Orlando Theme Parks Offer Great Deals for Family Travel

Update: With their 1Q results Disney announced that their discount packages will be extended until August of 08.

With the economy in near shambles, Central Florida tourist destinations know they have to offer some pretty good deals to get you in the door. The Walt Disney World Resort is giving away 7 nights for the cost of 4 and, depending on what dates you travel, sometimes throwing in free food, spending cash, and other discounts. You’ll even get into a theme park for free if you visit on your birthday. Travel for the 7 for 4 deal must be completed by June 27th.

Seaworld, Aquatica, and Busch Gardens have taken that promotion idea a step farther. They’re partnering with nearby hotels to offer a pay for three nights get five deal. Even better, that deal includes unlimited theme admission during your stay. It’s the first time SeaWorld has offered a deal like this. Packages for a family of four start at under $600. That’s a pretty affordable vacation in anyone’s book. Packages must be purchased by March 31 and are good for most days through June 26.

Universal Studios used their connections with GE and NBC to take out some ads during the Super Bowl and give away up to 300,000 free tickets to the Orlando theme parks. I’m not sure if this will have the same affect as Disney’s free on your Birthday promotion, but the idea is the same, hopefully the holder of that free ticket will bring two or three paying friends with them. Universal Studios is also offering a “buy three stay for five” deal, which also includes unlimited admission, starting at around $700 for a family of four. Travel must be completed by October 8th 2009.

So, there you have it. If you can drive, ride the train, or find a cheap flight down to Central Florida, now is a great time to take advantage of any number of great deals at the local parks. Be sure to tell them I sent you.