9 Family-Friendly Orlando Vacation Tips

When it comes to family vacations, Orlando, Florida is very often the first place people think of. It’s no surprise that families flock to this exciting region full of world-class amusement parks, limitless entertainment options, and year-round sunlight.

But because there’s just so much to see and do here, organizing the perfect trip to Orlando can be a handful. We’ve put together this quick guide with family-friendly insider tips and secrets to help you plan an unforgettable vacation. Read on!

What’s the Right Time to Visit?

While Florida is famous for sunshine and warm weather all year, you may want to avoid the peak tourist seasons if you’re looking to avoid crowds and save money. Spring break, the summer months, and the winter holiday season are the busiest times for travelers visiting Orlando because that’s usually when both kids and parents have some time off.

If you want to escape the peak seasons, consider traveling in the mid-late winter to early spring (January to March), or in the late summer and early fall (September to November). The weather during these shoulder seasons is much more forgiving than in the summer, too. Check your kids’ school and activity calendars to see if you can travel when there are fewer crowds and shorter lines.

What’s Your Budget?

Although visiting Orlando can get expensive, proper planning will help you stay within your budget. Here are some money-saving tips:

• Pack snacks and drinks: Theme park food can be expensive, so pack your own snacks to save money. Remember to bring refillable water bottles!
• Look early and look often for discounts: Look for discounts on tickets, food, and attractions through reputable websites or package deals. The earlier you start, and the more savvy you get with your deal searches, the more you’ll save.
• Take advantage of free entertainment: Many Orlando resorts provide free activities for families such as game rooms,  pools, nature walks, and outdoor movies.

>> Read all of our travel budget guides and resources

Where Should You Stay?

There are so many family-friendly resorts and hotels in Orlando designed with children in mind. Look for places that provide on-site pools, themed rooms, and kids’ clubs. Vacation rentals are an excellent option for large families, and you can find tons of options for big groups in and around Orlando. You can save money and sanity by booking a house with separate bedrooms for adults and kids, multiple showers, and a kitchen to store snacks, meals, and leftovers. If you plan to visit the major theme parks, look for hotels that provide complimentary shuttle service—this will save a lot of money in gas and parking, but remember to check the shuttle schedule and coordinate appropriately!

What’s Your Theme Park Strategy?

The theme parks in Orlando are the centerpiece of any family vacation, and it would be a huge mistake to visit LEGOLAND Florida, Universal Orlando Resort, or Walt Disney World without a plan!

Purchase your tickets in advance to save money and avoid huge waits at the gate. If you’re park-hopping or spending different days at different theme parks, look into each park’s festivities and events, any special hours, and of course, any deals that can help you figure out where to go, and on which days. Make a list of your family’s must-see sites and rides, and just in case, check for size and height restrictions. Download the official park apps to see maps, realtime wait times, dining reservations and order info, and other helpful tips and guides.

Look Beyond Theme Parks

While theme parks might be the reason you’re visiting Orlando, you might want to look at other spots outside of the big ones:

• ICON Park: Famous for the Orlando Eye—a 400-foot-tall Ferris wheel with stunning city views—as well as an aquarium, arcades, slingshot ride, and much more
• Leu Gardens: Enjoy a peaceful vacation from your hectic vacation by strolling around these lovely botanical gardens full of tropical blooms
• Kennedy Space Center: Not in Orlando, but only one hour away—if you time it right, you may even get to meet an astronaut or see a rocket launch!

Pack for the Weather

You’ve got your trip planned out and are almost ready to go! Now it’s time to pack.

Orlando has a subtropical climate, meaning short downpours happen pretty much every day for half the year (but they don’t last long) and it can be oppressively hot and humid from late spring to early fall. Bring light, breathable clothing with simple layers to add or remove as necessary. A rain jacket or poncho is a lifesaver during rainstorms. If you’re wearing sneakers, bring extra socks—you might want to reconsider sandals or flip-flops, which can slide around and chafe easily, and don’t usually give the support and comfort that sneakers have. And don’t forget hats and lots of sunscreen!

Build Downtime into Your Schedule

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of an Orlando vacation, but don’t forget to schedule some downtime! You’re going to be doing a lot of running around, and it’ll get exhausting. If you can, build a little time to decompress—like napping or spending an hour at your hotel’s spa.

And for your kids: bring along some items to keep them occupied if they don’t nap, or if they get antsy waiting in long lines (those can put a strain on even the most patient children!). Coloring books, games, or tablets can keep them entertained—and if you want them to burn off some energy, there are lots of kids’ play areas at theme parks where they can run around and have fun.

Prepare a Meal Plan in Advance

Dining in Orlando is an adventure in its own right, with options ranging from Disney character meals to unique local eateries. To avoid long waits, make dining reservations well in advance, especially for popular restaurants. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, explore the many casual dining spots around International Drive or Lake Buena Vista. For adventurous eaters, the diverse culinary scene offers something for everyone, from Cuban cuisine to seafood feasts.

Record the Memories

Remember to take pictures of your family’s trip to Orlando! Use your phone or bring a good camera to record those fun, funny, sweet moments and the exciting places you’re visiting. The theme parks have professional photographers who can take pictures of your group at iconic spots and meeting your favorite characters, too. And because you don’t want to forget anything during your whirlwind adventure, bring along a little travel notepad to record your favorite memories.

Orlando is a one-of-a-kind tourist destination with so many exciting activities for your family. With good planning, you’ll have a fantastic trip full of fun memories you all will enjoy long after you’ve returned home.

About the Author

Albert “Trey” Duling is the President and Chief Executive Officer of OrlandoVacation.com, a family-run business specializing in affordable travel packages to Orlando, Florida. With over three decades of experience in the travel industry, Trey leads a team of local experts dedicated to providing personalized vacation planning services.

Featured image courtesy of the author.