Area Guide
Vacation Capital Of The World
Orlando is a non stop adventure that never fails to amaze, there's an incredible mix of things to do,
from the magic of Walt Disney World Resort to the hair raising coasters of Universal Orlando Resort.
So come and experience an Orlando vacation for yourself and don't miss out on the adventure.
Whether it’s a trip for families, couples, single travelers or a group of friends, Orlando is the perfect destination that ensures an unforgettable vacation filled with unique experiences for every visitor.
Orlando is of course theme park capital of the world, and we know that thrill seekers come here to experience our incredible theme parks, water parks and attractions that make for great memories,
but you know what? There’s even more for you to discover and enjoy.
Oh and don't forget to eat and when it's time for food, Orlando certainly won’t leave you hungry,
not with more than 5,000 restaurants featuring celebrity chefs, local favorites, and food for every palate and price point.
And, when the sun goes down, we’re also home to sizzling nightlife and entertainment, including vibrant dance clubs, craft breweries, dinner shows and more.
Oh and while the thrill seekers can enjoy the theme parks, shoppers will be in shopping heaven with world class shopping including high end malls, outlet shopping and more!
Of course and you can head to the great outdoors for unbeatable ecotourism adventures and one of a kind opportunities to watch and play sports, including golfers who will love more than 150 golf courses.
Art lovers will enjoy the Orlando Museum of Art, as well as a number of museums, galleries and art studios sprinkled throughout the region.
With millions of visitors staying in Orlando every week, it's no surprise that Orlando is known for hospitality, and that extends to its many hotels, spas and services that suit every budget and taste.
Adults will appreciate accommodations offerering fine dining, luxurious spas and serene rooftop pools.
For an incredible view of the city from a glass capsule, visit the 400-foot ICON Orlando observation wheel on International Drive, which is also near several great shops, restaurants, bars and galleries.
Do you love the great outdoors? Orlando has several parks and lakes that are great for relaxing, exercise and adventure.
Rent a paddleboard or paddleboat, soar over the city in a hot air balloon, picnic under an old oak, spot dolphins on a boating day trip, swim with manatees and pet a sloth at the Exotic Animal Experience.
There are several watersports centers if you’re looking to try waterskiing or jet skiing or for an even bigger thrill, try parasailing or sky diving.
There’s really no limit to the many adventures and exciting times that await you in Orlando, a city that’s inspired by dreams and wonder.
Where To Stay In Orlando
For anyone heading to Orlando on vacation for the first time, choosing where to stay is the first thing that springs to mind, and it can be a little daunting.
The main tourist areas of International Drive, Kissimmee and Lake Buena Vista are all great places to stay, as are the hotels and resorts at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, but how do to know which place is right for you?
The good news is there really is no bad choices, it's really easy to get around, and all the theme parks, attractions and more are never too far away!
International Drive
International Drive or ‘I-Drive’ as us locals call it, is best described as Orlando’s ‘Vegas Strip’.
There are hundreds of hotels, restaurants, shops, amusment parks and attractions, all lined up beside each other for eleven miles of non stop fun.
Oh and don't forget International Drive is home to not one but two of our world famous theme parks, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando.
The ‘I-Ride’ bus service is excellent and runs the full length of I-Drive, so there is no need for a car to explore all that International Drive has to offer. Many hotels that are located in this area also offer shuttle services to the main theme parks.
Moving onto accommodation, and there are many outstanding hotels, motels and resorts to choose from the most luxurious of resorts to value motels, and it's important to remember that for most of the time, your not in the hotel, you are out having fun!
This makes International Drive an ideal location to base yourself on your Orlando vacation
Lake Buena Visa
If your planning on spending most of your time at the Walt Disney World Resort, then Lake Buena Vista is the perfect place to stay on your Orlando vacation, and after a long day at the theme parks you will appreciate the short drive back to your hotel.
Accommodation here is plentiful with an impressive choice of hotels and resorts to suit everyone.
Lake Buena Vista has quick and easy access to Walt Disney World and all it's magical theme parks and attractions via an entrance on Hotel Plaza Blvd.
Plus, Lake Buena Vista is only a few short minutes away from Disney Springs and it's endless choice of shopping, entertainement and dining.
The majority of the hotels and resorts are found along S Apopka Vineland Road and Palm Parkway,
and you will definetly need a car to get around.
There is an endless choice of restaurants offering all kinds of food from Chinese, American, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Mexican and many others.
The area is home to not one but two outlet malls, the Premium Outlet Mall, Vineland Road and the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores.
Disney Springs Resort Area
The Disney Springs Resort Area is actually located in Lake Buena Vista, all within Walt Disney World.
The collection of seven hotels and resorts here are outstanding, with all locations on Hotel Plaza Blvd which leads directly to all the theme parks and attractions within the Walt Disney World Resort.
All locations are independent of Disney but the beauty of staying here, apart from being so close to the magic,
is that you can enjoy extra yime in all Disney Theme Parks plus Disney Fastpass+ service with 60 day advance booking at all Disney Theme Parks
Each resort is an Official Walt Disney World Hotel and within walking distance of the finest shopping, dining and entertainment at Disney Springs.
Guests at any of the hotels can also enjoy 63 holes of championship golf and complimentary shuttles
to all Walt Disney World theme parks and water parks.
Walt Disney World Resort
Stay at the heart of the magic when you book your accommodation at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Not only will you have convenient and easy access to all the theme prks and water parks,
you can also enjoy a variety of amazing amenities and extras too.
Resort benefits include complimentary airport transportation, early access to FastPass+ planning (up to 60 days before arrival), additional time at the theme parks, optional Disney dining plans
plus worry free resort transportation and parking.
Accommodations range from value resorts to moderate resorts to deluxe resorts and villa resorts.
Kissimme
Kissimmee is located only minutes from Disney and is a popular base for a vacation to Central Florida.
The area's popularity is in part due to its concentration of rental villas, with many located only 10 minutes from Walt Disney World.
Kissimmee is spread over a wide area with the Highway 192 acting as a useful benchmark for visitors and the 'Mile Markers' assisting tourists in navigating there way around, but you will need a car!
Most of the hotel chains have property located on the 192, which are usually very competitively priced.
Restaurants are a plenty in Kissimmee ranging from traditional American buffets to Italian or Chinese.
You will discover lots of shopping with flea markets, gift shops, strip malls and lots more, plus the area features many attractions including mini golf, airboat rides, amusement parks and go karts.
Universal Orlando Resort
If you plan on spending a lot of your vacation time in Universal's theme parks it might be a good idea to stay in a Universal Orlando Resort hotel.
All of the Universal Orlando hotels have exclusive theme park benefits for staying on property.
One of the biggest perks is getting early theme park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and select attractions at Volcano Bay water park one hour before the busy crowds arrive.
In addition, Universal hotel guests get free transportation to the parks, complimentary merchandise delivery of purchases back to your hotel, club to club access at Universal Citywalk, character appearances and more.
Of course, the Universal hotels place you in the heart of the action, with all the hotels in close proximity to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk.
Orlando Area Map
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get a list of events in Florida?
Check out our event page
What are the average monthly temps in Orlando?
Check out the temperatures on our weather page
When is the busy season in Orlando?
Orlando is so popular that it is busy no matter when you decide to visit, although it's busiest during the holidays and throughout the summer months.
Should I reserve my hotel rooms in advance?
You should always reserve a room for at least the first two or three nights.
Which beaches are closest to Orlando?
Daytona, New Smyrna Beach and Cocoa Beach are all about an hour east of Orlando on the Atlantic, with Clearwater Beach the closest Gulf coast beach, about two hours west of Orlando.
When are school vacations in Florida?
There are no set school vacation periods in the U.S. Some summer school vacations begin in the middle of May and end in the middle of August while others begin June and end September.
When is Spring Break?
Spring Break vacation times vary school to school. Some start as early as late February however March through April are the months when most Spring Breaks occur.
What do I need to know about Florida’s wildlife?
Florida is home to a wide variety of the most amazing wildlife in the world, alligators, crocodiles, sharks, snakes, bears and other wildlife are all prevalent.
When is hurricane season?
The Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 to Nov 30, the peak of the season is from mid Aug to mid Oct.
How can I travel within Florida?
One of the most efficient ways to travel is by car.
Do international travellers have to apply for an international driving permit?
You don't need an international driving permit to drive in Florida, you just need a valid driver's licence issued in your name, from your state of residence.
How can I travel from the airport to area hotels?
Transportation options includes car rentals, local bus service, shuttle service and taxis.
What are the requirements for a car child seat?
All children 5 years old or younger must use a restraint device when riding in a motor vehicle.
What should I do if my car breaks down?
Turn on the car’s hazard lights, which will flash to alert other drivers and police that you need help.
Dial FHP on Florida interstates and highways in an emergency to reach the Florida Highway Patrol.
Be aware that Florida has a Move Over Law.
This means that if there is a car stopped on the side of the road with a police car behind it, you must either slow down to 20 mph or get over.
What should I do if I’m stopped by the police?
If you are pulled over by the police for a traffic violation, you will be issued a ticket. Do not offer to pay the fine directly to the office this could be construed as bribery.
What should I do in a medical emergency?
Dial 9-1-1 for an ambulance. The call is free. This number is also used to contact the police or fire.
