Why Orlando Keeps Pulling Us Back In
Guest blogger and award‑winning journalist Miriam Porter shares why her family keeps coming back to Orlando.
If you think one trip can cover all of Orlando, think again. New attractions emerge every season, and each time my son Noah and I return, there’s a fresh adventure waiting.
As Noah approaches adolescence, we can tackle experiences that were out of reach when he was a toddler. That’s one of Orlando’s greatest strengths—there is literally something for every age group.
Below are a few of our favorites and the reasons we can’t resist a repeat visit.
Although I was nervous stepping into the motion‑simulated ride that transported us to another world, Noah’s enthusiasm kept me from backing out. (Participants must be at least 44 inches tall.)
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This epic 3D journey was a highlight of our trip and truly inspiring. With Toy Story Land now open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, it’s at the top of our list for next time.
Universal’s Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort
We waited until Noah was a stronger swimmer to experience the exhilarating rides at Universal’s Volcano Bay together. While he thrives on heart‑pounding slides, I prefer the gentle flow of the Lazy River and the beach‑style wave pool.
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Volcano Bay’s TapuTapu wristband lets you skip the virtual line while you swim, float, or soak up the sun—perfect for keeping the day moving for both of us.
Explore International Drive
Day or night, International Drive (I‑Drive) offers endless entertainment for kids and adults alike. The area has expanded with new attractions, so you can visit annually and still discover something new.
We first visited the iconic The Wheel at ICON Park®—the tallest observation wheel on the U.S. east coast at 400 ft. The view from the top is unforgettable, and the I‑Ride Trolley makes hopping between venues effortless.
Other highlights include I‑Drive NASCAR, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, WonderWorks at Pointe Orlando, and Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf.
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Disney Springs® at Night
Noah and I always end our visits with a nighttime stroll through Disney Springs®. Each evening offers a new vibe—from live music and water‑side walks to themed retail shops. When Noah was younger, we spent hours inside The LEGO® Store and I bought him his first glowing lightsaber at Star Wars Galactic Outpost.
Arrive hungry: Disney Springs’ restaurants are a highlight. Our favorite was Morimoto Asia, where we savored pan‑Asian dishes grilled to perfection. Younger kids love the Marketplace Carousel and Train Ride, while the Aerophile balloon provides a 400‑ft aerial view.
Additional entertainment includes the House of Blues, Exposition Park, Marketplace Stage, and the AMC Dine‑In Disney Springs 24 movie theater—plus the upcoming NBA Experience slated for summer 2019.
Road Trip to Winter Park
About 20 minutes north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park offers a charming, small‑town feel that contrasts with the city’s bustle. The mini train station, 70 green parks, and tree‑lined streets make for a delightful day out.
We enjoyed coffee at a local café, snacked on cookies from Ethos Vegan Kitchen, and took the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour—gliding past Lake Osceola’s narrow canals and moss‑laden trees.
Orlando Science Center
For families looking to blend learning with fun, the Orlando Science Center is a must‑visit. Its interactive exhibits appeal to all ages, especially younger children.
Highlights include KidsTown (for children up to 7), the Kinetic Zone, The Hive makerspace, and Fusion—a rotating STEAM gallery that keeps the experience fresh.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a back‑to‑nature escape just 25 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando. With 13 miles of trails for biking, hiking, and picnicking, the park is ideal for families who love the outdoors.
We rented bright blue kayaks and paddled past trees, marshes, wetlands, turtles, fish, lizards, and other wildlife. The calm water is perfect for older kids who can handle a paddle, and the scenery is simply breathtaking.
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