I recently had the opportunity to visit Orlando, Florida, and I want to share with you some tips that can make your trip even better.
Planning is key
Before traveling to Orlando, it is important to plan well. Check which attractions you want to visit, opening hours, tickets, restaurant and hotel reservations. This can help to avoid unnecessary queues and unforeseen events.
Choose the right time to travel
Orlando is known for its tourist attractions and theme parks, but lines can be very long during peak season, which is usually December through March. So, if possible, try to travel at other times of the year when the parks are less crowded.
Be sure to visit the theme parks
Orlando is famous for its theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World and others. If you are planning to visit the city, be sure to include at least one of these parks in your itinerary. Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid lines.
Make time for shopping
Orlando is a shopper's paradise. The city has several malls and outlets with very attractive prices. Make time to visit these places and secure some memories of your trip.
Try the local cuisine
In addition to tourist attractions and theme parks, Orlando also offers a wide variety of restaurants serving delicious dishes. Try the local cuisine and discover new flavors.
Don't forget the sunscreen
Orlando is a hot, sunny city, so it's critical to use sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays. Also take a hat or cap to protect yourself even more.
Have a good time!
Finally, remember that the purpose of your trip is to have fun and make the most of everything the city has to offer. Take lots of pictures, meet new people and enjoy unforgettable moments in Orlando.
Tourist attractions in Orlando Florida
Orlando is a city full of tourist attractions for all tastes. Here are some of the main tourist attractions that you cannot miss:
Walt Disney World:
the largest and most famous theme park in the world, which has four theme parks, two water parks and a wide range of hotels, restaurants and shops.
Universal Studios Florida:
a theme park offering attractions based on popular movies such as Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Transformers and others.
SeaWorld Orlando:
a theme and water park that offers attractions related to marine animals, live shows and lots of fun.
Legoland Florida:
a theme and water park aimed at children that offers several attractions based on toy blocks.
International Drive:
one of Orlando's main avenues, which has a wide variety of restaurants, shops and attractions, including ICON Orlando, a Ferris observation wheel.
Gatorland:
a theme park and zoo offering a one-of-a-kind experience seeing alligators and other Florida wildlife.
Kennedy Space Center:
located about an hour's drive from Orlando, it is NASA's main visitor center and offers a variety of exhibits and experiences related to space exploration.
These are just some of the main tourist attractions in Orlando, but there are many other interesting places to visit in the city, such as the Orlando Eye, Epcot Center, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and many others. You will certainly find many options to have fun and make the most of your trip to Orlando.
Orlando's most popular outlets
Orlando is a popular destination for those who enjoy shopping, and the city has several malls and outlets that offer a wide variety of products at very attractive prices.
Orlando International Premium Outlets: this is the biggest outlet in Orlando, with more than 180 stores, including brands such as Adidas, Calvin Klein, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, among others.
Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores: this outlet offers more than 50 stores, including brands such as Converse, Fossil, Gap, Levi's, Old Navy and others. Plus, it offers free transportation to Lake Buena Vista area hotels.
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets: this outlet has more than 160 stores, including brands such as Coach, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch and others.
The Mall at Millenia: although it is not an outlet, this mall is very popular with tourists visiting Orlando. It has a wide variety of designer stores, such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada and others.
Disney Springs: it's not an outlet either, but it's a Disney shopping and entertainment center offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants and attractions.
Florida Mall: another popular mall in Orlando, which has more than 250 stores, including brands such as Abercrombie & Fitch, H&M, Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue and others.
These are just some of the most popular outlets and malls in Orlando. Regardless of which one you choose, you're sure to find plenty of shopping to enjoy during your trip.
Orlando's Main Streets
Orlando is a big, vibrant city with many interesting streets to visit.
Discover the main streets:
International Drive: one of the most famous streets in Orlando, it is a wide avenue that has a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions, including ICON Orlando, a huge observatory in the shape of a Ferris wheel.
Orange Avenue: one of the main streets in downtown Orlando, it is home to many historic and cultural buildings such as the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Orange County Regional History Center and the Amway Center, home of the Orlando Magic basketball team.
Sand Lake Road: also known as “Restaurant Row”, is a street full of restaurants of all types of cuisines, from seafood to Italian and Asian food.
park avenue: one of the most charming streets in Orlando, located in Winter Park, a suburb of Orlando. Park Avenue is known for its fine dining, boutiques and art galleries.
Colonial Drive: one of Orlando's main shopping streets, offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants and services.
church street: a historic street that is home to many bars, restaurants and live entertainment venues. It is one of the liveliest areas in downtown Orlando.
These are just some of the main streets in Orlando that you should visit during your trip. Each offers a unique experience, and all are a reflection of the diversity and vitality of the city.
Orlando's best restaurants
Orlando is a renowned culinary destination, with many excellent restaurants offering a variety of international and regional cuisine.
Below is a list of some of the best:
Victoria & Albert's:
this is Orlando's most upscale restaurant, located at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. It offers an unforgettable dining experience with a seven-course tasting menu, elegant surroundings and impeccable service.
The Ravenous Pig:
This restaurant in Winter Park, a suburb of Orlando, is famous for its contemporary American cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The menu is seasonal and features local produce, including fresh seafood and high-quality meats.
Christini's Ristorante Italiano:
this is an upscale Italian restaurant offering authentic dishes such as homemade pastas, seafood and meats, as well as an excellent wine list. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, perfect for a special night out.
Bull & Bear Steakhouse:
located in the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, this is one of the best steakhouse restaurants in Orlando, with high quality meats, unique cuts and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Morimoto Asia:
this is an elegant and modern Asian restaurant located in Disney Springs. The menu features traditional Asian dishes, including sushi and seafood, with a contemporary twist.
Chef's Table at the Edgewater:
this is an elegant and intimate restaurant located in Winter Garden, a suburb of Orlando. The menu changes daily and features fresh, seasonal ingredients, with vegetarian and vegan options.
These are just some of the best restaurants in Orlando, but the city offers many other options for all tastes and budgets. Be sure to try some of these places for a unique Orlando dining experience.
Enjoy and also read:
Planning our trip to Disney – Orlando
Tips on Orlando and its parks – Florida