Orlando is a world-famous destination for theme park lovers and families. Home to Walt Disney World, and Universal Studios, the city offers magical experiences across its multiple parks, from thrilling rides to enchanting parades. We visited all the Disney parks several times when our kids were 6–15 years old and returned to Universal Studios multiple times after The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened at Islands of Adventure in 2010.
- Magic Kingdom
- Epcot Center
- MGM Studios (Renamed Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
- Animal Kingdom
- Universal Studios
Note: All photos were taken between 1994 and 2010. MGM Studios has since been renamed Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and many of the shows, themes, rides, and buildings have changed since our last visit.
Magic Kingdom – is especially popular with kids ages 4–12. Centered around the iconic Cinderella Castle, the park brings classic Disney fairy tales to life. Beloved characters like Mickey, Minnie, and other Disney favorites roam the park and are always ready for photos. From dazzling parades to nightly fireworks that light up the sky, Magic Kingdom delivers pure Disney magic for visitors of all ages.
Disney MGM Studios (now Disney’s Hollywood Studios) — Opened in 1989 as Disney MGM Studios, the park was renamed Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2008 to reflect its shift from a behind-the-scenes studio tour to a celebration of modern entertainment, music, TV, and movies. We visited the park in 1994 and enjoyed several of the themed shows during its early years.
in 1994 when we visited, the popular Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) were featured, with a popular street show in the “Streets of America” area.
Epcot Center – Opened in 1982, EPCOT is dedicated to honoring human achievements in the area of technological innovation and international culture. Divided into two main areas—World Showcase and World Celebration/World Nature/World Discovery – it offers everything from futuristic attractions to immersive experiences representing countries around the globe. Visitors can sample international cuisine, explore innovative exhibits, and enjoy iconic attractions like Spaceship Earth.
Animal Kingdom – Opened in 1998, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is known for its focus on animal conservation, immersive lands like Pandora – The World of Avatar, thrilling rides, safari adventures, live shows, and the iconic Tree of Life, offering entertainment for all ages.
The Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a 145-foot baobab-inspired sculpture featuring over 8,000 branches and more than 100,000 artificial leaves. Its trunk and roots display 337 carvings of both existing and extinct animals. Inside its base is a 428-seat theater, now home to the 3D film Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
Universal Studios – This movie-themed park which opened in 1990, allows visitors to step into the worlds of their favorite films and TV shows. From thrilling rides and immersive sets to live shows and character encounters, the park brings blockbuster stories to life. We visited this place a couple of times, the last time in 2010 when The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened for visitors.
