Walt Disney World is a top choice for families with young children, particularly Magic Kingdom, which features gentle rides, character meet-and-greets, parades, and nightly fireworks. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also popular for its safari experiences, animal encounters, and family-friendly shows.

Universal Orlando Resort offers Universal’s Islands of Adventure with Seuss Landing and other areas designed for younger visitors, though more attractions cater to older kids and teens. LEGOLAND Florida, located in nearby Winter Haven, is especially well-suited to ages 2–12, with brick-themed rides, water play areas, and interactive building zones.

When planning, consider height requirements, ride intensity, and shade or indoor options for breaks, especially during hotter months.

Orlando offers a range of kid-friendly activities beyond theme parks. Families often enjoy visiting the Orlando Science Center for hands-on exhibits, live science demonstrations, and kid-focused play areas. The SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Gatorland are popular for close-up animal encounters and educational experiences.

ICON Park on International Drive provides attractions such as The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel with panoramic views, as well as arcade-style entertainment and family restaurants. For outdoor fun, Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando offers paddleboats, playgrounds, and open space for picnics.

Many resorts and local businesses also host mini-golf courses, indoor trampoline parks, and escape-room experiences adapted for families, giving you flexible options for half-day or evening outings.

When traveling with kids of different ages, aim for a balanced schedule that mixes high-energy attractions with quieter breaks. Choose at least one park day that heavily favors younger children, such as Magic Kingdom or LEGOLAND, and another that includes more thrilling rides for older kids, such as Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure.

Build in rest periods during the hottest parts of the day by returning to your hotel for swimming or naps, or scheduling indoor attractions and shows. Look for areas within each park where younger children can play while older siblings try more intense rides, and use rider swap programs where available so adults can take turns on attractions without extra waiting.

Finally, involve older children in choosing a few “must-do” activities and confirm height requirements in advance so expectations are clear and everyone feels included in the planning process.

For more comfortable weather and relatively lighter crowds, consider visiting Orlando with kids in late winter or early spring, such as late January through early March, avoiding major holiday weekends and school vacation periods. Another good window is late April to early May, before summer heat and peak tourism fully arrive.

Fall can also be a strong option, particularly late September through early November, when many parks offer seasonal events and temperatures gradually become more manageable. Summer and major holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s, are typically the busiest and hottest times, with longer lines and higher rates.

Regardless of season, plan to start your days early, use mobile apps for wait times, and schedule indoor attractions or pool breaks during the midday heat to keep kids comfortable.

To keep kids comfortable and safe, prioritize hydration, sun protection, and regular breaks. Bring refillable water bottles, and encourage frequent sipping throughout the day. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, hats, and lightweight, breathable clothing to protect against sun exposure, and take advantage of shaded areas and indoor attractions during peak midday heat.

For younger children, consider a stroller or stroller rental even if they typically walk on their own, as distances in parks can be significant. Establish meeting points and review basic safety instructions so older kids know what to do if they become separated. Use ID bracelets or cards with a parent’s contact information for younger children who may not remember phone numbers.

Plan meals and snacks at consistent intervals to maintain energy levels, and be flexible enough to shorten your day if children show signs of fatigue or overstimulation, helping to keep the experience positive for the entire family.