List of amusement parks in Central Florida facts for kids
Central Florida is super famous for its amazing amusement parks! It's like a giant playground where you can find all sorts of fun, from thrilling roller coasters to magical castles and incredible animal adventures. Millions of people visit these parks every year to make awesome memories. Let's explore some of the coolest spots in this sunny part of Florida, United States.
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Disney's Magical Worlds
The Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando is home to four huge theme parks, each with its own special theme. They are operated by Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.
Magic Kingdom
Opened in 1971, Magic Kingdom in Bay Lake is where fairy tales come to life! You can meet your favorite Disney characters, ride classic attractions like "It's a Small World," and watch spectacular parades and fireworks over Cinderella Castle. It's truly a place of magic.
Epcot
Epcot, also in Bay Lake, opened in 1982. It's divided into two main parts: World Showcase, where you can explore different countries, and World Discovery, World Nature, and World Celebration, which focus on technology, science, and the future. It's a great place to learn and have fun at the same time!
Disney's Hollywood Studios
If you love movies, Disney's Hollywood Studios (opened 1989 in Bay Lake) is for you! This park celebrates the magic of film and television. You can step into the worlds of Star Wars at Galaxy's Edge, shrink down to toy size in Toy Story Land, and experience thrilling rides based on famous movies.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Opened in 1998, Disney's Animal Kingdom in Bay Lake combines thrilling rides with incredible animal encounters. You can go on a safari to see real African animals, explore the mystical world of Pandora – The World of Avatar, and learn about conservation. It's an adventure into the wild!
Universal's Epic Adventures
Universal Orlando Resort offers two fantastic theme parks and a water park, all operated by Universal Destinations & Experiences.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida, opened in 1990 in Orlando, lets you "ride the movies." You can experience attractions based on popular films and TV shows, from Harry Potter's Diagon Alley to the thrilling rides of The Simpsons and Transformers.
Universal Islands of Adventure
Right next door, Universal Islands of Adventure (opened 1999 in Orlando) takes you to different themed "islands." Here you'll find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, Jurassic Park, Marvel Super Hero Island, and many more exciting lands with incredible rides and experiences.
Universal Epic Universe
Get ready for something new! Universal Epic Universe is a brand-new theme park currently being built in Orlando and is expected to open in 2025. It promises even more amazing worlds and attractions to explore.
Wild Animal Encounters
Central Florida is also home to parks where you can get up close with amazing animals.
Gatorland
Gatorland, opened in 1949 in Orlando, is known as the "Alligator Capital of the World." You can see thousands of alligators and crocodiles, watch exciting shows, and even zip-line over a pit of gators!
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
ZooTampa at Lowry Park, located in Tampa and opened in 1957, is a fantastic zoo focused on wildlife conservation. You can discover animals from Florida, Africa, Asia, and Australia, and learn about efforts to protect endangered species.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, opened in 1959 in Tampa, combines thrilling roller coasters with a large animal park. You can go on a safari, see amazing animals, and then brave some of Florida's most exciting rides, all in one place! It's operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando, opened in 1973 in Orlando, is famous for its marine animal shows and aquatic-themed rides. You can learn about ocean creatures like dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, and enjoy exciting roller coasters. It's also operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.
Discovery Cove
For a truly unique experience, visit Discovery Cove in Orlando, opened in 2000. This park offers amazing opportunities to swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish, and relax on beautiful beaches. It's an all-inclusive day of aquatic fun.
Other Awesome Parks
There are many other cool parks in Central Florida offering different kinds of fun.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, opened in 1967 on Merritt Island, is a must-visit for space fans! You can explore real rockets, meet astronauts, experience a shuttle launch simulation, and learn all about space exploration. It's operated by Delaware North.
Legoland Florida
Legoland Florida, opened in 2011 in Winter Haven, is perfect for fans of LEGO bricks! This park has rides, shows, and attractions all themed around LEGO, including amazing models built from millions of bricks. It's operated by Merlin Entertainments.
Peppa Pig Theme Park
Right next to Legoland, the Peppa Pig Theme Park opened in 2022, also in Winter Haven. It's designed especially for younger kids, bringing the world of Peppa Pig to life with gentle rides and play areas. It's also operated by Merlin Entertainments.
ICON Park
ICON Park, opened in 2015 in Orlando, is an entertainment complex with several attractions, including the famous 400-foot-tall Ferris wheel called The Orlando Eye. It's a great spot for views and fun activities. It's operated by Merlin Entertainments.
Weeki Wachee Springs
Weeki Wachee Springs, opened in 1947 in Weeki Wachee, is famous for its live mermaid shows performed in a natural spring. It's a unique and enchanting experience where you can watch "mermaids" swim and perform underwater. It's operated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Old Town
Old Town in Kissimmee, opened in 1986, offers a classic American car cruise, carnival rides, and unique shops. It's a fun place to step back in time and enjoy a lively atmosphere. It's operated by The Travel Corporation.
Fun Spot America Theme Parks
There are two Fun Spot America Theme Parks locations: one in Orlando (opened 1997) and one in Kissimmee (opened 2007). These parks are known for their thrilling multi-level go-kart tracks and exciting rides.
Dinosaur World
If you love dinosaurs, Dinosaur World in Plant City, opened in 1998, is a prehistoric adventure! You can walk among life-sized dinosaur models and even dig for fossils.
Give Kids the World Village
Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, opened in 1989, is a special non-profit resort that provides free vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families. It's a wonderful place where kids can experience the magic of Central Florida.
See also
- List of amusement parks in the Americas
