Orlando, one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, has mega-amusement parks like Walt Disney World that draw throngs of people to the central Florida city 365 days a year. These attractions have created an incentive for other visionaries and investors to create a seemingly endless list of things to do for children and adults alike.
With so many great attractions, Orlando is sure to remain at the top of the list as a favorite travel destination. Luckily, larger hospitality chains like the Westgate resorts in Orlando will always be prepared and ready for guests. Check-in anytime to visit these must-see attractions in Orlando.
Florida is primarily a coastal country. So you can plan your vacation by enjoying and cruising on your rented boat and then stop at one of the destinations we have prepared for you. To look for different types of boast and availability, please visit TheBoatLink.com.
1. Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is the granddaddy of all amusement parks and is actually a bevy of four attractions all in one. With its iconic Cinderella’s Castle at the center, the Magic Kingdom is the most recognizable and the place where a host of Disney characters will greet you.
Don’t miss Epcot’s Spaceship Earth geosphere at the entrance of the park featuring World Showcase and Future World where international Disney characters like Mary Poppins, Belle, and Mulan help visitors experience other world cultures. It’s incredible.
Get a glimpse into the world of movie magic at the Hollywood Studios Park where you’ll learn about things like special effects and get to tour a real studio space. And Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro safari is a natural habitat for African animals far away from their home continent.
It’s so cool to experience all of these exhibits in just a day. There’s a reason that Disney World remains the #1 must-see attraction in Orlando. It really is THAT magical.
So if you’re in Orlando, don’t miss out.
Pro tip: Book your tickets ahead of time. Disney World is intensely popular among tourists, so plan ahead and schedule accordingly.
If you can’t visit but own a Disney Vacation Club membership, consider selling it for others to enjoy the magic. Learn more about selling your DVC instantly to share the joy of Disney World with eager travelers. It’s a smart way to pass on the enchantment while benefiting from your investment.
2. SeaWorld
Huge aquariums, thrilling rides, whale and dolphin shows, and interactive touch pools are a few of the reasons to add SeaWorld to your Orlando itinerary. Sign up for one of the tours for even more close-up encounters with these intelligent animals or an exciting behind-the-scenes look at how this magnificent attraction operates. Special tours include a visit to the adorable dolphin nursery and the impressive manatee rehabilitation center.
In addition to sea life displays, SeaWorld has amusement rides that appeal to all ages. The Mako hypercoaster, the Kraken Virtual Reality Coaster, and the Manta Coaster are the most daring, and refreshing water rides are perfect for a hot Florida day.
There’s a reasons SeaWorld always makes it into the top 10 lists when talking about things to do in Orlando. It’s fun and exciting for young and old alike.
3. Universal Studios
Orlando’s Universal Studios is both a theme park and an operating movie studio for visitors to see how filmmaking works. It was designed in collaboration with Steven Spielberg. Themed island parks pay tribute to film franchises such as The Lost Continent, Jurrasic Park, Suess Island, Toon Lagoon, and Marvel Superhero Island.
Don’t miss the current new addition, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter featuring Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade, and Diagon Alley extending into the park where you can escape from Gringotts Bank along with Harry.
To enjoy as many rides as possible, visitors can purchase an Express Pass and skip to the front of the line. Or take a break from the rides and visit City Walk, a part of the attraction that offers shopping, dining, movies, and other entertainment.
For move enthusiasts it really is must-see. Seeing how and where some of the most popular movies were shot is mind-blowing.
4. Typhoon Lagoon
Don’t miss Orlando’s biggest and best waterpark! Typhoon Lagoon at the Walt Disney Resort has splashy attractions for the whole family including multiple waterslides for all ages and a sandy beach to relax on while the kids play. There is even a swimming and splash area called Ketchakiddee Creek created especially for the young ones.
Sign up for surfing lessons at the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, North America’s largest wave pool, take a quiet ride down the lazy river, or opt for the whitewater rides on Miss Adventure Falls.
5. Leu Gardens
Take a break from the noise and crowds of theme parks at Leu Gardens located a short drive from Downtown Orlando. Stroll along winding walking trails through more than 50 stunning acres of gardens, ponds, and fountains. You’ll pass under elms and moss-draped camphor trees on the way to rose gardens and displays of palms and bromeliads.
On Tuesdays through Sundays, visitors can tour the Leu House Museum, a restored 19th century home. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the home was occupied in the past by four families from 1858-to 1936.
6. Gatorland
See thousands of crocodiles, alligators, and other exotic reptiles like the rare white leucistic alligator with a visit to Gatorland. Some of them perform amusing shows daily such as “Gator Wrestlin’ ” and the “Alligator Jumparoo” show.
The kids will love riding the small train that runs around the grounds, and there’s an observation tower that looks out over the breeding marsh and the surrounding area.
Two zip lines were recently added to the attraction. The Gator Gauntlet and the Screamin’ Gator run above the crocodile and alligator pens. There’s also a self-guided swamp walk for less adventurous types and a Gator Gully Splash Park for cooling off on hot days.
7. Exotic Animal Experience
You don’t have to travel the world to see some of its most interesting animals. Residents at Orlando’s Exotic Animal Experience include owl monkeys, two-toed sloths, deer, kinkajous, and several species of lemurs and kangaroos.
Visits are reservation only, and you can choose from a private visit, group experience, or special packages such as “Simply Sloths” that allow you to have close-up encounters with the animals.
You’ll find all these attractions and more in Orlando along with great hotels, restaurants, golfing, and exciting nightlife.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our little venture into the must-see attractions in Orlando, Florida.
It really has it all: Awesome and exhilarating theme parks, beautiful landmark and sightseeing spots, adventure trails, delicious food, and beautiful weather.
