There are so many exciting reasons to visit Orlando, Florida. Gorgeous sandy beaches, great weather for year-round fun, water parks in abundance, great shopping and entertainment and, of course, the world-famous theme parks!
But beyond those wonderful character meet and greets, thrilling roller coasters, and days spent playing in the soft, white sand, Orlando boasts an incredible and breathtakingly diverse world of natural wonders and wildlife. This amazing range of flora and fauna is perfect for families who want the best of both worlds – thrilling of the theme parks and the chance to get up close and personal with nature.
Orlando offers an incredible balance that makes for an unforgettable family vacation, from fostering an appreciation of nature to educational wildlife encounters that highlight the importance of conservation and the planet. Orlando really does have it all!
So, what experiences should families with a passion for nature consider during their trip to Orlando? Here are my top picks for an unforgettable trip.
Getting Around
Planning how you’re going to get around Orlando can help you organize your itinerary and figure out how you’re going to get from one attraction to another. While some visitors opt for public transport and shuttle buses to and from theme parks, families who want to focus their time on nature-based activities might find having their own vehicle makes things a little easier. You can easily hire a car in Orlando to get you and your family from A to B. Here’s why you might want to consider it.
- Freedom and flexibility: With so much to see and do in Orlando, getting around is much easier when you’re not tied to schedules. Having a car also means being able to explore further afield too!
- Convenience: When you have multiple kids, strollers, day bags, picnics, car seats and more, having your own car might be a blessing in disguise!
- Cost saving: Families might find hiring a car more cost effective than paying for cabs, ride shares, or public transportation.
- Escape the Floridian heat: No matter when you visit Orlando, you’ll likely experience high temperatures and occasional downpours. Having your own air conditioned vehicle means stress free travel and you can all stay dry and cool – a life saver for those with lots of bags and kids!
Top Family-Friendly Wildlife Attractions in Orlando
Are you ready for an unforgettable wildlife adventure? The whole family will love all of these attractions, the most difficult part? Choosing which ones to put on your itinerary!
Discovery Cove: Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort where visitors can swim with dolphins, snorkel along The Great Reef, and keep an eye out for all kinds of mammals and fish. Visitors can also try the unique SeaVenture experience, where you can walk underwater, along the seabed surrounded by exotic fish and marine life.
Gatorland: Florida is renowned for its alligator population, so if you and your children want to (safely) get up close and personal with the local residents, then you might want to book tickets to Gatorland. Dubbed the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland offers tours and talks from expert handlers throughout the day. You can also explore their other animal offerings including capybaras and various bird species! A must-see for any budding animal enthusiast.
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: Head to downtown Orlando and you’ll find a paradise that is home to over 350 animals from more than 100 species. You can feed giraffes here, learn about local flora and fauna, and understand the importance of conservation and our delicate ecosystems!
Walt Disney World Resort: While our main focus is nature and wildlife attractions, I have to mention Walt Disney World. Of course it’s famous for its characters and rides, but Disney World also offers some pretty amazing wildlife experiences too. So, if you’re planning on visiting the parks for a day, head to Animal Kingdom and embark on the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride for a guided tour of the African savanna, where you can encounter rhinos, antelopes, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and lions roaming freely!
Top Nature Attractions in Orlando
Want to get away from all the crowds? Orlando is a hugely popular tourist destination, so it’s understandable, especially if you have young children who feel a little constrained by their stroller or a parent’s hand as you move through the crowds. To give the kids some freedom and everyone a chance to get a little closer to nature, consider exploring one of Orlando’s many nature-based attractions. From state parks to gardens and forests, the whole family will have a blast, blow off some steam, and enjoy a break from the crowds.
Lake Eola Park: A beautiful spot located in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park offers a scenic walk around the lake that is perfect for a scenic stroll away from the crowds. Kids can enjoy the play area and you might even want to hire a swan boat and head out on the lake itself.
Wekiwa Springs State Park: A beautiful and refreshing retreat in downtown Orlando, Wekiwa Springs offers nature trails that are perfect for wildlife spotting, and opportunities for swimming in the crystal-clear spring water. Families can also hire bikes and canoes if they want to make a day of it.
Big Tree Park: If you have young children in tow, then a visit to Big Tree Park is a wonderful way to let them explore nature safely and have a great time in the fresh air. Home to some of the most ancient trees in the state, the park has flat, wide boardwalks (ideal for strollers and little legs) and a playground too!
So there you have it. Orlando isn’t all about theme parks and cute character meet-and-greets. If you and your family are eager to inject your next Orlando vacation with some much needed nature and wildlife time, then you won’t have to go too far to find it.
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