Non-Disney Attractions Near Orlando Florida

Orlando Florida offers many attractions including the many theme parks and water parks operated by Disney World. In addition to these world class theme parks there are several other attractions, theme parks and water parks that are non-Disney. These non-Disney attractions are as large as the Disney World theme parks and offers entertainment to the entire family. If your vacation plans does not accommodate an entire day at the parks, you can always visit one of the many Orlando Florida half-day attractions.

Universal Studios Orlando

If you are in mood for Hollywood style entertainment while in Florida, head to Universal Studios where movies and television come live as shows, rides and attractions appropriate for all ages. Jaws, ET, "Back to the Future" ride are still popular with kids. Terminator 2: 3-D and Twister shows attract large crowds, but are worth the wait. Men in Black Alien Attack could have happy ending if you keep ZAPPing as many aliens as you can.

If you are in mood to get wet, Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges are a must. Ensure you packed an extra pair of socks though the Florida weather will dry the rest of clothing. Cut the wait times at most of the rides drastically and cover more of this large park by paying extra for the Express Pass. It's worth every penny.

Islands of Adventure, Orlando Florida

Islands of Adventure is an extension of Universal Studios, Orlando where you will be part of a journey of exploration of seven islands. Here you will experience some of the world's most advanced rides and shows with the latest being dubbed after the Harry Peter theme. Seuss Landing is where you'll find Cat In The Hat, hurtle around the Last Continent on 'Dueling Dragons' and a monster of a water ride in Jurassic Park. Toon Lagoon is full of high spirited cartoon fun and Marvel Super Hero Island is where you'll find Spider-Man (the best ride of its kind in the world) and the Incredible Hulk Coaster with its cheek chattering inverted turns and loops. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is where you will see long lines, so you may want to plan accordingly. Also, you will notice that The Incredible Hulk and Spiderman get long queues very quickly if you arrive in the morning hours. You may want to head to the rear of the park and start from the other end to cut-down on wait times.

Sea World Orlando Florida

Sea World at Orlando, Florida is mostly known for its animals and animal shows though the number of other attractions such as roller coasters is impressive. This Orlando, Florida's favorite theme park draws visitors back time and time again year after year to get them up close with their dolphins, sharks and even killer whales. Though a large park, typically you can cover the entire park in one day as long as you wear a good pair of shoes and shades. Touch and feed dolphins, pet some perfectly harmless sting rays or get face to face with Shamu and family. If it is too hot, head to Shamu's show and get in the first row where you will get wet and have fun at the same time. Journey to Atlantis is part water ride part roller coaster and Wild Arctic also features a somewhat bumpy ride en route to some very cool encounters.

A breakthrough theatrical spectacular that "unites sea and sky with visions of Broadway", Blue Horizons showcases majestic animals such as dolphins and false killer whales, as well as talented divers, trapeze artists and exotic birds such as macaws and Andean condors. The action takes place at the renovated Whale and Dolphin Theater, where visitors are sure to have a blast. If that is not enough to get you excited, take a ride up to the top of the Skytower. The views of the surrounding area, from Downtown Orlando to Lake Buena Vista are simply amazing!

Wet 'N Wild Orlando Florida

If you need a break from the Sunshine state's immense heat, head to Orlando, Florida's Wet 'N Wild to soak yourself with some cool waters. For the best experience and to avoid lines, you may want to enter the park very early in the morning when the lines are short. If you want to bond with your family, you can even setup a camp for the day. You can bring some refreshments in a cooler or explore the many options at the park including Bubba's BBQ, Manny's Pizza, and George's Famous Ice Cream.

Busch Gardens at Tampa Florida

Busch Gardens, Tampa Florida is about an hour drive from Orlando. It is a 335 acre theme park with an African flare and offers Zoo exhibits, Broadway quality shows, rollercoaster rides and plenty of other things for the whole family. This large park can be easily covered in one day with a bit of planning. This amusement park has many restaurants to cater to all tastes. They also let you bring bottles of water and snacks, so pack some to cut-down on food expenses.

The park is best known for an incredible collection of roller coasters like Montu, Kumba and the new wooden roller coaster Gwazi. The Tanganika Tidal Wave, is as the name suggests, a good way to cool off. Edge of Africa is a lot of fun or take an off-road adventure on Rhino Rally.

Bush Gardens is more than just an amusement park. It is also has many animal exhibits and kids love the animals and animal shows. Zoo keepers explain the exhibits, which is educational to kids. For those who are more into animals get up-close and personal with the animals by purchasing a back stage tour.

If you love animals and want to get more of them, our recommendation is that you purchase a season pass. This allows you to visit Sea World and Discovery Cove for free both of which are located in Orlando, Florida.

If you need a break from the Sunshine state's immense heat, head to Orlando, Florida's Wet 'N Wild to soak yourself with some cool waters. For the best experience and to avoid lines, you may want to enter the park very early in the morning when the lines are short. If you want to bond with your family, you can even setup a camp for the day. You can bring some refreshments in a cooler or explore the many options at the park including Bubba's BBQ, Manny's Pizza, and George's Famous Ice Cream.

Kennedy Space Center

The home of America's space program, Kennedy Space Center, Florida features a variety of exhibits, shows and tours which are both interesting and informative. An hour away from Orlando its very family friendly and whether you're of the Apollo generation or a Shuttle space cadet there's plenty to enjoy. Don't miss the stunning Imax movie or the Spaceport USA bus tour which gets you out to the observation gantry overlooking the biggest rockets you're ever likely to see - if you're not careful this could be the most fun you ever had in a science lesson!