After we have come back from a family holiday, I am always looking to plan the next trip away. We are looking into going away around Christmas and New Year time as it is our 10th Wedding Anniversary at the beginning of January. So our mind turns to the places that are warm during that time. One place that keeps springing to mind is Florida. While being down by the Keys would be amazing, there is nothing quite like Orlando. For families, it really is one of the best places to go to.

We went to Orlando last year, and the kids were really at an age where they could enjoy the parks properly, as well as plenty of other attractions. So if you’re planning a family trip, then here are some of the many reasons why Orlando ticks all of the boxes

Good Climate

If you want to travel to somewhere that has warm weather all year round, then Orlando is a great choice. Even the winter months of December, January, and February, the average temperature is still above 20°. The weather in Florida is quite humid, so makes it feel warmer too. There can be storms around September time, but they are usually in the afternoon, and are quite short lived (we went end of Aug/beginning of Sept back in 2013). Generally, Orlando’s weather is mild and pleasant, attracting many tourists. 

Great Food

Though Orlando is hardly a fine dining experience, unless you want it to be, of course, it is a place that is great for eating out as families. Fussy eaters? No problem. You’ll find some of the favourite chains that you know, as well as plenty of others. There is so much choice! My ultimate place is The Cheesecake Factory at the Mall at Millenia, in Orlando. Got to mention the frozen butterbeer at Universal Studios too – a must (and much nicer than the drink version)!

What’s great is that the food comes with exceptional service in all the restaurants we dined in. The staff was attentive and since we were travelling with kids, they provided a little something to entertain them while waiting for their food. They have crayons and colouring books as well as interesting reading materials that kids will enjoy.  The kids loved the meal specially created for them. We didn’t have to force them to eat the food as there’s a special menu that lists food that they love like pizza and burgers made a little healthier and delectable salads that even the pickiest eater will relish.

Oh

Amazing Theme Parks

You can go to Orlando and not visit the theme parks, but it seems like a waste when there are so many world class ones right on your doorstep. The Disney parks are fab, but my favourite has got to be Universal Studios, especially with the new addition of Diagon Alley. There are places like the Space Centre, SeaWorld, Legoland and waterparks all close by too.

You may also want to check out this guide to the best Orlando resorts with on-site water parks.  It details all the amenities of 10 of the best resorts with water parks in this amazing city. With this guide, you can make your vacation with your family a fun-filled experience and a truly memorable one. 

Family-Friendly

If you want somewhere that is easy to visit with little ones, then Orlando ticks the boxes. Restaurants and theme parks all cater for families, as well as just the cars and roads – could the roads be any wider and car parking spaces any easier to park in? They expect lots of people to be visiting with children, and they really do cater for it. Even the airport is Disneyfied to welcome you as soon as you arrive.

Orlando is always ready to welcome a multitude of families. The warm and inviting vibe is one of the things the city is known for.  Being family-friendly is perhaps the top reason people keep coming back to ‘O-Town’ year after year. 

Something For Everyone

There really is something for everyone in Orlando. From a Marriott hotel on every corner with swimming pools and golf courses, to national parks, water sports, animal parks, beaches, theme parks, and discount malls. So families of all ages can find something that they enjoy in Orlando.

If you’re interested in a trip to Orlando, then check out some of these stats below. I can totally believe it about the cost of the Harry Potter Diagon Alley at Universal Studios – it is really incredible.

Have you ever been to Orlando before? Hope you found these facts interesting – is there anything that surprised you? It would be great to hear what you think.

*collaborative post