Theme Park Guide | all Amusement Parks at a Glance

How to Choose Between the Best Theme Parks in Florida

With dozens of options, choosing the right park can be overwhelming. This comprehensive Florida theme park guide is designed to help you decide. Our big overview table below lists all major parks, but here is a breakdown to help you choose the perfect destination for your trip.

For Families with Young Children

If you are traveling with little ones, nothing beats the magic of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. For official ticket information and current park hours, it’s always best to visit the official Magic Kingdom website. The gentle rides, character meet-and-greets, and enchanting atmosphere are specifically designed for young families.

For Thrill-Seekers and Adrenaline Junkies

If high-speed roller coasters are your priority, Busch Gardens in Tampa is a top choice, combining world-class coasters with an animal safari. In Orlando, Universal’s Islands of Adventure offers heart-pounding attractions like the Jurassic World VelociCoaster. This Florida theme park guide recommends these for true adrenaline fans..

For Movie and Fantasy Fans

Immerse yourself in the worlds of film and magic. Universal Studios Florida lets you step into Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a must-visit for Star Wars fans, with the immersive land of Galaxy’s Edge.

Water Parks and Animal Encounters

Beyond the traditional roller coasters, many of the best theme parks in Florida are dedicated to aquatic fun and animal experiences. For a day of sliding and splashing, Aquatica and Typhoon Lagoon in Orlando are top-tier water parks with attractions for all ages. If you’re looking for a unique animal encounter, Discovery Cove offers an all-inclusive experience where you can snorkel with rays and swim with dolphins. Similarly, Busch Gardens in Tampa brilliantly combines a world-class zoo with thrilling rides, making it one of the most diverse theme parks in Florida.

Tips for Saving Money on Tickets

A trip to the theme parks in Florida can be expensive, but there are several ways to save money on admission.

• Buy Tickets Online in Advance: Never wait to buy your tickets at the park gate. Prices are almost always higher there. Purchasing online, even just a day before, can lead to significant savings.
• Consider Multi-Day Passes: If you plan to visit the same park (like Disney or Universal) for more than one day, a multi-day pass offers a much lower price per day compared to single-day tickets.
• Look for Official Deals: Check the official park websites for special offers, especially during the off-season (typically September, and January to early February). They sometimes offer deals like “Buy 2 Days, Get 2 Days Free.”
• Beware of Unofficial Sellers: Be extremely cautious of third-party sellers offering heavily discounted tickets on sites like Craigslist or eBay. These are often scams. Stick to the official park websites or authorized third-party sellers like Undercover Tourist.