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ICON Orlando

 herdie, Flickr (license)

Image: herdie, Flickr (license)

It might seem like overkill to have a 400-foot observation wheel in the middle of a state famous for its lack of topography — but the beauty of ICON Orlando isn’t really in its views of mountains or streams. Rather, it’s principal attraction is the ability it gives its riders to see just how big Orlando has truly become.

What makes ICON Orlando unique on this list is that it isn’t just a pleasure to experience as a ride — it’s also a wonderful attraction to look at. When illuminated at night, it dominates the tourist-area’s skyline. During the day, it provides a helpful landmark for navigation and bearing-setting. 

But, as pretty as it is to look at, it’s just as wonderful to experience. The views are truly lovely — if not for the acrophobic.

The LEGO Movie: Masters of Flight (Legoland Florida)

 minnemom, Flickr (license)

Image: minnemom, Flickr (license)

When the LEGO Movie came to theaters in 2014, the film surprised everyone with its playful vibe, massive heart, and energetic style. As such, it made sense that the movie would eventually find its way into LEGO’s theme parks — and, sure enough, 2019 was the year that The LEGO Movie: Masters of Flight made its debut.

The concept is fairly simple — Disney’s “Soarin’” ride system is that company’s intellectual property. And so, rather than licensing that, LEGO partnered with a company producing its own version (the entire theater itself rotates rather than just the seats) to use that ride style for a trip through the hit film.

It features scenes from the movie, as well as some playful jabs at Disney and Universal, all through a fun and family friendly theme park adventure. Legoland Florida has become a place families with younger children should absolutely visit, and rides like The LEGO Movie: Masters of Flight will surely help the adults have a good time too.

Cheetah Hunt (Busch Gardens Tampa)

 simon17964, Flickr (license)

Image: simon17964, Flickr (license)

If you were to ask a coaster junkie what the best roller coaster in Florida is, they’d probably argue Montu — an inverted roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa. And, yes, Montu is exceptional. However, Cheetah Hunt, located nearby in the park, is far more unique.

Featuring a signature treetop figure eight, and multiple sections of accelerated launch, Cheetah Hunt truly captures the feeling of the titular animal running through the Serengeti. It isn’t the fastest roller coaster in the world, or the tallest. But it among the most thematically excellent in the world.

You might be more scared on other rides, but Cheetah Hunt will keep a grin glued to your face. And, isn’t that what theme parks are all about?

 
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