Your Guide to Theme Parks and Hotels in Orlando, Florida.

Whether you’re making new memories with the family, or celebrating something special with friends, Orlando is packed with thrilling theme parks, tasty food, and everything you need for the perfect getaway experience. Not sure where to start? Here’s a curated guide to help you plan your perfect theme park vacation.

Universal Studios Orlando Resort

Universal Studios Orlando Resort is one of the top theme park destinations in America. This destination boasts multiple parks themed after beloved franchises, ready for every type of vacationer. Expect all the thrills and much more at Islands of Adventure, or watch your favorite films come to life at Universal Studios Orlando. You can also find the perfect way to relax if you want to get away from it all at any of the hotels near Universal Studios Orlando. Get ready. Your adventure awaits.

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1. Epic Universe

Theme Parks & Attractions

Epic Universe in Orlando is the next generation of theme parks. This is Universal’s latest expansion, which opened in May 2025. Witness the magic of The Wizarding World — Ministry of Magic, the excitement of How to Train Your Dragon, and other beloved franchises come to life in fully immersive lands. Guests can expect groundbreaking attractions like Mario Kart, Donkey Kong Mine Coaster, and rides featuring the Universal Monsters and Fantastic Beasts. Epic Universe pushes the boundaries of technology, storytelling, and guest interaction.

Did we mention the bites and sips are just as exciting as the rides? Guests can enjoy themed creations throughout the parks at spots like the Toadstool Cafe, Mead Hall, Café L’air De La Sirène, and much more.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel will make your Epic Universe experience well… epic. With exceptional dining, a rooftop bar, convenient amenities, and a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe.

2. Universal Studios

Theme Parks & Attractions

Get dropped straight into the middle of your favorite blockbuster with immersive sets and action-packed rides. Explore eight lands throughout one sprawling park, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter– Diagon Alley, Illumination’s Minion Land, DreamWorks Land, Springfield, USA: Home of The Simpsons, and more. Universal Studios Orlando leans toward older kids, teens, and adults with more thrilling rides and pop culture references. Food options are equally cinematic — you can dine at the Krusty Burger, sip at the Leaky Cauldron, or grab a Lard Lad Donut in Springfield. Universal Studios Orlando caters best to thrill-seeking groups and fans of action, comedy, and classic film moments.

You’ll also love seasonal events kicking off throughout the park. Get your fright on with Universal Studio’s Halloween Horror Nights, or dig into New Orleans culture and cuisine with Mardi Gras. This and much more is waiting for you.

3. Islands of Adventure

Theme Parks & Attractions

Turn up the adrenaline with Islands of Adventure. This park is known for its record-breaking thrill rides and highly immersive lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, Jurassic Park, and Marvel Super Hero Island. Get your blood pumping with thrilling rides like the VelociCoaster—one of Florida’s most intense coasters, featuring high speeds and massive airtime. Or make a splash with water rides like Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and the Jurassic Park River Adventure. Top off the action with something tasty at Mythos Restaurant—a Mediterranean-inspired spot consistently ranked among the best in-park dining experiences in the country.

Looking for a place to call home while you’re exploring the parks? Click here for more hotels near Universal Studios Orlando Resort.

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort brings the magic to generations of families across the world. Now you can explore the wonders up close. From interactive shows and rides, to thrilling coasters and events, you and your family are bound to be transported into a new world at this Florida theme park. Whether you’re nostalgic over the movies of your youth, or introducing your kids to a whole new era of magic, get ready to unleash your imagination.

1. Magic Kingdom

Theme Parks & Attractions

Magic Kingdom is the heart of Walt Disney World and the most visited theme park in the world—and it’s easy to see why. With its iconic Cinderella Castle and six uniquely themed lands, the park offers a magical blend of nostalgic charm and timeless adventure. Find all the classic attractions here like Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion, and the Jungle Cruise, as well as newer favorites like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Fantasyland and Tron Lightcycle / Run in Tomorrowland. The rides here are mostly gentle and family-friendly, though there are some moderate thrills like Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Complete your family adventure with parades, character meet-and-greets, and evening fireworks. When it comes to dining, options range from quick-service favorites like the beloved Dole Whip at Aloha Isle to immersive table-service spots like Be Our Guest, set inside the Beast’s enchanted castle. Magic Kingdom is a rite of passage for first-time visitors and a dream for Disney fans of all ages.

Keep the magic going with a stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. With The Enchanted Rose Lounge serving a delicious London Fog Cocktail that feels like an adult tea time fairytale, or mesmerizing fireworks over Cinderella Castle, this resort keeps you close to all the fun.

Brightline Offer: Explore with the whole family. Kids save 25% off kid fares for children 3 - 12.

2. EPCOT

Theme Parks & Attractions

EPCOT is often considered one of Walt Disney World’s most sophisticated parks, blending futuristic innovation with a celebration of global cultures. Part of EPCOT is dedicated to technology, science, and space, featuring attractions like the high-speed Test Track and the thrilling spinning coaster, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. The other half, known as World Showcase, includes 11 country pavilions offering authentic food, shopping, architecture, and live entertainment—from France to Morocco to Japan. Guests can explore the world without ever leaving the park. Recent additions to the pavilions include Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen Ever After, and Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. EPCOT is a haven for foodies, especially during its annual festivals like the International Food & Wine Festival and International Flower & Garden Festival, which offer global cuisines and cultural experiences.

Brightline Offer: Explore the theme parks with friends. Groups 3+ save on Adult SMART fares.

3. Hollywood Studios

Theme Parks & Attractions

Disney’s Hollywood Studios brings the magic of the movies to life with thrilling attractions and themed lands. One of the biggest draws is Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a highly immersive world where guests can pilot the Millennium Falcon, build a lightsaber, and even join the Resistance in the groundbreaking Rise of the Resistance ride. There’s also Toy Story Land, perfect for families with kids, featuring the fun coaster Slinky Dog Dash. For thrill-seekers, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster deliver high-octane drops and loops. The park also offers excellent stage shows and cinematic experiences like the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage. Dining is just as magical, from the intergalactic vibes of Oga’s Cantina to the nostalgic charm of 50s Prime Time Café. It’s a top pick for families and groups alike.

4. Animal Kingdom

Theme Parks & Attractions

Animal Kingdom is Disney’s most visually stunning park, blending real-world conservation with Disney storytelling. Part zoo, part theme park, it features lush trails, live animal exhibits, and rides that take you on wild adventures. The park is home to Pandora – The World of Avatar, a beautifully designed land where the ride Flight of Passage simulates soaring on a banshee through a floating, alien jungle—a breathtaking experience and one of Disney World's top attractions. Other highlights include the thrilling Expedition Everest roller coaster and the safari-style Kilimanjaro Safaris, offering close encounters with real animals in expansive, natural habitats. The park’s dining scene focuses on global, fresh flavors, with standouts like Satu’li Canteen in Pandora and Tiffins, a fine dining restaurant with international flair. Animal Kingdom offers a relaxed, naturalistic vibe—perfect for guests seeking a slower, scenic experience with exciting bursts of adrenaline.

Looking for a place to call home while you’re exploring the parks? Click here for more hotels near Walt Disney World Orlando.