Top Tourist Attractions in Orlando Florida - Orlando Florida Theme Parks

Founded as a city in 1885, Orlando, Florida is now one of the top tourist attractions in the United States.  Over 48 million people visit Orlando every year.  The top attractions in Orlando include Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World Orlando.  Orlando is also home to the 2nd largest amount of hotel rooms in the United States, coming in second from Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Planning your next vacation to Orlando?  Well, if you're looking for the top tourist attractions in Orlando, then you have come to the right page!  In this following article we will explore the top attractions that Orlando has to offer including Walt Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios, and much, much more!

1. Walt Disney World

How can I not include Walt Disney World as one of the top attractions of Orlando, Florida?  Disney world is the world's largest recreational resort, with an average of 45 million visits per year.  This magical fantasy covers over 30,000 acres of land which includes 4 theme parks, 3 water parks, along with over 30 hotels.   The four parks include Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom.

The park first opened in 1971 with only one theme park - and that was Magic Kingdom.  The cost back then for adult admission was only 3.50!  The first number of staff members in 1971 was 5,500 ...today that number has grown to 66,000 staff members, making Disney World the largest single employer in the World.

For information on different parks, park hours, ticket pricing, special events, and more - visit Walt Disney World's Website.

2.  Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort consists of two theme parks located in Orlando, Florida.  Universal Studios - Florida is one of the theme parks that allows guests to experience "riding the movies".   Each year - over 5 million guests visit this theme park to experience some of the top attractions such as Twister, Jaws, and Revenge of the Mummy.  You can even catch certain characters such as Popeye, Spongebob, Marilyn Monroe, and many others walking around at the Universal Studios - Florida.

The other theme park within Universal Resort Orlando is Islands of Adventure.  Each year, an estimated 4.5 million visitors come to enjoy was is offered at the Islands of Adventure.  When you enter the main area, you are opted to go to 7 different islands, all of which have their own certain theme.  In 2010, the park opened it's 7th island what is known as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, this island was the largest investment since the park had opened in 1999.

If you are interested in visiting Universal Orlando Florida and you would like to find out more information such as park hours, tours, and ticket pricing, I suggest that you visit their website.

3. Aquatica (A Seaworld Park)

Aquatica is a Seaworld water theme park located in Orlando Florida. This park first opened it's doors in March of 2008, and it had approximately 950,000 guests in it's first operating year. One of the main attractions to the park includes the Dolphins plunge, which is an enclosed tube slide that passes through a pool of Commerson's Dolphins. There are also many body slides, raft slides and lazy rivers available. Not to mention there are two areas specifically for children. There is fine dining also available at this amazing water park, so go ahead - soak up the sun, enjoy time with your family, and experience a once in a live time vacation at Aquatica!

For information such as park hours, and ticket pricing - visit their website.

4.  Discovery Cove

Located adjacent to Aquatica, Discovery Cove gives guests the opportunity to swim and interact with dolphins.  Also available is a coral reef in which guests can have a snorkeling adventure with tons of tropical fish.  Guests can also have a swim in the Sting Ray tank which features dozens of sting rays that are up to 4 feet long. 

There is also a Tropical River located within the park that allows guests to float by a various assortment of tropical birds including parrots, toucans, and many other species of birds.  For more information on Discovery Cove including park hours, packages, and ticket information, visit their website today.

5. Gatorland

Gatorland was founded by Owen Goodwin in 1949 and is located in Orlando, Florida.  This Orlando tourist attractions offers many alligators and crocodiles, as well as an observation tower, reptile shows, educational programs, tours, and even a petting zoo.  Gatorland provides an excellent alternative to the big Orlando Parks - and you receive hands on experience too! 

Give yourself the chance to experience a once in a life time trip at Gatorland!  White alligators are also available at the park for a limited amount of time!

For more information including special events, park hours, and ticket information - visit their website today!

6.  Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a non profit organization located in Orlando, Florida.  This family attraction is sure to bring fun activities for all ages, including adults!  The Orlando Science Center offers hands on activities that make learning fun.  Many exhibits such as guitars, the universe, dinodigs, kidstown, and more are available! 

For more information on hours, exhibits, and ticket pricing, visit the Orland Science Center Website for more information.

So as you can see, there is plenty of attractions in Orlando, Florida.  I hope you enjoy your vacation, have a safe and happy trip!