Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. And despite the best efforts of competitors, it remains a destination without equal. To drive home its advantage, it also boasts an abundance of golf courses and shopping malls – all bathed in Florida sunshine. There’s a theme park for every day of the week. Walt Disney World Resort, the Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, Discovery Cove and many more. If you fancy a break from the thrills, then the spectacular sights of International Drive, the super-sized shopping malls and golf courses galore will be sure to keep you busy. On top of all that, you’ll find within driving distance sun-kissed beaches to the east and west, and the wetlands of the Everglades to the south.
Top six things to do in Orlando
1. Feel the magic at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida
Imagine six fantastic Disney Parks, two exciting night-time entertainment districts and a state-of-the-art sports complex. Whether you’re looking for beloved Disney Characters, thrilling attractions, splashing-good Water Parks or even a relaxing beach or two, Walt Disney World Resort has it all. Meet Mickey. Ride a magic carpet through Agrabah. Get right in the middle of your favourite toons with in-your-face 3D. Plunge down a waterfall. Golf from dawn ‘til dusk. Shop ‘til you drop. Be dazzled by world-class entertainment. Savour delectable dining at award-winning restaurants. The possibilities are virtually endless.
2. Have a thrilling day out at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort is home to three amazing theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme park and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. From Illumination’s mischievous Minions to the magic and the excitement of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and so much more, Universal Orlando Resort is a holiday of endless awesome for the whole family.
3. Be an astronaut for the day at Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space programme. Offering more than 60 interactive touch-screen experiences and high-tech simulators, you’ll be able to experience first-hand what it is like being an astronaut and take your own space adventure into the universe. You can see different historical spacecrafts such as the real Space Shuttle Atlantis, go through astronaut training or have the possibility of dining with a real-life astronaut during your visit.
4. Go on an Everglades excursion
The subtropical wetlands of the Everglades are one of the top natural wonders of the United States. Spanning central and southern Florida, the protected swamps, marshes and rivers that make up the Florida Everglades offer plenty to do and explore. From walking trails to cycling paths, airboat rides to kayaking tours, there are many different excursions on offer in the Everglades. With such a diverse ecosystem, the Everglades National Park is a wildlife-watcher’s dream, with alligators, manatees, turtles and sea birds all commonly spotted throughout the mangroves.
5. Make a splash at Discovery Cove
The perfect destination for family fun, Discovery Cove is one of the top things to do in Orlando. Explore the lush landscape of rocky lagoons, waterfalls and pristine sandy beaches. Snorkel through The Grand Reef, a vast underwater world home to thousands of colourful fish and graceful rays. Wade and float in the sparkling clear springs of Freshwater Oasis, and gaze at the otters at play. Let colourful birds land on your shoulders and eat out of your hands in the Explorer’s Aviary. Or, just find inner peace at Serenity Bay and Wind-Away River.
6. Spend the day at SeaWorld® Orlando
You soar, you fly, you gasp, you giggle. Meet amazing marine animals and jump into their world on sensational rides, attractions and shows at SeaWorld® Orlando. SeaWorld is the perfect place to spend a day with your family and friends. Board a raft journeying towards the world’s tallest river rapid drop on Infinity Falls. Feel as though you’re thrashing through the sea as you chase your prey on Orlando’s fastest, tallest, and only hypercoaster, Mako. Step into the all-immersive 360°domed theatre TurtleTrek and marvel at a turtles-eye-view of the ocean, or waddle through the icy South Pole and feel what it’s like to be a penguin in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin.
