Orlando is one of the most visited destinations in the world. The city delights travelers with its famous theme parks, but it offers much more than just Disney and Universal. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, shopping or good food, there are things to do in Orlando for everyone. In this complete guide, you'll find the best tips for planning your trip, saving money and making the most of each attraction.
Best Times to Visit Orlando
Choosing the right time of year can make all the difference to your trip.
- Low season (January to May and September to November): fewer queues, lower prices and pleasant weather.
- High season (June to August and December): full parks, higher rates, but special events like Halloween and Christmas in the parks.
- Best months to save: February, April, September and November usually have promotions on hotels and tickets.
If you want to enjoy the parks without facing crowds, avoid American holidays like Spring Break (March) and Thanksgiving (November).
How to Get to Orlando
Direct Flights and Connections
Orlando International Airport (MCO) receives direct flights from Brazil, mainly from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasília. For those who cannot find a direct flight, common connections are in Miami, Atlanta and Houston.
Airport to City Transportation
- Uber and Taxis: practical, but can be expensive.
- Shared transfers: intermediate option between comfort and cost-benefit.
- Car rental: recommended for those who want to explore beyond the parks.
Car Rental vs. Public Transportation
- Rent a car: ideal for those who want to visit parks, outlets and neighboring cities.
- Using public transport: cheaper but limited option (Lynx buses and SunRail trains).
- Free transportation from hotels: Many hotels offer free transportation to the parks.
Where to Stay in Orlando
Best Region for Budget Hotels
- International Drive: close to restaurants, outlets and some attractions.
- Kissimmee: more affordable prices and good resort options.
- Lake Buena Vista: strategic area for those visiting Disney.
Disney and Universal Resorts – Are They Worth It?
- Disney and Universal Resorts Benefits: free transportation, early park entry and immersive themed experience.
- It is worth it? If your budget allows, the convenience is worth it. Otherwise, hotels outside the complexes are cheaper and even offer transportation to the parks.
What to Do in Orlando Besides the Parks
Shopping – Best Outlets and Malls
- Orlando International Premium Outlets: discounts on famous brands.
- The Mall at Millenia: luxury shopping mall with brands such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton.
- Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk: themed stores and entertainment options.
Nightlife – Restaurants and Shows
- Disney Springs: options such as Planet Hollywood, Rainforest Café and bars with live music.
- CityWalk Universal: Hard Rock Café, Margaritaville and trendy nightclubs.
- I-Drive 360: Ferris wheel and modern bars.
Museums and Cultural Tours
- Madame Tussauds: wax museum with celebrities and iconic characters.
- Kennedy Space Center: ideal for astronomy and technology fans.
- Orlando Science Center: interactive and fun for all ages.
Water Parks and Outdoor Sports
- Volcano Bay: Universal's water park, with innovative technology.
- Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon: Disney water parks, ideal for families.
- Balloon rides: amazing experience to see Orlando from above.
- Trails and nature: Wekiwa Springs State Park offers hiking and swimming areas.
Theme Park Guide
Disney – What You Need to Know
Magic Kingdom
- Cinderella's Castle, nightly shows and classics like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.
EPCOT
- Technology and culture with country pavilions and the new attraction Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
hollywood studios
- Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Toy Story Land and the thrilling Aerosmith rollercoaster.
animal kingdom
- Pandora – The World of Avatar and the Expedition Everest roller coaster are highlights.
Universal Studios and Island of Adventure
- Universal Studios: Harry Potter, Transformers and Fast and Furious.
- Island of Adventure: Intense roller coasters like Hulk and Velocicoaster, plus Jurassic Park attractions.
Other Parks – SeaWorld, Legoland and Busch Gardens
- SeaWorld: extreme roller coasters and shows with marine animals.
- Legoland: ideal for young children, with interactive attractions.
- Busch Gardens: park in Tampa famous for its extreme roller coasters.
Money Saving Tips – How to Spend Less in Orlando
How to Buy Cheaper Tickets
- Buy in advance from trusted websites.
- Opt for combo tickets for more than one park.
- Avoid buying at the box office, where prices are higher.
Best Value for Money Restaurants
- Inside the parks: quick services such as Casey's Corner (Magic Kingdom) and Three Broomsticks (Universal).
- Outside the parks: Olive Garden, Five Guys and Cheesecake Factory offer good options at fair prices.
- Grocery stores like Walmart and Target sell ready-made snacks and items to save money on meals.
Economical Transportation in the City
- Use free transportation from hotels to the parks.
- The I-Ride Trolley covers the International Drive area for a low price.
- Split the car rental between family or friends to reduce costs.
Itineraries for Different Traveler Profiles
Families with Children
- Theme parks, Legoland, SeaWorld and character dining.
Teenagers and Young Adults
- Extreme roller coasters, virtual reality simulators and CityWalk.
Couples
- Romantic dinner at Disney Springs, hot air balloon rides and resort spas.
Conclusion
Orlando is much more than just theme parks. The city offers incredible experiences for all types of travelers, with leisure, shopping and dining options for all budgets. With planning and good choices, you can enjoy everything without spending more than necessary. Now that you know the best tours in Orlando, just plan your itinerary and enjoy every moment of your trip! 🚀