Orlando with Kids: Disney, Universal & Theme Park Tips

Orlando is the theme park capital of the world, and a trip of a lifetime for many families. With so many parks, the secret is choosing the right ones for your kids’ ages, booking ahead and building in pool days.

Where to stay in Orlando with kids

• Walt Disney World resort hotels: free transport (buses, Skyliner gondolas, monorail) and early park entry. Ideal for a Disney-focused trip.
• Universal Orlando hotels: walk or take a boat to the parks. Some include Express Passes.
• International Drive: central for every park, with lots of restaurants and family hotels.
• Kissimmee vacation homes: villas with private pools and space to nap. Great value for bigger families.

Which parks to choose

• Magic Kingdom: the best first Disney park for little ones, with Fantasyland, characters and parades.
• Animal Kingdom: a safari ride, shows and lots of shade.
• EPCOT & Hollywood Studios: better for slightly older kids, with Frozen, Toy Story and Star Wars lands.
• Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure: best for ages 6+, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• Epic Universe: Universal’s newest park, opened in 2025, including Super Nintendo World.
• SeaWorld and Legoland Florida: more relaxed days. Legoland (about 45 minutes away) is made for ages 2–12.
• Kennedy Space Center: a full day for space-mad kids, about an hour away.

Theme park tips for families

• Rider Switch: at Disney and Universal, one adult rides while the other waits with a little one, then they swap without queuing again.
• Baby Care Centers: every Disney park has one, with changing tables, nursing rooms and a quiet space.
• Rope drop: arrive at opening for the shortest queues, then rest at the hotel midday.
• Book dining early: character meals sell out months ahead.

Getting around Orlando

• Car hire: the most flexible option for off-site stays. Add a car seat or booster.
• Disney transport: buses, the monorail and Skyliner connect Disney hotels and parks.
• Stroller rental: available in the parks, or rent a sturdier one from a local service delivered to your hotel.

Where to eat with kids

• Character dining: breakfast with Mickey or princesses is a highlight for many kids.
• Quick-service restaurants: every park offers kids meals with healthier sides.
• Bring refillable water bottles; ice water is free at quick-service counters in Disney parks.

See more of the US in our United States with kids guide.