Plan Your Trip to Orlando: Best of Orlando Tourism
Orlando, Florida
Essential Orlando
Things to do
Places to stay
Food & drink
Explore “The Wanderer's” unexpected guide to Orlando
Noteworthy Neighborhoods
Dig into Orlando
Plan your getaway to Orlando
More to explore in Orlando
The best hotel pools In Orlando (beyond the theme parks)
- Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort9,818There’s a lot to love about the sprawling pool grounds of the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, especially the resort’s unique swim-through grottos. These shaded caves turn an afternoon swim into an adventure; kids love to play hide and seek and imagine pirate chases (while I like to find a cool quiet nook and sip a cocktail). The main pool is a half-acre beauty with two whirlpools, a water slide tower, and a water jet splash zone.
- Signia By Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek8,548Dotted by palm trees and lush greenery, this 3-acre lazy river complex is far from your ordinary hotel pool. Grab a tube and do a loop, then splash down the waterslide into the pool (there are two hot tubs, too). Extra bonus: the expansive outdoor area is shared with sister resort the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. The elevated service is evident in the poolside attendants, private cabanas, and even poolside arts and crafts for kids.
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort3,213I love many things about the luxe Four Seasons Orlando, but the resort’s picture-perfect pool grounds rank at the top of my list. There are four pools to meet every mood, including one slide-filled option for families. A Splash Zone keeps the younger set entertained for hours, with columns spouting choreographed fountains of water. And the adults-only Oasis pool is a tranquil retreat with stunning views of the property from the pool’s infinity edge.
- Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort, an IHG hotel9,360Skip the pricey waterparks if you’re looking for Orlando’s longest lazy river—instead book a room here. The resort’s River Island is home to the area’s longest water feature, clocking in at 1,200 feet (longer than three football fields!). There are also seven pools and The Hippo, the world’s largest inflatable waterslide. Live music and fun pool games keep the deck hopping during the day; poolside family movies add blockbuster fun in the evenings.
- The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando4,157My favorite thing about The Grove Resort is its Surfari Water Park (also open to the public), which is stacked with tons of water activities. Even though I’m still working on getting up on my feet, I enjoy testing my balance on the FlowRider Surf Simulator. The resort’s main attraction is its impressive zero-entry pool with tropical vibes. You’ll find more thrill at the dual slides and more chill on the lazy river.
- JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes4,056I am in awe of the grandeur and scope of Orlando’s new Grande Lakes Waterpark (open to the public). Encompassing the JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton, the waterpark opened in 2023 with six zones of water fun. There are three waterslides that reach thrilling speeds, spacious lagoons, and a lazy river that rolls under a canopy of trees and waterfalls. Feeling adventurous? Head to AquaVenture, where a combo rope and sprinklers course offers some rousing splashes.
Browse collections
- A local's guide to Orlando's eats
- Fall in OrlandoSee what makes the place so magical this time of year
- Beyond the parksFamily fun beyond the themed rides
- Geek out with other fansMust-sees for pop-culture nerds
- Thrills and chillsTheme parks that should top your bucket list
- Orlando on a dimeCheap eats and wallet-friendly activities
- Feeling fancy-ishGo-all-out experiences you won’t forget
More great cities for family-friendly theme parks
Orlando Travel Guide
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Orlando
RaptorAdventures
If you plan to visit Disney, make advanced dining reservations and reserve fast passes online before arrival.
Lucille94
Go on Disney's site and familiarize yourself with the park layouts. You don't have to memorize them, but just having a general idea of how they flow and where things are is very helpful in my opinion!
Sasha138
There's more to Orlando than just amusement parks. Silver Springs has the clearest waters you've ever seen. Visit Church Street Station for some culture and don't forget to see the muscle cars at Old Town Kissimmee. Use the buses, you'll see a lot more than you bargained for and it only costs a dollar.
TheFloridaAdvisor
One of the great things about Orlando is that there are so many things to do, see, and experience without the negative vibe many big cities seem to give off.
Sasha138
Orlando, one big onion of entertainment, get peeling and only tears of joy will be traveling down your cheeks.
RaptorAdventures
Orlando is every traveler's dream. There is so much to do.
What is the best way to get there?
flying
Orlando is served by two international airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the city’s primary airport while the Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) serves as a secondary airport for the region.
bus
Greyhound offers intercity bus service from Orlando to multiple locations across the country.
driving
Travelers driving to Orlando usually come via Interstate 4, the city’s primary interstate highway.
train
Amtrak's Silver Meteor and Silver Star lines operate services between New York City and Miami.
Do I need a visa?
If you are traveling from an international destination use the U.S State Department’s Visa Wizard to determine if you need a visa.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (March to May) or fall (September to November): To avoid high temperatures and summer crowds, visit Orlando in the spring, when visitors seeking something other than theme parks can catch the annual Florida Film Festival in April. Average daytime temperatures in spring reach highs of 84 Fahrenheit (29 Celsius) and lows of 62 Fahrenheit (17 Celsius).
Mid-September through November brings milder weather and the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. If visiting during the fall, consider trip insurance as this is when Florida’s hurricane season hits. Average daytime temperatures in fall reach highs of 84 Fahrenheit (29 Celsius) and lows of 66 Fahrenheit (19 Celsius).
Get around
train
SunRail is Greater Orlando’s commuter train. It runs north-south and operates Monday to Friday. It doesn’t stop at or near any theme parks.
More information on schedules and fares here.
bus
Lynx serves the greater Orlando area in Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties, with limited service to Polk County. The bus system also runs the zero-fare LYMMO Bus in Downtown Orlando.
More information on schedules, routes, and fares here.
i-ride trolley
I-Ride Trolleys serve the International Drive Resort Area, operating daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
rideshare
Uber and Lyft are available in Orlando on your smartphone.
On the ground
What is the timezone?
Eastern Daylight Time
What are the voltage/plug types?
The standard voltage in the United States is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.
What is the currency?
The U.S. Dollar
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes.
Is it easy to find a bank?
Yes.
How much do I tip?
Bartender
$1 a drink or $2 for a more labor-intensive cocktail
Restaurant
15-20%
Buffet
$1-$2 per person
Dealer
$1-$5 per session or 2-5% of your winnings
Bellman
$1 to 3 per bag
Housekeeper
$2-$3 per night
Taxis/rideshare
15-20%
Shuttle driver
$1-$2 per person
Tour guide
10-20%
Are there local customs I should know?
Drinking
The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21 years old.
Walking
Walk to the right of the sidewalk and step off to the side of the sidewalk if you want to stop to check your phone, look up directions, or want to take in a view.
Public transport
Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.
Spitting
Spitting is considered rude in any public setting.
Find more information about local customs and etiquette in the United States generally here.
Orlando travel advice
Location and Price Range
According to forum posts, travelers looking for a budget-friendly option near Disney might consider Regal Oaks and Windsor Hills, which offer two-bedroom condos and are close to Disney. However, they may need to increase their budget as the desired price of around £100 per night is generally considered low for this area.
Accommodation Features
Some travelers have suggested Floridays Resort Orlando, which features spacious 2- and 3-bedroom suites with kitchens and a washer/dryer, making it suitable for families. This resort also has a shuttle service, although the schedule may not be very convenient.
Alternative Options
For those willing to explore options beyond the typical hotel stay, platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are recommended. These can offer a variety of rental types, from condos to villas, providing more space and amenities like full kitchens.
High-End Alternatives
Travelers looking for more luxurious accommodations might consider the JW Marriott at Grande Lakes, which offers large family rooms. However, these come at a higher price point.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Family-Friendly Features
Some travelers have recommended the Marriott Harbour Lake for its exceptional family-oriented amenities, highlighting the two zero-entry pools, one featuring a pirate ship, and a dedicated splash pad and baby pool. The spacious two-bedroom condos are particularly suited for families, ensuring comfort and convenience.
Accommodation Options
According to forum posts, the Gaylord Palms and Margaritaville are also popular choices for families visiting Orlando. These resorts offer extensive recreational facilities, including impressive pool areas and multiple on-site dining options, catering well to both adults and children.
Alternative Recommendations
Travelers have called out the Reunion Resort and Storey Lake community as great options for families. These resorts boast large pool areas with features like water slides and lazy rivers, adding to the enjoyment for children of various ages.
Considerations for Young Children
For those traveling with toddlers, the Renaissance at SeaWorld has been noted for its kid-friendly pool with shallow water and fun splash pads, making it a safe and enjoyable option for young guests.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Recommendations from Travelers
According to forum posts, Magic Kingdom is highly recommended for families with young children, as it offers a quintessential Disney experience with a variety of attractions suitable for all ages. Travelers have mentioned that renting a double stroller can help manage the park's size and keep children comfortable.
Alternative Suggestions
For those interested in a combination of theme park experiences and marine life, SeaWorld is another recommended option. Some travelers have expressed satisfaction with the park's mix of rides and marine animal shows, making it a good choice for a more relaxed day. However, others have noted concerns about mask compliance and social distancing measures.
Additional Park Options
Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are suggested for adults or families with older children, especially those who are fans of Harry Potter, as these parks offer more thrill rides and detailed thematic experiences. According to some posts, staying at a Universal Premier Hotel provides added benefits like unlimited Express Pass access, enhancing the experience with shorter wait times.
Special Mention
Legoland is mentioned as a favorable option for families with younger children, particularly for its child-friendly rides and attractions. This park is less overwhelming and provides a playful environment that is specifically tailored to younger guests.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Public Transport
According to forum posts, the Lynx bus service operates within Orlando, providing an affordable transportation option with fares at $2 per person one way. This service might involve additional waiting times and transfers, depending on the route.
Rental Cars and Private Services
Some travelers mentioned that renting a car is often the most convenient way to navigate Orlando, especially for visiting multiple attractions like Kennedy Space Center or Clearwater Beach. Private car services and companies like Tiffany Town Car are also frequently used for direct trips, such as from accommodations to specific destinations.
Shuttle Services
For theme park visits, travelers have called out the availability of shuttle services offered by certain hotels, which can be a cost-effective and convenient option. For example, the Marriott offers a free shuttle to the parks, operating multiple times a day.
Alternative Transport Options
For those hesitant to drive, options like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Orlando, providing flexible travel solutions around the city and to nearby attractions.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Planning and Age Considerations
Some travelers suggested considering the age and interests of children when planning a Disney World trip. For instance, it's advised to plan visits around the children's ages and potential height restrictions on rides. Younger children might enjoy the magic of Disney more, while older children can participate in a wider range of rides.
Crowd Management
According to forum posts, managing expectations about crowds is crucial. Travelers have noted that parks can be very crowded, especially during holidays and special events. Using tools like Disney's Genie+ service to schedule rides and reduce waiting times has been recommended.
Activities Beyond Rides
Travelers have called out the importance of not just focusing on rides but also enjoying other experiences. Disney World offers various character encounters, educational tours, and themed playgrounds that can provide restful yet exciting diversions for children.
Special Considerations
For families traveling with special needs, Disney's Disability Access Service (DAS) is highlighted as a beneficial feature, allowing guests with disabilities to schedule ride times without having to wait in conventional lines.
Stay and Dining
Forum users often discuss accommodation options that cater to families, suggesting staying on-site for easy access to the parks. Regarding meals, opinions vary on meal plans, but many suggest they might not offer the best value, recommending budgeting for meals independently to possibly save money.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Local Favorites
According to forum posts, restaurants like Santiago's Bodega, known for its tapas, and Christner's Prime Steak & Lobster, which offers high-quality dining experiences, are highly recommended by travelers. Additionally, The Greek Corner and The Pinery are suggested for more casual lunch options.
Unique Dining Experiences
Some travelers have highlighted unique dining spots such as Mango’s Tropical Café and Teatro Martini Orlando for entertaining dinner shows, providing a mix of acrobatics, magic, and live performances alongside dining.
Brunch and Casual Eats
For brunch, Seven Bites and Maxine’s on Shine are popular choices among forum members. These spots are appreciated for their lively atmosphere and robust menus.
Fine Dining
For those seeking a fine dining experience, Kres Chophouse and Victoria and Albert's are frequently mentioned by food enthusiasts on the forum, offering sophisticated menus and elegant settings.
Non-Chain Restaurants
Travelers have called out local spots like Antonio's for Italian cuisine and Pio Pio for authentic Latin dishes, offering a break from the typical chain restaurant offerings found in tourist areas.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Ticket Purchasing Websites
According to forum posts, several websites are recommended by travelers for purchasing Orlando theme park tickets. Websites like Undercover Tourist and Floridatix are frequently mentioned, with some travelers expressing satisfaction with the prices and customer service. These platforms often offer discounts and bundle deals which can include additional perks like freebies or insurance options.
Advice on Timing and Types of Tickets
Some travelers advised that purchasing tickets early is beneficial, especially to avoid price hikes that are common closer to travel dates. For UK travelers, purchasing 14-day tickets, which often cost the same as 7-day tickets, is seen as economical. These tickets typically allow unlimited park access over the specified period and may include additional parks like water parks.
Physical vs. E-Tickets
The choice between physical tickets and e-tickets is also discussed. E-tickets are convenient and can be linked to park apps, facilitating easy park entry and management. However, some users prefer physical tickets for the ease of direct entry into the parks without the need to queue for ticket exchanges.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Choosing Parks and Tickets
According to forum posts, for a short visit to Disney World, it's essential to prioritize which parks to visit based on personal interests. Some travelers suggested focusing on Magic Kingdom and Epcot for their variety of attractions that appeal to all ages. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to ensure entry, especially during peak times.
Maximizing Time
Travelers have called out the importance of planning ahead to maximize time at the parks. Making use of Disney's FastPass system (or its current equivalent) was frequently suggested to minimize waiting times for popular attractions. Staying at a Disney resort was also recommended for benefits like early park entry.
Additional Tips
For many users, incorporating rest days or less intensive park days into the itinerary helps in managing the exhaustive nature of a packed Disney schedule. Checking the parks calendar for special events or shows can also enhance the experience.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?
- We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Orlando, which include:
- Some of the most popular restaurants in Orlando include:
- Orlando is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Orlando:
- If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Orlando between June and August, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between December and February.