Last year, our family decided it was time to tick off a bucket-list dream – a holiday to Disney World Orlando! Twelve of us in total (6 adults, 6 children), bags packed and excitement levels sky-high, we set off from Manchester Airport with Aer Lingus.
Our home-from-home was the beautiful Encore Reunion Resort, which is an eight-bedroom villa that was nothing short of incredible. The resort had everything we could want: an on-site restaurant, a Starbucks for those early starts , a waterpark with multiple slides, a gym, and even an arcade to keep everyone entertained.
Day 1: Magic Kingdom
The park where fairytales come alive. Main Street, U.S.A. is the perfect first sight, with a nostalgic street lined with candy-coloured buildings and the smell of popcorn and cinnamon wafting from the bakery.
We started with classic rides like It’s a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Haunted Mansion before finding our “secret” viewing spot for the Happily Ever After fireworks, just over the bridge by the castle. The view was magical, and seeing the parade pass right in front of us was unforgettable.
Other must-sees in Magic Kingdom include Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain, and the Festival of Fantasy Parade.
Day 2: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Home to some of the most thrilling rides in Orlando, this park is split into themed “islands” you can wander between.
The VelociCoaster was a unanimous hit, with high speed, intense drops, and lots of screaming. The kids loved getting soaked on Jurassic Park River Adventure and exploring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. If you’re planning to go, don’t miss The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, The Hulk Coaster, and Poseidon’s Fury (a walk-through special effects show).
Plus, here’s a top tip – buy the refillable drink cups (about $18.99) , reactivating them for $11.99 at other Universal parks is a bargain. Just note there’s a 10-minute gap between refills.
Day 3: Discovery Cove
This was pure bliss, basically like stepping into a tropical paradise. Palm trees, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons made it feel worlds away from busy parks.
Swimming with dolphins (ours were Madison and Yoko ) was an emotional highlight. We also snorkelled in the Grand Reef among tropical fish and massive stingrays gliding silently below us. The Freshwater Oasis, with cheeky otters and marmosets, was another hit. All food and drinks are included, which was great – think tropical cocktails, fresh salads, and barbecue.
Day 4: Epic Universe
One of Orlando’s newest and most immersive parks. Expect cutting-edge rides and rich theming. Queues were long (some up to 2 hours), so the app was a lifesaver. We prioritised the Wizarding World and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. My eldest chose his interactive wand at the Ministry of Magic, and my youngest met Toothless in a meet-and-greet that made his trip. Other honourable mentions are the futuristic rides in the Celestial Park area and the food stalls with unique themed snacks.
Day 5: Typhoon Lagoon
This Disney water park is themed around a tropical storm that’s swept through a seaside town. The massive surf pool creates giant 6ft waves and you can hear the excited cheer every time it starts. We floated along the lazy river, tackled raft slides like Crush ‘n’ Gusher, and the kids spent ages in the Ketchakiddee Creek splash zone.
If you wear glasses, take them off before the surf pool – I learned the hard way!
Day 6: SeaWorld
I went expecting shows but was surprised by how many thrill rides there were. Pipeline, the new standing coaster, was fantastic. Mako and Kraken are must-rides for coaster lovers. We also enjoyed animal exhibits like the penguin habitat and the orca encounter. For younger kids, Sesame Street Land is a bright, interactive area.
Day 7: Epcot
Split into two halves, when you go to Epcot you can enjoy World Showcase and Future World. We wandered the World Showcase, “travelling” from France to Japan to Mexico in a matter of steps. Each pavilion is beautifully themed, with authentic food, music, and merchandise. The crepes from La Crêperie de Paris were divine, and the Rose & Crown Pub was a cosy taste of home. In Future World, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a high-energy coaster with an epic soundtrack.
Day 8: Hollywood Studios
This park is a haven for film fans. The Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge area feels like stepping onto another planet, you can even drink blue milk. My husband was thrilled by the full-scale Millennium Falcon.
The kids built lightsabers at Savi’s Workshop, and we ended the night with the dazzling Fantasmic show. I should say there are also lots of other rides that are well worth the visit including Tower of Terror, Slinky Dog Dash, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
Day 9: Volcano Bay
Universal’s water park is built around a towering volcano centerpiece. The TapuTapu wristbands were brilliant for reserving ride times, although these are being removed from the park. Favourites included Krakatau Aqua Coaster, the multi-person raft ride Honu ika Moana, and relaxing on Waturi Beach.
Day 10: Universal Studios
Here, movie magic comes to life. We loved Rip Ride Rockit and the Revenge of the Mummy coaster. The Mega Movie Parade brought out characters from Ghostbusters, Back to the Future, and Jaws. Don’t miss Diagon Alley for Harry Potter fans, the fire-breathing dragon above Gringotts is a show-stopper.
Day 11: Animal Kingdom
Lush jungle paths, towering trees, and the sound of exotic birds create a truly unique Disney park experience.
Avatar Flight of Passage was mind-blowing – the scents, movement, and visuals made me feel like I was flying. We also enjoyed Expedition Everest, the Kilimanjaro Safari (spotting giraffes, lions, and rhinos), and the Festival of the Lion King stage show.
Day 12: Chill Day… Sort Of
We enjoyed a lazy morning at the Encore waterpark, then headed to ICON Park to ride the Orlando Eye. The evening’s magic show at WonderWorks had us laughing nonstop and my eldest being pulled on stage was the cherry on top!
Day 13: Busch Gardens
A coaster lover’s paradise. Montu, SheiKra, and Cheetah Hunt are huge adrenaline rushes. For animal lovers, the Serengeti Safari is a must. Dippin’ Dots made for the perfect cool snack in the Florida heat.
My Top 10 Fun & Practical Tips for Orlando
- Hydrate like a pro – Refillable drink cups will save you a fortune.
- Free water – Water fountains are dotted around parks (and sometimes in ride queues).
- Cool down – Cooling towels and neck fans are game changers.
- Tackle your top rides first – Head straight for your must-do rides to avoid long waits later.
- Protect your phone – A waterproof lanyard keeps it safe (and lets you snap pool pics).
- Comfort first – Wear supportive shoes. You’ll walk a lot.
- Download the Disney app – Learn it before you go for maps, times, and reservations.
- Plan ahead – A travel agent can create a full itinerary so you don’t miss a thing.
- Pre-buy merch – Disney ears or character outfits are cheaper at home or at Walmart.
- Pack light for the parks – Some rides need lockers, and they’re not huge (and can cost extra).
Orlando really lived up to all of our expectations, it was such a magical holiday and one that had something for everyone. If you’re thinking about taking that dream family holiday – this is for you! And if you are worried about organising it all… You don’t need to, give me a call on 01527913346 or email Stacey@theholidayvillage.co.uk and I can do all the legwork for you.