Orlando, located in Central Florida, is a vibrant and diverse city that attracts millions of visitors each year. Known as the "Theme Park Capital of the World," it is home to world-famous attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. The city also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. With its warm climate, diverse attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, Orlando is a must-visit destination for first-time visitors looking for an unforgettable vacation experience.
Average Cost of Hotels in Orlando
There are 302 hotels in Orlando on Trip.com, including luxury, boutique, and budget hotels. Orlando has high quality and low-priced hotels.
- Five-star hotels in Orlando at an average price of 223 USD per night.
- Four-star hotels in Orlando at an average price of 199 USD per night.
- Three-star hotels in Orlando at an average price of 131 USD per night.
- Two-star hotels in Orlando at an average price of 76 USD per night.
Orlando has many well-known chain hotels which are suitable for both business trips and vacations. Ramada is the top choice of many travelers in Orlando. Four Points by Sheraton Orlando International Drive in Orlando is a favorite among Trip.com users. Many tourists also stay at Quality Inn & Suites.
Must-Visit Attractions for First-Time Visitors
- Walt Disney World Resort:: This is a must-visit for any first-time visitor to Orlando. It's the largest and most visited theme park in the world, offering four separate theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom.
- Universal Orlando Resort: Another major attraction, Universal Orlando Resort features two theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. The resort is also home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is a huge draw for fans of the series.
- SeaWorld Orlando: This marine zoological park offers a combination of thrilling rides, marine animal exhibits, and live shows. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.
- Orlando Science Center: This is a great place for kids and adults alike, offering interactive exhibits on various aspects of science and technology.
- The Orlando Eye: This giant Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the city and its surrounding areas.
- Legoland Florida Resort: This is a fun-filled theme park that offers more than 50 rides, shows, and attractions all themed around the popular LEGO brand.
Transportation in Orlando
Orlando offers a variety of transportation options to suit the needs of residents and visitors alike.
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): This is the busiest airport in Florida and the tenth busiest in the United States. It offers numerous domestic and international flights and is a hub for Silver Airways.
- Amtrak Station (ORL): This is the primary train station in Orlando, offering service on Amtrak's Silver Meteor and Silver Star lines, which provide connections to cities like Miami, New York City, and Washington D.C.
- Public Transportation: The main public transportation system in Orlando is operated by the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority, known as LYNX. LYNX provides bus services throughout the city and its neighboring counties.
- SunRail: SunRail is a commuter rail system that connects Orlando with neighboring cities, such as Sanford, Lake Mary, Longwood, and Kissimmee. The train service operates Monday through Friday and is popular among commuters working in downtown Orlando.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Orlando. These services provide a convenient way to get around the city, especially for those without access to a personal vehicle.
Better to Know Before Visiting Orlando
- Weather: Orlando has a subtropical climate, which means it can be hot and humid, especially in the summer. The city is also prone to afternoon thunderstorms, so it's a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat.
- Theme Parks: Orlando is known for its theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld. These parks can be crowded, especially during peak travel times like summer and holidays.
- Food and Drink: Orlando has a diverse food scene, with everything from high-end restaurants to food trucks. The city is also home to a number of craft breweries.
- Safety: Like any major city, Orlando has areas that are safer than others. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep your belongings secure.
- Tipping: In Orlando, like the rest of the US, tipping is customary. A tip of 15-20% is standard for restaurants, taxis, and other services.
- Time Zone: Orlando is in the Eastern Time Zone, so plan your travel and activities accordingly.
What to Eat in Orlando
- Butterbeer: This sweet, frothy drink is a must-try for Harry Potter fans visiting Universal Orlando Resort.
- Gator Bites: These deep-fried alligator nuggets are a unique Florida delicacy that you won't find in many other places.
- Cuban Sandwich: This classic sandwich is made with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between two slices of Cuban bread.
- Conch Fritters: These deep-fried conch fritters are a delicious taste of the Caribbean and a popular appetizer at many Orlando seafood restaurants.
- BBQ: This popular local chain serves up delicious smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, along with a variety of tasty sides.
- Shrimp and Grits: This Southern classic dish features sautéed shrimp served over creamy grits, topped with bacon and scallions.
Best Time to Visit Orlando
The best time to visit Orlando is from March to May. This is the time when the weather is most pleasant and the tourist crowds are relatively low. Additionally, many of the popular events like the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and Mardi Gras at Universal Studios occur during these months.
Another good time to visit is from September to mid-November. The weather is still warm but not as hot as the summer months, and the summer tourist crowds have left, making the theme parks and other attractions less crowded.
Average seasonal Temperature
• Spring: 68.85°F during the day, 57.79°F at night
• Summer: 82.0°F during the day, 71.35°F at night
• Autumn: 86.86°F during the day, 78.04°F at night
• Winter: 73.99°F during the day, 63.99°F at night
Average seasonal Rainfall
• Spring: 33.98819 cm
• Summer: 54.437008 cm
• Autumn: 82.44095 cm
• Winter: 32.507874 cm
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