Orlando travel guide
Orlando Tourism | Orlando Guide
You're Going to Love Orlando
Orlando is famous for two things: Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. However, given the chance the city will impress. This lively, friendly Florida destination has much more to offer than just amusement parks.
However, there's no getting around it - those amusement parks are spectacular. Visitors can spend weeks trying all the rides at Walt Disney World. If you are simply looking for a fabulous family destination, look no further.
Back in town, Downtown Orlando is well worth exploring. There are the world-class pottery and jewelry exhibits at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, gourmet restaurants like Ceviche Tapas or Amura, and sporting venues like the Amway Center, home of the NBA's Orlando Magic.
So don't bypass Orlando when heading to Florida. Combine the best of both worlds by staying close to the amusement parks in one of the Sunshine State's friendliest Downtown districts.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Orlando
Walt Disney World
Founded in 1971, Walt Disney World is America's number one amusement park, welcoming around 20 million visitors every year. It is divided into four separate and equally entertaining areas - the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. If you love rides, shows, and world cuisine, there's nowhere like it.
Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando is only slightly smaller than Walt Disney World and they make an incredible pair of attractions. Universal is the place to go for movie lovers who want to experience the all the excitement of their favorite films. From Harry Potter and the Simpsons to Despicable Me and Transformers, there are rides here to suit everyone.
Golf
Orlando's convenient location and wonderful climate have helped it to become one of the world's greatest golfing centers. Book a tee time at Mystic Dunes, Lake Nona, and Celebration, all of which are superbly crafted championship-level courses.
Nature
Orlando is also a great place to get acquainted with the natural world. You can watch spectacular marine shows at SeaWorld Florida, featuring killer whales and dolphins, see the alligators at Gatorland or the endangered Florida panthers at Forever Florida.
Food
Orlando and the major amusement parks are fantastic places to sample cuisine from around the world. For example, Walt Disney World alone features French, Moroccan, British, Italian, Cajun, Indian, Japanese, and Hawaiian eateries (among many others). If you want to organize a culinary world tour, you'll never have a better opportunity.
What to do in Orlando
1. Walt Disney World Resort: "The Happiest Place on Earth"
This is the largest and most frequented vacation park in the world, and for a good reason - it boasts four different theme parks and a never-ending program of fun for the whole family. The Magic Kingdom exudes classical Disney, while Epcot celebrates a diversity of cultures from around the globe. Hollywood Studios makes movie-making magic come to life, and Animal Kingdom is the place to celebrate the natural world. And of course, your favorite characters are found at every stop along the way.
2. Universal Orlando Resort: Step onto the Movie Set
A mega-theme park combining the famous Universal Studios with the more specifically themed "Islands of Adventure", this resort experience rivals Walt Disney World with an immersive movie experience. Walk through mind-bogglingly accurate recreations of Hollywood and New York, and let your favorite famous actors guide you down the rabbit hole.
3. SeaWorld Orlando: Dive In
The world of mysterious and fascinating ocean life is delivered to your fingertips at Orlando's famous SeaWorld. A marine zoological park with themed rides, thrilling shows, and a diversity of wildlife, SeaWorld offers an educational and unforgettable day out for the whole family. Dine with sharks, dance with penguins, and revel in the joys of the natural world. The neighboring Discovery Cove lets you swim with dolphins, and the Aquatica water park is an endless maze of water slides.
4. LEGOLAND Florida: Just for Kids
LEGO building blocks are beloved by children around the world. Presenting millions of possibilities, the unique toy inspires epic creativity and innovation - the themes upon which this family theme park is modeled. Built around beautiful botanical gardens, the park is filled with attractions, thrill rides, elaborate LEGO sculptures, and hands-on building zones. Kids' favorite characters come to life at every turn, all beneath the glorious Floridian sun.
5. Orlando Science Center: The Curiosity to Explore
This hands-on museum is just as fun-filled as the super-sized theme parks that Orlando is best known for. Here, the theme is the very world that we live in. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the wonders of engineering, the layers of Mother Earth, the space beyond our atmosphere, the prehistoric existence of dinosaurs and more. From "Kinetic World" to the Observatory, anyone can dig right in.
6. Epcot: Two Realms Inside One World
Venture into the Future World and roam inside Epcot's Project Tomorrow. There, interact with the Body Builder, Super Driver, Inversion or Power City display and learn the science behind them. Take a ride on Ellen's Energy Adventure, Bruce's Shark World or visit the realm of coral reefs. At Epcot's World Showcase, visit 11 countries, taste their foods and learn about their culture. If you are a history buff, you'll love Spaceship Earth. Travel back to the Stone Age, attend the moon landing and learn about man's latest achievements. In between experiences, you can dine at Epcot's restaurants and continue your adventure by visiting the Frozen Ever After ride. Be prepared to spend at least a couple of days there in order to appreciate the full experience of this magical site.
1. Walt Disney World Resort: "The Happiest Place on Earth"
This is the largest and most frequented vacation park in the world, and for a good reason - it boasts four different theme parks and a never-ending program of fun for the whole family. The Magic Kingdom exudes classical Disney, while Epcot celebrates a diversity of cultures from around the globe. Hollywood Studios makes movie-making magic come to life, and Animal Kingdom is the place to celebrate the natural world. And of course, your favorite characters are found at every stop along the way.
2. Universal Orlando Resort: Step onto the Movie Set
A mega-theme park combining the famous Universal Studios with the more specifically themed "Islands of Adventure", this resort experience rivals Walt Disney World with an immersive movie experience. Walk through mind-bogglingly accurate recreations of Hollywood and New York, and let your favorite famous actors guide you down the rabbit hole.
3. SeaWorld Orlando: Dive In
The world of mysterious and fascinating ocean life is delivered to your fingertips at Orlando's famous SeaWorld. A marine zoological park with themed rides, thrilling shows, and a diversity of wildlife, SeaWorld offers an educational and unforgettable day out for the whole family. Dine with sharks, dance with penguins, and revel in the joys of the natural world. The neighboring Discovery Cove lets you swim with dolphins, and the Aquatica water park is an endless maze of water slides.
4. LEGOLAND Florida: Just for Kids
LEGO building blocks are beloved by children around the world. Presenting millions of possibilities, the unique toy inspires epic creativity and innovation - the themes upon which this family theme park is modeled. Built around beautiful botanical gardens, the park is filled with attractions, thrill rides, elaborate LEGO sculptures, and hands-on building zones. Kids' favorite characters come to life at every turn, all beneath the glorious Floridian sun.
5. Orlando Science Center: The Curiosity to Explore
This hands-on museum is just as fun-filled as the super-sized theme parks that Orlando is best known for. Here, the theme is the very world that we live in. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the wonders of engineering, the layers of Mother Earth, the space beyond our atmosphere, the prehistoric existence of dinosaurs and more. From "Kinetic World" to the Observatory, anyone can dig right in.
6. Epcot: Two Realms Inside One World
Venture into the Future World and roam inside Epcot's Project Tomorrow. There, interact with the Body Builder, Super Driver, Inversion or Power City display and learn the science behind them. Take a ride on Ellen's Energy Adventure, Bruce's Shark World or visit the realm of coral reefs. At Epcot's World Showcase, visit 11 countries, taste their foods and learn about their culture. If you are a history buff, you'll love Spaceship Earth. Travel back to the Stone Age, attend the moon landing and learn about man's latest achievements. In between experiences, you can dine at Epcot's restaurants and continue your adventure by visiting the Frozen Ever After ride. Be prepared to spend at least a couple of days there in order to appreciate the full experience of this magical site.
1. Walt Disney World Resort: "The Happiest Place on Earth"
This is the largest and most frequented vacation park in the world, and for a good reason - it boasts four different theme parks and a never-ending program of fun for the whole family. The Magic Kingdom exudes classical Disney, while Epcot celebrates a diversity of cultures from around the globe. Hollywood Studios makes movie-making magic come to life, and Animal Kingdom is the place to celebrate the natural world. And of course, your favorite characters are found at every stop along the way.
2. Universal Orlando Resort: Step onto the Movie Set
A mega-theme park combining the famous Universal Studios with the more specifically themed "Islands of Adventure", this resort experience rivals Walt Disney World with an immersive movie experience. Walk through mind-bogglingly accurate recreations of Hollywood and New York, and let your favorite famous actors guide you down the rabbit hole.
3. SeaWorld Orlando: Dive In
The world of mysterious and fascinating ocean life is delivered to your fingertips at Orlando's famous SeaWorld. A marine zoological park with themed rides, thrilling shows, and a diversity of wildlife, SeaWorld offers an educational and unforgettable day out for the whole family. Dine with sharks, dance with penguins, and revel in the joys of the natural world. The neighboring Discovery Cove lets you swim with dolphins, and the Aquatica water park is an endless maze of water slides.
4. LEGOLAND Florida: Just for Kids
LEGO building blocks are beloved by children around the world. Presenting millions of possibilities, the unique toy inspires epic creativity and innovation - the themes upon which this family theme park is modeled. Built around beautiful botanical gardens, the park is filled with attractions, thrill rides, elaborate LEGO sculptures, and hands-on building zones. Kids' favorite characters come to life at every turn, all beneath the glorious Floridian sun.
Where to Eat in Orlando
Dining out is one of Orlando's biggest attractions (after the amusement parks). Actually, Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are good places to eat themselves. Check out the French cuisine at La Luce in the Disney World complex and the Cajun-inspired cookery at Emeril's Tchoup Chop at Universal Orlando. City center favorites include 4 Rivers Downtown, a high-class BBQ eatery, and the Japanese restaurant Amura. Dining at the amusement parks is a little more expensive than dining Downtown. Expect to pay $20 for a good meal at the attractions and around $15 for a mid-range meal in Downtown restaurants.
When to visit Orlando
One of the best things about Orlando is the climate. Central Florida has almost wall-to-wall sunshine, so weather might not be the most important factor in deciding when to visit. Instead, think about crowds. High season for the major attractions is mid-summer, while the Christmas vacation is also busy. Try March and April or October and November to see the sights and enjoy the rides without contending with hordes of fellow tourists.
How to Get to Orlando
Plane
Getting to Orlando by plane is simple. Orlando International Airport is a few miles southeast of Downtown Orlando and well connected to the city center by public transport. Just catch the Lynx Route 111 bus (which leaves every 30 minutes and costs $2). Alternatively, use one of the many limousines, airport transfer, or taxi companies present at the airport, or pick up a rental car from outlets like Avis, Enterprise, and Alamo. Taxis from the airport to the city center will cost around $30.
Train
Orlando's Amtrak station is located at 1400 Sligh Blvd and is a stop on both the Meteor and Silver Star routes. This connects Orlando to Miami to the south and destinations as far north as New York, so the city is well connected by rail.
Car
If you are coming from the north or west, there are two major road routes into Orlando. You can either take I-75 (from Chicago, Detroit, and the West) or I-95 (from New York, Washington and other Eastern Seaboard cities).
Bus
Greyhound is the city's major intercity bus operator, and their local terminal is located at 555 N John Young Pkwy, near the center of town. Megabus also provides bus connections between Orlando and cities like Miami, Jacksonville, and New Orleans while companies like ATC Buses provide regional connections to other Florida cities.
Airlines serving Orlando
Where to stay in Orlando
Downtown Orlando – Orlando's Downtown district is the city's commercial hub, but it also includes prosperous residential areas like Thornton Park and Eola. If you are seeking the "real Orlando" - not just amusement parks - this is the place to stay. See the Tiffany jewelry collection at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, catch a music concert at the Amway Center or take a ride in the swan boats on Lake Eola. All of it less than 30 minutes from Walt Disney World.
Popular Neighborhoods in Orlando
Lake Buena Vista – Buena Vista is located just southwest of Orlando itself and is famous for one thing: Walt Disney World. This is the place to stay if you plan to try all of the rides, see all the shows, and dine at all of the park's restaurants. The area itself has plenty of restaurants and bars, including Miller's Ale House and Chevy's - while the Lake Buena Vista Resort has a championship standard golf course.
Universal/CityWalk – Orlando's other major attraction is Universal Studios, which has its own neighborhood in southwest Orlando. Check out hotels in the CityWalk area to be close to the park's musical attractions like Bob Marley - A Walk to Freedom, dine out on gourmet sushi at the Cowfish, and follow it up with cocktails at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville.
Where to stay in popular areas of Orlando
Most booked hotels in Orlando
How to Get Around Orlando
Public Transportation
Orlando is well-served by the LYNX bus network, which operates 60 different routes in the Metropolitan area. Buses 37 and 40 will take you to Universal Studios, while bus 50 stops at Walt Disney World. Wherever you go, the flat fare is $2 per journey.
Taxis
If you are staying in central Orlando and don't want to rent a car, taxis are a good way to get to the major attractions. For example, a trip from Downtown Orlando to Walt Disney World will cost around $28, while reaching Universal Studios will cost about $32. There are plenty of reputable local companies, including Mears, Tiffany Towncars, and Ace Metro.
Car
Orlando is a great city to rent a car, with an easy to navigate road network and plenty of parking at major hotels and attractions. However, traffic can be a problem, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays around the major attractions. You can call 511 to obtain up to the minute traffic information, which should make life easier.
The Cost of Living in Orlando
Shopping Streets
Orlando is a fantastic shopping destination, with a number of mega-malls capitalizing on the vast numbers of tourists. The best place to shop is Artegon Marketplace. This shopping complex hosts a dizzying array of locally owned stores, including jewelry boutiques like Marianna Crafts and homeware stores like Bleu Beach. The Florida Mall is, amazingly, even larger than Artegon. This vast mall is the place to go for major brands, with names like Apple, Hollister, and Dick's Sporting Goods all represented.
Groceries and Other
Big stores like Walmart, Safeway, Publix, and Aldi have a presence near Downtown Orlando, so an affordable groceries shop shouldn't be hard. Prices in Orlando don't tend to be too high, considering it's a major tourist destination. 12 eggs will cost around $2.50, and you can expect to pay $10-12 for a good bottle of wine.