Orlando, Florida, is known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World”, but it offers so much more than just Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. From world-class entertainment and outdoor adventures to incredible dining and shopping, Orlando is a destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about visiting Orlando, including the best theme parks, hidden gems, top restaurants, and essential travel tips.
1. Best Theme Parks in Orlando
Orlando is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks, offering something for every age and interest.
🏰 1. Walt Disney World Resort (Best for Families & Disney Fans)
- Includes Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
- Must-See Attractions: Cinderella’s Castle, Space Mountain, Avatar: Flight of Passage.
- Special Events: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party & EPCOT Food & Wine Festival.
- Genie+ Pass allows faster access to rides (extra cost).
🎢 2. Universal Orlando Resort (Best for Thrill-Seekers & Movie Lovers)
- Includes Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay (water park).
- Must-See Attractions: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
- Tip: Park-to-Park tickets are required to ride the Hogwarts Express between parks.
🐬 3. SeaWorld Orlando (Best for Marine Life & Aquatic Thrills)
- Home to marine animal exhibits, thrilling roller coasters, and live shows.
- Must-See Attractions: Mako (Orlando’s tallest & fastest coaster), Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, and Dolphin Adventures.
🌊 4. LEGOLAND Florida (Best for Young Kids & Families)
- Features Lego-themed rides, water park, and interactive attractions.
- Best for kids ages 2-12.
🔥 Pro Tip: Visit parks early in the morning to avoid long lines, and use mobile apps to check wait times.
2. Hidden Gems & Unique Attractions in Orlando
Beyond the theme parks, Orlando has plenty of underrated attractions to explore.
🌳 1. Wekiwa Springs State Park (Best for Outdoor Adventures)
- Natural crystal-clear springs perfect for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
- Located 30 minutes north of Orlando.
🚀 2. Kennedy Space Center (Best for Space Lovers)
- See real NASA rockets, space shuttles, and astronaut exhibits.
- Don’t miss the Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit & Astronaut Training Experience.
🌿 3. Leu Gardens (Best for a Relaxing Escape)
- 50-acre botanical garden with beautiful flowers, lakes, and historic homes.
- Perfect for a quiet afternoon walk away from the theme park crowds.
🎨 4. Orlando Science Center & Museums
- Orlando Science Center – Interactive exhibits for kids and adults.
- Mennello Museum of American Art – Features folk art and lakeside sculptures.
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! – A fun, quirky museum full of oddities and illusions.
🔥 Pro Tip: Spend one or two days exploring non-theme park attractions to experience Orlando’s local charm.
3. Where to Eat in Orlando: Best Restaurants & Local Eats
Orlando’s food scene is diverse and delicious, featuring everything from fine dining to food trucks.
🍽️ Best Restaurants in Orlando
✔ Victoria & Albert’s (Fine Dining) – A luxurious Michelin-starred experience.
✔ The Ravenous Pig (Gastropub) – Famous for its craft beer & Southern-inspired dishes.
✔ Se7en Bites (Brunch & Bakery) – Best for biscuits, fried chicken, and homemade pastries.
✔ Prato (Italian Cuisine) – Known for handmade pasta & wood-fired pizza.
✔ The Coop (Southern Comfort Food) – Try the fried chicken & shrimp & grits.
🔥 Pro Tip: Disney Springs & ICON Park have great dining options if you’re near the theme parks.
4. Best Places to Stay in Orlando
Orlando offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
🏨 Best Hotels & Resorts in Orlando:
✔ Luxury Stay: Four Seasons Resort Orlando (Located inside Walt Disney World).
✔ Theme Park Hotel: Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel (Early park access & Express Passes).
✔ Family-Friendly: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (Themed rooms & fun pools).
✔ Budget-Friendly: Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando (Affordable & close to attractions).
✔ Unique Stay: JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Resort (Great for couples & relaxation).
🔥 Pro Tip: Staying on-site at Disney or Universal gives you extra park perks like early entry and free transportation.
5. Best Time to Visit Orlando
Orlando is a year-round destination, but some months are better than others.
📅 Best Times to Visit:
✔ Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival.
✔ Fall (September-November): Fewer tourists, Halloween events, and lower hotel prices.
🚫 Busiest Times to Avoid:
🚫 Summer (June-August): Hot, humid, and very crowded.
🚫 Christmas & New Year’s (Late December – Early January): Peak crowds at Disney & Universal.
🔥 Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays instead of weekends to avoid longer wait times at theme parks.
6. Transportation Tips for Getting Around Orlando
✔ Renting a Car – Best for flexibility, especially for day trips.
✔ Theme Park Shuttles – Many hotels offer free shuttles to Disney & Universal.
✔ Lynx Bus System – Public transportation option but limited in some areas.
✔ Uber & Lyft – Great for quick trips around the city.
✔ I-Ride Trolley – Best for tourists staying on International Drive (I-Drive).
🔥 Pro Tip: Parking at Disney & Universal is expensive ($25+ per day)—use shuttles when possible.
FAQs About Visiting Orlando, Florida
1. What is the #1 attraction in Orlando?
Walt Disney World is Orlando’s biggest attraction, featuring four major theme parks and dozens of resorts.
2. How many days do I need in Orlando?
✔ 3-5 days for Disney & Universal.
✔ 5-7 days to explore theme parks + local attractions.
3. What is the best Disney park to visit?
✔ Magic Kingdom – Classic Disney experience.
✔ Epcot – Best for food & cultural experiences.
✔ Hollywood Studios – Best for Star Wars & thrill rides.
✔ Animal Kingdom – Best for nature lovers & Avatar fans.
4. What’s the best day to visit theme parks?
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday have the shortest wait times compared to weekends.
5. Is Orlando expensive?
Orlando can be expensive, but you can save money by:
✔ Visiting in the off-season (fall or spring).
✔ Booking hotels & park tickets early.
✔ Using free attractions like Disney Springs & Lake Eola Park.
6. What are the best free things to do in Orlando?
✔ Walk around Disney Springs & ICON Park.
✔ Visit Lake Eola Park & Winter Park.
✔ Explore Leu Gardens (Free on select days).
7. Can I visit Universal & Disney in one trip?
Yes, but you’ll need at least 5-6 days to fully enjoy both without feeling rushed.