Orlando, Florida is a treasure trove of family fun. There are fun theme parks and fun activities of course. But there is also a delicious restaurant scene in Orlando. I am going to take you through the 7 Must-Do Orlando Activities for Families.

*DisclosureThis post is sponsored by Universal Orlando Resort, The Escape Game, Sugar Factory, ICON Park, and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers but the content and opinions expressed here are my own. I have been compensated with complimentary admission and/or dining for my time and to supply an honest review.*

7 Must-Do Orlando Activities for Families

1. Disney World

One can not go to Orlando and skip out on Disney World. It’s like a tradition if you vacation there. Disney World is fun for all ages from babies to adults with no kids as well. We have not been there since my kids were 8 and it is a completely different experience with teens. They are way more ride-focused now and have no interest in Disney characters.

So we went on as many rides as we could, we ate our way around the countries of the World Showcase in Epcot, and we had an absolute blast. Disney is not for the faint at heart though. I always say that it is like “boot camp for parents.” It’s hot and lines are long and you walk for miles, oftentimes pushing a stroller. It can be downright exhausting. So take your time and don’t push yourself too hard. You may not get to see everything you hoped to see on this trip. But it just gives you a good excuse to plan another trip! 🙂

Check out my blog post on Disneyland HERE. Even though it is the California location it has some good tips that are useful for Disney World in Florida as well.

2. Universal Orlando Resort

With attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Minion Mania, Universal Orlando Resort has something to offer the entire family. Both parks have their own unique attractions, but I would say that Universal’s Islands of Adventure has more thrill rides while Universal Studios Florida has more sit-down movie-themed types of rides. If you are a huge Harry Potter fan, both parks do have Harry Potter rides and attractions.

In my opinion, Universal Orlando Resort is geared more towards pre-teens and up. Don’t get me wrong, there are rides and attractions for the younger kids. But there was not enough for me to go there when my kids were little. For my teens, this is their favorite theme park in Orlando Florida. My son could go on one roller coaster after another. And my daughter is a HUGE Harry Potter fan.

If you are an overachiever then check out my blog post HERE on How to Conquer Universal Orlando in 2 Days. It’s difficult but doable if you are short on time.

One thing I will say is don’t skip out without checking out the amazing restaurants at Universal CityWalk. They have some delicious places to eat and snack there.

3. Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

Our favorite restaurant at Universal CityWalk is Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. It’s a 19th-century themed restaurant with a focus on chocolate. Say what?? You had me at chocolate! Everything is so delicious that it’s hard for me to choose what to recommend. But, make sure you try the Potato Croquette, the Southern Fried Chicken BLT, Chicken “Caprese” Sandwich, and one (or many) of their amazing milkshakes. Yum!

4. The Escape Game

The Escape Game is the perfect non-theme park activity for families. Sometimes you just need a break from the heat and the lines at the theme parks. In comes, The Escape Game. It’s super fun and the perfect activity for families with older kids.

The Escape Game is a short 20-minute drive from the theme park area. They have 23 locations across the country and offer 7 different games at the Orlando location with all different levels of difficulty. We played the Depths and escaped our undersea adventure with under 3 minutes left on the clock. Phew! That was close…

5. ICON Park

ICON Park is an entertainment destination with fun and games for everyone in the family. Ride The Wheel, take a picture with your favorite celebrity at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, check out some sea creatures at the Sea Life Aquarium, and more.

We particularly loved the Museum of Illusions. It’s crazy how easy it is to trick the eye. Be sure to purchase the Play Pass which can save you a significant amount of money on the attractions.

Along with fun and games, there are infinite dining options at ICON park. I’m sure that whatever you are craving you can find here.

6. Sugar Factory

We chose to eat dinner at Sugar Factory when we visited ICON park. I am telling you, this place is a must for a fun dining experience. The food is delicious. And their signature drinks are served smoking. Literally, they smoke! Need I say more? Oh, maybe I do need to say one more thing. The milkshakes are incredible too.

7. Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers

Last but certainly not least is Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. They have the most delicious steakburgers and frozen custard in town. The burgers are thin but juicy and just the way I like them. Make sure you try their creamy and dreamy frozen custard too.

There you have it. 7 Must-Do Orlando Activities for Families. Make sure you do one or all of them on your next Orlando vacation.

Here are some other posts you might like:

  1. 10 Mom-Approved Tips for Fun Family Vacations
  2. 5 Days in San Diego with Kids
  3. Our Seaworld San Diego Adventure

Happy Travels!!!