Trips

Ultimate Guide to a Disney World & Orlando Vacation

May 4, 2023

Why Visit Disney World in Orlando?

Orlando, Florida, is a place of adventure, magic and fun. Whenever you want to soak up the sun while exploring different worlds and experiencing epic rides, ensure you stop at some of the theme parks in the area. From Disney and Universal to Gatorland, you will make memories that last a lifetime.

When you need a quiet place to relax and recuperate after long days of exploring the parks, consider staying at a campground near Orlando. Camping near Disney World just adds to the excitement of your vacation.

Ideal Months to Visit Orlando

While resorts and amusement parks in Orlando, Florida, are open year-round, there are peak seasons when people like to visit. Whether during a school break or as a fun summer vacation, popular times to go to Orlando are March through April and June through September.

Things to Do and See in Orlando

Stay active while visiting theme parks or take leisurely walks through a zoo or museum in Orlando. The city has many activities the whole family will love to experience. Here are some fun, must-see attractions to visit and cross off your bucket list.

Disney World

Celebrate the magic of Disney World during your Florida vacation. Adults and kids alike will be in awe of the rides, food, drinks and experiences you will have at the four parks:

  • Hollywood Studios: Step into the world of television and film while at Hollywood Studios. Explore Toy Story Land and venture to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to see the movies come to life.
  • Epcot: Travel around the world without taking a plane while at Epcot. The park highlights cultures across 11 countries in the World Showcase. You’ll have access to diverse food and beverages representing each country and multiple rides to enjoy.
  • Magic Kingdom: When the magic is calling, ensure you answer the call by going to the Magic Kingdom for a day. The iconic Disney World park showcases enchanting rides, experiences and entertainment.
  • Animal Kingdom: Go on a safari, celebrate the Festival of the Lion King and step back into the time of the dinosaurs during a trip to Animal Kingdom.

Disney also has two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, which guests can visit to cool off in wave pools, lazy rivers and slides. The parks often host festivals and special events throughout the year, so watch out to see when one occurs so you can plan a trip to experience the fun.

Universal Orlando Resort

Continue the fun and exploration of different worlds by spending time at Universal Orlando Resort. It has two parks full of pop culture and entertainment:

  • Universal Studios Florida™: Step into the worlds of your favorite movies and TV shows at Universal Studios Florida™. Go on rides based on movies from the past and present, like “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “Despicable Me” and “The Mummy.”
  • Universal’s Islands of Adventure™: Experience even more adventures at Universal’s Islands of Adventure™. The park has thrilling rides and performances based on “Jurassic Park,” “Harry Potter,” and Dr. Seuss.

You could also become a wizard with your own wand, a chocolate frog and a glass of butter beer during a trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a land split between both Universal parks. Walk down Diagon Alley™ or take a train to Hogsmeade™ to get the whole magical experience.

SeaWorld® Orlando

See marine animals, ride rollercoasters and kid-friendly rides and learn about aquatic animal conservation efforts during a trip to SeaWorld® Orlando. Watch manatees, sea lions, beluga whales, sharks and orcas as they swim in their habitats. You could even dine with orcas for a special event with your family.

Gatorland

Florida is known for its alligators. While you want to avoid them during everyday activities, you could go to Gatorland to see them in a safe and enclosed environment. With alligators and crocodiles being the closest living relatives to dinosaurs, seeing them in person is a feat.

In addition to crocodiles and alligators, the park has birds, capybaras, snakes and wild cats.

Kennedy Space Center

If space piques your curiosity, the Kennedy Space Center is a must-see. Its various attractions let you learn exciting facts about the moon, rockets, astronauts and space missions. If you plan your trip at the right time, you might even witness a rocket launch or meet an astronaut.

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

You could also travel outside the city a little bit to stroll through Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Over 350 animals call the zoo home, so you can see frogs, parrots, cheetahs, sloths and tarantulas, among many more wild and wonderful creatures. Walking through the zoo, you’ll also see the beautiful flora and plants in the different gardens throughout the property.

Orlando also has many other things to do outside theme parks. Don’t miss your chance to discover new restaurants and museums while you are in the city.

Stay at Campgrounds Near Orlando, FL

While planning your trip to the theme parks, ensure you have a safe and cozy place to stay. You can experience Disney World camping at a Kampgrounds of America RV campground near Orlando. At KOA, we ensure travelers have an unforgettable visit while vacationing in the Southeast.

Our Orlando campgrounds have plenty of campsites ready to accommodate you and your family. From RV and Tent Sites to Deluxe and Camping Cabins, you will be comfortable and have access to many amenities. We have several KOA Campgrounds near Disney World, including Orlando NW / Orange Blossom KOA JourneyOrlando / Kissimmee KOA Holiday and Orlando Southwest KOA Holiday. You can stay at any of them and have a fun camping experience on top of your adventures in the parks.

Book Your Reservation Today at KOA

If your family loves camping and going to theme parks, combine the two with RV camping at Disney World. The many KOA Campgrounds in the area provide excellent Orlando camping experiences. We’ll help you relax and get the rest you need to continue exploring the city’s attractions. Reserve your stay at KOA today!


About the Author: Kampgrounds of America

Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.

Enjoy a Greater Slice of the Great Outdoors

Discover even more room to enjoy outdoor living with a KOA Patio Site®. These spacious sites offer your very own patio equipped with outdoor furniture and the perfect place for a fire. Wake up and enjoy a cup of coffee with the sunrise and spend an evening relaxing with family and friends.

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