Complete guide to traveling to amusement parks in Orlando, Florida

Orlando has established itself as one of the world's leading tourist destinations for families, couples, and groups of friends. More than just a collection of theme parks, the city functions as an ecosystem designed around entertainment, where advance planning is essential to making the most of the experience without feeling overwhelmed.

With daily flights via cities like Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, and Houston, and travel times ranging from 12 to 16 hours, the destination maintains strong international demand. According to data from COCHA Travel Insights, family trips to theme parks grew by 18% in the last year, with an average booking lead time of six to eight months, especially for peak seasons.

At the heart of the destination are two large complexes that offer complementary options: Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort.

Walt Disney World: Four Parks, Four Rhythms

The Disney complex comprises four main theme parks. Magic Kingdom is the most iconic and a favorite among families with young children, offering experiences focused on shared excitement rather than speed. EPCOT combines technology, culture, and gastronomy, making it a better fit for groups with older children, couples, or curious travelers. Disney's Hollywood Studios, with its strong cinematic inspiration, boasts some of the most popular attractions, while Disney's Animal Kingdom blends real nature with advanced technology, offering a more relaxed experience.

Universal Orlando Resort: Intensity and Immersion

Universal is committed to a more intense experience focused on film and pop culture. Universal Studios Florida features simulators and immersive themed areas; Islands of Adventure boasts the most challenging roller coasters; and the recent expansion, Epic Universe, incorporates entire worlds based on contemporary franchises, positioning itself as one of the destination's most significant new attractions. In addition, there's Volcano Bay, the water park, designed for an active day out.

How to combine the parks

The type of trip influences the planning. Families with young children often balance days at Magic Kingdom with lighter days at Universal Studios. For mixed-age groups, alternating between Disney and Islands of Adventure allows for a combination of gentler rides and more adrenaline-pumping experiences. For teenagers and young adults, Epic Universe and Islands of Adventure offer the most technologically advanced experiences, while couples find a combination of entertainment and dining at EPCOT and Universal.

Universal's Park-to-Park pass also allows you to travel between parks using the Hogwarts Express, an attraction that functions as both transportation and a themed experience.

How many days are needed

To enjoy without getting exhausted, the recommendation is a total stay of between seven and ten days: four days for Disney parks, two or three for Universal —including Epic Universe— and at least one or two days dedicated to rest, shopping or other activities outside the resorts.

When to travel

The dates directly influence the experience and the budget. January, July, and school holiday periods see the highest demand and prices. In contrast, April, May, September, and October have lower visitor numbers and prices up to 25% lower, as well as shorter wait times at attractions.

Indicative budget

A family trip for two adults and two children, including international flights, seven nights' accommodation, and tickets to Walt Disney World, can cost between USD 5,500 and USD 7,500, depending on the season and hotel category. For Universal Orlando, a three-day park package typically ranges from USD 2,500 to USD 3,500.

Booking in advance, choosing the right dates, and selecting the type of accommodation are all key factors in the final cost. Planning ahead not only helps you budget but also allows you to organize your time in the parks and make your trip a balanced and enjoyable experience.