Walt Disney World Resort
Although Disney has a well-deserved reputation for taking a manicured, artificial approach to nature (as do almost all theme park resorts), the expansive nature of the park still provides plenty of opportunities for exploring nature. Of the individual theme parks, Disney's Animal Kingdom is actually very well-suited to nature enthusiasts, as there are several self-guided hiking trails throughout the park: Pangani Forest Exploration (Africa themed), Maharajah Jungle Trek (Asia themed), Cretaceous Trail (prehistoric themed), and Habitat Habit (miscellaneous/kid-oriented). There are also Kids Discovery Clubs that offer a variety of hands-on experiences. Although the Animal Kingdom is probably the only Disney destination geared toward outdoor activities, many resorts on Disney premises have their own hiking and biking trails.
Walt Disney World Resort
World Drive
Orlando FL 32836
407-939-6244
disneyworld.disney.go.com/
Universal Studios Orlando Resort
Universal Studios Orlando is much smaller than Disney World, and as such, the entire grounds (three resorts, two theme parks, and a shopping/entertainment district) are connected by a series of hiking trails, by which you can reach anywhere on the resort property. All three hotels-Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel, or The Royal Pacific-offer maps of the grounds which show loops of .45, 1.3, or 3 miles. In addition, there are several pool and beach areas, including a 260-foot waterslide at the Hard Rock Hotel. There is also an outdoor playground, Fievel's Playland, inside the Universal Studios Florida Theme Park, where kids can climb around giant props based on the Fievel Mouse animated films.
Universal Studios Florida
6000 Universal Blvd.
Orlando FL 32819
407-363-8000
Universalorlando.com
SeaWorld Orlando
Out of all the theme parks in Orlando, SeaWorld is probably most geared toward nature enthusiasts because of its water-themed attractions. Although there are several rides and roller coasters on the grounds, many of the main attractions involve up-close encounters with marine wildlife such as whales and dolphins.
SeaWorld Orlando offers several adventure camps for kids: sleepovers, day camps, and resident (multi-night sleepaway) camps are available to kids in grades 2 and up.
SeaWorld Adventure Park
Orlando FL 32821
407-370-2617
seaworld.com/orlando
Discovery Cove
Across the street from SeaWorld Orlando is Discovery Cove, a recreation of a tropical habitat where guests can explore a variety of aquatic activities. Much of the park is beach property encircling several lagoons and waterways that provide the park's main features. Guests can swim with dolphins or a tropical reef with live sting rays and tropical fish. There is also a "wind-away river" where, according to the official website, guests can float along a "scenic tropical river."
Discovery Cove
6000 Discovery Cove Way
Orlando FL 32821
877-434-7268
discoverycove.com
