Orlando is the theme park capital of the world and best known for its major attractions, ie the 4 parks-in-one at Walt Disney World, Universal Studios including Islands of Adventure and Sea World Orlando plus a host of other world-class entertainment parks. In the areas surrounding Orlando, visitors will find other, smaller and lesser known theme parks such as Gatorland and Water Mania. Orlando and the adjacent areas of Kissimmee and Lake Buena Vista are the major destinations for visitors to Florida and there is plenty see apart from the theme parks.

• Walt Disney World, (18 mi S of downtown in Lake Buena Vista). The acclaimed gold standard of theme parks on the planet. Hours vary by park and season.
• Universal Orlando Resort, International Dr, ☎ +1 407-363-8000. 9AM-closing times varying from 6PM-10PM. Top-ranked challenger to Disney, with two theme parks -- the original Universal Studios Florida and the second theme park, Islands of Adventure -- a nightclub and restaurant complex, CityWalk, and three resort hotels. Discounts are given for purchasing tickets online.
• SeaWorld Adventure Park Orlando, SeaWorld Dr, ☎ +1 407-351-3600 (toll free: +1 800-327-2424). 9AM-closing times varying from 6PM-10PM. A beautifully landscaped 200-acre marine theme park featuring fantastic shows, thrilling rides, and fun exhibits -- a more laid-back alternative to Disney and Universal. Variety of discounts may be available by purchasing tickets online.
• Aquatica, 5800 Water Play Way. Hours vary by season. Opened in 2008 water park by Sea World.
• Discovery Cove, 6000 Discovery Cove Way (9AM-5:30PM (until 9PM on selected evenings)), ☎ +1 407-370-1280. A unique companion to Sea World, it is often sold out as admission is limited to 1000 guests per day but admission does include all your equipment, food, drink and 30-minute interaction with the dolphins in the water. $259-279, $159-179 for non-dolphin package.
• Holy Land, 4655 Vineland Rd. Closed Tu. An educational, inspirational, biblical-themed park designed to look like Jerusalem. Discount on tickets purchased online.
• Gatorland, 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, ☎ +1 407-855-5496 (toll free: +1 800-393-JAWS). 9AM-5PM daily. A small alligator and reptile themed park.
• Wet 'N Wild, 6200 International Dr, ☎ +1 407-351-1800 (toll free: +1 800-992-WILD). Hours vary by season. Waterpark.