The best decisions to make in Orlando's theme parks

By Orlando Weekly Staff on Fri, Jun 16, 2023 at 11:54 am

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 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.

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 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.