Traveler’s Companion: Your Ultimate Orlando Vacation Guide

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Orlando, Florida, is at the top of most people’s bucket lists, as it is home to many fun theme parks, such as Magic Kingdom, Universal Orlando Resort, and Epcot. However, there is more to the city than rollercoaster rides, Disney characters, and movie attractions.

To maximize every minute of your vacation, here is your total Orlando vacation guide to ensure you don’t miss one exciting activity, attraction, or dish:

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Source: Instagram, posted on April 27th, 2022, Universal Orlando’s official profile.

The best things to do

Orlando can offer you various activities that suit all ages. With exceptional theme parks, unmissable entertainment complexes, and unique wildlife preserves, you’re guaranteed to have a fun-filled visit here.

Here are among the best attractions to add to your bucket list.

  • Magic Kingdom
  • ICON Park
  • Universal Orlando Resort
  • Disney Springs
  • Epcot
  • Legoland Florida
  • Gatorland

To make a more informed decision when creating a travel itinerary, check out all these things to do in Orlando.

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Source: Instagram, posted on August 30th, 2021, Visit Orlando’s official profile.

The best time to visit

There is never a wrong time to travel to Orlando on vacation, as it is bathed in Floridian sunshine throughout the year. 

If you want to visit the Sunshine State when it is a little less crowded, plan your vacation between January and April. The off-peak months often experience warm temperatures, little rain, and fewer crowds. The only exception is during spring break.

If some rainfall doesn’t bother you and you have a tight budget, time your getaway between June to early October, as you are more likely to secure a great deal.

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Source: Instagram, posted on May 4th, 2022, Westgate Resorts’ official profile.

The best places to stay

Orlando features thousands of hotel rooms to suit different budgets, group sizes, and vacation requirements. 

If you visit the city to explore its theme parks, browsing the various Disney resorts might be your first instinct. However, they can be a little pricey compared to the many non-Disney hotels in the city. 

If you are traveling with your family, you can guarantee the whole clan will adore a trip to a fun water park hotel, such as Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa. It is the best way to relax after a busy day exploring Animal Kingdom or Epcot, as you can take a dip in many pools or rest your muscles in a soothing hot tub. 

Source: Instagram, posted on April 26th, 2022, Disney Springs’ official profile.

The best places to eat and drink

You might get hungry after an exciting day at Orland and be unsure of where to eat. But fret not, as there is a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, bars, and fast-food options to choose from.

Orlando is packed to the brim with hidden gems worthy of your time and money, but there are some venues you must visit during a vacation. 

International Drive provides locals and visitors with an extensive selection of fantastic restaurants to suit every palate, such as Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, Del Frisco’s Double Edge Steakhouse, and Cuba Libra Restaurant & Rum Bar.

Disney Springs is another must-visit destination for the best dining experiences in Orlando. Top picks include Raglan Pub, Jaleo by José Andrés, Morimoto Asia, and Wolfgang Puck’s Bar & Grill, to name a few superb options.

Here are the dishes you must try during your visit to Orlando:

  • A red velvet milkshake from The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium
  • The Tavern Burger at Marlow’s Tavern
  • Vegan doughnuts from Valhalla Bakery
  • A steak at Charley’s Steak House
  • A Mickey Mouse pretzel at Walt Disney World
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Source: Instagram, posted on April 2nd, 2022, Visit Orlando’s official profile.

The best way to travel around Orlando

Orlando is a large city, and you will likely need to travel to tick every attraction or activity off your bucket list. 

Standard public transport systems are available to help you journey from A to B, but taking the bus could consume a lot of your time.

If you want to explore Orlando easily, a car rental is the best choice. It will allow you to visit every corner of the city conveniently. It is also the best way to travel from and to the airport, theme parks, and attractions.

If you can’t drive or don’t want to, you might be pleased to learn that many resorts provide guests with a complimentary or affordable shuttle service to major theme parks.

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Source: Instagram, posted on April 2nd, 2022, Orlando International Premium Outlets’ official profile.

Source: Instagram, posted on April 2nd, 2022, Orlando International Premium Outlets’ official profile.

The best places to shop

If you have your heart set on shopping until you drop in Orlando, you will be as pleased to learn that there are many malls, boutiques, and markets to choose from on your vacation. You may treat yourself or your loved ones to designer brands at one of two premium outlets on International Drive and Vineland Avenue.

Between the two malls, you can access some of the biggest names in fashion, including Burberry, Nike, Polo, Kate Spade, Banana Republic, Prada, and more. Other shopping malls worth a visit include The Mall at Millenia, the upscale Florida Mall, and Pointe Orlando Shopping Mall (open 365 days a year).

What’s even more exciting is that many of Orlando’s biggest theme parks feature shopping and entertainment venues where you can have fun at various rides and see top-notch attractions.

Of course, you can’t visit Orlando and not stroll around Disney Springs, as it is well-known for its eclectic mix of stores, from beauty chains and souvenir shops to designer options. Those looking for top brands should visit The Town Center, and The Marketplace provides more family-friendly stores that adults and kids will love. However, if you’re looking for something unique, fun, or quirky, explore The Landing to pick the perfect souvenirs for your loved ones.

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Source: Instagram, posted on November 13th, 2021, Walt Disney World’s official profile.

How to avoid unwanted surprises

Now that you know the best places to stay, play, and visit, it is time to learn about the don’ts to avoid in Orlando. For example, many people make the mistake of buying tickets at the gate and get shocked by the price of admission. Protect your finances by visiting the theme parks’ websites to learn more about ticket prices and browse the internet to find discounts or money-saving packages. 

Also, don’t allow sunburn to ruin the trip of a lifetime. It’s advised to apply a high SPF sunblock throughout the day. It will protect your skin from the Florida sunshine’s strong UV rays and help you enjoy every moment of your breakaway.

Final Thoughts

Florida provides endless fun, and no two vacations in the city will ever be the same. There is always a new rollercoaster, restaurant, or attraction to visit, so you should try experiences or venues that grab your attention.

With this guide, you’re guaranteed to return home with many memories from your getaway, from riding exhilarating rollercoasters to dining at unforgettable restaurants with your loved ones.

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