REVIEWS OF HOTEL EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGES, KIDS CLUBS AND MORE.
Orlando, known as the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and countless other attractions, is the dream trip for both children and adults alike. But in 2025, the price tag for that dream seems to be rising by the day.
With rising ticket costs, accommodation rates, food expenses, and extras, it is starting to feel out of reach. Let’s take a closer look at the factors driving up the costs and whether Orlando is still worth it for families.
For many families, visiting theme parks while in Orlando has always been on the list of things to do, but now, the costs seem to be rising with each rising sun. For example, a one-day ticket can now cost hundreds of dollars per person, depending on the season. For a family of four, even a few days quickly add up to thousands of dollars.
At Universal Orlando Resort, prices are also climbing, especially with the buzz around new attractions, such as the much-hyped Epic Universe, which is set to open soon. Other extras, such as fast-track passes, character dining, and special events like Halloween Horror Nights or after-hours shows, can push the budget even higher.
Orlando has all kinds of places to stay, from small budget hotels to big luxury resorts. However, prices have gone up in recent years, even for the cheaper options.
Staying inside Disney or Universal resorts is very convenient and comes with some extra benefits, but it usually costs a lot. Hotels outside the parks are often less expensive, but they too have become pricier as more people visit the city. On top of the room cost, families often face extra charges like resort fees, parking, and local taxes, which can make the final bill much higher than expected.
Eating out in Orlando can also take up a large part of a family’s budget. Meals inside the theme parks tend to be more expensive, especially if you choose special dining experiences. Even restaurants outside the parks have become costlier due to higher demand. Over the course of a holiday, the total spent on food can sometimes feel just as high.
There is no simple answer to this question. It really comes down to the details of your holiday and the activities you want to do. Here are some tips to help you plan and prepare:
Book early - Most flights and hotels often offer the best rates for travellers who book months in advance.
Travel off-season - This will not only help you secure the best deals, but you will also enjoy a better experience without large crowds.
Bundle deals - Some travel agencies and online platforms offer discounted packages for flights, hotels, and park tickets.
Stay off-site with kitchens - Renting an apartment or villa with cooking facilities can save a fortune on meals.
Limit park days - Instead of trying to do it all, you can focus on a few key attractions and spend other days exploring Orlando’s free or low-cost activities like parks, lakes, and shopping districts.
Orlando continues to deliver unmatched entertainment and provide magical experiences for families. Prices are undeniably higher than before, and for many families, the costs may be too high, but with careful planning, strategic savings, and realistic expectations, it can still be a dream holiday destination. It may no longer be the “every year” trip for most, but as a once-in-a-while adventure, the experience is worth it.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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