10 Best Things to Do in Orlando
Hey there! My name is Emily Johnson, and I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Orlando multiple times. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences and opinions about the 10 best things to do in the city. Let’s dive in!
What Makes Orlando Special?
- Orlando is home to some of the world’s best theme parks
- The city has warm weather almost year-round
- Orlando is a hub for entertainment, dining, and shopping
- There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, like golfing and water sports
1. Visit Walt Disney World Resort
If you’re visiting Orlando, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Walt Disney World Resort. I did this on my first trip to the city, and it led to one of the most magical experiences of my life. From the classic attractions like It’s a Small World to the newer ones like Avatar Flight of Passage, there’s something for everyone in this massive theme park. I prefer starting my day at Magic Kingdom, but be sure to check out the other parks like Epcot and Hollywood Studios too.
2. Explore Universal Orlando Resort
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, you can’t miss Universal Orlando Resort. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-visit for any fan of the franchise. But there’s so much more to explore in this theme park too. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer more laid-back attractions, there’s something for everyone at Universal. Don’t miss the chance to ride the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit rollercoaster!
3. Visit SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is a great place to visit if you’re interested in marine life. I did this on my most recent trip to Orlando, and I loved seeing the dolphins, sea lions, and killer whales up close. The park also has some great rollercoasters and water rides, so you can cool off on a hot day.
4. Check Out ICON Park
ICON Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for entertainment, dining, and shopping all in one place. I love visiting the Orlando StarFlyer, which is the world’s tallest swing ride. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and shops in ICON Park, so it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
5. Visit the Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center is about an hour’s drive from Orlando, but it’s definitely worth the trip. You can learn all about the history of space exploration and see some amazing artifacts up close. I especially enjoyed the Atlantis exhibit, which features a retired space shuttle.
6. Go Golfing
Orlando is home to some of the best golf courses in the country. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s a course for you in the city. I’m not the best golfer, but I had a lot of fun playing at the Grand Cypress Golf Club.
7. Visit Gatorland
Gatorland is a unique attraction in Orlando that’s home to thousands of alligators and crocodiles. You can take a guided tour of the park, watch a gator wrestling show, and even zipline over the gator-filled swamp. It’s definitely a memorable experience!
8. Shop at The Mall at Millenia
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to The Mall at Millenia. This upscale mall has stores like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada, as well as more affordable options like Zara and H&M. I always make sure to stop by the food court too, which has some great options for lunch or a snack.
9. Explore International Drive
International Drive is a popular tourist destination in Orlando that’s home to many attractions, restaurants, and hotels. You can ride the Orlando Eye, which is a 400-foot observation wheel, or visit attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! or Madame Tussauds. There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from, like the Yard House or the Hard Rock Cafe.
10. Enjoy a Day at the Beach
Orlando is only about an hour’s drive from some of Florida’s best beaches. You can head to Cocoa Beach or Daytona Beach for a day of sun, sand, and surf. I prefer Cocoa Beach because it’s less crowded and has some great restaurants and bars nearby.
FAQs
1. What is the best time of year to visit Orlando?
Orlando has warm weather almost year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and April when the temperatures are more comfortable and there’s less rain. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so the parks and attractions will be more crowded.
2. How many days should I spend in Orlando?
It really depends on how many parks and attractions you want to visit. I would recommend spending at least 4-5 days in Orlando to see the major theme parks and some of the other attractions. However, if you’re a big Disney or Universal fan, you could easily spend a week or more in the city.
3. What is the best way to get around Orlando?
The best way to get around Orlando is by car. While there are public transportation options like buses and trains, they can be slow and unreliable. Renting a car is relatively inexpensive, and it will give you the freedom to explore the city on your own schedule.
4. Are there any free things to do in Orlando?
Yes, there are plenty of free things to do in Orlando. You can visit Lake Eola Park, which has a beautiful lake and walking path. You can also check out the Disney Springs shopping and dining district, which has free parking and plenty of entertainment options.
5. Is it worth staying in a hotel on Disney property?
If you’re planning to visit the Disney parks, staying in a hotel on Disney property can be a great option. You’ll have access to extra perks like early park entry and complimentary transportation to the parks. However, keep in mind that these hotels can be more expensive than off-property options.