Orlando family holidays are always magical, but now they’re even easier to enjoy thanks to more direct UK flights than ever connecting you to the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World’.
Orlando family holidays are packed with waterpark fun
Discover the ultimate holiday destination with new UK flights
Orlando remains the ultimate family holiday destination for UK families, its enduring popularity testament to the sheer number of incredible attractions and great places to stay. Not to mention the sunny weather which makes it a truly year-round destination with universal appeal.
Plus, if you’re looking to tick off bucket list items, you can’t go wrong on Orlando family holidays; from toddlers to teens, parents to grandparents, this vibrant destination provides unforgettable experiences for literally everyone.
Also, getting there couldn’t be easier, with many airlines – including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Norse and Aer Lingus – now offering direct services to Orlando from London, Manchester and Edinburgh.
Family fun in the theme park capital of the world
Young or young at heart? Everyone loves Orlando
Orlando’s theme parks and world-class attractions make it a perfect family destination with something for everyone to enjoy. You just might find your inner child gets unleashed during your stay, although it’s also perfect for multi-gen holidays, so think about bringing the grandparents along too.
Younger kids are bound to love the ever-growing Walt Disney World Resort; Toy Story Land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a particular favourite, offering cool age-appropriate attractions like Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers. Another big hit with children is the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, part of Magic Kingdom Park, which treats riders to a sassy musical journey based on the popular Disney film.
Penguin Trek, SeaWorld, Orlando
Universal Epic Universe is new for Orlando holidays this year
But Orlando family holidays go far beyond Disney. DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida is inspired by those slightly edgier characters like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and Trolls, and features interactive play areas, character meet ‘n’ greets and live entertainment.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Penguin Trek rollercoaster takes families on an expedition through the Antarctic wilderness with a grand finale arrival at the park’s penguin habitat. This one is a perfect family experience, somewhere in between the ‘mild and wild’ range, and suitable for kids from just 107cm.
Teens have plenty of reasons to love Orlando too, not least for its legendary rides. If you like your thrills high octane, you’ll love the high-speed Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, or the exhilarating TRON Lightcycle at Magic Kingdom Park: a futuristic coaster that whisks riders across a digital landscape at lightning speeds, not for the faint-hearted.
Although the biggest thrill for 2025 has to be brand-new Universal Epic Universe. Themed around the heavens, stars and constellations, it opens on 22 May at Universal Orlando Resort, and is definitely the one to get tickets for as soon as you can.
Boggy Creek Airboat Rides, Orlando family holidays
Orlando couldn’t be more up for outdoor adventures
Theme parks aside, Orlando is also the place for amazing outdoor adventures; with the Everglades headwaters and incredible wildlife on its doorstep, as well as a stunning coastline within easy driving distance.
Active kids who love to jump around will like Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park where you’ll find ziplining and obstacle courses through the treetops, just a few minutes from Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Meanwhile, Boggy Creek Airboat Rides and Wild Florida add iconic airboat rides to Orlando family holidays, for up-close views into the beauty of the Everglades’ headwaters, and glimpses of wildlife, like bald eagles and alligators.
Discovery Cove all-inclusive day resort puts a focus on conservation, so families can snorkel with tropical fish, feed rays, mingle with flamingos and even swim with dolphins in a peaceful and inclusive environment.
Boxi Park, Lake Nona
Eating out is more fun on Orlando family holidays
Interactive dining is another experience you don’t want to miss on Orlando family holidays.
Swing by Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort where buffet guests include Mickey Mouse and friends. Or head to the Rainforest Café in Disney Springs, to be transported to a tropical jungle filled with animatronic animals and cascading waterfalls.
Nauti Lobstah seafood restaurant in Apopka might be only 12 minutes’ drive from downtown Orlando but it brings New England to Florida in family-friendly style, with the biggest lobster rolls in the state, alongside kids’ menus and bibs for all.
Another Orlando legend, Pirates Dinner Adventure, features a swashbuckling show while you eat, with acrobats, entertainers and cutthroats battling for control of an 18th-century pirate galleon.
Then, by complete contrast, relaxed Boxi Park in Lake Nona serves up food trucks, a playground and live entertainment.
Evermore Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s family-friendly resorts let you relax and unwind
No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find accommodation that’s perfect for all types of Orlando family holidays, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to themed resorts and villa rentals.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a popular choice for families with younger kids. It’s themed around beloved Disney movies like The Lion King and Finding Nemo, immerses guests in the magic of Disney, and also features spacious family suites.
Universal’s Loews Sapphire Falls Resort offers a Caribbean-inspired experience with a lagoon-style pool, waterslides, and the fun of direct water taxi trips to Universal Studios Florida.
Or try newly opened Evermore Orlando Resort: Orlando’s first beach-like property. Featuring an 8-acre Crystal Lagoon and a 20-acre sandy beach, Evermore has been thoughtfully built for both large groups and families, making it unique among Orlando resort.
Lake Eola, Orlando City
How to plan Orlando family holidays with Visit Orlando
Sometimes we all need a little help in crafting a dream holiday, and Visit Orlando’s free Vacation Planning Services mean it couldn’t be easier to start putting together your perfect itinerary.
Plus, speaking to the friendly, knowledgeable team is also a great way to find out what will work for the ages and stages of your kids, the best areas to stay in and what’s new for Orlando family holidays this year.
But before you do anything else head to Visit Orlando and have a look around
