The Sunshine State is the perfect place to visit with your family. Orlando is known for fun and excitement with dozens of attractions, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, this is the perfect family vacation destination. For anyone who is headed to Orlando with your whole family for the first time or if you’re headed back, these are some options to keep in mind to make sure you have an incredible vacation.
Hotels Near Universal Studios Orlando
The Hyatt Place Orlando/Universal is a Universal Partner Hotel and is located just one mile from Universal Orlando Resort and Universal CityWalk. Experience the thrills of the theme parks by day and enjoy all the comforts of home at night. Stay in one of the many great rooms at the hotel, each one equipped with a microwave and a refrigerator. Most suites also offer a fully equipped kitchen and a separate living room area. The hotel also features a heated pool, 24-hour gym, complimentary Wi-Fi and free breakfast.
If you are thinking of staying at the theme parks, there are plenty of budget-friendly hotel packages at places like Disney Coronado Springs Resort or Cabana Bay Beach Resort Universal.
Never Waste a Sunny Day
Getting up early is important if you want to avoid the crowds and get in line for all the rides. Most of the theme parks open at 9:00 AM and stay open till 9:00 PM. Most theme parks offer an Express Pass or Fast Pass where you can choose a certain number of rides or character meetings where you can skip the long line and head to the front. Orlando offers everything from rollercoaster rides at theme parks to interactive museums. There is something for everyone in Orlando from the little kids to the big kids.
Universal CityWalk: Also known as the “Epicenter of Awesome” and is home to a wide array of themed restaurants, concert venues, movies, stores, and miniature golf. While here you can check out the world-renowned Blue Man Group or enjoy a one of a kind meal at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen that is adorned with smokestacks and steampunk inspired gizmos. There is something for every member of the family at Universal CityWalk.
Universal Studios Florida: The real working film and TV studio has amazing rides, shows, and attractions that put you right in the middle of the action. Older kids will love The Wizarding World of Harry Potter where they can walk down Diagon Alley or ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Smaller children can take a ride on Woody Woodpeckers Nuthouse Coaster. There is fun for the whole family at Universal Studios Florida.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure: Take a journey with the family in a place where superheroes, beasts and magical creatures are everywhere. Ride on attractions where you will take an adventure through stories, myths, or legends that will excite every one of every age! The scenic river cruise on Jurassic Park River Adventure starts out innocently then suddenly you’re bumped off course and end up in the “restricted area” of Jurassic Park as you try to find your way out and away from such dinosaurs like a T Rex! Or hold on tight as you brave your way through roaring rapids and past an 18-foot octopus on Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges.
Universal’s Volcano Bay: Live the carefree island life at this water theme park. Relax as you slowly flow down the Kopiko Wai Winding River and enjoy the tropical landscape. Race your family on Manta Ray mats on Punga Racers as you slide down one of the four lanes through underwater caves. If you are the first racer to cross the finish line, you will receive a celebratory spray of water.
Family Friendly Restaurants Ahead of Time
While you have the option to eat at one of the theme parks, the city of Orlando offers a variety of other restaurants to choose from.
Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom: Celebrate the cultural icon and music legend Bob Marley, also known as the “King of Reggae”, at this restaurant that is a replica of his home in Jamaica. Artifacts, photos and video clips about the music legends life adorn the restaurant as you sit in the open-air veranda and courtyard. As you listen to reggae music you will enjoy the Jamaican-themed menu with items like jerk wings, curry chicken and yucca fries.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant & Market: This spirited rustic eatery with Southern charm offers down-home dishes that will be a hit with the whole family. The eatery specializes in shrimp and seafood dishes like their Shrimp Po’ Boy, as well as their award-winning baby back ribs and the Captain’s Fish and Chips. While here you can also test your knowledge of the Forrest Gump movie and browse movie-inspired merchandise.
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar: The burger joint offers you the best of both worlds where surf meets turf. Enjoy a custom-designed burger or sushi at this unique eatery. Or embrace both together and order the Burgushi, a cutting-edge fusion of sandwiches made with sushi and burger. Or keep it simple and build your own burger or get a bento box that has a little bit of everything.
Orlando is the perfect vacation destination that offers fun for the whole family. From thrilling theme parks to eating at fun restaurants, this Florida city offers something for everyone.
