Florida is the king of theme parks no matter how hard other places try. The best theme parks in Florida are really the best theme parks in the world, and they include Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Busch Gardens, SeaWorld and EPCOT.
Listing just five best theme parks in Florida is hard because there are so many. Your favorite will depend on your personal tastes. But if you’re looking for a place to start, this list includes the best of the best when it comes to theme parks in the Sunshine State.
Disney’s Magic Kingdom
The top of the list because, well, come on. It’s Disney World! There’s a reason that the Magic Kingdom continues to attract millions of people every year from all over the world. Disney has perfected the theme park experience. And the rides! While they may seem dated to some, rides such as the Haunted Mansion. Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean continue to provide thrills for the young and nostalgia for their parents. If you have time to visit only one theme park in Florida, this is the one.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure
If you are a fan of Harry Potter – and who isn’t? – then this is a must. The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride has rightfully taken its place as one of the best rides not only among the Florida theme parks but on the entire planet. For Potter fans, just the line to the ride, which winds through Hogwarts Castle, is a thrill. And that’s just one section of this amazing park that also features the Skull Island: Reign of Kong ride and superhero-themed restaurants and rides.
Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens is heaven on Earth for those who love to ride roller coasters, The park features more than a half-dozen coasters that would, on their own, be the main attraction at most other theme parks. They include Cobra’s Curse, Falcon’s Fury and Cheetah Hunt. On top of that, the park is also a massive zoo, with more than 300 animals to view, including gorillas, giraffes, and elephants. Take the sky ride and enjoy a bird’s eye view of this fabulous park.
SeaWorld
SeaWorld has started to shift its focus away from shows and more into educational attractions on creatures from the sea. It’s essentially one of the greatest zoos you will ever visit for seeing aquatic life, from dolphins to sea lions. It also offers a great roller coaster called Mako and a must-see festival for foodies with the Seven Seas Food Festival.
EPCOT
Disney’s EPCOT is cool for kids, but it’s even better for adults. The theme park features “lands” that focus on places such as England, Mexico, and Japan. There are fantastic choices for food from cultures around the world, as well as adult beverages. The nightly fireworks show is legendary. It’s the rare theme park that you might appreciate more the older you get.
Those are five of the best theme parks in Florida. You could easily argue for places such as Disney’s Animal Kingdom or Universal’s gigantic water park, Volcano Bay. The bottom line is, if you are looking to visit the best attractions on the planet, you can’t really go wrong in Florida.
