7 Must do’s in Orlando ~ Theme Park City

Orlando is famous for its theme parks. You have Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld, etc. Here are my must do’s in Orlando.

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1) Disney World Orlando

Disney World Orlando has 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and a golf course.

2) Universal Orlando

Universal has 2 theme parks, 1 water park, and 6 hotels. We only went to the two theme parks and the Universal Citywalk Orlando. We did the 2 parks in 2 days and it was doable. The Universal Citywalk can be done in the evening while leaving for your hotel.

3) Seaworld Orlando

So this is actually a must not. Seaworld is famous for its dolphins and whale shows. At the time, Tilikum was in Seaworld (notorious for killing his trainer and 2 other people presumably). We didn’t go to Seaworld, nor should you. Those mammals belong in the great wide ocean, not in a small tank. Go see the documentary Black Fish and you will understand. Go see them in the wild. Dolphins can be seen in the wild in Key West, so why see them in a tank?

Fun fact: You can see wild dolphins near Key West and Vancouver. So why would you want to see them in a tank?

Sad Fact: You can see wild dolphins near Lovina, Bali in Indonesia. But it’s more like hunting them to see the tiniest bit of fin instead of enjoying them from a distance.

4) Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral

Kennedy Space Center is not that far from Orlando. Take your rocket and fly over to my post about Kennedy Space Center!

5) Visit the Gulf Coast: beautiful nature & wildlife

Visit the Gulf Coast and enjoy the nature of Cedar Key and the Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park all day! Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge is a group of small islands that can be explored via scenic hiking trails and are home to a wealth of wildlife. From Cedar Key you can also take a boat trip to Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park. This state park is home to many saltwater fish, alligators, manatees, black bears, and bald eagles. 

6) Crystal River: spot manatees & other marine mammals

Wanna see manatees? Go to Crystal River and its National Wildlife Refuge.

The nearby Archaeological State Park is home to the remains of an early Native American settlement, including the ceremonial mound complex, which dates back some 2,500 years.

7) Hiking in the Ocala National Forest

Take a day trip from Orlando to Ocala National Forest. This is the southernmost forest reserve in the United States with the world’s largest pine forest. Swim in natural pools, canoe around the lake, or hike the panoramic road.

Click here to see my 2 week Florida Itinerary!

Life of a Passion