Travelling with teenagers: Cool places to visit in Orlando

Orlando may be ripe with things to do for kids, but what about those picky teenagers who are only interested in seeing the cool places? Luckily, we’ve found five ways to entertain the whole family when travelling with teenagers in Orlando.

DisneyQuest 

DisneyQuest is an exhilarating five floors of digital amusement on Downtown Disney’s West Side, just across the way from House of Blues. Separated into four zones of fun, the destination offers something for both younger and older teens. The elevator (more affectionately known as the “Cybrolator”) takes you to the Ventureport, and from there you choose which zone to start exploring. If you’re into superheroes, start with the Score Zone. Ever dream of becoming a Disney animator? The Animation Academy is the place to do it. Open seven days a week, DisneyQuest draws the biggest crowds on rainy days and a couple hours before closing time.

WhirlyDome

WhirlyDome is home to the famous game of WhirlyBall. Never heard of it? Well, imagine driving a bumper car around while scooping and shooting a plastic ball into your opponents’ goal. The Dome is also home to Laser Frenzy and Laser Tag, self-serve bowling lanes, arcade games and billiard tables. And, if that’s not enough to keep even the most restless teen busy for hours, WhirlyDome is the proud owner of the first F1 Racing Simulator in North America. Located on International Drive, it’s easily accessible from Interstate 4 and surrounded by many of Orlando’s greatest attractions.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure 

With the addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in 2010, Islands of Adventure catapulted to the top of the must-do activities for teens when in Orlando. The Harry Potter and Forbidden Journey attraction is the next best thing to being in Hogwarts Castle itself. But Harry isn’t the only star of Universal’s show: Dr. Bruce Banner, a.k.a. “Hulk,” makes an appearance on The Incredible Hulk Coaster – launching riders from zero to 40 mph in two seconds! Universal’s Islands of Adventure is centrally located in Universal Orlando Resort.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios stands out as one of the best places in town for teens. Home to the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, the park will have teens in for the thrill of their lives when boarding this ride and careening through the darkness. Just around the corner, more excitement awaits with The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Travel a mere 13 storeys up before freefalling unexpectedly back down – like the television series of the same name, the Tower of Terror is not for the faint of heart. Located in the Walt Disney World Resort, the park is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Written by Kim Taylor