Best Florida Theme Parks (Updated 2025)

Best Florida Theme Parks for Families & Thrill Seekers

Walt Disney World Resort Orlando Florida – Magic Kingdom entrance Universal Orlando Resort Florida – Universal Studios globe entrance

If you're planning a family getaway to the best Florida theme parks, you’ve landed in the right spot. Buying your Florida theme park tickets online is the smartest way to skip long lines, enjoy exclusive discounts, and unlock flexible options—especially when visiting world-famous attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and LEGOLAND Florida.

Booking through trusted partners such as Viator and Expedia ensures secure checkout, price guarantees, and instant confirmations. Whether you’re bundling your Florida theme park vacation packages with hotel stays, grabbing Express Passes, or looking for budget-friendly Florida theme parks for kids, we’ve got you covered. Check out our comparison chart below to find the best theme park ticket options in Florida — and start planning your magical, stress-free adventure today.

Iron Gwazi roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Giraffe habitat exhibit at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – One of the Best Florida Theme Parks for Thrills and Wildlife

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay stands out among Florida amusement parks as a thrilling mix of roller coasters, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly attractions. Located in Tampa, this African-themed adventure park combines heart-pounding rides with one of the nation’s largest zoological collections — making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the best Florida theme parks.

From iconic coasters like Iron Gwazi and Montu to animal exhibits and live entertainment, Busch Gardens offers excitement for every age group. Families love its blend of thrill rides, immersive safari experiences, and educational encounters that celebrate the beauty of wildlife.

Whether you’re planning a Florida family vacation or a one-day park adventure, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay delivers unforgettable experiences, thrills, and value for every visitor.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay FAQ

What are the best rides at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay?

Don’t miss Iron Gwazi, one of the world’s fastest hybrid coasters, plus SheiKra, Montu, and Cheetah Hunt for top thrills.

Does Busch Gardens Tampa Bay have animals?

Yes — Busch Gardens is home to over 200 animal species across themed habitats including the Serengeti Safari and Edge of Africa.

Can I bring food or drinks into Busch Gardens?

Outside food is not permitted, except for sealed water bottles and medically necessary or infant items.

What are Busch Gardens Tampa Bay hours?

Operating hours vary seasonally but typically run from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and extended hours on weekends or holidays.

Are there hotels near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay?

Yes — several nearby hotels offer Busch Gardens Florida packages and free shuttle service to the park. Check our Busch Gardens hotel guide for details.

LEGO Kingdoms medieval area at LEGOLAND Florida Families playing with LEGO bricks at LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida – The Ultimate Theme Park for Kids and LEGO Lovers

LEGOLAND Florida, located in Winter Haven, is one of the best Florida theme parks for families with younger children. This colorful, creativity-fueled destination is packed with hands-on attractions, playful rides, and interactive shows — all themed around the iconic LEGO bricks.

Kids can race on junior coasters, build and test their own LEGO creations, and explore immersive worlds like LEGO Kingdoms and LEGO NINJAGO World. The park also features a splash-worthy water park, perfect for cooling off, and beautiful gardens with a historic twist at Cypress Gardens. For the ultimate experience, families can stay on-site at the themed Pirate Island or LEGO Castle Hotels — keeping the magic going all night long.

Whether you're planning your child's first theme park visit or looking for a family-friendly Florida getaway, LEGOLAND Florida delivers imagination, fun, and unforgettable memories.

LEGOLAND Florida FAQ

What are the height limits at LEGOLAND Florida?

Most family rides require a minimum of 36″–40″. Thrill coasters like The Dragon require 40″; kids under 48″ must ride with an adult.

Do I need separate tickets for the Water Park?

Yes — access requires either a combo ticket or the Water Park add-on. Check ticket details before purchase.

Can I bring outside food or water?

You may bring water, small snacks, and allergy-specific items. Full meals generally aren’t allowed.

Is the park stroller-friendly?

Yes — strollers are welcome. You may bring your own or rent one at the front entrance.

What are the best times to visit for shorter lines?

Early mornings right at park opening and early afternoons after lunch (2–3 PM) typically have shorter waits.

Universal Studios Florida – Ride the Movies at One of the Best Theme Parks in Florida

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride at Universal Studios Florida Harry Potter world entrance at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is the headline attraction of Universal Orlando Resort and one of the best Florida theme parks for movie lovers and thrill-seekers. Guests are transported into their favorite films with immersive lands, cinematic rides, and blockbuster-themed entertainment.

Step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley to explore Gringotts Bank, Butterbeer stands, and Ollivanders wand shop. Brave high-speed thrills on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit or escape ancient curses on Revenge of the Mummy. Families will love Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Transformers: The Ride-3D, and the nostalgic E.T. Adventure.

Live shows, themed dining, and character encounters make Universal Studios Florida a must-see destination on any Florida vacation itinerary.

Universal Studios Florida FAQ

What’s the height requirement for Harry Potter rides?

Harry Potter rides: 40″–48″ with adult, 48″+ can ride alone (varies by attraction; check app or signage).

How do I add Express Pass?

Express Pass can be added during checkout or in the Universal Orlando app. Prices vary by date and crowd levels.

Is parking included with tickets?

Parking is separate — standard rates start around $30/day. Premium and preferred options cost more.

Can I bring outside food?

Guests can bring small snacks and bottled water. Full meals are restricted unless medically necessary.

Does the park reopen after dark?

The park closes in the evening, but CityWalk next door stays open late with dining and nightlife.

Fun Spot Orlando – Classic Thrills & Family Fun

Ferris wheel at Fun Spot America Orlando White Lightning coaster station at Fun Spot Orlando

Fun Spot America Orlando brings classic amusement park charm to the heart of the city — from towering Ferris wheels to high-speed wooden coasters like White Lightning. This locally loved park is one of the best budget-friendly theme parks in Florida, offering unlimited wristbands, easy parking, and attractions for all ages.

Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or looking for affordable thrills, Fun Spot delivers big adventure with small-town energy — perfect for families, groups, and visitors who want theme park fun without the crowds or high costs.

Fun Spot Orlando FAQ

Can I buy individual ride tickets?

Yes — choose between all-day wristbands or single-ride tickets depending on your group’s preferences.

What are the height requirements?

White Lightning & Freedom Flyer require 48″. Kids rides are 42″ minimum; toddlers have their own dedicated play zones.

Is parking free?

Yes — parking is always free for all Fun Spot America Orlando guests.

Are there food options on-site?

Yes — enjoy casual eats like pizza, burgers, funnel cakes, and classic midway snacks throughout the park.

Is there a dress code?

Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Swimwear permitted only in the Splash Zone area.

🎟️ Compare & Book Florida Theme Park Tickets

Theme ParkStandard TicketsExpress/Skip the LineBundle & Save
🎢 Universal Orlando 🎟️ Book Tickets ⚡ Express Pass 📦 Vacation Packages
🏰 Walt Disney World 🎟️ Park Tickets ✨ Genie+ Available On-Site 📦 Hotel + Tickets
🌊 Disney Water Parks 🌴 Water Park Pass 📦 Vacation Bundles
🦁 Busch Gardens Tampa 🎟️ Get Tickets ⚡ Quick Queue Available 📦 Hotel Packages
🧱 LEGOLAND Florida 🎟️ Buy Tickets 🎟️ Express Included 📦 Ticket + Hotel
🎠 Aquatica Orlando 🌊 Book Entry

🎟️ Compare & Book Florida Theme Park Tickets

Tap a park below to view ticket options and book through our trusted partners.

🗺️ Florida Theme Park Comparison

Theme ParkBest ForMust-DoTicket Tip🎟️ Tickets
LEGOLAND FloridaKids 2–12, families, LEGO fansThe Dragon Coaster, Build & TestBuy combo for park + water-parkBuy Tickets
Busch Gardens TampaThrill seekers, animal loversIron Gwazi, safari ridesLook for online deals & animal-experience passesBuy Tickets
Walt Disney WorldAll ages, Disney fans, event seekersCinderella Castle, Genie+ accessUse multi-day park hopper & Genie+ discountsBuy Tickets
Universal StudiosMovie lovers, teens, thrill seekersHarry Potter, Rip Ride RockitBundle hotel + Express Pass for savingsBuy Tickets
Fun Spot OrlandoFamilies, budget-conscious visitorsWhite Lightning, go-kartsOrder wristbands online to saveBuy Tickets

🎡 Disney World Orlando vs Universal Orlando Resort

FeatureDisney World OrlandoUniversal Orlando Resort
Parks IncludedMagic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal KingdomUniversal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe
Theming & AudienceFamily-focused, nostalgic, character storytellingThrill-oriented, immersive IP like Harry Potter, Mario
Ideal Duration4–5 days recommended2–4 days usually sufficient
Ticket & CostPark-hopper, generally higher costIncludes Epic Universe, more budget-friendly
Latest ExpansionOngoing upgrades, no new parks recentlyEpic Universe opened May 22, 2025
Best ForFamilies with young kids, Disney storytelling fansThrill-seekers, Harry Potter fans, Express pass users

Choose the park that fits your travel style — the magic of Disney World or the action-packed thrills and new Epic Universe at Universal.

✅ Universal Tickets & Hotels Guide

Visit our detailed guides for more: Disney World GuideHotels Near Fun Spot & Universal

🧐 Florida Theme Park FAQs

Common questions about the best Florida theme parks — from tickets and crowds to hotels and rain policies.

Florida’s best theme parks include Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and LEGOLAND Florida.
Buy Florida theme park tickets online through Viator or Expedia for secure checkout and bundle savings.
The best times to visit are late January–May and September–November, when weather is mild and crowds are lighter.
Use multi-day passes, combo tickets, or hotel packages with park entry. Weekday visits and early online purchase save 10–30%.
Stay near your main park — Disney-area resorts, Universal partner hotels, or family stays near LEGOLAND and Busch Gardens.
Most parks remain open in rain. Bring ponchos and enjoy indoor shows; some issue rain checks or re-entry passes for storms.