Insider Tips for Traveling in Orlando with Children

Orlando, Florida, is the center of fun and theme park adventures. It invites families to create amazing memories. A trip to Disney is on many people’s bucket lists. However, traveling in Orlando with kids takes some planning. 

No need to worry, though, because some tips can help. With this insider knowledge, your Orlando family vacation will be truly special. Let’s explore our guide to make your trip easy and fun for all.

Getting to Know Orlando

Family navigating airport terminal

Orlando is a busy city with many things to do. The main attraction of traveling in Orlando is its theme parks. The distance between attractions can be confusing. So, it’s important to know your transportation options.

If you travel with kids, knowing where to go is very helpful. Get to know the park maps. You might also want to use transportation apps like Uber to make traveling easy between your hotel and the parks. Remember to include transportation time when you plan your daily activities.

Navigating Orlando’s Airports and Transport Options

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a busy place. Be prepared for the crowd, and more so during the travel season. Make sure you prepare your transport before to reach the hotel from the airport.

You can rent a car, but using ride-sharing services is budget-friendly like Uber and Lyft. Another good thing is that Walt Disney World and Universal Studios offer shuttle services from airports to hotels. You can avail that as well. 

Safety Tips for Families Traveling in Orlando

Keeping your family safe is very important. Big theme parks like Disney World can make it easy for anyone to get lost.

Decide a spot where you can all go if you get separated. Moreover, write your phone number and keep it with the kids. In case you lose them someone will be able to contact you.

Stay hydrated when you are traveling. Carry water bottles and use the fountains in the parks. Use sunscreen and carry hats to protect yourself from the direct heat. 

A Beginner’s Guide to Orlando’s Theme Parks

When you are traveling in Orlando, you cannot miss the theme parks. There are so many, that picking the best ones seems challenging. So, what are your plans? Do you want to visit the Universal Studies and explore the magic Walt Disney created?

Each park has its specialties, special rides, and activities. These parks have something for all age groups and all tastes. So, pick one depending on what your family prefers and activities that would match your trip. 

Choosing the Right Theme Parks for Your Family

Discuss with your family and pick a theme park that everyone thinks would suit your travel plans. More so if you have kids traveling with you. If your family is a huge fan of Disney Characters, fairytales, and princesses, then visit the Magic Kingdom.

For the adventurous souls, Potterheads, Universal Studios would be a good fit. They have some amazing rides and you can also get to visit Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.

Moreover, checking the park maps, the age limit for the rides, and timings for the online shows can help you have an amazing time at the park, aligning with the interests of your family.

Step 1: Research and Prioritize Theme Parks

Before you buy tickets, take some time to look online. Get to know what each park offers. For example, Universal Orlando has two parks: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Islands of Adventure is home to the amazing Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Look at the park maps. Find attractions that fit your family’s interests and ages. Check the show times and think about the flow of each park.

By deciding on your must-do experiences early, you can plan your day better. This will help you manage your expectations and organize your itinerary.

Step 2: Booking Tickets and Fast Passes Ahead of Time

Waiting in long lines can test the patience of children and adults. Luckily, both Disney and Universal have Fast Pass systems. These let you book ride times in advance. This helps you reduce wait times.

Make sure to get these passes online as early as you can. Slots fill up fast, especially during busy seasons. Plan your day around your reserved ride times. Keep some time open for exploring and eating.

Also, download the official park apps on your phone. These apps let you check wait times in real-time. With the help of the apps, you can make smart decisions. You can make reservations through the apps in your favorite Disney restaurants.

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Orlando

Traveling in Orlando

It is important to pick the right spot for staying on the trip. Think of your convenience and the location. Amenities also matter, and obviously, everything has to fit in your budget. Moreover, think of the needs of your family.

In Orlando, you will get many choices. Starting with resorts, inexpensive hotels, and spacious vacation rentals.

Deciding Between Hotels and Vacation Rentals

A hotel room offers daily cleaning and nice facilities. It’s convenient for visitors. Vacation rentals usually come with full kitchens and several bedrooms. This makes them better for bigger families since they have more space and flexibility.

Think about your needs. If you want to stay close to the parks, so you have access to transportation, you will find different resorts for that as well. There are different resorts you will find with kid-friendly activities that are close to the parks.

However, if you want a spacious place where you will be able to cook for your family, then choose a vacation rental.

Top Picks for Kid-Friendly Stays

Orlando has various family-friendly hotels and resorts. Some of the best budget-friendly options that you will find. To start with, look for options online read the reviews given by other families, and find the best pick for your family. 

Regardless of the choice thing of a hotel that will have a mini-fridge to store your snacks and drinks. Because those are something you will need to keep your kind same after a long day.

Dining Out with Kids in Orlando

Traveling in Orlando

If you have a few picky eaters in your family, then finding a restaurant might be challenging. The good news is that Orlando has a lot of family restaurants with different cuisines. They have some amazing kid-friendly menus and a fun vibe as well.

You can enjoy meals with character dining in theme parks. There are some casual restaurants with outdoor seating arrangements and fun things to do. All you need is some good research and you will have a lot of dining options.

Discovering Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Theme parks have many dining options for kids. However, exploring outside the parks gives you even more choices. Check out restaurants that have kids’ menus with things like pizza, pasta, or chicken fingers.

Look for places that have outdoor seating. It allows kids to move around while you wait for your meal. Also, think about food kiosks and food trucks. They usually have quick snacks and treats that kids enjoy.

Don’t forget to read online reviews. They can give you helpful tips from other families about the menu, service, and atmosphere.

A Must-Visit: Kavas Tacos & Tequila for Families

Craving food that’s more than just theme park snacks? Kavas Tacos & Tequila is near Epcot and SeaWorld. It has a lively and friendly vibe that’s perfect for families.

You can choose from a variety of dishes like tacos, quesadillas, and kid-approved meals. The large outdoor patio is great. It has enough room for strollers and lets kids play freely.

Make sure to try their non-alcoholic drinks and delicious desserts. They make a great finish to your family meal.

Beyond the Theme Parks

Orlando has more to offer than just theme parks. It has many fun places to visit beyond roller coasters and meeting characters.

You can find natural springs that are great for a cool swim. There are also interactive museums to pique your interest. Taking one or two days to enjoy these activities can make your family vacation special and well-rounded.

Exploring Orlando’s Natural Attractions

Traveling in Orlando is not just about the theme parks. Enjoy the natural beauty of the place at Wekiwa Springs State Park. You can have a picnic, go kayaking, or just have a relaxing swim in the clear springs.

If you like a little bit of adventure you can try the Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures. You will get a close look at the wildlife of Florida and glide through the marshes. Pack a lunch, and you can have an entire day of fun and relaxation at the same time.

Educational and Fun Activities for Kids

Orlando has various places that combine entertainment with learning. At the Orlando Science Center, kids can participate in experiments, take a look at the exhibits, and watch shoes at the planetarium.

If you are interested in Marine life, then SEA LIFE Orlando has some amazing dolphin, penguin, and sea lion shows. The Crayola Experience allows children to explore their creative side with interactive exhibits and colorful crafts. 

These activities allow you the much-needed break from the bust theme park tours and kids also develop a love for learning.

Conclusion

Traveling in Orlando gives you a fulfilling feeling. There are various family-friendly theme parks. Traveling through the city, visiting the best theme parks, and staying in the best places makes the trip better.

You can enjoy some places that are kid-friendly and check out the beautiful viewpoints. However, keeping safety in mind is of utmost importance. So, do your research properly, and book everything in advance to ensure that everything goes around smoothly.

Enjoy magical Orlando with your family and bring back some amazing memories. Plan the trip now, and enjoy an amazing vacation.

Also read

Share on Social Media

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Travel Books

10 Travel Books You Should Be Read in 2024

BY  Sharmita Feb 6, 2019

When Pausanias, an ancient Greek traveler, penned his experiences, he became the first travel writer. Names like Paulo Coelho, Elizabeth Gilbert, and many others continued his legacy. Thanks to these writers, today, there are many options when it comes to travel books you should read in 2024.   The best way of learning about food and the people and all aspects of contemporary cultures is by reading about them. Further, reading travel books on specific destinations helps you to prepare right for the upcoming trip. Trust me! It is as important as tracking down any place on the map.   In addition, the pages of travel books will change the way you see the world. You will fall in love with the places and people you have not seen yet.   10 Travel Books You Should Be Read in 2024: Are you ready to experience a serious dose of wanderlust? Grab these travel books and travel to different parts of the world.   1. On The Road by Jack Kerouac: This book remains the best in the niche of travel books. It is classic; you may choose to read it in an English class. Even if you have read it, it is recommended that you read it once again. This book is timeless as the story follows Sal, the main character while leaving New York heading west. He rides the rail along the way, meets acquaintances and friends, and parties through the nights. The theme of the novel is the frustrations of Sal and his desires to see all things around the world. These themes resonate with many people around the world and readers of the book. 2. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: This book is a timeless classic and an international bestseller. It was written in 1988 by Paulo Coelho and follows Santiago's life, who was an Andalusian shepherd boy. He longs to travel around the world for treasures. He moves from Spain to Egypt following his dream. He learns a lot of lessons along the way. He discovers love and understands the meaning of being alive. He finds some bits about himself along the way, which is something avid travelers relate to. If you read "The Alchemist", you will have to peruse its best quotes for purposes of inspiration. 3. Vagabonding by Rolf Potts: This book is much of the stories of a man than a novel. Rolf Potts spent ten years on the road. He walked to Israel. In his write-up, he provides tricks, insights, lessons, and tips he learned over the decade. If you are after becoming a long-term traveler, it is easily among the best travel books you can read. He shares all things from valuable lessons learned to funny stories. He also includes inspiration quotes plus practical info that can help all travelers. If you want to live on the road, you must read Vagabonding. 4. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert: The truth of the matter is that you have read this book even if you have never read it. Or you have watched a movie adaptation with Julia Roberts. This story os great to begin with if you are looking at reading many travel books. One woman is seeking everything across Indonesia, Italy, and India. It follows the trip of the author Elizabeth Gilberts around the world after her divorce. She delves in the learned lessons along the way. She dares to step outside her comfort zone, and this story will make you desire to do the same. This book is among the best travel books if you are feeling stuck. 5. Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer: It is likely that you have heard about this travel book. This non-fiction book follows adventures of Christopher McCandless. Born in a wealthy family, he decides to leave all things behind and goes to Alaska. He gave out everything in his possession. He burnt all the money in the wallet before fleeing. After arriving in Alaska, He starts searching for a new life in the wilderness. This book touches on ways of being accepted in the society and methods of breaking from the norms the community places on you. This book challenges you to break from existing stereotypes and try something new. 6. Marching Powder by Rusty Young: In case you want great travel books, then this one is the best option for you. It was written by Rusty Young, an Australian journalist on a trip to South America. He learned of Thomas McFadden, the convicted drug trafficker running tours in San Pedro Prison. He became interested and wanted to learn a lot. He went ahead to join Thomas's illegal tours. He manages to stay inside the prison for the next three months after becoming a friend to Thomas. The resulting story shows that anything can happen while traveling. You also learn about the importance of safety while on your adventures. 7. Less by Andrew Sean Greer: Less is a novel written in 2017 by Andrew Sean Greer following his humorous journey of the Arthur Less, the gay novelist. Arthur travels the world on tour to welcome his fiftieth birthday. The career of Arthur as a novelist does not go well; neither is his life in love. The main traveling reason is to avoid his ex-lover wedding. His adventure leads him close to falling in love while in Paris. He almost falls to death in Berlin. This comedy is satirical that you can wish to read over and over again. This book is among the best travel books when you want something light-hearted. You can learn a lot from this book concerning confronting turning points, love, travel, and much more. 8. How to Travel the World On $50 A Day by Matt Kepnes? There is a possibility of traveling the world with fifty dollars a day. Matt Kepnes shows you the way to do so. It is the best book to read about adventures on a budget. For those that prefer minimalist traveling, this book goes into the details of traveling for long on a small budget. You will learn about traveling the world without spending what you do not have. He shares related stories about what he learned along the way. 9. The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner: This book is a humorous memoir. It came into being in the year 2008 by Eric Weiner while recounting his years of traveling around the world searching for a happy place on earth. The destinations he explores include Qatar, Moldova, Iceland, and Bhutan. He investigates how various countries pursue and define happiness. It is among the best travel books when seeking to learn the outs and ins of other cultures. 10. Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts: Shantaram by George David Roberts is a novel showing where Lin, the Australian bank robber is hiding. He passes the time running a clinic in the poorest regions in the city and working for Bombay mafia. If you fantasize India, this is your boo. This novel portrays the reality of life for the people of Bombay. Conclusion Now that you know the best travel books you should read, get ready for the most rewarding traveling experience sitting in the comfort of your home. Do you remember the Pandemic days? These travel books and some good movies were our only means of traveling.   Further, any great travel book, like actual traveling, will present the best and worst sides of civilization and life in front of you. So, pick any of these and see how the world gets unveiled in front of you.  Do you have a secret favorite among the books I have mentioned? Or do you have any other travel books on your Wishlist? Don’t forget to share!   Read Also: Travel Tips to Help You Out In Asia Top Places to Visit in Italy on your next Travel Escapade 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip

READ MORE aruba airlines

This Is What I Felt About Aruba Airlines!

BY  sagnika Aug 19, 2023

Have you ever traveled to Aruba? What do you think about Aruba Airlines, the sole Airline working in the country? I was hoping you could read the article to learn about my experience with the Airline and highlight the benefits and the shortcomings. Mr. Onno J. Swart founded the Flag Carrier. In 2010, charter operations were launched by the Airline by using the seven-seat Piper PA-31 Navajo. Further, in 2012, the Airline acquired exposure leading to an upgrade of its jet aircraft operations. They operated with two Airbus A320 twin-engined with a capacity of 150 seats. They started covering places such as Venezuela, Panama, Santo Domingo, and Curacao; however, the last two destinations were later suspended. Along the journey of Aruba Airlines, you can observe that the carrier started pretty well; however, later, the company faced issues with operations and maintenance. This Is What I Felt About Aruba Airlines! Image Source: aeropuertobaq.com Aruba Airlines is a flag carrier founded in 2006 and acts as the sole Airline in Aruba. When it was first launched, it provided services such as charter and scheduled air transport to almost 13 destinations worldwide. When I boarded one such flight, Bombardier CRJ200, which was leased from Voyageur Airways, I realized that it was spacious and comfortable; hence, there were fewer issues with the seating arrangement. Yet, I have needed help with operations and services. I will be sharing my experience regarding the benefits and the shortcomings of the Airline. I will explain why I feel about Aruba Airlines the way I do and how the future will pan out! Benefits Of Flying In Aruba Airlines Image Source: luchtvaartnieuws.nl According to the official website of the Airline, www.arubaairlines.com, the flights will be suspended from 6 August due to the sanitary measures taken by the Curacao government. There are diverse features that are efficient for their customers. Great Deals There are significant deals and offers when customers book their flights. You can exceed different services such as charter, seasonal, and hub, based on which you can access the flights run by Aruba Airlines. Expert Guidance You get information regarding the flights' countries, cities, and airports from which the flights operate. The fleet size of the Airline includes 2 aircraft, where currently only 1 is functioning for Sunair. Price Match The prices of the tickets are all mentioned on the official websites, and so are the additional fees. On the website, it is very clear that many of the flights are not functioning, including Bombardier CRJ200. Easy Cancellation Due to the self-service options, you can easily cancel the flights based on your convenience and requirements. The services that are informed online are mostly easy to deal with. For one, I didn't face any issues while booking the tickets. Disadvantages Of Flying In Aruba Airlines Image Source: www.planepictures.net Significant complaints against Aruba Airlines regarding their services and customer support have occurred. They do not have well-maintained schedules for the flights leading to serious flight delays. Half of the time, the staff must learn what is happening, which has been quite frustrating for passengers.   No Coordination Between Staff The staff needs to be more coordinated, and they need to inform the passengers regarding delayed flights or canceled flights. Food And Beverages The quality of drinks and food could be better, and apart from that, the prices are not at all affordable. Customer Service Customer service or support could be more efficient. The issues with asking for customer service lead to further problems and confusion for passengers. Reviews About Aruba Airlines Image Source: media.versionfinal.com.ve According to Tripadvisor, Aruba Airlines has been rated as 2.5 out of 5 based on 129 reviews. The Airline has been complimented about cleanliness and boarding, as some reviews are quite positive about how efficient the staff was regarding the boarding experience. People are neutral regarding the value of money when booking Aruba Airlines! I am also on the line regarding the prices of the tickets; sometimes, they were expensive, while at times, they were affordable. The Airline has also not been dedicated enough to its services. My flight was late, and I have found similarities in the experience of many other travelers who should have been notified before the change of time of the flight or their delays. However, based on most of the reviews, the experience of many fliers has been negative, which justifies their dissatisfaction with the Airline. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the services have further deteriorated. One such review by Angela Nijhuizen highlights the terrible customer service and support by Aruba Airlines in her comments. "My flight to Las piedras has been cancelled due to closing of Venezuela airspace. After 4 years of contact, begging, sending mail from 2019 march till march 2023 I decided to give up on them. If this airline is going to fly again. Please NEVER EVER fly with this crap. Bad…" Another negative review that further confirms the dissatisfaction of the travelers is made by Angel Garcia, who traveled in January 2022. "This airline who has sold tickets in cuba for thousands of dollars to either Managua, Nicaragua or Georgetown, Guyana , has suspended all flights from cuba and also has shut down their customer service number to any of those who wants to claim their money back , leaving…" A review that acts as a nail in the coffin for Aruba Airlines is done by STZ01, where the traveler was completely frustrated with the cancellation of their flight. I could relate to this frustration, especially because the same thing happened to both of us. We were informed of the cancellation after we reached the airport. It confirms the need for more professionalism and the communication gap. "My flight was cancelled and I wa snotified when I reached the airport - no previous call/communication. I was promised a refund and six months later am still waiting for this to happen! My advise is to stay away from this airline by all means..." Another review compared the Airline to the plague as the traveler had one of the worst experiences. They also wanted more customer service from the airlines. "Aruba Airlines changed my Curacao to Aruba flight time substantially so I reached out to their Refund Department on February 8th to cancel the flight completely and obtain a full refund. I never heard back from them. I called their Customer Service line twice but was hung up on…" Conclusion After reading this article, you will understand that there have been considerable service and customer support issues. In my flight experience, this was one of the most haphazard experiences that was completely coordinated, and most of it will be blamed on the company. Apart from what I felt, I have also highlighted significant reviews by people who have booked tickets with Aruba Airlines. After you read them, you clearly understand why people are unsatisfied with the airline's services. Comment below about some of the features that must be present in the airline according to you! Read Also: Journey To The Skies: Exploring The Legacy Of Northwest Airlines! Condor Airlines: Is Booking Tickets On Condor Worth It? This Is My Experience With Play Airlines!

READ MORE Travel

5 Reasons To Travel When You Retire

BY  Ankita Jan 9, 2024

In the mosaic of life, retirement marks a significant transition. While some fully embrace leisure and relaxation, others opt for a more dynamic approach—partial retirement. This innovative concept allows individuals to savor retirement benefits while engaging in meaningful activities, including travel. You can find out if partial retirement might be right for you at https://boomerbenefits.com/could-partial-retirement-be-right-for-you/. As you embark on this new chapter of life, whether fully or partially retired-here are five compelling reasons to make travel an integral part of your journey after employment. One of the most profound aspects of travel is its opportunity for cultural enrichment and continuous learning. As you step out of your comfort zone and explore diverse destinations, you encounter new traditions, cuisines, and perspectives. The world becomes your classroom, offering lessons beyond a book's pages. Whether visiting ancient historical sites, immersing yourself in local customs, or trying a dish you've never heard of, every journey becomes a lesson in cultural understanding. Travel during partial retirement allows you to fill your days with experiences that broaden your horizons and contribute to your personal growth. Strengthening Social Connections Retirement often comes with the promise of more leisure time, and what better way to spend it than by cultivating and strengthening social connections? Traveling in your retirement years provides ample opportunities to share experiences with family and friends. Whether a reunion with old friends or a multigenerational trip with family, these shared adventures create lasting memories and deepen your bonds. Additionally, travel introduces the chance to meet new people, fostering social connections with like-minded individuals who share your passion for exploration. Shared experiences and shared stories become the threads weaving the tapestry of your social connections during your partial retirement. Health and Well-being Travel is not just a feast for the soul; it can also positively impact your physical health and overall well-being. Engaging in new activities, exploring different landscapes, and staying active during travels contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Whether hiking through scenic trails, strolling along picturesque beaches, or participating in local activities, travel provides opportunities for exercise that feel like adventures rather than routines. The mental stimulation derived from navigating new environments and embracing novel experiences can also contribute to cognitive well-being. By incorporating travel into your partial retirement, you are nurturing your wanderlust and your body and mind. Rediscovering Passion and Hobbies Retirement is the ideal time to rediscover and indulge in your passions and hobbies. Whether you love art, history, nature, or adventure, there's a destination waiting to reignite your interests. From exploring art galleries in Paris to hiking the trails of Machu Picchu, travel offers many opportunities to immerse yourself in activities that bring you joy. Partial retirement allows you the flexibility to design your itinerary around your interests, ensuring that each trip becomes a personalized adventure tailored to your passions. The world becomes a canvas on which you can paint the vibrant strokes of your hobbies, rekindling the flames of enthusiasm that may have flickered in the busyness of work life. Creating Lasting Memories The essence of travel lies in the memories it creates—moments that linger long after the journey concludes. During your partial retirement, you have the luxury of time to savor and appreciate these moments. From the awe-inspiring beauty of natural wonders to the laughter shared with loved ones in a bustling market, every experience becomes a treasure. Traveling in your retirement years allows you to build a collection of memories that serve as a testament to a life well-lived. These memories enrich your personal narrative and become a source of inspiration for the generations that follow, creating a legacy woven with the threads of your adventures. Read Also: A Backpacker’s Guide: Must-Have Camping Essentials Secrets Of Forest Camping: Tips For An Unforgettable Getaway Sorting Out Christmas Vacation: 11 Best Places To Visit On Christmas This Year!