Orlando, USA

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Orlando, USA

Orlando, the theme park capital of the world! With so many exciting attractions, activities, and experiences to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. Fear not, dear traveler, for we’ve got you covered! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Orlando.

Places to Visit

Theme Parks

  • Walt Disney World: The iconic resort consists of four theme parks - Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Don’t miss the nighttime spectaculars, parades, and character meet-and-greets!
  • Universal Orlando Resort: Home to two theme parks - Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride thrilling attractions, and explore immersive lands.
  • SeaWorld Orlando: Get up close with marine life, watch animal shows, and enjoy thrill rides like Mako, Kraken, and Manta.

Water Parks

  • Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach: Two themed water parks offering lazy rivers, wave pools, and water slides.
  • Universal’s Volcano Bay: A tropical oasis with innovative attractions, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

Other Attractions

  • Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Explore the history of space travel, see real rockets and spacecraft, and even meet an astronaut!
  • Gatorland: A theme park and wildlife preserve featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles.
  • Orlando Science Center: Interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater.

Activities

Outdoor Adventures

  • Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Explore Orlando’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands with guided tours or self-rentals.
  • Hiking and Biking: Visit the Little Big Econ State Forest or the West Orange Trail for scenic trails and exercise.
  • Airboat Tours: Zip across Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho) or other nearby lakes to spot alligators, birds, and more.

Shopping and Nightlife

  • The Mall at Millenia: An upscale shopping center with luxury brands and dining options.
  • Disney Springs: A vibrant entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and live music.
  • International Drive: A lively strip lined with shops, restaurants, and nightlife spots.

Where to Eat

Classic Orlando Eats

  • Denny’s: A 24/7 diner serving breakfast favorites and comfort food.
  • Waffle House: Another iconic breakfast spot with a signature waffle iron.
  • Cici’s Pizza: Family-friendly Italian eatery with unlimited pizza, pasta, and salad.

Foodie Favorites

  • The Coop: Gourmet fried chicken and Southern sides in a fun, rustic setting.
  • The Polite Pig: Upscale barbecue with creative meats and sides.
  • Kadence: Intimate, omakase-style sushi experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Where to Stay

Luxury Resorts

  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Elegant Victorian-style resort with monorail access to Magic Kingdom.
  • Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Italian-inspired hotel with exclusive benefits, like Early Park Admission.
  • The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes: Upscale retreat with a lazy river, water slides, and golf course.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Disney’s All-Star Resorts: Three value-priced resorts - Movies, Music, and Sports - offering fun themes and amenities.
  • Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Retro-themed hotel with a pool, waterslide, and game room.
  • Holiday Inn Orlando - Lake Buena Vista: Conveniently located near Disney Springs with an outdoor pool and kids’ activities.

Things to Know

Weather

  • Orlando has a subtropical climate with hot summers (June to September) and mild winters (December to February).
  • Be prepared for sudden rain showers during the summer months.

Safety

  • Always stay hydrated and wear sunscreen in the Florida sun.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep valuables secure.

Tipping Culture

  • Tip 15% to 20% at restaurants and bars.
  • Porters, bellhops, and tour guides appreciate tips as well.

Transportation

Airport Transfers

  • Mears Connect: Shared-ride shuttle service from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to your hotel.
  • Uber and Lyft: Ride-hailing services available at MCO.

Getting Around

  • Rental Cars: Convenient for exploring beyond theme parks. Compare prices among companies like Alamo, Enterprise, and National.
  • Lyft and Uber: Alternative transportation options within Orlando.
  • I-RIDE Trolley: Free shuttle service connecting hotels, shopping centers, and attractions along International Drive.

Tips and Tricks

Planning Ahead

  • Book theme park tickets, restaurants, and character dining experiences well in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
  • Download official apps for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld to plan your day, check wait times, and reserve seats for shows.

Packing Essentials

  • Comfortable shoes for long days at theme parks
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and light clothing
  • Power banks for keeping devices charged on-the-go
  • Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated

Budgeting

  • Set aside money for parking fees (around $20-$30 per day)
  • Consider purchasing refillable cups or bottles for theme park drinks
  • Look for special offers, discounts, and bundle deals on attraction tickets and accommodations

Other Things of Interest

Sports

  • Orlando Magic: Catch an NBA game at the Amway Center.
  • Orlando City SC: Cheer on the local MLS soccer team at Exploria Stadium.

Nature and Wildlife

  • Wekiwa Springs State Park: Explore natural springs, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing areas just north of Orlando.
  • Winter Park Chain of Lakes: Take a scenic boat tour or stroll around these picturesque lakes.

Cultural Experiences

  • Orlando Museum of Art: Discover local and international art exhibitions.
  • Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts: Enjoy live performances, from concerts to Broadway shows.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Orlando! Remember to plan ahead, stay hydrated, and pack those sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Happy travels!