If you are looking for roller coaster theme parks in Florida, head over to Orlando for family fun and thrilling rides. The city is theme park central, situated in the heart of Central Florida, and is home to some of the best theme parks in the world. Whether you’re coming from the bustling city of Miami, the vibrant coastal city of Jacksonville, or the cultural hub of Tampa, Orlando is easily accessible.
From Miami, you can expect a drive of about three and a half to four hours along the scenic Florida Turnpike and I-95. If you’re traveling from Jacksonville, it’s roughly a two-hour drive down I-95 and I-4.
For those coming from Tampa, Orlando is just about an hour and a half away via I-4, making it a convenient destination for a day trip or an extended Staycation. No matter where you’re starting from, the journey to Orlando’s theme parks is straightforward and well worth the trip!
Let’s take a look at these Florida theme parks that you must visit on your next trip:
Disney World
Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL first opened its doors to the public in 1971. Since then, the Florida theme park has been the hottest spot for Mickey Mouse fans. If you or your children would love to meet their favorite Disney characters and witness an over-the-top fireworks display, Magic Kingdom is the place to be!
There are a variety of rides at this theme park for adults and children alike. When visiting, do not miss the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Peter Pans’ Flight, Space Mountain, and Splash Mountain. You can also witness jaw-dropping exhibits at the Magic Kingdom modeled after Disney classics, such as dining areas inspired by the castle from Beauty and the Beast.
Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom, located in Orlando, is a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Miami, almost a four-hour drive from Tallahassee, and a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Jacksonville. Tuesday is typically the best day of the week to visit the Magic Kingdom. It’s just the day when the last week’s weekend crowds are gone. Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, Home2Suites by Hilton, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott are some of the best hotels to stay in the Walt Disney World area.
LEGOLAND
If you think your family’s not ready to tour a giant theme park like Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom, LEGOLAND is the place for you. If you have LEGO enthusiasts in your family, surprise them with a trip to LEGOLAND – one of the best theme parks in Florida.
At LEGOLAND, children can drive their own LEGO cars and boats. You will find dragon and dinosaur-themed roller coasters at the theme park. There is also a super interactive Ninjago ride. Miniland USA, an exhibit that features highly detailed LEGO re-creations of New York City, San Francisco, and other famous places in the U.S., is also a must-see!
LEGOLAND is located in Winter Haven, about an hour’s drive from the Orlando area. It is a highly kid-friendly theme park, but it might not amuse older kids and adults. LEGOLAND Hotel Florida, Courtyard by Marriott, and Hampton Inn are some of the best places to stay near LEGOLAND.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios is a theme park located inside Universal Orlando Resort. It is a highly happening place for fans of the Universal film franchise. One of the best things to do in Florida is visit Universal Studios!
Universal Studios features original rides like E.T. Adventure. The theme park’s newest attraction, Fast and Furious–Supercharged, immerses visitors in the world of high-speed films. Here, you can also find rides based on Men in Black, The Mummy, and Transformers. The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit coaster, which sends riders on a 90-degree climb toward the sky set to the soundtrack of their choice, is one of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios.
Universal Studios is located at a 16-minute drive from Downtown Orlando. Holiday Inn and Suites, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, and Crowne Plaza Orlando are some of the best hotels to stay around Universal Studios.
SeaWorld
SeaWorld Orlando is the perfect fit to be if you wish to have up-close animal encounters and experience pulse-pounding rides.
SeaWorld is home to the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster in Orlando and a river raft ride with the world’s tallest drop. In addition to plenty of thrill rides, the park hosts shows to educate guests about dolphins, orcas, and other aquatic animals. SeaWorld Orlando also has a waterpark, Aquatica, which features exhilarating rides with plenty of dips and drops. The Dolphin Plunge, which takes riders through clear tubes that travel underwater in the parks’ dolphin habitat, is a must-ride!
SeaWorld is located at a 20-minute drive from Downtown Orlando. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, and Hampton Inn and Suites are the most popular hotels in the area.
Final Thoughts
Florida theme parks are year-round attractions, thanks to it’s famous sunny weather. Whether you’re heading to the Sunshine State for the summer or planning on visiting during the holiday season, you’re guaranteed to have fun visiting these theme parks! For more information about things to do in Florida, places to stay, and top attractions, visit the Florida Beaches website.
