15 Best Amusement Parks in Orlando

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With its many world-class aquariums, SeaWorld Orlando is one of the best places in the city to get up close and personal with the incredible marine life that lives in the waters around Florida. One of the biggest attractions in the park is an orca known as Shamu, but visitors will also have the chance to see dolphins, sharks, turtles, flamingos, penguins, and even sloths. However, the park is much more than a collection of aquariums; it also offers roller coasters, rides for children, plenty of dining options, and valuable information about wildlife conservation.

7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, Phone: 407-545-5550

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Opened in 1999, Universal's Islands of Adventure is a unique amusement park with eight distinct themed islands for visitors to explore. There are countless rides, activities, and shows to be found throughout the islands; some of the most popular include the Jurassic Park river adventure, the three-story sea-themed play area, and a replica of the Hogwarts Express that brings visitors to the neighboring Universal Studios. Costumed characters can often be found wandering through the park, making for some excellent photo opportunities. Both single-day and annual passes are available, and visitors can also purchase tickets that provide access to both this park and Universal Studios.

6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, Phone: 407-224-4233

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If you're a big movie fan, visiting Universal Studios Florida is a dream come true. The grounds are jam-packed with all sorts of exciting rides and attractions, including a Simpsons-themed virtual reality roller coaster, a thrilling Harry Potter attraction that takes visitors deep underground, and an elaborate Revenge of the Mummy ride. The level of detail in the park is incredible, and visitors will feel like they've been transported into their favorite fictional worlds. The park is also an operational movie and TV production facility, meaning that lucky visitors might even have the chance to see a real film crew at work. Browse day trips from Orlando

6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, Phone: 407-363-8000

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Sitting on a 335-acre property in Tampa, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers thrilling amusement park rides, live entertainment for all ages, and one of the largest zoos in the United States. More than 12,000 different animals live in the park; many of these animals are native to Africa, and visitors can take exciting safari-style tours if they want to see the animals up close. The park also boasts some of the best roller coasters in Florida, including one with spinning cars and another with an incredible 70 mph drop. Special events are held throughout the year, and both daily and annual passes are available.

10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, Phone: 813-884-4386

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Owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort that provides the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking animal encounters in a lush tropical setting with plenty of waterfalls, pools, and winding rivers. A 30-minute dolphin swim is included in the price of admission, and possible add-ons include feeding rays, swimming with sharks, and going on an exciting walking tour of the Grand Reef. Visitors will be provided with unlimited food and beverage all throughout their stay, and guests can choose to purchase tickets that also include access to SeaWorld Orlando and the Aquatica water park.

6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821, Phone: 407-513-4600

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Formerly known as MGM Studios, Disney's Hollywood Studios is a family-friendly amusement park with plenty of rides and attractions inspired by classic Disney movies from the 1930s and 1940s as well as more modern favorites like Toy Story and Star Wars. There's something here for everyone: The Tower of Terror is a must-do for adrenaline junkies, while younger children will love the interactive rides found in the Animation Courtyard. Another highlight of the park is a show known as Fantasmic, which takes place on the water and features fireworks, live actors, and a laser show.

351 S Studio Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, Phone: 407-939-1289

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Part of the Walt Disney World Resort, Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is a zoological theme park dedicated to nature and conservation. The park encompasses an incredible 580 acres, and although it offers several exciting rides, the real attractions in the park are the shows and the animal exhibits. A visit to the park isn't complete without taking the signature safari ride, which exposes visitors to a wide range of animals living in excellent replicas of their natural environments, but other highlights include exploring Pandora – World of Avatar and watching the various Disney-themed musical shows with acrobats and other performers.

2901 Osceola Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32830, Phone: 407-939-5277

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Created to celebrate human achievement in technology and culture, Epcot is another part of the Walt Disney World Resort. The park is divided into two distinct sections, one of which explores innovative uses of technology, and another with pavilions representing eleven different world nations. Many of the most popular attractions are located in Future World, including a large white sphere called Spaceship Earth and Mission: Space, a ride designed to simulate the experience of going into space. There are also plenty of Disney characters wandering around the park, and authentic dining options can be found in each of the themed country pavilions.

200 Epcot Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, Phone: 407-824-4321

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Represented by the iconic Cinderella Castle seen in the opening credits of every Disney movie, Magic Kingdom Park attracts more visitors than any other theme park in the world. The Magic Kingdom is divided into six “lands,” namely the futuristic Tomorrowland, the Western Frontierland, the mysterious Adventureland, the medieval carnival-inspired Fantasyland, Liberty Square, and Main Street, U.S.A. The park is home to well-known rides like Splash Mountain and Space Mountain, but it also offers the opportunity to interact with all of the most beloved Disney characters. Other highlights include the shops selling Disney-themed merchandise and the incredible fireworks display held every evening. Browse beaches near Orlando

1180 Seven Seas Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, Phone: 407-939-5277

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Set on the shores of Lake Eloise, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a colorful Lego-themed resort with a hotel and more than 50 different rides, shows, and attractions. The park is divided into eleven zones, including a water park with a wave pool and plenty of water slides, a Lego city complete with drivable boats and cars, and a miniature Lego replica of the United States. The park is best suited for families with children between the ages of 2 and 12, and special Fastrack passes are available for visitors who want to make the most of their time here.

1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, Phone: 888-690-5346

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Thrillseekers will love a visit to Magical Midway on Orlando’s famous International Drive. Home to heart-pumping rides like a drop tower and star flyer, visitors will also find the world’s largest slingshot ride. It definitely isn’t for the faint of heart, as riders are catapulted almost 400 feet into the air at speeds nearing 100 miles an hour. The slingshot welcomes anyone brave enough to ride with only a height requirement of 50 inches. Not looking to get your adrenaline pumping? Magical Midway also offers rides such as go-karts, bumper cars, a carousel, and endless classic and modern games in its 5500-square-foot arcade.

7001 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819, Phone: 407-370-5353

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Make priceless memories with the family at Fun Spot America. The park is home to countless rides and games catering to every age, easily filling up the day with loads of fun and laughter. Adrenaline junkies will love the park’s numerous rollercoasters—including Orlando’s only wooden rollercoaster—as well as a 90-foot swing ride and the flipping, twisting, revolving Headrush ride. Other attractions include bumper cars, multi-level go-karts, a funhouse, and many other games. Young kids won’t miss out on the fun with rides like a fun slide, tea cups, kiddy rollercoaster, and bumper boats. Cabanas are also available for rent so families can easily rest with some privacy and shade.

5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, Florida 32819, Phone: 407-363- 3867

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Splash around the tropical-themed Volcano Bay. Part of the famous Universal Orlando parks, this water park promises the same quality experience that visitors come to expect from the Universal line of theme parks. Find over a dozen water attractions including giant, speeding waterslides that are sure to get anyone’s heart pumping. Those looking for some easygoing rides will enjoy the winding river and the wave pool with a giant volcano in the center of the park. Several kinds of cabanas are available for families of every size from couples to groups of 16. Here, visitors can unwind while enjoying complimentary fruits and snacks as well as an exclusive menu of food and beverages.

6000 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 82319, Phone: 407-363-8000

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There’s so much to see and do at ICON Orlando 360. The massive park is filled with endless attractions as well as daytime and nighttime entertainment. Some of the park’s most popular attractions include the giant observation wheel, Madame Tussauds, Sea Life aquarium, Museum of Illusions, and an exciting 7D dark ride. After checking out all the fun attractions, easily find delicious treats and refreshments from over a dozen dining locations within the park. Savor North Carolina slow-smoked barbeque at Brother Jimmy’s, grab some of Gordon Ramsay’s fish and chips to munch on while on the go, or taste classic family recipes at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Whether bonding with family or out on date night, ICON Orlando 360 has something for every kind of visitor.

8375 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819, Phone: 407-601-7907

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Rain or shine, nothing stops the fun at this indoor amusement park. Dezerland Park Orlando, holding the title of Florida’s largest indoor attraction, boasts over 800,000 square feet of fun and excitement. There are several attractions to choose from—with more on the way—including go-karts, bowling, laser tag, a trampoline park, bumper cars, glow-in-the-dark miniature golf, arcade games, motion simulators, and even axe throwing. After exerting all that energy, sit down and enjoy some great eats at one of the many cafes and restaurants. There’s something for every craving from burritos to pizza to even French pastries and desserts.

5250 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819, Phone: 321-754-1700