Where is Orlando?
Orlando is located in Central Florida and is one of the state’s larger inland cities. It is home to the University of Central Florida, and the city’s nickname is The City Beautiful.
Known as the theme park capital of the world, the many entertainment destinations located in the city draw visitors from all over the world. It is estimated that more than 75 million people visited Orlando in 2018 to enjoy the tourist attractions.
How to get to Orlando?
Orlando is serviced by the Orlando International Airport, one of the busiest in the country. Nearby Orlando Sanford Airport is another option when arriving by air.
The major highway is Interstate 4 which starts in Tampa and travels across the state, through Orlando and terminating in Daytona Beach on the east coast. There are several expressways, but Orlando is unique in that it only has one major interstate.
This means driving to and from Orlando may be challenging due to traffic and time constraints. There is also a commuter rail system and Amtrak passenger rail service, which makes it easy to get around the city.
When is the best time to visit Orlando?
The weather in Orlando is quite temperate, making it enjoyable to visit year-round. However, summer humidity and autumn hurricanes mean that March to May is ideal. During this time the temperature is pleasant, ranging from the high 50s to 80s, while prices are more reasonable.
What to do in Orlando?
Many people travel to Orlando to visit the theme parks in the area, making this a great tourist destination for families. Those who aren’t interested in the wild rides can head to Downtown Orlando to explore its shopping, restaurants, galleries, museums, and parks.
There are also many animal and nature-themed activities to enjoy in Orlando. There are many farmers’ markets, gardens, and festivals to enjoy. Orlando is also known for space shuttle launches at the Kennedy Space Center just one hour from the city in Cape Canaveral.
While Florida is known for beaches, Orlando is not on the coast and does not have any beaches in the city. However, Daytona Beach is about 1 hour away, and Tampa is slightly further at 1.5 hours.
Tip – Check out 6 Destinations Teens Will Love.
Is Orlando family-friendly?
Orlando is one of the most family-friendly cities in the United States. Many families choose to visit the city at least once to take their children to Walt Disney World. This sprawling adventure park is home to the original theme park, Magic Kingdom, along with EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios.
Another popular draw is Universal Studios and their Islands of Adventure theme park which has seven different areas, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal’s Volcano Bay is a water park complete with a volcano, palm trees, waterfalls, and water slides.
Sea World draws visitors to swim with the dolphins at Discovery Cove or visit the water park, Aquatica. Legoland offers not only fair rides for younger children but also a water park, roller coasters, and huge Lego models.
The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens features a butterfly garden, aerial adventures, animal encounters with a rhinoceros, giraffe feeding, a train and carousel, face paintings, and farm animals. Gatorland is all about alligators and crocodiles but also features wild cats, birds, and tortoises. You can zip line over the water, watch a show, or have a close encounter with some of the animals.
Another animal park, Jungle Adventures, lets you cruise down a river teeming with reptiles, watch alligators be fed, and have hands-on experiences with incredible animals. ICON Park features The Wheel, a Ferris wheel 400 feet high, and is also home to many restaurants, shops, and other attractions including Madame Tussaud’s, an arcade, and a train.
Tip – Check out our Best Theme Parks in the World and 8 Biggest Amusement Parks in the World.
What are the best events for kids in Orlando?
No Events
