Orlando is a top vacation destination, not only for its great weather, but also for its many theme parks. In the Orlando area alone, there are four Disney theme parks, two Universal theme parks and two SeaWorld theme parks, plus there are even more major parks nearby, like Busch Gardens in Tampa. There are also many challenging golf courses in Orlando, including Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Golf Club, a few miles from both Universal Studios and SeaWorld, as well as the Grand Cypress North, South and East Courses, about four miles from Sea World.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios is a TV and movie-based park. Characters you might recognize include the Simpsons, Shrek and Barney. This park has something for people of all ages. For those who enjoy the thrill of roller coasters, there is Revenge of the Mummy and Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket.
There is even Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster for younger rollercoaster fans who are at least 36 inches tall. For little kids not tall enough to enjoy thrill rides, there is Fievel's Playground and Caro-Seuss-El.
There are three luxury hotels on property: the Hard Rock Orlando, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort. If you stay at one of these hotels, you receive free Universal Express ride access.
Universal Studios Florida
6000 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 363-8000
universalorlando.com/Theme_Parks/Universal_Studios_Orlando/universal_studios_florida1.aspx#
Universal's Islands of Adventure
Islands of Adventure is Universal's second theme park. Each of the five areas are a themed island, including Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent and Seuss Landing.
2010 will bring a new themed island, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Coaster fans can enjoy the Incredible Hulk Coaster and Dueling Dragons, while younger children can enjoy The Cat in the Hat ride and a Popeye-themed play area Me Ship, The Olive. As with Universal Studios, guests staying at one of the three onsite hotels enjoy free Universal Express ride access.
Universal's Islands of Adventure
6000 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 363-8000
universalorlando.com/Amusement_Parks/Islands_of_Adventure/islands_of_adventure1.aspx#
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando allows your family to experience the wonders of the oceans up close. Areas of interst include Key West at SeaWorld, which is themed to look like Key West, Fla.; Shamu's Happy Harbor, a play area for younger kids; and The Waterfront at SeaWorld, which is themed to look like a Mediterranean village.
SeaWorld does not have any onsite hotels, but there are good hotels near the park. The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is three miles from SeaWorld and boasts a golf course designed by Greg Norman. Marriott's Grande Vista Resort is near SeaWorld and situated next to Grande Pines Golf Club, co-designed by Steve Smyers and Nick Faldo.
SeaWorld Orlando
7007 SeaWorld Drive
Orlando, FL 32821
(888) 800-5447
seaworld.com/orlando
