Orlando Adventures: Theme Parks, Wildlife, and Unforgettable Experiences

Orlando is known for its endless entertainment options, and our trip proved just how much there is to see and do. From thrilling theme parks to relaxing wildlife experiences, the city offered a great mix of excitement and downtime.

We spent time at Universal Studios, including a visit to Epic Universe. Because the park was still fairly new at the time, there were quite a few mishaps during our visit. Several rides closed unexpectedly, either due to maintenance issues or Florida’s unpredictable summer rain. At that time, three rides did not accept Universal Express passes, although that policy has since changed. While the park itself was impressive, the operational challenges did affect the overall flow of the day.

One strong recommendation we have is to purchase Universal Express passes for the theme parks. They save a significant amount of time waiting in lines and are especially helpful during the summer months when the heat can be intense. Being able to move through the parks more efficiently made a noticeable difference in our experience.

The true highlight of our Orlando trip was Discovery Cove. Swimming with dolphins was an unforgettable experience, and the all-inclusive nature of the park made the day feel both special and relaxing. Meals and snacks were included, which was a huge perk and allowed us to focus entirely on enjoying the experience without worrying about extra costs.

Another added bonus of purchasing Discovery Cove passes was that admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica was included. We chose to visit SeaWorld and found ourselves enjoying it more than expected. The shows and wildlife exhibits stood out, offering a nice balance to the high-energy theme park days and giving us the chance to slow down and appreciate the animals and educational aspects of the park.

Overall, Orlando delivered a fun and varied travel experience. Despite a few hiccups at Universal due to the newness of Epic Universe, there were plenty of memorable moments throughout the trip. With so many options—from theme parks to wildlife encounters—Orlando offers something for everyone, and each part of our visit was enjoyable in its own way.