Orlando Activities for the Whole Family
Orlando is a perfect destination for family vacations! Whether you're traveling with the kids, or have multiple generations rolling in the same minivan, Orlando offers several attractions and activities that can be enjoyed by the whole gang. Theme parks have a tendency to bring out the kid in everyone, while other nearby attractions such as Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center will capture the imagination of any individual, whether seven or 70. If you're still having doubts about the family friendliness of Orlando, consider a few of these activities to alleviate those thoughts.Orlando's Theme Parks
With theme parks such as Sea World and Disney's Animal Kingdom Park, there won't be a member of the family who isn't wowed by the strength, athleticism and natural habitat of animals from different worlds. And for those that love thrill seeking, parks such as Universal's Islands of Adventure offer great rides that are perfect for every age -- especially if you've got tough-to-please teenagers in your crew.
Disney World's Magic Kingdom is a special place that seems to erase the number associated with your time spent on this planet and transport you back to age nine. There's nothing quite like a visit to Cinderella's castle or a ride on Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, no matter what your age. And to see the look on a child's face the first time they see their favorite Disney characters, you'll be softer than chocolate on a hot day. Disney World Orlando is one of the top attractions in the city for a reason.
Orlando's Dinner Shows
Arabian Nights
An indoor arena, a phenomenal live show starring a prince, princess, genie and nearly 50 magnificent horses, plus a delicious prime rib dinner served with unlimited beer, wine or soft drinks: That's exactly what you can expect at Arabian Nights on your Orlando vacation. The most difficult task in viewing this show is actually getting the younger members of the family to eat their meal. Once they're encouraged to do so, you may find the experience to be the most entertaining dinner you've ever enjoyed.
Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede
A personal favorite, this dinner show is similar to Arabian Nights, yet offers a classic North vs. South, Blue vs. Gray, Yankee vs. Southerner twist. Enjoy a meal that is perfect without silverware, and instead of clapping, you'll kick a hinged baseboard located perfectly at your feet, creating the "stampede." The show is uniquely "Americana," and if you've never seen someone ride an ostrich, well...get on over to the Dixie Stampede.
Gatorland, FunSpot and WonderWorks
When the family has a little energy that needs to be properly dispelled, Orlando attractions such as Gatorland, FunSpot and WonderWorks will fill the void for a few hours. At Gatorland, you can get about as close to our ancient reptilian friends as you could ever want. Enjoy the "show" as the staff members wrestle, play and feed these phenomenal beasts.
At FunSpot, you'll find a variety of go-carts on multiple tracks. And once you've gotten your fill of speed on the raceway, you can give the bumper cars a try, play some games in the arcade or enjoy the view from the Ferris wheel. For the youngsters, there's even a carnival area with rides that are perfectly geared to their level of fun.
From the road, WonderWorks looks like a construction project gone wrong; it's a southern mansion picked up and dumped on its roof. The goodies on the inside are just as entertaining, as you might actually have fun while learning something in a hands-on environment.
Yes, Orlando is the capital for family fun. To find the next attraction, you only need to open your eyes and rotate your head in any direction.
