Orlando is a vacationer’s paradise, ripe with opportunities around every corner. When you bring your children into the mix, it becomes even greater. Exploring vast theme parks and science centers is sure to brighten their faces with a smile and fill their hearts with unforgettable memories.
With so many things to do in Orlando, you’ll stay busy. You might even find yourself hard-pressed to make it to all 12 destinations on this list. Don't worry — that just means you’ll have to come back for the rest of the Orlando attractions for kids.
Magical Moments at Disney Theme Parks
In the mid-1960s, Walt Disney had a dream. He wanted to bring the magic of his theme parks closer to home for those more likely to see the Atlantic than the Pacific. After all, the world-renowned Disneyland brought smiles and inspired dreams in the families who went. Thus, Walt Disney World Resort was born.
This world-class entertainment and recreation destination features four of the most popular theme parks in existence. It attracts travelers from around the world and creates a spark of magic that lives on forever in those it reaches. Disney Theme Parks aren’t just for those who have children, there are plenty of things to do for adults as well.
With a focus on legendary guest services and one-of-a-kind experiences that make it the premier vacation destination, Walt Disney World helps families create magical memories. As you make your way through the four parks, you’ll find interactive activities, unforgettable rides, and opportunities to meet your favorite characters.
1. Magic Kingdom Park
The castle in Magic Kingdom Park looks majestic under the warm Florida sun by day and when it's outlined and illuminated by dazzling fireworks and lasers at night. This park immerses you into a world of fantasy where your favorite Disney characters come to life.
Hop aboard some of the most iconic Disney rides, such as “It’s a small world” or Dumbo the Flying Elephant in Fantasyland. Over in Adventureland, your family can go back in time to sail the seas on the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.
It’s no sweat if you work up an appetite — and who wouldn’t with so many places to go and things to see? Themed and character dining opportunities abound, so your little one can dine in Beast’s castle or nibble on their favorite foods as Winnie the Pooh stops by for an autograph and a hug.
2. EPCOT
The journey continues at EPCOT, where you’ll find yourself in out-of-this-world, futuristic settings that look more akin to something from a sci-fi movie than real life.
EPCOT stands for the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, and it inspires awe and dreams for what the future may hold. It’s also home to some of the most otherworldly attractions and landmarks you’ll find.
Embark on an intergalactic chase through space and time on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, or hop over to the park’s World Nature neighborhood to experience The Seas with Nemo & Friends. You can even chat with your favorite turtle at Turtle Talk with Crush.
3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Take in the glory of La La Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Evoking a rich sense of nostalgia for what Hollywood was like during its golden era, this park brings children of all ages behind the magic of the big screen.
Immerse your family in the whimsy and wonder of the world of Toy Story Land, where familiar toys, such as building blocks and your favorite characters, suddenly reach gargantuan proportions. Or hop, skip, and jump your way to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, where you’ll tag along for the whirlwind ride of a lifetime.
4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
At Animal Kingdom, your whole family will go bananas for everything they discover. When you join in on a Kilimanjaro Safari, you enter an open-air vehicle winding its way through a sprawling savanna teaming with wildlife. If you listen closely, you might hear the cackling laugh of a hyena or the roar of a lion.
For more hands-on animal encounters, head to the Affection Section, the only petting zoo on the property. Pigs, sheep, goats, and even a corn snake and gopher tortoise excitedly await your acquaintance.
5. Cirque Du Soleil Drawn to Life
When two creative forces to be reckoned with collide, you know you’re in for a good time. In concert with Disney, our performance, Drawn to Life, weaves a masterpiece that lingers in memories for a lifetime.
Follow Julie, a courageous girl who discovers her late father has left behind a gift: an unfinished animation piece. With a pencil and her indomitable imagination, she paves her future, one line at a time.
This fusion of animation and acrobatics showcases the best of both worlds: Disney’s creativity and our penchant for pushing human limits to the extreme. Each mesmerizing act brings more fantasy and whimsy to life.
Audience members of all ages will be on the edge of their seats as they wait for what comes next. When we’re involved, anything could happen.
Learning Experiences
Of course, there’s more to Orlando than theme parks. Learning experiences sure to enrapture the hearts and minds of both you and your children await nearby. Get ready to show them that learning can happen on vacation—and be fun!
6. Orlando Science Center
At Orlando Science Center, a whole new world of discovery awaits across 11,000 square feet at KidsTown. Whether you bring your littles under seven here to enjoy hands-on learning experiences or you venture into The Hive with your older children, opportunities for learning are endless.
Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty at DinoDigs, a fossil adventure. Here, you’ll get to dig into a replica paleontological site while surrounded by giant fossil replicas of some of the fiercest and largest creatures to walk the planet.
In the Kinetic Zone, your children dive into science in motion, where they’ll create their own inventions. Perhaps they’ll dream up the next big roller coaster at the Coaster Challenge, and maybe one day, it will become a real, live ride.
Circus Fun Awaits You!
Why juggle plans when you can watch the pros? Discover amazing circus shows in Orlando Amazement guaranteed!
Disney Springs Exploration
Disney Springs is a magical destination on its own, offering a retail and dining haven at the Walt Disney World Resort. Unlike the theme parks, however, this area is open to the general public with no tickets required. Shop ‘til you drop.
7. The LEGO Store
At The LEGO Store, possibilities are as endless as the collections of bricks you’ll find within. Whether you need one specific brick to replace a piece your child lost or you want to take a look at specialty kits to bring back with you, you’ll find all things LEGO here.
It’s also the perfect backdrop for photos as people build larger-than-life reenactments of classic Disney scenes. Want a pint-sized souvenir? Create your own LEGO Minifigure and take it home.
8. Aerophile – The World Leader in Balloon Flight
Have you ever wondered what it’d be like to float up in the air? At Aerophile Balloon Flight, you’ll perfectly capture that sensation. Here, the world’s largest hand-painted helium balloon carries your whole family high up above the ground.
You’ll have unforgettable views of Disney Springs. You’ll fly up over 400 feet, granting views up to 10 miles away on days when the skies are clear.
One thing’s for sure: when you get on this custom-painted balloon ride, you’ll make unforgettable memories.
9. Disney Springs Kids Club
Every Saturday morning, the festivities at Disney Springs Kids Club delight children of all ages. Live music and street performances invite kids to join in on the action and feel the rhythm of the music in their bones.
Whether you’re up to boogie down at the massive dance party or clap along to the beat of a drum circle, you’re bound to enjoy the show.
Bring Wonder to Your Orlando Vacation
The enchanting adventures and experiences found in Orlando help you weave precious family memories.
After your theme park adventures, come see our shows in Orlando. We expertly blend acrobatics, live action, and animations into one seamless story. You don't want to miss it!