Upcoming in Orlando
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Silver Spurs Rodeo — Boots, Bulls and Barrels
A family night out at the largest rodeo east of the Mississippi, featuring barrel racing and bull riding.
Top things to do
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The newest park at Universal Orlando, opened May 2025, with five themed worlds including Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and a Harry Potter Ministry of Magic land. The central Celestial Park hub anchors it with the Starfall Racers dueling coaster and Constellation Carousel. Plan a full day minimum and arrive at rope drop.
Four parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom) plus two water parks. Magic Kingdom is the single most iconic day for young kids, while EPCOT suits families who like a slower pace, science, and food. Prioritize one park per day and use Early Theme Park Entry if you stay on-site.
Home to Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, the new Epic Universe (opened 2025), and Volcano Bay. Better for tweens, teens, and thrill-seekers, with two Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands and Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World. Also the base for Halloween Horror Nights.
Four parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Magic Kingdom is the classic first-timer must-do with Cinderella Castle and gentle-to-medium rides, while EPCOT hosts the Food & Wine Festival from late August. Budget at least one full day per park.
A strong middle ground with serious roller coasters for teens plus animal encounters (orcas, dolphins, manatees, penguins) that toddlers love. Typically less crowded and cheaper than Disney or Universal, making it a good break day.
The two original Universal parks, home to both halves of the older Wizarding World of Harry Potter plus big coasters. Islands of Adventure skews thrill while Studios has movie-based rides and hosts Halloween Horror Nights at night.
Where to stay
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A AAA Five-Diamond luxury resort that also works as a legitimate family hotel, with a five-acre water park, lazy river, complimentary kids' club, and an adults-only pool. Guests get Disney perks including Early Theme Park Entry and transportation.
Styled after an Italian seaside village, this top-tier Universal hotel includes Universal Express Unlimited to skip regular lines at most rides, plus early park entry. Multiple pools, kid programs, and a short water-taxi ride to the parks.
The best-value on-site family pick at Universal, with a fun retro theme evoking iconic 1950s and 60s beach resorts. Families love the multiple pools, lazy river, and convenient location near the parks, plus family suites that sleep up to six to keep costs down.
Orlando guides
All guides →What's On in Orlando Right Now
A first-timer's guide to Orlando's best upcoming events, plus where to eat and stay nearby for an easy family trip.
Updated July 13, 2026
First-Timer's Guide to Orlando
A practical, family-focused guide to your first Orlando trip: which parks to prioritize, where to stay, what to skip, and where locals actually eat.
Updated July 13, 2026