Top things to do in Orlando

Not only is Orlando king of the theme parks it is also host to an amazing variety of water parks, perfect havens for the young ones to splash around or float on a gently meandering lazy river while the thrill seekers amongst you can continue to get your adrenalin rush on some jaw-dropping water slides.

Universals Volcano Bay has four themed areas dominated by the 200 foot high Krakatau Volcano, (not real!). The park has been designed with a South Pacific feel and features Rainforest Village, Waturi Beach, Wave Village and River Village, aimed at providing fun for younger visitors. The South Seas experience can also be found at Aquatica. Highlights here include a 330 foot slide that will plunge you past dolphins, sharks and numerous varieties of other marine life; the park also provides an opportunity to take part in some competitive, white water rafting.

Of course Disney is also in on the act, Typhoon Lagoon is a ‘storm affected’ location that features water based rides from the gentle and serene to the truly terrifying such as Humunga Kowabunga, a sheer, 5 storey drop – in the dark!! Ice and snow is the story at Blizzard Beach, where ski lifts can be taken to access the many rides and features, including pools covered in floating ice.

The LEGOLAND water park is very family friendly with rides of a more gentle nature and experiences built around the famous bricks. There are opportunities to build rafts and boats which can then be sailed on dedicated areas as well as many slides and water based play areas. Our final recommendation is the magical Discovery Cove, where the fun is based around getting close to nature. Hand feed exotic birds, swim with dolphins and sharks, snorkel with tropical fish or play around with otters and marmosets at Freshwater Oasis.

Whichever park you chose they all provide everything you could possibly need from towels to sun tan cream, to ensure that your day by the water is truly unforgettable.

For many visitors, Florida and Disney are intertwined and the main reason that millions of tourists flock to this part of the US every year.

Walt Disney World Resort is arguably the most famous theme park on the planet with its four distinct areas and two water parks: Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park. This 40 square mile complex has, not just something, but everything for everyone.

Magic Kingdom, dominated by Cinderella’s Castle must be imprinted on nearly every child’s mind. This part of the park brings cartoon characters to life, making fantasy reality. Toddlers to adults are entertained by immersive, make believe worlds and thrilling rides such as Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Themed restaurants are plentiful and if you are lucky you may even get to share dinner with Mickey Mouse.

When you are through with fiction, how about encountering some reality in Animal Kingdom. View thousands of animals in tastefully designed representations of their natural environments; learn about their lives and even get up close and personnel on special, behind the scenes tours. Of course being Disney, thrills are only just around the corner as you help track down poachers on Safari or soar over the park on the back of a banshee.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a collection of rides and shows that take you into the world of the movies. Take control of a Millennium Falcon, join Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Train or shrink to the size of a toy and jump on Slinky Dog as he journey’s through Toy Story Land. Whatever you choose it will be guaranteed fun.

Epcot is a celebration of the global community and science. Food, culture and architecture of 11 countries is on display at the World Showcase and special events are held throughout the year. Opportunities for adventure include a hang gliding trip across the globe or a musical journey through the world of Frozen. The science section provides educational insights into the world of today and tomorrow and you can take time to design and participate in a virtual car ride or join a shuttle simulator to the stars.

Universal Orlando Resort is an epic celebration of all things cinema, immersing you in a world where fantasy and reality mix to create a heady assault on the senses. Split into four main areas the resort provides the opportunity for film fans of all ages to indulge in a variety of spectacular movie and TV themed fun.

Universal Orlando Resort is an epic celebration of all things cinema, a dream come true for film and TV fans of all ages. This epic theme park complex is divided into four main areas, each offering unique adventures:

Universal CityWalk is a lively entertainment centre that provides the perfect starting point for your Universal Orlando experience. Here you'll find bustling shops filled with movie and TV merchandise, delicious restaurants serving everything from Mexican cuisine to classic Italian dishes, lively bars serving refreshing cocktails and electrifying theatres.

Universal's Islands of Adventure is an action-packed adventure through TV and film. Thrill-seekers can brave the incredible Hulk rollercoaster turning through 360 degrees while travelling at 67 mph or battle mischievous aliens in Men in Black. Islands of Adventure is a Harry Potter fan's paradise, with themed shops, restaurants like Leaky Cauldron and the chance to pick your own wand at Ollivanders. And don't worry, little ones won't be left out: there are plenty of rides and quieter shows to keep them entertained.

Go behind the scenes and into the heart of your favourite movies and TV shows at Universal Studios Florida. Explore backstage areas, meet your favourite characters and experience thrilling rides that bring the big screen to life. Top attractions include an alien attack from Men in Black, a flight through the night sky with E.T. and a hilarious trip in the Krusty Burger from The Simpsons.

After a fast-paced day at the movies, cool off and relax at Volcano Bay, Universal's water paradise. Relax on the pristine shores of Waturi Beach, where the surf is always up, or float down the gentle Kopiko Wai River. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of high-speed slides and breathtaking plunges to get your pulse racing.

And finally, mark your calendars, film fans! DreamWorks Land, a brand new immersive park featuring characters from Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, Trolls and How to Train Your Dragon, will open at Universal Orlando Resort in summer 2024.

Want to boost your social media following with great photos of you rubbing shoulders with the stars? Then head to Madame Tussauds to mingle and party with the elite, help save the world with the Justice League or join Neil Armstrong as he sets foot on the moon.

Located in the new I-Drive complex, which also includes the Orlando Eye and Sea Life Aquarium, the famous wax museum is a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. Inside, over 200 life-size models of actors, sports stars and historical figures are displayed in realistic settings, often providing excellent photo opportunities: join Oprah on stage, help Superman rescue a plummeting helicopter, sign some papers with Barack Obama at his White House desk or join Tiger Woods on the golf course. Whichever person you choose to pose with, you're sure to have a great time and leave with some incredible photos.

This beautifully sculptured, 43 acre site is in the middle of downtown Orlando, close to the popular and picturesque district of Thornton Park. Lake Eola Park offers a haven of tranquillity and is a great place to relax and unwind. Centred around a large lake, with a spectacular fountain, the park provides the perfect chance to reconnect with nature. There is a mile long walk that contours the lake's edge and provides an ideal opportunity to observe the many hundreds of swans and other wild birds that call the lake their home.

There are a variety of things to do within the park including hiring a swan-shaped boat for a trip over the water. You can also take a guided tour to discover the park's history and encounter some of the many works of art dotted around the park. Or just let the kids loose on the playground. On Sundays, a vibrant Farmers Market is a popular attraction, selling local produce as well as arts and crafts products.