19 Best Things To Do in Orlando with Kids and Toddlers in 2023

Orlando is the ultimate destination for a family vacation, offering endless options for your children to have fun. This Sunshine State city is packed with super fun attractions all year round. From theme parks to museums, there’s no limit to the fun you have over there.

I’ve gathered a list of the 19 best things to do in Orlando with kids and toddlers in 2023. So, if you’re feeling confused and wondering what to do in Orlando with kids, feel free to take inspiration.

Key Takeaways

• Hollywood Studios don’t have many rides suitable for little kids, while Islands of Adventure does.
• Taking your kids to see marine and exotic animals at a few locations is fun as well as educational.
• You’ll need hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, mini fans, and water almost everywhere.
• Make use of the attractions’ mobile apps. They’re extremely useful.
• Search the internet for special promotions and combo tickets.

Best Things To Do in Orlando Map

Top Attractions for Kids and Toddlers

Orlando is known for its world-famous theme parks. However, most people don’t know this city has many more mind-blowing attractions, especially for kids and toddlers.

Here are some great ideas for your family vacation.

Theme Parks

Going to a theme park is one of the most fun things to do in Orlando, Florida with kids. Orlando has so many it’s impossible to even fit them all in one day (unless you have a magic wand). In all cases, you can always leave some out as an excuse to return.

Here are a few theme parks you don’t want to miss.

1. Walt Disney World – Magic Kingdom

Some fear their little toddlers won’t have much fun in Disney World. However, I assure you, there are super exciting activities in that magical place for all ages.

Magic Kingdom contains the most kid-friendly activities in Disney World. So, if you’re on a tight schedule, you should put it at the top of the list.

• Work Hours: Thu. & Mon. from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. – the other days from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: When the summer vacation is almost over, and the prices are less than before (for kids who go to school).
• Price: One adult ticket is $109–$189 per day. A kids ticket (ages 3–9) starts at $104, and toddlers under three enter for free (another strong reason to go for this trip).
• Age Range: Perfect for all ages.

Pro Tips Plan out all the rides suitable for your kids’ age and height in advance. There’s a lot of walking, so I strongly advise you to bring a stroller.

Don’t forget to bring hats, sunglasses, mini fans, bandaids, sunscreen, and wipes. In addition, downloading the My Disney Experience app is extremely useful.

2. Walt Disney World – EPCOT

EPCOT has fewer rides than Magic Kingdom. Yet, it’s still worth the visit. Your little ones can enjoy a Frozen-themed boat ride and a Nemo-themed ride, among other marvelous activities.

• Work Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Late August (weekdays are less busy than weekends).
• Price: One-day one-park ticket to Disney World ranges from $109 to $189.
• Age Range: All ages.

Pro Tips The EPCOT Baby Care Center is great for feeding your baby or changing a diaper.

3. Walt Disney World – Animal Kingdom

The Animal Kingdom doesn’t scream Disney as much as the other parks, but it sure is fun to visit. Over there, your kids would love to watch some acrobatic performances. They can also enjoy other activities, including a boat ride down Avatar’s Na’vi River and a safari trip.

• Work Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Late August for school kids. As for younger children, January is better as the weather becomes milder.
• Price: One-day one-park ticket to Disney World ranges from $109 to $189.
• Age Range: All Ages.

Pro Tips If you haven’t already brought a stroller, you can rent one to make the visit less tiring for your kids. A single stroller is $15 per day, and a double one is $31 per day.

4. Walt Disney World – Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios has only a couple of rides with no height requirements. However, you can find many fun activities for your toddlers over there. With a theater showing short Mickey films to McQueen’s race simulator, your kids will never get bored.

• Work Hours: Sun.–Thu. 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Fri. & Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: The place is usually less crowded early morning and late at night.
• Price: One-day one-park ticket to Disney World ranges from $109 to $189.
• Age Range: All ages.

Pro Tips You can get a four-day four-park ticket for Disney World at a much cheaper price than buying them separately.

5. Universal Orlando Resort – Universal Studios

Most rides in Universal Studios have a minimum height requirement of 40 inches. So, if your kids are shorter than that, they may not find many rides to enjoy.

At Universal Studios, smaller toddlers can enter the Kang & Kodos Twirl ‘n’ Hurl ride and the E.T. Adventure. Plus, they can find cartoon characters all over the place, such as Minions, Dora the Explorer, Hello Kitty, SpongeBob characters, and much more.

• Work Hours: All days, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., except for Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: It’s best to stay away from spring break and try to plan your trip in late August.
• Price: Starting at $109 per day.
• Age Range: It’s fun for all ages.

Pro Tips If you stay at Universal Orlando Resort hotels, you get a one-hour early park admission. Otherwise, try to get there as early as possible (preferably 30 minutes before opening).

6. Universal Orlando Resort – Islands of Adventure

The Islands of Adventure has many more toddler-friendly rides, especially in Seuss Landing. From colorful carousels to joyful rides, you’ll never regret visiting such a place.

Additionally, your kids can have a super exciting time enjoying the play areas, characters meet and greet, and themed shows.

• Work Hours: Sun.–Wed. from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Thu. to Sat. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Wednesdays are the least crowded.
• Price: Starting from $109 per day.
• Age Range: Great for all ages.

Pro Tips If you purchase a park-to-park ticket, you can save your family the walk from Universal Studios by riding the Hogwarts Express.

7. Universal Orlando Resort – Volcano Bay

This spectacular water theme park is like no other. You can spend a super fun day with your kids, where they get to enjoy the slides, water guns, and splash fountains. Volcano Bay also has a relaxing winding river, a thrilling aqua coaster, and many more amazing rides.

• Work Hours: Mon.–Fri. From 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sat. & Sun. from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Early in the morning on a weekday.
• Price: Starting from $80 per day.
• Age Range: All Ages.

Pro Tips Renting a small cabana in Volcano Bay is a fantastic idea for the whole family to chill between rides (don’t forget the swimsuits and towels).

8. SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld is famous for its incredible aquatic shows, experiences, and themed rides. Your kids can have so much fun walking through the aquarium, watching a dolphin show, feeding sea lions, and seeing all the marine animals.

While you’re there, you shouldn’t miss Sesame Street Land. It’s an awesome place, full of interactive play, themed rides, and character encounters.

• Work Hours: Mon.–Thu. from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fri. from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m., Sat. from 12 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sun. from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Late August, just before returning to school.
• Price: The place offers many ticket options, starting from $134.99 per person.
• Age Range: Great for all ages.

Pro Tips Seaworld Orlando doesn’t allow outside food (except baby food). So, I recommend purchasing the All Day Dining Plan. It’s much cheaper than having to buy food every time your kids are hungry.

9. Legoland Florida Resort – Theme Park

Visiting Legoland is one of the greatest things to do in Orlando with toddlers. It contains kids-friendly rides and colorful playgrounds. Overthere, everything looks like it’s made of Lego. So, your little children can enjoy a magnificent ride in a life-size Lego car.

• Work Hours: Mon.–Fri. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sat. & Sun. from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Tuesday to Thursday are the least crowded days to visit Legoland. However, the activities are a bit more limited than on weekends.
• Price: Two-Day Legoland Theme Park + Water Park Tickets are $99.
• Age Range: Great for kids (ages 2–12) and wonderful for all Lego fans.

Pro Tips The Legoland app helps you to easily navigate through the park and find rides suitable for your children.

10. Legoland Florida Resort – Water Park

This water park is super toddler-friendly and one of the fun things to do in Orlando with kids. Even babies can have so much fun over there. From the lazy river to the Splash Safari, this place is packed with awesome activities for kids of all ages.

• Work Hours: Mon.–Fri. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat. & Sun. from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Monday is the least crowded day to visit Legoland water park.
• Price: Two-Day Legoland Theme Park + Water Park Tickets are $99.
• Age Range: Perfect for kids (ages 2–12).

Pro Tips Bring all the food, drinks, and snacks you need for the day. Additionally, you should pack a change of clothing for your kids, swimsuits, and towels.

Museums and Educational Attractions

Orlando has a collection of highly diverse museums suitable for kids of all ages and adults as well. So, you don’t have to plan the whole trip only around theme parks. Orlando museums and educational attractions are far from boring.

11. Orlando Science Center

Orlando Science Center has been a major family attraction for over 60 years. It’s one of the best things to do in Orlando for kids of all ages.

The center offers fun educational workshops, theaters, exhibits, and experiences. From the KidsTown Exhibit for young toddlers to The Hive: A Makerspace for children over eight years old, this place is mind-blowing.

• Work Hours: Every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (make sure to check before you go as these times are subject to change)
• Best Time To Visit: all year round (plan to spend at least three hours over there)
• Price: The entry fee for adults is $24, students & seniors $22, kids (ages 2–11) $18, and children under two enter for free.
• Age Range: Perfect for all ages.

Pro Tips You can purchase an annual membership if you plan to visit the place many times. For ten or more members, you get the best price. So, encourage other parents to join in.

12. The Orlando Fire Museum

This museum provides an excellent chance for your kids to know the incredible history of Orlando’s fire department. This red-brick-style firehouse place is worth visiting, featuring astonishing fire engines and antique equipment.

• Work Hours: Fri. & Sat. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: All year round.
• Price: Free (donation box available)
• Age Range: All ages.

Pro Tips The Orlando Fire Museum is within walking distance from the Orlando Science Center. So, I recommend combining them in a day’s schedule.

13. Crayola Experience

Toddlers spend the best time playing with crayons, and Crayola Experience is the ultimate place for such activities. Your kids can have the most fun crafting in the Activity Studio, watching a lovely show, or playing in the Color Playground, with over 20 other experiences.

• Work Hours: Every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: The place is less crowded first thing in the morning during weekdays.
• Price: $25.99 per ticket.
• Age Range: Kids of all ages.

Pro Tips Don’t forget to bring socks for your kids to spend some time in the play area. After your visit is over, plan to spend a couple of hours at the Florida Mall, where the Crayola Experience is located.

Outdoor Activities and Nature Parks

Orlando is famous for its mesmerizing collection of theme parks. Nonetheless, it’s also an amazing place for discovering the great outdoors. You can have numerous unforgettable adventures with your kids over there.

14. Kelly Park/Rock Springs Run

All man-made springs aside, this place is the real deal. Your kids will love having a picnic and camping in Kelly Park and Rock Springs Run. It’s an incredible place for families to go swimming, tubing, snorkeling, and water rafting.

Moreover, there’s also a playground for kids with slides, swings, and a jungle gym.

• Work Hours: All year round from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (it may close a bit earlier in winter)
• Best Time To Visit: The springs are marvelous but extremely crowded in summer. On the other hand, the trails get busier during Florisa’s mild winter.
• Price: $3 per vehicle (up to 8 people per vehicle) and $2 for each extra passenger.
• Age Range: All ages.

Pro Tips Make sure to bring all essentials, such as water, food, snacks, sunscreen, diapers, and wipes. Additionally, try to get there as early as possible, and don’t forget your camping gear, floats, and tubes.

15. Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park

This is a destination to include in your vacation schedule, especially if you have older kids. In this adventure park, all family members can test their inner adventurer by crossing rope courses and sliding across a thrilling zip line.

• Work Hours: The first group departure is at 8:30 a.m. (it’s better to check their time block upon booking as the hours are seasonal)
• Best Time To Visit: Early in the morning so you can take your time with all the challenges while the weather is pleasant.
• Price: An adult ticket (Ages 12+) is $59.95, a junior ticket (ages 9–11) is $46.95, and a kids ticket (ages 6–8) is $34.95.
• Age Range: 6+

Pro Tips Since you and your kids can try some exhilarating activities, make sure to dress appropriately. This means no loose clothing, open-toe shoes, or untied hair.

16. Gatorland

This is a perfect place for reptile fans (admit it, many kids develop an obsession for reptiles at some point). In Gatorland, your kids can have a live encounter with a baby alligator. They can also feed young gators and participate in several fun activities.

While you’re there, the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line is not to miss.

• Work Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: Early morning when it’s not too hot yet.
• Price: A ticket for an adult (age 13+) is $32.99, a child (age 3–12) is $22.99, and a senior (age 60+) is $31.98.
• Age Range: Good for all ages.

Pro Tips Make sure to bring some cash for your kids to feed the alligators. In addition, try not to miss the alligator shows, as they’re incredible. Aside from all the alligators, there’s also a remarkable splash pad area. So, make sure to pack some swimsuits to join in the fun.

Unique Attractions

If your family are fans of unusual activities, the following attractions are just for you. You can find amazing places in Orlando to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

17. Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

Yo-ho-ho! Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is incredible, offering a unique interactive pirate-themed dinner experience. Your family will have a spectacular time watching the dazzling show that takes place over a life-size pirate ship.

There’s no better way to spend an evening amid the vacation hubbub.

• Work Hours: The showtimes are Tue.–Fri. at 7:30 p.m., Sat. at 4:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., and Sun. at 6:00 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: It’s perfect to visit all year round.
• Price: Tickets start at $72.95 for a one-and-a-half-hour show, including dinner. A child ticket (ages 3–10) starts at $46.95.
• Age Range: 3+

Pro Tips Try to get there at least 45 minutes before the show starts, as the seating is first come, first serve.

18. Exotic Animal Experience

The Exotic Animal Experience is literally unique, as you don’t get to see such creatures anywhere else in the country. Your children can see and interact with zebras, kangaroos, lemurs, and much more animals.

• Work Hours: Sat. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: All year round.
• Price: Tickets start at $150 per person, depending on the experience package.
• Age Range: 10+

Pro Tips This is an appointment-only experience, and they have age restrictions. So, calling before you go is a wise thing to do.

19. Characters in Flight

Now called Aerophile, this balloon ride is amazing, allowing you to view the whole area of Disney World and its surroundings. Unlike hot air balloons, it’s operated by helium. Regardless, it’s an awesome experience.

• Work Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: During clear weather to best observe the horizon.
• Price: $25 for adults (ages 10+) and $20 for children (ages 3–9).
• Age Range: All ages (it can be a bit scary for some little kids).

Pro Tips Don’t bring anything with you to this ride, as they don’t permit it. So, no food, snacks, strollers, or even bags.

Free Things To Do in Orlando With Kids

With all these fascinating attractions, your spending can add up faster than you think. That’s why you should consider squeezing in a thing or two to do in Orlando for free.

For a nice evening out, head to Universal CityWalk. It’s an entertainment complex where you can enjoy live DJ parties, dance performances, and free water taxi rides. The place also contains a splash area for the kids to have fun.

Another cool place is Lake Eola Park. You can have a lovely picnic with your family over there. Additionally, your children can find plenty of activities to do in its huge playground.

Other free things to do in Orlando include biking nature trails, checking out Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, and cooling off in one of the city’s splash pads.

That said, it always helps to stay on the hunt for free admissions and special discounts on the Internet.

Family-friendly Dining in Orlando

Let’s be real here. It’s a challenge to eat out in a fancy restaurant with your kids bouncing off the whole place. So, when it’s time for dinner, it’s better to find a family-friendly restaurant.

Naturally, the best seafood restaurants are in Florida, and Grills Lakeside Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar is no exception.

This huge lakeside eatery offers a mouthwatering array of heavenly seafood dishes with a view. Moreover, it has a spectacular fully-enclosed playground for your kids to play safely.

Similar restaurants with great atmospheres and super fun kids’ facilities include The Waterfront, Boxi Park, and Joe’s Crab Shack.

FAQs

Conclusion

Visiting Orlando is every child’s dream from 0 to 100 years of age. I mean, who wouldn’t love a trip to some of the world’s famous theme parks? Fortunately, you can find numerous other things to do in Orlando with kids.

All you need to do is plan your trip carefully, book all admission tickets in advance, and have the time of your life with your family.

Nadia Podrabinek

Hello, my name is Nadia.

I usually write about traveling (there are so many places to fit all the lifestyles), relocation (finding a job overseas or moving without losing an income), and living in a foreign country (adapting to a different culture and mentality). Follow me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn!