Things to Do with a Teenager in Orlando, Florida

Orlando is filled with attractions geared for family fun. Disney World, Epcot, and Sea World are just a few of the most popular tourist places. However, if you have a teenager in your family, he or she may have more fun seeking thrill rides on roller coasters at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure Theme Park. The hours vary and are subject to change however, they are usually opened at 9:00 am everyday and close around 7 pm to 9 pm.

The park just opened, "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" which is sure to please any age. It's perfect for the whole family because there are also attractions rides available for younger children such as Cat in the Hat. You can even watch Shrek in 3-D.

Islands of Adventure is just one of the exciting things to do at this attraction site. For those traveling with older family members, they can visit Universal City Walk which is just outside the premise. Operating hours are from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., 365 days a year. They can enjoy a day walking around the stores, seeing a show, or viewing a movie.

There is an AMC Universal Cineplex 20 movie theater that offers stadium-style rocker seats and an 8 story IMAX screen. You can even purchase dinner with a movie that will be catered by one of the many restaurants available at Citywalk. There are over fifty restaurants in the area that the whole family can enjoy such as Hard Rock Cafe, Margaritaville, and the list goes on. In addition, there are concession stands for those who just want a quick bite to eat. For an interesting meal, eat at the Three Broomsticks tavern in the Hog's Head pub. Like Harry Potter, the family can enjoy Butterbeer or pumpkin juice.

There are also many water-parks available throughout the Orlando area to cool you off from the Florida humidity and heat. Typhoon Lagoon is perfect for teenagers and is the more highly recommended Disney's water park. It is a little more geared to older children, but also caters to families with smaller kids. This park offers nine water slides, a children's play area with pint-sized raft rides, pools, a lazy river, as well as a 6-foot wave pool called, "Surf Pool." For the daring, there is an actual reef that you can snorkel along with real sharks!

The park has food stands and is open from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM. There is an outdoor pool bar and picnic areas available for those who want to bring their lunch. Tickets for all attraction can be purchased on line.

For a truly unique family experience, it is well worth visiting the Discovery Cove. This park requires a reservation which can be made on-line. The cost is a little steep, which is around $200.00 per person (depending on the month and day) but it is an all-inclusive event.

In addition, it truly is an unforgettable day excursion in a tropical hideaway filled with pristine beaches, tropical fish, exotic birds, and water world of fun. You can float around on the tropical river or snorkel with sting rays and colorful fish. There are two packages available. One includes the option of swimming with dolphins. Either package will be sure to leave a lasting remark and something your teen will always remember.