If I could recommend only one place for the ultimate family-friendly vacation, Orlando would be it. This city is located in Central Florida and is filled with activities and attractions to keep your family entertained. Not only that, but it’s also the home of Disney World, the coolest group of theme parks on the planet. While there are hundreds of things to do and see in Orlando, I’m going to give you seven of the best family-friendly Orlando area attractions that I highly recommend visiting.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando
Hogwarts Express, Diagon Alley – you’ll feel like you stepped onto the movie set. To get to Hogsmeade, hop on Hogwarts Express at King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios Florida and view amazing scenery of London on your way to Hogsmeade Station located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Disney Animal Kingdom
This is by far my most favorite park out of all of the Disney theme parks. When we visited Disney World, we were staying at a hotel in Daytona Beach, which was an hour away from Orlando. If you want to spend more time seeing Orlando, then it’s best to book a hotel close to attractions such as IHG hotels in the center of Orlando for easy access to sites and entertainment.
Believe it or not, we visited Disney Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Magic Kingdom all in one day with a same-day Park Hopper ticket. The Kilimanjaro Safari was so exciting! We had never been to Africa, let alone done a safari, but I’m sure this was the next best thing. We spotted animals like lions, zebras, elephants, giraffes, hippopotami, ostriches, and the list goes on.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
If you didn’t know, I’m a space geek. The Kennedy Space Center complex is located at Cape Canaveral and has a museum, interactive exhibits, a hall of fame, and so much more. To get the most of your experience, I suggest buying your tickets online and arriving at opening. There’s so much to see and do that you could easily spend an entire day there.
Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
Located in Ponce Inlet, this lighthouse stands at 175 feet tall, overlooking the inlet. You can experience a wonderful view of the waterways once you’ve climbed all 203 steps to the top, which we did on a hot day in July. It’s also just an hour away if you’re traveling from Orlando.
LEGOLAND Florida
There are 50 rides, attractions, daily shows, and a fun water park, all with a Lego theme, of course! This park was built with young children in mind. Note that parking isn’t cheap. Expect to pay $17 per car and $18 for campers or RVs per day.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Also known as the Odditorium, you’ll see the weirdest objects at this museum of oddities. Shrunken heads, vampire killing kits, fertility statues, and other weird but entertaining things will keep you on your toes.
Medieval Times Dinner Show
We attended this show in Myrtle Beach, and it was a very entertaining experience. A delicious four-course dinner is provided for everyone as they cheer on their chosen knights in sword fights, jousting, and other tournaments. Book a front row seat. It’s worth the money!
In my opinion, Orlando is the best place in America for a family trip. It will bring out the kid in everyone. I know it does for me!
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