When most people think of Orlando, they think of Disney World. There is a good reason for this: Walt Disney started it all with the Magic Kingdom. With four theme parks, Disney is still the biggest draw, but there are many other Orlando attractions for your family to enjoy. Consider spending some of your trip enjoying the smaller attractions.

Water Parks

The Florida sun is hot, especially in the summer. Standing in line for rides at the parks is exhausting in the heat. Plan one day of your vacation at a water park to give everyone a chance to cool off. The sun is strong in Florida, so be sure to pack a good sunscreen. Look for a water proof one since you will be spending your day getting wet. There are three large water parks in the Orlando area.

Two of the three main water parks in Orlando are Disney owned: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Blizzard Beach is a 66 acre park with a wide variety of rides and slides. There is something for the thrill seeking and more laid back members of the family. Tikes Peak is a smaller area with things for the younger kids in the family to enjoy.

Typhoon Lagoon has a large number of attractions including a water coaster. There are slides and tube rides for every comfort level. The white water rafting ride is great for older kids and adults. There is an area with small slides and fountains for younger children. Try out the snorkel adventure at shark reef. Here you will see a variety of colorful water creatures.

Wet n Wild is the one park not owned by Disney. This park is great for all ages. The Beast and Disco rides are great for older kids and adults. The Wake Zone has tubing and boarding on a half mile long lake. Other popular attractions include the lazy river and wave pool. There are kiddie pools for the smallest members of the family.

Smaller Orlando Attractions

Gatorland is the alligator capital of the world. This place has grown to be one of the more popular small Orlando attractions over the years. It is a wild life preserve and park. At Gatorland, you will see a variety of animals including alligators, crocodiles and birds in the aviary. There is a petting zoo here as well. Other attractions include a gator wrestling exhibition, jungle crocs of the world, up close encounters and shows.

Fantasy of Flight has an aviation theme. There are a variety of displays from World War I and World War II. While you are here, you can tour the restoration shop. Each day there is a presentation and air show around the aircraft of the day. A different air craft is chosen each day. There are also hot air balloon rides and biplane rides available at the park.

If you are traveling with young children, visit Green Meadows Petting Farm. You do not need much time to do this one, about two hours is plenty of time. Your kids will love meeting the chickens, goats, sheep, pigs, ducks and horses that live on the farm. Each guest gets a chance to milk a cow. There are also pony rides, a train and hay ride. This is a great place for the little ones to relax and recuperate after a few days running around the big parks.