Plan a theme park adventure with your furry friend in Orlando, Florida. From Walt Disney World to Gatorland, PetFriendly recommends the best welcoming theme parks. In this guide, we explore Orlando’s top theme parks and share our favorite pet-friendly attractions and accommodations to make your next vacation unforgettable!
Are you looking for the perfect vacation spot where you can bring your furry friends along?
Pet lovers, rejoice!
If you’re planning to visit Orlando, you’re in for a treat. Known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and endless entertainment options, Orlando is the perfect place to bring your furry friend along.
As pet owners, we know how challenging it can be to find places and activities that cater to both us and our furry companions. At PetFriendly, we’re passionate about making sure every member of the family feels included on vacation, which is why we’ve put together this guide to help you plan the ultimate theme park adventure in Orlando – for animal lovers or with your pets by your side!
So, grab a map of Orlando theme parks, pack your bags, and let’s get started on your next great adventure!
Happy dog wearing Mickey ears at the entrance of a sunny Orlando theme park
The Magic Of Walt Disney World With Your Furry Companion
Furry companions are a part of your family and they deserve to have an amazing vacation experience. That’s why we’re thrilled to share with you our top picks for pet-friendly attractions and accommodations within the park. And when it comes to pet-friendly theme parks in Orlando, Walt Disney World is the first destination that comes to many travelersβ minds.
According to Disneyβs official website, four out of 26 resorts have designated dog-friendly rooms. The four include Disneyβs Yacht Club Resort, Disney Port Orleans Resort β Riverside, Disneyβs Art of Animation Resort, and the Cabins at Disneyβs Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.Β
The offering also includes Plutoβs Welcome amenity, which gives dogs and their owners a collection of dog-friendly items. Certain floors or sections of certain hotels are designated as dog-friendly, while the majority of areas remain canine-free to accommodate guests with allergies or other needs.
Weβd say Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is one of the best pet-friendly accommodations within Walt Disney World. This camping resort offers a range of camping options, from tent sites to fully-equipped cabins. The resort also offers pet-friendly amenities, such as a dog park and walking trails.
What’s more, you can even have your furry friend’s picture taken with some of your favorite Disney characters at the on-site pet photo session!
Disney’s pet-friendly dining options are limited, but they are still worth mentioning. Guests can bring their furry friends (limited to service dogs) to the outdoor patio of some restaurants, such as the Friar’s Nook in Fantasyland, Flame Tree Barbecue in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Casey’s Corner in Magic Kingdom.
Experience Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an impressive Orlando theme park that stands out for its dedication to wildlife conservation and education.
With a range of attractions and experiences that are suitable for all ages, it’s no wonder that this park is a favorite among animal lovers. One of the top attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the Maharajah Jungle Trek, a walking trail that transports visitors through the ruins of an ancient palace in Southeast Asia. This immersive experience allows you to observe a variety of exotic animals, such as tigers, fruit bats, and Komodo dragons, in their natural habitats.
Another must-visit attraction at the park is the Festival of the Lion King, a Broadway-style show that features talented performers, colorful costumes, and beloved songs from the hit movie. Pets are not allowed inside the theater, but there are designated areas where you can leave your pet during the show.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a must-visit Orlando theme park for anyone who loves animals and nature. With a wide range of pet-friendly attractions and experiences, you and your furry companion are sure to have an unforgettable adventure.
Explore The Thrills Of Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort is no doubt one of the most popular theme parks for animal lovers.
The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is one of the more pet-friendly accommodations within the park, providing pets with the comfort and convenience of staying inside the resort. Up to two pets are allowed per room, as per their policy.
In addition to pet-friendly accommodations, the park also offers dining options that cater to pet owners, such as outdoor dining areas where pets are also welcome. Universal Studios Orlando is also known for its pet-friendly amenities, including kennels and pet relief areas.
If you’re traveling with a trained service animal, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of pet-friendly attractions and experiences within Universal Orlando Resort. The E.T. Adventure ride is one of the most popular pet-friendly attractions, allowing pet owners to experience the magic of the movies with their furry friends.
The Jurassic Park Discovery Center is another must-visit attraction, featuring interactive exhibits that will keep both you and your pet entertained for hours.

Dive Into Pet-Friendly Fun At SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is another park that caters to animal lovers, providing an immersive experience that allows visitors to connect with marine life like never before.
The park offers a range of attractions and exhibits that showcase everything from dolphins and sea turtles to sharks and whales. Guests can also enjoy live shows and performances, as well as a variety of other fun-filled activities.
For pet-friendly accommodations near SeaWorld Orlando, the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld is an excellent option. This hotel is located just a short distance from the park and offers a range of amenities that are sure to make you and your pet feel right at home.
There are many dining options that welcome pets near SeaWorld Orlando, making it easy to find something to suit your and your budβs tastes. Some of the best options include Sharks Underwater Grill, Voyager’s Smokehouse, and Seafire Grill. These restaurants offer a range of delicious menu items, from fresh seafood to classic American fare.
Some of the most pet-friendly attractions and experiences within the park include the Dolphin Nursery, where guests can get up close and personal with these amazing creatures, and the Orca Encounter, which provides an unforgettable view of killer whales in action. Other highlights include the Manta roller coaster, which takes riders on a thrilling ride through the sky, and the Journey to Atlantis water ride, which is sure to cool you off on a hot day.
Animal Encounters Near Discovery Cove
Many animal lovers seek out vacations that allow them to get up close and personal with wildlife. That’s why we recommend a visit to Discovery Cove when you’re in Orlando.
This unique Orlando theme park offers guests the chance to swim with dolphins, snorkel with rays, and hand-feed exotic birds. The park is committed to animal conservation and education, making it a hot destination for those who want to learn more about the creatures they encounter in the park.
When it’s time to rest up after a day at Discovery Cove, have no worries as there are plenty of pet-friendly accommodations nearby. The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is one great option, with spacious rooms and easy access to the park. Your furry friend will be welcome to relax in your room with you, plus the hotel offers a range of amenities to make your stay more comfortable.
After a day of adventure, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, there are plenty of pet-friendly dining options near Discovery Cove. Grab a bite at Cafe Tu Tu Tango, which serves up small plates inspired by different regions around the world. Or head to Bravo! Cucina Italiana for classic Italian dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Florida’s Native Wildlife At Gatorland
Gatorland is a hidden gem in Orlando, and we’re thrilled to share with you why!
This park is unlike any other, with a focus on Florida’s native wildlife and natural beauty. It’s an absolute must-visit for animal lovers, and the perfect place to connect with nature and the wildlife that calls Florida home.
At Gatorland, there’s no shortage of pet-friendly attractions and experiences, although it is limited to service animals.
One of our favorites is the Gator Gully Splash Park, where you and your furry friend can cool off on a hot Florida day. There’s also the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, which takes you soaring above the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to these exciting attractions, Gatorland also offers educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. You can attend a wildlife show or take a guided tour to learn more about the park’s resident animals, including alligators, crocodiles, and many other native species.
And while your furry friends may not be able to participate in these experiences, they can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air. The park’s shaded walkways and picnic areas make for a perfect place to relax and take a break with your pets.

Find Your Adventure At Orlando’s Top Theme Parks
As our tour of Orlando‘s pet-friendly theme parks comes to a close, we hope you have found valuable insights and are excited to embark on your next adventure with your furry friends.Β
From Walt Disney World to Gatorland, the city boasts numerous pet-friendly options that will leave you and your pets with unforgettable memories to cherish forever.
PetFriendly understands that traveling with pets can be quite challenging, but with proper planning and research, it can be an enjoyable experience for both pets and their βhoomans.β
We encourage you to consider PetFriendly as your go-to guide for all your pet-friendly travel needs. Our platform offers resources, tips, and affordable accommodations that cater to pet owners, providing a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.
Traveling with pets is a rewarding experience. It strengthens the bond between pets and their owners and allows pets to explore and experience the world alongside their human companions.
We hope that through this article, we have inspired you to consider traveling with your pets and experiencing the joy of exploring together.