Best Florida Theme Parks For An Affordable Summer Vacation

We have so many great theme parks in Florida and if you're looking for the best for an affordable summer vacation, look no further.

Living here in Southwest Florida, between Tampa and Orlando, we have so many options for fun. I love that within a few hours, you can be to a place that people fly in from all over the world to enjoy. So if you're looking for a vacation or a staycation, there's no shortage of places to check out. While theme parks offer amazing experiences and unforgettable memories, there's no denying that they can also put a dent in your bank account.

First, the cost of entry isn't cheap. Just to walk in the door can easily cost $100, or more! The good thing, is that throughout the year, a lot of parks offer great discounts for Florida residents, so that's definitely the time to buy. Then, once you get in, the money starts flowing. Whether it's a big ole juicy burger, a bucket of popcorn, ice cream or even just a cold soda, the prices add up. Some friends at Disney a few weeks ago each got a Mickey pretzel and that was $45 right there!

And of course, you can't leave without some merchandise. Especially because a lot of it is exclusive to the theme park. So you have to get it there, you won't find it at your neighborhood Walmart. From t-shirts to hats, stuffed animals to keychains, maybe some Mickey/Minnie ears the gift shops are filled to the brim with fun stuff to take home. As a kid, I remember my parents telling us we could each pick one small thing and one big thing. I got a t-shirt and a watch that I never wore. (I still ask myself to this day why I thought that was a good idea. I was 10.)

But there are ways to do it on the cheap, or at least a little more affordable. If you're looking to vacation on a budget, Home To Go released their 2023 Florida Theme Park Index. It dives into costs of theme parks, number of attractions and the best parks overall.

Entry Cost: $154

Parking: $25

Entry Cost: $134.99

Parking: $30

Entry Cost: $144

Parking: $25

Entry Cost: $144

Parking: $25

Entry Cost: $109

Parking: $30

Entry Cost: $159

Parking: $25

Entry Cost: $109

Parking: $30

Entry Cost: $104

Parking: $28.04

Entry Cost: $54

Parking: $28.04

Entry Cost: $59.95

Parking: FREE