With so many amazing theme parks in Orlando, it’s no wonder Central Florida is known as the theme park capital of the world.
There are 8 major theme parks in Orlando and beyond, plus a handful of smaller parks too. We’ll take a brief overview of each one here, then you can click the relevant links below for an in-depth guide to each of the theme parks in Orlando and Central Florida.
Walt Disney World
Mr. Walt Disney put Central Florida firmly on the map when the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971. Epcot followed in 1982, then Hollywood Studios opened in 1989. Animal Kingdom opened in 1998 and celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Walt Disney World really is “The Most Magical Place on Earth“. (The Happiest Place on Earth is Disneyland in California).
See Full Details: Walt Disney World Overview
Magic Kingdom
This is where the magic happens. Magic Kingdom might be known more for younger guests, but don’t let that stop you putting it at the top if your Must Do list. The fireworks, parades and magical attractions are what Disney is all about, all sprinkled with Pixie Dust for an extra dose of magic.
You’re never too old for miracles and magic!
See Full Details: Guide to Magic Kingdom
Epcot
What does EPCOT stand for? Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow is the name Walt Disney gave to this land of imagination. There’s a lot more here for older kids and adults. It’s also the Festival Capital of Walt Disney World.
Epcot is split into four neighborhoods.
- World Celebration
- World Discovery
- World Nature
- World Showcase
World Showcase is home to 11 countries showcasing tradition, culture and cuisine in a mile long walk around ShowCase Lagoon.
There’s plenty for kids to do at Epcot in both sections of the park.
See Full Details: Guide to Epcot
Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios began life back in 1989 when it was called MGM Studios. It’s all about television and movies and is a must do for Star Wars fans. The park has undergone a huge expansion program over recent years. Toy Story Land opened in June 2018, followed by Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in 2019.
See Full Details: Guide to Hollywood Studios
Animal Kingdom
Always considered by many as a half day park, Animal Kingdom has transformed into a must do and a full day at least. Pandora: World of Avatar is the newest addition, complete with floating mountains and alien plant life. Animal Kingdom leans heavily towards animal conservation and education.
See Full Details: Guide to Animal Kingdom
Theme Parks in Orlando:
Universal Orlando Resort
Muscling in on Disney’s patch, Universal opened the doors to Universal Studios Florida, a brand new movie centric world, in 1990. Islands of Adventure followed in 1999. Harry Potter flew in on his Nimbus in 2010 and both Universal parks have soared ever since. Epic Universe is the latest addition to Universal, set to open in May 2025.
See Full Details: Guide to Universal Orlando
Universal Studios Florida
With Diagon Alley keeping Potterheads happy, Springfield USA amusing Simpsons fans and an array of 3D and 4D rides, Universal Studios has something for everyone. Add thematic dining and jaw dropping thrill rides into the mix, and you have yourself a theme park packed with fun.
See Full Details: Guide to Universal Studios
Islands of Adventure
Harry Potter transformed Universal Florida when he arrived to Hogsmeade village in 2010 and he hasn’t stopped thrilling fans since. Add Marvel superhero’s, an exhilarating Hulk Coaster and several themed lands aimed at adults and kids, you’ll never be able to pick between Islands of Adventure and Universal. Best get tickets for both, especially if you want to ride the Hogwarts Express.
See Full Details: Guide to Islands of Adventure
Epic Universe
Universal Epic Universe is opening on May 22, 2025. It will feature over 50 experiences that range from groundbreaking attractions to an array of entertainment options.
The new park will be home to five themed worlds:
- Celestial Park
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
- SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
- Dark Universe
See Full Details: Epic Universe
Theme Parks in Orlando:
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld has come under fire in recent years and is steadily transitioning into an entertainment park with animal interaction. Still plenty of animal encounters and shows, but we now have much more in the way of annual food festivals, live concerts with headline artists and a whole bunch of coaster thrill rides.
See Full Details: Guide to SeaWorld Orlando
Discovery Cove
A visit to Discovery Cove will tick off that swim with dolphins that’s been lingering on your bucket list. This full day, fully inclusive resort offers animal interactions, scuba diving in freshwater lagoons, lazing about on WindAway River and splashing away in Serenity Bay. It might have a high price ticket, but with entry to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens included, plus all your food and drink for the day, it’s well worth considering.
See Full Details: Guide to Discovery Cove
Busch Gardens
Heading over to Tampa for Busch Gardens will give you a day of thrills intermingled with an array of animal encounters. Scream away on Sheikra, Cheetah Hunt or Manta. Plunge back down to earth on Falcons Fury or check out Serengeti Plains. You can walk, take the Skyride for an aerial view or hitch a ride on the train.
See Full Details: Guide to Busch Gardens
Theme Parks Near Orlando:
LEGOLand Florida
Located over in Winter Haven, around an hour from the theme parks in Orlando, Legoland burst onto the scene with bricktacular flair. Legoland opened up a whole new world for smaller guests aged 2 to 12. The 150 acre park is now the largest interactive Legoland park in the world.
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