About Orlando
Orlando is the global hub for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and family resorts, with lakeside neighbourhoods and Kennedy Space Center within day-trip range.
Best time
January–April and late August–early December for milder crowds and weather
Weather
Humid subtropical — hot wet summers, mild winters; afternoon storms common in summer
Airport
Orlando International (MCO)
Getting around
Disney/Universal transport for parks; rental car for Winter Park and Space Center
Experiences
Things to do in Orlando
1
Walt Disney World Resort
2
Universal Orlando Resort
3
ICON Park / The Wheel
4
Kennedy Space Center day trip
5
Lake Eola Park
6
Winter Park and Rollins College
7
International Drive
8
Harry P. Leu Gardens
Budget travel
Free things to do in Orlando
ICON Park / The Wheel
Lake Eola Park
Winter Park and Rollins College
Harry P. Leu Gardens
Winter Park boat tour
Leu Gardens
Mostly free or pay-what-you-like — always double-check opening times and any seasonal fees before you go.
Plan your trip
Suggested itinerary
- 1
Day 1
Icons & landmarks
- Visit Walt Disney World Resort
- Visit Universal Orlando Resort
- Visit ICON Park / The Wheel
- 2
Day 2
Culture & neighborhoods
- Visit Kennedy Space Center day trip
- Visit Lake Eola Park
- Visit Winter Park and Rollins College
- 3
Day 3
More highlights
- Visit International Drive
- Visit Harry P. Leu Gardens
Where to eat
Local favourites
- $
4 Rivers Smokehouse
BBQ · Central Florida BBQ favourite
- $$
The Ravenous Pig
American · Winter Park gastropub landmark
- $
Keke's Breakfast Cafe
Breakfast · Local breakfast chain locals love
- $$$$
Victoria & Albert's
Fine dining · Disney Grand Floridian tasting-menu icon
Where to stay
Tourist favourites & top-rated
- $$$$
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort
Walt Disney World · Flagship Disney luxury stay
- $$$
Universal's Hard Rock Hotel
Universal Orlando · Early park access favourite
- $$$$
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Bonnet Creek · Golf-resort luxury near Disney
Shopping
- Disney Springs
- Icon Park
- Winter Park Village
Nightlife
- Disney Springs
- Universal CityWalk
- Thornton Park
Museums & culture
- Orlando Museum of Art
- Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Local foods to try
- Florida citrus
- Theme-park classics
- Cuban spots near downtown
Hidden gems
- Winter Park boat tour
- Leu Gardens
- Wekiwa Springs
Travel tips
- Buy park tickets and Lightning Lane / Express passes before you fly
- Midweek park days are usually quieter than weekends
- Stay on-site if early park entry matters to your group
In pictures
Orlando gallery
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Keep exploring
