Florida is one of the favorite states in the US for both locals and tourists to visit. The state has something to offer everyone, from kids to teens to adults. It has beautiful beaches if you want to relax, theme parks for some adventure, and rich heritage if you are a historical type.
Florida was always exciting for me as a kid, especially because of Disney World. And there is nothing better than visiting this beautiful place on my birthday. Plus, the vibe is so festive everywhere, as it’s almost Christmas time.
There are many places to visit in Florida, and it’s difficult to see all of them in one trip. Therefore, we zeroed in on exploring Orlando. After researching multiple available deals, where to stay, which attractions to see, etc., here are the top 5 places in Orlando I would recommend visiting.
1. Disney Spring
Upon reaching, we only had half a day on our first day, so we decided to visit Disney Spring. It has multiple shops and restaurants. In the evening, many live bands and shows take place. It has a great vibe. I was keen on two things – a Vintage car ride on water and a balloon ride.
We only did a Vintage car ride on the water, and it was one of the best experiences I had. Somehow, I lost interest in the balloon ride. The car ride was awesome. The car was running smoothly on the water, similar to the regular road.
2. Universal Studios
There are three parks – Universal Adventure Studios, Island of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.
I chose Universal Theme Parks for my birthday, and it was the best day of my life. Luckily, the park wasn’t that crowded.
Each of the parks’ rides offers a complete and unique experience. There are a few thriller rides, but the rest of them are all experience rides. You will not get bored standing in a long queue for hours.
Highlights
- Universal Studios – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Illuminations Minion Land,
- Adventure Island – Harry Potter, Skull Island, The Animal Show
- Harry Potter is the highlight of the park. The rides and the experiences created for people are outstanding.
- You can only see one park in one day. They are huge and have a lot of different activities to do (if you are not a fan of roller coasters/rides)
- Buy multiple park open tickets multiple days pass (like 2-3 days). It gives you the flexibility to change the park anytime you wish (instead of a fixed date/fixed park).
The Macy’s parade at the end of the day is one of the most awaited.
3. Disney World
Going to Disney World is like going to a fairy tale land. Everyone can relate to Disney World in some way. Visiting Disneyland is always a fun experience. It brings back the kid in you.
Disney World in Florida has four theme parks with separate entrances – Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot (future/Tomorrowland), and Hollywood Studios.
You can only see one park in a day (if you ride all the rides and there is not much crowd).
We only visited one park—Epcot. It is not the typical Disney park you would expect and it has many interesting things to experience. It was less crowded. You can meet all the Disney characters here in a very short queue (unlike other parks, where it takes hours just to click pictures with your favorite Disney Character).
Journey of Water by Moana was one of the best experiences here. The playfulness and interaction with nature are so refreshing. I also loved Soarin Around the World, which was like a hand-glider ride around the world. It was a super fun ride (it is not a thrilling or scary ride).
The Guardian of Galaxy-Cosmic Rewind is the highlight of this park. But I found it a little overrated.
Guardian of the Galaxy: Join the virtual queue in the morning, as there are limited slots available. This way, you will have your turn early. Otherwise, it may take 5-6 hours in a virtual queue.
You can also experience the culture and live music of different countries around the globe.
Tips
- If you are not staying in a Disney resort, choose a resort that provides a shuttle service to Disney parks (it is free). This is super helpful; you don’t have to worry about parking.
- Staying in a Disney park has one significant advantage—the park opens an hour before the general public arrives. You can choose to do things that interest you first before the park gets jam-packed with people.
- There are free shuttle services from Epcot to other Disney parks.
- Buying multiple park tickets with open dates is better, as it is more economical and flexible.
4. Kennedy Space Centre
Kennedy Space Center provides the general public with up-close exposure to space exploration, ongoing missions, and hands-on experience. It also has a space simulator that gives the feeling of being in a shuttle. It is a must-visit place.
5. Wild Florida
Wild Florida was a delightful wild adventure. I love to do something new, and an Airboat tour was one thing I wanted to do for a long time. The tour takes you to the swamp river to watch alligators. The experience was enthralling. Loved it!
Gator Park provides a unique experience with alligators and interactions with other animals. You can even hold an alligator in your hand.
The place also offers a drive-thru safari. You can drive at your own pace and spend as much time as you want. You can also feed the giraffes. The safari is free if buying a combo pack of airboats and Gator Park.
- Buy a combo pack of Airboat tour along with Gator Park.
- This place is a hidden jewel and unexplored compared to Gatorland or Everglades, but it offers a way better experience and interactions.
5 Day Itinerary to Orlando, Florida
- Day 1: Universal Orlando Resort (Island of Adventure)
- Day 2: Disney World (any one park)
- Day 3: Universal Orlando Resort (Universal Studios)
- Day 4: Kennedy Space Centre
- Day 5: Wild Florida
If you have more days, you can visit more Disney parks (if that excites you), Volcanic Bay at Universal Orlando Resort (in the summers)