Best 10 Family Things to Do in Orlando & the Space Coast
Combining the world-renowned magic of Orlando's theme parks with the sun-drenched wonder of the Space Coast creates the ultimate Central Florida family vacation. Beyond the thrilling roller coasters and character meet-and-greets, families can explore real-life space rockets, swim alongside gentle marine life, feed giraffes by hand, and unwind along miles of untouched Atlantic beaches. Whether you are blasting off on a simulated shuttle launch at the Kennedy Space Center or savoring a relaxed beach day in Cocoa Beach, this region strikes an unforgettable balance between high-energy entertainment and natural outdoor discovery. Efficient highway connections like the Beachline Expressway make combining both destinations effortless. This hand-picked top 10 guide reveals the very best family-tested attractions, insider timing advice, and practical tips to ensure a seamless Florida getaway for travelers of all ages.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
March to May, October to November
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Language
English
Time Zone
EDT (UTC-4)
THE TEN, AT A GLANCE
Where to stay in Orlando, Florida, USA
Not sure where to book? We’ve rounded up the best hotels in Orlando for every budget, with live prices and availability.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
The Experience
Standing in the shadow of massive moon rockets and real space shuttles, the Kennedy Space Center transforms space exploration into a thrilling reality for kids and adults alike. Walking beneath the actual Saturn V rocket or coming face-to-face with Space Shuttle Atlantis leaves visitors in absolute awe. What I love most is watching children race through Planet Play, an immersive indoor multi-story space adventure terrain, while parents learn about ongoing deep-space missions to Mars.
Why it’s worth your time
I consider this to be the single most inspiring and educational experience on the Space Coast, seamlessly blending awe-inspiring STEM history with cutting-edge simulator attractions.
Make the most of it
I strongly recommend booking your admission tickets online in advance and arriving right at opening to head straight to the Atlantis pavilion before afternoon crowd peaks.
When to go
Weekday mornings around 9:00 AM to enjoy quiet access to the Saturn V bus tour before afternoon lines build up.
Before you visit
Check the launch schedule on the official website before planning your visit day, as actual rocket launches can cause traffic delays and temporary closures of certain outdoor zones.
Plan your visit
Located at Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL. Take FL-528 East (Beachline Expressway) from Orlando (approx. 50-minute drive). Open daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours extend seasonally). Adult tickets $75, Child (ages 3–11) $65. Free parking for annual passholders; daily parking $10. Plan a full day (5 to 6 hours).
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Magic Kingdom Park - Walt Disney World
The Experience
Stepping onto Main Street, U.S.A. with Cinderella Castle towering in the distance is the quintessential Orlando moment for families. Six distinct themed lands host iconic dark rides, high-speed family coasters like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and beloved character encounters. What I enjoy most is watching families gather along the hub paths in the evening as spectacular fireworks and projections light up the castle sky to classic Disney melodies.
Why it’s worth your time
As the undisputed crown jewel of family entertainment worldwide, I think it is an essential stop for parents traveling with young children to capture timeless childhood magic.
Make the most of it
My favorite insider tip is to purchase Disney Genie+ or Lightning Lane passes early in the morning to bypass standby lines for popular attractions like Peter Pan's Flight and Space Mountain.
When to go
Early morning for rope drop (8:30 AM) or mid-afternoon during parade times when ride queues momentarily shorten.
Before you visit
Valid theme park admission and date-based park reservations may be required depending on your ticket type; check Disney's portal before traveling.
Plan your visit
Located at 1180 Seven Seas Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL. Accessible via I-4 West to World Drive. Park open daily from 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (hours vary by season). Single-day ticket prices range from $109 to $189 depending on date. Standard parking $30. Plan a full day (8 to 12 hours).
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Universal Islands of Adventure
The Experience
Bringing legendary comic books, myths, and films to life, Universal Islands of Adventure delivers high-octane excitement tailored for older kids, teens, and young-at-heart parents. Sweeping through the snow-capped roofs of Hogsmeade in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or braving the Jurassic World VelociCoaster provides non-stop adrenaline. What I love most is taking little ones to Seuss Landing, where whimsical bright colors and gentle storybook rides offer perfect fun for younger siblings.
Why it’s worth your time
Featuring some of the world's most innovative ride mechanics and immersive thematic storytelling, it is the ultimate theme park destination for adventurous families.
Make the most of it
I advise pairing your visit with a stay at an official Universal Premier hotel to unlock free Unlimited Express Passes, allowing your family to skip normal lines all day.
When to go
Early morning at park opening, taking the Hogwarts Express between parks mid-day when walking paths get congested.
Before you visit
Height restrictions are strictly enforced across major thrill rides; measure younger kids ahead of time to set expectations.
Plan your visit
Located at 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL. Accessible directly via I-4 East/West to exit 75B. Open daily 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies seasonally). Single-day tickets start at $109 per person. Parking $30. Plan 6 to 8 hours.
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SeaWorld Orlando
The Experience
Combining world-class marine life education with exhilarating family coasters, SeaWorld offers a dynamic balance for animal lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Children can touch friendly stingrays at Jewel of the Sea, watch playful penguins navigate icy habitats, and explore the interactive colorful neighborhood of Sesame Street Land. What I find most rewarding is sitting near the front of the dolphin presentation stadium, soaking in the high-flying athletic grace of these marine mammals.
Why it’s worth your time
I consider this park an ideal option for families looking for a less chaotic, walk-at-your-own-pace environment featuring both wildlife rescue education and top-tier coasters.
Make the most of it
I strongly recommend purchasing an All-Day Dining Deal if traveling with hungry kids, allowing family members to grab meals, snacks, and drinks every 90 minutes.
When to go
Weekdays around 10:00 AM, catching indoor marine habitat exhibits during the hottest mid-afternoon hours.
Before you visit
Bring a change of clothes or light towels for younger kids, as the splash zones at outdoor shows and water play areas will get them completely soaked.
Plan your visit
Located at 7007 SeaWorld Dr, Orlando, FL. Exit 71 off I-4. Open daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended on weekends). Single-day tickets start around $99 ($69+ when purchased online in advance). Parking $30. Plan 5 to 7 hours.
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More guides for Orlando, Florida, United States :
Canaveral National Seashore & Playalinda Beach
The Experience
Spanning 24 miles of pristine barrier island coastal dunes, Canaveral National Seashore is Florida’s longest expanse of undeveloped Atlantic oceanfront. Families can walk along golden sands, collect sea shells, search for nesting sea turtles, and watch wild pelicans dive into rolling waves. What I love most is standing on the quiet beach facing south toward the distant rocket launchpads, soaking in undisturbed natural coastal serenity.
Why it’s worth your time
It offers a refreshing, low-cost natural antidote to commercialized city parks, allowing kids to experience Florida's wild Atlantic wildlife in its purest form.
Make the most of it
I suggest packing a complete family beach picnic, umbrella, and plentiful water, as commercial shops and food vendors are intentionally absent inside the park borders.
When to go
Morning around 9:30 AM for cooler sand, easier parking lot availability, and active bird sightings.
Before you visit
There are limited shaded facilities along the dunes; ensure you bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and bug spray for coastal breezes.
Plan your visit
Access via State Road 406 East from Titusville to Playalinda Beach parking lots. Open daily 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (winter) / 8:00 PM (summer). Vehicle entry fee $20 (valid 7 days). Plan 3 to 4 hours.
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Gatorland
The Experience
Known as the "Alligator Capital of the World," this historic 110-acre wildlife park provides a fun, authentic glimpse of Old Florida charm. Thousands of American alligators and crocodiles inhabit the wooden boardwalk swamp habitats, alongside exotic birds, wildcats, and giant tortoises. What I consider most memorable is watching the famous Gator Jumparoo Show, where giant gators leap high out of the water to catch food snacks right in front of cheering crowds.
Why it’s worth your time
It delivers a budget-friendly, highly accessible wildlife experience that is manageable in half a day without the overwhelming walking distances of massive resorts.
Make the most of it
My favorite insider tip is to purchase hot dog alligator food at the entrance kiosk so kids can safely feed baby gators from the designated boardwalk viewing bridges.
When to go
Morning around 10:00 AM to explore shaded swamp boardwalks before peak noon heat.
Before you visit
Closed-toe shoes are required if family members plan to participate in the Screamin' Gator Zip Line over the alligator breeding marsh.
Plan your visit
Located at 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL. Accessible via US-441 South. Open daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Adult entry $35, Child (ages 3–12) $25. Free on-site parking. Plan 3 hours.
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Brevard Zoo
The Experience
Set within shaded native pine trees and wetlands on the Space Coast, Brevard Zoo is widely recognized for its open-air animal habitats and interactive conservation paths. Families can stroll along wooden boardwalks organized by geographic loops, including Expedition Africa and Australasia. What I find most thrilling is feeding giraffes by hand from an elevated platform or paddling a family kayak along the freshwater river flowing past rhinos and ostriches.
Why it’s worth your time
As the only zoo in the country offering guided kayak tours through animal habitats, it delivers an unforgettable hands-on experience for children.
Make the most of it
I advise booking your giraffe feeding experience and kayak adventure slots online when purchasing general admission tickets to reserve early time slots.
When to go
Morning at 9:30 AM when animals are most active and feeding routines begin.
Before you visit
Bring water shoes and towels for young kids so they can enjoy the Paws On splash zone area located inside the zoo grounds.
Plan your visit
Located at 8225 North Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL (Space Coast). Just off I-95 exit 191. Open daily 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Adult entry $33, Child (ages 3–11) $22. Free parking. Plan 3 to 4 hours.
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Discovery Cove
The Experience
Designed as an all-inclusive tropical resort sanctuary, Discovery Cove limits daily attendance to ensure an uncrowded luxury lagoon day for families. Guests can swim alongside bottlenose dolphins, snorkel through The Grand Reef surrounded by tropical fish and stingrays, and wade into freshwater rivers past colorful birds in the Explorer’s Aviary. What I love most is relaxing on white sandy beaches with unlimited food, drinks, and snacks provided all day long.
Why it’s worth your time
I think it is the ultimate stress-free VIP splurge for families, offering seamless dolphin interactions and bucket-list snorkeling without lines or crowds.
Make the most of it
I strongly recommend booking months in advance, as limited daily reservations sell out quickly during high season.
When to go
Arrive by 7:30 AM to check in early, secure prime beach loungers, and enjoy a full breakfast before your scheduled dolphin interaction.
Before you visit
Everything from wetsuits, snorkel gear, and bio-degradable sunscreen to meals and drinks is included; you only need to pack swimwear and dry clothes.
Plan your visit
Located at 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL (adjacent to SeaWorld). Open daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Day resort packages vary by season ($170 to $360+ per person depending on dolphin swim inclusions). Free self-parking included. Plan a full day (7 hours).
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Crayola Experience Orlando
The Experience
Spanning 70,000 square feet inside The Florida Mall, this colorful indoor attraction is packed with over 20 hands-on creative stations designed for children. Kids can name and wrap their own custom Crayola crayon, watch live wax-melting theater shows, paint with melted wax, and climb through multi-level indoor play structures. What I find most delightful is watching children melt wax into custom rings and sea creatures to take home as personalized souvenirs.
Why it’s worth your time
It is the ideal interactive, air-conditioned haven for younger kids during hot Florida afternoons or rainy weather days.
Make the most of it
I advise buying tickets online in advance to skip the main ticketing counter queue during weekend afternoons.
When to go
Early afternoon around 1:00 PM on rainy days or hot summer weekdays.
Before you visit
Dress children in easy-to-wash clothes, as hands-on painting and wax stations can get wonderfully messy.
Plan your visit
Located inside The Florida Mall, 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL. Open daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (8:00 PM on weekends). General admission $29 online ($34 at door); children under 2 free. Free mall parking. Plan 2 to 3 hours.
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Cocoa Beach Pier & Surf Culture
The Experience
Extending 800 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, the historic Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is the cultural icon of Florida’s Space Coast surf scene. Families can stroll along the wooden boardwalk, watch local surfers catch ocean waves, enjoy fresh seafood at open-air pier restaurants, and rent surfboards or beach chairs right on the sand. What I enjoy most is stopping by the legendary Ron Jon Surf Shop—the world's largest surf store—just down the road for fun family photo ops and classic beach gear.
Why it’s worth your time
It provides an authentic, laid-back beach town experience just 45 minutes east of Orlando, making it the easiest Atlantic coastal getaway for families.
Make the most of it
My favorite insider tip is to sign up kids for a beginner surf lesson with local instructors near the pier for gentle, safe wave riding.
When to go
Late afternoon around 4:00 PM for cooler ocean breezes, casual pier dining, and sunset ocean views.
Before you visit
Pier parking lots charge daily rates; bring card payment methods for parking meters.
Plan your visit
Located at 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL. Accessible via FL-528 East directly from Orlando. Pier open daily 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; beach open 24/7. Beach access free; pier parking $15–$20 daily. Plan 3 to 5 hours.
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Where to stay in Orlando, Florida, USA
Finding the perfect place to stay depends on your family’s itinerary—whether you prefer staying near Orlando’s major theme parks, relaxing along the Atlantic beaches on the Space Coast, or splitting your stay between both. Orlando offers immersive resort complexes with water parks and character dining, while the Space Coast features quiet oceanfront hotels close to the rocket launch sites. Here are my personal recommendations:
Unique & Instagram-Worthy Stays:
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Set directly on a 46-acre private African savanna in Orlando, this immersive Disney resort lets families watch zebras, giraffes, and gazelles graze right outside their room balconies. Featuring authentic African art, grand thatched ceilings, and world-class dining, it delivers a memorable safari experience. Check availability
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Transporting guests into a vibrant 1950s and 60s retro beach resort, this mid-century modern hotel features two massive pools, a lazy river, a 10-lane bowling alley, and bright family suites. Its early admission access to Universal theme parks makes it a top pick. Check availability
Cape Crossing Resort & Marina: Situated along the Intracoastal Waterway on Merritt Island (Space Coast), this waterfront resort features spacious luxury townhomes and condos with full kitchens and boat dock access. Its tranquil riverfront location puts you minutes from the Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach. Check availability
Classic Orlando Stays:
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center: A massive Kissimmee resort anchored by a soaring 4.5-acre glass atrium reproducing key Florida ecosystems, including Everglades key parks and Key West historic streets. Complete with an expansive water park featuring splash pads and racing slides, it offers non-stop family fun. Check availability
Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront: Located directly on the sands of Cocoa Beach, this classic coastal resort offers oceanview family rooms, direct beach access, a heated outdoor pool, and outdoor deck dining. It provides an ideal base for exploring the Space Coast and watching rocket launches. Check availability
Budget-Friendly Favorites:
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Offering unmatched value right near Universal Orlando, this modern surf-themed resort features spacious two-bedroom family suites that comfortably sleep six. With free theme park shuttles and early park entrance included, it is perfect for budget-conscious families. Check availability
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Port Canaveral: Located in Cape Canaveral just minutes from the Kennedy Space Center and cruise terminals, this friendly hotel offers clean family rooms, free warm breakfast, and an outdoor pool. It provides an affordable gateway for exploring the Space Coast. Check availability
EDITORIAL NOTES
We visit or research every place on this list ourselves and no business pays to appear here. Some accommodation links are affiliate links: if you book through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. Prices shown are indicative and change with your dates.
