Welcome to Orlando, Florida! Known as the "Theme Park Capital of the World," Orlando offers a wealth of attractions, entertainment, and natural beauty. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Getting to Orlando
Airports:
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): The primary airport serving the region, offering flights from around the world.
- Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB): A smaller airport that serves domestic and international flights.
Transportation:
- Rental Cars: Available at both airports.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.
- Public Transportation: Lynx buses and SunRail trains connect various parts of the city.
Where to Stay
Hotels and Resorts:
- Walt Disney World Resort: Offers a variety of themed hotels and resorts.
- Universal Orlando Resort: Features several on-site hotels with exclusive benefits.
- International Drive: Home to numerous hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.
Vacation Rentals:
- Airbnb and VRBO: Offer a wide range of vacation homes and condos.
Theme Parks
Walt Disney World Resort:
- Magic Kingdom: The classic Disney park with iconic attractions like Cinderella Castle and Space Mountain.
- Epcot: Celebrates innovation and international culture with attractions like Spaceship Earth and the World Showcase.
- Disney's Hollywood Studios: Focuses on movie magic with attractions like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.
- Disney's Animal Kingdom: A unique blend of theme park and zoo, featuring attractions like Expedition Everest and the Tree of Life.
Universal Orlando Resort:
- Universal Studios Florida: Home to thrilling rides and shows based on popular movies and TV shows.
- Universal's Islands of Adventure: Features exciting attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park River Adventure.
- Universal's Volcano Bay: A water theme park with innovative slides and attractions.
SeaWorld Orlando:
- SeaWorld: Offers marine life exhibits, thrilling rides, and educational shows.
- Discovery Cove: An all-inclusive day resort where you can swim with dolphins and snorkel with tropical fish.
- Aquatica: A water park with slides, pools, and animal encounters.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort:
- LEGOLAND: A theme park designed for families with young children, featuring LEGO-themed rides and attractions.
- LEGOLAND Water Park: A water park with slides and play areas designed for kids.
Attractions and Entertainment
Icon Park:
- The Wheel: A 400-foot observation wheel offering stunning views of the city.
- Madame Tussauds: A wax museum featuring lifelike figures of celebrities and historical figures.
- SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: An interactive aquarium with a variety of marine life.
Kennedy Space Center:
- Located about an hour east of Orlando, offering a unique opportunity to explore the history of space exploration.
The Orlando Eye:
- A 400-foot observation wheel providing panoramic views of the city.
WonderWorks:
- An interactive science museum with over 100 hands-on exhibits.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!:
- A museum featuring oddities and curiosities from around the world.
Crayola Experience:
- An interactive attraction where kids can explore art and technology.
Shopping
The Florida Mall:
- One of the largest single-story malls in the USA, featuring over 250 stores and restaurants.
The Mall at Millenia:
- An upscale shopping destination with luxury brands and designer boutiques.
Orlando International Premium Outlets:
- Offers discounted designer brands and popular retail stores.
Disney Springs:
- A shopping, dining, and entertainment complex at Walt Disney World Resort.
Dining
Restaurant Row:
- A stretch of Sand Lake Road featuring a variety of upscale restaurants and dining options.
International Drive:
- Home to numerous restaurants, including themed dining experiences and international cuisine.
Downtown Orlando:
- Offers a mix of local eateries, bars, and cafes.
Nightlife
Universal CityWalk:
- A dining and entertainment complex at Universal Orlando Resort, featuring restaurants, bars, and live music.
Downtown Orlando:
- Home to numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
International Drive:
- Offers a variety of nightlife options, including bars, clubs, and comedy clubs.
Outdoor Activities
Wekiva Springs State Park:
- Offers swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Lake Eola Park:
- A beautiful urban park with a lake, swan boats, and walking paths.
Harry P. Leu Gardens:
- A 50-acre botanical garden featuring a variety of plants and flowers.
Gatorland:
- A 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve, known as the "Alligator Capital of the World."
Sports
Amway Center:
- Home to the Orlando Magic (NBA) and host to various concerts and events.
Camping World Stadium:
- Hosts college football games, soccer matches, and other sporting events.
Orlando City Stadium:
- Home to Orlando City SC (MLS) and the Orlando Pride (NWSL).
Events and Festivals
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival:
- A annual event featuring food, wine, and entertainment from around the world.
Halloween Horror Nights:
- A popular Halloween event at Universal Studios Florida, featuring haunted houses and scare zones.
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party:
- A family-friendly Halloween event at Magic Kingdom.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Orlando:
- A massive electronic dance music festival held annually at Tinker Field.
Tips for Visiting Orlando
- Plan Ahead: Book your accommodations, theme park tickets, and dining reservations in advance.
- Pack for the Weather: Orlando can be hot and humid, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when visiting theme parks.
- Use the Apps: Download the official apps for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and other attractions for real-time information and wait times.
- Explore Beyond the Parks: While the theme parks are a major draw, don't miss out on the natural beauty and cultural attractions Orlando has to offer.
Enjoy your trip to Orlando! Whether you're seeking thrills, relaxation, or adventure, this vibrant city has something for everyone.
Orlando, Florida: 7-Day Travel Guide
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive in Orlando and check into your hotel. Popular areas to stay include International Drive, Lake Buena Vista, and Downtown Orlando.
- Afternoon: Visit the Orlando Science Center to explore interactive exhibits and learn about science and technology.
- Evening: Head to Disney Springs for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Enjoy live music and street performances.
Day 2: Theme Park Adventure
- Morning: Spend the day at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. Experience classic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and meet beloved Disney characters.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring the Magic Kingdom, and don't miss the afternoon parade.
- Evening: Stay for the fireworks show and enjoy dinner at one of the park's restaurants.
Day 3: More Disney Magic
- Morning: Visit Epcot at Walt Disney World. Explore the World Showcase and Future World, and enjoy rides like Soarin' and Test Track.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring Epcot, and don't miss the afternoon shows and performances.
- Evening: Dine at one of the international pavilions in the World Showcase and enjoy the evening fireworks.
Day 4: Universal Studios
- Morning: Head to Universal Studios Florida and experience thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows.
- Afternoon: Explore Universal's Islands of Adventure, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner and nighttime shows at Universal CityWalk.
Day 5: SeaWorld and Aquatica
- Morning: Visit SeaWorld Orlando to see marine life, enjoy thrilling rides, and watch live shows.
- Afternoon: Head to Aquatica, SeaWorld's water park, for a fun-filled afternoon of water slides and pools.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore local dining options.
Day 6: Downtown Orlando and Nightlife
- Morning: Visit the Orlando Museum of Art to appreciate local and international art.
- Afternoon: Explore Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. Rent a swan boat or enjoy a picnic.
- Evening: Experience Orlando's nightlife in the Thornton Park or Church Street districts. Enjoy live music, bars, and clubs.
Day 7: Shopping and Departure
- Morning: Spend the morning at The Florida Mall or The Mall at Millenia for shopping.
- Afternoon: Visit the Orlando Premium Outlets for more shopping deals.
- Evening: Depart Orlando or enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Additional Tips:
- Transportation: Consider renting a car or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around.
- Weather: Orlando can be hot and humid, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
- Tickets: Purchase theme park tickets in advance to save time and money.