1. Overview of Central Florida Theme Park Resorts
Here’s what you should know about these central Florida theme park resorts, from rides and events to hotels and dining.
2. Theme Park Comparison
For many families, central Florida is the ultimate vacation destination. The biggest decision to make when visiting? Choosing which one of the region’s many theme parks to visit. Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando sit just miles from one another and serve as the two leaders in themed entertainment. Each resort complex is sprawling and immersive, complete with convenient transportation systems, endless dining options, incredible rides, and many hotels.
For fans of classic Disney films and the latest Marvel blockbusters, Disney World may be the obvious choice. However, those passionate about Harry Potter and his mystical world or serious thrills will want to visit Universal Orlando Resort. Accommodation options can also factor into your decision, with hotels ranging from budget to ultra-luxurious. In addition to attractions and accommodations, annual events and holiday parties may draw guests to a specific park.
3. Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Walt Disney World is home to four theme parks, two water parks, and a shopping, dining, and entertainment district. At the land of Mickey Mouse, guests can enjoy the original park, Magic Kingdom, home to the iconic Cinderella Castle, along with classic attractions, like It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean. Disney’s Hollywood Studios celebrates the golden age of pictures, where some of your favorite movies come to life. It’s also home to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a land dedicated to the film franchise with immersive attractions, dining, and shopping. Epcot celebrates the many diverse cultures of the world and is home to attractions from family film favorites like Frozen and Guardians of the Galaxy. Disney’s Animal Kingdom pairs animal conservation and exploration with family attractions and international bites.
4. Universal Orlando Theme Parks
Universal Orlando Resort houses two theme parks, one water park, and an adjacent dining and entertainment district. Universal Studios Florida was the theme park that started it all. With working sound stages that produce television and film, the park features attractions that invite guests to live out the storylines of their favorite movies. Next door, Islands of Adventure features several mythical lands, including those themed to Harry Potter and Jurassic Park. Volcano Bay water park transports guests to the South Pacific with sandy beaches and rich vegetation alongside its many slides and water features.
5. Walt Disney World Hotels
Disney World offers over two dozen resorts across its expansive 27,000-acre property, catering to various budgets from value hotels to deluxe accommodations. Every resort provides complimentary transportation to all theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. Budget seekers can enjoy value-level accommodations, such as Disney’s three All-Star resorts, which provide a comfortable place to relax after a park day while offering fewer amenities. For a more luxurious experience, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa boasts fine dining and scenic pools just steps from Magic Kingdom.
6. Universal Orlando Hotels
Universal Orlando features eight on-site resorts, ranging from value hotels to luxury properties, with most within walking distance of the parks. Each resort provides transportation to the theme parks and CityWalk, including boats, buses, and walking paths. The three deluxe resorts—Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort—are situated close to the parks, while budget resorts offer spacious pool complexes, restaurants, and on-site coffee shops.
7. Walt Disney World Rides and Attractions
Walt Disney World is home to classic attractions themed to beloved Disney films and newer experiences that immerse guests in Marvel, Star Wars, and other blockbuster franchises. In Animal Kingdom, Pandora – The World of Avatar features one of Disney World’s top attractions, Avatar Flight of Passage. Epcot’s new Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a groundbreaking addition that embraces advanced technology and storytelling. Furthermore, most attractions are designed for the whole family, with an emphasis on narrative rather than adrenaline.
8. Universal Orlando Rides and Attractions
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the crown jewel of Universal Orlando Resort. Spanning two lands in both parks, the world of the beloved character is intricately designed. One of the best rides at Universal Orlando is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, a multi-launch steel coaster that captivates thrill-seekers. Additionally, Universal’s newest attraction, VelociCoaster, is a high-speed roller coaster themed to the Jurassic World films, alongside other thrilling rides like the Mummy: The Ride and the Incredible Hulk Coaster. Children can venture into a whimsical land dedicated to Dr. Seuss or enjoy a ride with the adorable alien on E.T. Adventure. Volcano Bay also has a towering 200-foot volcano featuring an exhilarating slide that drops guests 125 feet.
9. Walt Disney World Restaurants and Bars
There are numerous dining options at Disney World, ranging from quick-service meals to elaborate chef’s tastings. Character dining experiences are a highlight, with Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom offering a magical dining experience inside the castle. Quick-service locations don’t skimp on quality, featuring diverse cuisines throughout the parks, such as Ronto Wraps at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Elevated dining experiences abound, particularly at Disney Springs, where refined palates can indulge in A5 Wagyu from Morimoto Asia or extensive wine selections at Wine Bar George.
10. Universal Orlando Restaurants and Bars
Universal Orlando features a variety of restaurants that cater to all tastes, from quick-service spots to fine dining. Green Eggs and Ham Cafe offers Dr. Seuss-inspired dishes, while Bice provides an authentic Italian dining experience set in picturesque Mediterranean scenery. At The Leaky Cauldron and Three Broomsticks, guests can relish classic British dishes like fish and chips. Universal’s CityWalk, located next to the parks, boasts a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and dining options, including live band karaoke and hurricane cocktails at Pat O’Brien’s.
11. Special Events at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World’s exciting special events, particularly during the holidays, can entice many guests. The family-friendly Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offers unlimited candy and appearances from rare characters. During the holiday season, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party spreads festive cheer with exclusive shows and spectacular fireworks. Epcot is also known for its award-winning food and wine festivals throughout the year, highlighting globally inspired small plates perfect for sharing.
12. Special Events at Universal Orlando
Halloween Horror Nights, now in its 31st year, stands as the premier Halloween event in the country, featuring immersive attractions based on iconic horror films. The holiday season is also festive at Universal, with Grinchmas being a favorite at Islands of Adventure, where the beloved story is retold dynamically. Moreover, Universal Studios Florida has celebrated Mardi Gras for over 25 years, showcasing live music, Cajun cuisine, and parades with authentic floats from New Orleans, all included in standard park admission.
