- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Orlando
Orlando's origins trace to the post-Civil War era, fueled by the citrus industry. The Downtown Historic District reveals styles like Mediterranean Revival. A visit to the Rogers Building or Church Street Station is key for any Orlando tourist guide.
Beyond the attractions, Central Florida offers surprising natural escapes. The headwaters of the Everglades begin here, offering unique airboat tours. Wekiwa Springs State Park's cool, clear waters are perfect for kayaking, a key tip when visiting Orlando.
What is Orlando famous for? Beyond attractions, its food scene thrives. The Mills 50 district is a hub for authentic Vietnamese pho. Local chefs champion farm-to-table dining, using ingredients from Zellwood, the 'Sweet Corn Capital of the World'.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Mar-MayPleasant weather, moderate crowds
- Jun-AugHot & humid, peak tourist season
- Sep-NovWarm, fewer crowds, possible storms
- Dec-FebMild temperatures, cool evenings
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #LightClothing
- #RainGear
- #WaterBottle
- #PortableCharger
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 days with beaches & side trips
- US Dollar ($)
- English
- English is the official language here
- #WaltDisneyWorld
- #UniversalStudios
- #SeaWorld
- #OrlandoScienceCenter
- #LakeEolaPark
- #ICONPark
- Enjoy the fireworks at Disney
- Visit Harry Potter World
- Explore the Orlando Science Center
- Stroll around Lake Eola
- Shop at The Mall at Millenia
Recommended Hotels in Orlando by Experience
Things to do in Orlando
Discover
Exploring Orlando reveals more than theme parks. Discover serene Lake Eola Park with its iconic fountain, delve into hands-on exhibits at the Orlando Science Center, and enjoy classic amusements at ICON Park with its observation wheel.
Experience
Kayak through Shingle Creek's cypress forests, catch a Broadway show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, or explore the vibrant murals of the Mills 50 district. The city offers diverse cultural and outdoor experiences.
Walt Disney World Resort
Sprawling theme park resort with four distinct parks.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
NASA's launch headquarters with space-themed exhibits.
Universal Orlando Resort
Movie-themed resort with two theme parks and a water park.
Lake Eola Park
Urban park featuring a large lake and iconic fountain.
Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts
Modern venue for Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
50-acre botanical oasis with tropical and floral displays.
ICON Park
Entertainment complex with a 400-foot observation wheel.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO). The Brightline train offers a direct connection to Miami. To get from the Orlando airport to city center, use LYNX buses (40-60 min), an Orlando shuttle bus, or taxis (20-30 min) for your transfer.
Getting Around
Car rental in Orlando offers the most freedom. Public transport in Orlando includes the extensive LYNX bus network and the I-Ride Trolley, serving International Drive. Most major theme parks and some hotels provide their own complimentary bus services.
Local Essentials
When driving in Orlando, be prepared for toll roads; get a SunPass or use pay-by-plate options. One of the best Orlando travel tips for first-timers is to pre-book theme park parking online to save time and money when you plan a trip to Orlando.
Where to Stay in Orlando
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore where to eat in Orlando beyond the parks. Taste authentic food Orlando offers, from savory gator tail to sweet Key Lime Pie. The city thrives on a vibrant happy hour culture, a perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring.
Enjoy
Eat at The Boathouse for an upscale, waterfront vibe. Grab a drink at Raglan Road Irish Pub, a lively spot, and catch their authentic shows. Indulge at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium's steampunk setting, save room for dessert.
The Boathouse
Upscale waterfront dining with classic American surf and turf.
Boma - Flavors of Africa
All-you-can-eat buffet with vibrant African-inspired dishes.
Maggiano's Little Italy
Classic Italian-American fare served in family-style portions.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co
A fun, casual spot for shrimp lovers and seafood fanatics.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Orlando's heritage through events like the springtime Fiesta in the Park at Lake Eola, a long-running tradition. Universal's Mardi Gras brings New Orleans-style parades and Cajun cuisine to the city from February to April.
Enjoy
Discover must-see Orlando attractions for modern art and music lovers. The Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival is the longest-running of its kind in the US. For electronic music, Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) is a top draw.
EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival
Spring event with Disney character topiaries and live music.
Halloween Horror Nights
Annual Universal Studios event with haunted houses in fall.
Orlando Fringe Festival
A 14-day uncensored performing arts festival held in May.
Fiesta in the Park
Twice-yearly arts, crafts, and music festival at Lake Eola.
Come Out With Pride
October festival with a large parade celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC)
Major electronic dance music festival every November in Orlando.
Universal's Mardi Gras
A spring celebration with parades, concerts, and Cajun food.
More Than Just Parks
Orlando is so much more than theme parks. The whole city is incredibly clean and well-organized. We stayed a bit off the main tourist track and found some great local spots. Everything just works smoothly, which makes for a very relaxing holiday.
Perfect Family Holiday
The theme parks are world-class, obviously. There's an insane amount for kids of all ages to do. The water parks were a huge hit with our family, and finding a good Dole Whip on a hot day was a highlight. A really easy place for a family trip.
Shopper's Paradise!
Orlando has amazing shopping opportunities for everyone. The outlets, especially the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, had so many great deals. After a day of shopping, the food options were plentiful. It's a great destination for retail therapy.
So Relaxing
We spent most of our time just enjoying the resort. The pools were fantastic, especially the lazy river. It's a great place to just switch off and soak up the sun. You don't have to rush around; you can have a really laid-back vacation here.
A Lovely Day Trip
We took a day away from the usual attractions to see Winter Park. The scenic boat tour was just beautiful, and walking along Park Avenue was so pleasant. It's a completely different side of the area, very calm and pretty with great little shops.
Great for Work and Play
Was in town for a conference and had a great time. The International Drive area is perfect for post-meeting entertainment. Riding The Wheel at ICON Park offered some amazing views of the city at night. Very convenient and fun for a business trip.