Things To Do In Orlando With Kids

I remember the first time I took my kids to Orlando — it was chaotic, exhausting, and unforgettable. We had no idea what we were getting into, but we did know one thing: we wanted a destination where our kids could experience something magical. Orlando, with its theme parks, museums, and immersive experiences, turned out to be the perfect place to create lasting memories. The keyword 'things to do in Orlando with kids' isn't just a search term; it's the starting point for a family adventure that can be as thrilling as it is educational.^[2]

What struck me the most was the sheer variety of options available to families. From the awe-inspiring rides at Walt Disney World to the interactive exhibits at the Florida Museum of Natural History, there's something for every age and interest. Even my three-year-old found joy in the hands-on science displays, while my teenagers were captivated by the futuristic attractions. It's not just about the parks — it's about finding the perfect balance between fun and learning, and Orlando delivers that in spades.^[3]

Orlando isn't just a place — it's a feeling. It's the smell of cotton candy in the air, the rush of a roller coaster, the laughter of children discovering a new world. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, the city offers a mix of excitement, education, and wonder that keeps families coming back. And if you're still not sure where to start, the following guide will show you exactly what 'things to do in Orlando with kids' can look like — and how to make the most of it.^[4]

Walt Disney World: A Magical Experience for Every Age

As of September 2026, Walt Disney World is the crown jewel of Orlando, and for good reason. I remember standing in front of Cinderella’s Castle with my kids, their eyes wide with wonder as they took in the spectacle. The park isn't just about rides — it's about creating magical memories. From the gentle teacup rides to the high-speed roller coasters, there's something for every child and parent. One of my favorite moments was watching my daughter ride the 'Seven Dwarfs Mine Train' with her eyes locked on the lights and music.

What also impresses me is how Disney has managed to blend education with entertainment. The Animal Kingdom, for example, is not just a place to see animals — it's a learning experience with live shows, interactive exhibits, and even conservation talks. My kids picked up more about wildlife and ecosystems than they ever did in school, all while having fun. Plus, the park offers a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining, which is a relief after a day of running around.

I should also mention the convenience of the park. With FastPass+ and Genie+ systems, we were able to skip the lines on most of our favorite rides — a game-changer when you're dealing with tired kids and a limited time.

Part of our Usa family road trip itineraries with kids family guide.

Universal Orlando Resort: Thrills, Magic, and More

Universal Orlando is another must-visit when planning 'things to do in Orlando with kids.' The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a showstopper — my kids loved the interactive shops, the animatronic characters. The Forbidden Journey ride. It's not just about the rides; it's about the immersive experience that feels like you're walking through the pages of a book.

The park also offers a unique blend of entertainment, from the high-speed roller coasters at Islands of Adventure to the more family-friendly attractions at Universal's Volcano Bay. My son was thrilled with the water slides, while my daughter spent hours exploring the interactive exhibits at the new Super Nintendo World. It's a great place to spend a day or two, and the park even offers family-friendly dining options that are both affordable and fun.

I should also mention that Universal has a great system for managing wait times. With their Express Pass, we were able to ride almost all the attractions we wanted without waiting in long lines. It's a small investment that can save hours of waiting — and it's a relief for tired parents.

From the magical world of Harry Potter to the high-speed fun of Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando has something for every kid.

Related: Budget usa family road trip itineraries with

Epcot: A Blend of Culture, Food, and Fun

Epcot is a different kind of park — it's less about rides and more about experiences. I was particularly impressed with the World Showcase, where each country has its own pavilion with unique attractions, food, and culture. My kids loved trying food from around the world, and I found it a great way to teach them about different cultures in a fun and engaging way.

The park also has a lot of educational exhibits and shows. My daughter was fascinated by the 'Innoventions' pavilion, where they could see the latest in technology and innovation. Meanwhile, my son enjoyed the rides like the 'Test Track' and the 'Soarin' Over the World' attraction. It's a park that manages to be both educational and entertaining.

I should also note that Epcot is a great place for dining. With a variety of options from around the world, we were able to find something that suited every member of our family — and even made a few new foodie friends along the way.

“I remember the first time I took my kids to Orlando — it was chaotic, exhausting, and ultimately unforgettable.”— Backseat Atlas editors

Related: Diy usa family road trip itineraries with kids family

The Orlando Science Center: Learning Through Play

If you're looking for an educational yet fun activity, the Orlando Science Center is a must-visit. My kids loved the hands-on exhibits, from the planetarium to the interactive physics displays. It's a place where they can learn about the universe, the human body, and even engineering — all while having fun.

The center also offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, from science shows to family workshops. My daughter participated in a 'Science on the Move' event, where she learned about different scientific concepts through interactive demonstrations. It's a great way to make learning fun and engaging for kids.

Another thing I love about the science center is its affordability. Compared to the theme parks, it's a more budget-friendly option that still offers a lot of value. It's a great place to spend an afternoon and come away with a new appreciation for science.

Related: Diy usa family road trip itineraries with

The Florida Museum of Natural History: A Journey Through Time

The Florida Museum of Natural History is a hidden gem in Orlando. I was particularly impressed by the 'Gatorama' exhibit, where we saw a variety of Florida wildlife, from alligators to manatees. My kids were fascinated by the live animal shows and the interactive exhibits that allowed them to learn about the local ecosystem.

The museum also has a variety of other exhibits, from the ancient Egyptian artifacts to the 'Butterfly Rainforest' where we could walk through a living tropical rainforest. It's a great place to spend a few hours and learn about Florida's natural and cultural history.

What I also love about the museum is its hands-on approach. There are interactive exhibits where kids can learn about geology, anthropology, and even archaeology. It's a great place to spark a lifelong interest in science and history.

Related: Budget usa family road trip itineraries kids

Disney Springs: A Day of Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

Disney Springs is more than just a shopping mall — it's a destination in its own right. My kids loved the arcade games and the variety of shops, from high-end brands to fun, themed stores. We spent hours exploring the different areas of the park, from the Marketplace to the Village Green.

The dining options at Disney Springs are also worth mentioning. We tried a few of the restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining, and found something that suited every member of our family. My daughter loved the 'Top of the World' restaurant, where we could see the entire park while dining.

I should also note that Disney Springs is a great place to catch a show or event. From live performances to seasonal festivals, there's always something happening. It's a great way to spend an evening with the kids and enjoy some quality family time.

From the shops of Disney Springs to the dining options, it's a day of fun and entertainment that the whole family will enjoy.

Related: Stray kids tour dates

The ICON Park: A Unique Experience for Families

ICON Park is another great destination for families with kids. I was particularly impressed with the 'The Wheel,' which offers a panoramic view of Orlando from 400 feet up. It's a great way to see the city and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.^[1]

The park also has a variety of other attractions, from the 'Dinosaurs Alive!' exhibit to the 'Crayola Experience.' My daughter loved the Crayola Experience, where she could create her own art and take home a bag of crayons. It's a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon.

ICON Park is also home to a variety of dining options, from casual to upscale. We tried a few of the restaurants and found that the food was both delicious and reasonably priced. It's a great place to spend a day and have fun without the crowds of the theme parks.

Things To Do In Orlando With Kids