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Orlando is packed with some of the best theme parks in the world. From big-name resorts to unique local attractions, there’s something here for every kind of visitor. Here’s a quick look at what each park offers and why it might be the right fit for your trip.

Skip to the good part: Here’s what you can expect in this Orlando theme park guide

  1. The best theme parks in Orlando
  2. Top rides at each park
  3. A budget lowdown
  4. How kid-friendly is each park
  5. What can adults look forward to
  6. Park locations & nearby attractions
  7. A quick look at the parks side-by-side
  8. Frequently asked questions about the theme parks

From coasters to classics: Compare Orlando’s top rides

Walt Disney World Orlando

  • Number of rides: 50+ rides and attractions across four theme parks
  • Top attractions: Space Mountain, Avatar Flight of Passage, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
  • Average wait time: 45–60 mins on popular rides, up to 2+ hours during peak holidays
  • Best suited for: Families, Disney fans, and anyone looking for a mix of classic rides and immersive worlds

Universal Studios Orlando

  • Number of rides: 30+ rides and shows across two parks
  • Top attractions: Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster
  • Average wait time: 40–50 mins on average, with big-name rides hitting 1–2 hours during peak times
  • Best suited for: Thrill seekers, teens, and adults who love movies, coasters, and action-packed rides

Gatorland

  • Number of rides: A handful of adventure experiences in addition to wildlife exhibits
  • Top attractions: Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure, and Gator Jumparoo Show
  • Average wait time: Usually under 30 mins, except for zip line and adventure add-ons
  • Best suited for: Families, animal lovers, and visitors looking for a unique Florida experience

WonderWorks Orlando

  • Number of rides: Around 10 interactive attractions plus 100+ hands-on exhibits
  • Top attractions: 4D XD Motion Theater, Glow-in-the-Dark Ropes Course, Laser Tag, and Wonder Zones
  • Average wait time: 20–30 mins for main attractions, though most exhibits are walk-up
  • Best suited for: Families with kids, groups, and anyone wanting an indoor day of fun

Our recommendation: For the biggest variety of rides and attractions, Walt Disney World Orlando is the clear winner, while Universal Studios Orlando is perfect if you want blockbuster experiences and high-energy rides.

Psst… we’re letting you in on something

Skip-the-line add-ons are your golden ticket to riding more and stressing less. With an Express Pass, you can breeze past regular queues at most rides at Universal Studios Orlando. At Disney World, Genie+ and Lightning Lane give you faster access to top attractions, so you fit in more magic in one day.

From budget to big spenders: How much do these theme parks cost?

Most theme parks in Orlando range from $30 to $150 per ticket, depending on the park and the type of ticket you choose. We’ll break it down for you and point out which ones give the best value on a budget and which ones are truly worth the price.

High-end theme parks

  • Prices: Starting from around $109–$150 per day
  • Your options: Walt Disney World Orlando, Universal Studios Orlando
  • Why go for it: These are the big names with the most variety, from roller coasters and immersive lands to world-class shows and dining. Tickets are pricey, but the scale and quality of experiences make them absolutely worth it.

Budget-friendly theme parks

  • Prices: Starting from $30–$40 per ticket
  • Your options: Gatorland, WonderWorks Orlando
  • Why go for it: These parks are easier on the wallet and still deliver a fun day out. Gatorland is perfect for outdoor adventure and wildlife encounters, while WonderWorks is a fantastic indoor option with hands-on activities for kids.

Bringing the kids? Here’s how each Orlando park stacks up

Heading to a theme park with kids can take some planning. Here’s a quick look at child-friendly rides, facilities, and what each park offers for families.

Walt Disney World Orlando

  • Kid-friendly rides: It’s a paradise for kids with classics like “It’s a Small World,” “Dumbo the Flying Elephant,” “Peter Pan’s Flight,” and Toy Story Land rides.
  • Eateries: There are dozens of restaurants, cafes, and quick-service counters across all four parks. There are plenty of kid-friendly menus and snacks.
  • Height requirements: Many rides have no minimum height, making them accessible for all ages. Bigger coasters typically start at 40 inches (102 cm).
  • Additional facilities: Baby Care Centers in each park, stroller rentals, first-aid stations, and stroller-friendly paths.

Universal Studios Orlando

  • Kid-friendly rides: “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “Shrek 4-D,” “The Cat in the Hat,” “Flight of the Hippogriff,” and play areas like “Fievel’s Playland.”
  • Eateries: Family dining options, themed restaurants like Three Broomsticks and Krusty Burger, plus plenty of snack stalls.
  • Height requirements: Some rides have lower minimums (around 36 inches / 92 cm), but most major attractions start at 40–48 inches.
  • Additional facilities: Stroller rentals, family restrooms, nursing rooms, and first-aid centers are available in all parks.

Gatorland

  • Kid-friendly attractions: Gator Gully Splash Park, petting zoo, aviary, and safe viewing areas for animal shows.
  • Eateries: A main restaurant and snack stands serving kid-friendly meals.
  • Height requirements: Most exhibits and shows have no restrictions; adventure add-ons like the zip line require a minimum height of 37 inches.
  • Additional facilities: Restrooms, stroller-friendly walkways, shaded areas, and first-aid stations.

WonderWorks Orlando

  • Kid-friendly attractions: Bubble Lab, Imagination Lab, glow-in-the-dark ropes course, and Wonder Zones designed for hands-on play.
  • Eateries: A café on-site with pizzas, snacks, and drinks.
  • Height requirements: Most exhibits are open to all ages. The ropes course requires a minimum height of 42 inches (106 cm).
  • Additional facilities: Restrooms, stroller accessibility, baby changing facilities, and first-aid support.

Our recommendation: If you’re traveling with kids under 10, Walt Disney World and WonderWorks Orlando are the easiest picks thanks to their wide range of accessible attractions and family services. Families with older kids who enjoy more action will love Universal Studios Orlando.

Family-friendly hack: rider swap at Orlando parks

Traveling with little ones who can’t go on certain rides? Don’t sweat it! With Rider Swap programs at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, one adult can wait with the child while the other rides, then switch without waiting in line again. It’s the perfect way for parents to enjoy big attractions without missing out, and without the stress of splitting up the family.

Beyond the rides: The parks for adults & groups

Walt Disney World Orlando

  • Relaxation: Take breaks at shaded rest spots, resort-style lounges, or even rent a private cabana at the water parks.
  • Unique experiences: From EPCOT’s world-class festivals and food tours to behind-the-scenes safaris at Animal Kingdom, there’s plenty for adults.
  • Dining: 200+ dining options ranging from fine dining to themed quick-service spots—perfect for group meals.

Universal Studios Orlando

  • Relaxation: Chill in themed lounges, grab a butterbeer in the Wizarding World, or enjoy pool access at nearby Universal resorts.
  • Unique experiences: Live shows like The Bourne Stuntacular, backstage tours, and CityWalk nightlife make it a great pick for adults.
  • Dining: Dozens of restaurants and bars, both inside the parks and at CityWalk, from fast bites to full-service experiences.

Gatorland

  • Relaxation: Covered picnic areas and shaded pathways make it easy to slow down between exhibits.
  • Unique experiences: Gator wrestling shows, zip lines over the alligator marsh, and trainer-for-a-day programs.
  • Dining: Casual food outlets with Southern-style bites like BBQ, gator nuggets, and family-friendly snacks.

WonderWorks Orlando

  • Relaxation: Take it easy with interactive exhibits at your own pace—lots of seating areas throughout.
  • Unique experiences: Indoor ropes course, laser tag, and 100+ hands-on science exhibits make it fun for groups.
  • Dining: On-site café with pizzas, sandwiches, and quick meals—plus plenty of nearby International Drive restaurants.
Did you know?

Walt Disney World Orlando is so big, it’s about the same size as San Francisco. That’s over 40 square miles of pure magic, rides, and entertainment packed into one destination!

Map it out: Location & nearby things to do

Walt Disney World Orlando

  • Location: Bay Lake & Lake Buena Vista, about 20 miles southwest of downtown Orlando.
  • Commute options: Car, shuttle buses, taxis, and rideshares are the most convenient options. Disney also runs its own transport system (monorails, buses, ferries).
  • Size: 25,000 acres | Mega (it’s basically its own city).
  • Things to do nearby:
    • Disney Springs: Shopping, dining, and live entertainment.
    • Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets: Designer shopping at discounted prices.

Universal Studios Orlando

  • Location: Universal Blvd, just off International Drive, around 10 miles from downtown Orlando.
  • Commute options: Car, shuttle buses, taxis, and rideshares. Many hotels nearby also offer free shuttles.
  • Size: 735 acres (including Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and CityWalk).
  • Things to do nearby:
    • ICON Park: Home to The Wheel, Madame Tussauds, and plenty of dining spots.
    • International Drive: Packed with attractions, mini-golf, bars, and restaurants.

Gatorland

  • Location: South Orlando, on Orange Blossom Trail (SR 441), about 15–20 minutes from the airport.
  • Commute options: Car, taxi, or rideshare. Limited bus connections are available.
  • Size: 110 acres | Moderate.
  • Things to do nearby:
    • The Florida Mall: One of Orlando’s biggest malls, great for shopping and dining.
    • Crayola Experience: Perfect for families with kids who love creative play.

WonderWorks Orlando

  • Location: On International Drive, right in the middle of Orlando’s tourist district.
  • Commute options: Car, I-Ride Trolley, bus, or rideshare. Very easy to get to.
  • Size: Indoor attraction spread over 35,000 sq. ft.
  • Things to do nearby:
    • Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando: Quirky and fun museum just a short walk away.
    • ICON Park: A hotspot for dining, nightlife, and attractions.

The takeaway: All these Orlando parks are well-connected and easy to reach. Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando have dedicated transport systems and plenty of shuttle options, while WonderWorks sits right on International Drive with easy access via bus or trolley. Gatorland is a short drive from the airport and reachable by car or taxi.

💡 Tip: If you’re staying in Orlando, using hotel shuttles, buses, or rideshares can save you a lot on transport compared to renting a car.

🔎 Accessibility note: Every park listed here provides designated handicap parking, wheelchair-accessible entrances, and guest services to assist visitors with special needs.

Quick guide: Orlando theme park cheat sheet

CategoriesWalt Disney WorldUniversal OrlandoGatorlandWonderWorks Orlando

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Open on

Open daily, year-round

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Indoor/outdoor

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What’s unique?

Four theme parks + two water parks in one mega resort

Wizarding World of Harry Potter & cutting-edge rides

The “Alligator Capital of the World” with shows & zip lines

An upside-down science museum full of hands-on fun

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Frequently asked questions about Orlando theme parks

Which Orlando theme park is best for families?

​Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando are top picks for families since they have attractions for all age groups, from toddlers to teens. Gatorland and WonderWorks are also great for shorter, more relaxed days out.

How many days should I plan for Orlando theme parks?

If you’re doing Disney World or Universal Studios, at least 2–3 days is ideal to get a good feel of the parks. Smaller parks like Gatorland and WonderWorks can easily be enjoyed in half a day or one full day.

Can I visit more than one park in a day?

It’s possible, especially with Disney’s Park Hopper or Universal’s 2-Park upgrade. That said, most parks are big and it can be tiring, so its best saved for those who want to maximize their time.

Which park is better for toddlers?

If you have your toddler with you, go to Magic Kingdom. It is built with little ones in mind, featuring gentle rides, character meet-and-greets, and colorful parades.

Which park is less crowded, Disney or Universal?

​Disney usually has bigger crowds, especially Magic Kingdom. Universal gets busy too, but it’s often slightly easier to navigate, especially with Express Pass.

Which is better for animal lovers, Animal Kingdom or Gatorland?

Animal Kingdom is more of a safari-style theme park with rides and storytelling built in. Gatorland is focused on reptiles and Florida wildlife and is great for up-close encounters.

Which water park has the most intense rides?

Volcano Bay is the winner here, with thrill slides like Ko’okiri Body Plunge and Krakatau Aqua Coaster. Aquatica has some big slides too, but Disney’s water parks are generally more laidback.

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