The best decisions to make in Orlando's theme parks
Orlando (and the rest of the world) is full of opinions about its theme parks and attractions. Between Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Epcot, SeaWorld and all the rest, it's not hard to fall victim to the classic tourist mistakes — we've all made 'em once or twice. So we're here to share our hard-earned wisdom.
If you're new here, you'll definitely need some tips. If you're a local, you might learn something new. Here are the best decisions you can make when visiting Orlando's theme parks.
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Photo via Disney Springs/Facebook
Ask for a special occasion button at Disney parks
Anniversary, birthday, first time at the park: There’s a button for that!
Courtesy photo
Grab a free beer at SeaWorld
Dress the kids, pack up the lunch bags and head over to this aquatic park. And then drink away the stress with their summer-only beer deals.
Photo via Universal Orlando Resort/Facebook
Use your trip for crazy photo-ops
The stream of hearts on your Instagram feed will be worth all the hassle of waiting for other park-goers to get out of your shot.
Photo via Universal Orlando Resort/Facebook
Ride Islands of Adventure's Velocicoaster
Get a little whiplash — you only live once!
Rendering via Disney
Look forward to Tiana's Bayou Adventure
So long, Splash Mountain. We're ready for some jazz.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Arrive at rope drop
There's no time to be wasted; get to Orlando theme parks right when they open.
Photo via Google Maps
Watch the Epcot fireworks from the Italy Isola
Fireworks, seaside ... che bella.
Image via Adobe
Plan your trips during off-peak times of the year
Don't crowd in with all the tourists; you deserve better than that!
Photo courtesy Universal Orlando
Scream at Halloween Horror Nights
You might have trouble sleeping after, but the thrill is always worth it.
Photo via Adobe
Leave the park midday for a nap
You really need to conserve some energy to make it to a fireworks show.
Photo via SeaWorld/Facebook
Ride SeaWorld's newest roller coaster
Pipeline, the park's surf-themed standing roller coaster, is here and it's tons of fun, but maybe plan for some
gravity-induced discomfort.
Photo via Google Maps
Watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from behind the castle next to Pinocchio’s Village Haus
An underrated view without the stress of a tourist-filled crowd.
Photo via Google Maps
Start drinking around the world at Epcot in Canada
We know, it’s Canada. But do you really want to jump right in at Mexico? Pace yourselves, people.
Photo via DisneyWorld.Disney.Go.com
Grab your morning coffee before you enter the parks
Lines at on-site Starbucks locations, like this one in Animal Kingdom, get a little hectic.
Photo via WDWMagic.com
Stay hydrated
Somehow, theme parks are impenetrable by cool breezes. Don't let the heat get the best of you; make sure you're drinking fluids, even if it takes buying yourself a themed water bottle.
Photo via DisneyWorld.Disney.Go.com
Use Virtual Line to ride Tron at Disney World
The lines here pile up, so get in any way you can.
Photo via Adobe
Continually hold down the trigger while riding Men in Black at Universal for maximum points
They don't want you to know about this one weird hack!
Photo via Universal Orlando Resort/Facebook
Perfect your timing when you snap a pic of the dragon at Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Your photos will be fire, if you time it just right.
Photo via Universal Orlando Resort/Facebook
Take advantage of single-rider lines everywhere
Leave your group behind and get to the rides faster. You're not going to talk much while you're riding anyway!
Photo via Disney Springs/Facebook
Try Disney’s new Pride Month snacks and treats
Mouthfuls of rainbow are available in June at several Disney parks and
Disney Springs eateries.