The majority of people first think of Disney World when they hear the words “Orlando, Florida.”  However, Disney is not Orlando’s only popular tourist attraction.  Find out what else Orlando has to offer besides the Magic Kingdom.

Islands of Adventure - Orlando

Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure is an attraction belonging to Universal Studios.  Steven Spielberg worked on this attraction as a creative consultant and his design influence can be seen throughout.  Because it is a popular tourists site, it is recommended to arrive well before their 9am opening time.

Even though the lines can be long, if you possess a fast pass from Universal Studios, you can book your ticket in advance to receive a quick admission during the specified time given to you by Universal Studios.

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove

If the idea of taking a swim with dolphins interests you, Discovery Cove is a must-see attraction.  Besides swimming in a lovely lagoon surrounded by dolphins, you can see exotic fish and rays while reef diving and snorkeling.  Their Wind-Away River allows you to take a relaxing ride in a slow-moving stream as you experience feeding colorful birds straight from your hands.  With a maximum visitor allowance of 1,100, there is never the annoyance of fighting through throngs of excited tourists.

Sea World Orlando

Sea World

The extensive marine life available for viewing at Sea World is astounding–sharks, killer whales, turtles, barracudas, dolphins, penguins, an so much more.  There is much more to see than collections of marine animals.  Tourists have the opportunity to enjoy the rides of the Journey Atlantis, Kraken, and Wild Arctic.  The food served is also amazing.  Sea World is a tourist site so popular that many people come to Orlando solely for this attraction.

Universal Studios

Universal Studios

Anyone who goes to Universal Studios will have a unique, moving-viewing experience.  Children will love catching glimpses of famous movie characters who roam about Universal and adults will enjoy seeing actual tapings of television shows as Universal Studios is still an active movie and television production studio.  Universal even shows specially released movies that can not be seen but at the studio.  And the rides are a favorite of both children and adults.

Gatorland

Gatorland

Gatorland provides a refreshing change of pace from the commercialized attractions Orlando has to offer.  Located towards Kissimmee, Florida, Gatorland is known as one of Orlando’s original attractions where visitors can look at alligators and crocodiles native to not only Florida, but also the rest of the world.

For those who shy away from large, live reptiles, Gatorworld also has a petting zoo full of animals such as goats, llamas, deer, emus, and tortoises.  However, rest assured that all gators and crocs are kept in secure areas inaccessible to tourists and their children.  It is a fantastic way to spend a fun afternoon while learning about the ecological system of Florida.