Orlando with Kids
Orlando with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide (2026)
Everything parents need to know before visiting Orlando, from family-friendly hotels and attractions to practical tips for a smoother vacation.
⭐ Recommended™ Quick Picks
🏨 Best Family Hotel
Hyatt Regency
Orlando
🎢 Best Theme Park
Universal Studios
🌊 Best Water Park
Island H2O Water Park
🐊 Best Wildlife Experience
Wild Florida Safari
🚁 Most Unique Experience
Helicopter Tour over Orlando
A Recommended™ Guide to fun experiences
Planning an Orlando vacation with children is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. With world-famous theme parks, water parks, wildlife adventures, interactive museums and countless family-friendly attractions, deciding what to do (and where to stay) isn’t always easy.
This guide brings together everything parents should know before visiting Orlando with kids. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, school-age children or teenagers, you’ll find recommendations that help you spend less time planning and more time making memories together.
Where Should Families Stay?
👨👩👧 Hyatt Regency Orlando
Ideal for families wanting plenty of amenities close to International Drive.
🏨 SpringHill Suites
Excellent for larger families thanks to spacious suites and complimentary breakfast.
🌴 DoubleTree by Hilton
Family-friendly pools and convenient access to SeaWorld and nearby attractions.
Explore All Recommended™
Best Things to Do with Kids
Every family is different, but these attractions consistently deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages.
🎢 Universal Orlando Resort
Perfect for families with older children, combining thrilling rides, immersive themed lands and the exciting Volcano Bay water park.
🏰 Walt Disney World®
The ultimate Orlando family experience featuring magical attractions, character encounters and entertainment across four incredible parks.
🐠 SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium
An excellent indoor attraction featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating marine life for younger visitors.
🚀 Kennedy Space Center
Educational, inspiring and unforgettable for curious children interested in science and space exploration.
🦁 Wild Florida
A fantastic alternative to the theme parks where children can see giraffes, zebras, alligators and native wildlife up close.
Discover More Things To Do
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Travelling with children usually means balancing great food with a relaxed atmosphere.
Some of our favourite family-friendly restaurants include:
🍽️ Mythos Restaurant
🍖 Smokemade Meats + Eats
🍩 Gaston’s Tavern
🔥 Polynesian Fire Luau Dinner Show
Each offers something different, from immersive dining experiences to relaxed family meals.
Explore more food options in
🎒 Pack Smart
Bring;
– Refillable water bottles – Sunscreen
– Lightweight rain jackets
– Comfortable walking shoes.
☀️ Start Early
Florida afternoons become hot and busy.
Arriving early often means shorter queues and happier children.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when visiting theme parks.
📱 Download Park Apps
Disney and Universal apps help you monitor waiting times, mobile food ordering and park maps.
😴 Plan Breaks
Don’t try to do everything in one day.
A mid-afternoon hotel break often makes evenings much more enjoyable.
Free Things to Do with Kids
Not every memorable family activity needs an admission ticket.
Consider;
🌴 Lake Eola Park
🎈 Disney Springs
🚶 International Drive
🦢 Winter Park Scenic Walks
🎨 Celebration Town
These places are perfect for relaxing between busier attraction days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Orlando suitable for toddlers?
Absolutely. Attractions like SEA LIFE Aquarium, LEGOLAND Florida and PEPPA PIG Theme Park are designed with younger children in mind.
Do I need a rental car?
A rental car offers the greatest flexibility, especially if you plan to visit attractions beyond the main theme parks. If you’re staying near International Drive or inside a Disney resort, many visitors find shuttle services and rideshare options sufficient.
How many days should families spend in Orlando?
For a first visit, four to seven days provides enough time to enjoy the major parks while leaving room for rest, dining and exploring beyond the attractions.
When is the best time to visit Orlando with children?
Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant weather and more manageable crowds than peak holiday periods, making them popular choices for families.
Make Your Family Vacation Even Better
Orlando offers something for every age, but the best family trips begin with good planning. Choosing the right hotel, balancing busy attraction days with time to relax and booking popular experiences in advance can make your vacation far more enjoyable.
Explore our Recommended™ guides below to continue planning your Orlando adventure;