Orlando City Guide

General Information / Guide

Orlando, famously known as "The Theme Park Capital of the World," is located in central Florida, USA. It's a premier destination for both family and adventure travelers, home to world-renowned attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld. Beyond its thrilling theme parks, Orlando boasts a vibrant arts scene, a range of sporting events, and a diverse culinary landscape, making it a dynamic hotspot for tourists.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Orlando has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, rainy summers and mild, dry winters. The best time to visit is from September to mid-November when the weather is more manageable, and the tourist crowds are smaller. The winter months from December to February also offer pleasant weather, ideal for exploring outdoor attractions without the intense heat.

How to Get There

Orlando International Airport is the gateway to the city, serving both domestic and international flights. It's conveniently located about 6 miles southeast of downtown Orlando. Visitors can easily access the city center and major attractions via shuttle services, taxis, and rental cars. The airport is also well-connected to various parts of the city through bus lines and the SunRail train service.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Orlando's food scene is as diverse as its population, offering everything from gourmet dining to casual eateries. The city is famous for its seafood and offers a variety of international cuisines, reflecting its multicultural community. Visitors should try local specialties like Florida stone crab, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie. For a unique dining experience, visit the eateries at Disney Springs or the Universal CityWalk, where themed restaurants and celebrity chef establishments abound.

Important Places / Places to Visit

Walt Disney World Resort: A vast entertainment complex known for its theme parks like Magic Kingdom and Epcot.

Universal Orlando Resort: Offers movie-themed attractions and experiences, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

SeaWorld Orlando: A marine zoological park combined with thrilling rides and water-based performances.

Kennedy Space Center: Located just east of Orlando, it offers interactive exhibits and the chance to learn about America’s space program.

Orlando Science Center: Features hands-on learning experiences in science and technology for all ages.

Lake Eola Park: A serene spot in downtown Orlando, ideal for picnics and boat rentals.

What to Do

Immerse yourself in the magic of Disney World and Universal Studios, where fantasy becomes reality. Explore the educational exhibits at the Kennedy Space Center or engage with interactive displays at the Orlando Science Center. Enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Eola Park or catch a professional basketball game at the Amway Center.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Orlando's nightlife is vibrant and varied, with something to offer for every taste. The downtown area is bustling with bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. For a unique nightlife experience, visit the themed bars at Universal CityWalk or Disney Springs, where entertainment and dining combine for an unforgettable evening.

Shopping / What to Buy

Orlando is a shopper’s paradise, featuring an array of options from luxury boutiques at the Mall at Millenia to outlet shopping at Orlando International Premium Outlets. For souvenirs, the gift shops in the theme parks offer exclusive merchandise that can’t be found anywhere else.

Festivals/ Events

Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival (Spring)

Orlando International Fringe Theater Festival (May)

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal (September-October)

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (Fall)

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

1 January: New Year’s Day

Fourth Thursday in November: Thanksgiving

25 December: Christmas Day

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Orlando’s sun can be intense; always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days.

Traffic around major theme parks can be heavy, especially after closing times, so plan accordingly.

Stay hydrated, especially when visiting theme parks or spending extended periods outdoors.

Transportation

Orlando offers multiple transportation options, including buses, a commuter rail service called SunRail, and numerous taxi services. Renting a car is a popular option given the spread-out nature of the city and its attractions. For those staying near the theme parks, many resorts offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the parks.