Spring Break Orlando – Your 2024 Complete Guide

The land of citrus and sun has long been a go-to getaway for harried families looking to squeeze in some serious Spring Break fun.

Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine State, spring break in Orlando offers up a Central Florida oasis of rugged wilderness, white sand beaches, and bustling theme parks.

From wonderful Walt Disney World Resort outings to partying it up at Universal’s Orlando Resort Mardi Gras, read on to discover everything you need to know about Spring Break in Orlando Florida.

Located just a short flight, or a day’s drive from most major United States cities, it is no wonder Orlando is widely considered one of the most popular spring break spots in Florida.

Whether you are kicking off your vacation early and wondering what things to do in Orlando in February, or wish to embrace the cosmopolitan class of downtown Orlando, our experts have got it covered.

By spring, kids and adults alike will be clamoring for O-town’s outstanding outdoor activities, water park splashdowns, and more.

So scream your lungs out on Space Mountain, cast a spell with Harry and Hermoine, or find some nature-inspired bliss paddling in Wekiwa Springs.

Orlando During Spring Weather

Wondering if you’ll be able to enjoy multiple dips in various resort pools and lounge in your hotel’s lazy river? Spring Orlando weather is the stuff spring break dreams are made of. Visitors to the City Beautiful will be greeted by near-perfect temperatures of the mid to high seventies during the day and high 50s at night.

By April, things will be even warmer, ensuring you can swim some laps in your sparkling pool, or tour Walt Disney World without sweating off your SPF.

Is it busy in Orlando in March?

If you’re planning a trip to Orlando in March, it’s wise to anticipate a substantial level of activity. Crowds will stay in the moderate-to-high zone for most of March but start decreasing in early April.  So, while your spring vacation might be lively and bustling, you can also expect things to wind down significantly as the month comes to a close.

Lake Eola Downtown Orlando Florida

Is Orlando Crowded during Spring Break?

Well, to put it simply, yes, it does, and this influx of spring breakers often means the parks are extra crowded. From the thrilling roller coasters of Universal Studios to the magical realms of Disney World, expect to see masses of tourists curiously exploring and indulging in the wonders these amusement parks offer. During spring break, one can expect longer wait times at popular attractions due to the swell of visitors. The city buzzes with excitement and energy, but be prepared – the parks are extra crowded.

Do college kids go to Orlando for Spring Break?

You bet they do! From theme parks to wild nightlife, Orlando has it all. Often hailed as the ultimate playground, the city is a hotspot for students wanting to relax and celebrate their freedom from academic pressures. With its incredible variety of entertainment options, from pulse-racing roller coasters to lively clubs, Orlando presents a perfect mix of fun and excitement that’s irresistible to college students during spring break.

Spring Break 2024 – Orlando Hotels

We’re not going to lie, half the fun of an Orlando Florida spring break is choosing which resort to stay at. One of our favorite things to do in Orlando in February and beyond is to treat ourselves to a five-star hotel stay.

Whether you are seeking a luxury experience complete with full-service amenities and an onsite spa or a kid-friendly nirvana with a decked-out lazy river pool and water slide, there are endless options to choose from.

Explore our dazzling array of Orlando Hotels and Resorts, or check out our top-tier favorite Orlando lodgings below:

Hilton Orlando

Convenience vs. comfort. Why choose one when you can have both? The Hilton Orlando is an upscale Central Floridian paradise set on over 26 lush acres just minutes from every major theme park.

Swim in the aquamarine waters of the pool, float carefree down the lazy river, or keep working on those gains in the 24-hour fitness center. 

Breathe easy knowing all the rooms are certified PURE Allergy Friendly and have been scrubbed of the most common irritants and allergens. 

Larger families can spread out in style when they book a suite, which features a living room, dining room table for eight, a workstation, kitchenette, and full bath.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs® Resort Area

Dreaming of dining with Mickey? Stay just a hop, skip, and jump away from Disney Springs when you book your lodgings at the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area. 

Enjoy all of the creature comforts of home and then some as you splash around in their aquatic playground, soothe tired muscles in the whirlpool spa, or cheers with an ice-cold mojito at the poolside bar.

exterior of Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista with plants in foreground during sunset in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area via Facebook

Located within walking distance of the buzzing Disney Springs area, families will be able to keep the little ones endlessly entertained with onsite Disney Character Breakfasts and the ingenious Children’s program. 

Margaritaville Resort Orlando

Party it up like the king of the Parrotheads himself, Jimmy Buffet, when you spend a tequila-soaked weekend at the Margaritaville Resort Orlando.

Embrace island life when you stay at this vibrant tropical treasure of relaxation and good times. Soak in the rays by the expansive lagoon pools, delight in nightly entertainment, and take advantage of the complimentary theme park transportation.

Related Post: Which is Better: Universal Studios Orlando or Disney World?

Sleep between deluxe linens, sip away your welcome cocktail, and perhaps even book yourself in for a luxurious massage at the St. Somewhere Spa while the kiddos play the day away at the Parakeet’s Kid’s Club. 

Aerial view of the bright blue pool at Margaritaville Resort Orlando in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Margaritaville Resort Orlando via Facebook

The Bear’s Den Resort Orlando

Did you even Spring Break in Orlando if you didn’t hit the links? Perfect that swing and aim for that elusive hole in one when you stay at the Bear’s Den Resort Orlando

Opulence, nature, and stunning golf facilities are what’s on deck when you reserve your own slice of putting green heaven at the first Jack Nicklaus vacation resort in the world.

Just a short drive from all of the most beloved Orlando attractions, the Bear’s Den provides privacy, luxury, and world-class resort amenities for families of all sizes.

Drag those clubs out of storage as you get ready to play on three exclusive golf courses, each designed by a renowned golfing legend. After your 18 holes, be sure to take some time on their private putting green. Or, wind down with a leisurely game of lawn bowling. 

Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek

A hidden gem that is just begging to be discovered, the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort in Bonnet Creek is a secluded nirvana of Disney diversion.

This highly rated resort features 62 acres of natural beauty, world-class amenities, and scenic views.

Savor picturesque lake scenery as you enjoy a pina colada or ice-cold beer at the Back Bay Bar and Grill, or have some watery fun as you cruise down their two lazy rivers.

Sleep easy in the Mediterranean-style rooms furnished with White Stone Quartz tabletops and massaging showerheads, and wake up refreshed and ready to conquer your Walt Disney World Resort itinerary.

aerial view of JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes via Facebook

JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek

Family-friendly and luxurious are not often muttered in the same sentence, but the JW Marriott Orlando in Bonnet Creek is changing that.

Modern, upscale, and endlessly elegant, the JW Marriot is a beacon of first-rate hospitality in Orlando. Featuring an almost 10,000 square foot spa, nightly viewings of Disney fireworks, and an opulent resort pool with a splash pad, a stay here is guaranteed to delight adults and kids alike.

Tiny tykes can get their creativity flowing with arts and crafts at the Kid’s club while mom and dad indulge in a much-needed happy hour at the Sear + Sea Lobby Bar.

Larger groups will love the hotel’s brand new collection of Family suites which can sleep up to nine and include vibrant colors, loft beds, and kid-approved touches such as chalkboard walls, special book nooks, and even a special “sleepy snack” in-room menu.

Orlando Spring Break 2024 Activities

Spotting gentle marine mammals in their natural environment, jaw-dropping Jurassic Park thrills, and lots of Mardi Gras madness. Adults, kiddies, couples, and everyone in between will find no shortage of things to do during spring break in Orlando.

Wekiwa Springs

Spring-fed crystal clear waters, verdant greenery, and a diverse wildlife population have drawn outdoor enthusiasts to Wekiwa Springs since the mid 19th century.

Unknown to many visitors, this incredible state park is a mere 30 minutes from downtown Orlando and provides a welcome reprieve from the commotion of the major theme park resorts.

Hike, swim, kayak, and canoe to your heart’s content as you traverse over 13 miles of trails. The equestrian inclined can even horseback ride, or for a fully immersive wilderness experience, spend the night under the stars and camp at Wekiwa! 

Keep your eyes peeled, as many of Florida’s most endemic species can be spotted here, including White-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, bobcats, and black bears.

Pro Tip: Pack up your snorkel gear and plan for an afternoon picnic, as you’ll want to soak in every last drop of the Spring’s refreshing 72-degree year-round waters. 

Someone kayaking through Wekiwa Springs state park during beautiful summer day near Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Dave Cannon via Facebook

Blue Spring State Park

Cute and cuddly, it’s hard to believe that Florida’s ‘sea cows’ were once confused for sultry sirens. However, blue Spring State Park is a certified manatee oasis located less than an hour’s drive from Orlando.

Mother manatees and their calves congregate here to revel in the constant 72-degree spring water in the colder winter months. Visitors of all ages are drawn to Blue Springs State Park as their unique boardwalk allows unobstructed visibility of the manatees playing, frolicking, and nursing.

After witnessing hundreds of manatees huddling together, strap on those hiking boots and tackle one of the many trails weaving through the St. Johns River, or pack those binoculars and observe the abundant birdlife in the spring run.

**Please note that during the Spring months, all water activities will be closed on the Spring run due to the manatee season. 

close up of manatees underwater with woman in swimsuit in background standing
photo credit: VISIT FLORIDA via Facebook

Orlando Wetlands Park

Christmas comes early for Spring Breakers when they seek a lush refuge in Orlando Wetlands Park, located just 40 minutes east of Orlando in the charming town of Christmas.

Superior opportunities for birding abound here, as well as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and nature photography. Grab a wildlife guide or request a tour of the park to learn all about how this man-made preserve was once a treatment center for reclaimed wastewater.

Amateur photogs should have their camera at the ready as the park’s over 1,600 acres of wetlands contain over 220 species of birds and 63 butterfly varieties.

Those looking to work off those Spring Break margaritas should hit the trails, as the Orlando Wetlands Park serves up many diverse routes ranging from a leisurely 2.5 miles to a more challenging 3.9-mile ride or hike. 

Beautiful Orlando Beaches

Keep your spring break as classic as can be when you conquer one of the best things to do for spring break in Florida. Stock up on sunscreen and break out that speedo or bikini, when you spend hours enjoying the sandy salty shores of the Sunshine State.

While not as famous as the sizzling shores of Miami, Orlando’s beaches provide plenty of fun in the sun just the same. 

Cocoa Beach 

Cocoa Beach is a quintessential sun-soaked beach town. A mere hour’s drive from Orlando, and boasting postcard-perfect wide sand beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing and learning to surf. Be sure to check out the legendary Ron Jon Surf shop located here. Or, book a deep-sea fishing or kayaking eco-tour adventure. 

Cocoa Beach Florida Pier
Cocoa Beach, Florida, USA at the pier.

Daytona Beach

In February, a spring break mecca located on Florida’s Atlantic coast is known for hosting the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. But, come March, this area’s beaches, boardwalks, and water parks are swarmed with feisty college students. Seeking to get their dance and drink on.

Cape Canaveral

Also known as part of the ‘Space Coast,’ Cape Canaveral contains many secluded and intimate natural beaches and dunes. Notably, the Canaveral National Seashore and the Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area.

For some fantastic views and the chance to wave ‘bon voyage’ to cruise ships, head to Port Canaveral’s Jetty Park. You can watch 4,000-passenger cruise and cargo ships sail by. 

Orlando Theme Parks

Walt Disney World Resort

The most magical place on earth hardly needs any introduction. For half a century, Mickey, Minnie, and the spirit of imagination have been delighting children from all over the world.

Whether you and your tiny tykes choose to jam out with the Country Bears in the Magic Kingdom. Or, join the resistance in Star Wars: Galaxy Edge. You will never forget the memories of your Disney adventure.

Besides blooming flowers and near balmy weather. Springtime brings special events, festivals, and happenings to everyone’s favorite Disney Parks:

View of space mountain at night with green and blue light on and clouds in the sky at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Disney via Facebook

Epcot International Flower Garden Festival

Food, and flora, oh my! Revel in the bright flavors and scents of springtime when you check out Epcot’s International Flower Garden Festival. This revelatory explosion of brilliant gardens, Disney character-shaped topiaries, and specialty dishes. This is one seasonal celebration that can’t be missed.

Get your groove on with some of the biggest names in music at the Garden Rocks Concert Series, or embark on an international food tour with Outdoor Kitchens. Sip sublime artisanal ciders, chow down on tasty morsels from Morocco to Mexico, or embark on a springtime scavenger hunt with Spike the Bee.

Mickey, Pluto, and Goofy Garden Sculptures at Disney's Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival - Orlando, Florida, USADisney’s Typhoon Lagoon

Pull on those swim trunks and get ready to hang ten at the largest wave pool in North America. Fearless youngsters will be chomping at the bit to slip and slide down the carousing Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster. They will get to choose between three fruit-themed chutes.

While littler folks will have a blast on the pint-size slides, cannons, and shallow pools of Ketchakiddee Creek. Want even more aquatic excitement? Learn how to ride the gnarliest waves when you book a private surf session

After enjoying the tropical thrills of Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, consider a frosty adventure at Disney’s Blizzard Beach, a ski resort-themed water park where you can plunge down icy slides and relax on a snowy lazy river.

Disney Springs

Spread the Disney love around with an entertainment-packed afternoon at Disney Springs. Take a break from the twists and turns of raging roller coasters and settle in for retail therapy. Or search out delicious eats, matinees of cirque du Soleil, and more.

Catch a blockbuster screening and gourmet burger at the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theater. Or, work on your spare game at the upscale Splitsville Luxury Lanes bowling alley. 

Close up of a family shopping at Disney Springs on a sunny day in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Disney Springs via Facebook

Universal Orlando Resort

A universe of cinematic entertainment and comic book-based thrills awaits you at Universal Orlando Resort. Feel the action of the silver screen in real life as you flee evil mummies and cause mischief with those Minions. Or, try to evade the feisty dragons as you escape Gringotts with Harry.

Got a dino-sized desire for some serious adrenaline? Be sure to tackle the brand new apex predator of roller coasters, the Jurassic World VelociCoaster in Islands of Adventure. 

Make the most of your Spring Break with characters like Shrek, Spiderman, and more when you visit all three parks.

Once your blood pressure has returned to normal, squeeze in a reprieve from the rides when you hit up Universal CityWalk. This epicenter of retail, restaurants, and more serves up more than just flavor. Stock up on stylish Gryffindor or Hufflepuff hoodies, or spoil your favorite Marvel fan with a commemorative mug or fanny pack.

After hours of browsing, refuel with mouthwatering Jamaican eats or dive straight into a sugar rush with a Bacon Maple bar from Voodoo Doughnut.

Related Post: Universal Studios vs. Islands of Adventure: An Inside Look at Universal Orlando’s Theme Parks

Keep the fun flowing when you stick around for Universal’s special springtime events, festivals, and happenings, including:

Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster at Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios Orlando - Orlando, FL USA
photo credit: Consulado Geral EUA / US Consulate – Rio via Facebook

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras

Glittering parades, mouth-watering Bayou eats, and rockin live music mean it must be Mardi Gras time at Universal! Enjoy plenty of New Orleans flavor, fun, and dazzling beats when you visit the park.
Prime your very own ‘krewe’ for sparkling costumes, traditional floats, and more beads than you can handle. This year embrace international inspiration, as Universal’s Bayou festivities will pay homage to Carnaval celebrations from around the world.

Feast your eyes on traditional floats, plus six new eccentric creations straight from New Orleans. Party-goers can witness the magic of a mardi gras parade come to life through gear, themed treats, and creative sketches.

Taste traditional dishes such as beignets, crawfish boil, and shrimp ceviche tostada. Meanwhile, get down to performers like the Goo Goo Dolls, WILLOW, 3 Doors Down, and Sean Paul. Don’t forget that the party continues at Universal’s CityWalk with plenty of specially-themed food and drink.

man wearing purple green and gold mardi gras costume at Universal's Spirit of New Orleans Mardi Gras Bash in Orlando, Florida, USAUniversal’s Volcano Bay

Universal’s Volcano Bay is a five-star splash zone with private cabanas, a winding river, and an epic wave pool. Whisk yourself away for a day of tropical-themed watery fun when you soak in the lapping surf at Waturi Beach. Or, get positively drenched on the daring canoe Krakatau Aqua Coaster.

Then, take a mini-break from all of the multi-person water slides to hole up in your private family suite cabana. Meanwhile, indulge in the sensational tastes of the South Pacific. 

SeaWorld

Equal parts education and thrills, SeaWorld Orlando, is a Spring Break aquatic experience like no other. 

Travel to the depths of the ocean and even swim with dolphins as you explore the friendly bottlenose dolphins of the cove at SeaWorld. Or, come face to face with the predators of the sea in one of the world’s largest underwater viewing tunnels.

Clear out your schedule to catch an all-new live animal presentation show on California Sea Lions and Asian small-clawed otters. Or, test your bravery on the mighty Manta coaster.

Smaller SeaWorld visitors can cruise around Elmo’s Choo Choo Train. Similarly, true adrenaline junkies won’t want to miss the grand opening of the brand new Ice Breaker Coaster in mid-February. Boldly featuring the steepest vertical drop in Florida.

Boy petting Dolphin at Seaworld

For even more watery shenanigans, combine your SeaWorld visit with a trip to Aquatica Orlando. Voted America’s number one waterpark, this explosion of seaworthy attractions, rides, and thrills is sure to capture your attention.

Bounce between 43 water slides, rivers, and lagoons as you debate which aquatic rush to conquer next. Surf like a pro on the KareKare Curl. Or, satisfy your need for speed on the lightning-fast Tassie’s Twisters. 

More than just aquariums and coasters, SeaWorld is also serving up culture and a culinary-packed festival circuit this Spring. Stay tuned and be sure to enjoy:

  • SeaWorld Seven Seas Food Festival – try delectable craft beers tantalizing bites of international specialties as you chow down at this eclectic food festival.
  • SeaWorld Mardi Gras – bunches of beads live music entertainment, and special cocktails promise to bring that Bayou spirit front and center at this limited-time event held in conjunction with the Seven Seas Food Festival. 
  • St. Patrick’s Day Celebration – get that green clean and ready to go, as you’ll want to represent all things from the Emerald Isle at this celebration of Irish epic proportions. 

Legoland

Calling all budding builders! Brace yourself for a Spring Break of bricktacular excitement when you hightail it to the 150 acres of awesome known as the Legoland Florida Resort.

Chock full of over 50 kid-friendly rides, shows, and attractions this plastic paradise is the place to be! Swerve through the curves and turns of the jungle on the wooden Coastersaurus. Then, hang out with Emmet and his friends in his Super Suite. Or, test your fighting skills as you vanquish baddies on Ninjago: The Ride.

There are countless ways to achieve your Lego fantasies. From immersive 4-D movie experiences to catching some rays in the wave pool.

Fans of everyone’s beloved pig will be positively tickled pink to hear that the World’s First Peppa Pig Theme Park is ready and raring to go.

Related Post: Insider’s Guide to LEGOLAND® Florida

Located steps away from Legoland, this rosy-colored oasis of merriment was explicitly designed for miniature piggies. It features many interactive rides, live shows, themed play areas, and more!

Close up of children in clear LEGO tubes on the lazy river at LEGOLAND Waterpark in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: LEGOLAND Florida via Facebook

Orlando has long attracted crowds of families searching for Spring Break spirit. School breaks, soaring temperatures, and sunny cloud-free days provide the ideal opportunity to explore the enchantment, natural wonder, and world-class entertainment served up by the City Beautiful.

Take a walk on the wild side and seek out bears and butterflies in the Orlando wetlands. Or, don your bikini and rash guard for a wave-filled afternoon of surfing the breaks at Cocoa Beach.

Amateur epicureans will devour the worldwide tastes and sweet-scented flora on deck at the Epcot International Flower Garden Festival, while those seeking stomach-lurching stimulation won’t be able to miss a ride on the chilling Ice Breaker coaster.

However, you choose to spend your Orlando spring break, from kayaking through lush marshes to sipping Hurricanes at Mardi Gras. O-Town’s seasonal excitement and plentiful things to do in spring break are sure to keep you satisfied.

Tell us, How Will You Spend Your Orlando Spring Break?

Did we skip any of the best spring break Orlando 2024 events? What are some other Orlando spring break activities you can suggest?

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