The Best Theme Parks to Visit in Orlando in 2024

Orlando, Florida, is known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” offering a variety of unique experiences for visitors of all ages. From the magical world of Disney to the thrilling rides at Universal Studios, and from aquatic adventures at SeaWorld to hands-on fun at LEGOLAND, Orlando has something for everyone. As we step into 2024, several new attractions and updates make this year particularly exciting for theme park enthusiasts. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best theme parks in Orlando that you should include in your travel plans.

1. Walt Disney World Resort

The Walt Disney World Resort remains a crown jewel among Orlando’s theme parks, offering an unmatched combination of fantasy, adventure, and nostalgia. Spread over 25,000 acres, this vast resort is home to four main theme parks, two water parks, over 25 hotels, and countless dining and shopping options.

• Magic Kingdom: Home to the iconic Cinderella Castle, Magic Kingdom is where fairy tales come to life. Must-see attractions include “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Space Mountain,” and the newest addition, “TRON Lightcycle / Run,” a high-speed coaster inspired by the Tron films. Don’t miss the nightly “Happily Ever After” fireworks show, which is a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
• Epcot: Divided into Future World and World Showcase, Epcot offers a unique blend of innovation and culture. In 2024, Epcot is celebrating the completion of its multi-year transformation, featuring new attractions like “Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind,” a reverse-launch roller coaster. The World Showcase allows guests to experience the food, culture, and entertainment of 11 different countries. Festivals, such as the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, also draw huge crowds.
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: This park has become a must-visit destination for fans of film and adventure. “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge” immerses visitors in the world of Star Wars, offering experiences like “Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run” and “Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.” “Toy Story Land” is also a hit, especially with families, featuring rides like “Slinky Dog Dash” and “Alien Swirling Saucers.”
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Combining a theme park with a zoo, Animal Kingdom offers unique experiences such as “Avatar: Flight of Passage,” a state-of-the-art flight simulator in the breathtaking Pandora – The World of Avatar. The park also features “Expedition Everest,” a thrilling coaster, and “Kilimanjaro Safaris,” a live-action safari that takes you through the African savanna.

2. Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort is a top competitor of Disney, and for a good reason. The resort offers two main theme parks, a water park, and a bustling nightlife and dining district called CityWalk. Universal is known for its cutting-edge rides and attractions, especially those inspired by blockbuster films and TV shows.

• Universal Studios Florida: This park brings your favorite movies and TV shows to life. Popular attractions include “Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts,” located in Diagon Alley, where you can also enjoy Butterbeer and purchase a wand at Ollivanders. Other favorites include “The Simpsons Ride,” “Transformers: The Ride-3D,” and the thrilling “Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit” roller coaster.
• Islands of Adventure: Known for its adrenaline-pumping rides, Islands of Adventure features the award-winning “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade,” where you can board the “Hogwarts Express” to Diagon Alley. Don’t miss “Jurassic World VelociCoaster,” a new, high-speed roller coaster that takes you on a thrilling chase through the Raptor paddock. The park also includes Marvel Super Hero Island, with attractions like “The Incredible Hulk Coaster” and “The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.”
• Volcano Bay: Universal’s Volcano Bay is a tropical-themed water park that offers relaxation and thrills in equal measure. Its centerpiece, Krakatau Volcano, features water slides that shoot you through the volcano. The park also offers a lazy river, wave pool, and cabanas for rent.

3. SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando combines marine life experiences with exhilarating rides, making it a unique destination in Orlando. The park has been expanding its ride offerings in recent years to include more thrill-seeker attractions.

• Highlights: Popular rides include “Mako,” Orlando’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, and “Manta,” a flying coaster that mimics the feeling of gliding through the ocean. “Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin” takes visitors on a chilly journey through the world of penguins, while “Infinity Falls” is a river rapids ride that ends with a record-breaking 40-foot drop.
• Animal Experiences: Guests can enjoy close encounters with dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and other marine animals. The park also offers educational shows, such as “Dolphin Adventures” and “Orca Encounter,” which focus on marine conservation and the natural behaviors of these incredible animals.

4. LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Located about 45 minutes from Orlando, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is specifically designed for families with young children. This park offers more than 50 rides, shows, and attractions, making it a great option for a fun-filled family day.

• Highlights: Attractions include “LEGO NINJAGO The Ride,” an interactive 3D ride that lets you battle villains using hand gestures, and “Miniland USA,” where iconic U.S. landmarks are recreated with millions of LEGO bricks. Don’t miss the “LEGO Kingdoms” section, where kids can become knights and princesses.
• Water Park: The LEGOLAND Water Park is perfect for cooling off, featuring a wave pool, lazy river, and interactive water play areas, all with a LEGO twist.

5. Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove offers a more relaxed and intimate experience, ideal for those who want a break from the high-energy theme parks. It’s an all-inclusive day resort where guests can swim with dolphins, snorkel among tropical fish, and relax on sandy beaches.

• Unique Experiences: Discovery Cove offers the chance to swim with dolphins in the Dolphin Lagoon, snorkel with rays and tropical fish in The Grand Reef, and hand-feed exotic birds in the free-flight aviary. Guests can also float down the Wind-Away River, which winds through waterfalls, caves, and lush landscapes.
• All-Inclusive Perks: Admission to Discovery Cove includes unlimited food and drinks, making it a stress-free day where everything is taken care of.

Why Visit Orlando’s Theme Parks in 2024?

Orlando’s theme parks continue to innovate, unveiling new rides, shows, and experiences every year. In 2024, many parks are celebrating anniversaries, launching new attractions, and expanding their offerings, making it an especially exciting year for visitors.

From the timeless magic of Disney to the cutting-edge thrills at Universal and the educational adventures at SeaWorld and Discovery Cove, Orlando offers a theme park for every type of traveler. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for new experiences, there’s always something fresh and exciting to explore in Orlando. Make sure to plan your trip carefully, consider multi-day passes, and be prepared to create magical memories!