Planning an Orlando trip with kids? This guide covers everything from toddler-friendly activities to teen-approved thrills. Also see our family-friendly Orlando parent's guide and best water parks for more family fun.
🎢 Theme Parks for Kids
Walt Disney World
Best for: All ages, especially young kids
Tips:
- Magic Kingdom has the most classic attractions
- Character meet-and-greets everywhere
- Baby care centers at each park
- Rider Switch for thrill rides with little ones
Universal Orlando
Best for: Older kids, Harry Potter fans
Tips:
- Universal's Super Nintendo World (2025)
- Kid-friendly areas in each park
- Express Pass worth it for families
SeaWorld Orlando
Best for: Animal lovers, younger kids
Tips:
- Milder thrill rides than other parks
- Excellent animal encounters
- Less walking than Disney/Universal
🦁 Beyond the Parks
Gatorland
"World's Alligator Capital." Shows, zip lines, gator feeding. About $35 adults.
Age range: All ages
Fun Spot America
Smaller theme parks with go-karts, bumper cars, arcade. Much cheaper than big parks.
Age range: All ages
Orlando Science Center
Hands-on exhibits, planetarium, kidsZone. Great for hot afternoons.
Age range: Toddlers to teens
Cost: ~$15 adults
Crayola Experience
Colorful hands-on activities. Located at Florida Mall.
Age range: 3-12
Cost: ~$25
🏞️ Outdoor Fun
Wekiwa Springs
Natural spring swimming. Life jackets required for kids under 18.
Age range: All ages
Tip: Bring water shoes
Lake Eola Park
Swan boats, playground, walking path. Downtown Orlando.
Age range: All ages
Cost: Free!
Orlando Tree Trek
Zip lines and obstacle courses. For adventurous kids 8+.
Age range: 8+
Mini Golf
- Hawaiian Falls (water park too)
- Pirate's Cove (adventure mini golf)
- Lost Cavern (glow-in-the-dark)
🍽️ Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Cafe Tu Tu Tango
Artistic atmosphere, small plates, kids menu. Orlando
Vibe: Fun, eclectic
Bull & Bear
At Waldorf Astoria. Kids eat free!
Vibe: Upscale but family-friendly
The Melting Pot
Fondue! Kids love dipping.
Vibe: Interactive, fun
Miller's Ale House
Casual, huge portions, kids eat free.
Vibe: Sports bar, family-friendly
CityWorks Eatery
At Disney Springs. Arcade, sports, casual food.
Vibe: Fun for teens
🎮 Indoor Activities (Rainy Days)
Main Event
Bowling, arcade, ropes course. Multiple locations.
Age range: All ages
Andretti Indoor Karting
Indoor karting, arcade, attractions.
Age range: 8+ for racing
The Escape Game
Escape rooms for families. Teams work together to solve puzzles.
Age range: 10+
IMAG
Interactive museum downtown. Hands-on science exhibits.
Age range: All ages
📋 Sample 3-Day Family Itinerary
Day 1: Disney Magic
- Morning: Magic Kingdom
- Afternoon: Pool break
- Evening: Disney Springs
Day 2: Water & Wildlife
- Morning: Gatorland or SeaWorld
- Afternoon: Hotel pool
- Evening: Mini golf or arcade
Day 3: Local Fun
- Morning: Wekiwa Springs or Lake Eola
- Afternoon: Orlando Science Center
- Evening: Dinner at CityWorks
💡 Family Pro Tips
- Rent a VRBO. Suites with kitchens save money on meals.
- Bring snacks. Disney/Universal food is expensive.
- Pool time is key. Afternoon breaks keep kids happy.
- Book dining reservations. Popular restaurants fill fast.
- Character meals. Kids love meeting characters without park lines.
- Stroller rental or bring your own. Disney rents them.
- Download apps. Disney's app for wait times, mobile ordering.
Orlando is the ultimate family destination. With planning, you can create memories that last a lifetime.