Destination: Orlando

If ever there was an ‘ultimate’ destination for a family holiday, this is it. There are more attractions packed into a few square miles in this part of Orange County than the rest of Florida combined, which may explain why 75 million tourists head to this corner of the world every year. Orlando is cheap and cheerful and a whole lot of fun. With so many restaurant chains lining the main streets the competition for your business is high so prices are low and meal times are generous, which all means that mum and dad will have money left over to spend on doing the fun stuff.

Although Orlando is famous for Disneyland and its other numerous Theme Parks, there is plenty more to see in the local area. A short drive to the outskirts will take you to Daytona which boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the state and is a haven for bikers who hold rally’s here every year. And the Citrus Bowl is the city’s famous sporting arena which regularly hosts a variety of events, including alternative sports like supercross or family activity days.

There are abundance of discount outlets for designer labels dotted around, and some of the best can be found in International Drive, but if some real retail therapy is what you’re after, the Florida Mall and the Festival Bay Mall are two locations where shopping is made fun. There are crèche centres for younger kids, amusement arcades for older ones, and a cinema showing kids and teen movies throughout the day.

Things to do in Orlando with kids

Theme Parks are the obvious and best recognized attractions in Orlando, and the choice is almost endless. The Magic Kingdom is the best destination for younger children because its home to Mickey Mouse, the other well loved Disney characters and the iconic castle that features in the movie credits. Smaller children will love to meet the characters and have their photos taken, and the themed restaurants, fireworks and regular parades will keep them happy when they’re not queuing for rides. More details...

There is such a choice of  theme parks to choose between, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead. SeaWorld is perfect for the whole family with plenty of rides and aquatic displays to enjoy, and has plenty of interactive play areas as well. Orlando Universal Studios and Universal Studios have themes from Harry Potter, The Mummy, E.T., Men in Black, and is a great destination for slightly older children who know the stories and have particular characters they prefer - there are riders for smaller children, as well plenty of evening entertainment and live stage shows to keep the fun going into the night. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is for every animal lover in your family and with over 1700 creatures in the park you won’t leave without spotting some of them. Click here to book your combo ticket to enter most of the parks here. More details...

For an alternative attraction in Orlando, crazy golf is a family favourite and there are plenty of places to play. Operators like Pirates Cove Adventure Golf are ideal for groups with children of all ages and they offer a variety of packages to enjoy. More details...

Family mealtimes don’t have to be a chore, and for something out of the ordinary there are several themed restaurants where you certainly get more than the food and drink you order. The Pirates Dinner Adventure serves up some hearty food while your family are mesmerized by the sight of pirates fighting it out on an 18th Century Galleon right before their eyes. Its worth checking out the Kids eat free card, ideal for 11 years and younger, as all their meals during your holiday duration are free at participating eateries! More details...

Step back in time with Titanic the Experience, an interactive display featuring the fated ship. There is a cast dressed in appropriate costumes and dinner is provided at one of their shows. It’s perfect for older children who have knowledge of the ship and its doomed voyage. More details...

The whole family will love the Orlando Sunrise Balloon Flight, and the opportunity to rise above the swamps and the citrus groves, or grab a view of the Magic Kingdom before the crowds descend upon it will be the perfect start to the morning. More details...

Head to Gatorland in Orlando for a fantastic family day out in one of the area’s best loved reserves. Here, kids can get to meet the scaly creatures, as well as a variety of other scary animals, experience Gator wrestling, and learn handy survival skills…just in case! More details...

These attractions are very popular, so it is advisable to pre- book to avoid disappointment. Both Isango and dosomethingdifferent.com offer competitive rates on attractions.

Recommended family friendly hotels in Orlando

Waldorf Astoria Orlando is next to Walt Disney World with complimentary shuttle to its parks. The hotel features a 3-acre lazy river and kids club with activities changing seasonally and can include bike rentals, arts and crafts, and films. The WA Kids Club is open to children ages 5 to 12 and After Dark 7PM - 10PM is designed to provide fun-filled activities and dinner served right in the Kids Club.( extra charge). All children under 18 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. More details...

Hilton Orlando is ideally situated in the centre of Orlando, off International Drive. A luxurious hotel offering spa services, 9-hole putting golf course, resort-style pools and a lazy river. Children receive a special gift bag upon check-in, including a Kids' Guest Directory providing details on dining options and menus, special kids' guest services, and puzzles/mazes. More details...

If you are looking for something a bit more private and with the comforts of home but a short distance away from all the attractions, The Bellavida Resort Orlando features fully furnished town homes. Located in East Kissimmee, the community is surrounded by a tropical landscape. Up to two children under 10 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. More details...

Recommended Family friendly holidays to Orlando

Walt Disney World Dolphin is a large resort in the heart of the WALT DISNEY WORLD, with large rooms and that oh so comfy Westin Heavenly Bed®. There are 5 pools, including a rock grotto pool, with water slide and waterfalls, and a beautiful white sand beach. Fully supervised evening entertainment where the kids are entertained whilst the parents can relax. Alternatively, Virgin offer a package holiday to the popular World Swan, with free car hire included!

Family friendly self catering accommodation in Orlando

For those looking for a great value, but high standards and the freedom of self catering, Kuoni have a good selection of spacious and modern homes. James Villas also have a large selection of villas to suit all tastes and budgets.