hotels or renting a house or apartment with your family. However, staying off-site can also be more inconvenient and time-consuming than staying on-site. You may have to deal with traffic and parking fees when going to the parks, and you may miss out on some of the exclusive benefits that on-site guests get.

Orlando has so many things to do and see that it can be overwhelming to decide what to prioritize. To make the most of your time and money, you should do some research and planning before you go. Here are some of the most popular parks and attractions in Orlando.

Walt Disney World: 

The most famous and largest theme park complex in the world, Walt Disney World consists of four main parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each park has its own theme, attractions, shows, and characters. You can also visit two water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Walt Disney World is a must-see for any Disney fan or anyone who loves fairy tales, adventure, and magic.

Universal Orlando: 

The second-largest theme park complex in Orlando, Universal Orlando consists of two main parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. Each park has its own theme, attractions, shows, and characters. You can also visit one water park: Volcano Bay. Universal Orlando is a must-see for any movie fan or anyone who loves thrill rides, action, and fantasy.

The third-largest theme park complex in Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando consists of three main parks: SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, and Discovery Cove.

Each park has its own theme, attractions, shows, and animals.

You can also explore Adventure Island, a thrilling water park boasting incredible rides and attractions, perfect for an exhilarating day of fun and relaxation.

SeaWorld Orlando is an essential destination for animal enthusiasts and those passionate about marine life, offering an immersive experience that combines entertainment, education, and conservation efforts. 

Staying on-site gives you some benefits, such as free transportation to and from the parks, early access to some attractions, free parking, and special perks like dining plans or character meet-and-greets. However, staying on-site can also be more expensive and less flexible than staying off-site. You may have to pay more for food and souvenirs at the parks, and you may have less choice of restaurants and activities outside the parks.

Staying off-site gives you more freedom and variety, as you can explore other parts of Orlando and enjoy different cuisines and entertainment options. You can also save money by booking cheaper hotels or renting a house or apartment with your family. However, staying off-site can also be more inconvenient and time-consuming than staying on-site. You may have to deal with traffic and parking fees when going to the parks, and you may miss out on some of the exclusive benefits that on-site guests get.

Connect with our travel advisor to explore Orlando travel itineraries for your family.