Best of Orlando’s Theme Parks

Magic Kingdom [1]: The heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the Magic Kingdom is home to such icons as Cinderella’s Castle, the Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain, and more. This was the first park built in Orlando, and for many people, it is synonymous with Disney World.

Animal Kingdom [2]: This is the most recent of all the kingdoms at the Walt Disney World Resort, and the combination of thrill rides, animal exhibits, and of course “Disney magic” has made it a wholly unique player on the theme-park stage.

Cirque du Soleil — La Nouba [3]: One of only three permanent Cirque du Soleil productions, La Nouba is a family-friendly exhibition of the Canadian circus troupe’s innovative and mind-boggling combination of gymnastics, acrobatics, and choreographed humor.

Universal Studios Florida [4]: Although sister park Islands of Adventure boasts more coasters and thrills, the Hollywood-centric atmosphere of Universal’s initial venture into Orlando offers a great combination of excitement (thanks to attractions like the Simpsons Ride) and entertainment.

Blue Man Group [5]: Universal has always been a few steps behind Disney when it comes to theme-park innovations, and for many people, the opening of a theater dedicated to New York performance art troupe Blue Man Group was seen as a direct response to the success of Cirque du Soleil at Downtown Disney. However, the Blue Man Group offers an entirely different experience, with a raucous rock-and-roll soundtrack and whimsical performances by those odd indigo mutes.

Discovery Cove [6]: Throughout the state of Florida — particularly in South Florida and the Keys — there are dozens of places that offer the opportunity for guests to experience up-close interactions with dolphins. None of them measure up to the sublime thrills offered up at Discovery Cove. Part island oasis, part eco-education center, and part pampering resort, a day here is utterly unlike any other experience in the area — dolphin, theme-park, or otherwise.