All about Orlando
When to visit
Autumn is ideal for a visit, as slightly cooler temperatures make outdoor activities much more enjoyable. Seasonal things to do in Orlando like Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are worth braving the crowds. Spring is also a fine time to explore the city. Temperatures aren’t too high, and there are fewer crowds than during the summer. The Florida Film Festival in Maitland and the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival offer weeks of entertainment throughout the city’s hip and creative neighborhoods.
Getting around
Downtown Orlando is compact, allowing you to walk from the Sunday farmers market at Lake Eola to an event at Amway Center within minutes. Lime bike rentals are available, and a free Lymmo bus has three routes around the city operating daily. The good news is that SunRail runs from DeBary to Kissimmee with one station downtown; the bad news is that schedules are limited, so rely on rideshares or private cars for exploring the wider area.
Traveler tips
East End Market in Audubon Park requires a visit—and an appetite. Though it may be a small collection of local food stalls, it offers a mighty mix of local grub like half-pound cookies at Gideon’s Bakehouse, white cold brews at Lineage Coffee, and amazing wings at Domu. If your tastebuds need more, you’re only a few steps away from craft beer at Redlight Redlight, decadent scoops at Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, and amazing sushi at Kadence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orlando famous for?
Orlando is home to more than a dozen world-renowned amusement parks, including the Walt Disney World® Resort (the largest amusement park in the world) and Universal Studios. Orlando’s shopping and dining scenes are also draws, as is its proximity to coastal destinations such as Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, and Cape Canaveral.
What is there to do at Orlando beyond theme parks?
There are more things to do in Orlando than blockbuster theme parks, from trips into nature (including kayak or airboat tours of local wetlands) to sports (like the Orlando Magic), shopping excursions, and eclectic food tours. It’s also a convenient base for attractions including the Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach.
What is the best month to go to Orlando?
April is a good month to visit Orlando if you want to avoid summer’s high-season prices, crowds, and sweltering temperatures (not to mention the potential upheaval of hurricane season). Springtime temperatures typically don’t exceed the 80s℉ (27℃), making beach trips, nature excursions, and theme park visits more pleasant.
What is the most visited place in Orlando?
Walt Disney World® Resort welcomes upwards of 50 million visitors per year, and is far and away Orlando’s most-visited attraction (and one of the most popular tourist resorts in the country). It offers six amusement parks (including two water parks), dozens of hotels, shopping and entertainment options, and top-tier restaurants.
How can I spend 3 days in Orlando?
If you have just three days, begin by exploring the parks and entertainment at the Walt Disney World® Resort. On day two, go to Universal Orlando to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And on day three, head into nature: swim with manatees or go for a kayak excursion.
Is Orlando safe?
Yes, Orlando is generally a very safe and family-friendly city, and that’s particularly true at tourist destinations like its many resorts and theme parks. Climate conditions often pose the biggest threat: Heat stroke can be a risk, and it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast during hurricane season (from June to November).