Orlando, United States

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Orlando, USA

Welcome to the City Beautiful! Orlando is a vibrant destination that offers something for everyone. From thrilling theme parks to tranquil natural attractions, world-class dining options, and exciting nightlife scenes, this guide will help you navigate the best of what Orlando has to offer.

Places to Visit

1. Walt Disney World Resort

  • The largest and most visited theme park in the world.
  • Includes four separate parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
  • Must-visit attractions include Cinderella’s Castle, Spaceship Earth, and the Tree of Life.

2. Universal Orlando Resort

  • Home to two immersive theme parks: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade and Islands of Adventure.
  • Features thrill rides like the Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster and the Incredible Hulk Coaster.
  • Don’t miss the spectacular shows and street performances, including the Cinematic Celebration nighttime show.

3. SeaWorld Orlando

  • A marine-life theme park with various animal exhibits, shows, and thrill rides.
  • Popular attractions include Dolphin Days, Sesame Street Safari of Fun, and Mako, Kraken & Manta roller coasters.
  • Learn about conservation efforts and interact with marine animals.

4. LEGOLAND Florida

  • A family-friendly theme park built for kids aged 2-12.
  • Features rides, shows, and attractions based on the popular LEGO toy franchise.
  • Don’t miss Miniland USA, featuring scale models of famous cities made from millions of LEGO bricks.

5. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

  • Located about an hour outside Orlando, this NASA facility is a must-visit for space enthusiasts.
  • Take a guided tour to see real rockets and spacecraft, including the Apollo/Saturn V Center.
  • Witness a rocket launch (if scheduled) or experience a virtual tour of the International Space Station.

Activities

1. Outdoor Adventures

  • Explore the natural beauty of Orlando by visiting one of the many nearby lakes, rivers, or parks.
  • Rent kayaks or paddleboards to navigate the waters and enjoy scenic views.
  • Visit the Lake Eola Park for a picturesque stroll around the lake.

2. Shopping and Dining

  • International Drive is a shopper’s paradise with a variety of malls, outlet centers, and specialty stores.
  • The Disney Springs area offers unique shopping experiences, dining options, and entertainment venues.
  • Don’t miss the vibrant Winter Park neighborhood for upscale shopping and dining.

3. Nightlife

  • Orlando has an exciting nightlife scene with various bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from.
  • Visit the popular Wall Street Plaza area for a lively atmosphere and live music performances.
  • Enjoy rooftop bars like The Whiskey and The Polite Pig for stunning views and craft cocktails.

Where to Eat

1. Fine Dining

  • The Disney Springs area features upscale dining options like The Boathouse, The Edison, and Morimoto Asia.
  • Visit the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World for refined cuisine and exceptional service.
  • Don’t miss the renowned Italian restaurant, Carbone, located in the Vero Beach-inspired shopping district.

2. Casual Dining

  • The famous Shake Shack is a must-visit for quick and delicious burgers.
  • Visit the food trucks on International Drive or at the Winter Park Farmers’ Market for unique eats.
  • Enjoy classic American comfort food at The Coop, a fried chicken joint in Orlando.

Where to Stay

1. Disney Resorts

  • From value-priced options like the All-Star Resorts to luxurious properties like the Grand Floridian,
  • Disney offers an extensive range of on-site resorts for all budgets and preferences.
  • Consider staying at one of the deluxe resorts, such as the Polynesian Village Resort or the Contemporary Resort.

2. Universal Hotels

  • The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal CityWalk is a stylish choice with upscale amenities.
  • Visit the Hyatt Regency Orlando for modern accommodations and convenient access to International Drive.
  • Don’t miss the fun, nautical-themed Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

3. Off-Site Hotels

  • Consider staying in the nearby Winter Park neighborhood for charming B&Bs and boutique hotels.
  • Visit the luxurious Hyatt Regency Orlando’s sister property, the Hyatt Place, for modern amenities and a great location.
  • Don’t miss the historic Casa Monica Resort & Spa in downtown Orlando.

Transportation

1. Disney Transportation

  • Disney offers complimentary transportation services within their resort area, including buses, boats, and monorails.
  • Take advantage of these convenient options to travel between your hotel and the theme parks.

2. Uber and Lyft

  • Popular ride-sharing services are widely available in Orlando, providing affordable and efficient transportation.
  • Use these apps to get around the city or visit nearby attractions.

Tips

1. Plan Ahead

  • Book your accommodations and theme park tickets well in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
  • Research and reserve popular restaurants and experiences early to ensure availability.

2. Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe

  • Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection during outdoor activities.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

3. Take Breaks

  • Take regular breaks to rest and recharge between theme park visits or other intense activities.
  • Visit nearby parks or take a stroll around your hotel’s pool area for relaxation.

Other Things You Might Want to Know

1. Weather

  • Orlando has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Be prepared for heat and humidity during the summer months (June to August).
  • Enjoy milder temperatures during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).

2. Safety and Security

  • As with any popular tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  • Follow park rules and guidelines for safety and security.

3. Special Events and Festivals

  • Orlando hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and the Universal CityWalk Jazz Festival.
  • Visit their websites or consult local event calendars to catch these exciting happenings.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped for an unforgettable adventure in Orlando. From thrilling theme parks to relaxing outdoor activities, world-class dining options, and exciting nightlife scenes, The City Beautiful has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the magic of Orlando!