Orlando with kids
Orlando is built for family travel: theme parks designed for every age, water parks to cool off, and hotels and vacation homes with room for everyone. Here's how to plan a family trip that works for everyone, from toddlers to teens.
Best areas and resorts for families
Lake Buena Vista and the Disney-owned resorts suit families who want everything close and immersive, with free transportation and no need for a car. Kissimmee and ChampionsGate/Davenport vacation homes give bigger families more room and a private pool for less than multiple hotel rooms.
Pacing a multi-day park trip
Don't try to do every park in one trip — pick your priorities and build in at least one lighter or pool day. Arriving at park opening (sometimes called "rope drop") gets you shorter lines on the most popular rides before crowds build up, and an afternoon break back at the hotel helps younger kids (and parents) recharge.
Check each ride's minimum height requirement in advance if you're traveling with younger children, so you can plan around any rides they won't be able to ride yet.
Water parks
Disney's Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, Universal's Volcano Bay and SeaWorld's Aquatica are all excellent for a break from the theme parks, with slides and pools for a range of ages.
Practical tips
Pack strong sun protection, plan around nap and meal times, and request connecting rooms or a family suite when you book. If you need more than one room, booking room-by-room helps you secure the best rate for each.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best area to stay in Orlando with young kids?
Lake Buena Vista for the shortest possible commute to the Disney parks and free Disney transportation, or Kissimmee/ChampionsGate for a vacation home with a private pool and more space to spread out.
How many theme-park days should we plan for with kids?
Build in at least one lighter day or pool day for every two full park days — young children in particular tire out faster than the itinerary might suggest.